cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Controlled trials to improve antibiotic utilization: a systematic review of experience, 1984-2004.

Study Objectives. To review the effectiveness of interventions designed to improve antibiotic prescribing patterns in clinical practice and to draw inferences about the most practical methods for optimizing antibiotic utilization in hospital and ambulatory settings. Methods. A literature search using online databases for the years 1975–2004 identified controlled trials of strategies for improving antibiotic utilization. Due to variation in study settings and design, quantitative meta-analysis was not feasible. Therefore, a qualitative literature review was conducted. Results. Forty-one controlled trials met the search criteria. Interventions consisted of education, peer review and feedback, physician participation, rewards and penalties, administrative methods, and combined approaches. Social marketing directed at patients and prescribers was effective in varying contexts, as was implementation of practice guidelines. Authorization systems with structured order entry, formulary restriction, and mandatory consultation were also effective. Peer review and feedback were more effective when combined with dissemination of relevant information or social marketing than when used alone. Conclusions. Several practices were effective in improving antibiotic utilization: social marketing, practice guidelines, authorization systems, and peer review and feedback. Online systems providing clinical information, structured order entry, and decision support may be the most promising approach. Further studies, including economic analyses, are needed to confirm or refute this hypothesis.
Classifying Multigraph Models of Secondary RNA Structure Using Graph-Theoretic Descriptors

The prediction of secondary RNA folds from primary sequences continues to be an important area of research given the significance of RNA molecules in biological processes such as gene regulation. To facilitate this effort, graph models of secondary structure have been developed to quantify and thereby characterize the topological properties of the secondary folds. In this work we utilize a multigraph representation of a secondary RNA structure to examine the ability of the existing graph-theoretic descriptors to classify all possible topologies as either RNA-like or not RNA-like. We use more than one hundred descriptors and several different machine learning approaches, including nearest neighbor algorithms, one-class classifiers, and several clustering techniques. We predict that many more topologies will be identified as those representing RNA secondary structures than currently predicted in the RAG (RNA-As-Graphs) database. The results also suggest which descriptors and which algorithms are more informative in classifying and exploring secondary RNA structures.
Body size predicts degree in ant–plant mutualistic networks

Summary 1The complexity of ecological communities can often hinder understanding their structural features. With the recent application of network theory, the structure of previously neglected mutualistic communities has begun to be elucidated. 2Mutualistic communities have now been shown to follow particular power distributions in their degree, that is, the number of species interactions per species. However, predictive variables of degree and other structures of mutualistic networks remain largely unexplored. 3Here, we show that body size of ants is positively correlated with their degree in mutualistic networks comprised of ant interactions with extrafloral nectar (EFN) bearing plants in the Sonoran Desert. This pattern in body size and the number of plant species with which ants interact occurred among all eight sampled communities, a relationship which was not contingent upon phylogenetic history among ant species. 4These results indicate that further study of body size in ant–plant and other mutualistic networks may yield promising insights into the processes influencing their structure. Moreover, the degree–body size relationship for ant–plant mutualistic communities is consistent with that of predator–prey food webs, possibly suggesting similar underlying processes at work.
Utility of ezetimibe.

The results of the SANDS substudy 2 require careful interpretation. It was a secondary, nonrandomized, observational study of highly selected subjects who required more lipid lowering than what a statin could provide to achieve the LDL cholesterol goal, and the baseline characteristics were different between the subgroups. In addition, the sample size was modest, and the study was underpowered to detect differences among groups. Nevertheless, the results support the concept that ezetimibe may indeed have an antiatherosclerotic effect. The results are also reassuring, because the study paralleled the real-life treatment of patients using successive agents to predefined treatment goals. The evidence to date favors the initial use of statins, titrated as needed to target LDL cholesterol and non-HDL cholesterol goals. Most physicians will choose to add a second agent, such as ezetimibe, if further LDL cholesterol lowering is needed after statin titration. Thus, although this was not a trial of a statin versus a statin plus ezetimibe, it shows that essentially identical CIMT outcomes can be achieved with the 2 treatment strategies to achieve a common lipid goal. It is notable that the standard treatment strategy was associated with the progression of atherosclerosis at 3 years, whereas the aggressive strategy yielded a modest regression, supporting the wider use of the optional Adult Treatment Panel III intensive goals in patients with diabetes. The SANDS substudy comes at an important time, given
Documentation in Systems Development: A Significant Criterion for Project Success

Agile software development methods seem inherently suitable for today’s quick-paced business environment as they shorten the time to develop new systems and typically incur lower development costs compared to the conventional systems development life cycle (SDLC) approach. Software development project failures using conventional SDLC are often attributed to project delays, resulting in budget overruns. On the other hand, a well planned and documented systems development project is more likely to result in a system that meets the expectations of both the intended users and the software engineers. This paper takes another look at conventional SDLC methodology by focusing on an aspect that is often overlooked in systems development practice, namely the significance of good documentation.
Systematic incorporation of efficient fault tolerance in systems of cooperating parallel programs

Cooperating parallel programs are being increasingly used in critical applications that require both high performance and high reliability. A promising technique for simultaneously achieving these objectives is to embed the fault tolerance within the program instead of superimposing it via external mechanisms. We develop one such approach for a group of processes that cooperate via shared data structures. The scheme uses data structures having two or more invariant assertions. When the strong invariant is true, the performance is good. When it is false, the performance may be adversely affected, but it is guaranteed that the system will operate correctly provided the weak invariant is true. The algorithms are designed to ensure that processor failures will never cause the weak invariant to be false and to restore the strong invariant within a finite number of recovery actions. We develop a robust task handling mechanism to support the approach and illustrate it for three common data structures. >
College success skills for engineers

The authors describe a two-semester-hour course, College Success Skills for Engineers, taught in the School of Engineering at Western New England College. The overall objectives of this course are to assist freshman engineering students in developing their academic skills, introduce them to the practice of engineering, and help them become a part of the campus community (have a sense of belonging). The course has two main parts: the first part encompasses academic skills, life management skills, and an introduction to the resources of the college. The second part, referred to as engineering encounters, introduces the student to the practice of engineering. Although the course was offered for the first time in the fall of 1989, the attrition for engineering students entering in the fall of 1989 was 19.5%, which was a significant improvement over the 31.8% for those who entered in 1988. >
The Federal Constitution and the Defects of the Confederation.

While it has frequently been stated that in framing the Constitution of the United States the federal convention of 1787 was engaged in a very practical piece of work, it never seems to have been realized how completely the members of that convention were dependent upon their own experience. With the Declaration of Independence the colonies organized themselves as States, framing and adopting constitutions. In the course of the Revolution, those States united under the Articles of Confederation. When this latter instrument of government proved to be inadequate, a fresh essay was made and our present Constitution was the result. That the Constitution was framed because of defects in the Articles of Confederation is universally accepted, but it does not seem to be recognized that experience had shown certain specific defects to exist, that the convention was called for the purpose of correcting those specific defects, and that the Constitution embodied in itself little more than the remedies for those defects.In order to appreciate this point of view, which it is believed is the true historical interpretation of the action of the federal convention in framing our Constitution, it is necessary to divest oneself of preconceived ideas and prejudices due to modern misinterpretation.
The glucocorticoid paradox of caloric restriction in slowing brain aging.

Glucocorticoids have a bimodal effect on cognition, hippocampal pyramidal neurons and long-term potentiation (LTP). Transient increases in glucocorticoids improve performance at spatial memory tasks and facilitate synaptic efficacy, depending on the context. On the other hand, long-term elevations of glucocorticoids are associated with decreased cognitive performance, attenuated synaptic efficacy and neuronal atrophy. Elevation of glucocorticoids during aging is also associated with mild cognitive impairment and hippocampal atrophy. Caloric restriction (CR), a dietary manipulation which extends life-span in rodents, also increases free plasma corticosterone. Recent data suggests that CR attenuates many brain aging changes and increases resistance of neurons to toxins and injury. Thus, a paradox may be considered: if CR causes chronic elevation of glucocorticoids, and if glucocorticoids can increase the risk of neurodegeneration, how can CR be neuroprotective. We suggest that the neuroprotective effects of CR outweigh the deleterious effects of glucocorticoids. The neuroprotective effects of CR that are discussed here include decreased plasma glucose, attenuated free radical generation, alterations of the vasculature, increased expression of heat shock proteins and neurotrophic factors, and attenuation of age-related glial activation.
Regulatory Roles of CD1d-Restricted NKT Cells in the Induction of Toxic Shock-Like Syndrome in an Animal Model of Fatal Ehrlichiosis

CD1d-restricted NKT cells are key players in host defense against various microbial infections. Using a murine model of fatal ehrlichiosis, we investigated the role of CD1d-restricted NKT cells in induction of toxic shock-like syndrome caused by gram-negative, lipopolysaccharide-lacking, monocytotropic Ehrlichia. Our previous studies showed that intraperitoneal infection of wild-type (WT) mice with virulent Ehrlichia (Ixodes ovatus Ehrlichia [IOE]) results in CD8+ T-cell-mediated fatal toxic shock-like syndrome marked by apoptosis of CD4+ T cells, a weak CD4+ Th1 response, overproduction of tumor necrosis factor alpha and interleukin-10, and severe liver injury. Although CD1d-/- mice succumbed to high-dose IOE infection similar to WT mice, they did not develop signs of toxic shock, as shown by elevated bacterial burdens, low serum levels of tumor necrosis factor, normal serum levels of liver enzymes, and the presence of few apoptotic hepatic cells. An absence of NKT cells restored the percentages and absolute numbers of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and CD11b+ cells in the spleen compared to WT mice and was also associated with decreased expression of Fas on splenic CD4+ lymphocytes and granzyme B in hepatic CD8+ lymphocytes. Furthermore, our data show that NKT cells promote apoptosis of macrophages and up-regulation of the costimulatory molecule CD40 on antigen-presenting cells, including dendritic cells, B cells, and macrophages, which may contribute to the induction of pathogenic T-cell responses. In conclusion, our data suggest that NKT cells mediate Ehrlichia-induced T-cell-mediated toxic shock-like syndrome, most likely via cognate and noncognate interactions with antigen-presenting cells.
Crystallographic characterization of sputter-deposited epitaxial Nb-Cu-Co and Nb-Cu-Permalloy multilayers using electron back-scatter diffraction patterns

Abstract Epitaxial Nb-Cu-Co and Nb-Cu-Permalloy™ (Py) multilayers have been grown on (1120) sapphire substrates by sputter deposition. Electron backscatter diffraction patterns (EBSPs) have been used to characterize individual layers. while atomic force microscopy was used for studying the surface topography. EBSPs have been demonstrated to be a viable technique for characterization of these thin sputtered films. EBSP results have shown that the Nb films grow as high quality epitaxial single crystals with (110)bcc orientations. Cu films grown on the epitaxial Nb display two in-plane epitaxial variants corresponding to two stacking sequences of {111}fcc planes. These Cu variants take up the Nishiyama-Wasserman orientation relationship with the underlying Nb. Subsequent sputtering of Co or Py on the epitaxial Cu films results in the growth of two variants of 111fcc layers. Orientation maps of the Cu, Co and Py films, which illustrate the size and distribution of the growth variants, are presented.
Epigenetic Molecular Recognition: A Biomolecular Modeling Perspective

The abnormal regulation of epigenetic protein families is associated with the onset and progression of various human diseases. However, epigenetic processes remain relatively obscure at the molecular level, thus preventing the rational design of chemical therapeutics. An array of robust computational and modeling approaches can complement experiments to shed light on the complex mechanisms of epigenetic molecular recognition and can guide medicinal chemists in designing selective and potent drug molecules. Herein we present a review of studies focused on epigenetic molecular recognition from a biomolecular modeling viewpoint. Although the known epigenetic targets are numerous, this review focuses on the more limited protein families on which computational modeling has been successfully applied. Therefore, we review three main topics: 1) histone deacetylases, 2) histone demethylases, and 3) histone tail dynamics. A brief review of the biological background and biomedical relevance is presented for each topic, followed by a detailed discussion of the computational studies and their relevance.
Ephemeral sand waves in the hurricane surf zone

Abstract Airborne bathymetric LIDAR observations along the Florida panhandle after Hurricane Dennis (2005) show the first unequivocal observations of surf-zone sand wave trains. These are found in depths of ∼ 5m along the trough of the hurricane bar, where hindcasts show strong longshore currents only during severe storms. The waves extend over tens of kilometers of coast after Dennis but are absent from the same area in four other datasets. Observed wavelength to water depth ratios are comparable to river dunes and tidal sand waves but height to depth ratios are smaller, with the largest wave heights around 0.1 times the water depth. The sand wave generation mechanism is hypothesized to be from wind-and-wave-induced longshore currents, which were hindcast to be large during Dennis, with destruction from water wave orbital velocities.
Conceptual Evaluation of Factors Potentially Affecting Restoration of Habitat Structure within the Channelized Kissimmee River Ecosystem

A critical element of the ongoing effort to restore the ecological integrity of Florida's Kissimmee River ecosystem is the reestablishment of pre-channelization habitat structure and function. Restoration of habitat will form the basis for responses by most biological components of the ecosystem and will provide a key indicator of the success of the restoration effort. This paper evaluates the relative importance of a range of abiotic and biotic habitat parameters in the existing and historic Kissimmee River ecosystem and provides a conceptual framework for predicting expected spatial and temporal responses of river and floodplain habitats to the restoration project. Among the ecological factors and processes that influenced the development, dynamics, and maintenance of river and floodplain habitat structure, hydrology is expected to be of central importance in eliciting restoration responses in the Kissimmee River ecosystem. Based on the assumption that the restoration plan will reestablish historic hydrologic characteristics, predictions are made of expected responses by geomorphic and vegetative components of the Kissimmee River's habitat structure. Recommendations are made regarding key habitat parameters requiring long-term tracking and analysis and utilization of a geographic information system (GIS). A hierarchical habitat classification scheme is provided as a foundation for all components of the restoration evaluation program.
On Creating Efficient Object-relational Views of Scientific Datasets

Scientific datasets are often large and distributed in flat files across several storage nodes. Scientists frequently want to analyze subsets of these datasets. A data source abstraction that provides an object-relational view of data while hiding the details of storage and transport mechanisms and dataset layouts is useful in this regard. In this abstraction, Basic Data Sources (BDS) interpret flat files as a set of records and are the building blocks of the view mechanism. Derived Data Sources (DDS) may be built on top of BDSs and provide more complex objects that serve the scientists? needs. The simplest DDS is one that supports a join based view over BDSs. We investigate issues involving building such DDSs for scientific applications and consider distributed versions of the indexed join and the Grace Hash join algorithms. We construct cost models that capture their performance in a restricted space of dataset and system parameters and compare them analytically and experimentally.
Hardiness, Parenting Stress, and PTSD Symptomatology In U.S. Afghanistan/Iraq Era Veteran Fathers

There has been a call to identify variables that may contribute to positive outcomes in veterans of operations in Iraq and Afghanistan (e.g., Cornum, Matthews, & Seligman, 2011). Hardiness has been identified as a factor that buffers against the development of psychological symptoms in veterans, but has not been studied in relation to parenting. Previous research has demonstrated a link between PTSD symptomatology and parenting problems in male veterans, but has not investigated the role that hardiness may play in predicting parenting stress in this population. The current study assessed the relationships between PTSD symptomology and hardiness as predictors of parenting stress in a sample of 94 fathers who are U.S. Afghanistan/Iraq era veterans. Results indicated that PTSD symptoms, particularly symptoms of dysphoria, and the commitment component of hardiness were significant predictors of fathers’ parenting stress.
Biomimetic Nanostructured Surfaces with Designer Mechanics and Geometry for Broad Applications

A powerful fabrication platform for a wide range of biomimetic, high-aspect-ratio nanostructured surfaces is introduced. The principles of soft lithography are extended into a double-mold replication process, whereby a master topography is mapped onto an elastomeric inverse mold and replicated in arbitrary multiple material and stiffness gradients, and an array of modified geometries. Control of geometry via deformation of the inverse mold and control of stiffness via prepolymer mixing are discussed. New capabilities enabled by our approach include biomimetic actuation/sensor arrays with programmable biases, precisely tunable mechanical and geometric properties for optical or wetting applications, and flexible curved substrates. Indeed, flexibly anchored ciliary high-aspect-ratio nanostructures are now possible, and a proof-of-principle is described.
Net carbon exchange and evapotranspiration in postfire and intact sagebrush communities in the Great Basin

Invasion of non-native annuals across the Intermountain West is causing a widespread transition from perennial sagebrush communities to fire-prone annual herbaceous communities and grasslands. To determine how this invasion affects ecosystem function, carbon and water fluxes were quantified in three, paired sagebrush and adjacent postfire communities in the northern Great Basin using a 1-m3 gas exchange chamber. Most of the plant cover in the postfire communities was invasive species including Bromus tectorum L., Agropyron cristatum (L.) Gaertn and Sisymbrium altissimum L. Instantaneous morning net carbon exchange (NCE) and evapotranspiration (ET) in native shrub plots were greater than either intershrub or postfire plots. Native sagebrush communities were net carbon sinks (mean NCE 0.2–4.3 μmol m−2 s−1) throughout the growing season. The magnitude and seasonal variation of NCE in the postfire communities were controlled by the dominant species and availability of soil moisture. Net C exchange in postfire communities dominated by perennial bunchgrasses was similar to sagebrush. However, communities dominated by annuals (cheatgrass and mustard) had significantly lower NCE than sagebrush and became net sources of carbon to the atmosphere (NCE declined to −0.5 μmol m−2 s−1) with increased severity of the summer drought. Differences in the patterns of ET led to lower surface soil moisture content and increased soil temperatures during summer in the cheatgrass-dominated community compared to the adjacent sagebrush community. Intensive measurements at one site revealed that temporal and spatial patterns of NCE and ET were correlated most closely with changes in leaf area in each community. By altering the patterns of carbon and water exchange, conversion of native sagebrush to postfire invasive communities may disrupt surface-atmosphere exchange and degrade the carbon storage capacity of these systems.
Auxin-Mediated Ribosomal Biogenesis Regulates Vacuolar Trafficking in Arabidopsis

In plants, the mechanisms that regulate the transit of vacuolar soluble proteins containing C-terminal and N-terminal vacuolar sorting determinants (VSDs) to the vacuole are largely unknown. In a screen for Arabidopsis thaliana mutants affected in the trafficking of C-terminal VSD containing proteins, we isolated the ribosomal biogenesis mutant rpl4a characterized by its partial secretion of vacuolar targeted proteins and a plethora of developmental phenotypes derived from its aberrant auxin responses. In this study, we show that ribosomal biogenesis can be directly regulated by auxins and that the exogenous application of auxins to wild-type plants results in vacuolar trafficking defects similar to those observed in rpl4a mutants. We propose that the influence of auxin on ribosomal biogenesis acts as a regulatory mechanism for auxin-mediated developmental processes, and we demonstrate the involvement of this regulatory mechanism in the sorting of vacuolar targeted proteins in Arabidopsis.
A Competency-Based Approach to Public Health Nursing Performance Appraisal

Objectives: To integrate public health nursing (PHN) competencies into a comprehensive performance review instrument for nurses at multiple practice levels in an urban public health department. Design: Based on thorough review of PHN competency literature, the tool evaluates performance for 5 nursing practice classifications (Staff RN, Public Health Nurse, Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nursing Supervisor) in eight PHN domains (assessment, policy development/program planning, evaluation, communication, cultural competency, partnership/collaboration, disease prevention/health promotion, leadership/systems thinking). Sample: Tool was piloted with over 50 nurses from PHN workforce (n4400) of Public Health-Seattle & King County (Washington). Method: Pilot testing includes all components of the performance appraisal system: Public Health Competency Grid, statement of general workplace expectations, Nursing Performance Appraisal Tool, and supporting documents defining performance elements by job classification. Results: Supervisors find the tool easy to use and report that it provides opportunity for real communication between employee and supervisor. Nurses at all practice levels report that it effectively describes/evaluates their practice. Conclusions: This tool is an efficient performance appraisal instrument providing meaningful feedback to nursing employees within a framework of PHN competencies. Adopting such tools in PHN practice can help nurses to better understand their role in population-based public health efforts.
Non-linear noise compensation for robust speech recognition using Gauss-Newton method

In this paper, we present the Gauss-Newton method as a unified approach to optimizing non-linear noise compensation models, such as vector Taylor series (VTS), data-driven parallel model combination (DPMC), and unscented transform (UT). We demonstrate that the commonly used approaches that iteratively approximate the noise parameters in an EM framework are variants of the Gauss-Newton method. Through the formulation of the Gauss-Newton method for estimating noise means and variances, the noise estimation problems are reduced to determining the Jacobians of the noisy speech distributions. For the sampling-based compensations, we present two methods, sample Jacobian average (SJA) and cross-covariance (XCOV), to evaluate the Jacobians. Experiments on the Aurora 2 database verify the efficacy of the Gauss-Newton method to these noise compensation models.
Sister Chromatid Cohesion Role for CDC28-CDK in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

High-fidelity chromosome segregation requires that the sister chromatids produced during S phase also become paired during S phase. Ctf7p (Eco1p) is required to establish sister chromatid pairing specifically during DNA replication. However, Ctf7p also becomes active during G2/M in response to DNA damage. Ctf7p is a phosphoprotein and an in vitro target of Cdc28p cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK), suggesting one possible mechanism for regulating the essential function of Ctf7p. Here, we report a novel synthetic lethal interaction between ctf7 and cdc28. However, neither elevated CDC28 levels nor CDC28 Cak1p-bypass alleles rescue ctf7 cell phenotypes. Moreover, cells expressing Ctf7p mutated at all full- and partial-consensus CDK-phosphorylation sites exhibit robust cell growth. These and other results reveal that Ctf7p regulation is more complicated than previously envisioned and suggest that CDK acts in sister chromatid cohesion parallel to Ctf7p reactions.
The Effects of Tier 2 Literacy Instruction in Sixth Grade: Toward the Development of a Response-To-Intervention Model in Middle School:

The purpose of this quasi-experimental study was to (a) compare Tier 2 evidence-based intensive reading instruction to business-as-usual instruction for sixth graders with and without learning disabilities who were “far below” or “below” basic level in literacy and (b) explore the development of a response-to-intervention model in middle school. The study took place in a large inner-city urban setting, where 100% of students received free or reduced-price lunch and 90% of the students were considered English learners at some point in their school history. Intervention students received intensive small-group instruction for 30 hours across 10 weeks. Credential candidates in special education provided the small-group instruction in the treatment condition. Results on oral reading fluency, less so for Maze reading comprehension measures, indicated greater improvements for treatment students, and students with learning disabilities benefited as much or more than the other struggling sixth graders. Educational...
The Evolution Of Employment-At-Will: Past, Present, And Future Predictions

This article examines the origins and evolution of employment-at-will, investigates judicially created at-will exceptions and statutory limitations today, and suggests that employment-at-will is slowly evolving into a just cause standard. The authors recommend an employment policy that both adheres to the law and promotes an atmosphere of fair employment practices that coincide with American values of fair play.
Meta-analyses of statin trials: clear benefit for primary prevention in the elderly.

Many statin meta-analyses have been published, at least 250 according to my just-completed, informal search of PubMed. The endpoint of interest for many of these is incident cancer of a specific type or site (e.g., melanoma, lung, bladder, esophagus, liver, breast, or prostate), but many other
An Intensive Training Program for Effective Teaching Assistants in Chemistry

We report an intensive graduate teaching assistant (GTA) training program developed at The University of Chicago. The program has been assessed and has been successful in preparing GTAs for effective discussion and laboratory teaching for both general and organic chemistry. We believe that this training program can provide insightful information to benefit other similar GTA training programs in the future.
Examining the influence of TBM-ground interaction on electrical resistivity imaging ahead of the TBM

Abstract Tunnel excavation by means of tunnel boring machines (TBMs) is susceptible to unknown changes ahead of the tunnel face. Geophysics offers a technique called electrical resistivity that can continuously, in real-time, spatially map the formation in front of the TBM. Electrical resistivity has been successfully established for many applications including vadoze zone hydrology, oil/gas location, mineral location and failure detection in geo-structures. Yet it has not been well-established for TBM excavations. This is in part due to the complexity of the TBM tunneling environment and the uncertain influence this environment may have on the success of TBM-integrated-electrical resistivity to predict changes ahead of the tunnel face. One significant uncertainty lies in the interface region that exists around the TBM created during the modification of the virgin formation by a mechanical mixing action of the rotating cutterhead and the injection of additives used to aid in the extraction of the muck and protect the cutting tools from frictional wear. In this study, we investigate the influence of this interface region on TBM-integrated-electrical resistivity for both hard rock and soft ground tunneling conditions through finite element modeling. Regarding the performance of TBM-integrated-electrical resistivity to detect changes ahead of the cutting face, the interface region holds significant influence for both earth pressure balance (EPB) and open mode tunneling conditions. Electrical resistivity for slurry based tunneling is not influenced by the interface region. Simulations suggest that TBM-integrated-electrical resistivity can be sensitive to a formation change that is located up to five diameters in front of the TBM.
Analysis of Voltage Stress on Silicon-steel Sheets of Saturable Reactor for HVDC Converter Valves

Saturable reactor is one of the essential equipments of the DC converter valves.The core silicon-steel sheets will induce high electric field in the process of turning-on and turning-off of the thyristor,which will have a dramatic impact on the voltage stress between the silicon steels-sheets.Based on the quasi-static magnetic field,the calculation formula of withstanding voltage between the silicon steels-sheets is derived,and it is verified by comparing the formula calculation and the simulation result which is obtained by the COMSOL software.The formula proposed in this paper has a guiding significance for the saturable reactor core design.
A method to evaluate differences between student UML class diagrams

Mastering Object Oriented design remains a critical challenge for new programming students. This paper contains a description of a methodology that can be used to judge differences between UML class diagrams for relatively small (3-8 classes) programs. Such comparisons can shed light on improving student design skill if one consistently requires preliminary designs before coding, final designs reflecting the solutions submitted, and then assessment of differences between them. Such methods can also be applied by comparing a student's design to a clean, minimal design that solves the problem. The method includes both coarse and fine grained metrics used to determine differences. The current work contains an assessment of the value of doing the additional work to assess the fine-grained metrics. A case study with a quantitative analysis is presented.
Evolution of digital signal processing based spacecraft computing solutions

The ever-increasing information processing needs and data complexity of space exploration has motivated the constant development of higher speed DSP processor modules. These changes and the need to maximize the science data gathered and returned from satellite instruments has led to the development of a line of space qualified, DSP based spacecraft computers (DSP modules) at Southwest Research Institute. The DSP module family (SC-DSP) established at Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) forms an integral part of SwRI's SC-9, VME based, command and data handling systems. Included in the SC-DSP line are the space proven TMS320C30 based, SC-7 module, several module variants of the RTX2010 processor, and a radiation tolerant version of the Analog Devices 21020 in the newest SC-21020 DSP module. SwRI's newest module (SC-21020) was developed to provide superior data handling functionality, while maintaining support for critical spacecraft control functions. The SC-21020 spacecraft computer utilizes these features coupled with high performance radiation hardened memories and the space proven VME bus. All together, the SC-DSP spacecraft computers have been space proven and used on several NASA and other missions. This paper addresses the evolution of SwRI's family of DSP based spacecraft computers, including the next generation of modules. Emphasis is placed on the advantages, tradeoffs, and applicability of high performance DSP spacecraft computers for space exploration. The performance and roadmap of the entire SC-DSP line is discussed in detail.
Stress and fatigue analyses of an induction hardened component

Stress analysis of an induction hardened shaft subjected to cyclic torsional loading is conducted. Finite difference method is employed with the application of an Armstrong-Frederick type cyclic plasticity model. Predictions of residual stresses and their relaxation agree well with the experimental observations. Fatigue is,. analyzed using the results from the stress analysis. Three critical plane multiaxial criteria are evaluated. Due to the variation of material properties and residual stresses, failures can be initiated at surface and subsurface sites. The shear based fatigue parameters can correlate the experimentally observed fatigue lives as well as the crack initiation locations. It is noted that it is critical to consider the residual stresses and the residual stress relaxation in the fatigue life prediction for the induction hardened shafts.
Critical Points and Minimal Surfaces

When dimension[codomain] = 1, the Jacobian of a single function is just the gradient of the function, and the zeros of the gradient determine the critical points of the function; in this case, the hessian classifies the critical points of a function. When dimension[domain] = 2, the Jacobian determines the first fundamental form of a parametric surface; in this case, the hessian, in vector form, determines the second fundamental form of a surface. The two fundamental forms together determine the Gaussian and mean curvatures of a surface. The analysis of the critical points involves looking at the values of the principal minors of this matrix at the critical points, namely, the determinants of the square submatrices running down the main diagonal in the upper left-hand side of the hessian. This chapter defines the critical points of a function as the points where the gradient is zero. If the hessian is positive definite at a critical point, then the critical point is a local minimum, and if it is negative definite, then the critical point is a local maximum. If a critical point is neither positive nor negative definite, then it is considered to be a saddle point. A minimal surface is one whose mean curvature is zero. The boundary of a two-dimensional piece of a surface is a closed curve. A surface is minimal if it has the least area of any surface with the same boundary.
International Negotiation: Process and Strategies

Negotiation has always been an important alternative to the use of force in managing international disputes. This textbook provides students with the insight and knowledge needed to evaluate how negotiation can produce effective conflict settlement, political change and international policy making. Students are guided through the processes by which actors make decisions, communicate, develop bargaining strategies and explore compatibilities between different positions, while attempting to maximize their own interests. In examining the basic ingredients of negotiation, the book draws together major strands of negotiation theories and illustrates their relevance to particular negotiation contexts. Examples of well-known international conflicts and illustrations of everyday situations lead students to understand how theory is utilized to resolve real-world problems, and how negotiation is applied to diverse world events. The textbook is accompanied by a rich suite of online resources, including lecture notes, case studies, discussion questions and suggestions for further reading.
Teaching digital image processing using its applications to assistive technologies

In this paper, the author presented a new method of teaching the computer science course of digital image processing. The learning is facilitated by building the applications of the concepts to assist various disabilities. The course will also heighten the students' awareness in disabilities.
JOBS Act Spillover Effects in the Syndicated Loan Market

The JOBS Act directly affects access to public equity for emerging growth companies (EGCs) by lowering regulatory requirements to conduct initial public offerings (IPOs). Indirectly, improved access to equity markets may alter how other capital providers engage with EGC firms, which may further accelerate EGC firm growth, regardless of and prior to IPO. Using regression discontinuity, we find syndicated loans to EGCs have lower credit spreads, less collateral, larger revolvers, and greater bank participation. These results suggest the JOBS Act not only has a direct effect via IPO access, but also indirectly enhances EGCs’ access to the syndicated loan market.
Treatment of Syringomyelia Associated with Chiari I Malformation

Chiari malformation is a shorthand designation for a group of alterations in the posterior fossa architecture having the effect of reducing posterior fossa volume, causing descent of the cerebellar tonsils and often of the hindbrain; syringomyelia may be associated with these changes. Treatment today consists of suboccipital decompression, which should be planned in accordance with the particular variant of posterior fossa architecture. Establishment of optimal cerebrospinal fluid flow from the fourth ventricle and creation of a subtonsillar cistern is aided by reduction of the cerebellar tonsils and duraplasty. Repeat operations have been performed, when the original decompression was inadequate, for patients with cerebellar ptosis, pseudomeningocele, and scar formation.
Looking Forward to Reverse Image Search: Measuring the Effectiveness of Reverse Image Searches in Online Help

When performing an internet search for help content, people use one of several possible methods, but user preferences tend toward basic, text-based search queries using common search engines. However, computing and digital device trends show a preponderance of image and multimedia use among most users. This trend reveals a gap in the information design/technical communication discipline for understanding why users are unaware of alternative search methods, and why information design/technical communication is not investigating ways to develop the alternative image search methodology for help content and systems. Specifically, there is a lack of research on the usability and user preferences of image search for online help content. This research will provide an overview of the reverse image search technology, how we can optimize existing and future content to prepare content for its use, and a discussion about why this technology represents the future of user search experience.
Effect of angiotensin system inhibitors on survival in newly diagnosed glioma patients and recurrent glioblastoma patients receiving chemotherapy and/or bevacizumab.

Given prior studies that suggest the use of angiotensin system inhibitors (ASIs) is associated with prolonged overall survival (OS) in glioblastoma (GBM) patients, we evaluated the effect of ASIs in glioma patients receiving chemotherapy and/or bevacizumab (BEV). Using retrospective IRB-approved electronic chart review of newly diagnosed WHO grade 2–4 glioma patients from the Kaiser Permanente Tumor Registry of Northern California, we evaluated the impact of ASIs on OS by Cox proportional hazard model analysis for subgroups who received cytotoxic therapy, cytotoxic therapy with BEV, or BEV alone, as well as those with recurrent GBM (rGBM). Of the 1186 glioma patients who received chemotherapy ASI exposure improved OS (HR 0.82; 95% CI 0.71, 0.93; p = 0.003). When stratified by BEV exposure, a sub-analysis revealed further OS advantage for the BEV group (HR 0.75, 95% CI 0.62, 0.90; p = 0.002). In a second cohort of 181 rGBM patients who received BEV in varying dosages, ASI exposure conferred an OS advantage (HR 0.649; 95% CI 0.46, 0.92; p = 0.016). Moreover, patients with ASI exposure who received low-dose BEV treatment (AUCBEV < 3.6 mg wk/kg) had a significantly longer OS (median = 99 weeks; 95% CI 44.3, 205) than those without ASI (median OS = 55.6 weeks; 95% CI 37.7–73.7; p = 0.032). ASI use is associated with longer OS in glioma patients. Further survival advantage with ASI use was observed in rGBM patients receiving low-dose bevacizumab. These data warrant prospective evaluation of adding ASI to low-dose BEV treatment in GBM patients to improve the outcome of standard therapies.
How Eric Idle Found His Grail: The Journey of Monty Python’s Spamalot from Film to Broadway

Focusing on the adaptation from cult classic film to Broadway hit, Wright explores the history behind Monty Python’s Spamalot and Eric Idle’s role in the creation of both the original movie and the musical. Tracing Spamalot’s roots back to Idle’s youth, the influences from sketches performed by Monty Python, and specific, transposed elements of Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Wright gathers interviews and media coverage surrounding Spamalot into one place, offering an in-depth look into Idle’s process of adaptation with his new team of collaborators. “How Eric Idle Found His Grail: The Journey of Monty Python’s Spamalot from Film to Broadway” concludes with the success and troubles around Spamalot in the decade after its debut.
Anesthesia for Liver Transplantation

Liver transplantation is one of the most challenging cases for an anesthesiologist, even for experienced practitioners accustomed to dealing with the highest levels of acuity. By virtue of being a candidate for transplant, patients are likely to have an advanced degree of hepatic dysfunction, which often complicates all other major organ system functions. A sound understanding of hepatic physiology is necessary to appreciate the deficits encountered in caring for liver disease patients, as optimization and preparedness will often make the difference between life and death. Similarly, the etiology of the hepatic injury must also be considered as it may lend itself to very specific comorbidities, such as cardiomyopathy in the patient with hemochromatosis or emphysema in alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. During transplant surgery, the native liver is mobilized and ultimately separated from the systemic circulation. Any remaining hepatic function will cease until flow is restored to the new donor organ. During that interval, toxins, metabolic by-products, and/or calcium chelators will increase in circulation. The anesthesiologist needs to understand the etiology of the insults associated with each phase of the procedure and take steps to minimize the physiologic derangements. Reperfusion of the new (ischemic) organ may represent a crucial tipping point, as it often provides a destabilizing flood of the remnants of cellular injury. Finally, the anesthesiologist is in the best position to appreciate the early (and satisfying) function of the new graft.
A class of belief structures based on possibility measures

After discussing the basics of belief structures we introduce a new class of belief structures in which we select from among the focal elements using a possibility measure. We refer to this as a maxitive belief structure, MBS. The concepts of belief and plausibility are defined for an MBS, and it is noted how an MBS can be used to model imprecise possibility distributions. We describe various operations with these structures including arithmetic and fusion. We look at the use of the Choquet integral type aggregation for these MBS. Measures other than belief and plausibility were defined for these structures.
Vestibular and oculomotor findings in neurologically-normal, non-concussed children.

Objective: To determine the proportion of non-concussed, neurologically normal children with failures on a vestibular and oculomotor examination for concussion performed in an acute setting.Design:...
Cytokines as Possible Adjuvants to Vaccines in Active Specific Immunotherapy for Renal Cell Carcinoma

Several types of cancer vaccines are being investigated for their use in active specific immunotherapy for cancer patients. These forms of cancer vaccines are listed in Table 1. In renal carcinoma, much of the previous clinical work has been conducted with autologous whole tumor cells [1, 3, 4, 6]. This type of vaccine is prepared by obtaining a sample of the patient’s tumor, such as from the nephrectomy specimen, dissociating the tumor cells, radiating them to leave the tumor cells alive but incapable of viable cell division. The underlying concept of why such cancer vaccines may be successfully used in treatment is centered upon the idea of tumor-associated antigens. It is thought that in the transformation from the normal to the malignant cell, there are many genetic changes which occur, such as translocations or point mutations, and as a consequence of these genetic alterations, new molecular products are produced by the cell. It is thought that the molecules expressed on the cell surface undergo changes such that new epitopes are present, and that these epitopes are capable of inducing an immune response directed at these new antigens, called tumor-associated antigens. It is considered that these tumor-associated antigens are usually very weak immunogens, that is, they produce a minimal immune response. Therefore, the growing tumor within the patient has not produced an effective immune response directed at these antigens.