cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Learning concept drift in nonstationary environments using an ensemble of classifiers based approach

We describe an ensemble of classifiers based approach for incrementally learning from new data drawn from a distribution that changes in time, i.e., data obtained from a nonstationary environment. Specifically, we generate a new classifier using each additional dataset that becomes available from the changing environment. The classifiers are combined by a modified weighted majority voting, where the weights are dynamically updated based on the classifierspsila current and past performances, as well as their age. This mechanism allows the algorithm to track the changing environment by weighting the most recent and relevant classifiers higher. However, it also utilizes old classifiers by assigning them appropriate voting weights should a cyclical environment renders them relevant again. The algorithm learns incrementally, i.e., it does not need access to previously used data. The algorithm is also independent of a specific classifier model, and can be used with any classifier that fits the characteristics of the underlying problem. We describe the algorithm, and compare its performance using several classifier models, and on different environments as a function of time for several values of rate-of-change.
Identification of odor signature chemicals in cocaine using solid-phase microextraction-gas chromatography and detector-dog response to isolated compounds spiked on U.S. paper currency.

Solid-phase microextraction (SPME) combined with gas chromatography (GC) is optimized and applied to the analysis of street-cocaine samples followed by the field-testing of isolated chemicals using certified detector dogs. SPME proves to be a very sensitive and rapid method for isolating odor chemicals from street-cocaine samples. SPME‐GC and activated charcoal strip (ACS)‐SPME‐GC signature profile methods are developed for the detection and quantitation of cocaine-odor chemicals, including the optimization of controllable variables such as fiber chemistry, extraction time, and desorption time. The volatile odor chemicals in representative illicit cocaine samples are identified and quantitated by the ACS‐SPME‐GC signature profile method and direct injection. Field tests with drug detector dogs show methyl benzoate to be the dominant signature odor chemical along with cocaine on U.S. currency at a threshold level of approximately 1‐10 µg when spiked or when 10 ng/s methyl benzoate is diffused from polymer bottles, which is required in order to initiate an alert. No other substance studied initiated consistent responses by the drug dogs. The results indicate that the microgram levels of cocaine that have been reported on circulated U.S. currency are insufficient to signal an alert from law-enforcement trained drug detector dogs.
Adult Education's Mislaid Mission:

Civic discourse has been weakened by the multiple, partial, and opinion-laden views of special interest groups. The contrast between discussion among citizens and the collections of personal opinion promoted in the media is an issue which needs more attention by adult educators than it now receives. A weakening focus on the common good has been replaced by the promotion of personal good. The education of citizens as advanced by the nation's founders has given way to preparing learners to meet the demands of the economic system. Suggestions in accord with future contexts are made to adult educators on how to recover earlier emphases on helping people become active and effective citizens.
The adaptive control system of a MEMS gyroscope with time-varying rotation rate

This paper presents a new adaptive control system to control both axes of a vibrational MEMS gyroscope. Here we suppose the rotation rate of gyro is an unknown time-varying parameter, rather than a constant as in current literature. A recently reported polynomial approximation is used to identify the time-varying rotation rate. A Lyapunov approach is employed to attain both of the control and adaptive laws. The simulation results based on Berkeley's Z-axis gyroscope model verify the controllers.
Early Error Detection and Classification in Data Transfer Scheduling

Data transfer in distributed environment is prone to frequent failures resulting from back-end system level problems, like connectivity failure which is technically untraceable by users.Error messages are not logged efficiently, and sometimes are not relevant/useful from users' point-of-view.Our study explores the possibility of an efficient error detection and reporting system for such environments.Besides, early error detection and error classification have great importance in organizing data placement jobs.It is necessary to have well defined error detection and error reporting methods to increase the usability and serviceability of existing data transfer protocols and data management systems. Prior knowledge about the environment and awareness of the actual reason behind a failure would enable data placement scheduler to make better and accurate decisions.We investigate the applicability of proposed early error detection and error classification techniques to improve arrangement of data placement jobs and to enhance decision making of data placement schedulers.
Phase error and associated cross-polarization effects in cassegrainian-fed microwave antennas

Phase error in the aperture field of a microwave paraboloidal antenna degrades antenna gain in two ways: the asynchronism of partial field contributions arriving at an axial field point reduces the magnitude of the total field there, and the phase error may generate a cross-polarized component of the aperture field that further reduces the axial gain. Because of phase ripples in the field reflected from the subdish, a Cassegrainian-fed antenna may be considerably more susceptible to phase-error effects than conventional focal-point-fed antennas. Consequently, a two-part analysis was conducted to evaluate the importance of these phase-error effects in Cassegrainian systems. The feed-system fields were computed and a best-fit phase center was found. Then the axial gain was computed in terms of the feed-system fields. An expression for the phase-error loss was defined to evaluate the effects of diffractive phase ripple, feed-system misalignment, etc. Numerical analyses were carried out for a wide range of antenna parameters. It was concluded that, for a 19-wavelength subdish and a nearly symmetrical phase and amplitude feed pattern, the loss in axial gain due to diffractive phase error may be only a small fraction of a decibel.
The effects of KN62, a ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II inhibitor, on adrenocortical cell aldosterone production

The effects of KN62 on aldosterone secretion have been studied using an angiotensin II (AII)- and K(+)-responsive human adrenocortical tumor cell line (H295R). Basal aldosterone secretion (measured by RIA) was 0.57 +/- 0.22 pmol/mg protein.h. The physiologicial agonists AII (10 nM) and K+ (14 mM) increased aldosterone secretion by 6.9- and 5.0-fold, respectively. Aldosterone secretion was also stimulated by dibutyryl cyclic AMP (dbcAMP, 1 mM, 10.3-fold over basal). Nifedipine dose-dependently inhibited K(+)- and AII-stimulated aldosterone secretion. In contrast, dbcAMP-stimulated secretion was relatively insensitive to this agent (26.8% inhibition at 1 microM nifedipine). K(+)- and AII-stimulated aldosterone production was also dose-dependently inhibited by KN62, which produced 93.9% and 82.3% inhibition at 10 microM KN62 (both p < 0.01). In order to test the specificity of KN62 in H295R cells, its effects on various other steroidogenic agonists were assessed. KN62 dose-dependently inhibited aldosterone secretion stimulated by dbcAMP, 22-hydroxycholesterol and pregnenolone. In addition, KNO4, a derivative of KN62 which is not a potent inhibitor of CaM Kinase II, exhibited a similar pattern of inhibition. These data confirm the requirement for extracellular Ca2+ in the stimulation of human adrenocortical cell aldosterone secretion by AII and K+. However, the non-specific inhibitory effects of KN62 in H295R cells limit the usefulness of this agent as a tool for investigations of the involvement of CaM kinase II in adrenocortical steroidogenesis.
Stirring Up Suffrage Sentiment: The Formation of the State Woman Suffrage Organizations, 1866–1914

In nearly every state around the turn of the twentieth century, suffragists mobilized in grassroots suffrage organizations to secure the vote for women. While movement researchers have theorized that political opportunities are important in explaining why movements emerge, the results from an examination of the emergence of the state suffrage movements show that the mobilization of various resources along with the way in which pro-suffrage arguments were framed were instrumental in stirring up suffrage sentiment. Political opportunities did little to explain the emergence of the suffrage movements. The article concludes that movement researchers need to consider that historically contingent circumstances may determine which factors bring about movement mobilization.
Behavioural response of bullfrog tadpoles to chemical cues of predation risk are affected by cue age and water source

When confronted by signals of predators presence, many aquatic organisms modify their phenotype (e.g., behaviour or morphology) to reduce their risk of predation. A principal means by which organisms assess predation risk is through chemical cues produced by the predators and/or prey during predation events. Such responses to predation risk can directly affect prey fitness and indirectly affect the fitness of species with which the prey interacts. Accurate assessment of the cue will affect the adaptive nature, and hence evolution, of the phenotypic response. It is therefore, important to understand factors affecting the assessment of chemical cues. Here I examined the effect of the age of chemical cues arising from an invertebrate predator, a larval dragonfly (Anax junius), which was fed bullfrog tadpoles, on the behavioural response (activity level and position) of bullfrog tadpoles. The bullfrog response to chemical cues declined as a function of chemical cue age, indicating the degradation of the chemical cue was on the order of 2–4 days. Further, the decay occurred more rapidly when the chemical cue was placed in pond water rather than well water. These results indicate a limitation of the tadpoles to interpret factors that affect the magnitude of the chemical cue and hence accurately assess predation risk. These findings also have implications for experimental design and the adaptation of phenotypic responses to chemical cues of predation risk.
A new method: perforator-based tissue expansion for a preexpanded free cutaneous perforator flap

Recent advances in concepts of preexpanded free flaps have made it possible to replace larger postburn contracture area. Free anterolateral thigh (ALT) cutaneous perforator flaps are popular due to constant, reliable anatomy and various clinical applications in our department. Combination of preexpansion, perforator-based prefabrication of tissue expansion and a free anterolateral thigh flap is first introduced and developed to resurface the large territory of postburn cervical contracture in a 33-year-old female patient with second to third degree flame burn with a 45% total body surface area (TBSA) involvement. The limited lateral flexion and rotation was noted despite aggressive rehabilitation for 6 months. The 650cm(3) kidney-shaped tissue expander was inserted around the myocutaneous perforator under the fascia via the midlateral thigh incision in first stage. Two months later right lateral neck scar (size=25cm x 13cm) was excised after serial clinic saline injection. The preexpanded free flap (size=29cm x 15cm) combined with z plasty and capsulectomy was harvested and covered in the contracture defect. A flap totally survived. One-staged resurfacing was achieved with immediate postoperative improvement. The hospital stay was 6 days. The donor site was closed primarily. After 6 months follow-up, the functional improvement was assessed as follows: an increase in rotation of 14 degrees (preoperative 74 degrees to postoperative 88 degrees ); and an increase in lateral flexion of 10 degrees (preoperative 30 degrees to postoperative 40 degrees ). The prefabrication of the free cutaneous perforator flap by perforator-based tissue expansion above the muscle has several advantages: (1) it provides accurate and safe expansion without damage of any perforator compared with the blunt dissection; (2) larger territory of free flaps can be used for burn reconstruction; (3) donor site is primarily closed with low tension; (4) it is not a random expanded flap due to direct expansion of specific skin territory around the perforator. The disadvantages are two-staged procedures, complications of tissue expansion (e.g. infection, extrusion), the possibility of compression of pedicles.
Hyperparathyroidism associated with malignant tumors of nonparathyroid origin

Seventy-three cases of hyperparathyroidism associated with malignant tumors of nonparathyroid origin, including 9 previously unpublished cases, are reviewed. Clinical correlation with tumor treatment and recurrence suggests that the tumors elaborate a substance with parathyroid hormone activity. Immunochemical and physicochemical data indicate a close similarity to, or identity with, parathyroid hormone. The hypothesis is advanced that the mechanism of production of a substance with parathyroid hormone activity by nonparathyroid neoplasms is a process of derepression of the coded genetic sequence that specifies synthesis of parathyroid hormone. This hypothesis leads to the predictions that such neoplastic cells are prepared with the protein synthetic machinery to produce the specified polypeptide structure and that the most probable polypeptide sequence for the substance is one identical with parathyroid hormone. An unexplained histologic association of chemical hyperparathyroidism with squamous cell and of hyperadrenocorticism with oat cell carcinoma of the lung is emphasized.
Skipping meals and alcohol consumption: The regulation of energy intake and expenditure among weight loss participants

Research suggests that specific eating patterns (e.g., eating breakfast) may be related to favorable weight status. This investigation examined the relationship between eating patterns (i.e., skipping meals; consuming alcohol) and weight loss treatment outcomes (weight loss, energy intake, energy expenditure, and duration of exercise). Fifty-four overweight or obese adults (BMI> or =27 kg/m(2)) participated in a self-help or therapist-assisted weight loss program. Daily energy intake from breakfast, lunch, dinner, and alcoholic beverages, total daily energy intake, total daily energy expenditure, physical activity, and weekly weight loss were assessed. On days that breakfast or dinner was skipped, or alcoholic beverages were not consumed, less total daily energy was consumed compared to days that breakfast, dinner, or alcoholic beverages were consumed. On days that breakfast or alcohol was consumed, daily energy expenditure (breakfast only) and duration of exercise were higher compared to days that breakfast or alcohol was not consumed. Individuals who skipped dinner or lunch more often had lower energy expenditure and exercise duration than individuals who skipped dinner or lunch less often. Individuals who consumed alcohol more often had high daily energy expenditure than individuals who consumed alcohol less often. Skipping meals or consuming alcoholic beverages was not associated with weekly weight loss. In this investigation, weight loss program participants may have compensated for excess energy intake from alcoholic beverages and meals with greater daily energy expenditure and longer exercise duration.
A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of modafinil for cocaine dependence

Abstract This is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of modafinil treatment for cocaine dependence. Patients ( N = 210) who were actively using cocaine at baseline were randomized to 8 weeks of modafinil (0 mg/day, 200 mg/day, or 400 mg/day) combined with once-weekly cognitive–behavioral therapy. Our primary efficacy measure was cocaine abstinence, based on urine benzoylecgonine (BE) levels, with secondary measures of craving, cocaine withdrawal, retention, and tolerability. We found no significant differences between modafinil and placebo patients on any of these measures. However, there was a significant gender difference in that male patients treated with 400 mg/day tended to be more abstinent than their placebo-treated counterparts ( p = .06). Our negative findings might be explained by gender differences and/or inadequate psychosocial treatment intensity in patients with severe cocaine dependence.
Energy-Aware High Resolution Image Acquisition via Heterogeneous Image Sensors

We present an energy-efficient high resolution image acquisition approach based on a two-tiered system comprising low-cost, low-power, non-actuated, extremely resource-constrained stereo image sensor platforms and more capable but more power-consumptive high resolution imaging platforms with actuation capability. The resource constrained platforms are used to compute 3D object location and subsequently to compute appropriate pan/tilt/zoom settings for the high resolution imaging platforms. The high resolution imaging platforms with actuation capability acquire high resolution images which can be utilized for various recognition purposes. We present a design methodology and system architecture, and evaluate latency and energy tradeoffs in the system. Experimental results show that use of the two-tiered network significantly reduces energy consumption of high resolution image acquisition versus a single-tiered network with minimum loss in detection capability.
Cutting Edge: CTNNBL1 Is Dispensable for Ig Class Switch Recombination

Ig class switch recombination (CSR) and somatic hypermutation require activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID). The search for AID-interaction factors has been a major research effort in the field, as the mechanism of preferential targeting of AID to Ig loci remains elusive. CTNNBL1 is one of the few identified AID-interacting factors and has been shown to affect AID-mediated mutation and gene conversion in chicken DT40 cells. CTNNBL1 was also implicated in mammalian CSR by the fact that an AID mutant that fails to interact with CTNNBL1 also fails to support CSR in AID-deficient mouse B cells. To directly assess the role of CTNNBL1 in CSR, we disrupted the CTNNBL1 gene on both alleles in mouse CH12F3 cells by gene targeting. We found normal levels of CSR in CTNNBL1-deficient cells, indicating that CTNNBL1 is dispensable for CSR.
Adrenal involvement in the biostimulatory effect of bulls

The objective was to evaluate if cortisol concentrations are associated with the resumption of luteal activity in postpartum, primiparous cows exposed to bulls. The hypotheses were that 1) interval from start of exposure to resumption of luteal activity; 2) proportions of cows that resumed luteal function during the exposure period; and 3) cortisol concentrations do not differ among cows exposed or not exposed to bulls (Exp. 1), and cows continuously exposed to bull or steer urine (Exp. 2). In Exp. 1, 28 anovular cows were exposed (BE; n = 13) or not exposed (NE; n = 15) to bulls for 30 d at 58 d after calving. In Exp. 2, 38 anovular cows were fitted with a controlled urine delivery device at 45 d after calving and exposed continuously (24 h/d) to bull (BUE; n = 19) or steer (SUE; n = 19) urine. Length of exposure was ~64 d. Blood samples were collected from each cow on D 0 and every 3 d throughout exposure periods in both experiments and assayed for progesterone. Cortisol was assayed in samples collected on D 0, 8, 16, and 24 in Exp. 1; and, D 0, 19, 38, and 57 in Exp. 2. In Exp. 1, interval from the start of exposure to resumption of luteal activity was shorter (P < 0.05) for BE cows than NE cows, similarly, more (P < 0.05) BE cows than NE cows resumed luteal function during the exposure period. In Exp. 2, there was no difference in intervals from the start of exposure to resumption of luteal activity and proportions of cows that resumed luteal function during the exposure period between BUE and SUE cows. In Exp. 1, there was no difference in cortisol concentrations between BE and NE cows at the start of the experiment (D 0), however, cortisol concentrations were greater (P < 0.05) in BE cows than NE cows on D 9, 18, and 27. In Exp. 2, cortisol concentrations were higher for BUE than SUE cows on D 0 (P < 0.05), thereafter cortisol decreased (P < 0.05) but did not differ between BUE and SUE cows. We conclude that the physical presence of bulls stimulates resumption of luteal activity and is coincident with increased cortisol concentrations, and hypothesize a possible association between adrenal activation and the biostimulatory effect of bulls.
Nontangent, Developed Contour Bulkheads for a Wing-Body Single Stage Launch Vehicle

Dry weights for a SSTO vehicle which incorporates nontangent, developed contour bulkheads are estimated and compared to a baseline vehicle with 1.414 aspect ratio ellipsoidal bulkheads. Weights, volumes and heights of optimized bulkhead designs are computed using a preliminary design bulkhead analysis code. The dry weight of a vehicle which incorporates the optimized bulkheads is predicted using a vehicle weights and sizing code. Two optimization approaches are employed. A structural-level method, where the vehicle''s three major bulkhead regions are optimized separately and then incorporated into a model for computation of the vehcile dry weight, predicts a reduction of 4365 lb (2.2 percent) from the 200,679 lb baseline vehicle dry weight. In the second, vehicle-level approach, the vehicle dry weight is the objective function for the optimization. During the vehicle-level analysis, modified bulkhead designs are first analyzed, then incorprated into the weights model for computation of a dry weight. The optimizer simultaneously manipulates design variables for all three bulkheads to reduce the dry weight. The vehicle-level analysis predicts a dry weight reduction of 5129 lb, a 2.6 percent reduction from the baseline value. These results suggest that nontangent, developed conour bulkheads may provide substantial weight savings for SSTO vehicles.
A New Theory of Taxpayer Standing

Flast v. Cohen, decided by the Supreme Court in 1968, articulated a narrow exception to the general rule that merely being a taxpayer does not provide the necessary standing to challenge an expenditure of government funds alleged to violate the Constitution. Since the time of Flast, the Court has steadily narrowed the exception, retreating from the underlying rationale of the Flast decision—a trend most recently observable in the Court’s decision in Arizona School Tuition Organization v. Winn. This Note proposes a new test for taxpayer standing which aims to preserve the doctrine, while remedying some its ills. Under this Note’s proposed test, taxpayer standing is appropriate when the following three factors are met: (1) the taxpayer’s status as a taxpayer bears a reasonable relationship to the challenged expenditure of government funds in question; (2) it is of practical necessity because the political system is structurally ill-equipped to provide a remedy for those who object to a particular expenditure of government funds alleged to violate the Constitution, or the taxpayer is a member of the class for whom the especial benefit of a constitutional limitation is intended to directly run; and (3) where no other plausible party has standing to challenge the alleged violation, leaving it functionally irremediable.
Equity: The Effects Of Tax Reform On Progressivity Features Of The Tax Structure

The impact of the Tax Reform Act of 1986 (TRA86) on equity is examined using a simulation program and statistical analysis. Specifically, a sample of tax returns was manipulated to calculate taxable income for 1987 and 1988. The results were then compared to determine the degree to which effective and average tax rates changed within discrete income levels. Using both t-test and z statistics, the results confirm the hypothesis that the degree of progressivity has been affected by TRA86. A graphic analysis illustrates this change at various income levels for both the average and effective tax rates. These findings are significant for tax policy decision purposes.
Intraplaque Hemorrhage: Most Dangerous Is the Wound That Bleedeth Inwardly…⁎

Data linking intraplaque hemorrhage with atherosclerosis lesion progression have mainly been derived from pathological studies ([1][1]). In the individuals who had died of sudden cardiac death, the frequency of previous intraplaque hemorrhage (IPH) in the culprit coronary atherosclerotic lesions or
My affair with the JAP

During World War II, the US Army Quartermaster Corps established a Climatic Research Laboratory on the second floor of an old building of the Pacific Mills in Lawrence, MA, on the banks of the Merrimac River. The mission of this organization was to test equipment, particularly clothing, for the use
Is a Beautiful System Dying? A Possible Smithian Take on the Financial Crisis

Adam Smith is not an optimistic describer of a providential order moved by an always-successful invisible hand. I present some of the more pessimistic analysis of Smith, which, unfortunately, seems to be most appropriate to describe and analyze our current affairs. This reading of Smith may provide an explanation for the events started in the fall of 2008. The ‘beautiful system of natural liberty’ that Smith describes is a system that may be achieved only under rare circumstances. Smith recognizes systematic biases in human behaviours, ranging from overestimation of probability of success to almost blind admiration for the rich. He recognizes the dangers of concentrated interests. He recognizes the fundamental role of justice and morality in a well-functioning society, so that laws should serve the general population, not the interest of a few at the expense of the many. Smith makes a few policy recommendations, suggesting that the beautiful system that results from human actions but not human design would be threatened otherwise. Dismissing or failing to recognize its potential weaknesses may lead to its crumbling into ruins.
PTSD and daily co-occurrence of drug and alcohol use among women experiencing intimate partner violence

ABSTRACTObjective: People with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are at high risk for substance use, and PTSD is common among women experiencing intimate partner violence. Considering the effects of both PTSD and substance use, such as poorer treatment outcomes and greater health/behavior problems, women experiencing intimate partner violence are a high-risk, under-researched group. Methods: We utilized a micro-longitudinal study design to assess daily drug and alcohol use over 21 days among 41 women experiencing intimate partner violence recruited from the community. Results: Participants were about 45 years old (M = 45.1, SD = 8.5) and mostly African American (n = 32, 78%). Co-occurrence of drug and alcohol use was reported on 19.0% of days, while drug use alone occurred on 13.4% of days and alcohol use on 12.1%. Fifteen percent of participants met current PTSD criteria, with a mean symptom severity rating of 15.90 (SD = 10.94, range 0 to 47). Women with PTSD, compared to those without, were nearly 1...
Utility of Human Papillomavirus Capsid Protein L1 and p16 in the Assessment and Accurate Classification of Anal Squamous Intraepithelial Lesions

Objectives: Morphologic evaluation of anal dysplasia remains problematic, especially in cases with limited biopsy samples or obscuring inflammation. Studies in cervical neoplasia have shown that human papillomavirus (HPV) L1 capsid production is highest in low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (LSILs) and progressively decreases in high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSILs). The combined utility of HPV L1 and p16 expression in assessing anal squamous intraepithelial lesions (SILs) has never been analyzed and forms the basis of this study. Methods: In total, 145 anal lesions were reviewed and immunohistochemically stained for HPV L1 and p16. p16 expression was recorded as negative, patchy/focal, or diffuse. For analytical purposes, condylomas were evaluated separately from rest of the LSILs. Results: There were 34 (23%) condylomas, 64 (44%) LSILs, and 47 (32%) HSILs. HPV L1 was significantly associated with condylomas (68%) and LSILs (52%) compared with HSILs (9%; P < .0001). Diffuse p16 staining was present only in HSILs ( P < .0001), whereas a patchy/focal p16 staining pattern was observed in both LSILs and condylomas. Conclusions: HPV L1 and diffuse p16 expression is mutually exclusive in most anal SILs and helps separate LSIL and HSIL cases. Application of both HPV L1 and p16 can not only facilitate accurate grading but also contribute to risk assessment in anal neoplasia.
Emergency preparedness of families of children with developmental disabilities: what public health and safety emergency planners need to know.

Objective: To assess the emergency preparedness knowledge, behaviors, and training needs of families of children with developmental disabilities (DD). Design: An online survey. Participants: A sample of 314 self-selecting US parents/guardians of children with DD, aged birth-21 years. Main outcome measures: 1) Preparedness self-assessment; 2) self-report regarding the extent to which families followed 11 specific preparedness action steps derived from publicly available preparedness guides; and 3) parent training and support needs. Results: Although most participants assessed themselves to be somewhat to moderately well prepared, even those who reported being “very well prepared” had taken fewer than half of 11 recommended action steps. Most participants expressed a need for preparedness support; virtually all the respondents felt that training was either important or very important. Conclusions: Children with disabilities are known to be particularly vulnerable to negative disaster impacts. Overall, parents in this study appeared under-prepared to meet family disaster needs, although they recognized its importance. The results suggest opportunities and methods for public health and safety planning, education and outreach to parents of children with DD who would benefit from targeted training such as information and skill building to develop effective family preparedness plans and connections to local emergency management and responders.
Scheduling preventive overtime: A new approach for the automotive industry

Because over $2 billion was spent on overtime at US and Canadian automotive final assembly plants in 1994, identifying ways to reduce overtime can have a significant effect on the cost of producing...
Modeling and Estimation of the Vehicle-Miles Traveled Tax Rate Using Stochastic Differential Equations

The mismatch in demand and supply of the revenue for improving highway infrastructure and maintenance is an area of growing concern. In various studies, it has been found that the existing revenue collection system based on gas/fuel tax is not an appropriate model for highway funding. Some of the main drawbacks of the current system include no effective tax process for vehicles based on alternative fuel, no effective changes to the tax rate due to economic inflation, and more highway expenditure than generated revenue. A revenue model based on vehicle-miles traveled (VMT) has been identified as a potential alternative by various studies. For this new revenue model, it is extremely important to develop the required mathematical framework and estimate an effective VMT tax rate that addresses the current gap between generated and required revenue. The main objective of this paper was to estimate what VMT tax rate should be charged in order to generate the same amount of revenue that is being generated by the gas tax or to generate some specific required revenue. To this purpose, mathematical models for motor gasoline (gas) prices, gas consumption, and VMT based on stochastic differential equations were developed. Parameters for all the developed models then were estimated based on the maximum likelihood principle (maximum likelihood estimation) technique using relevant past data for each variable. The validity of the models was analyzed using the mean square errors which were found to be low. Numerical simulations were performed, and the effective VMT tax rate was estimated. To the best knowledge of authors this is the first attempt to model VMT and the VMT tax rate using stochastic dynamical models hence this is a novel contribution to the field.
Application of XDPS System in Flue Gas Desulphurization System of Coal Power Unit

DCS system is always used in thermal power plant project flue gas desulphurization,The paper takes XINHUA XDPS system which is applied in 300MW coal power unit for instance as example,introduce DCS system configuration、software and hardware configuration,describe and analy the features of SCS,DAS and MCS system,and improve the logic of important device such as temperature protection,bypass damper protection,strengthen safety and stability of control system.
Flow Cytometric Analysis of CD71 Expression as a Simple and Sensitive Tool for Detecting Dyserythropoiesis

Refractory anemia is the most common form of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), and is featured predominantly by dyserythropoiesis. Aberrant CD71 (a transferrin receptor) has been observed in MDS, yet so far there is no standard criterion for quantifying CD71 expression. This study aims to develop a simple and sensitive assay to detect dyserythropoiesis by using CD71/CD235a flow cytometry. Bone marrow aspirates from 33 …
Qualitative detection of a human placental lactogen--binding substance by radioassay.

Serum levels of human placental lactogen (hPL) were measured by radioimmunoassay, and a method was developed for the detection of an hPL-binding substance by radioassay. Three groups of women were investigated: (1) normal adult women who had never been pregnant; (2) women with normal pregnancies; (3) high-risk pregnant women (those demonstrating low levels of hPL). All women who had never been pregnant and most women who had normal hPL levels were found to be negative for the hPL-binding substance, whereas 80% of the women with hPL levels
Sporothrix schenckii isolated from edible black fungus mushrooms

Sporothrix schenckii , a fungus which is pathogenic to humans, was recovered from imported desiccated black fungus mushrooms [ Auricularia polytrichia (Mont.) Sacc.] usually used in preparing Far Eastern cuisine. Identification was based on microscopic and gross morphology, dimorphism at 25 and 37°C and reactivity with fluorescein-labeled antibodies specific for the yeast-cell form of the fungus. This is the first known report of S. schenckii in or on edible mushrooms.
Robocasting: A New Technique for the Freeform Fabrication of Near-Net-Shape Ceramics

(1997). Robocasting: A New Technique for the Freeform Fabrication of Near-Net-Shape Ceramics. Materials Technology: Vol. 12, No. 3-4, pp. 98-100.
The temperature-ballast hypothesis explains carbon export efficiency observations in the Southern Ocean

Carbon export from the Southern Ocean exerts a strong control on the ocean carbon sink, yet recent observations from the region demonstrate poorly understood relationships in which carbon export efficiency is weakly related to temperature. These observations conflict with traditional theory where export efficiency increases in colder waters. A recently proposed ‘temperature-ballast hypothesis’ suggests an explanatory mechanism where the effect of temperature-dependent respiration is masked by variation in particle-ballast as upwelling waters move northward from Antarctica. We use observations and statistical models to test this mechanism and find positive support for the hypothesized temperature-ballast interactions. Best fitting models indicate a significant relation between export efficiency and silica-ballast while simultaneously revealing the expected inverse effect of temperature once ballast is accounted for. These findings reconcile model predictions, metabolic theory, and carbon export observations in the Southern Ocean and have consequences for how the ocean carbon sink responds to climate change.
Synthesis of Variable-Diameter Helical Extension Springs

Helical extension springs store energy and provide resistance to tensile loads that are applied through appropriate spring ends. Typical spring ends include different types of hooks or loops. Both ends of a helical extension spring are attached to other components. When the two components move apart and their distance is increased, the helical extension spring exerts a tensile force between the two components and tries to decrease their distance. There are various applications for helical extension springs that include automobiles, toys, hand tools, agriculture machines, textile machines, and medical devices. The common configuration of helical extension springs uses straight cylindrical shape that has constant coil diameter and pitch. Unlike regular helical extension springs, variable-diameter helical extension springs do not employ constant coil diameter. Their variable coil diameter enables them to produce desired force deformation relationships and reduce stress concentration. The distinctive features of variable-diameter helical extension springs also raise their synthesis challenges. To surmount these challenges, a method is introduced in this paper to model and design variable-diameter helical extension springs. The configuration of a synthesized spring is described by a composite parametric curve. The entire spring is defined by its control parameters. Synthesizing the spring is systematized as optimizing its control parameters. Examples on modeling, analyzing and designing springs are presented in the paper to demonstrate the procedure and verify the effectiveness of the introduced synthesis method.Copyright © 2016 by ASME
Li-rich antiperovskite superionic conductors based on cluster ions

Enjoying great safety, high power, and high energy densities, all-solid-state batteries play a key role in the next generation energy storage devices. However, their development is limited by the lack of solid electrolyte materials that can reach the practically useful conductivities of 10-2 S/cm at room temperature (RT). Here, by exploring a set of lithium-rich antiperovskites composed of cluster ions, we report a lithium superionic conductor, Li3SBF4, that has an estimated 3D RT conductivity of 10-2 S/cm, a low activation energy of 0.210 eV, a giant band gap of 8.5 eV, a small formation energy, a high melting point, and desired mechanical properties. A mixed phase of the material, Li3S(BF4)0.5Cl0.5, with the same simple crystal structure exhibits an RT conductivity as high as 10-1 S/cm and a low activation energy of 0.176 eV. The high ionic conductivity of the crystals is enabled by the thermal-excited vibrational modes of the cluster ions and the large channel size created by mixing the large cluster ion with the small elementary ion.
What Can We Do for Chronic Scrotal Content Pain

Chronic scrotal content pain remains one of the more challenging urological problems to manage. This is a frustrating disorder to diagnose and effectively treat for both the patient and clinician, as no universally accepted treatment guidelines exist. Many patients with this condition end up seeing physicians across many disciplines, further frustrating them. The pathogenesis is not clearly understood, and the treatment ultimately depends on the etiology of the problem. This article reviews the current understanding of chronic scrotal content pain, focusing on the diagnostic work-up and treatment options.
Assessment of the Potential of By-Product Recovery of Thorium to Satisfy Demands of a Future Thorium Fuel Cycle

A long-standing concern about the future implementation of thorium fuel cycles has been the availability of a thorium fuel cycle infrastructure, including thorium mineral recovery. Globally, while ...
Vastu Geometry: Beyond Building Codes

Despite their regional flourishes, Hindu temple designs displayed a remarkable unity of aesthetic purposes. This unified philosophy was codified into a system of rules or canons (a compendium of architectural guidelines) called the Vastushastras. One of the most important of these canons from ancient times to the present day is the Vastu purusha mandala, a collection of rules which attempt to facilitate the translation of theological concepts into architectural form. This law of proportions and rhythmic ordering of elements not only found full expression in temples, but extended to residential and urban planning as well. This paper discusses the principles underlying the Vastu purusha mandala, the application of the Vastu purusha mandala in residential design and city planning; and the implications of the mandalas on the social milieu are also identified. Finally, the current status of the mandala in contemporary Indian architecture and urban design are identified.
Peritoneal dialysis catheter placement, outcomes and complications

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is a commonly used method for renal support in pediatric patients and can be associated with the risk of post-surgical complications. We evaluated method of placement of PD catheters with regard to post-surgical complications. PD catheters placed at two institutions between 2005 and 2017 were reviewed. Complication rates were evaluated based on method of placement, delayed usage, omentectomy, and patient age using Fisher’s exact test, two-sided, with significance set at 0.05. Factors influencing complication were evaluated with multivariate logistic regression and Kaplan–Meier survival analysis. There were 130 patients with 157 catheters placed, ranging in age from 1 day to 23 years. There was no significant difference in complication rate by method of placement or delayed usage. Infants were significantly more likely to experience leakage (21% vs 8%, p 0.036) and hernias (15% vs 5%, p 0.030). Patients that underwent an omentectomy were less likely to require a catheter replacement (7% vs 27%, p 0.004), and the catheters had a significantly higher survival rate (p 0.009). We found that laparoscopic intervention resulted in catheter salvage. Lateral exit sites may be a risk factor for catheter migration in some patients. Omentectomy is associated with longer PD catheter survival. Laparoscopic salvage of dysfunctional catheters may be a valuable adjunct in management.
Curiosity about and susceptibility toward hookah smoking among middle and high school students.

Introduction Hookah smoking has increased among young people. Curiosity and susceptibility may be associated with experimentation or established use. Because tobacco use behaviors are established primarily during adolescence, our objective was to examine factors that may increase the risk of future tobacco product use among youth. Methods We analyzed data from the 2016 National Youth Tobacco Survey, a nationally representative survey of US students. Analyses were restricted to youth who had never smoked a hookah and stratified by their ever having used other tobacco products. The prevalence of hookah curiosity and susceptibility was assessed by sociodemographic characteristics, perceptions of harmfulness and addictiveness of hookahs, and peer use of hookahs. Associations between covariates and curiosity and susceptibility were assessed by using multivariable-adjusted regression. Results Overall, 29.1% of students reported any hookah curiosity or susceptibility. Curiosity was reported by 14.6% of those who never used tobacco products and by 45.9% of those who ever used tobacco products. Hookah susceptibility was reported by 15.6% of never-users and 52.5% of ever-users. Regardless of ever having used other tobacco products, odds of curiosity and susceptibility were higher among students with perceptions of reduced hookah harmfulness and addictiveness and among those who perceived high levels of hookah use among peers. Conclusion Nearly 3 in 10 youth who never smoked a hookah (6.9 million) reported hookah curiosity or susceptibility, and prevalence was highest among those who had ever used other tobacco products. These findings reinforce the importance of educating youth about the dangers of all tobacco products and dispel misperceptions about the harmfulness and addictiveness of hookah smoking. Continued surveillance of youth curiosity, susceptibility, and use of hookahs can inform public health policy and practice.
Impact of social media use on reading levels in third-year student pharmacists.

Abstract Introduction The majority of Americans report using social media, but there is limited research describing impact of social media on academic performance and reading. Our objectives were to describe the association between social media use and reading levels of third-year student pharmacists (P3), describe the association between reading level and pharmacy school admissions data, and assess texts used in the curriculum for readability. Methods This was a prospective, cohort study. Reading level was determined by a standardized test. Social media data were collected via questionnaire. Admissions data were obtained from the admissions office. Readability of texts was assessed using readability software. Results Eighty-nine student pharmacists completed the study. The average reading level was 16.4. Students reported using social media for an average of 126 min daily. Students reported using an average of four social media sites and spending 88 min weekly on extracurricular reading. Negligible linear correlations were found between reading level and time spent on social media (ρ = 0.063), number of sites used (ρ =0.062), and time spent on extracurricular reading (ρ= 0.130). A moderate correlation (ρ = 0.524) was found between reading level and Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT) score. The average readability of guidelines and textbook chapters were 18.1 ± 1.0 and 20.4 ± 0.3, respectively. Conclusions In P3 students, reading level was not associated with social media use. However, PCAT scores were positively associated with reading level. Furthermore, the readability of assigned texts exceeded the average reading level of the students.
Emerging Roles of GLI-Similar Krüppel-like Zinc Finger Transcription Factors in Leukemia and Other Cancers

GLI-similar 1-3 (GLIS1-3), a subfamily of Kruppel-like zinc finger transcription factors, function as key regulators of several biological processes important to oncogenesis, including control of cell proliferation, differentiation, self-renewal, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. This review provides a short overview of the critical roles genetic changes in GLIS1-3 play in the development of several malignancies. This includes intrachromosomal translocations involving GLIS2 and ETO2/CBFA2T3 in the development of pediatric non-Down's syndrome (DS), acute megakaryoblastic leukemia (AMKL), a malignancy with poor prognosis, and an association of interchromosomal translocations between GLIS3, GLIS1, and PAX8, and between GLIS3 and CLPTM1L with hyalinizing trabecular tumors (HTTs) and fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma (FHCC), respectively. Targeting upstream signaling pathways that regulate GLIS signaling may offer new therapeutic strategies in the management of cancer.
Securing Funding: Getting Started

In this chapter I provide insights on grant writing. The chapter is written for junior faculty members who want to become more competitive when preparing proposals for external funding. It is guided by the premise that junior faculty members should find funding opportunities to support the work they want to do. I first address the grant review process and invite readers to think about who their audience is. Then I discuss the grant-writing process, helping readers understand that grants are not journal articles; these are different genres that require different kinds of rhetoric.
A Wirebonding Instrument for Insulated and Coaxial Wires

A tool has been developed that supports a novel microelectronic integration paradigm whereby interconnects between components are directly established by means of microcoax wire bonding. A near-ter...