cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Stochastic Secondary Frequency Control of Islanded Microgrid Under Uncertainties

As the penetration of renewable energy, generally, uncertainties, increase in microgrids, a more dynamic and complex system is emerging that makes the load frequency control (LFC) of islanded microgrids more challenging due to their stochastic dynamic nature. This stochastic nature can create oscillatory frequency response, which eventually leads to deteriorating control function and instability even under primary and traditional secondary controllers. Due to the uncertainties, the measurements and microgrid states are continually perturbed; hence, they cannot be directly utilized for feedback control. Therefore, it is required to utilize an observer-based stochastic feedback control that correctly recognizes these uncertainties and sieves incorrect states, frequency deviation here, and can properly maintain the balance between the energy sources and the demand. This article develops an optimal observer-based secondary control for LFC, framed in two layers that are the stochastic unknown input observer (SUIO) and linear quadratic regulator. The proposed SUIO not only can address the uncertainties, e.g., renewable energy, load, and measurement noise, with efficient control effort but also performs robust against parameter changes of the microgrid. The simulation results confirm the efficacy of this proposed control as compared to the traditional secondary control method.
Human-Centered Design for a Women's Health Screening Tool: Participant Experiences.

Objectives Screening is a priority in primary care and women's health, and increasingly used for intimate partner violence. Integrating such routine screening into primary care screening may be challenging for clinicians. Human-centered design (HCD) is a participatory process emphasizing stakeholder input and is used increasingly in health care. A growing body of literature has examined the science of patient and community engagement in health research, yet few qualitative studies investigate how participants recruited to collaborate in designing screening tools perceive HCD processes. This study examined participants' perceptions of an HCD process used as an engagement tool to inform the development of a women's health screening tool. Methods Qualitative study using data collected from community members and providers and staff recruited through a southern Appalachian medical education center and network of family medicine clinics and in the surrounding community. Using opportunistic and key informant sampling, study participants (some of whom were also intimate partner violence survivors) were part of an earlier HCD process undertaken to redesign a women's health/primary care screening tool and were invited to be interviewed about their perceptions of and experiences in the HCD process. Interviews were conducted using a semistructured guide. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, hand-coded, and analyzed using modified grounded theory. Results All of the participants reported that they valued the opportunity to be part of the HCD process; however, they reported divergent views of the process itself. Some found it easy to engage, whereas others found it confusing or embarrassing. All valued the opportunity to be part of determining the best process for screening, yet concerns were expressed about access to and full participation in the process. Community members reported more concerns; providers and staff reported fewer concerns about their own involvement and participation, although some expressed doubts about community members' full engagement. Conclusions Although a promising option and valuable process, the HCD process was not equally comfortable for or accessible to all participants. Community engagement beyond the clinical team is important for improving practices in health screening and health care, but it must be undertaken thoughtfully.
In-Network Filtering of Distributed Denial-of-Service Traffic with Near-Optimal Rule Selection

A recent trend to mitigate large-scale distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks is in-network filtering, where victims can deploy traffic-filtering rules in networks other than their own. However, given multiple constraints, such as the number of rules a victim can afford to deploy, the set of rules that DDoS defense entities allow a victim to deploy, and the amount of collateral damage to limit, the selection of rules has a large impact on the efficacy of an in-network filtering solution. In this paper, we introduce a new, offer-based operational model for in-network DDoS defense and formulate the NP-hard rule selection problem for this model. We then design an algorithm that overcomes the fundamental limitations of the classical ACO framework and transform it with several key changes to make it applicable to the domain of in-network DDoS defense. Finally, we use a real-world-based Internet routing topology and two real-world DDoS traces, along with one synthetic trace that follows the attack distribution of the recent Mirai DDoS attack, to evaluate the efficacy and runtime of our algorithm against four other rule selection algorithms, and show our algorithm is near-optimal.
The effect of power harrow on the wheat residue cover and residue incorporation into the tilled soil layer

Abstract Preferred alternatives of residue management leave some part of residue on the soil surface and incorporate the remaining part of it into the soil. The ability of some passive tillage implements is not acceptable for residue management. A power harrow which is commonly used in Turkey for reduced tillage, with two different ground driven types of rollers and various operating conditions was used to determine its effect on the distribution of wheat residue cover on the soil surface, the amount of incorporated residue into the soil, soil physical properties and fuel consumption. The experiment was designed with two different blade peripheral speeds (3.09 and 3.44 m s−1), three tractor forward speeds (0.58, 0.92 and 1.26 m s−1) and two different types of ground driven rollers (heavy and light type) as treatments and with three replications. According to the obtained results tractor forward speeds affected fuel consumption, the residue cover and residue incorporation values. Generally, a negative relationship was determined between tractor forward speeds, fuel consumption and residue incorporation. Increasing the blade peripheral speed increased fuel consumption and the residue incorporation rate. However, there was a negative relationship between the blade peripheral speed and the residue cover (p
Teaching wireless networking with limited resources

In recent years, we have developed applications for teaching both wired and wireless networking. These applications have been written for the Cybiko personal digital assistant, an inexpensive alternative to other hardware. Unfortunately, the Cybiko PDA was recently discontinued. As a result, these applications had to be ported to other platforms to remain useful. Instead of porting each application to individual platforms, which would prove to be extremely time consuming because of other API's and networking protocols, we created the Vassar College Messaging Layer. This layer abstracts the Cybiko networking structure and interface, allowing Cybiko applications to be ported to other platforms with minimal code alteration.
Anastomotic leakage after anterior resection for rectal cancer with mesorectal excision: incidence, risk factors, and management.

Abstract We investigated risk factors and prognostic implications of symptomatic anastomotic leakage after anterior resection for rectal cancer, and the influence of a diverting stoma. Our retrospective review of prospective collected data analyzed 475 patients who underwent anterior resection for rectal cancer. Uni- and multivariate analysis was made between anastomotic leakage and patient, tumor, and treatment variables, either for the overall group (n = 475) and in the midlow rectal cancer subgroup (n = 291). Overall rate of symptomatic leakage was 9 per cent (43 of 475) with no related postoperative mortality. At univariate analysis, significant factors for leak were a tumor less than 6 cm from the anal verge (13.7 vs 6.6%; P = 0.011) and intraoperative transfusions (16.9 vs 4.3%; P = 0.001). Similar results were observed in the midlow rectal cancer subgroup. At multivariate analysis, no parameter resulted in being an independent prognostic factor for risk of leakage. In patients with a leakage, a temporary enterostomy considerably reduced the need for reoperation (12.5 vs 77.8%; P < 0.0001) and the risk of a permanent stoma (18.7 vs 28.5%; P = 0.49). The incidence of anastomotic failure increases for lower tumors, whereas it is not influenced by radiotherapy. Defunctioning enterostomy does not influence the leak rate, but it mitigates clinical consequences.
More Than Abstract Justice: The Defense of Marriage Act and the Equal Treatment of Same-Sex Married Couples Under Section 302(a) of the Bankruptcy Code

Section 302(a) of the Bankruptcy Code allows an individual debtor and his or her “spouse” to commence a joint bankruptcy case by filing a single bankruptcy petition. The term spouse is not defined in the Bankruptcy Code; however, since 1996, section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act (“DOMA”) has defined a spouse for purposes of federal law as “a person of the opposite sex who is a husband or a wife.” Although no state permitted same-sex couples to marry when DOMA was adopted in 1996, six states currently permit same-sex couples to marry. A seventh state, California, recognizes the marriages of 18,000 same-sex couples performed during a five month period in 2008. In total, approximately 11% of the United States population now lives in a state where same-sex marriage is a reality under state law. When couples marry, they receive an expansive package of government-sanctioned rights and entitlements that provide them with substantial economic benefits. DOMA blocks same-sex couples from receiving the federal components of this package, creating two classes of married couples who are afforded very different economic treatment under the law. The right to file a joint bankruptcy petition under § 302(a) is one of the many economic benefits provided to married couples by federal law. In 2010 and 2011, bankruptcy courts in New York and California came face to face with the conflict between state and federal definitions of marriage when three married same-sex couples used § 302(a) to file joint bankruptcy petitions. Only one of these cases, In re Balas, 449 B.R. 567 (Bankr. C.D. Cal. 2011), placed the constitutionality of DOMA directly before the court and, in a strongly worded opinion joined by 20 of the 24 judges on the court, Balas holds DOMA unconstitutional as applied to § 302(a). This article contends that Balas was properly decided, that DOMA is, in fact, unconstitutional as applied to § 302(a), and that a married same-sex couple therefore has the right to file a joint petition in bankruptcy. After discussing the history and mechanics of § 302(a), the article examines the current status of same-sex marriage in the United States and describes the constitutional framework that applies when the government seeks to discriminate on the basis of sexual orientation. The final part of the article analyzes the constitutionality of DOMA as applied to § 302(a). I conclude that heightened scrutiny should apply to classifications based on sexual orientation, and that DOMA, as applied to § 302(a), is not rationally related to any legitimate government interest. Accordingly, DOMA violates both equal protection and due process in this context.
Corrigendum: Voltage-controlled enzymes: the new Janus Bifrons

Due to an error, there is an mistake in panel C of the original version of Figure ​Figure1.1. The correct version of Figure ​Figure11 is presented below. The figure legend has been updated to improve readability, but the message remains unaltered. Figure 1 (A) Ci-VSP-C363S sensing currents recorded from Xenopus oocytes using the Cut-Open Voltage-Clamp technique (Taglialatela et al., 1992; Stefani and Bezanilla, 1998). The holding potential (HP) was set to −60 mV, and ON-sensing currents were evoked ...
A Review of “Mao's Great Famine: The History of China's Most Devastating Catastrophe, 1958–1962”

Frank Dikotter's chilling history of the 1958–62 Great Leap Forward, dubbed Mao's Great Famine, greatly expands our knowledge of the human suffering and great cruelty that caused an estimated 45 mi...
Understanding Mass Tort Defendant Incentives for Confidential Settlements: Lessons from Bayer's Cerivastatin Litigation Strategy

Explores mass tort defendant incentives for confidential settlements using Bayer's cerivastatin litgation as a case study.
Slipping Racism into the Mainstream: A Theory of Information Laundering

Many studies in recent years have addressed the notable ways that Internet features such as blogs and search engines have democratized the community of information seekers and providers, however, fewer investigations have addressed the darker element that has emerged from that same democratic sphere. That is, the huge resurgence and transformation of racist communities across cyberspace. This article presents a new theory of information laundering to explain the process by which racial hate speech is becoming legitimized through a borrowed network of online associations. This Internet-specific theory builds upon research of “information-based” racist propaganda to explain how today's search engines, social networks, and political blogs unwittingly enable purveyors of bigotry to infiltrate into mainstream spaces of public discourse.
Towards lignin consolidated bioprocessing: simultaneous lignin depolymerization and product generation by bacteria†

Lignin represents an untapped resource in lignocellulosic biomass, primarily due to its recalcitrance to depolymerization and its intrinsic heterogeneity. In Nature, microorganisms have evolved mechanisms to both depolymerize lignin using extracellular oxidative enzymes and to uptake the aromatic species generated during depolymerization for carbon and energy sources. The ability of microbes to conduct both of these processes simultaneously could enable a Consolidated Bioprocessing concept to be applied to lignin, similar to what is done today with polysaccharide conversion to ethanol via ethanologenic, cellulolytic microbes. To that end, here we examine the ability of 14 bacteria to secrete ligninolytic enzymes, depolymerize lignin, uptake aromatic and other compounds present in a biomass-derived, lignin-enriched stream, and, under nitrogen-limiting conditions, accumulate intracellular carbon storage compounds that can be used as fuel, chemical, or material precursors. In shake flask conditions using a substrate produced during alkaline pretreatment, we demonstrate that up to nearly 30% of the initial lignin can be depolymerized and catabolized by a subset of bacteria. In particular, Amycolatopsis sp., two Pseudomonas putida strains, Acinetobacter ADP1, and Rhodococcus jostii are able to depolymerize high molecular weight lignin species and catabolize a significant portion of the low molecular weight aromatics, thus representing good starting hosts for metabolic engineering. This study also provides a comprehensive set of experimental tools to simultaneously study lignin depolymerization and aromatic catabolism in bacteria, and provides a foundation towards the concept of Lignin Consolidated Bioprocessing, which may eventually be an important route for biological lignin valorization.
Social-cognitive, physiological, and neural mechanisms underlying emotion regulation impairments: understanding anxiety in autism spectrum disorder

Anxiety is one of the most common clinical problems among children, adolescents, and adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), yet we know little about its etiology in the context of ASD. We posit that emotion regulation (ER) impairments are a risk factor for anxiety in ASD. Specifically, we propose that one reason why anxiety disorders are so frequently comorbid with ASD is because ER impairments are ubiquitous to ASD, stemming from socio-cognitive, physiological, and neurological processes related to impaired cognitive control, regulatory processes, and arousal. In this review, we offer a developmental model of how ER impairments may arise in ASD, and when (moderating influences) and how (meditational mechanisms) they result in anxiety.
Specular X-ray reflection for the “in situ” study of electrode surfaces

We wish to report here the results of a study of the state of copper surfaces «in situ» during electrochemical polarization in aqueous solution environments. We demonstrate in this work that valuable information on the formation and reduction of surface films, as well as the density, thickness, and interface roughness of the corrosion layers formed, can be obtained from X-ray reflectivity studies. The information on atomic-scale roughness of buried interfaces cannot be obtained by any other technique
Age-related differential recovery rates of rat striatal D-1 dopamine receptors following irreversible inactivation.

Abstract We report here the effects of age on the steady state levels of [ 3 H]flupentixol-labeled striatal D-1 dopamine receptors and their recovery rates following irreversible blockade in mature (4 months old) and senescent (28 months old) male Fischer 344 rats. Senescent rats exhibited significantly reduced (−22%) B max levels of D-1 dopamine receptors compared with their mature counterparts. In addition, the time course of recovery of D-1 dopamine receptors following irreversible receptor inactivation by a single injection of N-ethoxycarbonyl-2-ethoxy-1,2-dihydroquinoline (EEDQ) was significantly slower in senescent animals. This slower recovery rate was the result of decreases in both receptor production rate and receptor degradation rate constants compared with mature rats. Although EEDQ irreversibly inactivated D-1 dopamine receptors, it was without effect on dopamine uptake sites. A chronic, 21 day reserpine treatment did not significantly alter the B max nor the rate of recovery of D-1 dopamine receptors with respect to values in age-matched non-reserpine-treated rats. These data indicate that both the steady state levels of striatal D-1 dopamine receptors and the ‘turnover’ of these receptors are significantly affected as a consequence of natural aging.
Voltage-dependent current evoked by dopamine and octopamine in Aplysia.

Abstract Octopamine and dopamine evoke a slow voltage-dependent inward current in neurons of Aplysia. The responses are present only at depolarized potentials (−40 mV). They are insensitive to changes in potassium, persist after removal of sodium, are not reduced by low chloride solution, and are blocked by cadmium. Because of the similarities in voltage-dependence, time course and ionic sensitivities, the ionic mechanism of the voltage-dependent responses to octopamine and dopamine are concluded to be the same as that of the voltage-dependent response to serotonin reported previously 13.
Remaining with the Crossing: Social-Political Historical Critique at the Limit in Latin American Thought

AbstractIf the question of the humanity of “the other” may become a question, and not be reinscribed into Western colonizing patterns of thought, then its issuing must concern a limit (always arising beyond Western thought), a delimitation of existence that is risked and put at risk without recourse to the project or operation of that colonizing thought that situates it. Ideas of subjectivity, agency, and power-knowledge potential for progress, as well as rationalist instrumental thought used to recognize those peoples and cultures excluded and oppressed under the Western Modern tradition, must be put into question by the very agents claiming recognition, as well as the epistemic structures that sustain these concepts and the dispositions and subconscious expectations constituted by the colonizing practices of bodies and imaginaries that project the very horizons of one’s existence.
Association between pore water sulfide concentrations and the distribution of mangroves

At Humingbird Cay, Exuma, Bahamas, distributions of bothRhizophora mangle (red mangrove) andAvicennia germinans (black mangrove) are closely correlated with amounts of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in the soil.R. mangle is primarily distributed within large areas of low to moderate H2S concentrations (mean= 40 mg/l). H2S levels underA. germinans are lower (mean = 22 mg/l), but the area immediately beyond their root zone often has extremely high sulfide concentrations (mean= 120 mg/l). These results suggest that past attempts to explain mangrove distribution in terms of monotonic soil gradients, the dispersal characteristics of propagules, and interspecific competition are incomplete, and that it will be necessary to examine the link between soil sulfur chemistry and mangrove distribution more fully.
Subcortical aphasia revisited

Abstract A patient presented with aphasia and isolated subcortical lesions on CT scan. Cerebral angiography demonstrated complete occlusion of the middle cerebral artery with collateral supply to the temporal and parietal cortex. However, xenon-133 blood flow studies indicated that this collateral flow was markedly decreased below normal. The evidence for deep subcortical lesions as a cause of aphasia is critically reviewed.
Cost-effectiveness of Treatment for Hepatitis C in an Urban Cohort Co-infected with HIV

Abstract Purpose Recent clinical trials have evaluated treatment strategies for chronic infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) in patients co-infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Our objective was to use these data to examine the cost-effectiveness of treating HCV in an urban cohort of co-infected patients. Methods A computer-based model, together with available published data, was used to estimate lifetime costs (2004 US dollars), life expectancy, and incremental cost per year of life saved (YLS) associated with 3 treatment strategies: (1) interferon-alfa and ribavirin; (2) pegylated interferon-alfa; and (3) pegylated interferon-alfa and ribavirin. The target population included treatment-eligible patients, based on an actual urban cohort of HIV-HCV co-infected subjects, with a mean age of 44 years, of whom 66% had genotype 1 HCV, 16% had cirrhosis, and 98% had CD4 cell counts >200 cells/mm 3 . Results Pegylated interferon-alfa and ribavirin was consistently more effective and cost-effective than other treatment strategies, particularly in patients with non-genotype 1 HCV. For patients with CD4 counts between 200 and 500 cells/mm 3 , survival benefits ranged from 5 to 11 months, and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios were consistently less than $75,000 per YLS for men and women of both genotypes. Due to better treatment efficacy in non-genotype 1 HCV patients, this group experienced greater life expectancy gains and lower incremental cost-effectiveness ratios. Conclusions Combination therapy with pegylated interferon-alfa and ribavirin for HCV in eligible co-infected patients with stable HIV disease provides substantial life-expectancy benefits and appears to be cost-effective. Overcoming barriers to HCV treatment eligibility among urban co-infected patients remains a critical priority.
Cyclooxygenase-2 and Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor: Pharmacologic Targets for Chemoprevention

Understanding the mechanisms underlying carcinogenesis provides insights that are necessary for the development of therapeutic strategies to prevent cancer. Chemoprevention, the use of drugs or natural substances to inhibit carcinogenesis, is a rapidly evolving aspect of cancer research. Evidence is presented that cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) are potential pharmacologic targets to prevent cancer. In this paper, we review key data implicating a causal relationship between COX-2, EGFR, and carcinogenesis and possible mechanisms of action. We discuss evidence of crosstalk between COX-2 and EGFR in order to strengthen the rationale for combination chemoprevention, and review plans for a clinical trial that will evaluate the concept of combination chemoprevention targeting COX-2 and EGFR.
Vascular Supply of the Tendon of the Equine Deep Digital Flexor Muscle Within the Digital Sheath

Abstract The vascular and microvascular anatomy of the equine deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT) within the digital sheath was studied by injecting the vasculature with either colored latex or barium sulphate for radiographic, microangiographic, histologic, and computed tomographic (CT) evaluation. Consecutive 4-mm thick two-dimensional CT slice data were reconstructed to 3-dimensional volumetric images to enhance spatial evaluation of the blood supply. Gross dissection and angiographic studies identified three major vascular sources. Above the fetlock, the DDFT was supplied by either a branch of the medial palmar artery (Arteriae digitalis palmaris communis II) or a branch of the medial palmar digital artery (A. digitalis [palmaris propria III] medialis). Below the fetlock, the DDFT was supplied by branches from the lateral and medial palmar branches to the proximal phalanx (Ramus palmaris phalangis proximalis). The most distal aspect of the tendon received small branches from the medial and lateral palmar digital arteries. Using histology and microangigraphy we observed an extensive and uniform intratendinous vascular network above and below the fetlock, with a relatively avascular region of tendon palmar to the fetlock. The most distal 2.0 to 2.5 cm of the tendon within the sheath was heavily infiltrated with fibrocartilage along its dorsal aspect.
Drug dosing during intermittent hemodialysis and continuous renal replacement therapy : special considerations in pediatric patients.

Chronic renal failure is, fortunately, an unusual occurrence in children; however, many children with various underlying illnesses develop acute renal failure, and transiently require renal replacement therapy — peritoneal dialysis, intermittent hemodialysis (IHD), or continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT). As children with acute and chronic renal failure often have multiple comorbid conditions requiring drug therapy, generalists, intensivists, nephrologists, and pharmacists need to be aware of the issues surrounding the management of drug therapy in pediatric patients undergoing renal replacement therapy. This article summarizes the pharmacokinetics and dosing of many drugs commonly prescribed for pediatric patients, and focuses on the management of drug therapy in pediatric patients undergoing IHD and CRRT in the intensive care unit setting. Peritoneal dialysis is not considered in this review. Finally, a summary table with recommended initial dosages for drugs commonly encountered in pediatric patients requiring IHD or CRRT is presented.
Assessing the Importance and Relationships of Ratings on User-Generated Traveler Reviews

The growth of Internet travel sites has increased the importance of the traveler reviews provided on those sites. These reviews play an important role in travelers' hotel selection. Expedia allows travelers to rate hotels not only on overall satisfaction, but also on four important aspects of their hotel stay (Hotel Service, Hotel Condition, Room Cleanliness, and Room Comfort), and their willingness to recommend the hotel to other travelers. This study looked at over 60,000 traveler ratings. The majority of all four quality ratings and overall satisfaction rating were positive. Additionally, nearly 75% of responses indicated willingness to recommend the hotel. All four quality ratings were found to have similarly strong associations with travelers' overall rating and willingness to recommend. Partial correlations differed, with hotel service and room comfort being highest, followed by hotel condition then room cleanliness.
Mechanosensory activity of hair organs on the chelae of Homarus americanus

Abstract 1. 1. The sensory capabilities of cuticular hair organs on the chelae of Homarus americanus were investigated. 2. 2. Type I organs responded tonically to displacement of the hair. 3. 3. Type II organs responded phasically to displacement of the hair. 4. 4. Activity not produced by Types I or II organs was elicited by vibration, suggesting that Type III or IV organs or both, are mechanosensitive. 5. 5. No responses were obtained to various chemical stimuli, nor to light onset or offset. 6. 6. We conclude that Types I and II and possibly Types III and IV, organs are mechanoreceptors employed in various behavioral contexts.
Resistance oscillations in a Josephson-junction array in a magnetic field.

An interpretation is proposed of the oscillations in the lower envelope of resistance as a function of magnetic field in the Josephson-junction array of Voss and Webb. We show that these variations can be explained by the presence of two incommensurate fundamental areas and of randomness in the array.
The effects of ion gun beam voltage on the electrical characteristics of NbCN/PbBi edge junctions

The authors have succeeded in fabricating high-quality submicron NbCN edge junctions using a technique which is commonly used to make Nb edge junctions. A modified commercial ion gun was used to cut an edge in SiO/sub 2//NbCN films partially covered with photoresist. An insulating barrier was then formed on the exposed edge by reactive ion beam oxidation, and a counterelectrode of PbBi was deposited. The electrical quality of the resulting junctions was found to be strongly influenced by the ion beam acceleration voltages used to cut the edge and to oxidize it. For low ion beam voltages, the junction quality parameter was as high as V/sub m/=55 mV (measured at 3 mV), but higher ion beam voltages yielded strikingly poorer quality junctions. In light of the small coherence length of NbN ( xi approximately=3 nm), the dependence of the electrical characteristics on ion beam voltage is presumably due to mechanical damage of the NbCN surface. In contrast, for similar ion beam voltages, no such dependence was found for Nb( xi approximately=30 nm) edge junctions. >
Synthesis in engineering design

Abstract This paper describes the complex activities involved in engineering design. Next it reviews the chemical engineering literature on synthesis, looking particularly heat flows in processes. It concludes by looking at some illustrative design synthesis literature in electrical, mechanical and civil engineering.
Attitudes of caregivers and the day care experiences of families

Abstract These two studies attempted to determine (1) whether negative evaluations of parents by day care staff should be viewed as a problem in the relationship between caregivers and families and (2) whether children experience day care differently as a function of staff attitudes about the caregiving abilities of their parents. Study I involved two groups of mothers whose childrearing abilities were held in either high or low esteem by the day care staff. Data were gathered using a six-part structured interview that focused on six areas hypothesized to differentiate the two groups; Study 2 focused on whether the children of the two groups of mothers had different experiences in the day care center. Observations of the children's behavior and its context were made in the center. Results of the study revealed that, while the subjective impressions of day care were similar for mothers regardless of caregiver evaluation of them, the objective reality of day care for mothers—as represented by demographic characteristics, conformity to center rules and procedures, childrearing values and beliefs, and communication with center staff—was different. For children, the day care experience appeared to be related more to maternal characteristics than to caregiver attitudes toward the parent.
A Theoretical and Experimental Investigation of Contact Loss in the Clearances of a Four-Bar Mechanism

The dynamic behavior of a four-bar mechanism with a clearance at any one of its connections is described using a quasi-static model. Prediction of separation at the joints is based on the deviation of the model at these positions from the zero-clearance values. Corresponding experimental studies have verified the theoretical results satisfactorily. Furthermore, the present model was applied successfully to similar cases published earlier. The existing criteria on the prediction of contact loss are discussed and a new criterion is offered.
Examining Effects of Advertising Campaign Publicity in a Field Study

ABSTRACT Previous experimental research found that the pre-exposure of publicity about advertisements has two distinct but related effects in advertised brand recall: (a) a facilitative effect on publicized brands and (b) an inhibitive effect on nonpublicized brands. We speculate that publicity effects exist beyond the controlled experiments. In this article, we used a field study to investigate the effects of publicity messages related to the commercials aired during three Super Bowl games. We found that publicity had a positive impact on the memory of subsequent advertisements for both recall and recognition, but publicity effects were more evident in recall than in recognition.
The transport and fate of particulate hydrocarbons in an urban fjord-like estuary

Abstract Hydrocarbon concentrations were measured on suspended particulates and on surficial marine sediments in the urban fjord-like estuary of Puget Sound, Washington. These data were combined with sediment deposition rates, suspended particulate concentrations and circulation data to assess hydrocarbon distributions and fates. Evaluation of major sinks for petroleum hydrocarbons (UCM) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) in an urban estuary indicates that > 90% of the hydrocarbons which are associated with suspended particulates in the main basin of Puget Sound are deposited in the estuarine sediments. Approximately 63% of the PAH and 100% of the UCM associated with particles in the main basin settle directly to the sediments. The remainder is carried to the main basin sediments via horizontal transport from other areas. Trends in PAH ratios are used to identify major sources of PAH. Estimated sources of PAH are balanced by the estimated sinks.
A convenient route to functionalized mixed acetals via oxymercuration-demercuration

Abstract Mixed acetals of olefinic and acetylenic alcohols and β-carbonyl and other substituted aldehydes are readily obtained by acetoxy-mercuration followed by demercuration utilizing NaBH 4 or Na 2 CS 3 .
Topotactic Thermal Oxidation of Sn Nanowires: Intermediate Suboxides and Core-Shell Metastable Structures

An easily generalizable method is reported for converting metal nanowires topotactically to their stoichiometric oxides. Because many such metal oxides are the active semiconductor elements in sens...
Time-resolved, stress-induced, and anisotropic phase transformation of a piezoelectric polymer

We investigate the time-dependent and anisotropic phase transformation of poly (vinylidene difluoride) (PVDF) under bending. Using combined techniques of an atomic force microscope and a Fourier transform infrared spectroscope, observation of surface morphology and phase transformation in time was made. Results showed that bending stress induces the transformation of amorphous, α,β, and γ crystalline phases. Specifically, the amorphous phase was transformed into the β phase when the bending force was applied. In addition, the transformation observed was time and direction dependent. The anisotropic behavior observed brings insights into the origin of the piezoelectricity of PVDF.
DEVELOPMENT AND USE OF A LABORATORY SAUSAGE STUFFING APPARATUS

An efficient, small-batch sausage stuffer has been designed for laboratory use. This stuffer can be used to stuff relatively large series of experimental sausage emulsions with little loss of time or material. It has been observed in actual operation of the stuffer that a normal 1.15 kg batch of emulsion was completely used except < 25g which remained in the stuffer horn. With a little experience, a good uniform stuffing of the casings can be obtained.
The development of implicit learning from infancy to adulthood: item frequencies, relations, and cognitive flexibility.

The majority of cognitive processes show measurable change over the lifespan. However, some argue that implicit learning from environmental structure is development invariant [e.g., Muelemans et al. [1998] Experimental Child Psychology, 69, 199–221; Reber [1993] Implicit learning and tacit knowledge: An essay on the cognitive unconscious. Oxford University Press], while others have shown that adults learn faster than children [Thomas et al. [2004] Journal of Cognitive Neuroscience, 16, 1339–1351]. In two experiments, we tested infants through adults using the same saccade latency measure and behavioral learning paradigm. We examined implicit learning when subjects are presented with interleaved regularities acting on one item, as well as the ability to adjust behavior when learned information is violated. In one comparison, the first- (item frequencies) and second- (spatiotemporal item relations) order statistics are in conflict, allowing us to examine flexibility in learning from multiple parameters. Data from Experiment 1 (N = 90, 6- to 30-year olds) showed no developmental differences in either implicit learning from environmental regularity or flexibility of learning from conflicting parameters across our age range. Accuracy data showed that children are especially sensitive to low frequency relative to high frequency items. In Experiment 2, we showed that 7- to 11-month-old infants had a saccade latency profile that was consistent with task structure, that is, they simultaneously learned both item frequencies and spatiotemporal relations, as indicated by data patterns similar to those obtained in Experiment 1. Taken together, these data provide support for developmental invariance in implicit learning from environmental regularities. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals,Inc. Dev Psychobiol 54: 664–673, 2012.
Should we irradiate a brain tumor in a patient with parkinsonism? A case report and literature review.

Abstract Purpose Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder; the safety and effects of radiation therapy on PD are not well established. We report a patient with PD and a brain tumor referred for radiation therapy and review the literature on this topic focusing on the incidence of cancer and brain tumors in PD, brain tumors and radiation therapy as independent causes of PD, and the safety and effect of radiation therapy, including functional radiosurgery, in patients with PD. Methods and materials A PubMed literature review focusing on all English language publications from 1940 to 2014 identified 146 relevant articles, of which 91 discussed functional radiosurgery for PD, 49 discussed "neoplastic parkinsonism," 4 discussed radiation-induced parkinsonism, and 2 discussed the safety of fractionated radiation therapy in patients with PD. Results Odds ratios of 0.4 to 0.88 have been reported for the development of cancer in general among patients with PD, whereas the incidence ratios of PD patients developing a brain tumor relative to the general population range from 0.9 to 1.61. Parkinsonian symptoms thought to arise as a sequelae of tumor growth have been described in 49 papers dating to 1953. We identified 4 reports of parkinsonian syndromes that arose after radiation therapy, comprising a total of 7 patients, including 5 adults and 2 pediatric patients. Pediatric patients showed a mixed response to dopamine agonist therapy, whereas adults had little symptom improvement. Reports of PD patients irradiated in conventional fractionation for a variety of indications do not appear to indicate increased sensitivity to radiation therapy or exacerbated PD symptoms after irradiation. Radiosurgery performed for management of refractory tremor in PD patients results in up to an 88% favorable outcome, with the onset of symptom improvement ranging from 3 days to 1 year and minimal toxicity (not exceeding the toxicities observed for the same stereotactic radiosurgery procedure performed for essential tremor in nonparkinsonian patients). Conclusions Patients with PD do not harbor an increased risk for the development of cancer in general and have similar incidence of brain tumors as the general population. Tumor-induced parkinsonism is a rare entity. Parkinsonism as a side effect of brain radiation is an uncommon phenomenon, even after high doses, but is associated with limited response to medical management. Rare cases in children, typically associated with bilateral imaging changes, have been described, which suggests possible uncommon genetic predisposition. There are no convincing reports that suggest that pre-existing parkinsonism is worsened by radiation therapy, although a mechanistic possibility for this exists. Functional radiosurgery for management of refractory tremor in PD patients is safe and effective. Radiation therapy, either fractionated or stereotactic radiosurgery, appears to be safe when used judiciously for patients with PD, for the treatment of either tumors or PD itself.
Image conflation and change detection using area ratios

The problem of imagery registration/conflation and change detection requires sophisticated and robust methods to produce better image fusion, target recognition, and tracking. Ideally these methods should be invariant to arbitrary image affine transformations. A new abstract algebraic structural invariant approach with area ratios can be used to identify corresponding features in two images and use them for registration/conflation. Area ratios of specific features do not change when an image is rescaled or skewed by an arbitrary affine transformation. Variations in area ratios can also be used to identify features that have moved and to provide measures of image registration/conflation quality. Under more general transformations, area ratios are not preserved exactly, but in practice can often still be effectively used. The theory of area ratios is described and three examples of registration/conflation and change detection are described.
Synthesis of polyadenylic acid RNA during zoospore differentiation and germination in Blastocladiella emersonii

Abstract Blastocladiella emersonii zoospores and germlings were assayed for the presence of poly(A) RNA by the poly(U) glass-fiber filter binding technique and oligo(dT)-cellulose chromatography. Results from assays of sucrose density gradient fractions show that poly(A) RNA is synthesized de novo during germination of zoospores. In addition, a portion of the performed mRNA in the zoospore has a poly(A) fragment attached to the 3′-terminus. Zoospore poly(A) fragments migrate on polyacrylamide gels slightly faster than the 4S RNA and have an AMP:adenosine ratio of 49:1. During germination some of the performed mRNA is adenylated. Experiments with actinomycin D demonstrated that transcription is not required for polyadenylation of zoospore mRNA. These findings indicate that lack of a poly(A) fragment is not an explanation for the inability of the zoospore messages to participate in protein synthesis.
International donations to the Ebola virus outbreak: too little, too late?

Karen Grepin examines the pledges made to the Ebola crisis, how much has actually reached affected countries, and the lessons to be learnt
The Effect of the Epitendinous Suture on Gliding in a Cadaveric Model of Zone II Flexor Tendon Repair

Purpose We hypothesized that increasing core sutures (4–6) may be preferable in terms of gliding coefficient (GC) measurements when compared with adding an epitendinous suture to zone II flexor tendon repairs. We hypothesized that the inclusion of epitendinous suture in 2 standard repairs would contribute negatively to the GC of the repaired tendon. Methods Nineteen fresh-frozen cadaveric fingers were used for testing. We compared a control group (dissected digits without repair) and 4-strand or 6-strand core tendon repairs with and without epitendinous suture. Arc of motion was driven by direct loading, and digital images were acquired and analyzed. Outcomes were defined as the difference in GC between the native uninjured and the repaired state at each load. A linear mixed-model analysis was performed with comparisons between repairs to evaluate the statistically relevant differences between groups. Results The test of fixed effects in the linear model revealed that repair type and the use of epitendinous suture significantly affected the change in GC. The addition of an epitendinous suture produced a significant decrement in gliding regardless of repair type. Conclusions There was significant improvement in GC with the omission of the epitendinous suture in both repair types (4- or 6-strand). Clinical relevance The epitendinous suture used in this model resulted in poorer gliding of the repair, which may correspond with an expected increase in catching or triggering.
Biological Model of ED01 Hepatocarcinogenesis

The ED01 bioassay on 2-acetylaminofluorene (2-AAF)-induced hepatocarcinogenesis in BALB/c mice was analyzed using a biologically based, two-mutation model of the oncogenic process. Computer simulations indicate that 2-AAF-induced hepatocarcinogenesis has both genotoxic and promotional components. However, contrary to the current paradigm, we find that the genotoxic component of 2-AAF plays a minor role in its carcinogenicity. The ED01 hepatocarcinogenicity can be explained almost entirely to result from the promotional influence of 2-AAF on an existing pool of spontaneously initiated cells.
Perpetual Versus Subscription Licensing Under Quality Uncertainty and Network Externality Effects

We discuss the optimal way for a software vendor to license software: a perpetual license at a posted price, a subscription contract that subscribers receive automatic updates for periodic payment, or a hybrid approach that involves both. By addressing specific issues in the software market such as network effects, quality uncertainty, upgrade compatibility, and the vendor's ability to commit to future prices in a dynamic environment, we demonstrate how a software vendor can manage the trade-offs of perpetual licensing and subscription to optimize profit, as well as the corresponding welfare effect on consumers. Although the subscription model helps the vendor lock in consumers so as to increase profit when there is great uncertainty associated with the next version software, it destroys the path dependence in creating network externalities. Therefore, when the network effect is sufficiently large, it is more profitable for a software vendor to provide both perpetual licensing and subscription.
Quantum dot display enhances activity of a phosphotriesterase trimer

Phosphotriesterase was engineered into a spontaneously forming trimer by appending it to a synthetic collagen-like triple-helix motif. Enzymatic hydrolysis of the insecticide and organophosphate nerve agent simulant paraoxon was then examined. Assembling the phosphotriesterase trimer onto semiconductor quantum dots increased the enzyme's catalytic rate and efficiency.
Portal hypertension-related bleeding: management of difficult cases.

Many advances have occurred in the management of varices over the years. Guidelines based on sound evidence have been developed to manage the esophageal variceal hemorrhage, specifically in the prevention of first variceal hemorrhage, acute variceal hemorrhage, and the prevention of recurrent bleeding. Less is known about how best to manage some of the more difficult cases of bleeding related to portal hypertension. This article reviews evidence in the management of gastric varices, bleeding related to portal hypertensive gastropathy (PHG), ectopic varices, and patients who are intolerant of or have not responded to beta-blocker therapy. Because the literature regarding these issues is sparse, the goal of this article is to review the available evidence and suggest reasonable management options.