cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Day-Ahead Smart Grid Cooperative Distributed Energy Scheduling With Renewable and Storage Integration

Day-ahead scheduling of generation units and storage devices is essential for the economic and efficient operation of a power system. Conventionally, a control center calculates the dispatch schedule by gathering information from all of the devices. However, this centralized control structure makes the system vulnerable to single point of failure and communication failures, and raises privacy concerns. In this paper, a fully distributed algorithm is proposed to find the optimal dispatch schedule for a smart grid with renewable and energy storage integration. The algorithm considers modified dc power flow constraints, branch energy losses, and energy storage charging and discharging efficiencies. In this algorithm, each bus of the system is modeled as an agent. By solely exchanging information with its neighbors, the optimal dispatch schedule of the conventional generators and energy storage can be achieved in an iterative manner. The effectiveness of the algorithm is demonstrated through several representative case studies.
Broken Hearths: Melville's Israel Potter and the Bunker Hill Monument

Abstract When he dedicated Israel Potter to the Bunker Hill Monument, Herman Melville gestured to an eminent national memorial which took so long to build that it appeared to be in ruins before it was finished. Melville's novel addresses the temporal quirks of both patriotic communal commemoration and posthumous personal recognition.
Lanthanide Chemistry: From Coordination in Chemical Complexes Shaping Our Technology to Coordination in Enzymes Shaping Bacterial Metabolism

Lanthanide chemistry has only been extensively studied for the last 2 decades, when it was recognized that these elements have unusual chemical characteristics including fluorescent and potent magnetic properties because of their unique 4f electrons.1,2 Chemists are rapidly and efficiently integrating lanthanides into numerous compounds and materials for sophisticated applications. In fact, lanthanides are often referred to as “the seeds of technology” because they are essential for many technological devices including smartphones, computers, solar cells, batteries, wind turbines, lasers, and optical glasses.3−6 However, the effect of lanthanides on biological systems has been understudied. Although displacement of Ca2+ by lanthanides in tissues and enzymes has long been observed,7 only a few recent studies suggest a biological role for lanthanides based on their stimulatory properties toward some plants and bacteria.8,9 Also, it was not until 2011 that the first biochemical evidence for lanthanides as in...
Effect of epoxy exposure on the electronic properties of graphene

The effect of epoxy exposure and its curing agent (trimethyl-1, 6-hexanediamine), widely used for the biocompatible packaging of graphene-based devices, on the electrical characteristics of a graphene field effect transistor is investigated in this work. Upon 5 min of the epoxy curing agent exposure, the Dirac point shifted from 60 to 13 V, while for 15 min of the epoxy curing agent exposure, the Dirac point changed more than 130 V, from 63 to −68 V, completely changing the doping of graphene from strong p-type to strong n-type due to the electron donating nature of the adsorbed molecules. Additionally, due to exposure, the hole mobility was found to reduce from 1243 to 401 cm2 V−1 s−1, indicating the strong impact of ionized impurity scattering. The temperature-dependent Hall measurement of single layer graphene before and after the epoxy curing agent exposure also exhibited a change in the dominant scattering mechanism from surface optical phonon scattering to Coulomb scattering near room temperature due to epoxy exposure. Reduction of initial p-type doping in chemical vapor deposited (CVD) graphene after epoxy exposure is also confirmed by Raman spectroscopy. We found that the Dirac point recovered very slowly upon storage of the epoxy (or curing agent) exposed devices, changing by only ~11 V after 4 months without significant change in carrier mobility.
Precision energy measurements with the RD52 fiber calorimeter

The RD52 calorimeter measures the electromagnetic fraction of hadron showers in every event through simultaneous detection of the Cerenkov and scintillation light. This makes it possible to eliminate the main factor that prohibits precision energy measurements for hadrons. In Nov. 2012, the RD52 (DREAM) collaboration tested the performance of the new fiber calorimeter for the first time with high energy particles at the CERN SPS. The results presented here concern the performance characteristics for electrons and pions, as well as the identification of electrons in this longitudinally unsegmented calorimeter.
Power-delay-area efficient design of vedic multiplier using adaptable manchester carry chain adder

Multipliers are basic building blocks for many arithmetic logic units, digital signal processors, coding theory units, communication systems, image processing systems etc. So multipliers designed with high speed and power efficient are essential for high performance processing units. The speed of multiplier is limited by propagation delay of adder. Therefore, design of efficient adders is critical in high performance multipliers. Vedic multipliers is one of the fastest multipliers which are focused recently. In this paper, we propose an power-delay efficient design of Vedic multiplier using adaptable Manchester Carry Chain adders (MCC) in a hierarchal approach. The proposed Vedic multiplier design using MCC is evaluated and analyzed in terms of power, delay and area in a standard 45nm CMOS technology in CADENCE. The proposed Vedic multiplier design using MCC has lower power-delay product requirement than existing Vedic multiplier architectures.
Three-Dimensional Data Capture and Visualization

Three-dimensional (3D) digitization of biological specimens overcomes many of the problems of specimen registration attendant when using “standard” two-dimensional views or projections. External surfaces can be digitized directly by hand with electromagnetic, laser-light, sound, servo-mechanism and stereophotogrammetric devices, which are reviewed here. Single-point source laser-light devices are generally the most precise. Data may be captured directly from external or internal surfaces as adjoining tomographic slices (e.g., microscope; CT, and MR not reviewed here). The resulting stack of slices may be used to produce an isosurface image. There are a great many visualization environments available, some of which are briefly described, that facilitate the construction of isosurface images and measurement collection from Three-dimensional images. Three-dimensional models of Three-Dimensional image data are usually “printed” in plastic via a variety of new technologies briefly summarized.
Comparison of experimental three-band IR detection of buried objects and multiphysics simulations

A buried-object detection system composed of a LWIR, a MWIR and a SWIR camera, along with a set of ground and ambient temperature sensors was constructed and tested. The objects were buried in a 1.2x1x0.3 m3 sandbox and surface temperature (using LWIR and MWIR cameras) and reflection (using SWIR camera) were recoded throughout the day. Two objects (aluminum and Teflon) with volume of about 2.5x10-4 m3 , were placed at varying depths during the measurements. Ground temperature sensors buried at three different depths measured the vertical temperature profile within the sandbox, while the weather station recorded the ambient temperature and solar radiation intensity. Images from the three cameras were simultaneously acquired in five-minute intervals throughout many days. An algorithm to postprocess and combine the images was developed in order to maximize the probability of detection by identifying thermal anomalies (temperature contrast) resulting from the presence of the buried object in an otherwise homogeneous medium. A simplified detection metric based on contrast differences was established to allow the evaluation of the image processing method. Finite element simulations were performed, reproducing the experiment conditions and, when possible, incorporated with data coming from actual measurements. Comparisons between experiment and simulation results were performed and the simulation parameters were adjusted until images generated from both methods are matched, aiming at obtaining insights of the buried material properties. Preliminary results show a great potential for detection of shallowburied objects such as land mines and IEDs and possible identification using finite element generated maps fitting measured surface maps.
An evaluation of methods for measuring stress in broiler chickens.

ABSTRACT There are potential advantages for using noninvasive methods instead of conventional approaches for measuring corticosterone (CORT) as a metric of stress. Two studies compared blood heterophil: lymphocyte (H:L) ratios, serum CORT, cecal content CORT (Study 1), colon content CORT (Study 2), and feather CORT concentrations for broiler chicks receiving drinking water with or without added CORT. On day 28, male broilers (N = 140) were provided tap water (Control group) or water containing 20 mg/L of CORT (CORT group) for up to 72 h. Body weight (BW), blood, feather, cecal, and colon content samples were collected from 10 birds from each treatment group at 0, 6, 12, 24, 30, 48, and 72 h. Data were analyzed with a JMP Pro ANOVA. Mean comparisons were analyzed on significant treatment effects using post hoc t-tests to compare control and CORT measures within each sampling time point. Pearson's pairwise correlations for all data were performed. A treatment by time interaction affected all measures in both studies. In both studies, CORT treatment reduced body weight and increased H:L ratios at later time points. In study 1 cecal content CORT concentrations were elevated with CORT treatment after 24 h, whereas in study 2 colon content CORT concentrations were elevated after 6 h. CORT treatment increased body and primary feather CORT and primary feather CORT increased with time in control groups in both studies. Serum CORT exhibited the lowest variability compared with all other sample sources used for determining CORT. Estimates of CORT by different methods were positively correlated. These results indicate that serum CORT concentrations most reliably reflect the CORT status of broilers, and that feather CORT concentrations demonstrated potential for estimating stress in broilers.
Monoacylglycerol Acyltransferase: Stereospecificity and Evidence that the Hepatic and Intestinal Activities are Tissue-Specific Isoenzymes

The transition from fetal to postnatal life is marked by dramatic changes in hepatic carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, as the supply of maternally-provided glucose ceases and the newborn becomes dependent on milk triacylglycerol for its energy and biosynthetic requirements. In perinatal rat liver, the enzyme activities involved in glycogen synthesis, gluconeogenesis, fatty acid oxidation and ketone body formation, rise whereas enzyme activities required for the synthesis of fatty acids decline (1–6).
Taking risks in complex synthesis design

Abstract This chapter defines risk-taking in organic synthesis as the deliberate pursuit of strategies that do not have near neighbors in the chemical literature. In these ventures into the unknown, chemical behavior can be difficult to predict. The literature of organic chemistry is replete with examples of powerful, bond-forming strategies that had little or no precedent when they were developed. This essay addresses some of those examples in an effort to demonstrate the merits of creative risk-taking in the planning and execution of organic syntheses.
Medical Perspective Articles to Stimulate the Field for Needs-Finding

This editorial by the journal's Editor in Chief, Brian Pogue, explains the need for a new type of paper.
Nanofabrication Techniques Used for Superhydrophobic Surfaces

Nanofabrication of Lotus-like superhydrophobic surfaces has been an area of active research since the mid-1990s. Various nanofabrication techniques are used for micro- and nanostructure fabrication which include lithography, etching, deformation, and deposition.
Defect Sensitivity of Truss Strength

Abstract Periodic trusses with missing or defective struts may exhibit reduced strength relative to those of otherwise pristine trusses. The principal goal of the present study is to determine the extent to which individual strut defects and free surfaces, both separately and together, elevate strains in neighboring struts and, in turn, the effects of strain elevations on truss strength, especially in trusses made from elastic-brittle materials. The goals are pursued through finite element analyses of three stretch-dominated truss structures with low relative density under uniaxial compressive loading. In all cases considered, strain elevations due to bulk defects (distant from free surfaces) are comparable to or lower than those associated with the surfaces themselves. Although defects located at truss corners and truss edges cause the highest elevations in strut strains, their effects on truss strength are small (5–25%). Guidelines are presented for the minimal tensile fracture strain of the constituent material required to achieve the full strength potential of the truss, dictated by large-scale strut buckling.
Can Two Competing On-Demand Service Platforms be Profitable?

Problem Definition: Can two competing on-demand service platforms be profitable in equilibrium? The question is well-studied for firms competing purely on price in a single-sided market, but it is not well-understood for on-demand service platforms competing on price and wage in a “two-sided” market. Academic/Practical Relevance: As entrepreneurs develop and as venture capital firms finance various on-demand service platforms, it is important for them to examine whether multiple competing platforms can co-exist profitably. Methodology: In this paper, we analyze the equilibrium structure by solving different variants of a 2-stage non-cooperative game in which both platforms use lower prices and waiting time to compete for more customers and higher wages and utilization to entice more providers to participate. Results: We first examine a base case when both firms operate under seven operational assumptions: 1) Non-exclusive providers; 2) Non-exclusive customers; 3) Pure pricing strategies; 4) Constant pricing; 5) Homogeneous services; 6) Homogeneous providers; and 7) Homogeneous customers. We find that only one platform can sustain in a payoff dominant stable equilibrium. We examine whether this “winner-take-all” equilibrium would persist when those operational environmental assumptions are relaxed separately. Our analysis reveals that the “winner-take-all” phenomenon continues to persist under promotional pricing strategies, service differentiation, and heterogeneous service providers. However, both platforms can sustain profitably when each platform engages providers (or customers) exclusively, when platforms adopt time-based pricing strategies, or when customers are heterogeneous. Managerial Implications: Our results offer insights into different operating environments under which both platforms can both sustain profitably in equilibrium.
Some International Evidence on Double-Dip Recession

With quarterly data on real gross domestic product for 21 nations from the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, this paper investigates the relatively neglected concept of double-dip recession. For this paper, a double-dip recession is defined as a second decline of real gross domestic product (GDP) after a trough of the economic cycle but prior to the reversion point or the previous peak level of real GDP. We find that while traditional or single-dip recessions constitute the majority of the recessions found for this paper, double-dip recessions are rather common occurrences across the world. However, higher-order multi-dip recessions, with three or more declines of real GDP before the reversion point is attained, are considerably less prevalent. We also find evidence of what we term trough-deepening multi-dip recessions.
Reinforcement of material extrusion 3D printed polycarbonate using continuous carbon fiber

Abstract Additive manufacturing (AM) technologies are capable of fabricating custom parts with complex geometrical shapes in a short period of time relative to traditional fabrication processes that require expensive tooling and several post processing steps. Material extrusion AM, known commercially as Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) technology, is a widely used polymer AM process, however, the effects of inherent porosity on mechanical strength continues to be researched to identify strength improvement solutions. To address the effect of porosity and layer adhesion on mechanical properties (which can sometimes result in 27–35% lower ultimate tensile strength when compared to plastic injection molding), an approach was employed to reinforce 3D printed polycarbonate (PC) parts with continuous carbon fiber (CF) bundles. ASTM D638 Type I specimens were fabricated with printing interruptions to manually place and embed CF bundles. Specimens contained either one, two, or three layers of embedded CF bundles. Results demonstrated a maximum of 77% increase in tensile yield strength when PC was reinforced with three CF bundles and micrographs showed multiple regions with zero porosity due to the CF inclusion. PC with three bundles of CF (modulus of 3.36 GPa) showed 85% higher modulus of elasticity than the neat PC specimens (modulus of 1.82 GPa). The manual placement of CF and its impact on mechanical properties motivated the development of an automated selective deposition method using an ultrasonic embedding apparatus. Substantial technology development towards the embedding process of continuous carbon fiber bundles using ultrasonic energy was achieved in an automated fashion which is complementary of digital manufacturing and novel when compared to other existing processes.
A novel technique for treating deep seated breast cavity boosts.

Abstract Breast boost irradiation is an integral component to the standard of care for early staged breast cancer. The use of reduced tangents is common for deep seating tumor bed; however, reduced tangents result in non-conformal plans delivering prescription dose to large volumes of breast tissue. To improve conformity, a novel technique of integrating a single conformal arc with reduced tangents has been developed. With this technique, a conformal arc was placed between a pair of reduced tangents to better conform the prescription dose to the target volume. This new technique improves the conformity but was also shown to potentially increase max dose to nearby critical structures, such as the heart, due to exit dose from the arc. This tangent and arc technique has been implemented at our clinic in cases where the exit dose is not critical to the heart.
Human blood exposure toClostridium perfringensepsilon toxin may shed light on erythrocyte fragility during active multiple sclerosis

ABSTRACT During active multiple sclerosis (MS), red blood cells (RBCs) harvested from patients reportedly display increased osmotic fragility and increased cellular volume (macrocytosis). The cause of these abnormalities remains unknown. We have previously proposed that Clostridium perfringens epsilon toxin (ETX) may be a blood-borne trigger for newly forming MS lesions based on its tropism for blood-brain barrier vasculature and CNS myelin. Recently, Gao et al. have reported that ETX binds to and damages human RBCs, leading to hemolysis. Moreover, the authors suggest that purinergic nucleotide (P2) receptor activation amplifies the hemolytic process. Here, we confirm that ETX indeed causes human-specific RBC lysis. However, our data suggest that the hemolytic process is mediated by metal-catalyzed oxidation of the swell-induced, nucleotide-sensitive ICln chloride channel. We use spectrophotometry, flow cytometry and Western blotting to show that ETX targets human RBCs and T lymphocytes via their shared expression of Myelin and Lymphocyte protein (MAL); a protein shown to be both necessary and sufficient for ETX binding and toxicity. ETX likely triggers T cells to release redox-active heavy metals, Cu+ and Fe3+, via the lysosomal exocytosis pathway, while RBCs likely release these heavy metals via ETX pore formation within the RBC membrane. Extracellular Cu+ and Fe3+ may then amplify hemolysis by oxidizing a previously identified heavy metal-binding site within the ICln channel pore, thus deregulating its normal conductance. Elucidating the precise mechanism of ETX-mediated hemolysis may shed light on the underlying etiology of MS, as it would explain why MS RBC abnormalities occur during active disease. IMPORTANCE During active MS, numerous reports suggest that circulating RBCs are larger than normal and fragment more easily. The exact trigger(s) for these RBC abnormalities and for newly forming MS lesions remains unidentified. We have proposed that ETX, secreted by the gut bacterium Clostridium perfringens, may be an environmental trigger for newly forming MS lesions. Indeed, ETX has been shown to breakdown the BBB, enter the brain and damage the myelin sheath. Because ETX is typically spread through the circulatory system, we wished to determine how the toxin affects human blood. Provocatively, there has been a recent report that ETX produces cellular abnormalities in human RBCs, reminiscent of what has been described during active MS. In our study, we sought to elucidate the precise mechanism for how ETX causes RBC damage. In addition to triggering BBB breakdown and CNS demyelination, ETX might also explain why RBCs appear abnormal during MS attacks.
Research on Subsynchronous Interaction between direct-drive PMSG based Wind Farm and Static Var Generator

Static Var Generator (SVG) has shown effective functionalities in promoting the system operation security and service reliability. With the integration of large numbers of wind power electronics devices, subsynchronous oscillation (SSO) may jeopardize the stability and mechanical facilities. In this paper, control strategy and simulation model of SVG based on the dq decoupling control are deduced and constructed. In order to study the influence of SVG in direct-drive permanent magnetic synchronous generator (D-PMSG) based wind farms on SSO, the oscillation characteristics by considering the weak AC network and two typical control strategy of SVG are discussed. It is proposed that SVG plays an important role in SSO modes due to their conflicted control targets. And the SSCI between PMSGs-based wind farm and SVG in weak AC network have been studied in time domain simulations and Eigen analysis.
Treatment Refusal in the Setting of Self-Immolation.

Respect for autonomy is a foundational principle of biomedical ethics, and although commonly cited as one of four principles meant to have equal weight, it often seems that medical teams and famili...
Role of Mechanical Circulatory Support in High-Risk Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

The risk of coronary interventions has fallen despite a temporal increase in complexity. However, patients with multiple comorbidities, complex coronary anatomy, and hemodynamic instability who are a high-risk subgroup that need revascularization are not well studied. Our review focuses on the role of mechanical circulatory support (MCS) in high-risk percutaneous coronary intervention (HR-PCI). Among the MCS devices, intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) and Impella have been most studied, albeit with limited randomized controlled trial data. There is no unequivocal evidence of hard clinical benefit with the use of these devices in HR-PCI. Recent large observational studies have shown a signal of harm with current usage patterns in the USA with wide variation in the use of MCS devices among people undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Better defining which patients will obtain a net clinical benefit from MCS-supported PCI is required. Optimal patient and proper device selection is of paramount importance to achieve the best outcomes. The use of MCS devices in percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) should largely be reserved for patients with high SYNTAX scores and EF < 30% that will undergo treatment of longer lengths of disease with atherectomy or have an anticipated long treatment duration and importantly also have a low risk of harm from large bore access for MCS implantation.
Professional Nursing Career Paths: The Non-academic Path

This chapter will describe the various types of academic nursing career paths. These include registered nursing educational paths, advanced practice registered nursing (APRN), and doctoral nursing educational paths. Each “path” will be described to facilitate the identification of which path matches the reader’s self-assessment and interests identified in Chap. 1. Strategies for navigating through various academic career paths such as registered nurse (RN) researcher, advanced practice registered nurse (RN), and registered nurse (RN) educators will be described. Through suggested activities throughout the chapter, readers will explore what strategies they plan to use to build their career path. Sample vignettes depicting an example of academic trajectories will be included. Novice and senior nursing student assessment strategies will both be addressed in this chapter.
Static output feedback stabilization for systems with time-varying delay based on a matrix transformation method

This paper is concerned with the problem of static output feedback stabilization for linear systems with time-varying delay. A novel controller design is proposed based on a matrix transformation method with a new equation condition, which can solve the controller gain more easily and avoid complicated calculations of the non-linear matrix inequality. Then, the corresponding criteria can be obtained by combining the matrix transformation method and the ideas of non-uniformly dividing delay interval, which can guarantee the asymptotic stability of the closed-loop systems and calculate the satisfactory controller gain. Finally, two numerical examples are provided to verify the effectiveness of the proposed design scheme.
Comparison of lock-in and pulse-phase thermography for defect characterization in FRP composites applied to concrete

Thermal imaging is a well-established technique for the non-destructive evaluation of FRP composites applied to reinforced concrete. Defect characterization using IR thermography, however, remains a topic of on-going research, and there are currently no universally accepted standards for data collection or interpretation. This research involved large scale thermography inspection of two FRP strengthened bridge girders that were removed from service after approximately 10 years of service in a potentially corrosive marine environment. Trial inspections were performed on test areas where defects could be identified using sounding methods. Two procedures showed the most promise for identifying and characterizing defects: sinusoidal (lock-in style) heating with periods ranging from 5 s to 40 s and constant step heating for 30 s followed by 60 s of cooling. Both methods resulted in a series of phase images that provided insight into the depth and general nature of detected defects. This paper presents the findings of a comparison study between these two thermal imaging techniques.
A Closed Non-Collapsing 3-D Universe Predicting A New Source of Gravity and Dark Mass

Could one start from scratch, ignore relativity theory and quantum theory, create and expand our 3-D universe with no singularities, have the mathematical model predict correctly all of the cosmological parameters, provide the origins and understanding of time, energy, gravity and some of quantum behavior inside our 3-D universe and do all of that with just high school algebra and a little calculus? The answer is: Yes, it has been done and includes many falsifiable predictions. For the mathematical model, some new physical concepts are needed together with some older physical concepts such as the scaling of radiation and matter with the expansion and the idea that clumps of mass locally curve our 3-D space. Instead of assuming roll-up dimensional changes of space that occurred sometime in the past, here the major postulate is that such an ongoing dimensional change of space drives our universe yet today. The first paper, astro-ph/0102071, presented the predicted magnitudes of the new model for supernova Ia and the excellent fit with the astronomical measurements without the cosmological constant. This second paper will present more of the theory and other important predictions.
Hysteresis in mantle convection: Plate tectonics systems

[1] We use simulations of mantle convection with surface yielding to show that multiple tectonic regimes are possible for equivalent system parameter values. Models with the same lithospheric strength parameters and the same vigor of convection can display different modes of tectonics. Within the region of multiple solutions, the evolutionary pathway of the system is the dominant factor that determines the tectonic mode (e.g., whether mantle convection operates in a plate tectonic like mode). The extent of the multiple regimes window is found to increase with the temperature-dependent viscosity contrast across the system. The implication for models that seek to predict the tectonic regimes of planets is that the temporal evolution of the planet needs to be taken into account. A further implication is that modeling studies can lead to different conclusions regarding the tectonic state of a planet, extra-solar planets in particular, despite the final model parameter values remaining equivalent.
Medical research and the Institutional Review Board: The librarian's role in human subject testing

Purpose – Librarians at Eastern Virginia Medical School established a proactive role in research support when the position of Institutional Review Board (IRB) librarian was created in 2001. Aims to confirm that the IRB librarian assists the school's boards in ensuring human subjects’ protection. Generally, this service is provided in the form of comprehensive searches of medical and other literature and news.Design/methodology/approach – A program was instigated in order to provide expertise in literature searches to support board members, as they review individual protocols.Findings – Although serving a relatively small number of users, the program has a major impact on the school's research agenda.Originality/value – Describes lessons learned, problems encountered, outcomes, and professional gains and lists materials for further reading.
Diagnostic utility of computed tomography imaging in equine intracranial conditions

Summary Reasons for performing study: The use of computer tomography (CT) and contrast-enhanced CT (CCT) to image the head is common. However, the validity of CT as a neurodiagnostic indicator of intracranial diseases in horses is unknown. Objective: To define the validity of CT and CCT in horses with suspected intracranial disorders. Methods: The validity of CT imaging was estimated by comparing clinical, clinicopathological and histopathological findings to CT findings in 15 horses presented for intracranial disorders, for which pre- and post contrast CT images and post mortem examination of the brain and skull were reviewed. Post mortem examination (gross and histopathological examination) was considered as the gold standard; and sensitivity, specificity, predictive values, likelihood ratios, and pre- and post test probabilities were calculated. Results: All horses had abnormal neurological examinations on admission. Computer tomography imaging identified intracranial lesions in 8 horses, and included masses (oligodendroglioma, adenocarcinoma and cholesterinic granulomas), acute haemorrhage and skull fractures. Computer tomography imaging failed to identify intracranial lesions in 6 cases, which included meningitis, meningoencephalitis and nonacute haemorrhage. Lesions not recognised by CT were also not evident on gross examination but were identified by histopathological examination of the brain. Post mortem examination of the brain and skull was unremarkable in one horse, for which cranial CT imaging was normal (specificity, 100%). Therefore, the odds of having an intracranial lesion after an abnormal CT were very high. In contrast, there was a moderate sensitivity (57.1%, 95% confidence interval: 29.6–81.2). Conclusions and potential relevance: CT was an excellent neurodiagnostic tool in identifying skull fractures, intracranial space-occupying lesions (e.g. neoplasia) and acute haemorrhage and allows to rule in intracranial disorders. However, CT showed limited sensitivity in identifying inflammatory disorders and small parenchymal lesions in the equine brain, which was not further detectable after contrast administration.
Identification of laminin α1 and β1 chain peptides active for endothelial cell adhesion, tube formation, and aortic sprouting

Laminin-1 is a basement membrane glycoprotein that promotes several biological activities including cell attachment, tumor metastasis, and angiogenesis. Angiogenesis plays an important role in tissue formation, reproduction, wound healing, and several pathological conditions. In this study, we screened 405 synthetic peptides from the α1 and β1 chains to identify potential sites on laminin-1 active with endothelial cells. Peptides were initially screened by testing both endothelial cell adhesion to peptide-coated wells and tube formation on Matrigel in the presence of soluble peptide. Twenty active peptides were identified in these screens. A secondary screen using the rat aortic ring sprouting assay identified 13 of the 20 peptides that stimulated endothelial sprouting. Several of these active peptides were also found to stimulate human umbilical vein endothelial cell migration in Boyden chamber assays. Differences in the amount of peptide needed for the response and in the resultant morphologies/response...
The Use of QR Factorization in Sparse Quadratic Programming and Backward Error Issues

We present a roundoff error analysis of a null space method for solving quadratic programming minimization problems. This method combines the use of a direct QR factorization of the constraints with an iterative solver on the corresponding null space. Numerical experiments are presented which give evidence of the good performances of the algorithm on sparse matrices.
States of alteration

Changes in Eukaryotic Gene Expression in Response to Environmental Stress. Edited by B.G. Atkinson & D.B. Walden. Academic: 1985. Pp.378. 71.50, 60. The Adaptive Role of Lipids in Biological Systems. By Neil Hadley Wiley: 1985. Pp.319. 39.95, 41.40.
Modelling the impacts of two exotic invasive species on a native butterfly: top-down vs. bottom-up effects.

Summary 1Exotic invasive species can influence population dynamics of native species through top-down or bottom-up forces. The present study examined separate and interactive effects of multiple exotic species invasions on the native mustard white butterfly, Pieris napi oleracea Harris (Lepidoptera: Pieridae), using a stochastic simulation model. 2P. n. oleracea populations in North America have decreased regionally since the 1860s. Competition with an exotic congener (P. rapae L.), loss of native host plants and parasitism by the introduced broconid wasp (Cotesia glomerata L.), have been suggested to be independently responsible for its decline. The present study examined these hypotheses, as well as an alternative, invasion by an exotic crucifer, garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata[Bieb.] Cavara & Grande). 3A stochastic simulation model of P. n. oleracea population dynamics revealed that decreasing the number of host plants available for oviposition and larval development (i.e. habitat loss), sharply reduced the probability of populations persistence and decreased population size for those that persisted. 4Simulated invasion by garlic mustard also substantially decreased both probability of persistence (= 0 at approximately 50% cover) and mean population size. Persistence probability never reached zero under any C. glomerata scenarios, even when larval mortality in the second generation due to parasitism was 100%. The impact of garlic mustard was intensified by the addition of C. glomerata parasitism. 5Results suggest that bottom-up forces, loss of host plants through forest understorey loss and/or garlic mustard invasion are the most important forces driving P. n. oleracea population decline. Parasitism by C. glomerata may interact to reduce P. n. oleracea populations more rapidly, but appears insufficient alone to cause local extinction.
Structures and properties of rapidly solidified 9Cr-lMo steel

Abstract Irradiation induced shifts of the DBTT and possible hydrogen embrittlement of ferritic steels are currently considered major problems for CTR applications. Rapid solidification and in particular liquid dynamic compaction (LDC) has been studied in developing 9Cr-1Mo steel as a candidate first wall material. Structural refinements such as reduction of segregation, fine grain size and fine size of second phase particles are retained in this process and this will have a favorable effect on fracture properties. LDC has also the potential of preparing first wall components directly from the melt and this would have an economic advantage over conventional ingot technology.
Teaching Computer-Aided Process Design to Graduating Seniors.

Abstract The problems or teaching process design to an entire class of senior undergraduate students using industrial CAD tools are described and some solutions offered.
NLSDBA: The National Longitudinal surveys on compact disk

The National Longitudinal Survey of Labor Market Experience of Youth (NLSY) is an ongoing study of 12,686 young men and women who were aged 14 to 21 as of January 1, 1979. Over the years, the respondents have answered a wide variety of over 26,000 questions about their work experience, military experience, training, schooling, family background, marital status, income and assets, health, fertility, child care, and drug and alcohol abuse. The data from the survey are available on CD-ROM. This paper briefly describes the data set and how it may be accessed.
Dynamics and control of vapor recompression distillation

Abstract Vapor recompression distillation is an energy integrated distillation configuration which works on the principle of a heat pump. The tight material and energy integration in such columns shows a potential for intricate dynamics. In this paper, a systematic modeling framework is developed which explicitly captures the discrepancies between different material and energy flows present in such columns. This feature is documented to lead to stiff dynamic equations and multiple time-scale dynamics. Through a nested application of singular perturbations, reduced order non-stiff models are derived which capture the dynamics in each time-scale. A hierarchical control strategy is then proposed exploiting this time-scale multiplicity. A case of propane–propylene separation is considered to illustrate these results and demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy via a simulation case study.
A robust on-the-fly pitch (OTFP) estimation algorithm

Pitch detection or fundamental frequency (f0) estimation is a classical research topic and has been extensively studied for many years. Pitch estimation by embedding speech signal into multiple state-space dimensions is a relatively recent technique. Also YIN pitch detection algorithm [1] has been cited recently as an improvement over other standard pitch estimation algorithms. In this paper an attempt is made to present a unifying view on some of these existing and seemingly disparate techniques. The unified view enables the development of robust formulations of some existing definitions and also helps to interpret the limitations of the classical/existing approaches in use. Application of the idea for a robust On-the-Fly pitch (OTFP) detection is demonstrated and comparison with robust YIN pitch detector has yielded encouraging results. The On-The-Fly imposes a constraint that pitch or aperiodicity estimates from past or future speech frames are not to be used at a post processing stage and OTFP outperforms the YIN estimator with this constraint.
Hydroxamates of tissue-activated acyls: preparation and separation.

Abstract To determine the amount of reactive acyl present in tissue with the aid of hydroxylamine, it is necessary to heat inactive (10 min, 70°) the enzymes responsible for the enzymic formation of hydroxamates. Such heat treatment is shown to leave intact the thiol acyl forms of the monobasic acids studied but to destroy the succinyl derivative. Extraction and fractionation of formed hydroxamates, prior to chromatography, is done with butanol.
Does technology integration "work" when key barriers are removed?

The effectiveness of Tennessee EdTech Launch (TnETL), a statewide technology program designed to meet the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) mandate, was investigated in this matched treatment‐control quasi‐experimental study. The goal of the program was to provide full‐time, on‐site technology coaches to prepare teachers to create lessons that engage students in critical thinking and use of computers as tools in order to increase learning. The study examined TnETL impact on student achievement, teachers' skills and attitudes toward technology integration; use of research‐based practices; and students' skills in using technology as a tool. The study was implemented in two cohorts: “Launches” 1 and 2. This paper presents the findings of Launch 1, a three‐year program that involved 26 schools, 12,420 students and 927 teachers. Program effectiveness was measured via direct classroom observations, surveys, student performance assessments, focus groups, and student achievement analysis. Survey results showed that pro...
Older Adults With Intellectual Disabilities: Targets for Increasing Victimization, A Call for a Preemptive Screening Policy

The aging population is a rapidly growing demographic in the United States. Isolation, limited autonomy, and declining physical and mental health render many older adults vulnerable to abuse, neglect, and exploitation. As the population grows, so does the need for Adult Protective Services (APS). This article highlights an ultrasensitive subgroup of older adults who may be more susceptible to victimization—those who have Alzheimer's disease or dementia. The article proposes a model approach to strengthen APS's response to initial calls of elder maltreatment, particularly within the state of Georgia, so that professionals are better prepared to detect and intervene on behalf of older abuse victims who may lack the capacity to do so by themselves.
Total Synthesis of (+)-Laurencin: An Asymmetric Alkylation−Ring-Closing Metathesis Approach to Medium Ring Ethers

The enantioselective total synthesis of (+)-laurencin 1 is achieved in 18 steps from (S)-(+)-4-benzyl-3-benzyloxyacetyl-2-oxazolidinone. The key steps in this synthesis are an asymmetric glycolate alkylation leading to acyl oxazolidinone 2 and a subsequent ring-closing olefin metathesis to construct the oxocene core of 1. The approach to medium ring ethers utilized in this synthesis provides a general and efficient route to the cyclic core of other marine natural products.
A searching procedure for transformations and models in a classical Mendelian cross breeding study

Adopting Wright's four criteria (homogeneity, normality, additivity of effects, and parsimony of parameters needed) concerning a good scale of measurement, a systematic procedure is presented to find an adequate transformation for the data of a classical Mendelian cross. By using Cavalli's least-squares fitting procedure, fits of all possible genetical (sub) models are compared to each other. The model yielding the best fit with as few parameters as possible is selected. More complex models are accepted only if they fit significantly better than simpler ones. Four worked examples are presented from a classical cross study in rats: time till onset of a learned bar-press response under a continuous-reinforcement schedule and protein content, acetylcholinesterase activity, and butrylcholinesterase activity in the occipital cortex. Using several transformations, invariance of resulting models was found if the criterion of homogeneity of variance was met.
Child and classroom characteristics associated with the adult language provided to preschoolers with autism spectrum disorder

Abstract The aim of this study was to examine associations between the automated Language ENvironment Analysis (LENA) system adult word count (AWC) variable and characteristics of classrooms (e.g., teacher burnout) and preschoolers with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) (e.g., autism severity). The AWC samples from 67 preschoolers with ASD were collected during typical morning classroom routines (e.g., center time). Results indicated that AWC was positively associated with children's cognitive ability and negatively associated teacher burnout and adult to student with ASD ratio. Lower adult to children with ASD ratio (i.e., fewer adults relative to students with ASD) resulted in preschoolers receiving less adult language. Additional factors thought to be related to child and classroom characteristics affecting the adult language directed at children with ASD are discussed.
Tool update: visflowconnect-IP with advanced filtering from usability testing

This paper highlights major enhancements made to the security visualization tool -- VisFlowConnect-IP -- since it was first presented at the VizSEC/DMSEC 2004 Workshop.
ON THE SUPPOSED PARTIAL LIBERATION OF HA; MOGLOBIN FROM THE MAMMALIAN ERYTHROCYTE

In the haemolysis of mammalian red cells, whether by complement and amboceptor, freezing and thawing, saponin, or hypotonic saline, the amount of haemoglobin liberated is determined by the number of cells haemolysed. The cells give up no haemoglobin until they haemolyse, and then liberate all or very nearly all of it. There is no evidence that partial liberation of haemoglobin occurs.
Creating Opportunities: Embedded Librarians

ABSTRACT Embedded librarianship focuses on the user and brings the library and the librarian to the user, wherever they are—office, laboratory, home, or even on their mobile device. This article provides an overview of the various ways libraries and librarians are embedding themselves into research and learning environs. Several roles are highlighted, including course-integrated instruction librarians as members of research teams, librarians collaborating with faculty in scholarly communication activities and librarians as partners in multidisciplinary, global, and virtual collaborations. Definitions of key terms precede the overview and provide context; consideration of the human resources side of the equation follows. Reflections on organizational structure conclude the article.
Comparison of calculated oscillator strengths for Si III

Abstract Oscillator strengths have been calculated for many of the major transitions in Si III using both dipole length and dipole velocity matrix elements. Three approximations to the many-electron correlation problem are explored and compared: (1) the use of configuration interaction employing a semiempirical frozen core potential; (2) the use of configuration interaction employing a modified Hartree-Fock-Slater basis set; and (3) the use of the Coulomb approximation whereby a wavefunction is constructed with the correct asymptotic behavior. None of these methods as far as they have been carried out here is found to be fully satisfactory. Emphasis is placed upon the difficulty of calculating transition probabilities between high-lying energy levels which are strongly perturbed.
Review of: Ethics for Public Communication: Defining Moments in Media History, by C. G. Christians, M. Fackler, and J. Ferre

Christians, C. G., Fackler, M., & Ferre, J. (2011). New York, NY: Oxford University Press, 320 pp. $44.95 (paperback). Venerable, old-school journalists such as Edward R. Murrow and Walter Cronkite...