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While parenting can be deeply rewarding, it also comes with significant challenges—especially for parents of children with complex care needs (CCN). Children with CCN concern those who have a combination of enduring physical, developmental, behavioral and/or emotional problems and needs, typically requiring (health) care services beyond what is typically required (Mc Pherson et al., 1998). Parents of children with CCN often face unique demands in their role as parents, such as extensive daily assistance, complex medical tasks, and uncertainty regarding the disability or illness and its progression (Hodapp et al., 2019; Power et al., 2019). The concept of ‘parental burnout’ was introduced in the 1980s (Procaccini & Kiefaver, 1983) to describe how prolonged exposure to parenting-related stress may have severe long-term psychosocial effects. Studies consistently show that parents of children with CCN tend to report higher levels of burnout-related thoughts and feelings compared to parents of children without CCN (for an overview see Patty et al., 2024). Parental burnout is often linked to the burden of prolonged caregiving demands without reprieve. The Parental Burnout Assessment (PBA) has emerged as the preferred questionnaire for the measurement of parental burnout (Arikan et al., 2020). Developed by Roskam et al. (2018), the PBA has demonstrated strong psychometric properties across languages and cultural contexts (Roskam et al., 2021). However, it remains unclear if the PBA has the same psychometric qualities among parents of children with CCN as among parents of children without CCN. As such, the question remains if the differences in the endorsement of burnout-related thoughts and feelings reflect variations in the intensity of these experiences or differences in the underlying interpretation among parents of children with CCN and parents without children with CCN. Therefore, the aim of this study is to examine the psychometric properties of the PBA across parents of children with CCN and parents of children without CCN, to test invariance, compare levels of burnout-related thoughts and feelings between these two groups, and to explore the associations between socio-demographic characteristics and burnout scores. Research on parental burnout has grown rapidly (Mikolajczak et al., 2023; Ren et al., 2024), with several studies comparing burnout levels between parents of children with CCN to those without. Parents of children with CCN tend to report higher levels of burnout compared to parents of children without CCN, with prevalence estimates ranging from 20-77% for parents of children with CCN (compared to 20–34% among parents of children without CCN) (Patty et al., 2024). Several factors may contribute to these differences, including the use of diverse instruments for measuring burnout, heterogeneity within the parent population (e.g., type and severity of the child's diagnosis), and potential differences in the meaning of the construct across parents of children with CCN and those without. It is also possible that parental burnout manifests differently in parents of children with CCN than those without. A recent qualitative study with parents of children with CCN found that parents conceptualize burnout as having a long-term recurring nature, a process beginning with stress symptoms (consisting of e.g., physical and cognitive complaints, troubles sleeping, depressive feelings) that develops into overexertion and burnout, and a state of "survival mode", characterized by efforts by parents to project an image of control and normalcy (“fighting”), while simultaneously emotionally and physically withdrawing from others and even from themselves (“fleeing”; Patty et al., 2024). Underlying this conceptualization is the long-term responsibility, which parents cannot relinquish (Abdoli et al., 2018; Patty et al., 2024a). This nuanced, process-oriented and metaphorical understanding of burnout among parents of children with CCN contrasts with the operationalization of burnout in the PBA which was created based on five testimonies of burned-out mothers among parents in general (Roskam et al., 2018). The PBA conceptualizes burnout through four dimensions: emotional exhaustion (EE; e.g., “I’m in survival mode in my role as a parent”), emotional distancing from one’s child (ED; e.g., “I do what I’m supposed to do for my child(ren), but nothing more”), feelings of being fed up with the parental role (FU; “I can’t take being a parent any more”), and a contrast with previous parental self (CO; e.g., ”I’m ashamed of the parent that I’ve become”) (Roskam et al., 2018). While some of the themes in the qualitative analysis overlap with the PBA- such as the partial overlap between ED and “fleeing”, the PBA survival item and “survival mode”- the qualitative findings highlight additional experiential aspects and depth into the conceptualization of burnout such as the long-term trajectory and its recurring nature, distancing from not only one's child but also from others and oneself, and deeper insight of "surviving” which constitutes physically and emotionally fleeing parenting. These aspects are not fully captured by the PBA's current framework. At the same time, the PBA highlights aspects that were not described by parents of children with CCN in the qualitative study, such as the contrast between the current and previous parental self. These differences possibly limit the usability of the PBA in parents of children with CCN. Additionally, studies have shown associations between parents’ socio-demographic characteristics and burnout related thoughts and feelings, among both parents of children with CCN and parents without children with CCN (see for example, Gérain & Zech, 2018; Lebert-Charron et al., 2018; Lindström et al., 2011). Hence, socio-demographic characteristics may impact burnout scores differently among parents of children with CCN compared to those without. Meaningful comparisons between groups depend on whether the PBA can be considered invariant – that is, the degree to which the PBA measures the same construct in the same way across these groups. Without establishing invariance, it remains unclear whether observed differences in burnout-related scores reflect the true differences in burnout levels, or whether they stem from differences in how burnout is interpreted and experienced across groups. By establishing the extent of measurement invariance at the total score level, across dimensions, or at the level of individual items – group differences can be more accurately interpreted if invariant. However, it is also possible that invariance does not hold, necessitating caution in the interpretation of observed group differences. Establishing measurement invariance across parents of children with CCN and those without is thus a prerequisite for valid mean score comparisons and for the appropriate use of the PBA as outcome measure in future research. Therefore, this study focuses on answering the following research questions: (1) To what extent does the PBA demonstrate measurement invariance across parents of children with CCN and parents of children without CCN? (2) Taking the structure of the PBA in both samples into account, what are the differences between these two groups? (3) And which sociodemographic characteristics (such as, parental age, gender, education, occupation, ethnicity, child’s age, number of children and family composition) are associated with burnout among parents of children with CCN and parents without children without CCN?

Introduction [1] Chicken major histocompatibility complex (MHC) region are important in immune responses, resistance to diseases, and relationships with evolution processes. The chicken major histocompatibility complex is composed of two gene regions: the B and Y (Rfp-Y) loci, both located on micro chromosome 16. The B locus includes three gene classes, I (B-F), II (B-L) and IV (B-G). The chicken major histocompatibility complex, consists of several clusters of highly polymorphic genes, some of which are associated with disease resistance. The class I and class II antigens resemble their mammalian counterparts in the encoded protein structure. The class IV region encodes the B blood group antigens, which are readily identified by serological blood-typing. The class III region appears to be divided in chickens, with some elements that are MHC-linked and others that map elsewhere. In addition the Rfp-Y system, which bears a strong similarity to the MHC, maps to the opposite side of the nucleolar organizer region on the same micro chromosome as the MHC. Each class of MHC genes is a potential candidate for a role in disease resistance. The MHC genes show associations with response to diseases as diverse as virally induced neoplasia, bacterial, parasitic and auto-immune diseases.   Materials and Methods In this study, allelic polymorphism in B-L, B-F and B-G loci involved in the immune system in four Iranian indigenous chickens were examined using PCR-RFLP technique. Two hundred birds including common, West Azerbaijan, Marandi, Mazandarani indigenous chicken breeds were selected. As much as 1-2 ml of blood was taken from each of the chicken. Blood samples were transferred to the anticoagulant (Ethylene diamine tetra acetic acid) tubes in the vicinity of the ice to the genetic and biotechnological laboratory of Islamic Azad University, Maragheh branch and until the onset of genomic DNA extraction and subsequent experiments were kept at -20°C. In the extraction of the genomic DNA of blood samples, the salting out method and for amplify of each locus, a pair of specific primers was used. For detection of mutation in the loci the Msp I enzyme was used. For genetic analysis of data derived from digestive enzymes in indigenous chickens, POPGENE software version 1.32 was used. This software is used to estimate the allele and genotypic frequencies, observed and expected heterozygosity, mean heterozygosity, Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, Fixation index, Shannon information index, and other genetic parameters.   Results and Discussion According to this study results, in the 374-bp locus of B-L, after enzymatic digestion, only BB genotype and monomorphic was detected. In the 1048 bp locus of B-F, two genotypes CG and GG were identified and the C allele included 515, 410, 75 and 47 bp bands, and the G allele also included bands of 410, 302, 213, 75 and 47 bp and the χ2 calculated in this locus was not significant for all populations (P < 0.05), and all populations were in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. Three Genotype MM, MN and NN genotypes were identified for the locus of B-G (401 bp), M allele included a 401 bp band and N allele included bands of 350 and 51 bp. The χ2 calculated in this locus was not significant for the indigenous chicken population of Mazandarani (P < 0.05) and this population was in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. The Shannon information index was calculated to be 0.37 and 0.59 in markers loci of B-F and B-G, respectively, and the fixation index values were -0.13 and -0.17, respectively. The highest observed heterozygosity index for B-L and B-G loci was 0.24 and 0.57, respectively. Estimation of the negative fixation index values in the studied chickens populations could be due to the high selection rate in the populations. The fixation index values is always variable in range -1 to 1, and its negativity indicates a decrease in heterozygosity and increase in homozygosity or increased inbreeding, as well as a deviation from the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium in the populations. Shannon's information index is an estimate of genetic diversity in populations. In all of the populations studied, the B-G locus has a relatively high genetic diversity.   Conclusion Regarding the polymorphism in the two gene sites (B-F and B-G) studied and the heterozygosity reduction in the populations studied, can be prevented from occurrence of non-random crosses in populations and prevented the reduction of heterozygosity and thus reduced genetic diversity. Also, by studying the immune responses associated with these two gene sites, from these genes can be used as marker for genetic breeding in indigenous chickens for increase of resistance to diseases.  

Introduction [1] Chicken major histocompatibility complex (MHC) region are important in immune responses, resistance to diseases, and relationships with evolution processes. The chicken major histocompatibility complex is composed of two gene regions: the B and Y (Rfp-Y) loci, both located on micro chromosome 16. The B locus includes three gene classes, I (B-F), II (B-L) and IV (B-G). The chicken major histocompatibility complex, consists of several clusters of highly polymorphic genes, some of which are associated with disease resistance. The class I and class II antigens resemble their mammalian counterparts in the encoded protein structure. The class IV region encodes the B blood group antigens, which are readily identified by serological blood-typing. The class III region appears to be divided in chickens, with some elements that are MHC-linked and others that map elsewhere. In addition the Rfp-Y system, which bears a strong similarity to the MHC, maps to the opposite side of the nucleolar organizer region on the same micro chromosome as the MHC. Each class of MHC genes is a potential candidate for a role in disease resistance. The MHC genes show associations with response to diseases as diverse as virally induced neoplasia, bacterial, parasitic and auto-immune diseases.   Materials and Methods In this study, allelic polymorphism in B-L, B-F and B-G loci involved in the immune system in four Iranian indigenous chickens were examined using PCR-RFLP technique. Two hundred birds including common, West Azerbaijan, Marandi, Mazandarani indigenous chicken breeds were selected. As much as 1-2 ml of blood was taken from each of the chicken. Blood samples were transferred to the anticoagulant (Ethylene diamine tetra acetic acid) tubes in the vicinity of the ice to the genetic and biotechnological laboratory of Islamic Azad University, Maragheh branch and until the onset of genomic DNA extraction and subsequent experiments were kept at -20°C. In the extraction of the genomic DNA of blood samples, the salting out method and for amplify of each locus, a pair of specific primers was used. For detection of mutation in the loci the Msp I enzyme was used. For genetic analysis of data derived from digestive enzymes in indigenous chickens, POPGENE software version 1.32 was used. This software is used to estimate the allele and genotypic frequencies, observed and expected heterozygosity, mean heterozygosity, Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, Fixation index, Shannon information index, and other genetic parameters.   Results and Discussion According to this study results, in the 374-bp locus of B-L, after enzymatic digestion, only BB genotype and monomorphic was detected. In the 1048 bp locus of B-F, two genotypes CG and GG were identified and the C allele included 515, 410, 75 and 47 bp bands, and the G allele also included bands of 410, 302, 213, 75 and 47 bp and the χ2 calculated in this locus was not significant for all populations (P < 0.05), and all populations were in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. Three Genotype MM, MN and NN genotypes were identified for the locus of B-G (401 bp), M allele included a 401 bp band and N allele included bands of 350 and 51 bp. The χ2 calculated in this locus was not significant for the indigenous chicken population of Mazandarani (P < 0.05) and this population was in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. The Shannon information index was calculated to be 0.37 and 0.59 in markers loci of B-F and B-G, respectively, and the fixation index values were -0.13 and -0.17, respectively. The highest observed heterozygosity index for B-L and B-G loci was 0.24 and 0.57, respectively. Estimation of the negative fixation index values in the studied chickens populations could be due to the high selection rate in the populations. The fixation index values is always variable in range -1 to 1, and its negativity indicates a decrease in heterozygosity and increase in homozygosity or increased inbreeding, as well as a deviation from the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium in the populations. Shannon's information index is an estimate of genetic diversity in populations. In all of the populations studied, the B-G locus has a relatively high genetic diversity.   Conclusion Regarding the polymorphism in the two gene sites (B-F and B-G) studied and the heterozygosity reduction in the populations studied, can be prevented from occurrence of non-random crosses in populations and prevented the reduction of heterozygosity and thus reduced genetic diversity. Also, by studying the immune responses associated with these two gene sites, from these genes can be used as marker for genetic breeding in indigenous chickens for increase of resistance to diseases.  

The work that we conducted was aimed at moving wound research beyond the limitations of culture-based microbial analyses to enable comprehensive characterization of wound colonization and to fully evaluate its impact on healing. We successfully developed a novel, culture-independent approach for characterizing wound microbiota; we succeeded in applying statistical tools to begin characterizing the impact of antibiotic therapies and diabetes on wound microbiota; we used our novel strategies to define macro-scale spatial variation in chronic wound microbiota; we established research partnerships with MIHS to conduct prospective cohort studies on burn and chronic wounds; we enrolled a total of 71 patients into a prospective study of burn wound colonization and collected over 700 wound samples from these patients; we developed new protocols to isolate bacterial DNA from burn wounds with minimal exogenous DNA contamination; we developed a novel bioinformatics pipeline for identifying robust real time PCR targets for detection and quantification of clinical pathogens; and developed a comprehensive panel of TaqMan assays (n = 108) for detection of extraintestinal virulence factors in E. coli.

The TSC1/TSC2 complex integrates multiple cues to regulate protein translation and cell growth via mammalian target of rapamycin complex I (mTORC1). Loss of TSC functions leads to constitutive activation of mTORC1 and uncontrolled mRNA translation. The goal of this res earch project to elucidate cis -regulatory elements and trans -acting factors in TSC-mTORC1- mediated translational regulation. We have discovered that the stress -induced preferential translation of Hsp70 mRNA is deficient in cells lacking TSC2. This finding provides a plausible mechanism about how persistent mTOR signaling favors the development of various pathologies of TSC by attenuating stress resistance. We recently discovered that TSC -mTORC1 increased the yield of protein synthesis at the expense of protein quality. By harnessing the power of ribosome profiling, we also discovered post-initiation ribosomal pausing that is subject to TSC-mTORC1 regulation. In addition, we have established a novel approach called Global Translation Initiation sequencing (GTI-seq) to investigate alternative translation. These studies are significant because TSC-mTORC1-controlled alternative translation initiation has never been defined.

Computational radar target signature generation is considered as an integral component of a future target recognition system. It provides a comprehensive reference library database for target identification of a wide variety of targets, for example, aircraft, marine vessels and ground vehicles. Compiling an operational library will require an electromagnetic code that is capable of generating reliable and robust radar target signatures.

Independent Component Analysis (ICA) has largely been applied to the biomedical field over the past two decades and only recently extended to the processing of complex non-circular sources. The feasibility and performance of complex ICA to extract a weak co-channel interfering communications signal from a television broadcast signal is investigated in this thesis. The performance of three algorithms, complex maximization of non-Gaussianity (CMN) by Novey et al., RobustICA by Zarzoso et al., and complex fixed-point algorithm (CFPA) by Douglas, over varied interference-to-noise ratios (INR) for a fixed signal-to-interference ratio (SIR) is obtained by simulation. The communication signals examined for the weak interferer are binary phase-shift keying (BPSK), four-level rectangular quadrature amplitude modulation (4-QAM), and 16-level rectangular quadrature amplitude modulation (16-QAM), and the television broadcast signals are North American standard, Advanced Television Systems Committee (ATSC) and European standard, Digital Video Broadcasting - Terrestrial (DVB-T). Improved performance and sensitivity to the prewhitening step present in the ICA implementations are shown as the number of sensors increases.

Multiple mesoscale numerical weather simulations are conducted to evaluate whether Ensemble Sensitivity Analysis (ESA) is a useful tool determining the sensitivity of a severe downslope windstorm (DSWS) in complex terrain to initial conditions and assimilated observations. A 96-member ensemble is implemented with 1.33 km grid spacing. Sensitive regions are found both upstream and downstream, based on a new forecast metric that indicates the potential for turbulence and strong winds reaching the Earth s surface. Approximating the effects of assimilating a perfect observation at these sensitivity locations, then executing non-linear ensemble forecasts, shows the linear approximations in ESA are reasonable. We analyze the roles of upstream wind and stability structures, and leeside conditions, in determining the strength and propagation of winds down the mountain slope and onto the adjacent plains. Results suggest that ESA is a viable method to identify observation locations to improve forecasts of fine-scale, non-linear, high-impact events such as DSWS. Also, 14 severe DSWS identified by the High Wind Alert System located at the USAF Academy, CO are modeled utilizing a deterministic WRF configuration. Analysis shows that non-wave breaking events account for the strongest DSWS and propagate further away from the mountains than breaking events at this location.

Culture-based and molecular-based studies highlight the diversity of bacterial pathogens in non-healing wounds, but these diverse bacterial communities have yet to be fully characterized. An enhanced understanding of the complex wound microbial communities is crucial to the development of next-generation wound diagnostics and therapeutics. The purpose of this project is to develop and apply cutting-edge molecular technologies to characterize wound microbiota in a non-biased, culture-independent fashion. To date we have: 1) Developed and applied a rapid, qPCR-based method for assessing bacterial load in wounds; 2) Developed and applied a novel, culture-independent pyrosequencing approach to characterize bacterial communities in wounds; 3) Pioneered an ecological-based statistical approach for analyzing microbial communities in a clinical context; 4) Revealed association between antibiotic therapy and increased Pseudomonas colonization in chronic wounds; and 5) Revealed association between diabetes and Streptococcus colonization in chronic wounds. We expect that our advances will facilitate a deeper understanding of the role of microbial colonization in wound healing and lead to more evidence-based wound therapies in the future.

Heating, ventilation and air conditioning HVAC system provides thermal comfotness to occupants by supplying cooling air from air conditioning system through duct arrangement in building. The aim of this project is to analyse air conditioning arrangements for two floor shopping complexes using Revit MEP software. First and second floors layouts and ceiling with duct arrangements are created in software and then given positions like spacing and zonings to duct arrangements, finally by analysing the layouts individual cooling and heating loads are generated automatically. Compared to first floor second floor require more load.  by S. Visweswara Rao | Badisha Gopi | Aggidi Harish | Boda Sumanth "Analysis of Air Conditioning Arrangement for Two Floor Shopping Complex by using Revit MEP Software"  Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-3 | Issue-3 , April 2019,  URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd23257.pdf Paper URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/engineering/mechanical-engineering/23257/analysis-of-air-conditioning-arrangement-for-two-floor-shopping-complex-by-using-revit-mep-software/s-visweswara-rao

Three related technical areas associated with modeling of electromagnetic coupling into complex systems were examined. The first area was the development of hybrid numerical models for modeling shielded enclosures containing wires of arbitrary orientation and shape and the shield containing tortuous path apertures. The second area was the modeling of very large cavities using domain decomposition methods. The third and final area was the accurate modeling of transient electromagnetic phenomena using methods borrowed from computational fluid dynamics. With varying degrees of success, progress was made in each area in advancing the state-of-the art. This was especially true in the development of the hybrid numerical methods and modeling of transient electromagnetic phenomena. In addition the effort resulted in several publications as well as the graduation of several students.

Some methods of analyzing experimental data for complex targets and reverberation are outlined, including a heuristic discussion of what constitutes an ensemble and how to obtain one experimentally. The problem of then determining whether or not the actual data form a valid ensemble is considered. Tests for the stability, or stationarity, of the underlying random mechanism are briefly described (test of independence and homogeneity); tests of whether or not a particular data set belongs to some postulated probability distribution are provided (goodness-of-fit), including a powerful test for establishing the normality or non-normality of the sample. Among the tests considered are the X squared, the Kolmogorov-Smirnov, the runs test, and the W-test for normality. These tests are carried out for some hypothetical reverberation data to illustrate the individual tests, at particular ranges, which can include the domain of a target reverberation. Some second-order properties of various classes of second moments of these data are also discussed, and an approach to relating simulated data to those from a real environment is briefly sketched. This memorandum is intended as a preliminary guide to the statistical treatment of data that are obtained in target and background measurements.

Thesis advisors, David D. Cleary and Oscar Biblarz

595 pages

This paper describes the analysis of teacher pedagogical content knowledge for the topics of heat, energy, and temperature. The results of the study of these (n=6) 7th and 8th grade teachers indicate that teachers may be weak in this type of knowledge despite their experience and pedagogical expertise. Specific information is provided about existing and desired pedagogical content knowledge for this topic area, thereby identifying knowledge that can help teachers be more effective at facilitating the development of scientific knowledge, and alerting teacher educators to possible areas of weakness. In addition, the conceptual schemes that were used to identify teacher pedagogical content knowledge provides information that can be useful for conceptually framing analyses of this type of knowledge for other areas which is of immediate advantage to researchers, and of eventual benefit to teachers and teacher educators as this type of knowledge is catalogued and shared. Teacher reports of their instruction indicate that the knowledge evident in their interview was not necessarily employed in their teaching. This discrepancy indicates that the complexity of how teacher knowledge translates into instructional actions and points to the need for investigation of teacher knowledge and decision-making in all phases of teaching. (Author/MKR)

Recently American attention has focused on the problems of pollution and environmental protection. Focusing on the Four Corners Interstate Air Quality Control Region, this study determined which socioeconomic characteristics were associated with concern for environmental quality as measured by willingness to pay for pollution abatement. Sample sites were determined by weighing four pollution concentration zones. Interviews were conducted during the 1972 summer and January 1973 with 747 reservation and nonreservation residents and out-of-region recreationists. Separate questionnaires, designed for each subpopulation, were used to determine willingness to pay via a series of bidding games. To ensure that the means of financing was not a barrier to a respondent's willingness to pay and since no bidding game was appropriate for all, five games were constructed--a sales tax increase; an additional charge to the electric bill; a monthly charge; an increase to the user's fee; or a change in laws. Responses were analyzed by stepwise multiple regression. Some findings were: (1) few consistent relationships existed between concern for environment and socioeconomic characteristics (age, occupation, income, ethnicity, and organizational participation); and (2) a clear majority were willing to pay for pollution abatement. (NQ)

Written for junior-level undergraduate students that are majoring in math, physics, computer science, and electrical engineering. Limits theoretical coverage to only what is necessary, and conveys it in a student-friendly style.

Written for junior-level undergraduate students that are majoring in math, physics, computer science, and electrical engineering. Limits theoretical coverage to only what is necessary, and conveys it in a student-friendly style.

Co-authorship graphs (that is, the graph of authors linked by co-authorship of papers) are complex networks, which expresses the dynamics of a complex system. Only recently its study has started to draw interest from the EC community, the first paper dealing with it having been published two years ago. In this paper we will study the co-authorship network of EC at a microscopic level. Our objective is ascertaining which are the most relevant nodes (i.e. authors) in it. For this purpose, we examine several metrics defined in the complex-network literature, and analyze them both in isolation and combined within a Pareto-dominance approach. The result of our analysis indicates that there are some well-known researchers that appear systematically in top rankings. This also provides some hints on the social behavior of our community.

A method for estimating the structural vibration properties of complex systems in high frequency environments was investigated. The structure analyzed was the Materials Experiment Assembly, (MEA), which is a portion of the OST-2A payload for the space transportation system. Statistical energy analysis (SEA) techniques were used to model the structure and predict the structural element response to acoustic excitation. A comparison of the intial response predictions and measured acoustic test data is presented. The conclusions indicate that: the SEA predicted the response of primary structure to acoustic excitation over a wide range of frequencies; and the contribution of mechanically induced random vibration to the total MEA is not significant.

In the field of microwave radiometry, Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) consistently degrades the value of scientific results. Through the use of digital receivers and signal processing, the effects of RFI on scientific measurements can be reduced depending on certain circumstances. As technology allows us to implement wider band digital receivers for radiometry, the problem of RFI mitigation changes. Our work focuses on finding a detector that outperforms real kurtosis in wide band scenarios. The algorithm implemented is a complex signal kurtosis detector which was modeled and simulated. The performance of both complex and real signal kurtosis is evaluated for continuous wave, pulsed continuous wave, and wide band quadrature phase shift keying (QPSK) modulations. The use of complex signal kurtosis increased the detectability of interference.

In the field of microwave radiometry, Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) consistently degrades the value of scientific results. Through the use of digital receivers and signal processing, the effects of RFI on scientific measurements can be reduced depending on certain circumstances. As technology allows us to implement wider band digital receivers for radiometry, the problem of RFI mitigation changes. Our work focuses on finding a detector that outperforms real kurtosis in wide band scenarios. The algorithm implemented is a complex signal kurtosis detector which was modeled and simulated. The performance of both complex and real signal kurtosis is evaluated for continuous wave, pulsed continuous wave, and wide band quadrature phase shift keying (QPSK) modulations. The use of complex signal kurtosis increased the detectability of interference.

Based on the principle that alphabetical arrangement should be based on the characters actually appearing in the sort field, a computer filing code was produced which provides rules for formatting entries for computer manipulation. This study applies the principles developed in that code to library subject headings, using a sample of the Library of Congress list of subject headings as a basis. The study was limited to formatting and styling procedures. A preliminary investigation was performed to determine the kinds of headings which would arrange on the computer in an order different from the present one. A set of rules for styling of headings so that they could be computer arranged in an order somewhat simpler than the present one was developed and tested. This test was partially successful: the rules can be applied clerically, and professional effort can be limited to editing on the basis of a preliminary sort. The styled headings were sorted once and edited, and the output will be available from the archives of the Office of Education. The order and appearance of the styled headings are somewhat different from the subject heading list. However, the sorting order of only 2.4% of the headings which were not part of large groups all beginning with the same word was changed. It was concluded that, with some reservations, the study demonstrated that subject headings can be so styled as to file unambiguously on the computer. (Author/JB)

Based on the principle that alphabetical arrangement should be based on the characters actually appearing in the sort field, a computer filing code was produced which provides rules for formatting entries for computer manipulation. This study applies the principles developed in that code to library subject headings, using a sample of the Library of Congress list of subject headings as a basis. The study was limited to formatting and styling procedures. A preliminary investigation was performed to determine the kinds of headings which would arrange on the computer in an order different from the present one. A set of rules for styling of headings so that they could be computer arranged in an order somewhat simpler than the present one was developed and tested. This test was partially successful: the rules can be applied clerically, and professional effort can be limited to editing on the basis of a preliminary sort. The styled headings were sorted once and edited, and the output will be available from the archives of the Office of Education. The order and appearance of the styled headings are somewhat different from the subject heading list. However, the sorting order of only 2.4% of the headings which were not part of large groups all beginning with the same word was changed. It was concluded that, with some reservations, the study demonstrated that subject headings can be so styled as to file unambiguously on the computer. (Author/JB)

In this thesis we study convolutions that arise from noncommutative probability theory. We prove several regularity results for free convolutions, and for measures in partially defined one-parameter free convolution semigroups. We discuss connections between Boolean and free convolutions and, in the last chapter, we prove that any infinitely divisible probability measure with respect to monotonic additive or multiplicative convolution belongs to a one-parameter semigroup with respect to the corresponding convolution. Earlier versions of some of the results in this thesis have already been published, while some others have been submitted for publication. We have preserved almost entirely the specific format for PhD theses required by Indiana University. This adds several unnecessary pages to the document, but we wanted to preserve the specificity of the document as a PhD thesis at Indiana University.

The thorough analysis of the ALEPH data on hadronic tau-decay is performed in the framework of QCD. The perturbative calculations are performed in 3 and 4-loop approximations. The terms of the operator product expansion (OPE) are accounted up to dimension D=8. The value of the QCD coupling constant alpha_s(m_tau^2)=0.355 pm 0.025 was found from hadronic branching ratio R_tau. The V+A and V spectral function are analyzed using analytical properties of polarization operators in the whole complex q^2-plane. Borel sum rules in the complex q^2 plane along the rays, starting from the origin, are used. It was demonstrated that QCD with OPE terms is in agreement with the data for the coupling constant close to the lower error edge alpha_s(m_tau^2)=0.330. The restriction on the value of the gluonic condensate was found =0.006 pm 0.012 GeV^2. The analytical perturbative QCD was compared with the data. It is demonstrated to be in strong contradiction with experiment. The restrictions on the renormalon contribution were found. The instanton contributions to the polarization operator are analyzed in various sum rules. In Borel transformation they appear to be small, but not in spectral moments sum rules.

The local structure entropy is a new method which is proposed to identify the influential nodes in the complex networks. In this paper a new form of the local structure entropy of the complex networks is proposed based on the Tsallis entropy. The value of the entropic index $q$ will influence the property of the local structure entropy. When the value of $q$ is equal to 0, the nonextensive local structure entropy is degenerated to a new form of the degree centrality. When the value of $q$ is equal to 1, the nonextensive local structure entropy is degenerated to the existing form of the local structure entropy. We also have find a nonextensive threshold value in the nonextensive local structure entropy. When the value of $q$ is bigger than the nonextensive threshold value, change the value of $q$ will has no influence on the property of the local structure entropy, and different complex networks have different nonextensive threshold value. The results in this paper show that the new nonextensive local structure entropy is a generalised of the local structure entropy. It is more reasonable and useful than the existing one.

The neuro--muscular activity while working on laparoscopic trainer is the example of the complex (and complicated) movement. This class of problems are still waiting for the proper theory which will be able to describe the actual properties of the muscle performance. Here we consider the signals obtained from three states of muscle activity: at maximum contraction, during complex movements (at actual work) and in the completely relaxed state. In addition the difference between a professional and an amateur is presented. The Multifractal Detrended Fluctuation Analysis was used in description of the properties the kinesiological surface electromyographic signals (sEMG). Based on the results obtained in the form of multifractal spectra together with the parameters which effectively describes it, like the spectrum half--width, or the Hurst or the singularity exponents, we demonstrate the dissimilarity between each state of work for the selected group of muscles as well as between trained and untrained individuals. For the well-trained person (professional) at work mf-spectrum shows similarity with the relaxed state, i.e. the spectrum will be truncated at the right side which show the dominance of the low fluctuations. On the contrary the spectrum for the untrained person at actual work will tend to be rather broad and symmetric. This feature hidden in the sEMG fluctuations allows for the determination of the level of training not only in the case of surgeons but also opens a possibility for similar analysis in any other complex motion with the use of the noninvasive surface electromyography.

Network analysis was used to study the structure and time evolution of driven three-dimensional complex plasma clusters. The clusters were created by suspending micron-size particles in a glass box placed on top of the rf electrode in a capacitively coupled discharge. The particles were highly charged and manipulated by an external electric field that had a constant magnitude and uniformly rotated in the horizontal plane. Depending on the frequency of the applied electric field, the clusters rotated in the direction of the electric field or remained stationary. The positions of all particles were measured using stereoscopic digital in-line holography. The network analysis revealed the interplay between two competing symmetries in the cluster. The rotating cluster was shown to be more cylindrical than the nonrotating cluster. The emergence of vertical strings of particles was also confirmed.

Network analysis was used to study the structure and time evolution of driven three-dimensional complex plasma clusters. The clusters were created by suspending micron-size particles in a glass box placed on top of the rf electrode in a capacitively coupled discharge. The particles were highly charged and manipulated by an external electric field that had a constant magnitude and uniformly rotated in the horizontal plane. Depending on the frequency of the applied electric field, the clusters rotated in the direction of the electric field or remained stationary. The positions of all particles were measured using stereoscopic digital in-line holography. The network analysis revealed the interplay between two competing symmetries in the cluster. The rotating cluster was shown to be more cylindrical than the nonrotating cluster. The emergence of vertical strings of particles was also confirmed.

Network analysis was used to study the structure and time evolution of driven three-dimensional complex plasma clusters. The clusters were created by suspending micron-size particles in a glass box placed on top of the rf electrode in a capacitively coupled discharge. The particles were highly charged and manipulated by an external electric field that had a constant magnitude and uniformly rotated in the horizontal plane. Depending on the frequency of the applied electric field, the clusters rotated in the direction of the electric field or remained stationary. The positions of all particles were measured using stereoscopic digital in-line holography. The network analysis revealed the interplay between two competing symmetries in the cluster. The rotating cluster was shown to be more cylindrical than the nonrotating cluster. The emergence of vertical strings of particles was also confirmed.

...a study to determine the feasibility of a mixed-use development project that includes an arts complex on parcel 4, the co-called "Hinge Block" of downtown Boston's Park Plaza Urban Renewal Area; includes discussion of the development concept, the site, market trends, development evaluations and summary of development concept; also discusses multi-family housing, retail opportunities, transient housing, and office building opportunities with staitstical data relating to each; appendix contains a copy of New York City's zoning code creating a special theater district; a copy of this item was in the BRA collection..

...a study to determine the feasibility of a mixed-use development project that includes an arts complex on parcel 4, the co-called "Hinge Block" of downtown Boston's Park Plaza Urban Renewal Area; includes discussion of the development concept, the site, market trends, development evaluations and summary of development concept; also discusses multi-family housing, retail opportunities, transient housing, and office building opportunities with staitstical data relating to each; appendix contains a copy of New York City's zoning code creating a special theater district; a copy of this item was in the BRA collection..

During the October 7th 2023 conflict, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Genomic Center for Casualties Identification quickly mobilized to enhance its capabilities. By implementing rapid DNA technology and improving sample prior-itization, the lab significantly reduced the time required for casualties’ identification. We present data collected during the IDF ground operation and our findings to enable the successful management of complex forensic events. We have learned that each casualty event is defined by a predetermined set of sample types. Additionally, complex events are mainly fragmentation incidents, requiring management of a high volume of samples in short time. STR based DNA fingerprinting has been used for casualty identification in traditional kits and by newly developed RAPID DNA technologies. Surprisingly, while RAPID DNA technology allows casualty identification in under 3 hours, the primary determinant of identification speed is accurate samples prioritization. We finally propose a management system composed of sample periodization and RAPID DNA technology to deal with complex casualty events. This combination achieved total casualty identification time reduction to 2–3 hours also in complex events.

During the October 7th 2023 conflict, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Genomic Center for Casualties Identification quickly mobilized to enhance its capabilities. By implementing rapid DNA technology and improving sample prior-itization, the lab significantly reduced the time required for casualties’ identification. We present data collected during the IDF ground operation and our findings to enable the successful management of complex forensic events. We have learned that each casualty event is defined by a predetermined set of sample types. Additionally, complex events are mainly fragmentation incidents, requiring management of a high volume of samples in short time. STR based DNA fingerprinting has been used for casualty identification in traditional kits and by newly developed RAPID DNA technologies. Surprisingly, while RAPID DNA technology allows casualty identification in under 3 hours, the primary determinant of identification speed is accurate samples prioritization. We finally propose a management system composed of sample periodization and RAPID DNA technology to deal with complex casualty events. This combination achieved total casualty identification time reduction to 2–3 hours also in complex events.

During the October 7th 2023 conflict, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Genomic Center for Casualties Identification quickly mobilized to enhance its capabilities. By implementing rapid DNA technology and improving sample prior-itization, the lab significantly reduced the time required for casualties’ identification. We present data collected during the IDF ground operation and our findings to enable the successful management of complex forensic events. We have learned that each casualty event is defined by a predetermined set of sample types. Additionally, complex events are mainly fragmentation incidents, requiring management of a high volume of samples in short time. STR based DNA fingerprinting has been used for casualty identification in traditional kits and by newly developed RAPID DNA technologies. Surprisingly, while RAPID DNA technology allows casualty identification in under 3 hours, the primary determinant of identification speed is accurate samples prioritization. We finally propose a management system composed of sample periodization and RAPID DNA technology to deal with complex casualty events. This combination achieved total casualty identification time reduction to 2–3 hours also in complex events.

The subjective transfer function (STF) approach, a new procedure for analyzing complex systems that involve numerous cause and effect relationships among the system components, is described. A tactical air command and control and force employment system is used to illustrate measurement problems found with other procedures commonly used in complex system analyses and their resolutions in the STF approach. In the STF approach, systems 'experts' are involved in defining the complex system components and constructing their network of cause and effect relationships. Each hypothesized relationship is transformed into an STF that specifies how described components affect judged outcomes. The STFs are tested by using proper experimental designs in generating questionnaires that are given to 'experts.' Decisions are then made about the appropriateness of the initially hypothesized system components and the form of the STF. Appropriate STFs are used to assess how changes in the system affect system outcomes. (AUTHOR)

The Iron Hill carbonatite-alkalic igneous rock complex is in the Powderhorn mining district, approximately 40 km south-southwest of Gunnison, Colorado. The complex, which occupies about 30 sq km, was emplaced in metasedimentay and metavolcanic rocks during the later Precambrian or early Cambrian. The main rock types in the complex, from oldest to youngest, are fenite, pyroxenite, uncompahgrite, ijolite, nepheline syenite, and dolomitic carbonatite. The carbonatite is limonitic and forms an elliptially shaped 4 sq km stock. Calcitic and dolomitic carbonatite dikes are also numerous throughout the complex and in the pre-existing rocks. Pyroxenite is the most widespread rock type within the complex, but pyroxene is extensively altered to biotite, phlogopite, and vermiculite. Fenite, which formed through Na, K-metasomatism of the country rocks, typically contains more feldspar and less quartz than the equivalent unaltered country rocks. The other alkalic rock types are less widespread and less well exposed. Parts of the complex are covered by Oligocene ash-flow tuff and alluvial, colluvial, and glacial deposits. Sagebrush and grass cover is moderately dense to very dense at low to intermediate elevations; coniferous tree cover is dense at high elevations and on some north-facing slopes at lower elevations. A new algorithm was used to compute spectral emissivity ratios, independent of any emissivity assumptions. This algorithm has the advantage that any of the possible emissivity ratios can be computed and, thus, a large variety of composite ratio images can be constructed, which permits examination of various geologic hypotheses based on the spectral properties of the surface materials.

The Iron Hill carbonatite-alkalic igneous rock complex is in the Powderhorn mining district, approximately 40 km south-southwest of Gunnison, Colorado. The complex, which occupies about 30 sq km, was emplaced in metasedimentay and metavolcanic rocks during the later Precambrian or early Cambrian. The main rock types in the complex, from oldest to youngest, are fenite, pyroxenite, uncompahgrite, ijolite, nepheline syenite, and dolomitic carbonatite. The carbonatite is limonitic and forms an elliptially shaped 4 sq km stock. Calcitic and dolomitic carbonatite dikes are also numerous throughout the complex and in the pre-existing rocks. Pyroxenite is the most widespread rock type within the complex, but pyroxene is extensively altered to biotite, phlogopite, and vermiculite. Fenite, which formed through Na, K-metasomatism of the country rocks, typically contains more feldspar and less quartz than the equivalent unaltered country rocks. The other alkalic rock types are less widespread and less well exposed. Parts of the complex are covered by Oligocene ash-flow tuff and alluvial, colluvial, and glacial deposits. Sagebrush and grass cover is moderately dense to very dense at low to intermediate elevations; coniferous tree cover is dense at high elevations and on some north-facing slopes at lower elevations. A new algorithm was used to compute spectral emissivity ratios, independent of any emissivity assumptions. This algorithm has the advantage that any of the possible emissivity ratios can be computed and, thus, a large variety of composite ratio images can be constructed, which permits examination of various geologic hypotheses based on the spectral properties of the surface materials.

No Description

We state several equivalent noncommutative versions of the Cauchy-Riemann equations and characterize the unbounded operators on L^2(R) which satisfy them. These operators arise from the creation operator via a functional calculus involving a class of entire functions, identified by Newman and Shapiro [D. J. Newman and H. S. Shapiro, Fischer spaces of entire functions, in Entire Functions and Related Parts of Analysis (J. Koorevaar, ed.), AMS Proc. Symp. Pure Math. XI (1968), 360-369], which act as unbounded multiplication operators on Bargmann-Segal space.

We have examined some of the issues involved in automating exploratory data analysis, in particular the tradeoff between control and opportunism. We have proposed an opportunistic planning solution for this tradeoff, and we have implemented a prototype, Igor, to test the approach. Our experience in developing Igor was surprisingly smooth. In contrast to earlier versions that relied on rule representation, it was straightforward to increment Igor's knowledge base without causing the search space to explode. The planning representation appears to be both general and powerful, with high level strategic knowledge provided by goals and plans, and the hooks for domain-specific knowledge are provided by monitors and focusing heuristics.

Independent component analysis (ICA) has proven useful for modeling brain and electroencephalographic (EEG) data. Here, we present a new, generalized method to better capture the dynamics of brain signals than previous ICA algorithms. We regard EEG sources as eliciting spatio-temporal activity patterns, corresponding to, e.g., trajectories of activation propagating across cortex. This leads to a model of convolutive signal superposition, in contrast with the commonly used instantaneous mixing model. In the frequency-domain, convolutive mixing is equivalent to multiplicative mixing of complex signal sources within distinct spectral bands. We decompose the recorded spectral-domain signals into independent components by a complex infomax ICA algorithm. First results from a visual attention EEG experiment exhibit (1) sources of spatio-temporal dynamics in the data, (2) links to subject behavior, (3) sources with a limited spectral extent, and (4) a higher degree of independence compared to sources derived by standard ICA.

Long duration and complex mission scenarios are characteristics of NASA's human exploration of Mars, and will provide unprecedented challenges. Systems reliability and safety will become increasingly demanding and management of uncertainty will be increasingly important. NASA's current pioneering strategy recognizes and relies upon assurance of crew and asset safety. In this regard, flexibility to develop and innovate in the emergence of new design environments and methodologies, encompassing modeling of complex systems, is essential to meet the challenges.

This paper discusses particle production in Schwarzchild-like spacetimes and in an uniform electric field. Both problems are approached using the method of complex path analysis. Particle production in Schwarzchild-like spacetimes with a horizon is obtained here by a new and simple semi-classical method based on the method of complex paths. Hawking radiation is obtained in the (t,r) co-ordinate system of the standard Schwarzchild metric {\it without} requiring the Kruskal extension. The co-ordinate singularity present at the horizon manifests itself as a singularity in the expression for the semi-classical propagator for a scalar field. We give a prescription whereby this singularity is regularised with Hawking's result being recovered. In the case of the electric field, standard quantum field theoretic methods can be used to obtain particle production in a purely time-dependent gauge. In a purely space-dependent gauge, however, the tunnelling interpretation has to be resorted to. We attempt, in this paper, to provide a tunnelling description for both the time and space dependent gauges. The usefulness of such a common description becomes evident when `mixed' gauges, which are functions of both space and time variables, are analysed. We report, in this paper, certain mixed gauges which have the interesting property that mode functions in these gauges are found to be a combination of {\it elementary} functions unlike the standard modes. Finally, we present an attempt to interpret particle production by the electric field as a tunnelling process between the two sectors of the Rindler spacetime.

Both applied and conceptual experiments based on Skinner's theory of verbal behavior have led to significant benefits for: (a) persons with language disorders and delays, (b) students who need to bridge the achievement gap, (c) professionals who work with students, and (d) individuals who wish to design functional curricula and pedagogy to meet international educational standards. In our efforts to develop schools that provided an evidence-based education that was comprehensive in scope, we needed to address complex curricular goals that could be addressed scientifically only by drawing on Skinner's theory. This need then led to the conduct of over 40 experiments on Skinner's theory leading to procedures that filled many of the gaps needed to provide a total educational experience based entirely on scientifically derived procedures and curricula. We discuss the individual and cumulative findings of this research program (from dissertations, published papers, and papers in the publication process) including procedures for individuals for whom existing procedures were not effective. Procedures were identified for: (a) inducing speech and communicative "functions" for persons with autism and developmental disabilities, (b) replacing faulty speech with effective communication, (c) teaching self-editing and self-management repertoires for functionally effective writing, and (d) teaching complex problem solving repertoires to professionals such that stronger treatment and educational outcomes resulted for a variety of learners. Finally, we describe how these findings and recent research in multiple exemplar instructional histories suggest procedures for teaching generative forms and functions of verbal behavior building on Skinner's work and the role of multiple exemplar instructional histories. (Contains 1 table.)

According to Dijkgraaf and Vafa the effective glueball superpotential of the N=1 supersymmetric QCD coupled with an adjoint chiral multiplet is given by the planar amplitude in the 1/N expansion of a matrix model. It was shown that, when the N=1 supersymmetric QCD is coupled with fundamental chiral multiplets as well, the effective glueball superpotential is modified by the disc amplitude of the generalized matrix model. The diagramatic computation of this disc amplitude is fairly involved for the multi-cut solution. Instead we compute it with recourse to the complex analysis of the hyperelliptic curve. The result is given in series of the gluino condensation S_i. The explicit computation for the generic multi-cut solution is done up to order S^3. It is systematic so that it can be extended to higher orders.

Let $Q$ be a first-order differential operator on a compact, smooth oriented Riemannian manifold with smooth boundary. Then, Friedrichs' extension lemma states that the minimal closed extension $Q_{min}$ (the closure of the graph) and the maximal closed extension $Q_{max}$ (in the sense of distributions) of $Q$ in $L^p$-spaces ($1\leq p

We apply random matrix theory to complex networks. We show that nearest neighbor spacing distribution of the eigenvalues of the adjacency matrices of various model networks, namely scale-free, small-world and random networks follow universal Gaussian orthogonal ensemble statistics of random matrix theory. Secondly we show an analogy between the onset of small-world behavior, quantified by the structural properties of networks, and the transition from Poisson to Gaussian orthogonal ensemble statistics, quantified by Brody parameter characterizing a spectral property. We also present our analysis for a protein-protein interaction network in budding yeast.

Complex analysis that deals with complex functions