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In this study, it was aimed to examine the effects of milk feeding frequency on the growth, behaviour and health of calves during the suckling period. The Holstein calves (5 in each group) at the age of 5-day-old were used in the study. Computer controlled feeder (CCF) was used in the study. First group calves were given 4 lt/day of milk replacer feed (G1), in the morning and evening. In the second group (G2), a maximum of 12 lt/day of milk, which is natural suckling behaviour, in the morning (05:00-08:00), midday (10:00-13:00)i evening (16:00-20:00) were allowed to consume substitute feed. The time spent for rumination by both groups was close to each other. Cross-sucking and vocalization behaviour was more common in G1, but decreased with age. Tongue Rolling behaviour was more common in G2, but decreased with age. The results showed that the milk feeding frequency did not have a significant effect on the behavioural patterns of the calves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

How do marketers process information to make new product decisions? The computer-controlled experiment described in this article was designed to explore this question. Differences in information preferences between marketing managers and marketing researchers were revealed. The results also indicated ways in which decision making in marketing might be made more effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. In this study, we describe a custom-made new epidural simulator, created by modifying the inner structure of a commercially available one, in the attempt to make it adequately realistic. To validate and evaluate the realism of our device, we used the Computerized Epidural Instrument CompuFlo. Method. The Compuflo CompuFlo curves obtained from 64 experiments on the epidural simulator were compared to 64 curves obtained from a previous human study, from consecutive laboring parturients requesting epidural analgesia. Results. Epidural simulator and human pressure curves were very similar. There was a significant difference between the drop of pressure due to false and true loss of resistance (LOR) in both the groups. Discussion. Our simulator can realistically reproduce the anatomical layers the needle must pass as demonstrated by the similarity between the simulator and human pressure curves and the small differences of pressure values recorded. CompuFlo may be used as an objective tool to create and assess and compare objectively the epidural task trainers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a need for technological reform and innovation in public transport because of the increasing number passengers. In order to ease up the problems arising from the increasing number of passengers, the number of services can be increased and the transit times between stops can be shortened, which result in drivers’ weariness and speeding leading to accidents. For that reason, the integration of technology to public transport becomes a must to prevent such accidents. This study aims to investigate “the use of computer controlled line follower robots in public transport”. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A modern method of cutting materials is the abrasive water jet cutting method. It is a method that is in full ascension regarding the level of usability in production. In order to have the adequate setup for water jet cutting on a certain system, the surface quality, the kerf aspect, the shape and respectively the form of the obtained part have to be analysed. This paper presents the results obtained after cutting one square shaped part, made of 1C45 material. In the study, there were analysed both the inside and the outside of the cut, the kerf width, the aspect of the taper and the profile deviation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Computer-controlled Bonnet Polishing (CCBP) is an enabling technology which is capable of fabricating ultra-precision freeform surfaces with sub-micrometer form accuracy and surface roughness in the nanometer range, especially for difficult-to-machine and ferrous materials. However, the material removal mechanism of computer controlled bonnet polishing (CCBP) usually exhibits multidisciplinary and multi-scale complexity and hence our understanding of the material removal characteristics is still far from complete. As a result, this paper presents a multi-scale theoretical model for the prediction and simulation of the material removal characteristics in the CCBP process. The model is established based on the study of contact mechanics, kinematics theory and wear mechanisms. A series of spot polishing tests as well as simulation experiments by the theoretical model were conducted. The predicted results agree well with the experimental data. The successful development of the theoretical model helps to make the CCBP process more predictive, and so that optimizing the manufacturing process, and forms the theoretical basis for explaining some material removal mechanisms in CCUP, such as the critical polishing depth for minimizing pad scratching. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A combinatorial pulsed laser deposition system was developed by integrating a computer controlled scanning sample stage in order to rapidly screen processing conditions relevant to CdTe/CdS thin-film solar cells. Using this system, the thickness of the CdTe absorber layer is varied across a single sample from 1.5 μm to 0.75 μm. The effects of thickness on CdTe grain morphology, crystal orientation, and cell efficiency were investigated with respect to different postprocessing conditions. It is shown that the thinner CdTe layer of 0.75 μm obtained the best power conversion efficiency up to 5.3%. The results of this work shows the importance that CdTe grain size/morphology relative to CdTe thickness has on device performance and quantitatively exhibits what those values should be to obtain efficient thin-film CdTe/CdS solar cells fabricated with pulsed laser deposition. Further development of this combinatorial approach could enable high-throughput exploration and optimization of CdTe/CdS solar cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laser post-heating computer controlled detonation spraying (CCDS) and cold spray (CS) hybrid processes were proposed for fabrication of near sub micron structure coatings of hydroxyapatite (HA) + Ti system. Optical and SEM with energy dispersive X-ray analysis and comparative XRD phase analysis were used to evaluate microstructure. After those hybrid processes, no substantial variation in HA composition was noted by structural and phase examination. Nano-sized HA powders can be recommended for laser annealing CS (LaCS) process. Regimes of laser treatment optimal for increasing the adhesion between the HA and titanium coatings, providing more strength, ductility and decreasing of HA destruction in the coatings were determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Testing of image intensifier tubes is still done using mostly manual methods due to a series of both technical and legal problems with test automation. Computerized stations for semi-automated testing of IITs are considered as novelty and are under continuous improvements. This paper presents a novel test station that enables semi-automated measurement of image intensifier tubes. Wide test capabilities and advanced design solutions rise the developed test station significantly above the current level of night vision metrology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Passive samplers deployed at 25 sites for three, week-long intervals were used to characterize spatial variability in the mass and composition of coarse particulate matter (PM 10-2.5 ) in Cleveland, OH in summer 2008. The size and composition of individual particles determined using computer-controlled scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (CCSEM-EDS) was then used to estimate PM 10-2.5 concentrations (μg m −3 ) and its components in 13 particle classes. The highest PM 10-2.5 mean mass concentrations were observed at three central industrial sites (35 μg m −3 , 43 μg m −3 , and 48 μg m −3 ), whereas substantially lower mean concentrations were observed to the west and east of this area at suburban background sites (13 μg m −3 and 15 μg m −3 ). PM 10-2.5 mass and components associated with steel and cement production (Fe-oxide and Ca-rich) exhibited substantial heterogeneity with elevated concentrations observed in the river valley, stretching from Lake Erie south through the central industrial area and in the case of Fe-oxide to a suburban valley site. Other components (e.g., Si/Al-rich typical of crustal material) were considerably less heterogeneous. This work shows that some species of coarse particles are considerably more spatially heterogeneous than others in an urban area with a strong industrial core. It also demonstrates that passive sampling coupled with analysis by CCSEM-EDS is a useful tool to assess the spatial variability of particulate pollutants by composition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Free-form fabrication techniques, often referred to as ‘3D printing’, are currently tested with regard to the processing of biological and biocompatible materials in general and for fabrication of vessel-like structures in particular. Such computer-controlled methods assemble 3D objects by layer-wise deposition or layer-wise cross-linking of materials. They use, for example, nozzle-based deposition of hydrogels and cells, drop-on-demand inkjet-printing of cell suspensions with subsequent cross-linking, layer-by-layer cross-linking of synthetic or biological polymers by selective irradiation with light and even laser-induced deposition of single cells. The need of vessel-like structures has become increasingly crucial for the supply of encapsulated cells for 3D tissue engineering, or even with regard to future application such as vascular grafts. The anticipated potential of providing tubes with tailored branching geometries made of biocompatible or biological materials pushes future visions of patient-specific vascularized tissue substitutions, tissue-engineered blood vessels and bio-based vascular grafts. We review here the early attempts of bringing together innovative free-form manufacturing processes with bio-based and biodegradable materials. The presented studies provide many important proofs of concepts such as the possibility to integrate viable cells into computer-controlled processes and the feasibility of supplying cells in a hydrogel matrix by generation of a network of perfused channels. Several impressive results in the generation of complex shapes and high-aspect-ratio tubular structures demonstrate the potential of additive assembly methods. Yet, it also becomes obvious that there remain major challenges to simultaneously match all material requirements in terms of biological functions (cell function supporting properties), physicochemical functions (mechanical properties of the printed material) and process-related (viscosity, cross-linkability) functions, towards the demanding goal of biofabricating artificial blood vessels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a concrete definition of what a Safety Instrumented System (SIS) is. This involves important concepts such as risk, safety integrity level, SIL, life cycle and protection layer. The aim of this paper is to provide readers with a concise definition of SIS. To this end, the basic elements of a SIS are defined, the relationship of risk with a SIS is presented, layers of protection are defined in a industrial process, the implementation of a SIS is justified, and the correct methodology for the implementation of a SIS is obtained, namely Lifecycle. Finally, the paper describes a mathematical method for modeling and validating a particular SIS based on standards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a rapidly increasing trend in media-media multitasking or MMM (using two or more media concurrently). In a recent conference, scholars from diverse disciplines expressed concerns that indulgence in MMM may compromise well-being and/or cognitive abilities. However, research on MMM's impacts is too sparse to inform the general public and policy makers whether MMM should be encouraged, managed, or minimized. The primary purpose of the present study was to develop an innovative computerized instrument – the Survey of the Previous Day (SPD) – to quantify MMM as well as media-nonmedia and nonmedia-nonmedia multitasking and sole-tasking. The secondary purpose was to examine whether these indices could predict a sample of well-being related, psychosocial measures. In the SPD, participants first recalled (typed) what they did during each hour of the previous day. In later parts of the SPD, participants analysed activities and their timing and duration for each hour of the previous day, while relevant recall was on display. Participants also completed the Media Use Questionnaire. The results showed non-significant relationship between tasking measures and well-being related measures. Given how little is known about the associations between MMM and well-being, the null results may offer some general reassurance to those who are apprehensive about negative impacts of MMM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The proliferation and differentiation characteristics of umbilical cord blood mononuclear cells were examined in a non-rotational suspension bioreactor with a fishtail mixer. The system consisted of a glass vessel, a mixer that moved vertically, a data acquisition and control system to continuously monitor pH, temperature and dissolved O. The bioreactor provided superior expansion of total HSCs and not total cell number, as well as expression of stemness-related genes which followed with increasing in number of colony-forming cells during 14 days of culture compared to T -lask culture. Vertical agitation thus reduces the total cell number, which may be related to increased shear stress, but has no effect on HSC function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, a novel computerized instrument has been developed to record the applied pressure exerted by medical bandages in real time. The working of novel computerized instrument is based on the pneumatic principle, which is used to obtain pressure profiles of internal pressure exerted by the bandages over a period of time. The basic idea of this work is to design an online measurement system using differential pressure transmitter and digital process controller that provides a very accurate method of measuring pressure applied by compression bandages. This work also aims to identify different parameters affecting applied pressure profile of these bandages. A series of commercially available bandages have been studied and the effects of variables, namely fabric parameters (mass per unit area of bandage, tensile properties and thickness of bandage), number of bandage wraps or folds and extent of initial internal pressure have been studied. Bases on the results, certain characteristics have been recommended for choosing the ideal bandages. The bandages with higher mass per unit area and higher warp-wise extensibility show the faster and higher drop in internal pressure over a period of time. The reduction in internal pressure is minimised by increasing number of bandage wraps or folds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acoustic resonances are observed in high-pressure discharge lamps operated with ac input modulated power frequencies in the kilohertz range. This paper describes an optical resonance detection method for high-intensity discharge lamps using computer-controlled cameras and image processing software. Experimental results showing acoustic resonances in high-pressure sodium lamps are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper presents a study of automation in the high school chemical inquiry based laboratory. Simple computer-controlled devices for automation of basic manual operations were constructed and applied in students' laboratory experiments together with the Fourier-Systems Inc. data collection and management systems. We examined characteristics of learning in the new automated laboratory environment and discussed educational outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the advance of computational techniques, computerized assessment becomes increasingly popular due to the advantages of consistency, efficiency and labour-saving. In computerized assessment, it evaluates the subject's performance based on the experts' assessment criteria and also criteria preferences, thus indicating an effort to implement expert assessment policy. The key element of developing the computerized assessment system is to measure the complexity of an expert's cognitive structures containing assessment criteria and criteria preferences. To achieve this goal, we present an intelligent cognition-based systems approach which includes three integrated parts to build the computerized assessment model. It first utilizes text-mining techniques to automatically around important meaning themes that frame as assessment criteria. Human experts' criteria preferences are then derived from the pre-assessed essays by applying a multiple-criteria decision analysis. Meanwhile, the optimal parameter set for the assessment system is determined using the genetic algorithm. To demonstrate its effectiveness, the essays of university students majoring in information management are empirically evaluated by the proposed method. The results show that the proposed method can not only effectively model expert cognitive structure but also report high classification accuracy under different assessment settings. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to test the sensitivity of computerized sperm motility analysis in the sea urchin Paracentrotus lividus as the endpoint in toxicity bioassays. The tested matrices were pore water samples collected in an agriculture-impacted Mediterranean lagoon, Lake Varano (Italy). Two standardized bioassays were also conducted as controls, the P. lividus spermiotoxicity test and the Vibrio fischeri (Microtox®) test. VCL (curvilinear velocity), VSL (straight line velocity), VAP (average path velocity), and the percentage of rapid spermatozoa recorded by the Sperm Class Analyzer® system showed high sensitivity and discrimination ability, to a degree comparable with the larval development endpoint of the spermiotoxicity test. The test evaluated in this study requires small volumes of matrices, involves minimal sample manipulation, and can easily be extended to many other bioindicator species. It may therefore be considered a promising “quick response tool” following hazardous events that may adversely affect an aquatic ecosystem. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The article presents a study which aims to determine the efficacy of computer alert on Chlamydia testing in young Australian women. The study conducted an assessment of 68 female patients with Chlamydia trachomatis in 2006 to evaluate the effect of the alert on women who were tested for Chlamydia. The results of the study reveals that the utilization of a computer alert in testing young women with Chlamydia trachomatis is a potential way to increase Chlamydia screening.

We propose an automated needle hydrophone-based scanning system to measure high-resolution 3-D acoustic pressure distributions generated by high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU). The hardware consists of a host computer, subsystems for HIFU generation, and an oscilloscope to sample the pressure response from a sensor in a water tank. Software was developed to control the hardware subsystems, to search for the initial scan position, and to design the scanning path and volume. A preoperative scanning plan with three perpendicular planes is used to manipulate the position of the HIFU transducer and to automate the acquisition of the spatial acoustic pressure distribution. The post-processing process displays the scanning results, compensates time delays caused by continuous linear scans, and quantifies the focal region. A method to minimize the displacement error induced by the time delay improves the scanning speed of a conventional needle hydrophone-based scanning system. Moreover, a noise-robust, automatic-focus searching algorithm using Gaussian function fitting reduces the total number of iterations and prevents the initial scanning position search from diverging. Finally, the minimum-volume enclosing ellipsoid approximation is used to quantify the size and orientation of the 3-D focal region thresholded by the minimum pressure of interest for various input conditions and to test the reproducibility of the scanning system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper an integrated electronic system has been designed, constructed and tested. The system utilizes an interface card through the parallel port in addition to some auxiliary circuits to perform fuzzy control operations for DC motor speed control with load and no load. Software is written using (C++ language Ver. 3.1) to display the image as control panel for different types of both conventional and fuzzy control. The main task of the software is to simulate: first, how to find out the correct parameters for fuzzy logic controller (membership's function, rules and scaling factor). Second, how to evaluate the gain factors (KP, KI and KD) by Ziegler-Nichols method. When executing any type of control process the efficiency is estimated by drawing the relative speed response for this control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract  Microscale particle image velocimetry measurements of ensemble flow fields surrounding a steadily migrating semi-infinite bubble through the novel adaptation of a computer controlled linear motor flow control system. The system was programmed to generate a square wave velocity input in order to produce accurate constant bubble propagation repeatedly and effectively through a fused glass capillary tube. We present a novel technique for re-positioning of the coordinate axis to the bubble tip frame of reference in each instantaneous field through the analysis of the sudden change of standard deviation of centerline velocity profiles across the bubble interface. Ensemble averages were then computed in this bubble tip frame of reference. Combined fluid systems of water/air, glycerol/air, and glycerol/Si-oil were used to investigate flows comparable to computational simulations described in Smith and Gaver III (J Fluid Mech 601:1–23, 2008) and to past experimental observations of interfacial shape. Fluorescent particle images were also analyzed to measure the residual film thickness trailing behind the bubble. The flow fields and film thickness agree very well with the computational simulations as well as existing experimental and analytical results. Particle accumulation and migration associated with the flow patterns near the bubble tip after long experimental durations are discussed as potential sources of error in the experimental method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper describes the computer controlled processing of AISI-O1 steel rod by a dieless drawing method. Both the operation of a purposely built machine and the results of an experimental programme are described. The machine consisted of elements to provide a drawing force, a PID controlled band heater and an air/water cooling system to carry out the novel bar production process. The untreated material in bar form of initial diameter, 5mm, was drawn in the temperature range of 600–750°C at drawing velocities of 2.5–5mm/min and with air-cooling provided in the pressure range 2–4×105 Pa. The process ratio, i.e. the ratio of the drawing velocity to the heat/cooling device movement velocity was varied between 0.35 and 1.33. A novel load-control algorithm was executed to ensure a steady-state process and a high tolerance on the final drawn diameter. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Computerized ambulatory monitoring overcomes a number of methodological and conceptual challenges to studying mental disorders, however concerns persist regarding the feasibility of this approach with severe psychiatric samples and the potential of intensive monitoring to influence data quality. This multi-site investigation evaluates these issues in four independent samples. Patients with schizophrenia (n = 56), substance dependence (n = 85), anxiety disorders (n = 45), and a non-clinical sample (n = 280) were contacted to participate in investigations using computerized ambulatory monitoring. Micro-computers were used to administer electronic interviews several times per day for a one-week period. Ninety-five percent of contacted individuals agreed to participate in the study, and minimum compliance was achieved by 96% of these participants. Seventy-eight percent of all programmed assessments were completed overall, and only 1% of micro-computers were not returned to investigators. There was no evidence that missing data or response time increased over the duration of the study, suggesting that fatigue effects were negligible. The majority of variables investigated did not change in frequency as a function of study duration, however some evidence was found that socially sensitive behaviors changed in a manner consistent with reactivity. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We studied melting and solidification points of 14 pure solvents and two ionic liquids with a recently constructed automatic computer-controlled equipment, which is able to record simultaneously temperature–time functions of up to 30 samples at very low heating and cooling rates down to 1.5K·h−1. The effects of viscosity of the studied samples and of carbon fibres as an added crystallisation aid were also investigated. Equilibrium temperatures for the solid–liquid phase transition are in accordance with literature for materials that were often checked, such as acetonitrile, showing the quality of our new equipment, whereas the value of the transition temperature of some other materials differed from published results. It is shown that both the viscosity of the material and carbon fibres as crystallisation aids have an effect on supercooling. The value given for the equilibrium point of the ionic liquid trioctylmethylammonium trifluorocetate T tr =(285.62±0.1)K is new. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This paper proposes and details a course organization methodology based on learner satisfaction achievement. The approach follows the prevailing tendency in modern university reforms which are primarily concerned about "how people learn." As a consequence, the learner has been placed as the main actor of the teaching-learning process. Nevertheless, the current learning literature has not addressed the measurement of learner satisfaction within laboratory and practical subjects. This study develops a general and comprehensive methodology for learner satisfaction measurement in practical subjects. As a case example, the proposed methodology has been applied to an electronic instrumentation and measurement course, confirming the variables with a significant influence on learner satisfaction and becoming the starting point for curriculum redesign based on the learner satisfaction approach. To assess the improvement of the proposed course organization methodology, a comparison with previous academic years has been performed showing the students' rated score evolution. Results fully confirm the validity of the technique and the novel course organization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors propose a low-power testing methodology for the scan-based built-in self-test. This approach combines a low-power test pattern generator (TPG) with scan-chain reordering to achieve low-power testing without losing fault coverage. Three main issues are addressed. First, a smoother is included in the TPG to reduce the average power consumption. However, the fault coverage may be adversely affected by the smoother; hence, a cluster-based scan-chain reordering is employed to remedy this problem. If a very-large power reduction is necessary, the fault-coverage drop can become significant. This can be addressed by reseeding. The second topic of this paper is to give a detailed analysis on the optimal cluster size to minimize the scan-chain length. Finally, a fast and efficient algorithm is developed for scan-chain reorder in order to improve the fault coverage. The reordering algorithm is very efficient in terms of computation time, and the routing length of the reordered scan chain is comparable to or smaller than the result given by commercial tools. Experimental results show that the proposed method provides a significant and consistent reduction in the average test power, and the fault coverage is similar to previous methods with the same test lengths. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the impact of a computerised pathology order entry system on laboratory turnaround times and test ordering within a teaching hospital. Methods: A controlled before and after study compared test assays ordered from 11 wards two months before (n = 97 851) and after (n = 113 762) the implementation of a computerised pathology order entry system (Cerner Millennium Powerchart). Comparisons were made of laboratory turnaround times, frequency of tests ordered and specimens taken, proportions of patients having tests, average number per patient, and percentage of gentamicin and vancomycin specimens labelled as random. Results: Intervention wards experienced an average decrease in turnaround of 15.5 minutes/test assay (range 73.8 to 58.3 minutes; p<0.001). Reductions were significant for prioritised and non-prioritised tests, and for those done within and outside business hours. There was no significant change in the average number of tests (p=0.228), or specimens per patient (p=0.324), and no change in turnaround time for the control ward (p=0.218). Use of structured order screens enhanced data provided to laboratories. Removing three test assays from the liver function order set resulted in significantly fewer of these tests being done. Conclusions: Computerised order entry systems are an important element in achieving faster test results. These systems can influence test ordering patterns through structured order screens, manipulation of order sets, and analysis of real time data to assess the impact of such changes, not possible with paper based systems. The extent to which improvements translate into improved patient outcomes remains to be determined. A potentially limiting factor is clinicians' capacity to respond to, and make use of, faster test results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses studies to minimize the time needed in performing neuropsychologic testing for evaluating mild traumatic brain injury. Neuropsychologic testing was first used in athletes in 1982. A formal neuropsychologic testing using complete batteries is costly and time consuming particularly on computerized testing. The widespread use of neuropsychologic testing is not yet recommended due to time limitations, cost, lack of validity data and logistic concerns.

Here we present the implementation and results of a numerical control system locally built and the electronic system are explained. With further detail it is explored the software used to make chess pieces, based on drawings created with any graphic designs software. Additionaly, we describe basic algorithms and concepts refering to the conversion displacement units of the system actuator, besides of the graphic interface that cases the inter-relation between the user (designer) and the CAD system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the contents of a gas chromatography method. A chromatography method consists of three major parts including sample preparation, component separation and data handling. A chromatography method should capture a snapshot of all the information that would be necessary to recreate the analysis at a later date. There will always be instrument dependent disparities in the contents of a method. Different instruments are controlled in different ways, and there is imperfect cross-model uniformity in the name, number, range and function of many instrument parameters. Modern data systems have the capability to provide much of the information and store it in appropriate places.

Background: CDSS (computerized decision support system) for medical diagnostics have been studied for long. This study was undertaken to investigate how different preferences of Learning Styles (LS) of psychiatrists might affect acceptance, use and perceived usefulness of a CDSS for diagnostics in psychiatry. Methods: 49 psychiatrists (specialists and non-specialists) from 3 different clinics volunteered to participate in this study and to use the CDSS to diagnose a paper-based case (based on a real patient). LS, attitudes to CDSS and complementary data were obtained via questionnaires and interviews. To facilitate the study, a special version of the CDSS was created, which automatically could log interaction details. Results: The LS preferences (according to Kolb) of the 49 physicians turned out as follows: 37% were Assimilating, 31% Converging, 27% Accommodating and 6% Diverging. The CDSS under study seemed to favor psychiatrists with abstract conceptualization information perceiving mode (Assimilating and Converging learning styles). A correlation between learning styles preferences and computer skill was found. Positive attitude to computer-aided diagnostics and learning styles preferences was also found to correlate. Using the CDSS, the specialists produced only 1 correct diagnosis and the non-specialists 2 correct diagnoses (median values) as compared to the three predetermined correct diagnoses of the actual case. Only 10% had all three diagnoses correct, 41 % two correct, 47 % one correct and 2 % had no correct diagnose at all. Conclusion: Our results indicate that the use of CDSS does not guarantee correct diagnosis and that LS might influence the results. Future research should focus on the possibility to create systems open to individuals with different LS preferences and possibility to create CDSS adapted to the level of expertise of the user. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes the design of a phased-array driver module that provides controllable phases and magnitudes. A single driver is designed and its architecture is applied to the design of a 16-channel computer-controlled 1-Gift phased-array driver. This device is capable of varying and controlling the magnitudes and phases of its output RF signals and may be used to feed a 4 × 4 phased-array antenna. The outputs are computer controlled and accuracy is maintained by comparing feedback phase and magnitude values with pre-calibrated ones. Any desired relative phase shift may be obtained at the outputs with up to 30 dB of magnitude variation, having an accuracy of ±5° and ± 0.5 dB, respectively. This architecture may be applied to the design of larger arrays. Its feedback control techniques may be used to improve beam-steering accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In-mouth volatile release from flavoured water was followed using atmospheric pressure chemical ionization–mass spectrometry (APCI-MS) or using a hand-held, computer-controlled device based on sequential trapping of flavours on Tenax traps. The present results verify recent in vitro data obtained with a sophisticated, fully computerized mouth model apparatus and confirm its validity for the simulation of in-mouth dynamic volatile release. In-nose APCI-MS measurements showed considerable person-to-person variability in non-trained individuals during drinking due to subconscious control of muscles during swallowing and subsequent breathing. Data showed a ‘swallow breath’ volume reaching the nasal cavity from the throat, not from the mouth cavity. Flavour enriched air from the mouth was shown to be transported to the nose (via exhalation) immediately after the swallowing event, but the dynamic process of volatile equilibration between residuals of the swallowed liquid and the exhaled air predominantly determined volatile in-nose concentration. Owing to its dynamic character, the process of volatile equilibration and release in the throat upon exhalation should be similar to the in-mouth process studied in the present work. A full mechanical simulation of retronasal volatile transport, however, will remain difficult. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents a study that determined the types of access given to online databases by several private colleges and universities in Malaysia. Background of the study; Research methodology; Results of the provision of online databases, computer facilities and promotion of usage of the online databases; Conclusion of the study.

Presents a study that dealt with the metrological characterization of virtual instruments. Components and working principle of the virtual instruments; Uncertainty sources; Methods to evaluate the uncertainty of the measurement results.

Discusses an improved statistical model for the susceptibility of computerized equipment to electrical transients. Methods for estimating the mean and maximum malfunction probability in an operational cycle; Use of reinforcement algorithms to determine the maximum susceptibility; Testing for safety-related equipment and support for effective redesign.

Focuses on the computerized system used in the assessment of chronic renal failure in Great Britain. Prediction of the need for dialysis and transplantation; Rapid analysis in the prognosis of a large cohort of patients; Use of calculated creatinine clearance in the prediction.

The article examines some audit process changes that result from automation. Advances in data processing technology have created major challenges for auditors. Not only must these technological changes be assimilated into both corporate and public accounting EDP auditing units, but public accountants must also revise the way in which audits are performed on clients adopting new technology. The problems are compounded in public accounting by competition among firms for market position and audit fees. The audit firm that adapts to technological change has the potential to audit at lower cost and to convince clients and prospective clients that it possesses a relative competency advantage in audits of complex systems. Currently, computer audit techniques reflect the direct computerization of manual audit methods instead of a reanalysis and redesign of the entire audit process. This approach minimizes behavioral resistance to change but does not reap the full benefits of data processing implementation.

The article focuses on an automated system that facilitates the reviewing and regulating services to patients in long-term care facilities. The traditional practice of using hand-scored system, long-term care facilities inspected during one announced inspection each year turned to be inadequate for successful enforcement of the state's licensing standards or review of medical programs. There was a totally inadequate system of inspecting and licensing facilities. The development of the new automated system provided the facility of monitoring of the delivery of health services through a totally computerized evaluation and review process.