Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Study on Bump Arrangement to Accelerate the Underfill Flow in Flip-Chip Packaging

Flip-chip packaging is an integrated circuit packaging technique that uses solder bumps to connect chip with substrate. The underfill process uses epoxy encapsulant to solve this problem and improves the reliability of flip-chip packaging. The encapsulant is filled into the gap between the chip and substrate by the capillary force so that the thermal stresses may disperse into the underfill materials to avoid crack generation. The filling time in the underfill process strongly depends on the arrangement of the solder bumps. The edge effect can enhance the filling speed during the underfill encapsulation if the void formation can be avoided. With distributed bump pitch design, the filling time of the underfill can be reduced. There exists an optimal selection of the pitch variation during the use of distributed bump pitch. Another method of using a center bump-free channel can also increase the filling efficiency. The optimization method is used to determine the size of the channel that is found to increase the filling speed dramatically in the case of underfill of the chip with a fine bump pitch.
THE EFFECTS OF A DIALYSIS SOLUTION WITH A COMBINATION OF GLYCEROL/AMINO ACIDS/DEXTROSE ON THE PERITONEAL MEMBRANE IN CHRONIC RENAL FAILURE

♦ Background: Long-term peritoneal dialysis (PD) with conventional glucose based, lactate-buffered PD fluids may lead to morphological and functional alterations of the peritoneal membrane. It was hypothesized that long-term exposure to a different buffer and a mixture of osmotic agents would cause less peritoneal abnormality. ♦ Objectives: To investigate the effects of long-term exposure to a bicarbonate/lactate-buffered dialysis solution with a mixture of osmotic agents: glycerol 1.4%, amino acids 0.5%, and dextrose 1.1% (= 1% glucose) (GLAD) in a rat model with chronic kidney failure. ♦ Methods: All rats underwent a peritoneal catheter implantation and a 70% nephrectomy. Thereafter, the rats were randomly divided into 3 groups: GLAD, 3.86% Dianeal (Baxter, Nivelles, Belgium), and buffer (Physioneal without glucose, Baxter). All rats were infused daily for 16 weeks with the appropriate PD fluid. Afterwards, a peritoneal permeability analysis (SPARa) was performed using 3.86% Physioneal in all groups. After the SPARa, the rats were sacrificed to obtain tissue samples for morphometric determinations. Omental tissue was stained with picro Sirius red for assessment of fibrosis and with CD31 for vessel density. ♦ Results: GLAD and Dianeal showed faster small solute transport compared to the hypotonic buffer. No differences between the groups were present in ultrafiltration. Dianeal had the lowest value for free water transport and the highest protein clearances. Total triglyceride in plasma was not different between GLAD and the buffer. Vessel density after GLAD exposure (20 V/F) was very similar to the value found for the buffer solution (17 V/F); Dianeal caused a significantly higher value (35 V/F, p < 0.01). Also, the amount of fibrosis was higher in the Dianeal-exposed rats (p < 0.01). ♦ Conclusion: Both hypertonic dialysis solutions increased peritoneal solute transport. GLAD exposure was associated with the best preservation of peritoneal morphology. The results of GLAD were very similar to those of the bicarbonate/lactate-buffered solution without osmotic agents. Studies in humans are needed for further assessment of GLAD.
DOES EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AFFECT INVESTMENT

Investment decisions require trading off current expenditures against future revenues. If revenues extend far enough into the future, the executives responsible for designing long-run investment policy may no longer be in office by the time all the revenues are realized. We present evidence that: (1) on average, executives are close to leaving office (relative to the payout period of many investments); (2) bonuses based on accounting earnings constitute an important part of compensation for the typical executive; and (3) executives respond in predictable ways to compensation plans based on accounting measures of earnings. Based on these facts, we hypothesize that existing compensation policy induces executives to reduce investments during their last years in office. In our empirical work, however, we find that investment expenditures on research and development and on advertising tend to be largest in the final years of a CEO's time in office. We offer several possible explanations for this surprising finding
The Cyclical Behavior of Labor Force Participation

We document that labor force participation declines in the short run following a positive technology shock. The countercyclical response of labor force participation to a technology shock contrasts with the well documented mild procyclical behavior of labor force participation in the business cycle. In a search model of the labor market that incorporates a participation choice, we show that a positive technology shock reduces labor force participation in the short run under a reasonable calibration. In the calibrated model, discount factor shocks induce a procyclical response of labor force participation. As a result, the model can generate both the countercyclical response to technology shocks and the procyclical behavior, consistent with the evidence. Our results indicate an important role of nontechnology shocks for explaining labor market fluctuations.
Intraspecific Variation of Biological Activities in Venoms from Wild and Captive Bothrops jararaca

The venom of Bothrops jararaca is composed of complex mixture of molecules, mainly lectins, metalloproteinases, serinoproteinases, desintegrins, phospholipases, and peptides. This composition may vary according to the snake's age, gender, and region of origin. The aim of the was to determine individual variation in Bothrops jararaca venom in the Botucatu region, Sao Paulo State, Brazil, by means of enzymatic, biochemical, and pharmacological characterization, utilizing in vitro tests and biological assays. The activities were compared with those of Brazilian Reference Venom (BRV). Protein concentration varied between adult and juvenile groups. The electrophoretic profiles were similar, with molecular masses ranging between 25 and 50 kD, but with intraspecific variations. Reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) revealed protein concentration differences. Coagulant activity did not differ significantly among adult groups, but there was a large variation between juvenile venom and BRV, which coagulated more extensively. Venoms from adults displayed greater hemorrhagic activity, especially in males recently obtained from the wild. In contrast, juveniles kept in captivity and adult males showed higher values. Edematogenic activity displayed an increase in edema in all groups. At the mean lethal dose (LD50), toxicity varied significantly between groups, with venom from captive females being threefold more toxic than juvenile venom. Data illustrate the intra- and interspecific complexity that occurs in snake venoms, which may be attributed to ontogenetic, sexual, and environmental factors that affect variability in Bothrops jararaca venom. Further, it is proposed that Brazilian public health authorities document the constitution of pooled venom employed in the immunization of serum-producing animals due to this variability in venom properties. Given the large Brazilian territory, this variability requires regional monitoring and evaluation of the efficacy of bothropic antivenom in treatment of snakebite and consequent permanent sequelae observed.
THE RELEVANCE OF TEACHER EDUCATION AS A TRAJECTORY IN DEVELOPING AND SUSTAINING INCLUSIVITY IN THE DIGITAL CLASSROOM

All human developmental requirements are cultivated by an effective education system, adapting and embracing technological invention and advancement. Education and teachers are cornerstones to all human development. This research seek to find out, the role teacher education (TE) can play in promoting and cultivating a culture of technology designing, invention, digital utilisation as a necessity for African socio-economic transformation. However, not possible without an inclusive science oriented education system embracing contemporary techno-digital teaching-learning approaches. Also, seek to examine possible suggestions on how TE curriculum can improve grooming digitalised products, historically not achieved and in some cases still not achieved. Literature reviewed indicated effective TE as one of the most crucial basics for cultivating digital inclusivity, a techno-oriented education culture, yet current TE in most African countries has been criticised for not producing innovative, competent teachers with adequately relevant techno-digital skills to inculcate students’ 21 st century and future science diverse needs. Data analysis indicated that TE face challenges in embracing techno-digital teaching approaches remaining traditional, focusing on chalk-talk-approaches and setting an incorrect precedent. The qualitative ‘analytical model of constant comparison’ was used in gathering and analysing data. The major conclusion to this research was based on the argument that, if TE institutes include techno-digital courses its product are likely to pursue, follow and cultivate a sustainable scientific culture in schools for both immediate and future ends. The research recommended introduction of sciences for all, at all learning levels, inclusion of compulsory technology, media and design innovative pedagogies course in TE. Article visualizations:
Discussions on science curriculum : stories told from northern places

This thesis outlines some of the issues raised in approaching a culturally-relevant science curriculum. This research was undertaken conjunction with the Champagne and Aishihlk First Nations and local high school students. The students and I engaged in conversations around science, culture, and education with the intent of informing curriculum planners and educators of the issues facing First Nations youth in the Yukon. Present approaches to education and the nature of school science are discussed as well as the possibility and appropriateness of merging First Nations Knowledge with school science. Comments by students revealed they would like to see a cultural approach taken through science education that bears a stronger c o n n e w to their lives outside of the school setting. Table of
Impact of the Alcohol‐Dehydrogenase (ADH) 1C and ADH1B polymorphisms on drinking behavior in nonalcoholic Japanese

A linkage disequilibrium (LD) between the alcohol‐dehydrogenase 1B (ADH1B) and alcohol‐dehydrogenase 1C (ADH1C) polymorphisms adds complexity to differentiating the significance of these two genetic polymorphisms on drinking behavior and alcoholism. We have recently shown the importance of the ADH1B polymorphism on habitual drinking in the Japanese population; however, the issue regarding the LD between the ADH1B and ADH1C polymorphisms remains to be clarified. Here, we conducted a cross‐sectional study in 2,299 nonalcoholic Japanese individuals. Drinking behavior was examined with regard to haplotypes of the ADH1B and ADH1C polymorphisms. Strength of association was assessed by sex and aldehyde‐dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2) adjusted odds ratios (OR) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the haplotype of the ADH1B and ADH1C polymorphisms. The ORs for habitual drinking were significant for ADH1B*2(rapid)‐ADH1C*2(slow) (OR = 1.03; 95% CI: 1.01–1.05), ADH1B*1(slow)‐ADH1C*1(rapid) (OR = 1.15; 95% CI: 1.14–1.16), and ADH1B*1(slow)‐ADH1C*2(slow) (OR = 1.31; 95% CI: 1.29–1.32) compared with ADH1B*2(rapid)‐ADH1C*1(rapid). This trend was evident among males. Similarly, a significantly increased risk of heavy drinking was observed for each haplotype compared with ADH1B*2(rapid)‐ADH1C*1(rapid). In conclusion, this study showed a significant impact of the ADH1C polymorphism on habitual drinking, regardless of the ADH1B/ALDH2 polymorphisms. Hum Mutat 28(5), 506–510, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The impact of acne: a study of adolescents' attitudes, perception and knowledge.

AIM To assess adolescent students' attitudes to, perceptions and knowledge of acne and to assess the effect of acne on daily living. METHOD Students from Auckland sixth and seventh form classes were selected from ten Auckland secondary schools using a randomisation process which ensured proportional representation by socioeconomic group and gender. Eight hundred and forty-seven students completed a written questionnaire on the subject of acne vulgaris and had their acne examined. Their acne was graded using a modification of the Leeds system which determines severity on the basis of number, extent and nature of the skin lesions. RESULTS Acne was present in 91% of males and 79% of females. Students' perceptions of the severity of their acne were significantly related to objective clinical assessment (p=0.00001). Severity of acne determined the extent of embarrassment (p<0.00001) and the lack of enjoyment of and participation in social activities (p<0.00002). These analyses were significant for both males and females. Students had misconceptions regarding the causes of acne. Parental occupation and ethnic group were related to knowledge of treatment for acne. CONCLUSION Acne causes personal and social difficulties for a large number of adolescent students. There is a need for all students to have access to appropriate information and health services so that the social and psychological consequences of acne are minimised.
Improved winding loss theoratical calculation of magnetic component with air-gap

For inductors, such as DC chokes, PFC inductors, resonant inductors and fly-back transformers, magnetic field distributions in winding windows are extremely complex due to the air-gap fringing effects in the core. Existing high-frequency winding loss calculation method usually ignores the fringing effect losses caused by air-gap fringing fluxes, resulting much errors for winding loss analysis and loss reduction designs. In this paper, an improved winding loss theoretical calculation method of gapped inductor is proposed. By replacing the air-gap magnetic voltage drop with equivalent surface current sheet with certain shape and certain current density distribution near the air-gap, the winding loss accuracies were improved. And then mirror-image method was used to equivalent the influence of the boundaries of high permeability magnetic core. The mirror image method was extended to dual 2D model approximation of 3D model.
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Prevents Paralysis and Motoneuron Death in a Rat Model of Excitotoxic Spinal Cord Neurodegeneration

Abstract Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) delays disease onset and progression in transgenic rodent models of familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Because most cases of ALS are sporadic, it is important to determine whether VEGF can protect motoneurons in a nontransgenic ALS paradigm. We tested this possibility in a new model of chronic excitotoxic spinal neurodegeneration in the rat. Using osmotic minipumps, we continuously infused the glutamate receptor agonist α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionate (AMPA) directly in the lumbar spinal cord. The effect of this treatment on motor behavior was assessed with 3 motor performance tests, and neurodegeneration was evaluated by histologic and immunohistochemical analyses. AMPA infusion produced dose-dependent progressive hindlimb motor deficits, reaching complete bilateral paralysis in ∼10 days, which was correlated with the loss of spinal motoneurons. VEGF administered together with AMPA completely prevented the motor deficits, and the motoneuron death was reduced by more than 75%. Thus, we have developed an in vivo model of progressive spinal motoneuron death due to overactivation of AMPA receptors. The finding that VEGF protected motoneurons from this AMPA receptor-mediated excitotoxic death suggests that it may be a therapeutic agent in sporadic ALS.
Stock market reactions to monetary policy shocks

It is important for both the monetary policy makers and investors to understand the impact of monetary policy shocks to real asset prices. This paper used the event-study method to test the intraday effects of monetary policy shocks on Australian stock market return in different dimension. The results show that a 25-basis-point rate cut target surprise is associated with 0.62% to 0.7% increase to the whole Australian stock market index. The results of industry indexes show that the industry indexes react differently to monetary policy shocks and path surprise is never significant in all event windows. This paper also tested the speed of stock market reacting to monetary policy shocks. The results suggest that all stock market indexes stop reacting to monetary policy shock after 90 to 120 minutes the monetary policy decision is announced. Lastly, the study of individual stocks shows that the size and market to book ratio factors do not affect magnitude of individual stock reaction to monetary policy shock.
Simulation optimization: A panel on the state of the art in research and practice

The goal of this panel was to discuss the state of the art in simulation optimization research and practice. The participants included representation from both academia and industry, where the latter was represented by participation from a leading software provider of optimization tools for simulation. This paper begins with a short introduction to simulation optimization, and then presents a list of specific questions that served as a basis for discussion during the panel discussion. Each of the panelists was given an opportunity to provide their preliminary thoughts on simulation optimization for this paper, and the remainder of the paper summarizes those points, ranging from assessments of the field from their perspective to initial reactions to some of the posed questions. Finally, one of the panelists who has worked on an online testbed of simulation optimization problems for the research community was asked to provide an update of the status of the Web site.
MORE THAN THEY REALIZE

Income realized for tax or survey purposes usually understates economic income for the wealthy because capital income recognition is often voluntary. Using estate tax returns filed in 2007 linked with income tax returns from 2002 to 2006, we find realized returns to capital for most wealthy individuals are less than 2 percent, with the richest filers reporting the lowest returns. Because of tax preferences, taxable returns are even smaller than reported returns. Consequently, studies relying upon realized income tend to overstate tax progressivity, understate income inequality, and miscalculate the distribution of wealth when derived through income-capitalization techniques.
Do parents' and children's concerns about sports safety and injury risk relate to how much physical activity children do?

Objective To see whether concerns about injury risk relate to children's physical activity (PA). Methods Two cohorts were recruited from 19 Australian schools and assessed in 2001 (T1), 2004 (T2) and 2006 (T3). The younger (n=162) was assessed at 6, 9 and 11years old, and the older (n=259) at 11, 14 and 16 years old. At T1 and T2, parents of the younger cohort reported on fear of child being injured, and whether child would be at risk of injury if they played organised sport; the older cohort self-reported injury fear. Accelerometers assessed PA at each time point. Linear regression models examined cross-sectional associations, and also associations between T1 injury fear and risk and T2 PA, and T2 injury fear and risk and T3 PA. Results In the younger cohort at T2 (9 years), fear and risk were both negatively associated with moderate to vigorous PA (MVPA) (β=−0.17, 95% CI −0.30 to −0.03 and β=−0.26, 95% CI −0.41 to −0.10) and also vigorous PA (VPA). Fear was also associated with moderate PA (MPA). For the older cohort at T1, injury fear was negatively associated with MVPA (β=−0.21, 95% CI −0.35 to −0.07) and also MPA and VPA. Parental perception of risk at T1 (6 years) was negatively associated with children's MPA at T2 (9 years) (β=−0.17, 95% CI −0.32 to −0.02). Sex did not moderate any association. Conclusions Younger children and their parents need to know which sports have low injury risks. Some children may need increased confidence to participate.
Induction of mammary gland hyperplasia and carcinomas in transgenic mice expressing human cyclin E

Deregulated expression of several cell cycle regulatory genes has been demonstrated to be associated with cancer. In particular, a strong correlation has been established between inappropriate cyclin E expression and human breast cancer. To determine the ability of cyclin E to play a causative role in mammary tumorigenesis, regulatory sequences from the ovine beta-lactoglobulin gene were utilized to specifically target expression of human cyclin E to the mammary glands of pregnant and lactating mice. Lactating mammary glands of transgenic mice expressing cyclin E contained areas of hyperplasia, primarily papillary projections of hyperplastic cells, which were rarely observed in lactating glands of control mice. Over 10% of female cyclin E transgenic mice have developed mammary carcinomas, with latencies ranging from 8 to 13 months. Tumor analysis revealed the presence of transgene-specific cyclin E RNA and protein, as well as cyclin E- and cdk2-associated kinase activity, suggesting that cyclin E is likely a contributing component of tumorigenic progression in this model system.
A cluster-based multichannel MAC protocol for throughput sensitive applications in VANETs

The IEEE 1609.4 protocol adopts the alternating channel access mechanism, in which the synchronization interval is separated into control channel interval and service channel interval. The vehicles can only exchange the control information in control channel interval and the service information in service channel interval separately, but the wireless resource could not be used efficiently. In this paper, we introduce the concept of cluster and propose a new mechanism based on TDMA. In our scheme, vehicles are grouped into clusters and each cluster elects a cluster head as the dedicated central controller of the cluster. The cluster head is responsible to consolidate, forward the message sent by the cluster members and schedule transmission slots for them, thus the cluster members can use the control channel interval for service traffic and efficiently improve the throughput of non-safety message. The simulation results show that the proposed MAC protocol achieves higher packet deliver ratio and throughput for the service data.