Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Parallel cycle-accurate SystemC kernel

As hardware designs become more and more complex, the verification process takes longer. The bottleneck of verifying the design is the long period of time it takes to run simulations and especially long meaningful tests such as full System on Chip (SoC) simulations. Although multicore processors are now widely available, most of the simulators being used in the verification process are still unable to efficiently use multicore platforms. In this research we developed and explored several techniques for efficiently distributing the design modules across multiple threads running in parallel. The focus was on implementing several approaches for parallelizing the simulator kernel and evaluating the performance of each approach. This research presents two novel techniques for improving the parallel simulator kernel: one improves the overhead of thread parallelism by exploiting hardware simulation characteristics while the other improves task threading by collecting run-time statistics out of similar simulations. The result is a shorter simulation time and higher utilization ratio of the computing resources. The implementation in the research is based on SystemCASS, which is a cycle accurate version of the SystemC simulator.
Decreased expression of β1‐integrin and focal adhesion kinase in epithelial cells may initiate involution of mammary glands

The mechanisms regulating involution of mammary glands after weaning are not clear, but engorgement with milk is a key trigger. Many cell types require to be anchored to an extracellular matrix (ECM) as a prerequisite for survival and this is achieved via intregrins binding to specific motifs and signalling their attachment, intracellularly, via focal adhesion kinase (FAK). We sought to determine firstly, if expression of β1‐integrin and FAK is reduced during the first stage of involution. Expression of β1‐integrin and FAK was significantly reduced at 6 h after sealing teats and this was accompanied with a decreased abundance of cytochrome C in mitochondria. Secondly, we sought to determine if expression of β1‐integrin and FAK was restored during the first, partially reversible stage of involution (at 24 h), but not during the second irreversible stage, which occurs after 72 h. Re‐suckling restored full expression of the 80 kDa fragment of FAK, but not of the 125 kDa protein or β1‐integrin at 24 h after weaning. Re‐suckling did not restore expression of either peptide after 72 h. Changes in expression of cytochrome C and pro‐caspase‐3 (apoptotic markers) were similar to that of the 80 kDa fragment of FAK. These data suggest that epithelial cells can restore partial contact with their basement membrane during the first, reversible stage, but not during the second irreversible stage of involution. We speculate that decreased contact between epithelial cells and their basement membrane initiates apoptosis in mammary glands at weaning. This process begins within 6 h of pup withdrawal. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A Comparison of Iliac and Cranial Bone in Secondary Grafting of Alveolar Clefts

This retrospective study compares the success of iliac versus cranial bone autografts in the secondary grafting of alveolar clefts. The study group was 116 patients with complete records and radiographs from a pool of 186 consecutively grafted patients at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. The quality of graft “take” was graded radiologically. Variables potentially influencing outcome were evaluated and included graft type (iliac versus cranial bone), cleft type (unilateral versus bilateral), cleft severity (complete unilateral or bilateral cleft lip and palate versus cleft of the alveolus only), age at grafting, and complications. Although graft “take” versus “nontake” seemed comparable in iliac and cranial bone graft groups, iliac bone showed a statistical superiority over cranial bone, with more radiologically excellent grades (p = 0.04) in all cleft types. Likewise, when the two graft types were compared in more severe clefts (complete unilateral and bilateral cleft lip and palate), iliac bone showed statistical superiority (p = 0.02) over cranial bone. However, they seemed comparable in less severe clefts of the alveolus only (p = 0.22). Recipient-site complications and their sequelae were comparable in iliac versus cranial graft groups, and no age-related differences were noted in children grafted above or below age 10. (Plast. Reconstr. Surg. 96: 789, 1995.)
Coarse-grained simulations of bacterial cell wall growth reveal that local coordination alone can be sufficient to maintain rod shape

Significance The rod shape of walled bacteria is determined by the peptidoglycan (PG) sacculus, but how rod shape is maintained as cells grow remains a fundamental question in bacterial cell biology. We have developed a coarse-grained modeling method to study rod shape maintenance. Individual PG remodeling enzymes, including transglycosylases, transpeptidases, and endopeptidases, are for the first time, to our knowledge, explicitly modeled to explore how they can coordinate to remodel a sacculus several orders of magnitude larger than the enzymes themselves. Rather than requiring top-down regulation of new PG insertion sites, our work shows that local coordination of the PG remodeling enzymes within discrete complexes can be sufficient to maintain the integrity and rod shape of the sacculus. Bacteria are surrounded by a peptidoglycan (PG) cell wall that must be remodeled to allow cell growth. While many structural details and properties of PG and the individual enzymes involved are known, how the process is coordinated to maintain cell integrity and rod shape is not understood. We have developed a coarse-grained method to simulate how individual transglycosylases, transpeptidases, and endopeptidases could introduce new material into an existing unilayer PG network. We find that a simple model with no enzyme coordination fails to maintain cell wall integrity and rod shape. We then iteratively analyze failure modes and explore different mechanistic hypotheses about how each problem might be overcome by the macromolecules involved. In contrast to a current theory, which posits that long MreB filaments are needed to coordinate PG insertion sites, we find that local coordination of enzyme activities in individual complexes can be sufficient to maintain cell integrity and rod shape. We also present possible molecular explanations for the existence of monofunctional transpeptidases and glycosidases (glycoside hydrolases), trimeric peptide crosslinks, cell twisting during growth, and synthesis of new strands in pairs.
Forty-Five Years of Civil Litigation Against Canadian Psychiatrists: An Empirical Pilot Study

Objectives: To extract the themes pertaining to prudent psychiatric practice from written court judgments in Canada. Methods: We searched the medical and legal literature for cases involving civil litigation against Canadian psychiatrist and reviewed all available written judgments. We completed a thematic analysis of the civil actions against psychiatrists as conveyed by those written court judgments. We classified the cases according to the disposal status and the essential lessons from the decisions on standard of care and practice by Canadian psychiatrists. Results: Forty such cases were identified as involving psychiatrists over a 45-year period. A subgroup included those dealing with limitation periods and disclosure applications. Thirty of the 40 cases (75%) were decided in favour of the defendant psychiatrists, including 2 dismissed for running over the limitation period. The cases that actually went to trial suggest that documentation and obtaining second opinions are protective against claims of negligence. Inpatient cases resulting in successful litigation against psychiatrists involved fatal outcomes, but not all fatal outcomes led to successful litigation. Conclusions: The key lessons from these cases are the importance and relevance of regular best clinical practices, such as documentation, obtaining second opinions, following guidelines, and balancing competencies in the expert and manager or advocate roles. Incorporating these practices should allay concerns about litigation against psychiatrists.
Modeling of Thermal Gelation and Degelation of MC and HPMC Hydrogels

Hydrogels play a key role in many pharmaceutical and bio-applications. It is therefore advantageous to be able to predict the gelation process so that properties and performance of hydrogels can be optimized for these applications. This study examines the numerical models proposed earlier and modifies them in order to describe more accurately and appropriately the thermally induced gelation and degelation of methylcellulose (MC) and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) systems. In this work, variations of a bell-shaped mathematical formulation are used to fit the differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) heating and cooling data for MC and HPMC hydrogels. One of the models developed, referred to as Cp1 + Cp2 - Cp3 model, could provide consistently accurate curve fit for all concentrations of MC and HPMC hydrogels. These results are further used to predict the enthalpy-based degree of gelation and degelation as a function of temperature for various concentrations of MC and HPMC.
Apolipoproteins A-I, B, and C-III and Obesity in Young Adult Cherokee

Since young adult Cherokee are at increased risk for both diabetes and cardiovascular disease, we assessed association of apolipoproteins (A-I, B, and C-III in non-HDL and HDL) with obesity and related risk factors. Obese participants (BMI ≥ 30) aged 20–40 years (n = 476) were studied. Metabolically healthy obese (MHO) individuals were defined as not having any of four components of the ATP-III metabolic syndrome after exclusion of waist circumference, and obese participants not being MHO were defined as metabolically abnormal obese (MAO). Associations were evaluated by correlation and regression modeling. Obesity measures, blood pressure, insulin resistance, lipids, and apolipoproteins were significantly different between groups except for total cholesterol, LDL-C, and HDL-apoC-III. Apolipoproteins were not correlated with obesity measures with the exception of apoA-I with waist and the waist : height ratio. In a logistic regression model apoA-I and the apoB : apoA-I ratio were significantly selected for identifying those being MHO, and the result (C-statistic = 0.902) indicated that apoA-I and the apoB : apoA-I ratio can be used to identify a subgroup of obese individuals with a significantly less atherogenic lipid and apolipoprotein profile, particularly in obese Cherokee men in whom MHO is more likely.
Trade Openness and Risk Sharing in Sub-Saharan Africa: Do Institutions and Financial Depth Matter?

Abstract The study investigates the extent to which trade openness could determine consumption risk sharing. The findings from panel regressions on Sub-Saharan African countries suggest a significant contribution of trade integration in the allocation of consumption risk. Further results point to the importance of reducing corruption if countries are to unhinge domestic consumption from domestic production. Additionally, as countries achieve higher financial deepening, they could become independent from international financial reliance thereby enjoying less Consumption risk sharing. The study argues for policies to promote trade and fight corruption if the observed levels of risk sharing in Sub-Saharan Africa are to improve.
The behavior of N/sub 2/+SF/sub 6/ gas mixtures subjected to orthogonal electric and magnetic fields

The limiting equivalent electric fields in N/sub 2/+SF/sub 6/ binary gas mixtures due to Townsend discharges are evaluated directly from a Monte-Carlo simulation when the mixture is subjected to orthogonal electric and magnetic fields. Along with the limiting equivalent electric fields, transverse and perpendicular drift velocities, electron mean energies and collision frequencies are also determined within the scope of the Monte-Carlo simulation. The equivalent reduced electric field (EREF) concept for the corresponding limiting electric fields is also investigated for the calculated mean energy levels and collision frequencies. The EREF values are found to be in good agreement with the previously published limiting electric field data.
The Predictive Ability of Alternative Parts of Interim Financial Statements

Annual financial statements are prepared to inform interested parties of the results of operations for the year ended and the financial condition of the firm on the ending date of the period. Statements are also included for previous periods to be used on a comparative basis as an aid in evaluating management and predicting future operating results. It is assumed that the reasons for quarterly statements are similar to the reasons for annual statements-comparative data are given and they should be useful for predicting forthcoming annual results. This expectation of predictive ability is fairly general as shown by the statement in Cohen and Zinbarg, ". if data for the first two quarters already are available at the time of analysis, an estimate for the full year usually can be made quite readily. " 1 Further, some authors have employed quarterly earnings statements in security selection models.2 Given the extensive use made of quarterly statements, the purpose of this paper is to investigate
Development of a defined medium and two-step culturing method for improved exotoxin A yields from Pseudomonas aeruginosa

A two-step method is described for the production of exotoxin A by Pseudomonas aeruginosa in which a defined growth medium is modified for the toxin production phase. As a result, specific exotoxin A yields comparable to those obtained with complex media were achieved. In the development of this two-step process, several divalent metallic cations (Ca2+, Cu2+, and Mn2+), in addition to iron, were found to inhibit the yield of exotoxin A while Ca2+ and glycerol were found to increase yields. Northern blot analysis of total RNA isolates suggests that these effects on exotoxin A yields are based on events at the transcription level.
Improving Shareholder Value through Corporate Governance Mechanism in Malaysian Listed Companies

This paper proposes to investigate the postulations of renowned agency theory and shareholder value (SHV) in relation to Corporate Governance (CG) attributes. Shareholder value is of a great concern to the shareholders of firms. Shareholder value have been investigated by numerous studies of corporate governance but with inconsistent empirical evidence. This study will focus on investigating the impact of CG attributes on Shareholder value measured by Tobin’s Q or return on both equity and assets. The paper conceptualized four attributes (Separate leadership, proportion of Independent director, independent chairman, independence of nomination committee) from Corporate Governance mechanism in relation to shareholder value in companies listed on BURSA Malaysia. This is a conceptual paper which proposes to investigate the relationship between shareholder value and separate leadership, shareholder value and proportion of independent director, shareholder value and independent chairman, shareholder value and independence of nomination committee in the context of Malaysia. The proposed study has value for Malaysian government, policy makers, corporate boards, stock exchange and shareholders by highlighting the distinct impact on shareholder value and its relation with separate leadership, proportion of independent director, independent chairman, and independence of nomination committee. Keywords: Shareholder Value, Corporate Governance Mechanism JEL Classification: G34
Exploring Student and Faculty Perceptions of Clinical Simulation: A Q-Sort Study.

BACKGROUND Simulation learning has become a widely accepted and valuable methodology within nursing education. This study assessed whether student and faculty perceptions regarding simulation learning have changed since curricular integration of simulation activities within an undergraduate nursing program. METHOD Q-methodology was used to identify unique and similar perspectives of 12 faculty and 21 students. Participants completed a brief demographic questionnaire and sorted statements related to beliefs about simulation-based learning. RESULTS Faculty perceptions were captured within one viewpoint-positive enthusiasts. Three student viewpoints were identified: challenge seekers, realistic embracers, and support seekers. Both students and faculty believed that simulation improved critical thinking. CONCLUSION The findings suggest that faculty should be aware of the range of student perceptions and tailor their teaching approaches accordingly to maximize student learning.
Vagal Modulation of the Inflammatory Response in Sepsis

The vagus nerve can sense peripheral inflammation and transmit action potentials from the periphery to the brainstem. Vagal afferent signaling is integrated in the brainstem, and efferent vagus nerves carry outbound signals that terminate in spleen and other organs. Stimulation of efferent vagus nerve leads to the release of acetylcholine in these organs. In turn, acetylcholine interacts with members of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) family, particularly with the alpha7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR), which is expressed by macrophages and other cytokine-producing cells. Ultimately, the production of proinflammatory cytokines is markedly inhibited. This neuroimmune communication is termed “the inflammatory reflex”. The uncontrolled inflammation as a result from sepsis can lead to multiple organ failure, and even death. Experimental data show that regulation of the inflammatory reflex appears to be a useful interventional strategy for septic response. Herein, we review recent advances in the understanding of the inflammatory reflex and discuss potential therapeutics that vagal modulation of the immune system for the treatment of severe sepsis and septic shock.
The Depressive Symptoms, Resourcefulness, and Self-Harm Behaviors of Adolescents

Background: A report published by the World Health Organization indicates that depression typically first manifests during youth. However, adolescents usually lack the capacity for self-help or to seek help proactively from health professionals or other related resources to relieve their emotional distress. Failing to manage depression appropriately places adolescents at risk for self-harm and suicide. Purpose: This study explored the correlations among the depressivesymptoms, resourcefulness, and self-harm behaviors of adolescents. In addition, the impact of depressive symptoms and resourcefulness on the self-harm behaviors of adolescents was examined. Methods: A cross-sectional and correlational design was used. One hundred forty secondary school (junior and senior high school) students in southern Taiwan were recruited for data collection using three questionnaires that measured, respectively, their depressivesymptoms, resourcefulness, and self-harm behaviors. Results: Depressive symptoms and self-harm behaviors correlated significantly and positively (r = .79, p < .001). Resourcefulness correlated significantly and negatively with both depressive symptoms (r = −.35, p < .001) and self-harm behaviors (r = −.29, p < .001). Finally, depressive symptoms significantly predicted self-harm behaviors. Conclusions/Implications for Practice: This study provides new findings regarding the significant relationship between resourcefulness and self-harm behaviors in adolescents. Future research is suggested to explore the effect of interventions about resourcefulness training on the mental health of adolescents.
Sequence and regulation of a gene encoding a human 89-kilodalton heat shock protein

Vertebrate cells synthesize two forms of the 82- to 90-kilodalton heat shock protein that are encoded by distinct gene families. In HeLa cells, both proteins (hsp89 alpha and hsp89 beta) are abundant under normal growth conditions and are synthesized at increased rates in response to heat stress. Only the larger form, hsp89 alpha, is induced by the adenovirus E1A gene product (M. C. Simon, K. Kitchener, H. T. Kao, E. Hickey, L. Weber, R. Voellmy, N. Heintz, and J. R. Nevins, Mol. Cell. Biol. 7:2884-2890, 1987). We have isolated a human hsp89 alpha gene that shows complete sequence identity with heat- and E1A-inducible cDNA used as a hybridization probe. The 5'-flanking region contained overlapping and inverted consensus heat shock control elements that can confer heat-inducible expression on a beta-globin reporter gene. The gene contained 10 intervening sequences. The first intron was located adjacent to the translation start codon, an arrangement also found in the Drosophila hsp82 gene. The spliced mRNA sequence contained a single open reading frame encoding an 84,564-dalton polypeptide showing high homology with the hsp82 to hsp90 proteins of other organisms. The deduced hsp89 alpha protein sequence differed from the human hsp89 beta sequence reported elsewhere (N. F. Rebbe, J. Ware, R. M. Bertina, P. Modrich, and D. W. Stafford (Gene 53:235-245, 1987) in at least 99 out of the 732 amino acids. Transcription of the hsp89 alpha gene was induced by serum during normal cell growth, but expression did not appear to be restricted to a particular stage of the cell cycle. hsp89 alpha mRNA was considerably more stable than the mRNA encoding hsp70, which can account for the higher constitutive rate of hsp89 synthesis in unstressed cells.
Use of Resequencing Oligonucleotide Microarrays for Identification of Streptococcus pyogenes and Associated Antibiotic Resistance Determinants

ABSTRACT Group A streptococci (GAS) are responsible for a wide variety of human infections associated with considerable morbidity and mortality. Ever since the first systematic effort by Lancefield to group Streptococcus species by M protein variants, the detection and characterization of Streptococcus by different methods have been an evolving process. The ideal assay for GAS identification not only would provide quick and accurate diagnostic results but also would reveal antibiotic resistance patterns and genotype information, aiding not only in treatment but in epidemiologic assessment as well. The oligonucleotide microarray is a promising new technology which could potentially address this need. In this study, we evaluated the usefulness of oligonucleotide resequencing microarrays for identifying GAS and its associated antibiotic resistance markers. We demonstrated an assay platform that combines the use of resequencing DNA microarrays with either random nucleic acid amplification or multiplex PCR for GAS detection. When detecting Streptococcus pyogenes from coded clinical samples, this approach demonstrated an excellent concordance with a more established culture method. To this end, we showed the potential of resequencing microarrays for efficient and accurate detection of GAS and its associated antibiotic resistance markers with the benefit of sequencing information from microarray analysis.