Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Cationic copolymers that enhance wild-type-specific suppression in BNA-clamp PCR and preferentially increase the Tm of fully matched complementary DNA and BNA strands

Abstract Mutation detection is of major interest in molecular diagnostics, especially in the field of oncology. However, detection can be challenging as mutant alleles often coexist with excess copies of wild-type alleles. Bridged nucleic acid (BNA)-clamp PCR circumvents this challenge by preferentially suppressing the amplification of wild-type alleles and enriching rare mutant alleles. In this study, we screened cationic copolymers containing nonionic and anionic repeat units for their ability to (i) increase the Tm of double-stranded DNA, (ii) avoid PCR inhibition, and (iii) enhance the suppression of wild-type amplification in BNA-clamp PCR to detect the KRAS G13D mutation. The selected copolymers that met these criteria consisted of four types of amines and anionic and/or nonionic units. In BNA-clamp PCR, these copolymers increased the threshold cycle (Ct) of the wild-type allele only and enabled mutation detection from templates with a 0.01% mutant-to-wild-type ratio. Melting curve analysis with 11-mer DNA–DNA or BNA–DNA complementary strands showed that these copolymers preferentially increased the Tm of perfectly matched strands over strands containing 1-bp mismatches. These results suggested that these copolymers preferentially stabilize perfectly matched DNA and BNA strands and thereby enhance rare mutant detection in BNA-clamp PCR.
Device Characterization and Compact Modeling of the SiGe HBT in Extreme Temperature Environments

The silicon germanium heterojunction bipolar transistor, SiGe HBT, has very high frequency response but limited voltage range. Commercial communication applications in wireless and system integration have driven the development of the SiGe HBT. However, the device’s excellent electrical performance goes beyond the commercial environment. The SiGe HBT performs exceptionally at low temperatures. The device DC current gain and AC smallsignal gain significantly increase in the cryogenic temperature range. Applications at low temperatures with expansive temperature range specifications need an HBT compact model to accurately represent the device’s performance. In this work, a compact model referenced at 300K was developed to accurately represent both DC and AC electrical performance of the SiGe HBT over an extended temperature range, down to 93K. This single expansive temperature, SET, model supports all functions of circuit simulation; DC quiescent operation and AC frequency response. The SET model was developed from the Mextram 504.7 bipolar model and accurately represents full transistor operation over an extreme temperature environment. The model correctly simulates SiGe HBT DC output performance from saturation, through quasi-saturation and the linear region including impact ionization effects. This model was developed through a combination of physical calculations based on doping profiles and optimization techniques for modeling fitting. The SET model of this dissertation added 32 parameters to the original Mextram 504.7 model’s 78 parameters. The device’s static and dynamic performance over the full temperature range down to 93K was fitted with a single group of SET model parameters. The model results show excellent correlation with measured data over the entire temperature range. This dissertation is approved for recommendation to the Graduate Council. Co-Dissertation Directors: ______________________________________ Dr. Simon S. Ang ______________________________________ Dr. Randy L. Brown Dissertation Committee: _______________________________________ Mr. G. Wayne Dietrich _______________________________________ Dr. H. Alan Mantooth _______________________________________ Dr. Jerry R. Yeargan ©2013 by Beth Olivia Woods All Rights Reserved Dissertation Duplication Release I hereby authorize the University of Arkansas Libraries to duplicate this dissertation when needed for research and/or scholarship. Agreed__________________________________ Beth Olivia Woods Refused_________________________________ Beth Olivia Woods
Experimental Investigation of Rotating Stall Characteristics in a Radial Vaneless Diffuser

Rotating stall characteristics in a radial vaneless diffuser model was investigated experimentally. Measurements were made using hot-wires and pressure transducers (static and dynamic). The mass flowrate through the blower, at constant impeller speed, was gradually reduced until flow instability occurred in the diffuser. This enabled the onset and propagation of rotating stall to be fully described. The blower was operated without the vaneless diffuser in order to ascertain the cause of the flow instability. It was discovered that the impeller did not stall at the flow rates at which the blower was operated with the diffuser. The critical flow angles measured at the diffuser inlet, and midway between the diffuser walls, were in good agreement with earlier reported values in the open literature. The maximum number of rotating stall cells found in this study was two. The single-stall cell structure was found to be dominant over the two-stall cell structure at flow coefficients much lower than the critical flow coefficient.Copyright © 2000 by ASME
The Relationship between Prevention Focus, Money Attitude and Financial Behavior

This study aims to investigate the relationship between the prevention focus as a regulatory focus factor that affects individuals’ decisions and money attitude and financial behaviour. Within the scope of the study, questionnaires were administered to 385 people and the study data were analyzed using the structural equation modelling technique. Results of the study reveal that the prevention-focus factor has no direct or indirect effect on financial behaviour. Further, prevention-focus is found to have a positive effect on power-prestige, retention-time, distrust and anxiety, which are among the factors that define attitude towards money. However, the retention-time factor is the only money attitude factor found to have a positive effect on financial behaviour
A new planarization technique, using a combination of RIE and chemical mechanical polish (CMP)

A novel planarization technique for variable size and pattern factors is presented. It is demonstrated that by the combination of reactive ion etching (RIE) and chemical mechanical polish (CMP), the process window is improved to the extent that the planarization becomes a reality. This technique is applied in the shallow trench isolation process which is used in 16-Mb DRAM (dynamic RAM) technology to achieve 0.5- mu m isolation/device dimensions. By a proper combination of RIE and CMP processes, the fundamental problem of tolerance accumulation from deposition and etchback of large film thicknesses is avoided. Excellent planarization is achieved in different areas of the DRAM chip with varying isolation sizes and pattern factors, including deep trench integration. High gate oxide breakdown yield (comparable to LOCOS isolation), which is indicative of the planarization low defect density, is demonstrated. <<ETX>>
Operationalizing Leadership and Clinician Buy-In to Implement Evidence-Based Tobacco Treatment Programs in Routine Oncology Care: A Mixed-Method Study of the U.S. Cancer Center Cessation Initiative

Background: Delivering evidence-based tobacco dependence treatment in oncology settings improves smoking abstinence and cancer outcomes. Leadership engagement/buy-in is critical for implementation success, but few studies have defined buy-in or described how to secure buy-in for tobacco treatment programs (TTPs) in cancer care. This study examines buy-in during the establishment of tobacco treatment programs at National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated cancer centers. Methods: We utilized a sequential, explanatory mixed-methods approach to analyze quantitative data and qualitative interviews with program leads in the U.S.-based NCI Moonshot-supported Cancer Center Cessation Initiative (n = 20 Centers). We calculated descriptive statistics and applied structural coding and content analysis to qualitative data. Results: At least 75% of participating centers secured health care system administrative, clinical, and IT leadership buy-in and support. Six themes emerged from interviews: engaging leadership, access to resources, leveraging federal funding support to build leadership interest, designating champions, identifying training needs, and ensuring staff roles and IT systems support workflows. Conclusions: Buy-in among staff and clinicians is defined by the belief that the TTP is necessary, valuable, and evidence based. Recognizing and securing these dimensions of buy-in can facilitate implementation success, leading to improved cancer outcomes.
The OP-amplifier with offset cancellation circuit

For the data drivers of TFT-LCDs with high gray-scale above 8-bit, OP-Amps with high voltage accuracy less than 1 mV, is needed. Accordingly, the offsets voltages of the OP-Amps should be compensated in order to achieve the accuracy. In this paper, we present an asymmetrical differential input circuit with common mode feedback (CMFB) circuit, which reduces the offsets. The OP-Amp with the proposed circuit shows the systematic offset voltages less than 100 /spl mu/V in whole operating ranges. Furthermore, the random offsets also can be compensated by the proposed circuit.
Proposal Of A Software Coding Analysis Tool Using Symbolic Execution For A Railway System

The railway system is being converted to a computer system from the existing mechanical device, and the dependency on software is rapidly increasing. Though the size and degree of complexity of software for railway systems are slower than the development speed of hardware, it is expected that the size will gradually grow bigger and the degree of complexity will also increase. Accordingly, the validation of reliability and safety of embedded software for the railway system started to become an important issue. Accordingly, various software tests and validation activities are highly recommended in railway software related international standards. In this paper, we present a software coding analysis tool using symbolic execution for a railway system, and present the result of its implementation.
EVALUATION OF QUALITY OF LIFE IN LUNG CANCER PATIENTS

There is a growing need to improve end-of-life care in cancer patients and to evaluate it through questionnaires is an important tool to assess its results. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the palliative care in the quality of life, distressing symptoms and functional capacity of patients with primary lung cancer with locally advanced disease and metastatic disease in a university hospital. Thirty patients with lung cancer, previously treated with curative intention and submitted to a palliative treatment, were enrolled for this study. They were divided into three groups. The first group had 10 patients, who lived between 30 and 59 days after admittance, the second, 10 patients who lived between 60 and 89 days and the third, 10 patients who lived 90 days or more. Data collection regarding five stressing symptoms: anorexia, dyspnea, pain, fatigue, hemoptysis, and cough, was performed according to Lung Cancer Symptom Scale and Karnofsky Performance Status Scale. By observational inspection, “Appetite” and “Karnofsky Performance Status Scale”, improved; “pain" worsened and "quality of life" improved after palliative care, according to the patients. Physical, psychological, spiritual and social factors influence the symptoms of patients with cancer in later life. Treatment by palliative care can provide comfort for these patients.
Implementation of Standard Operating Procedures for Patient Care

This study aims to determine the application of standard operating procedures for patient care in the emergency room of dr. MM. Dunda Limboto, Gorontalo District. The research method used is a qualitative research approach with descriptive research type. The results showed that the Application of Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for Patient Services in the IGD RSUD dr. MM. In general, Dunda Limboto Gorontalo District has not been implemented optimally. This can be seen from the 7 SOP indicators, only 4 have been implemented properly. As for the results of the research on these indicators are: 1) the procedure for registering patients in the ER has not been running optimally, 2) the procedure for receiving patients in the patient reception room has not been optimally carried out, 3) The doctor prepares for the examination including: Patient preparation , tools, washing hands and wearing PPE, the results of the study found that this procedure was carried out well, 4) The doctor carried out the examination including: history taking, physical examination and checking the patient's vital signs, supporting examinations, had not been carried out properly, 5) The doctor determined the diagnosis meanwhile, it has been carried out properly, 6) The doctor determines the treatment and medical action on the patient, this procedure has been carried out in accordance with the SOP, and 7) The doctor observes and evaluates the results of treatment or action, this procedure has been carried out in accordance with the existing SOP.
The role of bounded-authority concerns in shaping citizens' duty to obey authorities during COVID-19

PurposeThe COVID-19 pandemic has necessitated the introduction of extra-ordinary restrictions to mitigate its spread. Authorities rely on the public's voluntary willingness to obey these restrictions, yet the intrusive nature of these measures may lead some people to believe that authorities are overstepping the limits of their rightful power (i.e. bounded-authority). This paper applies the bounded-authority framework to the COVID-19 context to understand the factors associated with the public's duty to obey authorities during COVID-19.Design/methodology/approachThis paper utilizes survey data from 1,582 individuals to examine what factors drive COVID-19-related bounded-authority concerns, and in turn, how bounded-authority concerns may impact one's duty to obey authorities during COVID-19.FindingsResults show that worry about freedom loss, opposition to surveillance tactics, police heavy-handedness and perceptions of procedural injustice from police during the pandemic all drive bounded-authority concerns. Findings also reveal that bounded-authority concerns are associated with reduced duty to obey and mediate the relationship between procedural justice and the duty to obey authorities' enforcement of COVID-19 restrictions.Originality/valueFindings reveal new evidence about the bounded-authority framework and the public's duty to obey authorities, with implications for the COVID-19 context and beyond.
Investor personality as a predictor of investment intention – mediating role of overconfidence bias and financial literacy

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to examine the role of personality traits (PTs) of individual investors on their investment intention (II). Further, to study the mediating role of overconfidence (OC) bias and financial literacy (FL) on the relationship between PTs and II.Design/methodology/approachThe present study uses the quantitative approach for the data collection from the sample of 327 Indian investors investing in the stock market. The questionnaire was divided into segments to assess the investor’s PTs, OC, FL and II. The PT has been measured using the Big Five Personality Traits. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to test the reliability and validity of the constructs. The hypothesis was tested using structural equation modeling.FindingsFindings of the study show that the PTs of an individual investor are associated with FL and II but insignificant with OC bias. Further, the FL and OC bias have a positive and significant influence on II. In addition, the mediation analysis showed that FL partly mediates the relationship between PTs and II.Practical implicationsThe present study is helpful for financial companies, government, personal finance advisors and individual investors; they can keep in mind the behavior-related traits that can influence the investment decisions and design the portfolio accordingly. The policy-makers can implement programs on FL to enhance investment decisions in India.Originality/valueThis paper is unique that covers the mediating role of psychological bias, i.e. OC bias and FL, between the PTs and II of an Indian investor.
The Microbial Mechanisms of a Novel Photosensitive Material (Treated Rape Pollen) in Anti-Biofilm Process under Marine Environment

Marine biofouling is a worldwide problem in coastal areas and affects the maritime industry primarily by attachment of fouling organisms to solid immersed surfaces. Biofilm formation by microbes is the main cause of biofouling. Currently, application of antibacterial materials is an important strategy for preventing bacterial colonization and biofilm formation. A natural three-dimensional carbon skeleton material, TRP (treated rape pollen), attracted our attention owing to its visible-light-driven photocatalytic disinfection property. Based on this, we hypothesized that TRP, which is eco-friendly, would show antifouling performance and could be used for marine antifouling. We then assessed its physiochemical characteristics, oxidant potential, and antifouling ability. The results showed that TRP had excellent photosensitivity and oxidant ability, as well as strong anti-bacterial colonization capability under light-driven conditions. Confocal laser scanning microscopy showed that TRP could disperse pre-established biofilms on stainless steel surfaces in natural seawater. The biodiversity and taxonomic composition of biofilms were significantly altered by TRP (p < 0.05). Moreover, metagenomics analysis showed that functional classes involved in the antioxidant system, environmental stress, glucose–lipid metabolism, and membrane-associated functions were changed after TRP exposure. Co-occurrence model analysis further revealed that TRP markedly increased the complexity of the biofilm microbial network under light irradiation. Taken together, these results demonstrate that TRP with light irradiation can inhibit bacterial colonization and prevent initial biofilm formation. Thus, TRP is a potential nature-based green material for marine antifouling.
Automatic characterization of breast lesions using multi-scale attention-guided deep learning of digital histology images

ABSTRACT A multi-scale attention-guided deep learning model is proposed to characterise breast tissue in digital histology images (H&E stained) according to four different histological types including normal, benign, in situ carcinoma and invasive carcinoma. The framework includes two parallel convolutional neural networks with modified VGG16 architecture. The first network analyzes the whole-sample images at low magnification. The second network focuses on the patches extracted from the whole-sample images at high magnification. In the low-magnification network, a global average pooling layer was added at the end of the network to extract the class activation maps for the attention model. A long short-term memory network was adapted as a recurrent attention mechanism to increase the contribution of the relevant parts of each image for classification. In the high-magnification network, the probability vectors were averaged over all patches extracted from an image to obtain the probability vectors associated with the four histological types for each sample. The probability vectors for each sample from the high-magnification network and the attention model were fused using a multilayer perceptron network to generate a classification label. Obtained results on an independent test set demonstrated an average accuracy of 97.5% ± 1.0% for the proposed model. An average accuracy of 94.5%, 93.5%, and 96.3% was obtained, respectively, for the separate high- and low-magnification networks, and the multi-scale model without an attention mechanism. The results suggested that a multi-scale strategy coupled with an attention mechanism can improve the accuracy of deep learning models in classifying digital histology images.
Opportunity and challenge of seaweed bioethanol based on life cycle CO2 assessment

Seaweed bioethanol technology is being developed to mitigate climate change and to overcome economic and environmental drawbacks that terrestrial bioethanol has: biomass demand competition for food and energy, and land‐use change impacts. To investigate whether seaweed bioethanol is better than terrestrial bioethanol, we compare the global warming potentials (GWPs) of seaweed and terrestrial bioethanols from a life cycle perspective including land‐related GWP effects from carbon debt, soil carbon sequestration, and N2O emission. Our results demonstrated that seaweed bioethanol has lower GWP in the long term than terrestrial bioethanols from corn grain, corn stover, and switchgrass, primarily because seaweed cultivation does not consume fertilizers and incur carbon debt and N2O emission. It was noted that future R&D strategy for low‐carbon seaweed bioethanol needs to be directed to developing biomaterial‐based cultivation equipment and reusing existing equipment, as well as enhancing bioethanol conversion yield and biomass productivity. Due to the vast sea available for seaweed cultivation, seaweed bioethanol could significantly contribute to mitigating climate change. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 36: 200–207, 2017
The Investigation and Optimization of a Two-Heat-Pump System Incorporating Thermal Storage for Shaping Residential Heating Load

Portland General Electric has proposed coupling one or more water tanks with two heat pumps in order to perform load-shifting in residential customer heating and cooling applications. By using the water tanks as a thermal storage unit, this project attempts to partially decouple energy consumption from generation to provide peak demand reduction and to better facilitate the integration of variable renewable energy resources. A scoping study was performed to evaluate the potential impact of this project if implemented in single family homes in Portland, Oregon. This study revealed that the system could provide meaningful savings in the cost of electricity to both the customer and utility. Additionally, an optimization algorithm was developed to dictate system operation and to maximize gains to the utility. Evolutionary algorithms were explored in an attempt to increase the effectiveness of the algorithm’s search in limited computation time. Ultimately, an evolution strategy was selected as the most suitable based on tests run in winter and spring months. A genetic algorithm was then developed to handle fixed-speed heat pump operation for compatibility with an alpha-system prototype that has been developed by the research team.