cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Formation of Low-Resistance Ohmic Contact by Damage-Proof Selective-Area Growth of Single-Crystal n + -GaN Using Plasma-Assisted Molecular Beam Epitaxy

To achieve very low ohmic contact resistance, an n +-GaN layer was selectively deposited using plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy (PAMBE). During this process polycrystalline GaN grew on the patterned SiO2 region, which was subsequently removed by a heated KOH solution, resulting in damage to the n +-GaN surface. To prevent this damage, an additional SiO2 layer was selectively deposited only on the n +-GaN region. To optimize the fabrication process the KOH etching time and n +-GaN layer thickness were adjusted. This damage-proof scheme resulted in a specific contact resistance of 4.6 × 10−7 Ω cm2. In comparison, the resistance with the KOH etching damage was 4.9 × 10−6 Ω cm2 to 24 × 10−6 Ω cm2. The KOH etching produced a large number of pits (4.1 × 108 cm−2) and degraded the current transport. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and secondary-ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) analysis indicated that KOH etching was very effective in removing the oxide from the GaN surface and that the O-H bonding at the GaN surface was likely responsible for the degraded contact performance. The optimum n +-GaN thickness was found to be 54 nm.
SURESH CANAGARAJAH, Resisting linguistic imperialism in English teaching. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1999. Pp. viii+216. Pb. $24.95.

As eighth-grade students of English in a “periphery” community school in India, we were assigned to discuss and to appreciate a piece of prose, from our textbook, called “On not answering the telephone”; it was a satirical piece demonizing telephones because their existence and use flouted all tenets of British English linguistic etiquette. None of us in that class had a phone in our homes, and none of us had any desire to learn the alien etiquette. We were interested only in learning the language to the extent that it could help us realize our immediate and, perhaps, future goals. This was our tacit response, and resistance, to English linguistic imperialism: awareness of the pragmatic rewards of English-language acquisition and use, but negation and denial of the cultural hegemony of English. This dynamic of ideological imposition and resistance (and appropriation) forms the core of Canagarajah's book, Resisting linguistic imperialism in English teaching.
Stereoselective synthesis of L‐[4‐13C]carnitine

The stereoselective synthesis of L-[4-13C]carnitine was achieved in 5 steps. The label was introduced from K13CN into an easily separated diastereomeric pair of 3-deoxy-D-[1-13C]aldohexoses. Reductive amination of the labeled aldohexose yielded the corresponding D-1-(dimethylamino)[1-13C]alditol which was oxidized in two steps and alkylated with iodomethane to yield L-[4-13C]carnitine. The stereochemical integrity at C-2 of the 3-deoxy-D-[1-13C]glucose precursor was maintained throughout the synthesis of L-[4-13C]carnitine.
Engineering in genomics: the interdisciplinary nature of genomics

The Department of Molecular Biotechnology at the University of Washington is a unique example of how scientists and engineers may be trained and work together to develop new tools for cutting-edge biological research. The interdisciplinary CAP5000 Team, supported by the NIH SERCA program and Washington State, is another example of how biotechnology experts, engineers and industry can work together to fulfill some of the needs of the Human Genome Project and future needs of biotechnology research. >
The sensitivity of multichannel intraluminal impedance and the pH probe in the evaluation of gastroesophageal reflux in children.

Background & Aims: Multichannel intraluminal impedance (MII) has been incorporated into gastroesophageal reflux evaluations in children despite a lack of evidence comparing it to the gold standard pH probe. The aim of this study was to compare these two technologies. Methods: Twenty-five consecutive, untreated children undergoing pH-MII recording were studied. Sensitivities for the pH probe and MII were defined as: (acid+pH-only episodes)/(acid+non-acid+pH-only episodes) and (acid+non-acid episodes)/(acid+non-acid+pH-only episodes), respectively. Sensitivities were compared using paired t testing. After the analysis was performed, the pH-MII tracings of 25 age-matched children taking acid suppression therapy were compared and sensitivity calculations were performed. Results: In untreated patients, 1845 reflux episodes were detected, and 1702 were detected in treated patients. The mean sensitivities of pH probe and MII in untreated patients were 80.6 ± 18.2% and 76.1 ± 13.5%, respectively (P = .41). The mean sensitivities of pH probe and MII in treated patients were 47.2 ± 36.0% and 80.3 ± 21.1%, respectively (P = .005). Twenty-five percent of reflux episodes were pH-only episodes. There were no differences in the mean number of acid or non-acid reflux episodes in patients with normal and abnormal pH probe studies. Instead, there were significantly more pH-only episodes in patients with abnormal probe studies. Conclusions: The sensitivity of MII equals that of the pH probe in untreated patients but is superior to the pH probe in treated patients. pH-only episodes are numerous in pediatrics and should be included in pH-MII analyses.
Exploring the Validity of the Oregon Extended Writing Assessment

Research into the technical adequacy of statewide alternate assessments is limited. In this study, the authors analyzed 2 years of data from one state’s alternate assessment in written language in an attempt to validate current test score interpretations. More than 1,000 students were included in each year. Findings support the test’s technical adequacy on two major dimensions: (a) strong convergent and discriminant evidence for tasks on the assessment and (b) evidence that a collection of writing subtasks contribute unique information to the assessment of writing among students in special education. Implications include the use of the data (a) on subtasks to inform instruction in written language and (b) for accountability purposes.
The difficult—and often delayed—diagnosis of CTCL

High-throughput sequencing of T cell receptors to define and quantify T cell populations emerges as a diagnostic tool with the remarkable ability to discriminate between CTCL and benign inflammatory conditions (Kirsch et al., this issue).
Incidence of Platelet Dysfunction by Thromboelastography-Platelet Mapping in Children Supported with ECMO: A Pilot Retrospective Study.

Background: Bleeding complications are common and decrease the odds of survival in children supported with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). The role of platelet dysfunction on ECMO-induced coagulopathy and resultant bleeding complications is not well understood. The primary objective of this pilot study was to determine the incidence and magnitude of platelet dysfunction according to thromboelastography (TEG®)-platelet mapping (PM) testing. Methods: Retrospective chart review of children <18 years old who required ECMO at a tertiary level hospital. We collected TEG®-PM and conventional coagulation tests data. We also collected demographic, medications, blood products administered, and clinical outcome data. We defined severe platelet dysfunction as less than 50 % aggregation in response to an agonist. Results: We identified 24 out of 46 children on ECMO, who had TEG®-PM performed during the study period. We found the incidence of severe bleeding was 42%, and mortality was 54% in our study cohort. In all samples measured, severe qualitative platelet dysfunction was more common for adenosine diphosphate (ADP)-mediated aggregation (92%) compared to arachidonic acid (AA)-mediated aggregation (75%), (p=0.001). Also, ADP-mediated percent of platelet aggregation was significant lower than AA-mediated platelet aggregation (15% [IQR 2.8-48] vs 49% [IQR 22-82.5], p<0.001). There was no difference in kaolin-activated heparinase TEG® parameters between the bleeding group and the non-bleeding group. Only absolute platelet count and TEG®-PM had increased predictive value on receiver operating characteristics analyses for severe bleeding and mortality compared to ACT. Conclusions: We found frequent and severe qualitative platelet dysfunction on TEG®-PM testing in children on ECMO. Larger studies are needed to determine if the assessment of qualitative platelet function by TEG®-PM can improve prediction of bleeding complications for children on ECMO.
Alternative Splicing in Voltage Gated Calcium Channels

The mammalian nervous system utilizes extensive alternative splicing to support an astounding level of structural and functional diversity in the voltage-gated calcium channel family. All major calcium channel subunits, Cavα1, Cavβ, and Cavα2γ, are subject to alternative splicing. The structural changes generated by this form of RNA processing are often quite subtle but clearly critical for highly effective coupling to specific signaling pathways. The inclusion or exclusion of certain alternatively spliced exons can be differentially regulated according to tissue type, cell type, and stage of development. In certain instances, structural and functional differences generated by alternative splicing translate into unique pharmacological phenotypes. Pharmacologically distinct splice isoforms preferentially expressed in specific tissues or cell types offer exciting new targets for the design of highly specific drugs.
Extending the resource-based view: Effects of strategic orientation toward community on small business performance

Abstract The current study explores factors relating to self-interest, corporate social responsibility, and a resource-based strategy to help predict small business performance across a number of domains including retailing and service-based industries. Combining the resource-based view and instrumental stakeholder approach, we suggest that resources such as social capital, entrepreneurial orientation, and intellectual capital along with strategic management of community as a stakeholder contribute to small business performance. Results from a national survey of small businesses supported the importance of both the resource-based view and the instrumental stakeholder approach to overall performance.
The significance of anterior prostate lesions on multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging in African-American men

Abstract Introduction African-American (AA) men tend to harbor high-risk prostate cancer (PCa) and exhibit worse outcomes when compared to other groups. It has been postulated that AA men may harbor more anterior prostate lesions (APLs) that are undersampled by the standard transrectal ultrasound guided-biopsy (SBx), potentially resulting in greater degree of Gleason score (GS) upgrading at radical prostatectomy. We aimed to evaluate the detection rate of anterior PCa significance of APLs in AA men on multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) and compare it to a matched cohort of White/Other (W/O) men. Materials and methods A review of 1,267 men who had an mpMRI with suspicious prostate lesions and who underwent magnetic resonance transrectal ultrasound fusion-guided biopsy (FBx) with concurrent SBx in the same biopsy session was performed. All AA men were matched to a control group of W/O using a 1:1 propensity score-matching algorithm with age, prostate-specific antigen, and prostate volume as matching variables. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine predictors of APLs in AA men. Results Of the 195 AA men who underwent mpMRI, 93 (47.7%) men had a total of 109 APLs. Prior negative SBx was associated with the presence of APLs in AA men (Odds ratio = 1.81; 95% CI: 1.03–3.20; P = 0.04). On multivariate logistic regression analysis, smaller prostate (P = 0.001) and rising prostate-specific antigen (P = 0.007) were independent predictors of cancer-positive APLs in AA men. Comparative analysis of AA (93/195, 47.7%) vs. W/O (100/194, 52%) showed no difference in the rates of APLs (P = 0.44) or in cancer detection rate within those lesions or the distribution of GS within those cancers (P = 0.63) despite an overall higher cancer detection rate in AA men (AA: 124/195 [63.6%] vs. W/O: 97/194 [50.0%], P = 0.007). In cases where APLs were positive for PCa on FBx, the GS of APL was equal to the highest GS of the entire gland in 82.9% (29/35) and 90.9% (30/33) of the time in AA and W/O men, respectively. Conclusion Cancer-positive APLs represented the highest risk GS in most cases. AA men with prior negative SBx are twice as likely to harbor a concerning APL. In our cohort, AA and W/O men had comparable rates of APLs on mpMRI. Thus, differences in APLs do not explain the higher risk of AA men for deahth due to PCa. However, targeting of APLs via FBx can clinically improve PCa risk stratification and guide appropriate treatment options.
Introduction: Middlebrow Women and Detective Fiction

In Busman’s Honeymoon (1937), the final full-length Lord Peter Wimsey novel, Dorothy L. Sayers explores in detail the dynamics of marriage between two professionals. After their first real fight, Harriet Vane apologizes to Lord Peter, her new husband, by vehemently rejecting any possibility that she will resort to the emotional and sexual tactics she has seen other women use: ‘“My husband would do anything for me. …” It’s degrading. No human being ought to have such power over another.’ ‘It’s a very real power, Harriet.’ ‘Then,’ she flung back passionately, ‘we won’t use it. If we disagree, we’ll fight it out like gentlemen. We won’t stand for matrimonial blackmail.’1
An evaluation of data-driven identification strategies for complex nonlinear dynamic systems

The development of suitable mathematical models on the basis of dynamic measurements from dispersed structural systems that may be undergoing significant nonlinear behavior is an important and very challenging problem in the field of Applied Mechanics that has drawn the attention of numerous investigators and motivated the development of many approaches for extracting reduced-order, reduced-complexity models from such systems. However, even though numerous nonlinear system identification techniques that are focused on the class of problems encountered in the structural dynamics field have been developed over the past decades, there are no systematic studies available that rigorously compare the performance and fidelity of such methods under similar operating conditions, and when encountering challenging nonlinear phenomena (such as hysteresis) that are present in physical systems, at different scales. This paper explores a variety of data-driven identification techniques for complex nonlinear systems and provides a much needed critical comparison of the accuracy and performance of each method. The Volterra/Wiener neural network (VWNN), a more recent development in nonlinear identification, is featured and compared against several existing methods, including polynomial-based nonlinear estimators and other artificial neural network systems. A representative three degree-of-freedom structure with nonlinear restoring force elements is used as the primary means of comparison for the different methods, and a variety of nonlinear models were investigated, including bilinear hysteresis, polynomial stiffness, and Bouc–Wen hysteresis. Performance comparisons were based on the ability to estimate the acceleration responses for both training and testing simulations. The results showed that, in general, the VWNN provided better accuracy in its estimates for each model. The VWNN also performed best when evaluated for scenarios in which numerical integration is required to find velocity and displacement information from measured accelerations or sensor noise is present in the measured responses.
Intermetallic Compounds, Electronic States of

Intermetallic compounds provide a rich and diverse resource to study the structure–composition–property relationships. These significant chemical and physical characteristics are linked via electronic structure, which provides insights about the chemical bonding factors influencing their chemistry and physics. This article summarizes a comprehensive general picture of electronic states in intermetallic compounds, including brief descriptions of specific examples.
Least Information Loss (LIL) Conversion of Digital Images and Lessons Learned for Scientific Image Inspection

Nowadays, most digital images are captured and stored at 16 or 12 bit per pixel integers, however, most personal computers can only display images in 8 bit per pixel integers. Besides, each microarray experiment produces hundreds of images which need larger storage space if images are stored in 16 or 12 bit. This is in most cases done by conversion of single images by an algorithm, which is not apparent to the user. A simple method to avoid the problem is converting 16 or 12-bit images to 8 bit by direct division of the 12-bit intervals into 256 sections and counting the number of points in each of them. Although this approach preserves the proportion of camera signals, it leads to severe loss of information due to losses in intensity depth resolution. The main aim of this article is introducing least information loss (LIL) algorithm as a novel approach to minimize the information loss caused by the transformation the primary camera signals (16 or 12 bit per pixels) to 8 bit per pixel. Least information loss algorithm is based on the omission of unoccupied intensities and transforming remaining points to 8 bit. This approach not only preserve information by storing intervals in the image EXIF file for further analysis, but also it improves object contrast for better visual inspection and object oriented classification. LIL algorithm may be applied also in image series where it enables comparison of primary camera data at scales identical over the whole series. This is particularly important in cases that the coloration is only apparent and reflect various physical processes such as in microscopy imaging.
Balloon Catheter Sinuplasty for Children with Chronic Rhinosinusitis

Several surgical procedures are available for treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis in children
Millimeter Wave Imaging on the KSTAR Tokamak via Simultaneous ECET/MIR

A millimeter wave plasma diagnostic instrument is being developed for the KSTAR tokamak to image electron density fluctuations via microwave imaging reflectometry (MIR), and electron temperature profiles and fluctuations via electron cyclotron emission imaging (ECEI). The 2-D active and passive MMW imaging systems will be capable of simultaneously imaging fluctuations over an extended portion of the KSTAR plasma. System details, including preliminary optical and electronics designs, FSS notch filter, and antenna prototypes, are presented along with a discussion of a number of implementation options which include plasma coverage, spatial resolution, channel numbers, IF and RF bandwidths.
The Classification of Abnormal Behavior

From the beginnings of life, as organisms attempt to understand their environment, they seek to organize a vast array of incoming stimuli. The recognition of similarities and the ordering of objects into sets on the basis of their relationships are primordial classificatory abilities that begin at a crude level but grow ever more discriminating as the organism matures. Even before the advent of Homo sapiens, classification ability must have been a component of fitness in biological evolution (Sokal, 1974). The acquiring of language by humans is clearly the most sophisticated example of this classificatory phenomenon in nature, for it is through learning words that we are able to select, evaluate, and categorize much of the information that bombards us in everyday life. In short, for human beings, words are classification; a sound or combination of sounds (or its representation in print) communicates a specific meaning (Davies, 1970). Because we possess this type of communication, we are able to discriminate a multitude of stimuli into categories that allow us to process, store, and act on additional information at a level no other organism can approach.
The Key Technology of Operation Smart System Seamless Information Integration and Test

Abstract This paper, which is in the pattern of operation smart system integration, with the demand of effective integration of the information flow and breaking through the information blockings between operation systems, mianly reseaches about unified modeling of operation systems as well as the technology of the MMS (Manufacturing Message Specification) seamless information and the testing technique. It not only significantly solves the challenges, which include the unified modeling of operation system and the seamless communication between operation systemgs and smart substations, but also achieves the seamless integration and sharing of the operation smart system information flow. The correctness and effectiveness of the models and methods which are mentioned before, are verified by engineering practice applications.
Signed rank based empirical likelihood for the symmetric location model

Abstract An empirical likelihood approach with an increasing number of bounded signed rank based constraints is derived for inference about the center of symmetry in the symmetric location model. A Wilks type theorem is derived where the number of constraints is allowed to grow at the rate o ( n 2 ∕ 5 ) . This rate is faster than the rate o ( n 1 ∕ 3 ) obtained in Hjort et al. (2009) and Peng and Schick (2013) for bounded constraints.
Project SHINE: effects of a randomized family-based health promotion program on the physical activity of African American parents

This study examined the effects of a family-based health promotion intervention on the moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), light physical activity, sedentary behavior, and fruit and vegetable intake of African American parents. Eighty-nine African American parents (41.5 ± 8.5 years; 92% females; 74% obese; 64% < $40 K income) and adolescents (12.5 ± 1.4 years; 61% girls; 48% obese) were randomized to a 6-week behavioral skills plus positive parenting and peer monitoring intervention grounded in social cognitive, self-determination, and family systems theories or a general health comparison program. Parents wore accelerometers for 7 days and completed three 24-h dietary recalls at baseline and post-intervention. Multilevel regression models (controlling for baseline variables) demonstrated a significantly greater increase in parent MVPA for those in the intervention versus comparison condition (b = 9.44, SE = 4.26, p < 0.05). There were no other significant effects. Family-based approaches that include African American parents and youth may increase parent MVPA and hold promise for preventing chronic diseases.
Preparation of a novel bifunctional chelator AmBaSar based on sarcophagine for Cu-64 radiopharmaceuticals

1943 Objectives To develop versatile cage-like bifunctional chelators with high in vivo stability based on sarcophagine cages for Cu-64 radiopharmaceuticals. Methods A novel sarcophagine caged-like bifunctional chelator, named AmBaSar, was developed. The new chelator containing a hexa-aza cage for Cu-64 radiolabeling and a linker aromatic carboxyl for peptide conjugation was designed and prepared using a conventional synthetic strategy, and characterized by elemental analysis, MS and 1H-NMR. The bifunctional chelator was conjugated with the cyclic peptide RGD, and then labeled with Cu-64 as a prototype agent. Results The AmBaSar was labeled with Cu-64 in pH 5.0 ammonium acetate buffer solution with radiochemical yield ≥ 95% after 60 min incubation on 37 °C. The AmBaSar conjugated cyclic peptide RGD was prepared in 80% yield. Labeling with Cu-64 provided final product in 80% radiochemical yield and 95% radiochemical purity after 60 min. Preliminary biological evaluation of this new Cu-64-chelator in normal mouse demonstrates renal clearance as the primarily mode of excretion. Conclusions The novel versatile sarcophagine caged-like bifunctional chelator AmBaSar was designed, synthesized, and characterized. The new chelator AmBaSar was conjugated with the cyclic peptide RGD, and then labeled with Cu-64 to form the new PET probe Cu-64 AmBaSar-RGD for imaging the ανβ3 integrin receptor.
Medical Management of Chronic Rhinosinusitis in Children and Adults

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is an inflammatory condition affecting the nasal passageways and sinuses lasting over 12 weeks. CRS is treated with multiple medical therapies in children and adults. Topical nasal corticosteroids are recommended for CRS with and without nasal polyps by multiple rhinosinusitis guidelines and evidence-based meta-analyses. The safety profile of nasal corticosteroids is excellent. The majority of studies show no adrenal suppression. Further, no growth suppression is seen in children using low dosages and side effects are generally mild. Nasal saline irrigation has also led to an improvement in symptom scores and quality of life measures using isotonic and hypertonic saline solutions. A Cochrane review states that medical management of CRS is as effective as surgical therapy based on available data. This highlights the important role of specialists in allergy/immunology and otolaryngology that have expertise in the treatment of CRS. Additional high-level evidence is urgently needed to best define optimal treatment strategies and which subgroups of CRS may respond best to the various medical treatments.
Nonparametric Statistical Tests Comparing First Flush and Composite Samples from the National Stormwater Quality Database

The University of Alabama and the Center of Watershed Protection, as part of an EPA 104(b)3 project, has collected and reviewed phase I NPDES (National Polluta…
Intestinal Development and Permeability: Role in Nutrition of Preterm Infants

Preterm birth necessitates that fetal organ development occur in the extra-uterine environment. This circumstance poses significant risk for gastrointestinal (GI) system development as this system doubles in length from 25 to 40 weeks’ gestation. The most severe consequence of preterm intestinal development is necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC)—an inflammatory cascade that leads to ischemia/necrosis of the intestines. This disease is found in 7–10 % of very low birth weight (VLBW) infants and is associated with 33 % mortality and 33 % long-term GI and/or neurodevelopmental morbidity. The two protective factors consistently identified to decrease risk for NEC are prolonged gestation and human milk feeds. Investigation into the mechanism of NEC has dominated the study of preterm infant intestinal development. Within this context, intestinal maturation and specifically intestinal permeability have been studied for 20 years.
AIDS enteropathy : what's in a name ?

The term acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) enteropathy was first used in 1984 to refer to changes in intestinal structure and function in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients. Since then, confusion has arisen regarding the meaning of the term. To identify the sources of this confusion we performed a methodologic critique of published clinical research on the topic. We carried out a literature search to identify clinical studies that included at least 20 subjects. Among the six cross-sectional studies we identified, no consensus exists regarding the term itself, to whom it applies, the elements on which it is based, and the criteria for its definition. Further, methodologic problems pertaining to the selection of cases and controls limited the conclusions that could be drawn from these studies. Alterations of mucosal structure and function occur in some HIV-infected patients. However, the nature of these alterations and their relationships to symptoms (diarrhea), immune function, and enteric pathogens remain unclear. Further research is needed to develop a taxonomy for AIDS enteropathy. In carrying out this research, attention to methodologic issues will be important.
A non-canonical arm of UPRER mediates longevity through ER remodeling and lipophagy

Longevity is dictated by a combination of environmental and genetic factors. One of the key mechanisms implicated in regulating lifespan extension is the ability to induce protein chaperones to promote protein homeostasis. However, it is unclear whether protein chaperones exclusively regulate longevity. Previous work has shown that activating the unfolded protein response of the endoplasmic reticulum (UPR ER ) in neurons can signal peripheral tissues to promote chaperone expression, thus enhancing organismal stress resistance and extending lifespan. Here, we find that this activation not only promotes chaperones, but facilitates a dramatic restructuring of ER morphology in intestinal cells. This restructuring, which includes depletion of lipid droplets, ER expansion, and ER tubulation, depends of lipophagy. Surprisingly, we find that lipophagy is required for lifespan extension and is completely independent of chaperone function. Therefore, UPR induction in neurons triggers two distinct programs in the periphery: the canonical arm through protein chaperones, and a non-canonical mechanism through lipid depletion. In summary, our study identifies lipophagy as an integral component of UPR ER -induced longevity.
Mapping computations

Let Z be a set of integers and Z n×n be a ring for any integer n. We define ${\hat{s}}\in \mathbf{Z}^{n}$ as a latter point. Hom(Z n ,Z m ) denotes as a homomorphism of Z n into Z m . For any element ${\hat{q}}$ in Z n , we define S+T:Z n →Z m as $(S+T)({\hat{q}})=S({\hat{q}})+T({\hat{q}})$ . As a result, S+T become a homomorphism of Z n into Z m . We also define kU:Z n →Z m as $(kU)({\hat{q}})=k(U({\hat{q}}))$ . Consequently, kU become a homomorphism of Z n into Z m . Moreover, Hom (Z n ,Z m ) is isomorphic to Z n×m . A novel class of the structured matrices which is a set of elements of Hom (Z n ,Z n ) over a ring of integers with a displacement structure, referred to as a C-Cauchy-like matrix, will be formulated and presented. Using the displacement approach, which was originally discovered by Kailath, Kung, and Morf (J. Math. Anal. Appl. 68:395–407, 1979), a new superfast algorithm for the multiplication of a C-Cauchy-like matrix of the size n×n over a field with a vector will be designed. The memory space for storing a C-Cauchy-like matrix of the size n×n over a field is O(n) versus O(n 2) for a general matrix of the size n×n over a field. The arithmetic operations of a product of a C-Cauchy-like matrix and a vector is reduced dramatically to O(n) from O(n 2), which can be used to transform a latter point ${\hat{s}}\in Z^{n}$ to another latter point ${\hat{t}}\in Z^{n}$ such that ${\hat{t}}=C{\hat{s}}$ . Moreover, the displacement structure can also be extended to a Kronecker matrix W ⊗ Z. A new class of the Kronecker-like matrices with the displacement rank r, r<n will be also discovered. The memory space for storing a Kronecker-like matrix of the size (n×1)⊗(1×n) over a field is decreased to O(rn). The arithmetic operations for a product of a Kronecker-like matrix with the displacement rank r and a vector is also accelerated to O(rn).
Implementation of deep packet inspection in smart grids and industrial Internet of Things: Challenges and opportunities

Abstract Upgrading a power grid to a smart grid is a challenging task. For example, since power grids were originally developed to support unidirectional communications, the migration process requires architectural and cybersecurity upgrades due to the integration of devices using bidirectional communication. The integration of these devices opens numerous avenues for cyber attacks, although they also enable numerous capabilities in smart grids. To protect the smart grid from cyber threats, it is important for industry and academia to explore and implement practical cybersecurity models together, for example collaboratively designing and developing suitable smart grid testbeds to facilitate research. In this paper, we survey existing literature relating to the infrastructure and communications for the energy sector and smart grids. Specifically, we study existing recommendations and models from government agencies (e.g. NIST and DOE) and academia, and evaluate deep packet inspection (DPI) approaches as a security tool for smart grids. We also propose a conceptual SDN-based security monitoring framework based on SDN, Network Behavior Analysis (NBA), Deep Learning Models, and DPI attack corroboration, as well as a conceptual forensic-driven security monitoring framework where digital forensics and investigation capabilities are integrated to inform security monitoring.
Ludolingüística y uso colaborativo de las TICs: competencias, creencias y actitudes de estudiantes y profesores en un colegio de alto uso de tecnologías didácticas

The aim of this study is to analyze students’ and teachers’ competencies, beliefs, and attitudes concerning (1) the integration of the ludic component and (2) a collaborative use of ICT in a high-tech high-school of Madrid. For this purpose, I propose a qualitative approach to the analysis of two semi-structured questionnaires for teachers and students, triangulated with my personal field notes and an external observer’s considerations. The results highlight, among other things, that competencies shape the beliefs and the didactic decisions of both teachers and students when dealing with these two educational strategies in the teaching-learning process.
Tracheostomy After Severe Acute Brain Injury: Trends and Variability in the USA

Severe acute brain injury (SABI) is responsible for 12 million deaths annually, prolonged disability in survivors, and substantial resource utilization. Little guidance exists regarding indication or optimal timing of tracheostomy after SABI. Our aims were to determine national trends in tracheostomy utilization among mechanically ventilated patients with SABI in the USA, as well as to examine factors associated with tracheostomy utilization following SABI. We conducted a population-based retrospective cohort study using the National Inpatient Sample from 2002 to 2011. We identified adult patients with SABI, defined as a primary diagnosis of stroke, traumatic brain injury or post-cardiac arrest who received mechanical ventilation for greater than 96 h. We analyzed trends in tracheostomy utilization over time and used multilevel mixed-effects logistic regression to analyze factors associated with tracheostomy utilization. There were 94,082 hospitalizations for SABI during the study period, with 30,455 (32%) resulting in tracheostomy utilization. The proportion of patients with SABI who received a tracheostomy increased during the study period, from 28.0% in 2002 to 32.1% in 2011 (p < 0.001). Variation in tracheostomy utilization was noted based on patient and facility characteristics, including higher odds of tracheostomy in large hospitals (OR 1.34, 95% CI 1.18–1.53, p < 0.001, compared to small hospitals), teaching hospitals (OR 1.15, 95% CI 1.06–1.25, p = 0.001, compared to non-teaching hospitals), and urban hospitals (OR 1.60, 95% CI 1.33–1.92, p < 0.001, compared to rural hospitals). Tracheostomy utilization has increased in the USA among patients with SABI, with wide variation by patient and facility-level factors.
Quasi-periodic Geometry for Architectural Acoustics

The discovery of quasi-periodic atomic order in the crystalline state has uncovered an exciting new class of symmetries that has never been explored before. Because of their non-periodic translational order and self-similar properties, quasi-periodic structures offer unique opportunities for investigating questions related to their acoustical behavior. Their unique long-range non-periodic formations have the ability to diffuse and orchestrate the flow of sound energy in many unique ways; offering intriguing potential for innovating a new wave of optimized sound diffusers. One key limitation with available periodic diffusers is that their repeating logic creates repetitive energy loops, which significantly reduce their ability to uniformly disperse sound energy. Quasi-periodic geometry can mitigate such limitation. By encapsulating an infinite variety of distinct profiles in all directions, quasi-periodic surfaces can eliminate the formation of bundled or looped reflections; considerably enhancing the ability of the diffuser to uniformly disperse sound energy. To investigate this hypothesis, an experimental approach is used to simulate sound reflection patterns of the quasi-periodic surface profiles using a ray tracing method. Both qualitative and quantitative analyses are used to interpret the simulated results. The international Standards (ISO) metrics are used to validate the proposed approach and verify the results. Results show that the diffusion quality of the tested quasi-periodic surface is superior to the diffusion performance of the tested periodic surface.
Mouse strain-specific acute respiratory effects of nicotine unrelated to nicotine metabolism.

Plethysmograph measurement of respiratory phenotypes provides a highly sensitive means to study nicotine response in experimental model animals. We measured average respiratory frequency, tidal vol...
Rapid Seismic Risk Assessment of Structures with Gaussian Process Regression

Risk assessment of structures is an important step to predict damages and losses during natural hazards. The main idea is to fit fragility functions from existing earthquake records. Considerable research has been conducted in this area and various fitting approaches have been suggested. However, existing methods for deriving fragility functions require large training data sets and are designed for a single type of structures each time. This study aims to provide the loss estimation data using supervised learning techniques with a limited amount of observations. Observations are made after the strike of the earthquake based on the responses obtained from randomly selected damaged structures. These observations are used to train the model and prediction of the responses are made for the rest of the structures in the area. A case study is conducted based on the Fukushima 2011 earthquake. It is shown that Gaussian Process Regression (GPR), can provide an integrated model prediction for a group of structures with high accuracy and low uncertainties. This way, not only the predictions are made by a single model for different types of structures, but also the number of observations is very small compared to the existing methods.
Veterans’ Transition Out of the Military and Knowledge of Mental Health Disorders

There is a need for research to understand veteran’s mental health and how they use resources, like the Veteran’s Affairs and non-profit organizations. This study serves to further our understanding about veterans’ knowledge on this subject. This study adds to the literature by conducting semi-structured interviews with 15 veterans who had deployed on either United States military bases or ships, or peace-keeping missions, overseas after 9/11. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and thoroughly analyzed using a narrative approach. Five important themes emerged from the interviews: prevalence of mental health disorders, knowledge of disorders and resources, barriers to seeking help, types of resources available, and motivations to seek help. Although this study aimed to explicitly understand knowledge, the inductive research process produced four other themes that became pivotal in understanding why veterans were skeptical to seek help.
Multi-junction solar cells by Intermetallic Bonding and interconnect of Dissimilar Materials: GaAs/Si

Abstract We present a novel, low temperature approach to multijunction solar cell fabrication combining the high efficiency multi-junction concept with the low cost of thin film technology in one solar cell structure. The intermetallic bonding approach presented is based on joining indium metal which has been deposited on the metal contact grid of the respective solar cells. This approach avoids the problems of lattice mismatch and tunnel junction limitations, connecting solar cells of potentially any material with patterned contacts. No measurable increase in resistance has been measured between bonded materials. This method allows the independent development of each cell technology for use in multijunction solar cells. This technique can be applied to any commercial off-the-shelf solar cells, if available. A GaAs/Si multijunction solar cell bonded using this approach is demonstrated. The silicon cell is off-the-shelf with textured surface and commercial metal contacts. This is integrated with an in-house grown thin film GaAs cell. The GaAs/Si device is demonstrated in both two and three terminal configurations.
Liquidity shocks: A new solution to the forward premium puzzle

Abstract The frequent empirical failure of uncovered interest rate parity raises a question that has not been definitively answered: why do predictable excess returns on currencies persist in competitive currency markets? Supported by data from nine major currencies for 1978:08–2019:09, I provide a novel resolution to this enduring forward premium puzzle by building on the financial economics literature that explores the economic implications of limited access to capital markets. A liquidity shock, or the urgent demand for liquidity by credit-constrained arbitragers liquidating bond holdings, causes losses from sudden drops in bond prices. Arbitragers require a liquidity premium to compensate for potential losses that vary directly with the interest rate. It is this liquidity premium that explains persistent excess returns on currencies. I argue for policies favoring a low interest rate environment and macroprudential controls that ease liquidity constraints to increase the efficiency of international capital markets by reducing the liquidity premium.
Operational principles and effect of operating parameters on performance of metal hydride heat pumps.

Abstract Metal hydride heat pumps are a group of chemical heat pumps that rely on exothermic and endothermic reactions of hydrogen absorption and desorption in metal hydrides for their operation. They have several advantages like utilizing waste heat as their energy source, less vibration and noise as compared to vapor-compression based heat pumps, and lower maintenance cost. However, their capital cost is higher than conventional heat pumps which is mostly due to the cost of materials. By addressing the cost issue, metal hydride heat pumps can be proper substitutes for vapor-compression based systems with increased energy efficiency by using the waste heat of other thermal systems. This paper initially presents operational principles of metal hydride heat pumps and then summarizes effect of different operational parameters on the performance of a MHHP.
“I Want to Speak to a White Person”: Daily Microaggressions and Resilient Leadership:

This case study blends the accounts of 10 Black women who engaged in a research study on their experiences of microaggressions when serving as school leaders, to tell the story of one Black female ...
Invasive pneumococcal disease in Canada 2010-2017: The role of current and next-generation higher-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccines.

BACKGROUND In 2010-2011, the 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) replaced the 7- or 10-valent vaccine (PCV7 and PCV10, respectively) in pediatric immunization programs across Canada. For adults aged ≥65 years, the 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23) has been publicly funded for several decades; PCV13 funding was not recommended in this population, partly due to expected ongoing vaccine-serotype disease decline stemming from herd effects of the pediatric program. Higher-valent PCVs (ie, 15- and 20-valent PCVs [PCV15 and PCV20, respectively]) currently in development may become available in Canada in the coming years. METHODS Using the National Microbiology Laboratory surveillance reports, annual case counts and serotype distribution of invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) from 2010 to 2017 in Canada were examined to assess the impact of existing programs on PCV13-serotype IPD and determine the proportion of IPD that can potentially be prevented by current and forthcoming higher-valent PCVs. RESULTS The percentages of PCV13-serotype IPD decreased from 55% [1492/2708] in 2010 to 30% [902/3006] in 2017 in all age groups combined, including a decline from 67% [221/331] to 18% [40/219] in children aged <5 years and from 50% [487/967] to 23% [287/1238] in adults aged ≥65 years. Overall, IPD cases declined mainly before 2014 and have plateaued since then. In 2017, PCV15- and PCV20-serotypes (inclusive of PCV13 serotypes) accounted for 42% and 58% of IPD cases, respectively, in all ages. CONCLUSIONS In Canada, publicly funded pediatric PCV13 use was associated with large declines in IPD due to vaccine serotypes. Substantial residual PCV13-serotype IPD proportions observed among all ages imply limits to indirect protection afforded by the pediatric PCV13 program at the current uptake level and suggest the adult PPSV23 program alone is insufficient. Higher-valent PCVs have the potential to address a substantial proportion of remaining IPD cases among all age groups.
Carbon Bonding Controls the Electron and Phonon Thermal Conductivity in High Entropy Carbides

Due to their diverse bonding character and corresponding property repertoire, carbides are an important class of materials regularly used in modern technologies, including aerospace applications and extreme environments, catalysis, fuel cells, power electronics, and solar cells. The recent push for novel materials has increased interest in high entropy carbides (HECs) for such applications. The extreme level of tunability alone makes HECs a significant materials platform for a variety of fundamental studies and functional applications. We investigate the thermal conductivity of high entropy carbide thin films as carbon stoichiometry is varied. The thermal conductivity of the HEC decreases with an increase in carbon stoichiometry, while the respective phonon contribution scales with elastic modulus changes as the excess carbon content increases. Based on the carbon content, the HECs transition from an electrically conducting metal-like material with primarily metallic bonding to a primarily covalently bonded crystal with thermal conductivities largely dominated by the phononic sub-system. When the carbon stoichiometry is increased above this critical transition threshold dictating bonding character, the electronic contribution to thermal conductivity is minimized and remains at a constant, and a combination of changes in film morphology and phase precipitation systematically lower the phononic contribution to thermal conductivity. This trend in thermal conductivity with carbon content in the HECs is opposite to those observed in binary metal carbide systems. Our results demonstrate the ability to tune the thermal functionality of high entropy materials through stoichiometries that dictate the type of bonding environment.
New class of Lindley distributions: properties and applications

A new generalized class of Lindley distribution is introduced in this paper. This new class is called the T-Lindley{Y} class of distributions, and it is generated by using the quantile functions of uniform, exponential, Weibull, log-logistic, logistic and Cauchy distributions. The statistical properties including the modes, moments and Shannon’s entropy are discussed. Three new generalized Lindley distributions are investigated in more details. For estimating the unknown parameters, the maximum likelihood estimation has been used and a simulation study was carried out. Lastly, the usefulness of this new proposed class in fitting lifetime data is illustrated using four different data sets. In the application section, the strength of members of the T-Lindley{Y} class in modeling both unimodal as well as bimodal data sets is presented. A member of the T-Lindley{Y} class of distributions outperformed other known distributions in modeling unimodal and bimodal lifetime data sets.