cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Integrating mobile culture into computing education

The term ‘mobile culture’ describes the evergrowing influence that mobile devices, media and communication have on our day-to-day activities. Current generation of young people is often considered as one of the primary forces helping sustain the evolution of mobile technology, because young people represent a very substantial portion of early adopters and active users of mobile devices, applications, and games. For most college students, electronic gadgets and computer games have always been an integral part of their lives. Consequently, they may perceive mobile devices as true exemplars of the current technology, instead of the desktops that dominate most computer labs. This paper attempts to illustrate the reasons and the possibility of using mobile devices and mobile game development as a learning context and a motivational tool in the computing curriculum.
Viscoelastic effects on interfacial dynamics in air–liquid displacement under gravity stabilization

We have investigated the role of liquid elasticity in the dynamics of air–liquid interfaces during immiscible fluid displacement flows. Our experimental studies of coating flows with gravity stabilization in an eccentric cylinder geometry for both a viscous Newtonian fluid and a series of elastic Boger fluids have uncovered two new elastically driven phenomena. First, elasticity is shown to create steady, two-dimensional ‘sharp interfaces’ under creeping flow conditions in forward-roll coating. Digital particle image velocimetry (DPIV) and DEVSS finite element techniques are applied to investigate the effect of gravity on both the flow field and the state of polymeric stresses near the free surface. Secondly, a new class of elastically driven stable substructures is shown to form and persist along the tip, i.e. the centre stagnation line, of the two-dimensional `sharp interfaces' even after the onset of ribbing.
Recognition of Suicide Lethality and Attitudes toward Suicide in Mental Health Professionals

The relationship between knowledge about suicide lethality and attitudes toward suicide was explored in a sample of 280 mental health professionals representing eight groups: physicians, psychiatrists, clinical psychologists, psychiatric nurses, social workers, crisis interventionists, counselors, and clergy. The results indicated significant group differences, with psychiatrists, psychologists, and crisis interventionists showing a significantly greater degree of knowledge; clergy scored lowest of all groups. Knowledge was related to attitudes such that those who recognize a greater number of signs of suicide tend to view suicide as acceptable and as a reaction to external environmental aspects rather than as a reflection of manipulation or a self-destructive drive; they believe the elderly and those who are “different” have a greater suicide risk and see suicide as a cry for help.
Estimating the Impact of Mental Illness on Costs of Crimes: A Matched Samples Comparison

This study uses a propensity scoring and matching approach to compare the costs of crimes committed by former inmates with mental illness (MI) and without MI. Our findings indicate that the recidiv...
E-books in academic libraries: Challenges for sharing and use

This paper reviews the recent literature on e-book sharing and use in post-secondary libraries, exploring current restrictions on viewing, printing, downloading, circulation, and interlibrary loan....
Dielectric Breakdown of Polymeric Insulations Aged at High Temperatures

Most of electric insulation materials used in power generation and energy storage are polymeric dielectric materials: winding insulations in power transformers, electric starter/generators, electric actuators, high frequency resonators, and power converters; dielectric films in power capacitors or energy storage devices; encapsulation in electronic components and devices. These polymeric dielectric materials have limited continuous use temperatures because of their electrical properties deteriorating at high temperatures. The temperature dependence and thermal aging effect on their dielectric breakdown are of prime concern for analyzing their failure mechanism to prevent catastrophic breakdown of the power system in aviation and military platforms. In this paper, the thermal aging effect on breakdown strength, mechanical properties and physical features of various polymeric insulations, such as polyimide (PI), polyetherimide (PEI), polyetheretherketones (PEEK), and perfluoroalkoxy (PFA) films, will be presented and discussed.
Structure and Self Assembly of a Retrovirus (FeLV) Proline Rich Neutralization Domain

The 60 amino acid proline-rich neutralization domain of the external surface unit glycoprotein of feline leukemia virus was chemically synthesized in total and in fragments. We examined the ability of these retroviral peptides to form ordered conformations using 1H-NMR, circular dichroism spectroscopy, and intrinsic viscosity measurements. One dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy revealed that the 60 amino acid peptide could form a stable, folded structure that was long-lived, as shown by the ability to protect amide-protons in D20. Peptides corresponding to the N-terminal 42, N-terminal 20 amino acids, and middle 20 amino acid sections could also form stable structures. The C-terminal segment did not protect any protons in D20. Interestingly, self assembly of the N-terminal 42 and C-terminal 16 amino acid peptides into a structure very close to that of the 60 amino acid domain was observed. The circular dichroism results reveals a large negative cotton effect at 198 nm that is characteristic of the proline-rich beta-turn helixes which consist predominantly of trans-proline. The intrinsic viscosity results suggest a non-random coil structure that is rod shaped. Our conclusion is that PRN60 forms a beta-turn helix and that this region of FeLV-gp70 is a separate folding domain of the retroviral surface unit glycoprotein. The unique conformational properties of PRN60 and its critical role as the predominant target for neutralizing antibody responses suggest that this peptide is a reasonable candidate for producing a synthetic peptide vaccine for FeLV.
Distributed cross-layer algorithms for the optimal control of multihop wireless networks

In this paper, we provide and study a general framework that facilitates the development of distributed mechanisms to achieve full utilization of multihop wireless networks. In particular, we describe a generic randomized routing, scheduling, and flow control scheme that allows for a set of imperfections in the operation of the randomized scheduler to account for potential errors in its operation. These imperfections enable the design of a large class of low-complexity and distributed implementations for different interference models. We study the effect of such imperfections on the stability and fairness characteristics of the system and explicitly characterize the degree of fairness achieved as a function of the level of imperfections. Our results reveal the relative importance of different types of errors on the overall system performance and provide valuable insight to the design of distributed controllers with favorable fairness characteristics. In the second part of the paper, we focus on a specific interference model, namely the secondary interference model, and develop distributed algorithms with polynomial communication and computation complexity in the network size. This is an important result given that earlier centralized throughput-optimal algorithms developed for such a model relies on the solution to an NP-hard problem at every decision. This results in a polynomial complexity cross-layer algorithm that achieves throughput optimality and fair allocation of network resources among the users. We further show that our algorithmic approach enables us to efficiently approximate the capacity region of a multihop wireless network.
Fiducial-free CyberKnife stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) for single vertebral body metastases: acceptable local control and normal tissue tolerance with 5 fraction approach.

This retrospective analysis examines the local control and toxicity of 5 fraction fiducial-free CyberKnife stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) for single vertebral body metastases. All patients had favorable performance status (ECOG 0-1), oligometastatic disease and no prior spine irradiation. A prescribed dose of 30 to 35 Gy was delivered in 5 fractions to the planning treatment volume (PTV) using the CyberKnife with X-sight spine tracking. Suggested maximum spinal cord and esophagus point doses were 30 Gy and 40 Gy, respectively. A median 30 Gy (range, 30 - 35 Gy) dose was delivered to a median prescription isodose line of 70% (range, 60 - 80%) to 20 patients. At 34 months median follow-up (range, 12-62 months) for surviving patients, the 1- and 2-year Kaplan-Meier local control estimates were 80% and 73%, respectively. Two of the 5 local failures were infield in patients who had received partial vertebral body irradiation and 3 were paravertebral failures just outside the PTV in patients with prior corpectomy. No local failures occurred in patients who completed total vertebral body radiation alone. The 1- and 2-year Kaplan-Meier overall survival estimates were 80% and 57%, respectively. Most deaths were attributed to metastatic disease; one death was attributed to local recurrence. The mean maximum point doses were 26.4 Gy (range, 16.3 - 31.8 Gy) to the spinal cord and 30.7 Gy (15.4- 40.0 Gy) to the esophagus. Patients receiving maximum esophagus point doses greater than 35 Gy experienced acute dysphagia (Grade I/II). No spinal cord toxicity was documented. Five fraction fiducial-free CyberKnife SBRT is an acceptable treatment option for newly diagnosed vertebral body metastases with promising local control rates and minimal toxicity despite the close proximity of such tumors to the spinal cord and esophagus. A prospective study aimed at further enhancing local control by targeting the entire intact vertebral body and escalating the total dose is planned
Selective solid state photooxidant

Irradiation of biphenyl encapsulated in the cavities of a NaZSM-5 zeolite framework has been reported to result in the formation of an extremely long-lived radical cation. Here, we show that such zeolite encapsulated radical cations can act as irreversible one-electron oxidants for simple alkenes and dienes, in a solid-state analogue to solution-phase cosensitization. Compared to the well-known semiconductor photooxidizers, such as titanium dioxide, the NaZSM-5 zeolite-based solid photooxidants exhibit enhanced selectivity based on oxidation potential, molecular size and shape, and Lewis base character.
Designing and Piloting a Leadership Daily Practice Log: Using Logs to Study the Practice of Leadership

This article aims to validate the Leadership Daily Practice (LDP) log, an instrument for conducting research on leadership in schools. Using a combination of data sources—namely, a daily practice log, observations, and open-ended cognitive interviews—the authors evaluate the validity of the LDP log. Formal and informal leaders were asked to complete the LDP log for 2 weeks; observers shadowed a subsample of leaders in each school, 1 day per week. Using the three sources of data, the authors analyzed interview responses (specifically, the participants’ interpretations of the log); they matched log entries with observer recordings; and they compared (a) the characteristics of the social interactions that were entered into the log with (b) the overall sample of interactions that occurred while observers shadowed participants. The study shows that LDP log entries capture school leadership interactions as recorded by independent observers; it also demonstrates that study participants, with some exceptions, were not biased toward reporting certain types of interactions over others. Still, some log terminologies were problematic for participants, as was the limited sampling period of 2 weeks. The authors propose ways to (a) change the LDP log to reflect the concerns raised by participants in the cognitive interviews and (b) alter the sampling scheme to capture leadership around the school year. The LDP log is less costly and time-consuming than in-depth ethnographic studies, and it is an important tool for researchers who aim to collect data in schools, one that reaches beyond surveys.
Light Treatment for NASA Shiftworkers

Intense artificial light can phase-shift circadian rhythms and improve performance, sleep, and well-being during shiftwork simulations. In real shiftworkers, however, exposure to sunlight and other time cues may decrease the efficacy of light treatment, and occupational and family responsibilities may make it impractical. With these considerations in mind, we designed and tested light-treatment protocols for NASA personnel who worked on shifted schedules during two Space Shuttle missions. During the prelaunch week, treatment subjects self-administered light of approximately 10,000 lux at times of day that phase-delay circadian rhythms. Treatment continued during the missions and for several days afterward. No treatment was administered to subjects in the control group. Treatment subjects reported better sleep, performance, and physical and emotional well-being than control subjects and rated the treatment as highly effective for promoting adjustment to their work schedules. Light treatment is both feasible and beneficial for NASA personnel who must work on shifted schedules during Space Shuttle missions.
High-Risk Percutaneous Coronary Interventions in Modern Day Clinical Practice: Current Concepts and Challenges

At its inception, all percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) were considered high risk. The initial US experience published by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Registry reported procedural success to be <60% and the need for emergent coronary bypass surgery occurring 6% of the time.1 It was mandatory to have a cardiothoracic surgeon immediately available and an operating room open and ready to go. These outcomes involving a far less complex, lower risk population compared with patients we currently treat would be completely unacceptable today. The evolution of coronary interventions has been remarkable during the past decades attributable to the refinement and development of new device technologies, imaging capabilities, adjunctive pharmacotherapies and the explosive growth in physician and catheterization laboratory team experience. This has resulted in a greatly expanded population who can now be treated by PCI, including sicker patients often with more complex anatomic lesions. Overall reported procedural success rates are now expected to approach 100% and complication rates continue to trend toward or <1%. With this history and in our current environment of expanding databases, public reporting, cost-sensitive resource use, and increased patient expectations, the concept and reality of high-risk PCI continues to evolve. First and foremost, it is helpful to differentiate complex PCI from high-risk PCI. The interventional cardiovascular community has spent a great deal of effort defining, classifying, and attempting to understand how to best treat patients presenting for complex PCI. The term complex PCI is a descriptor applied to patients presenting with complex, anatomic coronary lesions. These lesions may have a variety of defining characteristics such as severe calcification, extensive thrombotic burden, extreme tortuosity or length, or might be chronically, totally occluded. The lesion location might be located at a coronary bifurcation or in a degenerated saphenous venous bypass graft. Analysis derived from large …
SIMULATION-BASED DESIGN OF EXOSKELETONS USING MUSCULOSKELETAL ANALYSIS

Exoskeletons are a new class of articulated mechanical systems whose performance is realized while in intimate contact with the human user. The overall performance depends on many factors including selection of architecture, device, parameters and the nature of the coupling to the human, offering numerous challenges to design-evaluation and refinement. In this paper, we discuss merger of techniques from the musculoskeletal analysis and simulation-based design to study and analyze the performance of such exoskeletons. A representative example of a simplified exoskeleton interacting with and assisting the human arm is used to illustrate principal ideas. Overall, four different case-scenarios are developed and examined with quantitative performance measures to evaluate the effectiveness of the design and allow for design refinement. The results show that augmentation by way of the exoskeleton can lead to a significant reduction in muscle loading.© 2010 ASME
Metal salt catalyzed carbenoids

The subject of homogeneous metal-salt-catalyzed carbenoid reactions has received surprisingly little attention and the major studies, originating in only a few research groups, have only appeared during the last ten years. Only two reviews have come into the author’s hands2,4 which have to any extent been devoted to the broader subject of catalyzed reactions of diazoalkanes which lead to carbenoid reactions. Numerous reviews with partial treatments exist, however. The surprising aspect of this is that metals and metal salts have been used to decompose diazoalkanes since 1906 at least5 and it was recognized by 1952 that these processes were different from those obtained by thermolyses or photolyses of diazoalkanes, which have long been presumed to proceed via carbenes.6
Calculations of the Effects of Methyl Groups on the Energy Differences between Cyclooctatetraene and Bicyclo[4.2.0]octa-2,4,7-triene and between Their Iron Tricarbonyl Complexes

In accord with experiment, DFT calculations find that cyclooctatetraene (COT, 1a) is lower in energy than its valence isomer, bicyclo[4.2.0]octa-2,4,7-triene (BCOT, 3a) and that the iron tricarbony...
Analysis on epidemic trend of viral hepatitis in Haimen City from 2005-2012

[Objective]To analyze the epidemic trend of viral hepatitis in Haimen City from 2005-2012,provide the basis for making the prevention strategies and measures.[Methods]The epidemic data of viral hepatitis in Haimen City from 2005-2012 were analyzed. The annual percent changes(APC) of incidence rate of viral hepatitis were estimated by the linear regression model. [Results]During 2005-2012,the incidence rate of undifferentiated type hepatitis had decreased(P 0. 01),with APC of-21. 10%,while the incidence rate of hepatitis E had increased(P 0. 05),with APC of 23. 49%. Most of patients with viral hepatitis were people aged 35-49 years old,and the male to female ratio was 2. 54∶ 1. 73. 92% of patients with viral hepatitis were farmers and workers,and there was seasonal difference.[Conclusion]The comprehensive prevention and control measures,such as immunization,are effective methods to control the epidemic situation of viral hepatitis. Meanwhile,it is necessary to strengthen the typing report of viral hepatitis,as well as the surveillance and early warning of hepatitis E.
The Influence of Childhood Adversity on Rural Black Men's Sexual Risk Behavior.

Young Black men living in resource-poor rural environments are disproportionately affected by both adverse childhood experiences and HIV/STIs. The influence of childhood adversity on sexual risk behavior remains to be examined among this vulnerable population. In this study, we investigated the influence of overall adversity as well as three subcomponents, abusive parenting, parental neglect, and witnessing family violence, on men’s engagement in sexual risk behavior. We hypothesized that adverse experiences would predict engagement in sexual risk behaviors including multiple sexual partnerships, inconsistent condom use, frequent sexual activity, and concurrent substance abuse and sexual activity. We tested formally the extent to which defensive relational schemas mediated these associations. Hypotheses were tested with data from 505 rural Black men (M age = 20.29, SD = 1.10) participating in the African American Men’s Health Project. Participants were recruited using respondent-driven sampling. Self-report data were gathered from participants via audio computer-assisted self-interviews. Bi-factor analyses revealed that, in addition to a common adversity factor, neglect independently predicted sexual risk behavior. Men’s defensive relational schemas partially mediated the influence of the common adversity factor as well as the neglect subcomponent on sexual risk behavior. The present research identified a potential risk factor for sexual risk behavior in an understudied and vulnerable population. Adverse childhood experiences in general, and neglect in particular, may place many young Black men at risk for engaging in sexual risk behavior due in part to the influence of these experiences on men’s development of relational schemas characterized by defensiveness and mistrust.
Vibrational properties of the Si(100)2×1 surface

The vibrational properties of the reconstructed Si(100)2\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}1 surface have been studied using a Keating model and a dimer-bond description of the reconstructed surface. This model is sufficiently flexible that the effects of variations in surface geometry and force constants can be examined easily. Calculations have been made of the on-site and the intersite vibrational correlation functions and also of the wave-vector-dependent eigenstates which are localized in the surface region. The calculations were performed using a technique which involves Fourier transforming the dynamical matrix parallel to the surface and making recursion calculations perpendicular to it. Calculations were made for varying surface dimer force constants and tilt angle. A number of interesting modes have been found to be localized in the surface region, and aspects of their features have been related to the surface geometry and bonding. The surface correlation functions exhibit significant anisotropy, temperature dependence, and intersite correlation. The present results are compared with the results of other calculations, and their implications for understanding such experimental data as high-energy ion scattering are discussed.
Analysis and design of a novel parallel-driven MQW-DBR surface-emitting diode laser

Efficient surface-emitting lasers are desired for applications in optical signal processing, communication, IC interconnection, and computing. Steady progress has been reported over the past few years1–4, but, to the authors knowledge, a practical design which has output/input characteristics comparable to in-plane diode lasers has not been discussed. We discuss a surface-normal AlGaAs distributed Bragg reflector (DBR) laser, which utilizes parallel connections to a pinipini... active region for electrical drive and quarterwave mirror stacks for feedback as indicated in Fig. 1. In simple terms, the geometry can be viewed as an in-plane multiquantum-well (MQW) laser that is sliced into many longitudinal pieces, which are stacked on top of one another and driven in parallel. Thus it is not surprising that its threshold current and output power can be comparable to an in-plane laser of the same junction area, even though the net length of the active section in the vertical direction is ≤5 μm. Efforts to fabricate this structure have unearthed no significant difficulties. In fact, it appears simpler to fabricate than other geometries that have already been demonstrated1–4, since no regrowths are required. We are using MBE growth for vertical layer definition, reactive ion etching for uniform vertical columns, and side diffusion for parallel connections to the alternating p- and n-type drive layers.
The Discursive Justification of European Integration

This chapter presents a detailed qualitative analysis of the content of parliamentary debate in five thematic areas that are analyzed and compared as case studies for the questions asked in this book. The primary aim is to give a detailed description of the main arguments and the relative importance of different discursive frames that are used in parliamentary debate to justify and to challenge the decisions and institutions of the EU. The main puzzle addressed in this chapter is how aspects of diversity and similarity combine in the debates of four legislatures and five different thematic areas: does the public debate between members of national parliaments about questions of EU governance present itself as a kaleidoscope of different views and arguments about Europe, or do we observe similar patterns of justification for European integration across countries? Are various aspects of European integration framed in very different or similar ways in debate, and what role does the reference to norms and interests play in a comparison of constitutional and policy-specific topics?
Test Strategies for Gated Clock Designs

One of the ways often used to design for low-power consumption during functional operation in CMOS devices is to gate off clocks to areas of logic not needed for the current state of operation. By gating off clocks to state elements that are known to not need updating, the dynamic switching current can be reduced compared with allowing state elements to update when you don’t care what they contain. When clocks are gated, some amount of DFT is necessary to ensure ATPG can be used to create meaningful tests. This chapter describes some of the DFT approaches that can be applied so ATPG can deal with gated clocks. In addition, this chapter explores ways in which functional clock gating may be exploited to help reduce power during test.
Pulmonary Artery Pseudoaneurysms: Clinical Features and CT Findings.

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this study was to analyze the clinical and CT features of pulmonary artery pseudoaneurysms (PAPs). MATERIALS AND METHODS. A database search of chest CT examinations performed from January 1, 2000 to December 31, 2014 identified 24 patients with findings consistent with PAPs. A CT finding consistent with a PAP was defined as a focal saccular outpouching of a pulmonary artery. Medical records were reviewed to determine clinical presentations, treatments, and outcomes. CT scans were reviewed by two board-certified fellowship-trained chest radiologists. RESULTS. A total of 35 PAPs were identified in 24 patients. Hemoptysis and shortness of breath were the most common presenting symptoms. The most commonly identified causes of PAPs were infection (33%), neoplasms (13%), and trauma (17%). Of the 35 PAPs, 29 (83%) were located in segmental or subsegmental pulmonary arteries. A solitary PAP was identified in 20 (83%) patients, and multiple PAPs were identified in three patients with endo...
Sarin (GB, O-isopropyl methylphosphonofluoridate) neurotoxicity: critical review

Sarin (GB, O-isopropyl methylphosphonoﬂuoridate) is a potent organophosphorus (OP) nerve agent that inhibits acetylcholinesterase (AChE) irreversibly. The subsequent build-up of acetylcholine (ACh) in the central nervous system (CNS) provokes seizures and, at sufficient doses, centrally-mediated respiratory arrest. Accumulation of ACh at peripheral autonomic synapses leads to peripheral signs of intoxication and overstimulation of the muscarinic and nicotinic receptors, which is described as "cholinergic crisis" (i.e. diarrhea, sweating, salivation, miosis, bronchoconstriction). Exposure to high doses of sarin can result in tremors, seizures, and hypothermia. More seriously, build-up of ACh at neuromuscular junctions also can cause paralysis and ultimately peripherally-mediated respiratory arrest which can lead to death via respiratory failure. In addition to its primary action on the cholinergic system, sarin possesses other indirect effects. These involve the activation of several neurotransmitters including gamma-amino-butyric acid (GABA) and the alteration of other signaling systems such as ion channels, cell adhesion molecules, and inflammatory regulators. Sarin exposure is associated with symptoms of organophosphate-induced delayed neurotoxicity (OPIDN) and organophosphate-induced chronic neurotoxicity (OPICN). Moreover, sarin has been involved in toxic and immunotoxic effects as well as organophosphate-induced endocrine disruption (OPIED). The standard treatment for sarin-like nerve agent exposure is post-exposure injection of atropine, a muscarinic receptor antagonist, accompanied by an oxime, an AChE reactivator, and diazepam.
On-chip nanoplasmonic biosensors with actively controlled nanofluidic surface delivery

Performances of surface biosensors are often controlled by the analyte delivery rate to the sensing surface instead of sensors intrinsic detection capabilities. In a microfluidic channel, analyte transports diffusively to the biosensor surface severely limiting its performance. At low concentrations, this limitation, commonly known as mass transport problem, causes impractically long detection times extending from days to months. In this proceeding, we propose and demonstrate a hybrid biosensing platform merging nanoplasmonics and nanofluidics. Unlike conventional approaches where the analytes simply stream pass over the sensing surface, our platform enables targeted delivery of analytes to the sensing surface. Our detection platform is based on extraordinary light transmission effect (EOT) in suspended plasmonic nanohole arrays. The subwavelength size nanoholes here act as nanofluidic channels connecting the microfluidic chambers on both sides of the sensors. In order to materialize our detection platform, we also introduce a novel multilayered micro/nanofluidics scheme allowing three dimensional control of the fluidic flow. Using our platform, we show 14-fold improvement in mass transport rate constant appearing in the exponential term. To fabricate these biosensors, we also introduce a lift-off free plasmonic device fabrication technique based on positive resist electron beam lithography. Simplicity of this fabrication technique allows us to fabricate nanostructures with ease, high yield/reproducibility and minimal surface roughness. As a result, we achieve higher refractive index sensitivities. This fabrication technique can find wide range of applications in nanoplasmonics field by eliminating the need for operationally slow and expensive focused ion beam lithography.
When Sharing a Laugh Means Sharing More: Testing the Role of Shared Laughter on Short-Term Interpersonal Consequences

Laughter is a common social behavior. Yet when, why, and how laughter may cause positive relationship change is largely unexamined, empirically. The current studies focus on shared laughter (i.e., when), drawing from theory in relationship science to emphasize the importance of conceptualizing laughter as situated within the dyadic context (i.e., why). Specifically, these studies target untested possible short-term outcomes from social interactions involving shared laughter: positive emotions, negative emotions, and perceived similarity. In turn, each are tested as possible mechanisms through which shared laughter promotes more global relationship well-being (i.e., how). A series of online and laboratory studies provide correlational and causal support for the hypothesis that shared laughter promotes relationship well-being, with increased perceptions of similarity most consistently driving this effect. Discussion focuses on the importance of considering the behavior of laughter itself, as situated within the social context, when making predictions about laughter’s relevance for social life.
Efficient In-Memory Processing Using Spintronics

As the overhead of data retrieval becomes forbidding, bringing processor logic to the memory where the data reside becomes more energy-efficient. While traditional CMOS structures are unsuited to the tight integration of logic and memory, emerging spintronic technologies show remarkable versatility. This paper introduces a novel spintronics-based processing-in-memory (PIM) framework called computational RAM (CRAM) to solve data-intensive computing problems.
Fast recursive least square-based active and reactive power estimator for single-phase power electronic converters

This paper proposes a novel estimator for active and reactive power control of single-phase power electronic applications. The proposed estimator includes: 1) an instantaneous grid power regression model; 2) a fast upper-triangular and diagonal recursive least square (FUDRLS) algorithm for parameter identification of the regression model; and 3) a new self-tuning variable forgetting factor included in the FUDRLS to optimize its performance. The proposed estimator is capable of quick and accurate active/reactive power estimation. Due to its low complexity, numerical stability, the proposed method is suitable for the real-time embedded system to estimate active and reactive powers for control applications of the grid-connected converters. Simulation results are provided to validate the proposed estimation method of single-phase power electronic converters.
The Politics of Litigation

Litigation is part of the American policymaking playbook as diverse groups routinely turn to courts to pursue their agendas. All of this litigation raises questions about its consequences. This essay examines the literature on the political risks of litigation. It argues that this literature identifies four potential risks – crowd out, path dependence, backlash, and individualization – but offers less insight into the likelihood of these risks in practice. It ends by offering suggestions about how to advance our understanding of when litigation casts a negative political shadow in the current age of judicialization.
Resistance In Unsteady Flow: Search For an In-line Force Model

This paper offers an improvement to the Morison, O'Brien, Johnson, and Schaaf (MOJS, 1950) representation of the in-line force for a sinusoidally oscillating flow. The modification proposed herein consists of the addition of a third term, without the introduction of additional empirical coefficients. The three-term model is expected to offer greater universality and higher engineering reliability, particularly in the inertia-drag regime where the original MOJS equation fails.
Yeast lifespan variation correlates with cell growth and SIR2 expression

Isogenic wild type yeast cells raised in controlled environments display a significant range of lifespan variation. Recent microfluidic studies suggest that differential growth or gene expression patterns may explain some of the heterogeneity of aging assays. Herein, we sought to complement this work by similarly examining a large set of replicative lifespan data from traditional plate assays. In so doing, we reproduced the finding that short-lived cells tend to arrest at senescence with a budded morphology. Further, we found that wild type cells born unusually small did not have an extended lifespan. However, large birth size and/or high inter-generational growth rates significantly correlated with a reduced lifespan. Finally, we found that SIR2 expression levels correlated with lifespan and intergenerational growth. SIR2 expression was significantly reduced in large cells and increased in small wild type cells. A moderate increase in SIR2 expression correlated with reduced growth, decreased proliferation and increased lifespan in plate aging assays. We conclude that cellular growth rates and SIR2 expression levels may contribute to lifespan variation in individual cells.
Paper Feed and Writing Mechanisms

The majority of analog recorders utilize either strip charts or circular charts. The strip charts, supplied in rolls, have the great advantage that they can operate continuously for long periods without need of replacement. Circular charts, on the other hand, must be replaced periodically, and hence are used mostly for recording slowly changing variables, a single chart to last, perhaps, one day or one week (Figure 6-1).
THE BISPECTRAL PROBLEM: AN OVERVIEW

I describe the problem in its original form, talk about possible variants of it, describe some results, and then indicate the role of the bispectral problem as a discovery tool in unknown territory.
One-Way cryptography

In a forthcoming paper [2], we examine the security of the APCOProject 25 ("P25")[3] two-way digital voice radio system. P25 is a suite of digital protocols and standards designed for use in narrowband short-range (VHF and UHF) land-mobile wireless two-way communications systems. The system is used by law enforcement, national security, public safety, and other government users in the United States and several other countries. Because two-way radio traffic is easily intercepted, P25 includes a number of security features, including encryption of voice and data under a variety of cipher algorithms and keying schemes. It is regarded as being sufficiently secure to carry highly sensitive traffic, including confidential law enforcement criminal surveillance operations and to support classified national security investigations, and is extensively used for these purpose by the various U.S. federal agencies that conduct such activities.
Children Enrolled in Hospice Care Under Commercial Insurance: A Comparison of Different Age Groups.

Background:Although most children at end of life have commercial insurance, little is known about their demographic and clinical characteristics, what care they are receiving, and how much it costs...
Machine Learning in Crack Size Estimation of a Spur Gear Pair Using Simulated Vibration Data

Gears are the main components of power transmissions and are subjected to high cyclic load regime which can lead to premature fracture of the gear teeth. In order to prevent such events, research on gear condition monitoring and fault diagnostics techniques have received considerable attention. Machine learning (ML) applications have been widely combined with vibration measurement and analysis techniques for fault diagnostics in gearboxes and the majority of current techniques rely on experiments to generate training data. Despite the recognized advantages of using simulated data to train ML classifiers, this approach is still not a widespread practice. This paper proposes a simulation-driven ML framework to estimate the crack size in a gear tooth using simulated vibrations signals. Firstly, a 6-degrees-of-freedom model of a one-stage gearbox was developed to simulate the dynamic behavior of a cracked pinion. Secondly, a sample with 900 simulated vibration signals was generated considering 4 different crack sizes in the pinion tooth. Thirdly, the features of the vibration signals were extracted using 20 statistical indicators and, then, the extracted features were used to train and test 4 machine learning classifiers. Several performance evaluation metrics were computed, and the performance of the ML classifiers was compared and discussed. It was shown that the Decision Tree Classifier (DTC) performed best in the identification of small crack sizes regardless of the random selection of the training subsample.
Improved acute pain management in oncology patients using early scheduled contact with a pain coach.

293Background: Pain control is a challenging balance in the ambulatory oncology practice. Standard methods of pain reassessment resulted in poor pain control in the majority of patients given prescriptions for narcotics. We developed a proactive reassessment of pain using patient reported outcomes and a coach to assist in medication usage. The aim was to decrease the time to reassessment of pain to fewer than 5 days and achieve acceptable pain control in greater than 50% of patients receiving new narcotic prescriptions in an ambulatory oncology setting. Methods: Patients receiving a new narcotic prescription or a new dose were provided with a pain diary and an appointment with their pain coach at 48 hours. Using a standard pain scale 1-10, patients’ pain scores were recorded by the patient in their pain diary and communicated via nurse/patient phone contact at 48 hour intervals. Dosing intervention by the patient’s oncologist was made for unacceptable pain and reassessed at 48 hours. Uncontrolled pain at ...
Polyamines and potassium channels: A 25-year romance

Potassium channels that exhibit the property of inward rectification (Kir channels) are present in most cells. Cloning of the first Kir channel genes 25 years ago led to recognition that inward rectification is a consequence of voltage-dependent block by cytoplasmic polyamines, which are also ubiquitously present in animal cells. Upon cellular depolarization, these polycationic metabolites enter the Kir channel pore from the intracellular side, blocking the movement of K+ ions through the channel. As a consequence, high K+ conductance at rest can provide very stable negative resting potentials, but polyamine-mediated blockade at depolarized potentials ensures, for instance, the long plateau phase of the cardiac action potential, an essential feature for a stable cardiac rhythm. Despite much investigation of the polyamine block, where exactly polyamines get to within the Kir channel pore and how the steep voltage dependence arises remain unclear. This Minireview will summarize current understanding of the relevance and molecular mechanisms of polyamine block and offer some ideas to try to help resolve the fundamental issue of the voltage dependence of polyamine block.
Effects of Fall Fertilization on Freeze Resistance, Flowering, and Growth of ‘Hinodegiri’ Azalea

Abstract Five fertigation treatments were initiated August 1, 2002: 1) no additional fertilizer, 2) N at 75 mg·L−1 from August 1 to September 29, 3) N at 125 mg·L−1 from August 1 to September 29, 4) N at 75 mg·L−1 from August 1 to November 28, and 5) N at 125 mg·L−1 from August 1 to November 28. Freeze resistance of stems and leaves was analyzed monthly, November to February. Flower counts began prior to budbreak, and continued to flower expression. Fall fertigation increased azalea leaf and stem dry weights (DWs) compared to azaleas that received no additional fertigation after July 31. Fertigation N applied at 75 or 125 mg·L−1 from August 1 to November 28 did not increase leaf or stem DWs compared to plants fertigated at the same N rate from August 1 to September 29. High N treatments (N at 125 mg·L−1 from August 1 to September 29 or November 28) increased above ground DW, but reduced stem freeze resistance in November and March compared to plants that received N at 75 mg·L−1 from August 1 to September ...
The Design of Antifouling Surfaces: Background and Some Approaches

In this paper we will describe some approaches that are being investigated currently with a view to preventing biofouling problems. We will focus on methods to prevent or reduce microbial film formation in the marine environment. Because of space limitations, no attempt will be made to review the biomedical implant industry. Nevertheless, some of the ideas mentioned here are applicable to that environment.
Immune Mediated Diseases of the Cornea

The location and structural features of the cornea and adjacent conjunctiva creates a unique environment for immunologic reactions. Although the cornea is avascular, the peripheral cornea, or limbus, and the adjacent conjunctiva are rich in blood vessels, inflammatory cells, …
Spatial Dependency of Urban Sprawl and the Underlying Road Network Structure

AbstractThe spatial correlation between urban sprawl and the underlying road network has long been recognized in urban studies. Accessibility to road networks is often considered an approximation f...
Evolution of Morphological and Nanomechanical Properties of Bitumen Thin Films as a Result of Compositional Changes Due to Ultraviolet Radiation

This paper examines morphological and nanomechanical changes as compositional evolution occurs because of ultraviolet (UV) radiation in thin films of bituminous adhesives. Such an insight is important for developing strategies to enhance sustainable applications of such adhesives for coating and composite manufacturing. However, the shallow penetration depth of UV light in bitumen complicates efforts to isolate its effects. To address this question, this study examined the effects of UV exposure on spin-coated films of bitumen that are 600 nm thick. Bitumen thin films were UV-aged in an accelerated weathering machine and were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, UV–visible absorption spectroscopy, and nanoindentation. As UV radiation continued from 0 to 400 h, the hydrocarbon content of thin films gradually decreased, leaving behind sulfates and carbonyls and reducing bitumen solubility in org...
Volumetric Microsampling of Capillary Blood Spot vs Whole Blood Sampling for Therapeutic Drug Monitoring of Tacrolimus and Cyclosporin A: Accuracy and Patient Satisfaction.

BACKGROUND Immunosuppressant therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) usually requires outpatient travel to hospitals or phlebotomy sites for venous blood collection; however Mitra® Microsampling Device (MSD) sampling could allow self-collection and shipping of samples to a laboratory for analysis. This study examined the feasibility of using volumetric microsampling by MSD for TDM of tacrolimus (TaC) and cyclosporin A (CsA) in transplant patients, along with their feedback on the process. METHODS MSD was used to collect TaC and CsA from venous (VB) or capillary (CB) blood. The MSDs were rehydrated, extracted, and analyzed using on-line solid phase extraction coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (SPE-MS/MS). We report an abbreviated method validation of the MSD including: accuracy, precision, linearity, carry-over, and stability using residual venous whole blood (VB) samples. Subsequent clinical validation compared serially collected MSD + CB against VB (200 µL) from transplant patients. RESULTS Accuracy comparing VB vs. MSD+VB showed high clinical concordance (TaC = 89% and CsA = 98%). Inter- and intra-precision was ≤11.5 %CV for TaC and CsA. Samples were stable for up to 7 days at room temperature with an average difference of <10%. Clinical validation with MSD+CB correlated well with VB for CsA (slope = 0.95, r2 = 0.88, n = 47) and TaC (slope = 0.98, r2 = 0.82, n = 49). CB vs. VB gave concordance of 94% for CsA and 79% for TaC. A satisfaction survey showed 82% of patients preferred having the capillary collection option. CONCLUSION Transplant patients favored having the ability to collect capillary samples at home for TaC/CsA monitoring. Our results demonstrate good concordance between MSD+CB and VB for TaC and CsA TDM, but additional studies are warranted.