cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Computational and memory analysis of Tegra SoCs

Low-power, embedded, GPU System-on-Chip (SoC) devices provide outstanding computational performance, especially for compute-intensive tasks. While clusters of SoCs for High-Performance Embedded Computing (HPEC) are not new, the computational power of these supercomputers has long lacked the efficiency of their more traditional, High-Performance Computing (HPC) counterparts. With the advent of the Tegra K1 and X1, the efficiency debate is significantly more complex. These new devices can provide up to 500 GFLOPS of Float32 performance with a TDP of just 10 Watts. This paper investigates the current state of NVIDIA SoCs, comparing and contrasting their performance and power characteristics to high-end NVIDIA accelerators. In order to perform this analysis, we leverage two metrics, Computational Density (CD) and External Memory Bandwidth (EMB), to provide a first-order estimate and then normalize the results with Realizable Utilization (RU). RU is a measurement of device efficiency, comparing observed benchmarking results to the theoretical CD or EMB. From this analysis, we are able to uncover which computational kernels might show similar or improved performance on an HPEC cluster of NVIDIA Tegra SoCs. Based on our observations, an SoC cluster would be plausible for some power-constrained HPC applications. Furthermore, the observed performance improvement in Tegra devices suggests that a future GPU-SoC cluster could be an option for a wide range of applications.
Facile and robust triboelectric nanogenerators assembled using off-the-shelf materials

Abstract Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) are emerging as a new panacea for sustainable energy generation through the conversion of random mechanical motion into useful electrical energy. The present TENGs are fabricated via bottom-up approaches using novel nanomaterials (e.g., graphene and carbon nanotubes) and patterned polymers (e.g., polydimethylsiloxane or PDMS), which limit the deployment of TENGs at scales ranging from microelectronics to grid integration. Here we demonstrate a top-down approach for fabricating low-cost and ultra-simple TENGs (U-TENGs) using off-the-shelf materials for immediate proliferation into the present energy landscape. Specifically, U-TENGs constructed using indium-tin oxide (ITO) transparent conducting nanofilms on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyimide/Kapton adhesive tapes is demonstrated. U-TENGs are robust (>20,000 cycles) and inexpensive (~$0.06 cm −2 ) with −2 without the need for any nanopatterning, and operate over a wide range of temperatures up to 60 °C. Several practical applications of U-TENGs such as LED lighting, powering electronic calculator, textile integration, and passive vehicle/pedestrian monitoring are demonstrated.
Does irradiation enhance or inhibit strain bursts at the submicron scale

Abstract Irradiation-induced defects have been experimentally observed either to inhibit or promote strain bursts and lead to plastic flow localization. Through three dimensional discrete dislocation dynamics simulations, this work unravels the mystery of how and why irradiation-induced defects enhance or inhibit strain bursts in submicron BCC iron and FCC Cu single crystals. It is shown that smaller strain burst amplitudes in irradiated nano- and micro-pillars are obtained under stress control conditions. However, under strain control conditions, bursts are found not to be sensitive to irradiation, despite the arresting effect of radiation defects. This feature is a result of rapid stress relaxation truncating the strain burst, compared with the influence of irradiation-induced defects. In heavily irradiated materials, dislocation avalanches and strain bursts are shown to be promoted. The influence of dislocation-defect interaction mechanisms, cross slip, irradiation dose, as well as loading mode on strain bursts is systematically investigated, and the results compared with experimental observations.
Peremptory Challenges: Lessons from Hernandez v. Texas

INTRODUCTION What insights can a close study of Hernandez v. Texas contribute to current debates about the use of peremptory challenges to strike non-whites from venires? In light of the Supreme Court’s recent ruling in Thomas Miller-El v. Cockrell, 537 U.S. 322 (2003) and Hernandez v. New York, 111 S.Ct. 1859 (1991), analysis of the defense’s and prosecutor’s lines of reasoning in Hernandez v. Texas, as well as analysis of evolution in the Court’s understanding of the concept, “race,” preand post-Hernandez is warranted.
How we predicted the memristor

The memristor — a resistor with memory — was first postulated back in 1971, but it took nearly four decades before it was experimentally confirmed. Leon O. Chua explains how he developed a nonlinear circuit theory in which the memristor emerges naturally as the fourth basic circuit element.
THE USE OF RADIOISOTOPES IN ORTHOPAEDICS. II. APPLICATION OF RADIOACTIVE TRACER TECHNIQUES TO BONE.

The following physiological processes, most amenable to study by means of radioisotopes are discussed: the movement of elements and compounds including their uptake, turnover, exchange, and transfer; and the metabolic pathways and concentration of radioelements, their ionic groupings, and the compounds that may be labeled with radioelements. The methods discussed are autoradiography, radioassay, and external scanning or whole-body counting. Principles and techniques of autoradiography, and results obtained by its use on bone, are briefly recounted. The most striking finding after administration of bone- seeking radioisotopes is their deposition in new and incompletely mineralized osteons. The result is a spotty distribution of discrete foci of intense concentration; these are the areas designated as hot spots. About half of the deposited radiocalcium is diffusely distributed throughout the bone mineral where it produces a uniform darkening of the autoradiograms, at an intensity much lower than that in the hot spots. This diffuse component is responsible for long-term exchange, and remains buried in the mineral for long periods. The methods used for radioassay by counting methods depend on the element involved, the nature of the sample, and the degree of accuracy required. Varieties of counting vessels or holders for various material to be countedmore » are discussed from the viewpoint of the geometry of the system to be used and the self-absorption of the radioactivity by the sample. Characteristics of various counting devices are examined. Scanning of bone at the body surfaces requires emission of penetrating radiation. This may be brought about by three methods: employment of radioisotopes which themselves emit primary radiation; production of gamma radiation as a result of positron annihilation radiation; or bremsstrahlung, comparable to x rays, produced by the influence of BETA particles entering the electrical field around the nucleus of an atom. The most frequently used procedure for scanning over soft tissues is that of recording; radiation produced by positron annihilation. Methods for assay, and identification of low levels of radioactivity have been greatly- improved by, the use of largescale scintillation equipment, the chief advantages of a whole-body counter over equipment which measures localization being its greater sensitivity and accuracy. (BBB)« less
Role of the LFA-1 Molecule in B Cell Differentiation

The lymphocyte function-associated antigen-1 (LFA-1) was first identified as a T cell surface antigen, and antibodies to LFA-1 have been shown to inhibit responses of T cells to antigen and/or major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules (Springer 1982, Krensky 1983, Ware 1983, Collins 1984, Krensky 1984, Golde 1985, Naquet 1985). However, LFA-1 molecules are also present on the surface of B cells (Davignon 1981), and the possible functional role played by B cell LFA-1 has received little attention.
The Role of Guided Imagery in Educational Reform: The Integrative Learning System

This article reviews the Role of Guided Imagery as a part of the innovative Integrative Learning System which is based on a revolutionary Philosophy of Education and is causing outstanding success in learning results in schools, corporations and government agencies. It unveils several major paradigm shifts, including the shift from “manpower” to “manpower”.
United States: Gendered Institutions, Processes, and Outcomes

Dittmar argues that the exclusion of women at the nation’s founding and amid the creation of today’s constitutional system reinforced a long-established norm of male dominance in political leadership within American political institutions. The dominance of men and masculinity persists in U.S. politics today, most clearly in the underrepresentation of women at all levels of elected office. She reviews the history of women’s formal and informal eligibility for and acquisition of political offices, discussing both barriers to and strategies for increasing women’s political representation. Included among those strategies is making a strong case to aspirants, voters, and practitioners about the value of electing women. She concludes by revealing the ways in which women both disrupt and influence American political institutions, processes, and outcomes.
Platinum nanoparticle catalysis of methanol for thermoelectric power generation

Abstract Catalytic combustion of hydrocarbon and oxygenated fuels has the potential to provide an alternative power source for portable electronic devices. Our previous studies have demonstrated sustained catalytic combustion for a variety of fuels using multi-channel cordierite substrates. In particular, methanol-air mixtures catalyzed by platinum nanoparticles yielded room-temperature self-ignition and stable combustion. The present work explores a stacked-reactor design of a microcombustion-thermoelectric coupled device that marries thermal management strategies with catalytic combustion. Synthesized platinum nanoparticles ( d p ∼ 8 nm) were deposited on rectangular cordierite substrate cartridges with 800 μ m wide channels. A custom-designed copper-aluminum reactor was used to host the catalytic cartridges. A near-stoichiometric mixture of methanol-air at 8000 mL/min air flow rate produced 62 ° C temperature difference across thermoelectric generators. Material analysis demonstrated a non-uniform restructuring of catalyst material across the substrate. A parametric study of catalyst loading and air flow mapped the optimal operational range of the device. While a relatively low power output of 490 mW was measured, a theoretical power potential of 1400 mW was estimated. The results confirm the unique advantages of multi-channel catalytic cartridges and guide future developments in the application of nanocatalytic microcombustion for portable power sources.
Mississippi Delta Restoration and Protection: Shifting Baselines, Diminishing Resilience, and Growing Nonsustainability

Abstract The Mississippi delta is one of the largest and best studied of global deltas, and like all deltas. The Mississippi rebuilt the modern MRD (Mississippi River delta) across the continental shelf of the northern Gulf of Mexico over the past 7000 years during a period of relative sea-level stasis. Delta formation was enhanced by a hierarchical series of forcing functions acting over different spatial and temporal scales during a period of stable sea level, predictable inputs from its basin, and as an extremely open system with strong interactions among river, delta plain, and the coastal ocean. But within the last century, the MRD has—like many deltas worldwide—also been profoundly altered by humans with respect to hydrology, sediment supply, sea-level rise, and land use that directly affect sustainability as sea-level rise accelerates. Collectively, human actions have tilted the natural balance between land building and land loss in the MRD toward a physical collapse and conversion of over 25% of the deltaic wetland inventory to open water since the 1930s. The state of Louisiana is investing $50 billion in a 50-year coastal master plan (CMP) (revised at 5-year intervals) to reduce flood risk for developed areas and restore prioritized deltaic wetlands to a more self-sustaining and healthy condition. It is believed that both hard structures (levees, floodwalls) and wetlands sustained by “soft” projects (river diversions, marsh nourishment, barrier island maintenance) can work together to reduce risk of future hurricane damage to coastal cities, towns, and industry, while also protecting livelihoods and ways of life built around harvesting natural resources. But the pace of greenhouse gas emissions driving climate change, as well as the inevitable rise in out year energy costs, will make achieving CMP goals ever more challenging and expensive. Regardless of the project portfolios evaluated in the current CMP, the hydrodynamic and ecological modeling underpinning CMP projections indicates that fully implementing the plan will reduce future deltaic land-loss rates by less than 20%. Our analysis shows that the cost of delta restoration is quite sensitive to project type and sequencing. Investment is, for example, front loaded for river diversions and marsh creation but back loaded for most other project types. Repeated evacuations followed by more or less managed retreat will also continue to be necessary for much of the population even if the existing CMP is improved to increase supply of fine-grained sediments to the MRD. The CMP is ecological engineering on a grand scale, but to be successful it must operate in consonance with complex social processes. This will mean living in a much more open system, accepting natural and social limitations, and utilizing the resources of the river more fully.
Determination of the conductivity and thickness of conductive layers on conductive base materials

An eddy current technique for the simultaneous determination of the layer thickness and conductivity of a uniform conductive layer on a known conductive base material is presented. Layer thickness ...
Applying Faster R-CNN for Object Detection on Malaria Images

Deep learning based models have had great success in object detection, but the state of the art models have not yet been widely applied to biological image data. We apply for the first time an object detection model previously used on natural images to identify cells and recognize their stages in brightfield microscopy images of malaria-infected blood. Many micro-organisms like malaria parasites are still studied by expert manual inspection and hand counting. This type of object detection task is challenging due to factors like variations in cell shape, density, and color, and uncertainty of some cell classes. In addition, annotated data useful for training is scarce, and the class distribution is inherently highly imbalanced due to the dominance of uninfected red blood cells. We use Faster Region-based Convolutional Neural Network (Faster R-CNN), one of the top performing object detection models in recent years, pre-trained on ImageNet but fine tuned with our data, and compare it to a baseline, which is based on a traditional approach consisting of cell segmentation, extraction of several single-cell features, and classification using random forests. To conduct our initial study, we collect and label a dataset of 1300 fields of view consisting of around 100,000 individual cells. We demonstrate that Faster R-CNN outperforms our baseline and put the results in context of human performance.
A rigorous derivation of the Hamiltonian structure for the nonlinear Schrödinger equation

Abstract We consider the cubic nonlinear Schrodinger equation (NLS) in any spatial dimension, which is a well-known example of an infinite-dimensional Hamiltonian system. Inspired by the knowledge that the NLS is an effective equation for a system of interacting bosons as the particle number tends to infinity, we provide a derivation of the Hamiltonian structure, which is comprised of both a Hamiltonian functional and a weak symplectic structure, for the nonlinear Schrodinger equation from quantum many-body systems. Our geometric constructions are based on a quantized version of the Poisson structure introduced by Marsden, Morrison and Weinstein [24] for a system describing the evolution of finitely many indistinguishable classical particles.
Constitutive modeling of δ-phase zircaloy hydride based on strain rate dependent nanoindentation and nano-scale impact dataset

Abstract In this work, a constitutive model for zircaloy-4 embedded with δ-phase hydride rim/blister structures (δ-phase zircaloy hydride) is presented. Nanoindentation and nano-scale impact experiments were performed on the δ-hydride blisters as a function of temperature in order to obtain strain rate dependent location specific constitutive response. A power law viscoplastic constitutive model was chosen to represent the strain rate dependent behavior. The strength coefficient and the strain hardening exponent in the power law relation were found to decrease with increase in temperature indicating softening behavior at higher temperatures. The strain rate exponent remained constant with increase in temperature indicating that the rate dependent ductility does not change significantly at higher temperatures. A finite element method based model was created to analyze the failure behavior and the ductile to brittle transition in zircaloy hydride. The model predicted that fracture strength of δ-phase zircaloy hydride decreases linearly with increase in temperature.
Efficient Post-Quantum TLS Handshakes using Identity-Based Key Exchange from Lattices.

Identity-Based Encryption (IBE) is considered an alternative to traditional certificate-based public key cryptography to reduce communication overheads in wireless sensor networks. In this work, we build on the well-known lattice-based DLP-IBE scheme to construct an ID-based certificateless authenticated key exchange for post-quantum Transport Layer Security (TLS) handshakes. We also propose concrete parameters for the underlying lattice computations and provide detailed implementation results. Finally, we compare the combined computation and communication cost of our ID-based certificate-less handshake with the traditional certificate-based handshake, both using lattice-based algorithms at similar postquantum security levels, and show that our ID-based handshake is 3.7× more energy-efficient, thus highlighting the advantage of ID-based key exchange for post-quantum TLS.
Method of Validating the Importance of Aerodynamic (Drag) Parameters for Electric Racing Environments

In the 21st century, electric cars are forging ahead on the streets and taking over the place of combustion cars in the traffic. This process can be observed in the world of motorsports too. In the world of open wheelers, Formula E has begun in 2014, and from 2020 this will be an official FIA World Championship while in the world of tin-top racecars, Electric Touring Car Championship (ETCR) will start in 2020 too. One of the key differences between combustion and electric cars are the energy usage. In electric car racing, there is much less energy stored compared to the power demand for a given time, also batteries used nowadays heats up heavily, resulting in the fact that both the stored energy and the temperature of the batteries can be limiting factors on the car performance. Considering these facts, by switching to electric race cars, we need to revise the priorities between the components of performance. This way the effect and importance of drag need to be revised, as it can have more influence on race results than in case of internal combustion engine powered racing. In this paper, a validated simulation model is presented, and based on this model the importance of drag is investigated. According to simulations a very little (1–2%) change in the drag coefficient of the car results countable, because it can be mean 3–4 tenths in laptime, can still result many places on the grid, and can cause big differences during an overtaking maneuver.
Assessing the value of reviewing all fetal death records for birth defects surveillance, compared to only those with maternal anomaly codes.

Background The Arizona Birth Defects Monitoring Program (ABDMP) creates case-finding lists of potential birth defects. As part of this, ABDMP includes all fetal death records, in addition to records for mothers and infants with an associated birth defect code. This project aims to understand the value of including all fetal deaths in case-finding, and to assess the impact on the rate of birth defects if all fetal death cases are not reviewed. Methods We assessed 2016-2017 fetal death records based on case-finding source and ICD-10 CM codes. We categorized cases by whether they had a hospital discharge ICD-10 CM code indicating a maternal diagnosis for a fetal anomaly (i.e., "O35" code), and compared them to cases reported only by a stillbirth code, meaning that a baby was born deceased, with no reference to birth defects. Positive and negative predictive values were calculated (PPV, NPV, respectively). Results For 2016-2017, fetal deaths make up 6% (n = 89) of all confirmed birth defects (n = 1,416), and fetal deaths with no O35 code make up 4% (n = 54) of all confirmed birth defects cases in Arizona. Had cases without an O35 code not been included, 4% (n = 54) of confirmed birth defect cases in Arizona for 2016-2017 would have been missed. The PPV was 68.6%. Conclusion The work involved in reviewing the additional 1,000 records per year is warranted by the value noted. It is evident that by including all fetal deaths we capture a more accurate picture of the occurrence of birth defects in Arizona.
Comparison of Trauma Symptoms Among Nonpartner Sexual Violence Victims and Nonvictims in Urban Haiti’s Cité Soleil Neighborhood:

Women in resource-constrained, postdisaster, urban enclaves, such as Haiti’s Cite Soleil, are at risk for nonpartner sexual violence (NPSV) by multiple perpetrators, and subsequently, psychological...
Telemedicine Psychiatric Consultation on an Inpatient Obstetrical Labor and Delivery Unit.

BACKGROUND: Limited access to mental health resources has challenged clinicians in delivering early behavioral health interventions to perinatal populations. We describe telepsychiatry consultations to a rural hospital's labor and delivery unit. OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate how consultation-liaison services during peripartum hospitalization could meet this need. METHODS: One-year data from electronic medical records of women who were at risk of postpartum syndromes and offered a telepsychiatry consult was extracted and reviewed. RESULTS: A total of 85 consults were conducted via telepsychiatry primarily for depression, anxiety, and medication management. Bedside psychotherapeutic interventions and education were provided to 63 patients, medications were initiated for 32 patients, and outpatient referrals were made for 47 patients. CONCLUSIONS: Our results indicate that consultation-liaison telehealth can successfully engage at-risk mothers in psychiatric treatment. Given accelerated telemedicine efforts due to the COVID-19 pandemic, improving access to telepsychiatry for rural, peripartum populations is an important area of development.
A flexible univariate moving average time-series model for dispersed count data

Al-Osh and Alzaid (1988) consider a Poisson moving average (PMA) model to describe the relation among integer-valued time series data; this model, however, is constrained by the underlying equi-dispersion assumption for count data (i.e., that the variance and the mean equal). This work instead introduces a flexible integer-valued moving average model for count data that contain over- or under-dispersion via the Conway-Maxwell-Poisson (CMP) distribution and related distributions. This first-order sum-of-Conway-Maxwell-Poissons moving average (SCMPMA(1)) model offers a generalizable construct that includes the PMA (among others) as a special case. We highlight the SCMPMA model properties and illustrate its flexibility via simulated data examples.
The trans–cis isomerization of Ni(η2-TEMPO)2: Interconnections and conformational complexity

Abstract Previously, reactions of the “bow-tie” Ni( η 2 -TEMPO) 2 complex with an assortment of donor ligands have been characterized experimentally and computationally. The X-ray crystal structures afforded Ni( η 2 -TEMPO) 2 with trans -disposed TEMPO ligands, which was validated theoretically. Experimentally, proton transfer from the C–H bond of a variety of alkyne substrates (R) mostly produced cis -disposed ligands of the form Ni( η 2 -TEMPO)( κ 1 -TEMPOH)( κ 1 -R). While computations validated that the experimentally observed cis -disposed products were thermodynamically favored, in all cases, the proposed mechanisms of alkyne addition to cis -Ni( η 2 -TEMPO) 2 were kinetically disfavored. Therefore, a trans – cis isomerization must occur along the addition pathway. In order to better understand this phenomenon, an exhaustive theoretical conformational search of cis-/trans- Ni( η 2 -TEMPO) 2 and Ni( η 2 -TEMPO)( η 1 -TEMPO) structures has been performed. Our results show profound conformational and fluxional complexity for the trans – cis isomerization of the Ni( η 2 -TEMPO) 2 precursor. Surprisingly, the proposed mechanism for trans – cis isomerization indicates that conformational distortion of one of the TEMPO ligands of trans- Ni( η 2 -TEMPO) 2 before ring-opening provides a transition state free energy of activation stabilization of nearly 4.0 kcal mol −1 versus the most “straightforward” isomerization mechanism.
The Pill vs. the Sword: Additional Considerations; Comment on “The Pill Is Mightier Than the Sword”

In this paper, I present additional information for policy-makers and researchers to consider in response to the view proposed by Potts et al that "the pill is mightier than the sword." I identify states with both high rates of terrorism and a youth bulge and discuss correlates of both these societal characteristics. The research examined supports the view that factors other than access to family planning are more important in facilitating terrorism.
The Lost Years: A Problem in the Computation and Distribution of Damges

S IGNIFICANT and continuing advances by contemporary medicine in diagnostic and clinical skills have made it increasingly more possible and common to venture a prognosis of diminished life expectancy for victims of disease and accident, sufficiently reliable to meet the conventional legal standard of proof on a balance of probabilities. This development raises to prominence important questions relating to the assessment of damages in personal injury actions and the distribution of compensation among the various interests, including those of dependants, who are liable to suffer prejudice presently and in the future as a result of an accident and may, therefore, legitimately voice their concern in the disposition of any claim against the tortfeasor. Diminution of life expectancy has a harmful impact not only on the person thus disabled, both in respect of his interests of personality (anguish at the prospect of hastened death) and substance (deprivation of earning capacity during the lost years), but no less upon the expectancy of his survivors which is today protected to some extent in all of our jurisdictions either by survival or wrongful death statutes or both.' Neither courts nor legislatures have remained strangers to some of the problems of adjusting these varying and often conflicting interests, particularly as between the estate and surviving dependants of the decedent. But in the past, rather less consideration than it deserves has been given to the proper relation between claims by the injured person in his own lifetime and those of his dependants after death. With few exceptions, of which California is a notable example,2 this conflict has generally3 been resolved by subjecting the interests of the latter to the risk of extinction by a prior recovery of the deceased, in the assumed belief that any other solution would expose the tortfeasor to the dreaded prospect of double liability. This fear would be warranted, however, only if the award to the decedent included compensation for his loss of earnings during the period by which his life has been curtailed, for this segment alone corresponds with the expectancy of support to which his dependants
Multilevel expansion-based VLSI placement with blockages

The rapid growth of system-on-chip designs makes it a necessity for physical design tools to efficiently handle the coexistence of large intellectual property (IP) blocks and small standard cells in a single design. In this work, we present an efficient expansion-based placer to address standard-cell placement problem in the presence of blockages induced by pre-placed IP blocks. Expansion refers to the process during which cells are gradually distributed over a specified region. We implement expansion in a new placer by enhancing a quadratic placement technique based on fixed-point addition originally presented by B. Hu and M. Marek-Sadowska (2003), where fixed points were defined as dimensionless pseudo cells, and were deliberately introduced into the circuit to pull cells from one location to another. The new placer not only produces very competitive placement results over multiple sets of public-domain benchmarks with conventional rectangle-like chip boundary, but also efficiently handles the existence of blockages. Especially, we develop three expansion strategies and use them under different blockage settings.
Salmonella typhi facial infection: Report of case

The following case report describes the evaluation, assessment, and treatment of a facial infection due to Salmonella typhi, caused by bites from the family's pet dog. The causative agent and the mode of transmission are unique in that there are no reported cases of this nature in the literature at this time.
A functional anatomical analysis of central pathways subserving the effects of interleukin-1 on stress-related neuroendocrine neurons.

Systemic administration of the cytokine interleukin-1 (IL-1) results in increased secretion of ACTH and corticosterone in rats. The available evidence suggests that the acute effects of IL-1 are exerted ultimately at the level of the hypothalamus to increase corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) secretion into the hypophyseal portal circulation, and hence the central drive on the pituitary-adrenal system. However, the route(s) and mechanism(s) by which circulating IL-1 gains access to central mechanisms governing pituitary-adrenal output remain poorly understood. In this study, we show that intravenous injection of IL-1 beta provokes time- and dose-dependent increases in the expression of the immediate-early gene c-fos, in identified CRF and oxytocin- producing cells of the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVH). Several cell groups known to be involved in central visceromotor regulation also displayed comparable time- and dose-related activation to systemic IL-1, including the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, the central nucleus of the amygdala, the lateral parabrachial nucleus, and cell groups of the dorsomedial and ventrolateral medulla. Activation of circumventricular organs, which have been hypothesized to serve as central monitors of circulating IL-1, required doses roughly an order of magnitude above those required to activate CRF neurons in the PVH. Combined immunohistochemical and retrograde tracing experiments revealed many IL-1-responsive cells in the nucleus of the solitary tract and the ventrolateral medulla to be catecholaminergic and to project to the region of the PVH. Discrete and unilateral interruption of ascending catecholaminergic projections from the medulla attenuated IL-1-stimulated increases in Fos immunoreactivity and CRF mRNA in the PVH on the ipsilateral side. Disruption of descending projections from circumventricular structures associated with the lamina terminalis did not affect IL-1-mediated Fos induction in the PVH. We conclude that medullary catecholaminergic projections to the PVH play either a mediating or a permissive role in the IL-1- induced activation of the central limb of the hypothalamo-pituitary- adrenal axis.
Role of adrenergic receptors in the reflex diuresis in rabbits during pulmonary lymphatic obstruction

The role of adrenergic receptors in the reflex diuresis in response to pulmonary lymphatic drainage was examined in anaesthetized, artificially ventilated New Zealand White rabbits. Pulmonary lymphatic drainage was obstructed by raising the pressure in a pouch created from the right external jugular vein. This pulmonary lymphatic obstruction results in a reflex increase in urine flow and sodium excretion. This reflex is abolished by renal denervation and by administration of l-NAME, a non-selective inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase. Also, infusion of the relatively selective neuronal nitric oxide synthase blocker, 7-nitroindazole sodium salt, into the renal medulla abolished the reflex diuresis. In this study the effects of adrenergic receptor antagonists on the reflex increase in urine were observed. Both ureters were cannulated in order to determine urine flow from both kidneys separately. Prazosin, an α1 adrenergic receptor antagonist, was infused into the renal medulla of the right kidney, while the left kidney acted as control. Administration of prazosin in this manner did not block the reflex diuresis in response to pulmonary lymphatic obstruction in either kidney. However, rauwolscine, an α2 adrenergic receptor antagonist, abolished the reflex increase in urine and sodium excretion in the ipsilateral kidney while preserving it in the contralateral kidney. These findings suggest that the increase in urine flow in rabbits caused by pulmonary lymphatic obstruction is dependent upon activation of α2 adrenergic receptors within the renal medulla.
Mannich Bases Derived from 3-Pipecoline, 4-Pipecoline and 2, 6-Dimethylmorpholine

3-Methylpiperidine, 4-methylpiperidine, and 2, 6-dimethylmorpholine were used to condense separately with sixteen different ketones and paraformaldehyde to yield various Mannich bases. All the hydrochlorides of Mannich bases prepared in this work were tested for their solubilities in water, in 0.1N hydrochloric acid and in 0.1N sodium hydroxide.
Allelic Polymorphism Synergizes with Variable Gene Content to Individualize Human KIR Genotype

Killer Ig-like receptor (KIR) genes are a multigene family on human chromosome 19. KIR genes occur in various combinations on different haplotypes. Additionally, KIR genes are polymorphic. To examine how allelic polymorphism diversifies KIR haplotypes with similar or identical combinations of KIR genes, we devised methods for discriminating alleles of KIR2DL1, -2DL3, -3DL1, and -3DL2. These methods were applied to 143 individuals from 34 families to define 98 independent KIR haplotypes at the allele level. Three novel 3DL2 alleles and a chimeric 3DL1/3DL2 sequence were also identified. Among the A group haplotypes were 22 different combinations of 2DL1, 2DL3, 3DL1, and 3DL2 alleles. Among the B group haplotypes that were unambiguously determined were 15 distinct haplotypes involving 9 different combinations of KIR genes. A and B haplotypes both exhibit strong linkage disequilibrium (LD) between 2DL1 and 2DL3 alleles, and between 3DL1 and 3DL2 alleles. In contrast, there was little LD between the 2DL1/2DL3 and 3DL1/3DL2 pairs that define the two halves of the KIR gene complex. The synergistic combination of allelic polymorphism and variable gene content individualize KIR genotype to an extent where unrelated individuals almost always have different KIR types. This level of diversity likely reflects strong pressure from pathogens on the human NK cell response.
Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) Spectroscopy

Electron-Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) spectroscopy, also know as Electron-Spin Resonance (ESR) spectroscopy, monitors the energy levels of paramagnetic molecules. The major energy interaction (Zeeman Interaction) is between the magnetic moment of the electron and the field of a large uniform magnet. This interaction splits the normally degenerate spin levels of the electron and the electron-paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectrometer measures the energy of this interaction. The EPR spectrometer is described along with a discussion of spectral optimization techniques. Additionally, energy interaction terms are described and include hyperfine coupling (the interaction of the magnetic moments of the unpaired electron and magnetic nuclei) and spin-orbit coupling, which influences the magnitude of the spectroscopic g-factor and the energy levels of S > 1/2 systems. The general features of half-integer and integer high-spin systems are further described, including examples. Keywords: bioorganometallic chemistry; electron paramagnetic-resonance spectroscopy (EPR); electron-spin resonance spectroscopy (ESR); hyperfine interaction; Zeeman interaction
Impact of co‐culture on pancreatic differentiation of embryonic stem cells

Promise of cellular therapy for type 1 diabetes has inspired the search for transplantable cell sources, and embryonic stem cells (ESCs) have emerged as strong candidates. We have developed a directed differentiation protocol to obtain insulin-producing cells from ESCs. The ESCs are first induced towards a homogeneous monolayer of definitive endoderm-like cells by co-culture with primary hepatocytes. Pancreatic commitment is induced by plating the ESC-derived endoderms on Matrigel, along with Sonic hedgehog inhibition and retinoid induction. More than 70% of differentiated cells positively upregulated Pdx-1, along with pro-endocrine transcription factors Ngn3, β2/neroD1, Nkx2.2 and Nkx6.1. Final maturation to islet-specific cells is achieved by co-culturing the ESC-derived pancreatic endocrine cells with endothelial cells, which resulted in Insulin 1 upregulation in 60% of the cell population, along with high levels of IAPP and Glut2. The differentiated cell population also secreted high levels of insulin. Our findings illustrate the significant effect of co-culture in different stages of differentiation and maturation of ESCs in vitro. Such a high yield of pancreatic islet cells has not yet been reported. Our findings establish a robust protocol for islet differentiation.
QUARKS AND THE SATURATION PROPERTIES OF NUCLEAR MATTER

A two-region model of the nuclear force is developed by using quark degrees of freedom at short ranges and nucleons elsewhere. In the quark sector, the soliton bag model and generator coordinates are used so that the quark fields undergo a continuous deformation as the two nucleons overlap. This model describes the spin singlet nucleon-nucleon scattering data very well. The density and binding energy of nuclear matter are also computed in lowest-order Brueckner theory. Quark effects are found to decrease both the saturation density and binding energy.
A physician's guide to transfusion in autoimmune haemolytic anaemia

Patients with autoimmune haemolytic anaemia (AIHA) frequently have anaemia of sufficient severity as to require a blood transfusion. However, it is impossible to find compatible blood when, as is frequently the case, the autoantibody in the patient's serum reacts with all normal red blood cells. Further, the autoantibody may mask the presence of a red cell alloantibody capable of causing a haemolytic transfusion reaction. Optimal patient management in this clinical setting requires special compatibility test procedures in the transfusion service laboratory. Equally important is that clinicians must understand the principles of the compatibility tests performed. Provided appropriate compatibility tests are performed, the indications for transfusion in patients with AIHA are not significantly different than for similarly anaemic patients without AIHA. Communication between clinicians and laboratory personnel are important to review the urgency of transfusion and the compatibility test methods used to select the optimal unit of red blood cells for transfusion.
Mount Holyoke College ART Collection

Mount Holyoke's 125th Anniversary celebration includes an exhibition of selected objects from the permanent collection in Dwight Art Memorial from November through January.
Multi-level reliability simulation for IC design

CMOS IC design is challenged by the ever-increasing reliability issues, demanding highly accurate and efficient reliability simulation methodology. This paper presents multi-level solutions for reliability prediction in digital and analog design, including (1) device-level long-term aging models that capture unique operation patterns in digital and analog design, (2) circuit-level simulation method for analog reliability analysis, and (3) gate-level reliability simulation for large-scale digital designs. These solutions are integrated into IC design tools, helping diagnose critical conditions for circuit failure and enable adaptive design for resilience.
Performance of a human inhalation challenge exposure system. I. Gases

The purpose of this study was to characterize and evaluate the performance of a whole-body human exposure chamber for controlled test atmospheres of gases and particulates. This article is a report on the performance of the system with gas phase agents. Results of the performance of the system with particulate phase agents will be presented in a separate report. The chamber was constructed from Plexiglas with a volume of 2.13 m(3) (75 ft(3)) and operating at a flow rate about 1.0 m(3)/min (34 cfm). Both the makeup and exhaust air were HEPA-filtered. CO(2) was used as a tracer gas and its concentration was measured using Metrosonics aq-5000 instruments. The CO(2) concentrations used in this study ranged from about 5000 to 12,000 ppm. Observed and predicted concentrations at equilibrium of test material were in agreement within 1.7%. Concentration of CO(2) was found to be even horizontally throughout the chamber, with a small initial lag of about 30 sec between the maximum concentration at the top and the bottom of the chamber. The system can thus be reliably used for inhalation challenge procedures for gases.
Pressure-density-temperature relations of freezing liquid parahydrogen to 350 atmospheres

Three new melting pressures for parahydrogen are utilized in an empirical, melting-line representation to obtain a provisional set of densities for liquid parahydrogen in equilibrium with solid parahydrogen. (C.E.S.)
Self-report was a viable method for obtaining health care utilization data in community-dwelling seniors

Abstract Objective Patient self-report and audits of medical records are the most common approaches for obtaining information on utilization of medical services. Because of the time and cost savings associated with self-report, it is important to demonstrate the reliability of this approach, particularly in older persons who use more medical resources but may have poorer recall. Study design and setting We contacted the medical providers of a random sample of seniors ( n =150) who participated in an ongoing study of health care use. Providers' reports on the participant's medical utilization in the prior year were compared with patients' self-report over the same time period using weighted kappa statistics. Results Perfect or almost perfect agreement (weighted kappa=0.80–1.00) was obtained for physician, hospital, and emergency department visits and high-cost therapies (chemotherapy, radiation therapy). Agreement was substantial (weighted kappa=0.60–0.80) for x-ray procedures and prescription medications and moderate (weighted kappa=0.40–0.60) for outpatient procedures and diagnostic tests. Conclusion Participant self-report is a viable, reasonably accurate method to obtain information on most types of medical utilization in an older study cohort.
Development of a bio‐based composite material from soybean oil and keratin fibers

A novel bio-based composite material, suitable for electronic as well as automotive and aeronautical applications, was developed from soybean oils and keratin feather fibers (KF). This environmentally friendly, low-cost composite can be a substitute for petroleum-based composite materials. Keratin fibers are a hollow, light, and tough material and are compatible with several soybean (S) resins, such as acrylated epoxidized soybean oil (AESO). The new KFS lightweight composites have a density ρ 1 g/cm 3 , when the KF volume fraction is 30%. The hollow keratin fibers were not filled by resin infusion and the composite retained a significant volume of air in the hollow structure of the fibers. Due to the retained air, the dielectric constant, k, of the composite material was in the range of 1.7-2.7, depending on the fiber volume fraction, and these values are significantly lower than the conventional silicon dioxide or epoxy, or polymer dielectric insulators. The coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of the 30 wt % composite was 67.4 ppm/°C; this value is low enough for electronic application and similar to the value of silicon materials or polyimides used in printed circuit boards. The water absorption of the AESO polymer was 0.5 wt % at equilibrium and the diffusion coefficient in the KFS composites was dependent on the keratin fiber content. The incorporation of keratin fibers in the soy oil polymer enhanced the mechanical properties such as storage modulus, fracture toughness, and flexural properties, ca. 100% increase at 30 vol %. The fracture energy of a single keratin fiber in the composite was determined to be about 3 kJ/m 2 with a fracture stress of about 100-200 MPa. Considerable improvements in the KFS composite properties should be possible by optimization of the resin structure and fiber selection.
A Cost Decision Model for Choosing JIT Purchasing or EOQ Purchasing

Whether to use JIT or EOQ purchasing for a manufacturer is affected by many factors. The total purchasing cost and their cost item is detailed respectively and a difference cost function presented between the EOQ and JIT purchasing. Then the solution and its numerical description are proposed.
Influence of Bioaerosol Source Location and Ceiling Fan Direction on Eggcrate Upper-room Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation

Eggcrate upper-room ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI), an engineering control method for reducing the airborne transmission of infectious diseases, was recently developed as an alternative to conventional upper-room UVGI using conventional louvered fixtures. A UV screen, which is composed of open-cell eggcrate panels supported in a frame designed for a conventional suspended ceiling, was used to minimize UV radiation in the lower room. A ceiling fan, which was blowing upward directly above the microbiological source, provided vertical air exchange between the upper and lower room. This system has been shown to be significantly more effective than conventional upper-room UVGI.In the present study, the microbiological source location and the airflow direction due to the ceiling fan were varied in order to evaluate their impact on germicidal efficacy.The test results clearly showed that placing an aerosol source directly underneath an upward blowing ceiling fan produces the maximum efficacy.The likely explanation for this outcome is that the fan sucks the microorganisms emitted by the source into the UV beam before being mixed with the air in the room. This is somewhat analogous to local exhaust ventilation in which the contaminant is removed prior to being mixed with the air in the room. Thus, when possible, the ceiling fan should be blowing upward and directly above the source. However, for experimental testing, the source location should be varied in order to access the range of germicidal efficacies that can be expected.