cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
72 GHz millimeter wave indoor measurements for wireless and backhaul communications

As the mobile cellular carriers are currently facing a spectrum crunch, researchers are concentrating on higher carrier frequency bands, such as E-band (71-76 GHz and 81-86 GHz) for the next generation wireless communication systems. The E-band is promising due to its large available, continuous bandwidth and robust weather resilience. In this paper, we demonstrate a spread spectrum sliding correlator channel sounder operating at a center frequency of 73.5 GHz with an 800 MHz null-to-null bandwidth. The channel sounder provides a multipath time resolution of 2.33 ns. 72 GHz millimeter wave propagation and penetration characteristics in an indoor office environment are investigated using the sliding correlator channel sounding system. Data collected and processed from the measurements shows that strong received power can be achieved from the multipath-rich indoor environment, in the presence of multiple obstructions. The data obtained from this measurement campaign may be utilized for the design of future fifth generation millimeter wave indoor cellular systems.
Parameters for a Roll On-Roll Off Marine Intermodal Service on Lake Superior

The feasibility of reestablishing roll on-roll off (RO-RO) service linking Thunder Bay, Ontario, and the Twin Ports of Duluth, Minnesota, and Superior, Wisconsin, was examined. An analysis of similar services both on the Great Lakes and overseas was undertaken. Previous operations on the same route on Lake Superior and short sea service in the Baltic region were analyzed, and the attributes of an appropriate vessel type, such as ice strengthened scantlings and adequate speeds, were determined. A route schedule for a typical vessel was developed. A profile of a suitable vessel was prepared, and the market availability of the vessels was assessed. Issues in terminal design and operation were applied to potential docks in the ports of call to determine the adequacy of shoreside facilities. Cost factors for vessel operations and terminal operations were determined, and a spreadsheet model was developed for future application. Potential revenue streams from vessel and terminal operations were also explored. Re...
Dual Role for the Glutamine Phosphoribosylpyrophosphate Amidotransferase Ammonia Channel INTERDOMAIN SIGNALING AND INTERMEDIATE CHANNELING

Abstract Glutamine phosphoribosylpyrophosphate (PRPP) amidotransferase catalyzes the first reaction of de novopurine nucleotide synthesis in two steps at two sites. Glutamine is hydrolyzed to glutamate plus NH3 at an N-terminal glutaminase site, and NH3 is transferred through a 20-A hydrophobic channel to a distal PRPP site for synthesis of phosphoribosylamine. Binding of PRPP is required to activate the glutaminase site (termed interdomain signaling) to prevent the wasteful hydrolysis of glutamine in the absence of phosphoribosylamine synthesis. Mutations were constructed to analyze the function of the NH3 channel. In the wild type enzyme, NH3derived from glutamine hydrolysis was transferred to the PRPP site, and little or none was released. Replacement of Leu-415 at the PRPP end of the channel with an alanine resulted in a leaky channel and release of NH3 to the solvent. Mutations in five amino acids that line the channel and two other residues required for the reorganization of phosphoribosyltransferase domain “flexible loop” that leads to formation of the channel perturbed channel function as well as interdomain signaling. The data emphasize the role of the NH3 channel in coupling interdomain signaling and NH3 transfer.
A common mitochondrial haplogroup is associated with elevated total serum IgE levels

Background Maternal history of asthma or atopy is among the most consistently reported risk factors for asthma and atopy in children, yet the molecular basis for this observation remains unclear. Mitochondria are inherited exclusively through the maternal line, raising the possibility that sequence variation in the mitochondrial genome contributes to the pathogenesis of asthma and atopy. Objective We set out to determine whether common European mitochondrial haplogroups are associated with asthma-related atopic phenotypes. Methods We studied 654 self-reported white children age 5 to 12 years with mild to moderate asthma participating in the Childhood Asthma Management Program. Eight haplogroup-tagging polymorphisms were genotyped with TaqMan probe hybridization assays, and mitochondrial haplogroup tests of association with asthma-related and atopy-related phenotypes were performed with haplo.stats. Results We found significant evidence of mitochondrial haplogroup association with total serum IgE levels (global significance, P = .04), with carriers of European haplogroup U (frequency 11%) having higher total serum IgE levels (median level, 684 IU/L) compared with noncarriers (389 IU/L; P = .001). Haplogroup U carriers also had trends of greater skin prick test reactivity ( P = .03) and higher frequency of atopic dermatitis ( P = .07), although global haplogroup tests for these later 2 phenotypes were not significant at an α level of 0.05. Conclusion These data are the first to suggest that common mitochondrial haplogroups influence the atopic diathesis. Clinical implications These findings may provide a molecular explanation for the prominent influence of maternal history of atopy on the development of atopy in offspring.
Non-intrusive electric power sensors for smart grid

An electric power sensor that measures near-field voltage and current waveforms through the insulation layer on a power cord is presented. To measure the line current, we examined Hall, giant magneto-resistive (GMR) and inductive sensors and found that for sensing 60 Hz current through its magnetic field, the inductive probe resulted in the best performance. To measure the voltage waveform, we developed a near-field electric dipole antenna that consisted of two strips of copper approximately 3 mm long. The voltage and current sensors were then calibrated and uncertainties due to the placement of the sensors over power cords were determined. A method was developed to enable the power sensor to perform auto calibration to estimate miss-alignments between the sensors and the wires in the cord. Power measurement accuracy of better than 5% was achieved.
Early Childhood Education Reinvention and Education Policy: Addressing Linguistic and Cultural Diversity

“Americanization” has been a goal of many programs for culturally and linguistically diverse students in America. This approach has not been successful. In its place is a need for forms of education that are directly relevant to the needs of culturally diverse children. While multicultural education is a necessary part of the early childhood curriculum, there is a need to go beyond muticultaralism, developing forms of education that allow all children to participate in “meaning making”.
Measurement equivalence and latent mean differences of personality scores across different media and proctoring administration conditions

We examine measurement equivalence of the Big Five across three conditions.We examine latent and observed mean differences of the Big Five across conditions.Measurement equivalence was found for personality scales across all conditions.Significant latent and observed mean differences were found for only one scale. Despite substantial interest and research in measuring personality, little is known about the measurement equivalence and mean differences in scores on personality measures across different administration conditions. The aim of the present study was to assess measurement equivalence and latent and observed mean differences of scores on the Big Five factor markers from the International Personality Item Pool across three conditions: paper-and-pencil proctored, computer-based proctored, and computer-based non-proctored. Undergraduate students (N=401) from a Midwestern university responded to the personality questionnaire in one of the three conditions. Results indicated configural, metric, scalar, and invariant uniqueness equivalence for four of the five scales across the three conditions; Conscientiousness scores showed partial metric equivalence across computer-based proctored and computer-based non-proctored conditions. Apart from latent and observed mean differences for Emotional Stability scores in paper-and-pencil proctored vs. computer-based non-proctored conditions, no significant differences were found for the other four personality scales. These findings justify both collection and comparison of personality data using the Big Five factor markers and similar personality assessments across the three conditions. Future research should attempt to replicate the findings of the current study in high-stakes environments.
Hepatic DNA repair synthesis in rats fed 3'-methyl-4-dimethylaminoazobenzene.

Summary Rats, whose liver DNA was prelabeled with BdUrd-14C, were placed on a diet containing 0.05% of the hepatic carcinogen 3′-methyl-4-dimethylaminoazobenzene. At various times during the second day on the carcinogenic diet animals received an injection of dThd-3H and were sacrificed 1 hr later, hepatic DNA was extracted and analyzed by density equilibrium centrifugation in alkaline CsCl gradients. The results of these studies indicate that non-semiconservative DNA synthesis (DNA repair synthesis is an early consequence of carcinogen exposure and that the amount of DNA repair synthesis occurring at a given time depends, in part, on the animals feeding schedule.
Non-Pauli Transitions from Spacetime Noncommutativity

The consideration of noncommutative spacetimes in quantum theory can be plausibly advocated from physics at the Planck scale. Typically, this noncommutativity is controlled by fixed ``vectors'' or ``tensors'' with numerical entries like ${\ensuremath{\theta}}_{\ensuremath{\mu}\ensuremath{\nu}}$ for the Moyal spacetime. In approaches enforcing Poincar\'e invariance, these deform or twist the method of (anti)symmetrization of identical particle state vectors. We argue that the Earth's rotation and movements in the cosmos are ``sudden'' events to Pauli-forbidden processes. This induces (twisted) bosonic components in state vectors of identical spinorial particles. These components induce non-Pauli transitions. From known limits on such transitions, we infer that the energy scale for noncommutativity is $\ensuremath{\gtrsim}{10}^{24}\text{ }\text{ }\mathrm{TeV}$. This suggests a new energy scale beyond the Planck scale.
Assembly of thick filaments and myofibrils occurs in the absence of the myosin head

We investigated the importance of the myosin head in thick filament formation and myofibrillogenesis by generating transgenic Drosophila lines expressing either an embryonic or an adult isoform of the myosin rod in their indirect flight muscles. The headless myosin molecules retain the regulatory light-chain binding site, the alpha-helical rod and the C-terminal tailpiece. Both isoforms of headless myosin co-assemble with endogenous full-length myosin in wild-type muscle cells. However, rod polypeptides interfere with muscle function and cause a flightless phenotype. Electron microscopy demonstrates that this results from an antimorphic effect upon myofibril assembly. Thick filaments assemble when the myosin rod is expressed in mutant indirect flight muscles where no full-length myosin heavy chain is produced. These filaments show the characteristic hollow cross-section observed in wild type. The headless thick filaments can assemble with thin filaments into hexagonally packed arrays resembling normal myofibrils. However, thick filament length as well as sarcomere length and myofibril shape are abnormal. Therefore, thick filament assembly and many aspects of myofibrillogenesis are independent of the myosin head and these processes are regulated by the myosin rod and tailpiece. However, interaction of the myosin head with other myofibrillar components is necessary for defining filament length and myofibril dimensions.
Channel Dynamics Under Price and Service Competition

This paper studies a distribution system in which a manufacturer supplies a common product to two independent retailers, who in turn use service as well as retail price to directly compete for end customers. We examine the drivers of each firm's strategy, and the consequences for total sales, market share, and profitability. We show that the relative intensity of competition with respect to each competitive dimension plays a key role, as does the degree of cooperation between the retailers. We discover a number of insights concerning the preferences of each party regarding competition. For instance, there will be circumstances under which both retailers would prefer an increase in competitive intensity. Our analysis generalizes existing knowledge about manufacturer wholesale pricing strategies, and rationalizes behaviors that would not be evident without both price and service competition. Finally, we characterize the structure of wholesale pricing mechanisms that can coordinate the system, and show that the most commonly used formats (those that are linear in the order quantity) can achieve coordination only under very limiting conditions.
Determinants of change in cognitive therapy for depression.

We explored the processes of change in cognitive therapy of depression in a sample of 25 adult outpatients. Raters blind to treatment outcome listened to audiotapes of sessions and rated items that pertained to (a) the therapist-offered facilitative conditions (warmth, empathy, etc.); (b) the patient—therapist relationship (the helping alliance); and (c) the therapist's adherence to the methods of cognitive therapy. Adherence separated into two factors in a factor analysis. One factor, representing “concrete,” symptom-focused methods of cognitive therapy, predicted subsequent symptom reduction when assessed early in treatment, but not later. The other factor, representing less focused, more “abstract” discussions, did not predict improvement. Neither did facilitative conditions nor the helping alliance predict change that occurred after the rated session. However, later in treatment, the helping alliance was predicted by prior symptom reduction. Methods used to discern the temporal relations of in-session behavior to outcome are highlighted.
The American "not-so-socialist" league in the postwar era - the limitations of gate sharing in reducing revenue disparity in baseball.

A suggested remedy for competitive imbalance in professional sports leagues is for home teams to share gate and broadcasting revenues. In some models, researchers assume that as a team becomes stronger, its ability to draw on the road falls (because the rival team is, ceteris paribus, weaker). The experience in the American League during the 1950s demonstrates that this assumption does not hold at all times for all leagues. In cases where stronger teams also draw well on the road, gate sharing may shift revenue from weaker teams to stronger teams.
STRENGTHS OF CHARACTER AND WELL-BEING

Abstract We investigated the relationship between various character strengths and life satisfaction among 5,299 adults from three Internet samples using the Values in Action Inventory of Strengths. Consistently and robustly associated with life satisfaction were hope, zest, gratitude, love, and curiosity. Only weakly associated with life satisfaction, in contrast, were modesty and the intellectual strengths of appreciation of beauty, creativity, judgment, and love of learning. In general, the relationship between character strengths and life satisfaction was monotonic, indicating that excess on any one character strength does not diminish life satisfaction.
Open Problems in Algebraic Statistics

Algebraic statistics is concerned with the study of probabilistic models and techniques for statistical inference using methods from algebra and geometry. This article presents a list of open mathematical problems in this emerging field, with main emphasis on graphical models with hidden variables, maximum likelihood estimation, and multivariate Gaussian distributions. These are notes from a lecture presented at the IMA in Minneapolis during the 2006/07 program on Applications of Algebraic Geometry.
Radial diffusion of low-energy ions in Saturn's radiation belts: A Combined analysis of phase space density and satellite microsignature data

Phase space densities for low-energy (80 MeV/G) ions in Saturn's inner magnetosphere are analyzed using solutions of the time-averaged radial diffusion equation for charged particle transport in a dipolar magnetic field. A series of distributed loss models ranging from satellite absorption only to satellite and maximum estimated Ring E absorption losses plus pitch angle scattering losses occurring at the strong diffusion limit in the inner magnetosphere are assumed. In each case the corresponding form of the magnetospheric radial diffusion coefficient (assumed to be expressible as D(L) = DoLn, where Do is a constant and n is an integer) which yields a minimum rms residual between model and data is determined. Independent constraints on the diffusion rate at specific L values derivable from satellite microsignatures in low-energy ions and electrons are then considered. Estimates previously derived from the Dione microsignature in Voyager 1 low-energy electrons are supplemented by additional analyses of the Tethys microsignature in Voyager 2 low-energy ions and the Rhea microsignature in Voyager 1 low-energy electrons. The resulting diffusion rate estimates of D(4.9) ∼4 ± 2×10−8 Rs² s−1 and D(8.7) > 6 ± 5×10−8 Rs² s−1 are consistent with those derived from the Dione microsignature if D(L) increases outward. A comparison with the phase space density modeling results shows that satellite and maximum Ring E absorption losses alone are insufficient to yield diffusion rates at Tethys and Dione that are in agreement with the microsignature estimates. Models containing weak pitch angle scattering losses of low-energy ions in the inner magnetosphere occurring at a rate less than one-tenth that of the strong diffusion limit produce diffusion rates that are compatible with microsignature estimates and additionally result in an improved fit to the radial variation of the experimental phase space densities. The preferred radial diffusion coefficient for these low-energy ions is characterized by a relatively high amplitude and low-order L dependence that is most consistent with Jovian-type diffusion mechanisms including the centrifugal interchange instability and the ionospheric dynamo mechanism.
Delays in rod-mediated dark adaptation in early age-related maculopathy.

Abstract Objective To determine whether there are disturbances in the rod-mediated kinetics of dark adaptation in early age-related maculopathy (ARM). Design Comparative, observational case series. Participants Twenty older adults with early ARM as defined by one or more large (>63 μm) drusen, focal hyperpigmentation, or both, but no choroidal neovascularization or geographic atrophy, and 16 adults in the same age range with none of these fundus features. All participants had 20/25 visual acuity or better in the tested eye. Methods Dark adaptation functions were measured using a modified Humphrey Field Analyzer (Zeiss Humphrey Systems, Dublin, CA) to assess the rate of rod-mediated sensitivity recovery at 12° on the vertical meridian in the inferior visual field after exposure to the equivalent of a 98% bleach. Baseline (prebleach) scotopic sensitivity, visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, and photopic sensitivity were also measured. Main outcome measures Rod–cone break; second and third components of rod-mediated dark adaptation; time to baseline sensitivity; and baseline (prebleach) scotopic sensitivity. Results Although their visual acuity was at least 20/25, patients with early ARM on average exhibited deficits in almost all rod-mediated parameters of dark adaptation as compared with age-similar healthy participants. For example, the rod–cone break was delayed approximately 10 minutes in early ARM patients as compared with healthy participants. Age-related maculopathy patients were more likely to fall outside the normal reference range for variables representing dark adaptation kinetics than for steady-state visual functions such as scotopic sensitivity. For example, 85% of ARM patients fell outside the normal reference range in at least one dark adaptation kinetic parameter, whereas only 25% of ARM patients fell outside the normal reference range for steady-state scotopic sensitivity. Conclusions Rod-mediated kinetic parameters of dark adaptation, which reflect the sensitivity recovery of the visual cycle, are disrupted early in ARM pathogenesis.
Control of an operator-assisted mobile robotic system

In this paper, two different control methods are developed for an operator-assisted mobile robotic system for high load applications. For high load applications of mobile robots, an accurate tire model that considers wheel slip needs to be studied to achieve robustness of the system response. First, a simple operator-manipulator coordination system is developed based on explicit force control. Then, a position controller for the platform is designed to minimize the effect of wheel slip on control performance and integrated with the force controller for the operator-manipulator subsystem based on a motion coordination scheme. Then, a new type of human-robot coordination control method is developed, in which robust force control of the manipulator and impedance control of the mobile platform are integrated to achieve robust response and smooth interaction between the operator, the manipulator and the mobile platform. In simulation, the developed methods are compared for control performance on following the operator's motion intention.
On market-neutral stock trading arbitrage via linear feedback

This paper develops a new version of the so-called Simultaneous Long-Short (SLS) linear feedback stock trading controller for a class of idealized markets characterized by continuously differentiable stock prices. The two salient features of our new controller are as follows: First, all trading gains are appropriately discounted to account for “opportunity costs” associated with an alternative investment in a risk-free bond. Second, the new feedback control strategy provides the investor with flexibility to obtain trading gains which are decoupled from the market behavior at large; i.e., a certain “market neutrality condition” is satisfied. The issue of arbitrage is the focal point of this paper. That is, even if interest rate discounting of trading gains is considered, whether the market goes up or down, the account value V (t) will exceed its initial value V (0) for all non-trivial stock price variations. In recognition of the fact that the idealized market only serves as a benchmark indicating the “realm of possibilities” for a real market, we also include numerical simulations indicating the performance of the controller using real-world historical prices.
Stem cell-based therapies for osteoarthritis: Challenges and opportunities

Purpose of review Regenerative medicine offers the exciting potential of developing alternatives to total joint replacement for treating osteoarthritis. In this article, we highlight recent work that addresses key challenges of stem cellbased therapies for osteoarthritis and provide examples of innovative ways in which stem cells can aid in the treatment of osteoarthritis. Recent findings Significant progress has been made in understanding the challenges to successful stem cell therapy, such as the effects of age or disease on stem cell properties, altered stem cell function due to an inflammatory joint environment and phenotypic instability in vivo. Novel scaffold designs have been shown to enhance the mechanical properties of tissue-engineered cartilage and have also improved the integration of newly formed tissue within the joint. Emerging strategies such as injecting stem cells directly into the joint, manipulating endogenous stem cells to enhance regenerative capacity and utilizing stem cells for drug discovery have expanded the potential uses of stem cells in treating osteoarthritis. Summary
Residual-Based Diagnostics for Structural Equation Models

Classical diagnostics for structural equation models are based on aggregate forms of the data and are ill suited for checking distributional or linearity assumptions. We extend recently developed goodness-of-fit tests for correlated data based on subject-specific residuals to structural equation models with latent variables. The proposed tests lend themselves to graphical displays and are designed to detect misspecified distributional or linearity assumptions. To complement graphical displays, test statistics are defined; the null distributions of the test statistics are approximated using computationally efficient simulation techniques. The properties of the proposed tests are examined via simulation studies. We illustrate the methods using data from a study of in utero lead exposure.
New Technologies in Clinical Microbiology

Rapid identification of microorganisms in the clinical microbiology laboratory can be of great value for selection of optimal patient management strategies for infections caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, mycobacteria, and parasites. Rapid identification of microorganisms in clinical samples enables expedient de-escalation from broad-spectrum agents to targeted antimicrobial therapy. The switch to tailored therapy minimizes risks of antibiotics, namely, disruption of normal flora, toxic side effects, and selective pressure. There is a critical need for new technologies in clinical microbiology, particularly for bloodstream infections, in which associated mortality is among the highest of all infections. Just as importantly, there is a need for the clinical laboratory community to embrace the practices of evidence-based interventional laboratory medicine and collaborate in translational research projects to establish the clinical utility, cost benefit, and impact of new technologies.
Language, Thought, and Memory in Language Teaching: A Thought View*

T HOUGHT and language are distinct and autonomous in speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Furthermore, thought is central and language is a symbolic system that we use to refer in various ways to what we think. If these hypotheses are true, they will have important consequences for language teaching. This "thought" view, then, is interesting theoretically and practically and should be discussed and tested.
The Problem of Video Compression

The introduction of new, more powerful personal computers and workstations has ushered in a new are of computing. New machines must be capable of supporting numerous media data types. These data types include text, graphics, animation, audio, images, and full motion video.
Distinct Mechanisms for Size Tuning in Primate Visual Cortex

Most neurons in primary visual cortex (V1) are selective for stimulus size, a property with important implications for salient feature detection. Size selectivity involves dynamic interactions between neuronal circuits that establish the classical (center) and extraclassical (surround) of a neuron's receptive field. Although much is known about the tuning properties and stimulus selectivity of the center and surround subunits, relatively little is known about how these subunits interact to achieve size selectivity. To address this question, we examined the temporal dynamics of size selectivity in two classes of pyramidal neurons at similar hierarchical processing stages in V1 of alert monkeys. These two classes were comprised of neurons in cortical layer 6 with identified projections to the lateral geniculate nucleus. While both neuronal groups displayed comparable levels of size selectivity, the temporal dynamics of their tuning differed significantly. We compared the size tuning profiles of each cell type with a series of sum-of-Gaussian models and discovered that the receptive fields of neurons with fast-conducting axons contained an excitatory center and a suppressive surround with similar onset timing. In contrast, neurons with slow-conducting axons used two center components—an early wide-field component and a delayed narrow-field component that increased activity—in addition to the surround component. The early, wide-field component represents a novel mechanism for cortical neurons to integrate contextual information. These results demonstrate that size tuning in cortical neurons is established via multiple unique mechanisms, dictated by the rich circuit architecture in which neurons are embedded.
Interjudge Reliability and Decision Reproducibility.

The purpose of this article is to discuss the importance of decision reproducibility for performance assessments. When decisions from two judges about a student's performance using comparable tasks correlate, decisions have been considered reproducible. However, when judges differ in expectations and tasks differ in difficulty, decisions may not be independent of the particular judges or tasks encountered unless appropriate adjustments for the observable differences are made. In this study, data were analyzed with the Facets model and provided evidence that judges grade differently, whether or not the scores given correlate well. This outcome suggests that adjustments for differences among judge severities should be made before student measures are estimated to produce reproducible decisions for certification, achievement, or promotion.
Properties of triple shape memory composites prepared via polymerization-induced phase separation

Research in the field of shape memory polymers has recently witnessed the introduction of increasing complexity of material response, including such phenomena as triple/multishape behavior, temperature memory, and reversible actuation. Ordinarily, such complexity in physical behaviour is achieved through comparable complexity in material composition and synthesis. Seeking to achieve a triple shape behaviour with a simple route to materials synthesis, we introduce here a method that utilizes polymerization induced phase separation (PIPS) to yield the requisite combination of microstructure and composition. Thus, two blends incorporating epoxy and poly(e-caprolactone) were developed using commercially available reactants, one featuring a semicrystalline epoxy and the other featuring an amorphous epoxy. We show that both blends exhibited distinct transition temperatures and three modulus-temperature plateaus needed for triple shape behaviour. Despite these similarities, their physical character at room temperature is vastly different: the semicrystalline epoxy material is elastomeric and the amorphous epoxy material is highly stiff. Characterization of the triple shape behaviour revealed an ability of both systems to fix two separate deformations independently, one by PCL crystallization and a second one by epoxy crystallization or vitrification, and recover both programmed shapes separately upon heating. Given the simplicity of fabrication, we envision application as multi-shape coatings, adhesives, and films.
Support loss in micromechanical disk resonators

In light of recent efforts to implement micromechanical resonators with high-Q and high frequency, an analytical model for support loss in micromechanical disk resonators has been developed and verified with experimental results. The derived model is general and applicable to various structures and support schemes (side-supported and center-supported disks), providing significant insight to the geometrical design and choice of materials in high-Q disk resonant structures. The methodology presented in this paper can be extended to evaluate support loss in other high-frequency bulk-mode structures such as length-extensional blocks and bars.
Optimization of critical paths in circuits with level-sensitive latches

A simple extension of the critical path method is presented which allows more accurate optimization of circuits with level-sensitive latches. The extended formulation provides a sufficient set of constraints to ensure that, when all slacks are non-negative, the corresponding circuit will be free of late signal timing problems. Cycle stealing is directly permitted by the formulation. However, moderate restrictions may be necessary to ensure that the timing constraint graph is acyclic. Forcing the constraint graph to be acyclic allows a broad range of existing optimization algorithms to be easily extended to better optimize circuits with level-sensitive latches. We describe the extension of two such algorithms, both of which attempt to solve the problem of selecting parts from a library to minimize area subject to a cycle time constraint.
Dependence of Flow Properties of Polystyrene on Molecular Weight, Temperature, and Shear

Abstract An abundance of experimental and theoretical information has been published on the flow of linear amorphous polymers. The most comprehensive set of studies available involve well-characterized polystyrenes. These are linear, high molecular weight polymers anionically polymerized to narrow distributions. Most of the studies on these polystyrenes have been designed to develop and to improve general interrelationships between molecular and shear variables. The former include polymer molecular weight, distribution, and concentration; the latter include shear rate, frequency, and test temperature. Each of these studies has been reported, however, with virtually no intercomparison with related rheological results reported by others on equivalent polystyrenes.
Staged versus Simultaneous Thoracoscopic Hybrid Ablation for Persistent Atrial Fibrillation Does Not Affect Time to Recurrence of Atrial Arrhythmia

INTRODUCTION Totally thoracoscopic (TT) epicardial ablation combined with endocardial catheter ablation is an emerging treatment for persistent AF. The effects of timing of the TT and endocardial portion on AT/AF recurrence are not known. METHODS We retrospectively analyzed patients undergoing TT staged versus simultaneous hybrid AF ablation at our institution. Arrhythmia-free outcome was compared using time to recurrence (AF or AT greater than 30 seconds after a 3-month blanking period from endocardial ablation) at 12 months. All subjects had continuous ILR or PM monitoring. RESULTS Eighty-three patients (52 same-day, 31 staged) underwent TT hybrid AF ablation. Recurrence was observed in 23 (29%) patients at a median time of 147 days (IQR 91,238). In univariate analysis, a staged approach significantly increased the likelihood of detecting incomplete PVI (OR 6 [95% CI 2-17] P = 0.001). However, only longstanding persistent AF (LSP-AF) status predicted recurrence (HR 4 [95% CI 1.4-12] P = 0.01). Neither a staged approach (HR 1.0 [95% CI 0.4-2.4] P = 0.9), nor detection of incomplete PVI (HR 0.9 [95% CI 0.4-2.3] P = 0.8) predicted time to first AF/AT recurrence. CONCLUSIONS Staged hybrid ablation of AF significantly increases the likelihood of discovering incomplete PVI at the time of endocardial mapping versus a same-day procedure. However, the staged approach did not improve time to first AT/AF recurrence.
Stink Bugs (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae), a Leaffooted Bug (Hemiptera: Coreidae), and their Predators in Sorghum in Georgia

Abstract The objective of this 4-yr study was to determine species composition and abundance of stink bugs (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae) and a leaffooted bug (Hemiptera: Coreidae) and their predators in sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench spp. bicolor] in Georgia. Nezara viridula (L.) was the predominant species in sorghum; density of this stink bug was twice as high as that of the second most abundant stink bug, Oebalus pugnax pugnax (F.). Euschistus servus (Say) was the third most abundant stink bug species. Density of both Leptoglossus phyllopus (L.) and Euschistus quadrator (Rolston) was about half that of E. servus. Chinavia hilaris (Say), Thyanta custator custator (F.), Euschistus tristigmus (Say), Euschistus ictericus (L.), and Piezodorus guildinii (Westwood) were minor pests in sorghum. Adult bugs primarily fed on developing seed. For all bug species, except E. tristigmus and E. ictericus, sorghum served as a reproductive host plant. In order of descending overall abundance, bug predators present i...
Good Medicine/Bad Medicine and the Law of Evidence: Is There a Role for Proof of Character, Propensity, Prior Bad Conduct in Medical Negligence Litigation?

There are many patients injured or who die as a result of medical negligence. The American Medical Association has reported results of a physician survey, revealing that more than forty percent of the physicians surveyed "had a medical liability claim filed against them at some point in their careers." Certainly, some of these medical negligence claims are without merit. However, the meritorious claims implicate physician carelessness – the failure to comply with the applicable standard of care. Even if medical negligence claims are predictable, they are not the only professional problems facing physicians. Physicians admit patients to hospitals and practice medicine on hospital premises through grants of staff privileges. Physician misconduct or performance problems can lead to privilege suspension, limitation or revocation. Physicians also may suffer disciplinary problems. Disciplinary action is taken by "regulatory bodies that investigate and adjudicate alleged violations of law, ethics or practice standards … ." More than one study have identified multiple transgressions leading to discipline: negligence/incompetence, inappropriate prescribing, alcohol/drug use, sexual misconduct, unlicensed activity, fraud, mental/physical illness, misrepresentation of credentials. Assuming the truth of the lawsuit as an occupational hazard phenomenon, medical negligence litigation is common enough that a discussion of certain evidentiary issues is worthwhile. These issues relate to proof of physician character and reputation, propensity to practice medicine in a specific exemplary or substandard fashion, prior lawsuits, treatment of other patients and prior restrictions on privileges and licensing. Is there a place for proof of these matters in a medical negligence suit when the focus of the litigation is whether the defendant physician complied with the applicable standard of care in treating a particular patient at a particular time?
MR thermometry near metallic devices using multispectral imaging.

Purpose The lack of a technique for MR thermometry near metal excludes a growing patient population from promising treatments such as MR-guided focused ultrasound therapy. Here we explore the feasibility of multispectral imaging (MSI) for noninvasive temperature measurement in the presence of strong field inhomogeneities by exploiting the temperature dependency of the T1 relaxation time. Methods A two-dimensional inversion-recovery–prepared MSI pulse sequence (2DMSI) was implemented for artifact-reduced T1 mapping near metal. A series of T1 maps was acquired in a metallic implant phantom while increasing the phantom temperature. The measured change in T1 was analyzed with respect to the phantom temperature. For comparison, proton resonance frequency shift (PRFS) thermometry was performed. Results 2DMSI achieved artifact-reduced, single-slice T1 mapping in the presence of strong off-resonance with a spatial resolution of 1.9 mm in-plane and a temporal resolution of 5 min. The maps enabled temperature measurements over a range of 30°C with an uncertainty below 1.4°C. The quality of the resulting temperature maps was independent of the distance from the metal, whereas the PRFS-based temperature measurements were increasingly impaired with increasing off-resonance. Conclusion We demonstrated the ability to noninvasively measure temperature near metal using MSI and the T1 temperature sensitivity. Magn Reson Med 77:1162–1169, 2017. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine
Isolated unilateral pulmonary agenesis and other fetal thoracic anomalies.

Importance Although the diagnostic workup and management regimens for many of the common fetal thoracic lesions have been well described, the understanding of pulmonary agenesis is more limited. A better understanding of the published reports of this condition is essential to provide proper care for these complicated pregnancies. Objective The aims of this study were to provide a better understanding of the difficulties in the diagnosis and management of fetal thoracic lesions and to consolidate what is known about unilateral pulmonary agenesis. Evidence acquisition We performed a review of the English medical literature covering the last 20 years (1993-2013) in PubMed, MEDLINE, and MD Consult using search terms pulmonary agenesis, pulmonary aplasia, unilateral pulmonary agenesis, unilateral pulmonary aplasia, lung agenesis, lung aplasia, unilateral lung agenesis, and unilateral lung aplasia. Results Prenatal diagnosis of pulmonary agenesis and other fetal thoracic lesions can be particularly challenging given that many anomalies have similar appearance on ultrasound. Fetal magnetic resonance imaging has been used in several of the reported cases to clarify the diagnosis. Once confirmed, there are several important prognostic factors to consider in the management of unilateral pulmonary agenesis. Poor prognostic factors include right-sided agenesis, the presence of genetic abnormalities, and other associated congenital anomalies. Conclusion and relevance Fetal magnetic resonance imaging can be a useful imaging modality when the diagnosis is unclear after ultrasound imaging. The management of cases with a poor prognosis should be guided by the nature of the associated anomalies. Cases of isolated pulmonary agenesis have an overall good prognosis and can be managed conservatively during pregnancy, with consideration of delivery at a tertiary care facility in case postnatal respiratory issues arise.
Investigation of Vibrio parahaemolylicus pollusion

Objective To investigation the Vibrio parahaemolylicus in marine products and stool spcimen. Methods According to the rule of aetiology examination of preventive medicine of Guangdong and urea enzyme test. Results 5 Vibrio parahaemolylicus has been isolated in marine products by positive rate 8.47%, while not in stool specimen. Conclusions The urea enzyme test is very significant and common method for Vibrio parahaemolylicus identification.
US forest products in the global economy

The United States’ shares of global industrial roundwood production and derivative products have declined precipitously since the 1990s. We evaluate the extent of these declines compared with those of major producing countries from 1961 to 2013. We find that the US global share of industrial roundwood peaked at 28% in 1999 but by 2013 was at 17%, with the decline attributable to a combination of cyclical factors and long-run trends. Wood products output declines are linked to low construction levels, whereas paper’s decline is connected to the offshoring of US manufacturing and growth in electronic media. Prospects are for increased use of wood in construction as the housing market returns to long-run averages in the coming years. However, the paper sector is unlikely to recover to its 1990s levels of output, implying that it is unlikely that the United States will return to its historical highs in global market share of industrial roundwood production.
Capecitabine in Colorectal Cancer

Capecitabine (Xeloda) is the first orally available fluoropyrimidine approved for use in patients with cancer. It was initially approved for use in metastatic breast cancer, but significant data also support its use in the management of metastatic colorectal cancer. Capecitabine relies on a series of metabolic steps, the last of which occurs primarily within cancer cells. This results in selective activation of the compound within cancer cells, thereby reducing systemic toxicities and allowing for greater dose intensity. This article reviews selected phase I, phase II, and phase III clinical trials conducted in patients with colorectal cancer that document the metabolic activation of this compound and support its use in patients with advanced colorectal cancer.
Ngram time series model to predict activity type and energy cost from wrist, hip and ankle accelerometers: implications of age.

To develop and test time series single site and multi-site placement models, we used wrist, hip and ankle processed accelerometer data to estimate energy cost and type of physical activity in adults. Ninety-nine subjects in three age groups (18–39, 40–64, 65 + years) performed 11 activities while wearing three triaxial accelereometers: one each on the non-dominant wrist, hip, and ankle. During each activity net oxygen cost (METs) was assessed. The time series of accelerometer signals were represented in terms of uniformly discretized values called bins. Support Vector Machine was used for activity classification with bins and every pair of bins used as features. Bagged decision tree regression was used for net metabolic cost prediction. To evaluate model performance we employed the jackknife leave-one-out cross validation method. Single accelerometer and multi-accelerometer site model estimates across and within age group revealed similar accuracy, with a bias range of −0.03 to 0.01 METs, bias percent of −0.8 to 0.3%, and a rMSE range of 0.81–1.04 METs. Multi-site accelerometer location models improved activity type classification over single site location models from a low of 69.3% to a maximum of 92.8% accuracy. For each accelerometer site location model, or combined site location model, percent accuracy classification decreased as a function of age group, or when young age groups models were generalized to older age groups. Specific age group models on average performed better than when all age groups were combined. A time series computation show promising results for predicting energy cost and activity type. Differences in prediction across age group, a lack of generalizability across age groups, and that age group specific models perform better than when all ages are combined needs to be considered as analytic calibration procedures to detect energy cost and type are further developed.
Dietary fats varying in their fatty acid composition differentially influence follicular growth in cows fed isoenergetic diets

The working hypothesis was that dietary fats differing in fatty acid composition would differentially influence ovarian follicular growth. Cows (n = 27) were fed isoenergetic, isonitrogenous, and isofibrous diets containing no added fat (control; CT, n = 7) or diets supplemented with fats containing primarily saturated (SAT, n = 7), polyunsaturated (PU, n = 7), or highly polyunsaturated (HPU, n = 6) fatty acids. Coincident changes in serum lipid metabolites, insulin, and GH and the concentration of IGF-I in large and medium-sized follicles also were examined. Body weights and body condition scores remained similar for all groups throughout the study. Polyunsaturated fat increased (diet x day, P = .06) the number of medium-sized follicles on d 5 through 9 of a synchronized estrous cycle within 3 wk of onset of feeding and maximized (P < .001) this to a fourfold difference at ovariectomy after 7 wk. Fats with predominantly SAT and HPU tended (P < .10) to produce these effects after 7 wk. All fat-supplemented diets increased serum concentrations of total cholesterol (P < .05), GH (P < .05), and follicular fluid IGF-I in large follicles (P < .065) compared to CT but differentially influenced serum concentrations of insulin. Polyunsaturated fat stimulated a marked increase (P < .001) in serum insulin relative to controls within 3 wk, whereas SAT and HPU increased (P < .05) serum insulin only after 6 to 7 wk. We conclude that consumption of PU fatty acids stimulates a greater rate of ovarian follicular growth in cattle compared to CT, AT, and HPU. Future research should investigate the potential role of insulin in mediating PU effects on follicular growth.