cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt for acute variceal hemorrhage.

Acute variceal hemorrhage is life-threatening and requires a multidisciplinary approach for effective therapy. Transfusion of blood products, systemic therapy with vasopressin, octreotide, and selective β-blockers and early endoscopic therapy are often effective; however, uncontrollable variceal hemorrhage is best treated with transjugular intrahepatic porto-systemic shunt (TIPS) creation. This procedure involves establishment of a direct pathway between the hepatic veins and the portal veins to decompress the portal venous hypertension that is the source of the patient's hemorrhage. The procedure is technically challenging, especially in critically ill patients, and has a mortality of 30%-50% in the emergency setting, but has greater than 90% effectiveness in controlling bleeding from gastroesophageal varices. In this review, we discuss the technical aspects of TIPS and briefly examine the results of TIPS in managing acute variceal hemorrhage.
Clustered Genes Encoding the Methyltransferases of Methanogenesis from Monomethylamine

Coenzyme M (CoM) is methylated during methanogenesis from monomethyamine in a reaction catalyzed by three proteins. Using monomethylamine, a 52-kDa polypeptide termed monomethylamine methyltransferase (MMAMT) methylates the corrinoid cofactor bound to a second polypeptide, monomethylamine corrinoid protein (MMCP). Methylated MMCP then serves as a substrate for MT2-A, which methylates CoM. The genes for these proteins are clustered on 6.8 kb of DNA in Methanosarcina barkeri MS. The gene encoding MMCP (mtmC) is located directly upstream of the gene encoding MMAMT (mtmB). The gene encoding MT2-A (mtbA) was found 1.1 kb upstream of mtmC, but no obvious open reading frame was found in the intergenic region between mtbA and mtmC. A single monocistronic transcript was found for mtbA that initiated 76 bp from the translational start. Separate transcripts of 2.4 and 4.7 kb were detected, both of which carried mtmCB. The larger transcript also encoded mtmP, which is homologous to the APC family of cationic amine permeases and may therefore encode a methylamine permease. A single transcriptional start site was found 447 bp upstream of the translational start of mtmC. MtmC possesses the corrinoid binding motif found in corrinoid proteins involved in dimethylsulfide- and methanol-dependent methanogenesis, as well as in methionine synthase. The open reading frame of mtmB was interrupted by a single in-frame, midframe, UAG codon which was also found in mtmB from M. barkeri NIH. A mechanism that circumvents UAG-directed termination of translation must operate during expression of mtmB in this methanogen.
OBSERVATIONS ON THE BLOOD CYTOLOGY IN EXPERIMENTAL SYPHILIS : I. THE PERIOD OF DISEASE ACTIVITY.

The mean blood cell levels of 35 latent syphilitic rabbits in which all lesions had undergone spontaneous regression and complete healing were compared with weighted values for normal rabbits. The only differences noted were in the red cell count and hemoglobin content, both of which were significantly lower in the experimental group than the normal values. A parallelism was observed between the blood cell changes of the experimental disease after spontaneous regression of lesions, and the cell changes in the human disease after treatment. This parallelism lends additional weight to deductions drawn from the experimental disease as applied to human syphilis.
The Asia-Pacific context for technology management

The Asia-Pacific has been the most dynamic region in the world. Yet beyond Japan, little has been published about technology management in this region of the world. In this introduction, we first describe the Asia-Pacific context through economic data, and then raise research issues.
The Scattering of Light from Surface Polaritons: Line Intensities and Line Shapes

In this paper, we present a summary of our recent work on the theory of light scattering from surface polaritons. The emphasis is placed on contact with the results of Ushioda et al, who have observed surface polaritons in the Raman spectrum of light forward-scattered from a GaAs film on a sapphire substrate, with the laser beam incident through the substrate. The theory accounts very well for the relative intensity of the surface polariton peaks in the near forward direction, the large forward/backward asymmetry in the cross section, and the shapes of the structures observed in the Raman spectrum.
Development of a nanoparticle time-temperature sensor for passive and active RFID

We have developed a thermally activated Time-Temperature Indicator (TTI) suitable for use in passive and active RFID applications. In general, this type of indicator can be used in the cold chain to monitor the thermal age of foods and pharmaceuticals as well as provide more accurate estimates of shelf life. In this manuscript we have sought to design an indicator with a time-temperature profile similar to that of milk. The sensor is composed of a dc resistance measurement of Cobalt/Antimony (Co/Sb) multilayer films. Upon deposition and processing, the Co self-assembles into single domain magnetic nanoparticles approximately 20 nm in-plane and 4 nm perpendicular to the plane resembling nano-pancakes embedded within the Sb matrix. At ambient temperatures the Co nanoparticles ensemble magnetization decreases. This is a thermally activated process that follows an Arrhenius like behavior. As the sample magnetization decreases, the resistivity of the material also decreases following the same thermally activated behavior as the magnetization.
Security operations center — A need for an academic environment

Academic Institutes are considered as a backbone of any country. Security of its information resources (academic and research) is of paramount importance. The statistics have shown that academic institutions are among the top three targets for cybercrimes. There are many security steps that are taken by institutes to address this challenge. Firewalls, Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) and Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS) are some of the security controls that are deployed to circumvent these threats. However, the sophistication and novelty in the attacks make the normal security procedures inadequate. To fulfill the changing requirements of information security, the institutes need to invest in developing the Security Operation Centers (SOC). SOC is a comprehensive infrastructure that works in tandem with Computer Security Incident Response Team (CSIRT) to manage the security operations of the organization. SOC can provide better coordinated security and rapid response against threats and vulnerabilities throughout the networks. This paper highlights the need of establishing a SOC in academic institutes.
Approach to Relapsed Refractory Myeloma

Despite tremendous advances in the initial management of patients with myeloma, now translating to at least a doubling of median overall survival in the last decade, this disease remains incurable in nearly all patients [1]. Although time to first relapse has been extended with superior induction, consolidation, and maintenance strategies, relapse is inevitable. With the emergence of many novel agents in the relapsed setting, options for providers and patients have dramatically increased. The optimal sequencing, combination, and dosing of these agents have yet to be determined. Indeed, with so many therapeutic options available, the clinician must have a rational, risk stratified and feasible to approaching patients in relapse.
Spectral Edges as Optimal Stimuli for the Dorsal Cochlear Nucleus

The principal neurons of the dorsal cochlear nucleus (DCN) form one of several parallel pathways through the brainstem from the cochlear nucleus to the inferior colliculus (Rouiller 1997). Unlike the neurons of the ventral cochlear nucleus, DCN principal cells give strongly non-linear responses to sound (Nelken et al. 1997; Yu and Young 2000), meaning that models of DCN neurons often do not predict the responses to complex sounds. Such nonlinearity is typical of auditory neurons (e.g. Eggermontet al. 1983; Machenset al. 2004) and poses difficulties for studies of the representation of sound in the brain, because it is not possible to obtain a comprehensive view of the representation of sound by such nonlinear neurons. In the case of the DCN, information about function has been provided by behavioral experiments in which the nucleus or its output tract were lesioned (e.g. May 2000), leading to deficits in sound localization. In addition, the DCN receives inputs from various non-auditory sources, including the somatosensory system (Davis et al. 1996; Shore 2005) and these seem to have specifically to do with the position of the external ear in cats (Kanold and Young 2001). These results are consistent with the finding that DCN neurons in the cat respond sensitively with inhibition to the acoustic notches in the head-related transfer functions of the cat external ear (reviewed in Young and Davis 2001). Together, these data suggest a role in sound localization for the DCN, especially in localization based on spectral cues.
Lateral Resistance of Piles in Cohesive Soils

Methods are presented for the calculation of the deflections at working loads, the ultimate lateral resistance, and moment distribution for laterally loaded single piles and pile groups. Both unrestrained and restrained piles have been considered. The lateral deflections have been calculated using the concept of a coefficient of subgrade reaction. The ultimate lateral resistance has been evaluated. The results from the proposed methods of analysis have been compared with available test data. Satisfactory agreement was found at working loads between measured and calculated deflections and between measured and calculated maximum bending moments.
Photographic standards for the massive weight loss patient.

BackgroundPhotographic standards issued by the Plastic Surgery Educational Foundation ensure accurate comparisons between preoperative and postoperative imaging. These standards, however, do not properly display the circumferential body ptosis seen in massive weight loss (MWL) patients. Photographic
Modeling of Steady Laminar Flames for One-dimensional Premixed Jets of Heptane/Air and Octane/Air Mixtures

A model is proposed for quasi-one-dimensional steady flame development in the con- figuration of an inviscid, premixed fuel jet injected into air. The governing equations are written within the framework of a reduced kinetic model based on constituents and species. The reduced kinetic model, previously exercised in a constant-volume perfectly- stirred reactor mode, has been successful at predicting ignition and combustion product and temperature evolution for n-heptane, iso-octane, PRF fuel combinations, and mixtures of iso-octane with either n-pentane or iso-hexane. The differential governing equations have the option of an axially variable area and they are coupled with a real gas equation of state. The flame development model accounts for a full diffusion matrix, and thermal conductiv- ity computed for the species mixture. Results from four simulations at various conditions are presented.
Standardization Of TuberculinAssay on The Basis of The Spermatocyte Reaction

The reason for this is that we do not know what the active principle of tuberculin is. No preparation containing the active principle and nothing else has ever been made. We do not know whether there is a single active principle or several responsible for the tuberculin reaction. We are far from sure of the general chemical nature of the substance which is active. In gross chemical fractionation of tuberculin, activity remains with the protein portion. This does not necessarily mean that the active substance is protein. It may be merely absorbed by protein. Furthermore, on finer fractionation protein fractions which are not active can be separated from tuberculin.' Hence chemical evaluation, such as is practiced in the assay of opium or belladonna root, is at present an impossibility. Chemical assay being out of the question, we are forced to fall back on some biologic method. Biologic methods are available for the measurement of active principles in biologically active preparations when the chemical nature of the active principle is imperfectly understood, or chemical analysis is extremely difficult. Biologic assay is officially recognized by the United States Pharmacopeia in the case of several drugs, notably digitalis and aconite, and in the case of the antitoxic serums for diphtheria and tetanus. Another well-known biologic evaluation is that used in the assay of insulin. The dosage of diphtheria and tetanus antitoxins and diphtheria toxin-antitoxin mixtures, and of insulin, is based on biologically deter-
Ear Fertilization and Japanese Beetle Damage in Sweet Corn

Expression of damage to sweet corn by the Japanese beetle ( Popillia japonica Newin.) depends on the amount of uninterrupted time available for the pollen to fertilize the ear completely. In Tendermost sweet corn the minimum time is about 8 hours, as compared with 7 hours for field corn. In years of heavy beetle infestation one treatment during silking will suffice if followed by recommended measures for control of the corn ear worm ( Heliothis zea (Boddie)). Light to moderate beetle infestations have no effect on marketable quality of sweet corn.
Exploration of a sulfide deposit using joint inversion of magnetic and induced polarization data

Geophysical inversions play an important role in today’s mining exploration. Accompanying the availability of multiple types of geophysical data collected over the same study area is the need of jointly inverting them all and generating a common earth model, as opposed to the common practice of separately and independently inverting each data set. We investigate in this paper the use of multi-domain joint clustering inversion of magnetic and IP data in the context of sulfide deposit exploration. We compare the recovered models from joint inversion with those from L2-norm inversion, L1-norm inversion and separate clustering inversion of single data type, and demonstrate that only the jointly inverted models can reliably represent the complex geological structures in such a setting.
Syntheses and Dynamics of Donor−Acceptor [2]Catenanes in Water

A subset of mechanically interlocked molecules, namely, donor−acceptor [2]catenanes, have been produced in aqueous solutions in good yields from readily available precursors. The catenations are templated by strong hydrophobic and [π···π] stacking interactions, which serve to assemble the corresponding supramolecular precursors, prior to postassembly covalent modification. Dynamic 1H NMR spectroscopic investigations performed on one of these [2]catenanes reveal that the pirouetting motion of the butadiyne-triethylene glycol chain occurs with a dramatically lower activation enthalpy, yet with a much higher negative activation entropy in water, compared to organic solvents. The preparations of mechanically interlocked molecules in water constitute the basis for the future development of complex functional molecular machinery in aqueous environments.
Investigation of Effects of D-Glucosamine on Growth of Neurogliocytoma Cells

Objective:To study the effects of D-glucosamine on the growth inhibition and induction of apoptosis in the neurogliocytoma cells in vitro.Methods:Cell proliferation was examined by MTT essay to optimize D-glucosamine concentrations.Cell cycles were detected based on cell DNA contents by flow cytometer(FCA).Results:D-glucosamine had significant inhibition on the growth of neurogliocytoma cells in vitro.The concentration of D-glucosamine was 3.5 mg·L-1,and had maximal inhibition effects,the inhibition ratio was 21.4%,respectively.FCA analysis of U251 cells treated with D-glucosamine showed higher percentages in G2-M stage.Conclusion:D-glucosamine can restrain the growth of neurogliocytoma cells in vitro.It is postulated that growth retardation occurs at the G2-M stage.
Are Female Soccer Players at an Increased Risk of Second Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury Compared With Their Athletic Peers

Background:Female soccer players have a well-known risk for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, but few studies have reported on second ACL injuries in this population.Purpose:To (1) report the rates of subsequent ACL injury (ipsilateral graft rupture or contralateral tear) in competitive female soccer players, (2) compare these rates with those of other female athletes of similar competitive level, (3) determine risk factors for second ACL injury, and (4) report clinical outcome scores in this population.Study Design:Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.Methods:The medical records at a single institution were reviewed for female patients who were injured during a competitive athletic event and treated with primary ACL reconstruction (ACLR) between 1998 and 2013. Patients were followed for a mean of 68.8 months postoperatively (range, 24-115.2 months). Clinical outcome was obtained via Lysholm and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) scores. Soccer players were matched 1:1 to non-soccer at...
A Simple Structural Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Method for 3D Mapping between Head Skin Tattoos and Brain Landmarks

A successful brain surgery requires pre-surgery localization of various brain areas. An accurate craniotomy, which gives perfect access to such brain area of interest is needed and is dependent on mathematically establishing the relationship between head landmarks and structural magnetic resonance image (MRI) scans. While typical stereotactic procedures rely upon external cranial landmarks and standardized atlases for localization of subcortical neural regions, visualization of the internal morphology of the brain in vivo can be achieved by MRI. Our lab, when possible, also uses MRIs on our post-surgical monkeys to get precise information on the exact placement of implanted microwires. Our stereotactic instrument and head-posts on the monkeys are compatible with a magnetic resonance unit and we have developed a model to analyze the magnetic resonance imaging results and calculate 3D mappings between external landmarks, skin tattoos on the primates’ heads and brain areas of interest. This allowed us to overcome the limitations, inaccuracies, and cost prohibitions of the traditional stereotactic methods and helped us make reliable localization of subcortical targets in the monkey brain.
Explaining Voluntary Blood Donation from a Communication Perspective

Using the Communication Mediation Model, this study argues that interpersonal communication holds considerable potential to motivate and facilitate voluntary blood donation. To test this claim, three blood donation scenarios are used: past donation, future intention, and intention during an emergency. Results from path analysis using survey data from Colombia show that talking about blood donation is central to voluntary blood donation. The direct effects of blood talk on past donation and future intention are significant. Importantly, blood talk mediates the contribution of other variables in the model, including media use and pro-civic behaviors. Findings hold true for both first-time and repeat donors. RESUMO Utilizando o Modelo de Mediacao Comunicativa, argumenta-se que a comunicacao interpessoal tem potencial como motivadora e facilitadora da doacao voluntaria de sangue. Para avaliar este argumento, sao usados tres tipos de doacao: doacao passada, intencao futura e intencao em caso de emergencia. Os resultados da analise de rota usando dados de uma enquete representativa da populacao colombiana mostram que falar sobre doacao e central na doacao. Os efeitos diretos da conversa sobre a doacao passada e a intencao futura sao significativos. Especial interesse apre senta a forma como esta conversa atua como mediadora do uso de meios massivos e uma serie de variaveis pro-civicas. Os resultados se aplicam para doadores por primeira vez e reincidentes. La donacion voluntaria de sangre desde la perspectiva comunicativa A doacao voluntaria de sangue a partir da perspectiva comunicativa
Tadpole and Mixed Linear/Tadpole Micelles of Diblock Copolymers: Thermodynamics and Chain Exchange Kinetics

Chain architecture is known to control macromolecular self-assembly and furthermore affect in a more complex way nanostructure stability. Equilibrium properties and chain exchange kinetics between micelles formed by tadpole-shaped diblock copolymers containing a loop-shaped hydrophobic block and a linear hydrophilic block are investigated using dissipative particle dynamics simulations. We found that tadpoles form micelles of smaller size and aggregation number than the corresponding linear diblock copolymers and have faster chain exchange kinetics, demonstrating that chain architecture can alter its effective hydrophobicity. Similar observations are made for linear diblock copolymer with a less hydrophobic core block indicating that the more compact conformation of tadpole core-forming block makes it “less hydrophobic”. We show that tadpole and linear block copolymers form mixed micelles with tadpoles (or less hydrophobic chains) located on the periphery of the micelle core. The chain exchange kinetics b...
Population Pharmacokinetics: Some Observations in Pediatric Modeling for Drug Clearance

The objective of this study is to evaluate the predictive performance of several models to predict drug clearance in preterm and term neonates. Five models using different types of allometric and linear models were developed. Two sets of data were used to develop these models (data from preterm neonates to adults and data from preterm and term neonates). Models were also developed with (normalized to 70 kg) or without body weight normalization (body weight 1 kg). From the literature, clearance values for four drugs from neonates to adults were obtained. External data were used to evaluate the predictive performance of these models in preterm and term neonates. The results of the study indicated that (1) normalization to a standard body weight had no impact on the predictive performance of the models, (2) the model developed from preterm neonates to adults using fixed exponent 0.75 provided inaccurate estimate (overestimation) of drug clearance in neonates, (3) a far superior prediction of clearance was observed with the model when the exponents of allometry were estimated than the model using exponent 0.75, (4) linear models with the exception of the model with intercept provided comparable results to the estimated exponent model and were superior in their predictive performance to the model using exponent 0.75, and (5) when the models were developed from neonate data, the predictive performance of all models were similar. Overall, the study indicated that body weight normalization had no impact on the performance of model prediction, the exponents of allometry in pharmacostatistical models should be estimated rather than fixed, and more studies are needed to evaluate the suitability of linear models for the prediction of drug clearance in neonates.
Optimal Scheduling of Thermal Power Generation Using Evolutionary Algorithms

The optimal scheduling of power generation is a major problem in Electricity generating industry. This scheduling problem is complex because of many constraints which can not be violated while finding optimal or near-optimal scheduling. A real-time scheduling of generating units involves the selection of units for for operation to meet the consumer requirement. These decisions are to be taken so as to minimize the sum of startup, banking and expected running costs subject to the demand and spinning_reserve, and satisfying the minimum down-time and up-time constraints of generating units. So the objective of the scheduling is to generate power to meet the load with minimum cost of generation. We tackled the problem with heuristic knowledge (load forecast) and genetic search technique. The paper examines the feasibility of using genetic algorithms, and reports results in determining a near-optimal commitment order of thermal units in a studied power system.
Techniques used and efficacy of volleyball skills in relation to gender

The purposes of this study were to determine reference values for the techniques used and assess the efficacy of these techniques in relation to gender in volleyball. Twenty-two matches from the XV...
Reversible swelling of SBMV is associated with reversible disordering.

The structures of the compact and swollen southern bean mosaic virus (SBMV) particles have been compared by X-ray diffraction and proton magnetic resonance (PMR). Small-angle X-ray scattering showed that removal of divalent cations at alkaline pH causes the particle diameter to increase from 289A in the native SBMV by 12% in solution and by 9% in microcrystals. The swelling is fully reversible upon re-addition of Ca2+ and Mg2+ ions, as shown by the X-ray patterns at 6A resolution and by the 270MHz PMR spectra. Beyond 30A resolution, X-ray patterns from the compact SBMV in solution and in microcrystals show fine fringes of ∼1/225A-1 width extending to 6A resolution, whereas patterns from the swollen SBMV in solution and in microcrystals show only broader fringes of ∼1/90A-1 width, Model calculations demonstrate that the fine fringes from compact SBMV arise from regular packing of the protein subunits on the icosahedral surface lattice; the smearing of fine fringes in the swollen virus pattern can be simulated by uncorrelated displacements of pentamers and hexamers of protein subunits, with a standard deviation of 6A from their mean locations. The PMR spectrum of compact SBMV is poorly resolved, whereas PMR spectrum of swollen SBMV shows sharp resonances in the methyl proton region. The line-narrowing for a fraction of the aliphatic protons upon swelling cannot be accounted for by rotational relaxation of the particle of 6×106MW, but must be attributed to internal motion in small regions of the protein subunits.
Human-centered methods for improving API usability

Application programming interfaces (APIs) are the way that developers reuse functionality supplied in libraries, software development kits (SDKs), toolkits, frameworks, etc. By adapting a variety of user-centered methods from human-computer interaction (HCI), we have studied usability problems both for API users and for API designers. These studies revealed barriers both at a low level (such as using the factory pattern in an API) and at a high level (such as the lack of example code in the documentation). In lab studies, we have shown that some patterns can slow programmers down by a factor of 10, and in the field, we have seen problematic APIs block programmers for up to a week while they waited for an answer from the API designer. The implications of our results can guide the design of the API, and, when APIs cannot be changed, inspire novel documentation and tools to help use the APIs. Our collaboration with SAP resulted in significant improvements to their APIs, documentation and tools.This talk will summarize results presented in our recent paper on Improving API Usability [2], along with our newly proposed work on studying the needs of API designers. I will also cover a wide variety of HCI methods we have found to be effective for better understanding and meeting the needs of API users of all levels: novice, professional, and end-user programmers (EUPs). We have applied these methods across all activities of API development: requirements and problem analysis, design, development, testing, and deployment [1]. Since programming is a human process, we have found that many of these HCI methods can be used without change to answer many useful questions, but for other questions, we have needed to create new human-centered methods.
Identifying Key Aspects of Success for Product Service Systems

As companies struggle with the various challenges of their PSS, identification and elimination of possible errors and potential challenges early in the design phase is crucial. This paper aims to identify the universal key aspects of success for a PSS; thus, providing a general foundation for many companies within the industry to focus their initial efforts. Utilizing historical and contemporary literature within the PSS field, one central aspect was identified with three additional aspects serving to support the core aspect that all PSS are centered around – creating customer value. Standardization, product usage information (PUI), and environmental sustainability all support the goal of ultimately adding customer value. While there is a potentially unlimited number of additional individual supporting aspects that are important and contribute to this objective, these do not apply to all PSS universally. As a combinational effort, the three supporting aspects help to ensure that value is added to the customer in different, but related routes. These aspects involved may be utilized to allow companies to examine and analyze their current PSS and implement these aspects into their PSS operations and/or, ideally, reflecting on them during the PSS design phase. A limitation of this study is, that the universal nature of the 4 identified key aspects reflects only the PSS cases within the literature reviewed.
The WAND local anesthetic delivery system: a more pleasant experience for anal anesthesia.

PURPOSE: The WAND™ is a computer-controlled local anesthetic delivery system. Its use has been proven to be more comfortable for dental patients. The purpose of this study is to explore its applicability to anal procedures. Our hypothesis is that the WAND™ will provide greater comfort during anesthesia delivery while achieving the same anesthetic effect as traditional syringe technique. METHODS: Twenty patients with painless anal pathology were randomized to receive anal anesthesia using either the WAND™ or traditional syringe technique to a randomly selected half of the anoderm (right or left). The opposite side was then anesthetized by the alternate method, allowing patients to act as their own control. Objective and subjective pain scores were obtained from the patient after each mode of delivery. An independent observer interpreted the patient's tolerance by giving a subjective pain score. The volume of anesthetic used was recorded. Adequacy of anesthesia was tested by a pinch test. RESULTS: Sixteen (80 percent) of the 20 patients preferred the use of the WAND™. Objective and subjective pain scores per the patients and subjective pain scores per the observer were significantly lower for the WAND™ than for traditional syringe technique (P<0.05). The mean volume of local anesthetic used with the WAND™ was 1.7 ml compared with 3.2 ml for traditional syringe technique (P<0.005). Anesthesia achieved with the WAND™ was as good as that achieved with traditional syringe technique when the pinch test was used. CONCLUSION: The WAND™ is as effective as the traditional syringe technique in the delivery of anal anesthesia while providing a more comfortable experience for the patient.
From nanodiamond to nanowires.

Recent advances in the fabrication and characterization of semiconductor and metallic nanowires are proving very successful in meeting the high expectations of nanotechnologists. Although the nanoscience surrounding sp3 bonded carbon nanotubes has continued to flourish over recent years the successful synthesis of the sp3 analogue, diamond nanowires, has been limited. This prompts questions as to whether diamond nanowires are fundamentally unstable. By applying knowledge obtained from examining the structural transformations in nanodiamond, a framework for analyzing the structure and stability of diamond nanowires may be established. One possible framework will be discussed here, supported by results of ab initio density functional theory calculations used to study the structural relaxation of nanodiamond and diamond nanowires. The results show that the structural stability and electronic properties of diamond nanowires are dependent on the surface morphology, crystallographic direction of the principal axis, and the degree of surface hydrogenation.
HPL and DGEMM performance variability on the Xeon Platinum 8160 processor

Initial testing of a cluster equipped with Intel Xeon Platinum 8160 processors showed occasional slow single-node HPL benchmark performance — approximately 0.4% of single- node results were more than 10% slower than expected. We describe a systematic series of experiments using simplified benchmarks and hardware performance counters, showing that the increased run times were associated with increased DRAM traffic, that this was caused by increased L2 cache miss rates, and that these were caused by snoop filter evictions. These evictions resulted from associativity conflicts in the snoop filters, and were traced to pathological interactions of data physical addresses with the hash function that distributes addresses across the coherence agents on the processor. For the HPL benchmark, switching from 2MiB hugepages to 1GiB hugepages eliminated the conflict and the associated slowdowns. The snoop filter conflict was later reproduced using a simple array summation kernel, suggesting that other applications could be impacted.
All Digital Low Power Aging Sensor for Counterfeit Detection in Integrated Circuits

The globalization of the integrated circuit (IC) design flow has led to increased security vulnerabilities. Modern IC supply chain consists of multiple untrusted entities which makes it vulnerable to potential compromise by attackers, who can insert counterfeit ICs at any stage in the supply chain. The deployment of counterfeit ICs threatens the security and reliability of electronic components and systems. For this reason, it is imperative to mitigate these risks by developing robust counterfeit IC detection techniques. In this paper, we investigated the viability of a completely digital design technique for identifying counterfeit ICs by exploiting changes in the threshold voltage. We introduce a solution that is based on the premise that a recycled/remarked or reused IC exhibits a degraded threshold voltage $(V_{t})$ that leads to changes in the timing characteristics of CMOS designs. In contrast to currently available counterfeit IC detection techniques, the proposed method measures IC degradation after it has been used and does not require a reference IC to provide a baseline signature. We propose a robust aging sensor for detecting changes in $V_{t}$ with a sensitivity of about 5%. The proposed solution is implemented on a 45nm predictive technology model (PTM). The simulation results demonstrate that our design requires power overhead of about 9.2%, which is lower when compared to the next best existing solution to the best of our knowledge.
A numerical study of rays in random media

Statistics of electromagnetic rays in a random medium are studied numerically by the Monte Carlo method. Two dimensional random surfaces with prescribed correlation functions are used to simulate the random media. Rays are then traced in these sample media. Statistics of the ray properties such as the ray positions and directions are computed. Histograms showing the distributions of the ray positions and directions at different points along the ray path as well as at given points in space are given. The numerical experiment is repeated for different cases corresponding to weakly and strongly random media with isotropic and anisotropic irregularities. Results are compared with those derived from theoretical investigations whenever possible.
Ordering-mediated local nano-clustering results in unusually large Hall-Petch strengthening coefficients in high entropy alloys

This paper reports a dramatic increase in the grain boundary strengthening or Hall-Petch coefficient, K, by systematically investigating the effect of Al addition on tensile yield strength in CoFeN...
In-laboratory breast specimen radiography reduces tissue block utilization and improves turnaround time of pathologic examination.

This study was performed to determine whether in-laboratory specimen radiography reduces turnaround time or block utilization in surgical pathology. Specimens processed during a 48-day trial of an in-lab cabinet radiography device (Faxitron) were compared to a control group of specimens imaged in the mammography suite during a prior 1-year period, and to a second group of specimens not undergoing imaging of any type. Cases imaged in the mammography suite had longer turnaround time than cases not requiring imaging (by 1.15 days for core biopsies, and 1.73 days for mastectomies; p 0.05 for core biopsies, lumpectomies and mastectomies). Mastectomies imaged in-lab required submission of fewer blocks than controls not undergoing any imaging (mean reduction of 10.6 blocks). Availability of in-lab radiography resulted in clinically meaningful improvements in turnaround time and economically meaningful reductions in block utilization.
Effects of 2-Bromoethanesulfonic Acid and 2- Chloroethanesulfonic Acid on Acetate Utilization in a Continuous-Flow Methanogenic Fixed-Film Column

2-Bromoethanesulfonic acid (BESA) and 2-chloroethanesulfonic acid (CESA) have been reported to be potent inhibitors of methane formation during methanogenic decomposition in batch cultures. However, in a laboratory-scale continuous-flow methanogenic fixed-film column containing a predominance of acetate-decarboxylating methanogens, BESA at 6 x 10 M produced only a 41% inhibition of acetate utilization, and CESA at 5.4 x 10 M produced a 37% inhibition of acetate utilization. BESA and CESA concentrations were not monitored in the effluent, so their fate is unknown. The organisms in the column were capable of degrading trace halogenated aliphatic compounds ( approximately 30 mug/liter) with acetate (100 mg/liter) as the primary substrate. Previous exposure of the cells to halogenated organic compounds may have conferred resistance to BESA and CESA. Degradation of the inhibitor compounds is another possible explanation for the observed effects.
A novel pump combiner for high power fiber lasers

A new type of combiner is proposed that permits the efficient introduction of multimode diode pump radiation in a distributed manner along the fiber, which can lead to lower thermal loading. The coupling efficiency is expected to be high, and in addition, this coupler reduces the amount of signal radiation damaging the diodes.
Patterns and correlates of spit tobacco use among high school males in rural California.

Objective To assess patterns and correlates of spit [smokeless] tobacco (ST) use among high school males in rural California.
The Tumor Suppressor DAP Kinase Is a Target of RSK-Mediated Survival Signaling

Summary The viability of vertebrate cells depends on a complex signaling interplay between survival factors and cell-death effectors. Subtle changes in the equilibrium between these regulators can result in abnormal cell proliferation or cell death, leading to various pathological manifestations [1, 2]. Death-associated protein kinase (DAPK) is a multidomain calcium/calmodulin (CaM)-dependent Ser/Thr protein kinase with an important role in apoptosis regulation and tumor suppression [3–6]. The molecular signaling mechanisms regulating this kinase, however, remain unclear. Here, we show that DAPK is phosphorylated upon activation of the Ras-extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathway [7]. This correlates with the suppression of the apoptotic activity of DAPK. We demonstrate that DAPK is a novel target of p90 ribosomal S6 kinases (RSK) 1 and 2, downstream effectors of ERK1/2 [8–11]. Using mass spectrometry, we identified Ser-289 as a novel phosphorylation site in DAPK, which is regulated by RSK. Mutation of Ser-289 to alanine results in a DAPK mutant with enhanced apoptotic activity, whereas the phosphomimetic mutation (Ser289Glu) attenuates its apoptotic activity. Our results suggest that RSK-mediated phosphorylation of DAPK is a unique mechanism for suppressing the proapoptotic function of this death kinase in healthy cells as well as Ras/Raf-transformed cells.
Bubble Generation in the Micro-Channel With a Barrier

Micro-bubble generation in a rectangular co-flowing micro-channel with a cross-section area of 1.69 × 0.07mm2 was experimentally and numerically investigated. Air and water were used to be the gas and liquid, respectively. Mixtures of water-glycerol and water-Tween 20 were also used to obtain the effect of viscosity and surface tension. The experimental data shows that the break-up process is periodic under certain operating conditions. The bubble dynamics are also examined using a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation. The CFD model successfully simulates the flow behavior and provides a closer examination of the bubble shape. The bubble length L to the channel width w is a function of the ratio of gas flow rate Qg and liquid flow rate Ql which is the same as that used in the T-junction. Bubble frequency f is found to be related with channel width w, channel depth h, and Ql Qg /(Qg + Ql · π/4). The formulation shows good agreement with the experimental data at the low frequency region. Different bubble shapes can be obtained at different liquid viscosities and surface tensions. The dimensionless bubble length L/w can still be predicted by a modified equation which uses the real bubble width wb or an equivalent bubble length Le .Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Goals, benefits, and outcomes of genetic counseling: Client and genetic counselor assessment

Most studies of outcomes of genetic counseling have focused on client knowledge, reproductive plans and behavior, or satisfaction. Other measures of the “value” of genetic counseling are needed to guide research assessing the impact of genetic counseling on individuals and populations, as well as to improve the process of providing care. To obtain input from providers, we conducted telephone interviews with six experienced genetic counselors, and then we held a focus group with 10 additional genetic counselors from a variety of practice settings. To obtain input from consumers, telephone interviews were also conducted with 19 past clients of these participating counselors. We found that counselor goals focus on meeting clients' needs, usually educating and providing psychosocial support. Clients often had few goals going into a session because they were unaware of what would be discussed or how the session would be structured. They usually did not expect to receive “counseling,” and when they did, it was a welcome surprise. Both clients and counselors commented that a positive interpersonal interaction and “connecting” are primary measures of success. All clients appreciated the large amount of time spent with the counselor, and the manner (clear, comprehensive, and unhurried) of providing information. Many clients said that genetic counseling resulted in improved communication with their partners and other family members. Clients view the counselor as an “expert” and value the counselor as an on-going resource for both information and support. These “outcomes” of genetic counseling need to be assessed, and new measures must be developed. Am. J. Med. Genet. 94:189–197, 2000. © 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Hazard-Based Detection Conditions for Improved Transition Fault Coverage of Scan-Based Tests

We define a new type of detection conditions for delay faults, referred to as hazard-based detection conditions, to enhance the coverage of delay faults using the standard scan test application methods. Some delay faults, including irredundant faults, may be undetectable under the conventional detection conditions. These faults may be detectable under the hazard-based detection conditions. The use of hazard-based detection conditions thus improves the delay fault coverage achievable for a circuit. We consider transition faults under standard scan for the study in this paper.
Preparing Teaching Assistants in Hospitality Management Programs

The need to improve the quality of teaching in our colleges and universities has been well documented in the higher education literature, as well as in the public press. Many recommendations have been made in an attempt to improve the state of higher education. One such recommendation concerns the training of graduate teaching assistants for the classroom experience. Since most graduate programs in hospitality management utilize their graduate students as teaching assistants, this particular area of action will be discussed. A survey was developed to determine the extent to which existing graduate programs in hospitality management depend upon their graduates to teach and the extent to which the students are prepared for their teaching roles. Surveys were mailed to the program heads of all CHRIE member institutions which currently offer graduate degrees. The results of this survey are presented and a general model for training teaching assistants is proposed.
An assessment of relationships among schooling, school performance and delinquency

There seems to be great interest around the world in the increase of juvenile delinquency. Many researchers are debating the reasons for this increase in crime among youths. Some social scientists have argued that schooling will always be good for children, not only academically, but also because it assists them in refraining from criminal or delinquent behavior. This paper examines previous research to determine if schooling and poor school performance, together with peer group influences, are not actually encouraging some students to commit crimes more often. Since all children, in most countries, are forced to attend school until about 16 years of age, this compulsory educational environment may actually breed delinquency. Enhanced understanding of these complex relationships between schooling and delinquency should enable us to develop and implement effective prevention methods, strategies and programs.
Hemodynamic abnormalities across an anomalous left main coronary artery assessment: Evidence for a dynamic ostial obstruction

Anomalous left main coronary arteries have been associated with sudden cardiac death, especially when arising from the right coronary cusp and following an anterior course. To date, imaging procedures have been the mainstay of the decision-making process in determining which patients should undergo surgery for correction of this anomaly and which patients are presumed to be at low risk. We report on the hemodynamic evaluation of an anomalous left main performed in support of elected surgical correction in a young patient.