cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Clock skew scheduling for improved reliability via quadratic programming

This paper considers the problem of determining an optimal clock skew schedule for a synchronous VLSI circuit. A novel formulation of clock skew scheduling as a constrained quadratic programming (QP) problem is introduced. The concept of a permissible range, or a valid interval, for the clock skew of each local data path is key to this QP approach. From a reliability perspective, the ideal clock schedule corresponds to each clock skew within the circuit being at the center of the respective permissible range. However, this ideal clock schedule is nor practically implementable because of limitations imposed by the connectivity among the registers within the circuit. To evaluate the reliability, a quadratic cost function is introduced as the Euclidean distance between the ideal schedule and a given practically feasible clock schedule. This cost function is the minimization objective of the described algorithms for the solution of the previously mentioned quadratic program. Furthermore, the work described here substantially differs from previous research in that it permits complete control over specific clock signal delays or skews within the circuit. Specifically, the algorithms described here can be employed to obtain results with explicitly specified target values of important clock delays/skews with a circuit, such as for example, the clock delays/skews for I/O registers. An additional benefit is a potential reduction in clock period of up to 10%. An efficient mathematical algorithm is derived for the solution of the QP problem with O(r/sup 3/) run time complexity and O(r/sup 2/) storage complexity, where r is the number of registers in the circuit. The algorithm is implemented as a C++ program and demonstrated on the ISCAS'89 suite of benchmark circuits as well as on a number of industrial circuits. The work described here yields additional insights into the correlation between circuit structure and circuit timing by characterizing the degree to which specific signal paths limit the overall performance and reliability of a circuit. This information is directly applicable to logic and architectural synthesis.
Palladium Catalyzed Allylation of Indole

Abstract The palladium catalyzed transfer of allyl groups between active hydrogen compounds is well documented,1 and recent applications of the intramolecular counterpart of this reaction as key steps in the total synthesis of exaltolide2 and desethyli-bogamine3 demonstrate useful synthetic applications of the method. We now wish to report some of our results describing the palladium catalyzed allylation of indole.
A study on the maintenance of the winter subtropical jet streams in the northern hemisphere

Two mechanisms were previously proposed to explain the maintenance of the winter subtropical jet streams in the northern hemisphere. First, based upon the total kinetic energy budget analysis, the winter subtropical jet streams can be locally maintained by the balance between the kinetic energy generated by ageostrophic flow and the divergence of kinetic energy flux. Second, these jet streams can be maintained by the interhemispherical interaction between the atmospheric, rotational and divergent circulations. It is shown in this study that the kinetic energy budget analyses of the rotational and divergent components of the atmospheric circulation can be used to illustrate, respectively, the two aforementioned mechanisms maintaining subtropical jet streams, and also the inter-relationship between these two mechanisms. DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0870.1988.tb00356.x
Thermal degradation of poly(phenylene sulfide) as monitored by pyrolysis—GC/MS

Abstract The thermal degradation of two commercial samples of poly(phenylene sulfide) (PPS) has been studied over a range of pyrolytic temperatures using flash pyrolysis-gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (Py-GC/MS). At the lower pyrolysis temperatures (up to about 550°C) the major volatile pyrolysis products detected were the cyclic tetrameter and the linear trimers and dimers, formed as a result of random scission followed by depolymerization and cyclization. Under more severe pyrolysis conditions (550°–800°C) the concentrations of the oligomers start to decrease and those of benzene and benzenethiol increase. In addition, at these intermediate temperatures of 550–650°C it appears that rearrangement reactions are occurring followed by cyclization to give rise to benzo-thiophenes and some naphtho-thiophenes. The predominant degradation process, however, appears to be random chain scission followed by cyclization at the lower temperatures and depolymerization at the higher temperatures.
The NMDA receptor: central role in pain inhibition in rat periaqueductal gray

An injection of the excitatory amino acid analogue, N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA), in the rat periaqueductal gray resulted in potent analgesia. A prior injection of the NMDA antagonist, (-)-2-amino-7-phosphonoheptanoate (D-AP7), antagonized this action, indicating a receptor-mediated action. NMDA given with morphine potentiated the morphine analgesia while D-AP7 blocked morphine analgesia. These results delineate for the first time a functional role for the NMDA receptor in the control of pain in the mammalian central nervous system.
Spirituality and national culture as antecedents to ethical decision-making: a comparison between the United States and Norway

We investigate the cross-cultural relationships between spirituality and ethical decision-making in Norway and the U.S. Data were collected from business students (n = 149) at state universities in Norway and the U.S. Results indicate that intention to behave ethically was significantly related to spirituality, national culture, and the influence of peers. Americans were significantly less ethical than Norwegians based on the three dimensions of ethics, yet more spiritual overall. Interestingly, the more spiritual were Norwegians, the more ethical was their decision-making. By contrast, the more spiritual were Americans, the less ethical was their decision-making. The research also found that peer influences were more important to Norwegians than to Americans in making ethical decisions. Finally, spiritual people from the U.S. were more likely to use a universalistic form of justice ethics, as opposed to a more particularistic form of justice ethics used by Norwegians.
The efficiency of grating coupling of two thin-film waveguides

We have demonstrated experimentally the coupling between two thin-film waveguides with a sputter-etched grating as the phase-matching element. A maximum coupling efficiency of only 27% has been measured. Using the weak interaction perturbation analysis, we have found that the loss due to the scattering into the substrate modes is a dominator factor responsible for the measured low efficiency.
Structural and functional changes in the cristae ampullares of aged gerbils

Abstract We have reported that calretinin and calbindin staining of calyxes in the apical region of the cristae is reduced or absent in old gerbils (≥35 months) that had normal numbers of hair cells [ Kevetter GA, Leonard RB (2002) Decreased expression of calretinin and calbindin in the labyrinth of old gerbils. Brain Res 957:362–365]. Here we examine the ability of primary afferents in aged gerbils to carry a tracer injected into the vestibular nuclear complex to their terminals in the cristae. Calyxes throughout the cristae were well labeled in a young animal with such an injection. In the aged animals, many calyxes were only partially filled or not filled at all. In some cases labeled axons were also missing from the stroma underlying the missing calyxes. There is a strong correspondence between the region where the calyxes were not filled and the absence of calretinin immunostaining. To determine if afferents from the cristae are functionally abnormal, we recorded from their axons and attempted to activate them with natural stimulation. Among afferents that could be activated, we encountered many afferents that had spontaneous activity but could not be modulated with natural stimulation. When tested, the firing rate of these afferents could be modulated with galvanic stimulation, and/or they could be activated by pulsed electrical stimulation. We also encountered afferents that had no spontaneous activity. The presence of these axons was revealed by an injury discharge that could not be modulated with natural stimulation. When tested, these axons could be activated with pulsed electrical stimulation. In some instances we encountered two or more such afferents in a row, an event we have not seen in young animals. We suggest that the simplest explanation for these observations is that calyxes are being lost in old animals.
The classification of ornamental designs in the United States Patent Classification System

Abstract More than 400,000 industrial designs have been granted statutory protection in the US as design patents since 1844. The system for classifying such design patents for efficient retrieval is a specialized part of the United States Patent Classification (USPC). It is described here under the following headings: purpose, the classification schedule, schedule organization, relationship to utility patent classification, design patent titles, class and subclass definitions, hierarchy, special features, simulative designs, and cross-reference art collections and digests. The paper then considers placement rules for the consistent classification of design patents, the Locarno International Classification, searching for ornamental designs, and aids for such searching. Many specific, illustrative examples of the schedule, and of the placement of and retrieval of design patents for particular articles are provided.
A mechanistic investigation of the three-component radical photoinitiator system Eosin Y spirit soluble, N-methyldiethanolamine, and diphenyliodonium chloride

Photo-DSC and in situ, time-resolved, laser-induced, steady-state fluorescence spectroscopy were used to study the initiation mechanism of the three-component system: Eosin Y spirit soluble (EYss), N-methyldiethanolamine, and diphenyliodonium chloride. Kinetic studies based on photo-DSC revealed that the fastest polymerization occurred when all three components were present (the next fastest was with the dye/amine pair, and the slowest was with the dye/iodonium pair). However, the laser-induced fluorescence experiments showed that the pairwise reaction between the eosin and iodonium bleaches the dye much more rapidly than does the reaction between the eosin and amine. We concluded that although a direct eosin/amine reaction can produce active radicals in the three-component system, this reaction is largely overshadowed by the eosin/iodonium reaction, which does not produce active radicals as effectively. We proposed that the amine reduces the oxidized dye radical formed in the eosin/iodonium reaction back to its original state as well as the simultaneous production of an active initiating amine-based radical. Because of the difference in the pairwise reaction rates for eosin/amine and eosin/iodonium, it is likely that this regeneration reaction was the primary source of active radicals in the three-component eosin/amine/iodonium system. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Polym Sci A: Polym Chem 39: 715–723, 2001
A review of the scientific and literary accomplishments of Professor R.G. Macfarlane CBE, FRS

This article gives an account of some of the pioneer work of Professor R.G. Macfarlane CBE, FRS in haemostasis and fibrinolysis. His Cascade hypothesis, which together with the Waterfall, became the most cited of all papers on blood coagulation in the latter part of the 20th century, is described, together with its rebuttal and defence. Macfarlane had the gift of writing in elegant prose and his papers on the philosophy of science and his biographies of Lord Florey and Fleming are reviewed. The biography of Sir Alexander Fleming is a great work that deserves to be on the shelves of every library.
Two – photon excited fluorescence lifetime measurements through a double-clad photonic crystal fiber for tissue micro – endoscopy

This paper presents an endoscopic configuration for measurements of tissue autofluorescence using two-photon excitation and time-correlated single photon counting detection through a double-clad photonic crystal fiber (DC-PCF) without pre-chirping of laser pulses. The instrument performance was evaluated by measurements of fluorescent standard dyes, biological fluorophores (collagen and elastin), and tissue specimens (muscle, cartilage, tendon). Current results demonstrate the ability of this system to accurately retrieve the fluorescence decay profile and lifetime of these samples. This simple setup, which offers larger penetration depth than one-photon-based techniques, may be combined with morphology-yielding techniques such as photoacoustic and ultrasound imaging.
Iddt Test Calibration using a Programmable Processing Array

This paper proposes an area efficient signal processing architecture to perform IDDT test calibration through vector multiplication. The design follows the Field Programmable Array organization, and capitalizes on the unique behavior of binary encoded signals to implement compact multiply elements. Vectors with 8 bit values were multiplied at a rate of 300 kHz, independently of vector size.
On parallelizability of stochastic gradient descent for speech DNNS

This paper compares the theoretical efficiency of model-parallel and data-parallel distributed stochastic gradient descent training of DNNs. For a typical Switchboard DNN with 46M parameters, the results are not pretty: With modern GPUs and interconnects, model parallelism is optimal with only 3 GPUs in a single server, while data parallelism with a minibatch size of 1024 does not even scale to 2 GPUs. We further show that data-parallel training efficiency can be improved by increasing the minibatch size (through a combination of AdaGrad and automatic adjustments of learning rate and minibatch size) and data compression. We arrive at an estimated possible end-to-end speed-up of 5 times or more. We do not address issues of robustness to process failure or other issues that might occur during training, nor of speed of convergence differences between ASGD and SGD parameter update patterns.
Observational Determination of Cloud Mass Flux Distributions

Abstract Using Arakawa's spectral representation of cumulus convection, the cloud mass flux distributions and other cloud properties are diagnostically determined from large-scale observations. Observational data over the tropical Atlantic Ocean during the BOMEX Phase 3 (22–30 June 1969) are used. The analyzed period is subdivided into three parts according to different synoptic situations. The cloud properties and the manner of interaction between large-scale fields and cumulus convection under the different situations are examined. During the period in which a strong trade inversion lies near 800 mb, most clouds detrain below the trade inversion and cloud mass flux is confined below this level. The large apparent heat sink and apparent moisture source found near the inversion base are mainly due to the cooling and moistening effects of the detrainment from clouds. During the period affected by an upper-level extended trough, the trade inversion is weakened and some clouds penetrate through the 800-mb le...
The symptomatology and diagnosis of Gilles de la Tourette's syndrome.

The focus of this paper is the symptomatology and diagnosis of Gilles de la Tourette's syndrome, the result of a study of the data collected on 34 patients, including detailed psychiatric, psychological, neurological, electroencephalographic, demographic, and treatment evaluation. Based on our experience with these patients and a review of the literature, we concluded that the diagnosis of Gilles de la Tourette's syndrome is difficult to make. In this paper, therefore, we propose: (1) to evaluate the symptomatology and establish minimal criteria for the diagnosis of this syndrome; and (2) to review the data collected, comparing them with the findings of other investigators.
aPKC Phosphorylates Miranda to Polarize Fate Determinants during Neuroblast Asymmetric Cell Division

Summary Background Asymmetric cell divisions generate daughter cells with distinct fates by polarizing fate determinants into separate cortical domains. Atypical protein kinase C (aPKC) is an evolutionarily conserved regulator of cell polarity. In Drosophila neuroblasts, apically restricted aPKC is required for segregation of neuronal differentiation factors such as Numb and Miranda to the basal cortical domain. Whereas Numb is polarized by direct aPKC phosphorylation, Miranda asymmetry is thought to occur via a complicated cascade of repressive interactions (aPKC −| Lgl −| myosin II −| Miranda). Results Here we provide biochemical, cellular, and genetic data showing that aPKC directly phosphorylates Miranda to exclude it from the cortex and that Lgl antagonizes this activity. Miranda is phosphorylated by aPKC at several sites in its cortical localization domain and phosphorylation is necessary and sufficient for cortical displacement, suggesting that the repressive-cascade model is incorrect. In investigating key results that led to this model, we found that Y-27632, a Rho kinase inhibitor used to implicate myosin II, efficiently inhibits aPKC. Lgl3A, a nonphosphorylatable Lgl variant used to implicate Lgl in this process, inhibits the formation of apical aPKC crescents in neuroblasts. Furthermore, Lgl directly inhibits aPKC kinase activity. Conclusions Miranda polarization during neuroblast asymmetric cell division occurs by displacement from the apical cortex by direct aPKC phosphorylation. Rather than mediating Miranda cortical displacement, Lgl instead promotes aPKC asymmetry by regulating its activity. The role of myosin II in neuroblast polarization, if any, is unknown.
Monotone percolation and the topology control of wireless networks

This paper addresses the topology control problem for large wireless networks that are modelled by an infinite point process on a two-dimensional plane. Topology control is the process of determining the edges in the network by adjusting the transmission radii of the nodes. Topology control algorithms should be based on local decisions, be adaptive to changes, guarantee full connectivity and support efficient routing. We present a family of topology control algorithms that, respectively, achieve some or all of these requirements efficiently. The key idea in our algorithms is a concept that we call monotone percolation. In classical percolation theory, we are interested in the emergence of an infinitely large connected component. In contrast, in monotone percolation we are interested in the existence of a relatively short path that makes monotonic progress between any pair of source and destination nodes. Our key contribution is that we demonstrate how local decisions on the transmission radii can lead to monotone percolation and in turn to efficient topology control algorithms.
Provocation of pseudoseizures by psychiatric interview during EEG and video monitoring.

Objective: This paper discusses a new technique for diagnosing pseudoseizures. The technique consists of an intensive psychiatric interview designed to provoke a pseudoseizure during EEG and video monitoring. We wished to determine the overall efficacy of the technique and learn how our patients felt about having undergone the procedure. We were also interested in whether their seizures persisted approximately three years later. Method: We reviewed medical records and conducted telephone interviews with thirty of thirty-two patients who had previously undergone the procedure as part of an evaluation for unusual or intractable seizures. All evaluations had been performed on a university hospital neurology service. The patients were consecutive referrals to the consultative psychiatry service for suspicion of pseudoseizures. Results: Nineteen of the thirty-two patients interviewed had a pseudoseizure under EEG and video monitoring. Of the thirty reached by telephone for follow-up, twenty-two recalled the procedure as helpful or benign. None regarded the overall psychiatric consultation negatively. Among the patients who had exhibited pseudoseizures there was a variety of psychiatric diagnoses with a preponderance of personality disorders. Two thirds of those patients without coexisting epilepsy stopped having seizures or rarely had seizures following their evaluations. Conclusions: The diagnostic technique described here is useful in patients with possible pseudoseizures.
Benjamin Joseph, Selvadurai Nayagam, Randall T. Loder, Ian Trode: Paediatric orthopaedics: a system of decision-making

This is a very salutary book, a major work which will become a very valuable tool for every orthopaedic trainee and young orthopaedic surgeon, as it is meant to encourage decision-making in clinical practice. It emphasizes clinical judgment over surgical technique, which is of utmost importance in pediatric orthopaedics. Conceived by a forum of renowned international authors, this 527-page book is a framework of reference for clinical decision-making and is comprised of eight major sections according to clinical conditions: Deformities, Dislocations, Deficiencies, Discrepancies of limb length, Decreased joint mobility, Paralyses, Epiphyseal and physeal problems, and Infections. These are easily approachable chapters and subchapters, and the subdivisions are cleverly designed so as to cover all clinical aspects, leading the reader through diagnosis, symptoms, indications and treatment options, with clear illustrations for easy identification, through differential diagnosis, and then to management, be it conservative or surgical, with recommendations and expected outcome. The material is punctuated with quotations from specialty literature for easy reference, and the information is within immediate reach, whereas the attractive graphic presentation in simple schemas and tables and the friendly colors catch the eye and make it focus on the essential, facilitating immediate comprehension. This is a very comprehensive, concise book, not to be missed by any resident in orthopaedics preparing for the final orthopaedic board examination or equivalence, by trainees during pediatric orthopaedic rotation, or by any medical students in any other instructional program. The authors were able to provide the young orthopaedic surgeon with a very practical book, conferring a modern approach to the traditional philosophy of pediatric orthopaedics.
Amnionitis and life-threatening respiratory distress after percutaneous umbilical blood sampling.

Summary Although amnionitis secondary to percutaneous umbilical blood sampling is extremely uncommon, a high index of suspicion should be maintained and a full evaluation should be initiated if nonspecific signs of infection appear within 2 weeks after the procedure is performed. In this case life-threatening adult respiratory distress syndrome was a sequela of this complication. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 1989;160:427-8.)
Test circuits for verification of power device models

One of the most important components of any modern power converter topology is the power semiconductor device. To predict the behavior of high-power devices in complex circuits it is necessary to accurately characterize them. Because of the cost involved in building complex circuits, it is often necessary to carry out extensive simulations to understand the device behavior under various operating conditions imposed by the particular circuit topology. For accurate simulations, it is necessary to develop good and accurate device models using advanced device simulation tools. The device models are generally developed using static and some switching measurement data. To verify the accuracy of these models, the simulation data must be compared with the measured data under different operating conditions. Test circuits used to carry out such simulations and measurements must satisfy a number of criteria such as robustness, accuracy, cost efficiency and repeatability. In addition, they should be easy to simulate accurately. This paper presents some simple and accurate test circuits used for the verification of various power device models.
An analog VLSI edge detection chip and digital multiprocessor chip for neural-based vision processing

A mixed-signal VLSI design for early vision processing, which includes an analog edge detection chip with embedded array photosensors and a digital multiprocessor chip, is described. The system architecture overview shows that the combination of the analog chip and the digital processors can perform highly efficient processing in neural-based vision processing. The analog edge detection chip consisting of 258*258 photosensor cells can be implemented in an area of 13.5 mm*15.5 mm using the MOSIS 0.8- mu m CMOS technology. The digital multiprocessor chip, which includes 64 processing elements, can be implemented in a 15.0-mm*18.0-mm chip using an industrial-scale 0.5- mu m CMOS technology. A system implementation for fingerprint verification is presented as an example of possible applications. >
Batch-size-based rearrangement of the shop floor into mini-lines

We study the allocation of machines in a job shop environment to groups of jobs so as to obtain a collection of disjoint production lines minimising the overall cycle time. Jobs are often grouped according to similarities based on functionality or production process, but in some settings it makes more sense to group jobs according to batch size to exploit differences in setup and run times among technologies and machine types. We formulate a model to find an optimal group partition of jobs and an optimal assignment of machines to groups. We show that the problem is hard and formulate a heuristic based on genetic algorithms to find approximate solutions.
3D, 9C seismic modeling and inversion of Weyburn Field data

ABSTRACTInversion of 3D, 9C wide azimuth vertical seismic profiling (VSP) data from the Weyburn Field for 21 independent elastic tensor elements was performed based on the Christoffel equation, using slowness and polarization vectors measured from field data. To check the ability of the resulting elastic tensor to account for the observed data, simulation of the 3C particle velocity seismograms was done using eighth-order, staggered-grid, finite-differencing with the elastic tensor as input. The inversion and forward modeling results were consistent with the anisotropic symmetry of the Weyburn Field being orthorhombic. It was dominated by a very strong, tranverse isotropy with a vertical symmetry axis, superimposed with minor near-vertical fractures with azimuth ∼55° from the inline direction. The predicted synthetic seismograms were very similar to the field VSP data. The examples defined and provided a validation of a complete workflow to recover an elastic tensor from 9C data. The number and values of ...
Studies on lipid membranes by two-dimensional Fourier transform ESR: Enhancement of resolution to ordering and dynamics

The first two-dimensional Fourier-transform electron spin resonance (2D-FT-ESR) studies of nitroxide-labeled lipids in membrane vesicles are reported. The considerable enhancement this experiment provides for extracting rotational and translational diffusion rates, as well as orientational ordering parameters by means of ESR spectroscopy, is demonstrated. The 2D spectral analysis is achieved using theoretical simulations that are fit to experiments by an efficient and automated nonlinear least squares approach. These methods are applied to dispersions of 1-palmitoyl-2oleoyl-sn-glycerophosphatidylcholine (POPC) model membranes utilizing spin labels 1-palmitoyl-2-(16-doxyl stearoyl) phosphatidylcholine and the 3-doxyl derivative of cholestan-3-one (CSL). Generally favorable agreement is obtained between the results obtained by 2D-FT-ESR on vesicles with the previous results on similar systems studied by continuous wave (cw) ESR on aligned samples. The precision in determining the dynamic and ordering parameters is significantly better for 2D-FT-ESR, even though the cw ESR spectra from membrane vesicles are resolved more poorly than those from well aligned samples. Some small differences in results by the two methods are discussed in terms of limitations of the methods and/or theoretical models, as well as possible differences between dynamic molecular structure in vesicles versus aligned membranes. An interesting observation with CSL/POPC, that the apparent homogeneous linewidths seem to increase in "real time," is tentatively attributed to the effects of slow director fluctuations in the membrane vesicles.
A new genus and new species of the tribe Dinocampini from Napo Province in Ecuador (Hymenoptera: Braconidae: Euphorinae)

A new genus and a new species of the parasitoid wasp, Napo townsendi (Hymenoptera: Braconidae: Euphorinae: Dinocampini), is described from the Yanayacu Biological Station in Napo Province, Ecuador. The new genus and species is diagnosed and compared with the most closely related genus Betelgeuse Shaw and other Dinocampini. While first discovered by yellow bowl and Malaise trapping, it has more recently been discovered that males of N. townsendi can be found preferentially perching on the leaves of seedlings of the asteraceous tree Dendrophorbium lloense (Hieron) C. Jeffrey.
Stationary gas turbines - a real time dynamic model with experimental validation

Gas turbines represent an important source of electrical power generation and aerospace/marine propulsion around the world. To ensure the dependability of these complex multi-domain systems, a health monitoring system can be attached to the controller in a parallel manner. One important element of an advanced diagnostic strategy is the real time mathematical model that describes the normal system behavior. In this paper, a nonlinear dynamic model will be presented for a stationary gas turbine. The model simulates the transient and steady state gas turbine's nominal operating conditions. This model serves as the basis of an advanced diagnostic strategy to evaluate a stationary gas turbine's overall operation. To validate the model, experimental data has been obtained from a Solar Mercury 50 stationary gas turbine located at Clemson University. Comparisons between the field data and simulation results demonstrate a high degree of correspondence. The model represents a key contribution to the field of real-time stationary gas turbine health management systems.
Molarity Versus Modularity of Cognitive Functioning? A Behavioral Genetic Perspective

What is it that allows people to describe the meaning of a word, solve an analogy, complete a logic puzzle, or recall memories? His torically, cognitive and neuropsy chological researchers have sought to delineate the normative, species invariant dimensions of cognitive functioning that enable people to solve these diverse cognitive prob lems. Describing the relationship and developmental course of these processes has been a major theoret ical focus of the cognitive litera ture. Are cognitive processes re lated, or are they distinct from one another? How do they develop? These issues are addressed by the continuing molarity-versus modularity debate. A molar system is one in which a unitary, general process functions across a wide va riety of cognitive tasks. A modular system involves numerous distinct cognitive processing units, each re sponsible for certain nonoverlap ping cognitive tasks. Currently, modularity is the dominant theory in developmental cognitive psychology and neuro science (Karmiloff-Smith, 1992). According to this theory, cognitive processes are molar at birth and differentiate into distinct modular units as development proceeds. I Typically, evidence for modularity is demonstrated by showing that functioning in one domain is unaf fected by damage in another do main. For example, William's syn drome, an extremely rare genetic disorder (1 in 25,000 births), results in decreased spatial functioning but leaves verbal abilities unaf fected, and in some cases, enhanced. Environmental damage (e.g., from prenatal trauma, head injury, and strokes) has also been shown to se lectively damage certain cognitive processes, but not others. These studies demonstrate
The Columbia University microbeam II endstation for cell imaging and irradiation

The Columbia University Microbeam II has been built to provide a focused ion beam for irradiating designated mammalian cells with single particles. With the interest in irradiating non-stained cells and cells in three-dimensional tissue samples, the endstation was designed to accommodate a variety of imaging techniques, in addition to fluorescent microscopy. Non-stained cells are imaged either by quantitative phase microscopy (QPm) [IATIA, Box Hill North, Victoria, 3129, Australia [1]] or by Mirau interferometry. In conjunction with the focused microbeam, a proposed multiphoton microscope will offer the opportunity to probe live cells at selected depths in tissue samples; dynamic events in such tissue samples are more representative of biological system response than those in cell cultures.
Dysfunction and safety factor strength-duration curves for biphasic defibrillator waveforms.

Newly developed biphasic waveforms significantly lower defibrillation threshold in animal and clinical models. However, underlying mechanisms and optimum waveform shape are unknown. Defibrillation shocks produce dysfunction; safety factor, the ratio of shock intensity inducing dysfunction to that producing stimulation of partially refractory cells, is an important parameter for defibrillator waveforms. We determined dysfunction and safety factor strength-duration curves for symmetric and asymmetric (50% undershoot) monophasic and biphasic rectangular (0%-tilt) waveforms. Dysfunction threshold, defined as the voltage producing a 4-s postshock contractile arrest, was determined for waveforms with total durations from 1 to 40 ms. For all waveforms, dysfunction threshold decreased with waveform duration. At all durations, dysfunction threshold was similar for symmetric monophasic and biphasic waveforms with the same total duration. In contrast, asymmetric biphasic waveforms increased dysfunction threshold 14 ...
Membrane filtration of wastewater effluents for reuse: effluent organic matter rejection and fouling

The reuse of treated wastewater to augment natural drinking water supplies is receiving serious consideration. Treatment of secondary and tertiary effluent by membrane filtration was investigated by assessing nanofiltration (NF) membrane and ultrafiltration (UF) membranes in bench-scale experiments. It was found that secondary and tertiary effluent contained high concentration of effluent organic matter (EfOM), contributing EfOM-related fouling. Flux decline and EfOM rejection tests were evaluated, using a dead-end stirred cell filtration unit. Surface charge and molecular weight cut-off (MWCO) of membranes were significant factors in membrane performance including permeability and EfOM-rejection.
National network television news coverage of contraception - a content analysis.

Abstract Objective The objective was to describe and analyze national network television news framing of contraception, recognizing that onscreen news can influence the public's knowledge and beliefs. Study design We used the Vanderbilt Television News Archives and LexisNexis Database to obtain video and print transcripts of all relevant national network television news segments covering contraception from January 2010 to June 2014. We conducted a content analysis of 116 TV news segments covering contraception during the rollout of the Affordable Care Act. Segments were quantitatively coded for contraceptive methods covered, story sources used, and inclusion of medical and nonmedical content (intercoder reliability using Krippendorf's alpha ranged 0.6–1 for coded categories). Results Most (55%) news stories focused on contraception in general rather than specific methods. The most effective contraceptive methods were rarely discussed (implant, 1%; intrauterine device, 4%). The most frequently used sources were political figures (40%), advocates (25%), the general public (25%) and Catholic Church leaders (16%); medical professionals (11%) and health researchers (4%) appeared in a minority of stories. A minority of stories (31%) featured medical content. Conclusions National network news coverage of contraception frequently focuses on contraception in political and social terms and uses nonmedical figures such as politicians and church leaders as sources. This focus deemphasizes the public health aspect of contraception, leading medical professionals and health content to be rarely featured. Implications Media coverage of contraception may influence patients' views about contraception. Understanding the content, sources and medical accuracy of current media portrayals of contraception may enable health care professionals to dispel popular misperceptions.
Automated preparation of gallium-68 DOTATOC for imaging neuroendocrine tumor patients at the University of Iowa: Initial experiences

1663 Objectives Gallium-68 (Ga-68) somatostatin analogs are the gold standard for PET imaging of neuroendocrine tumors, yet have not been embraced in the United States. In this presentation, an automated system for preparation of [Ga-68]DOTATOC was evaluated prior to patient studies at the University of Iowa. Methods The automated system (PharmTracer, Eckert-Ziegler, Berlin, Germany) combines a titanium-dioxide based germanium-68/Ga-68 generator with a computer-controlled system that employs complete, single-use, sterile, GMP-grade, cassettes. In this study, 1.85 GBq Ga-68 was eluted (6 mL 0.1 M hydrochloric acid, HCl) to an in-line cation exchange resin, which retains Ga-68. Purified Ga-68 is eluted with 98% acetone/0.02 M HCl to a glass reaction vessel containing 30 μg DOTATOC (in acetate, pH 4). Radiolabeling is carried out at 95○C for 6 min. Acetone is removed by vent to waste. [Ga-68]DOTATOC is then transferred to an in-line C-18 cartridge. Free Ga-68 is removed by saline rinse and pure [Ga-68]DOTATOC is eluted in 1:1 95% ethanol:water to the product vial through a sterilizing filter (and diluted with saline). QC parameters were measured by standard techniques. Results Sterile, pyrogen-free [Ga-68]DOTATOC was prepared in 32 min. QC metrics were acceptable: specific activity 35±2 MBq nmole-1, radiochemical purity >98%; pH 6.5; acetone and pyrogen levels within limits. Conclusions The automated PharmTracer system can be used for rapid, [Ga-68]DOTATOC preparations with minimal hand dose. Quality control parameters were within acceptable limits for patient studies. The system and integrated software can be adapted for training of personnel and daily operations. Research Support The Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Department of Radiology, and Dance Marathon
Dual-Processing Perspectives

Dual-process theories propose that human behavior (including communication) is the combined result of two qualitatively different processing mechanisms, one relatively fast, automatic, and associative, and the other relatively slow, controlled, and rule-based. The dual-processing perspective has had an overwhelming impact in the fields of cognitive and social psychology and neuroscience, and it has had equally important influence in the study of human communication. This entry traces the development of dual-process theories from their domain specific beginnings in reasoning and persuasion, to the current search for a generalized dual-systems model. Additionally, this entry discusses examples of how the dual-processing perspective has diffused to communication specific literatures beyond persuasion, such as supportive communication and message production. Keywords: cognitive processes; communication theory; interpersonal communication
GOOD VIBRATIONS : A MEMBRANE'S PROPERTIES CAN NOW BE OBTAINED BY ANALYZINGNODES : PLACES WHERE THE SYSTEM IS AT REST WHEN VIBRATED AT A NATURAL FREQU ENCY

As I was scraping a brass plate with a sharp iron chisel in order to re move some spots from it and was running the chisel rather rapidly over it, I once or twice, during many strokes, heard the plate emit a rather strong and clear whistling sound: on looking at the plate more carefully, I noticed a long row of fine streaks parallel and equidistant from one another. Scraping with the chisel over and over again, I noticed that it was only when the plate emitted this hissing noise that any marks were left upon it; when the scraping was not accompanied by this sibilant note there was not the least trace of such marks.
PAAT and RVET versus RVSP to predict pulmonary hypertension

Background: Previously, we reported that pulmonary artery acceleration time (PAAT) and right ventricular ejection time (RVET) on echo are altered in patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH), and these changes remain consistent in patients with and without estimable right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP). Purpose: To identify alternative echo parameters to predict PH Methods: Adults with echo and right heart cath (RHC) within one week. We recorded pulmonary artery acceleration time (PAAT), RV ejection time (RVET), and max velocity (Vmax) from the velocity time integral obtained by placing pulsed-wave Doppler sample volume in the proximal right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) from the parasternal short-axis view. We performed logistic regression to predict PH (mPAP≥25mmHg on RHC) using RVSP alone versus Vmax with PAAT/RVET corrected for heart rate (HR) and compared area under the receiver operator curve (AU-ROC). Results: Of the 30 patients with data, 25 (83%) had PH. Six patients (20%) did not have an estimable RVSP. A combination of HR, Vmax, and PAAT/RVET predicted PH on RHC better than RVSP alone (AU-ROC 0.94 vs 0.75) in the 24 patients with RVSP; when using all 30 patients, the AU-ROC for HR, Vmax, and PAAT/RVET did not change. A RVSP cutoff of 35 mm Hg resulted in 95% sensitivity and 33% specificity; the optimum cutoff for the alternate model resulted in 96% sensitivity and 40% specificity. Conclusion: A predictive model using HR, PAAT/RVET and Vmax measured at RVOT predicted PH on RHC as effectively as RVSP alone, with similar performance characteristics at optimum cutoff. In the 15-25% of patients without an estimable RVSP, the combination of alternate parameters can be used to screen accurately for PH.
Cultures of Diversity: Considering Scientific and Humanistic Understandings in Introductory Psychology.

Teachers of psychology tend to agree that learning about diversity is an important goal for undergraduate psychology courses. There is significantly less agreement about what aspects of diversity p...
Asymptotic Performance Analysis of Multiuser Diversity in Free Space Optical Communication Systems

We analyze the asymptotic average throughput of a multiuser diversity (MD) scheme, in the limit of large number of users, for free space optical (FSO) communication systems over a gamma-gamma fading channel. It is assumed that the FSO system consists of an optical transmitter (central node) equipped with K transmit apertures to serve K users (one transmit aperture for each user). It is also assumed that each user is equipped with N receive apertures and equal gain combining (EGC) is employed at the user's receiver. In MD, the central node serves only one user which has the largest channel gain among the K users, while other users remain silent. Using extreme value theory (EVT), we derive a simple and tight upper bound on the asymptotic average throughput of the considered FSO system. Moreover, the asymptotic average bit error rate (BER) is investigated and a closed form approximation for the average BER of the FSO system with MD#x002F;EGC scheme is obtained.
Who benefits from radiotherapy for gastric cancer? A meta-analysis.

4093 Background: Randomized trials have demonstrated significant survival benefits with the use of adjuvant (including neoadjuvant) chemotherapy or chemoradiotherapy for gastric cancer. The importa...
CdS aerogels as efficient photocatalysts for degradation of organic dyes under visible light irradiation

Synthesis of efficient photocatalysts based on CdS nanomaterials for oxidative decomposition of organic effluents typically focuses on (a) enhancement of surface area of the catalysts and (b) promotion of the separation of photogenerated electron-hole pairs. CdS aerogel, which are synthesized by simple sol-gel assembly of discrete nanocrystals (NCs) into a porous network followed by supercritical drying, could provide higher surface area for photocatalytic reactions along with facile charge separation due to direct contact between NCs via covalent bonding. We evaluated the efficiency of CdS aerogel materials for degradation of organic dyes using methylene blue (MB) and methyl orange (MO) as test cases. CdS aerogel materials exhibited remarkable photocatalytic activity for dye degradation compared to typical, ligand-capped CdS NCs. The catalytic efficiency of CdS aerogels was further improved by decreasing the chain-length and extent of surface organics, leading to higher, and more hydrophilic, accessible surface area. The use of porous, chalcogenide-based solid state architectures for photocatalysis enables easy separation of catalyst while ensuring a high-interfacial surface area for analyte reactivity and visible light activation.
Atrial fibrillation and hyperthyroidism: A literature review.

Abstract Atrial fibrillation is the most common arrhythmia worldwide with increasing frequency noted with age. Hyperthyroidism is a well-known cause of atrial fibrillation with a 16%–60% prevalence of atrial fibrillation in patients with known hyperthyroidism Ross et al. (2016). While hyperthyroidism as a causative factor of atrial fibrillation is well established, this literature review aims to answer several questions on this topic including: 1. The relationship of atrial fibrillation to hyperthyroidism 2. Atrial fibrillation as a predictor of hyperthyroidism 3. The pathophysiology of thyrotoxic atrial fibrillation 4. Subclinical hyperthyroidism and the relationship with atrial fibrillation 5. Cardioversion and Catheter ablation of hyperthyroid patients with atrial fibrillation 6. Thrombotic risk of hyperthyroid patients with atrial fibrillation 7. Management of Thyrotoxic Atrial fibrillation 8. Pharmacological rhythm control in patients with hyperthyroidism and atrial fibrillation 9. Treatment of Hyperthyroidism to prevent atrial fibrillation 10. Clinical Implications of Hyperthyroidism and Atrial Fibrillation
Workforce Education and Technical Change Bias in U.S. Agriculture and Related Industries

The number of hours devoted to value added output in the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) sector “Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing, and Hunting” is increasingly supplied by individuals with advanced schooling. Consistent with hypotheses of a positive relationship among technology development, adoption, and dissemination and a more highly-skilled workforce, we first test and then conclude that the composition of the workforce is closely aligned with measures of the state of technology. Consistent with many other studies, technical change has been labor-saving overall, yet technologies adopted have reduced both the absolute and relative numbers of workers not progressing beyond high school. The changing composition of the workforce and technical change have driven an average wedge of 31% between reported wages and wages augmented by our estimates of the state of technology. This gap was greater in the period prior to the mid 1980s, when many of the changes in the education levels of the labor force occurred. Using estimates from the entire 1947–2010 period, the quantity of work provided by the worker hired in 2010 was 31% greater than if no change in labor composition had occurred.