cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
High yield of synchronous lesions in referred patients with large lateral spreading colorectal tumors.

Background and Aims There are few data on the prevalence of synchronous colorectal lesions in patients who have large lateral spreading tumors (LLSTs). We sought to describe the rate of synchronous lesions found in patients who underwent endoscopic resection of large sessile adenomas and serrated lesions. Methods This is a retrospective assessment of a prospectively created database of 728 consecutive patients with resected LLSTs who underwent complete clearing of the colon during 2 colonoscopies by a single expert endoscopist. Results The 728 patients with resected LLSTs and complete clearing had 4578 synchronous lesions, including 584 patients (80.2%) with at least 1 synchronous conventional adenoma, 132 (18.1%) with at least 1 synchronous conventional adenoma ≥ 20 mm in size, 294 (40.4%) with at least 1 synchronous advanced conventional adenoma, and 6 patients with a synchronous lesion with cancer. Patients with an index large sessile conventional adenoma compared with those with an index large serrated lesion had on average more synchronous conventional adenomas (4.8 vs 2.9, P = .001) and fewer synchronous serrated lesions (1.4 vs 4.5, P Conclusions There is a very high prevalence of synchronous lesions, including other large and advanced synchronous lesions, in patients with flat or sessile conventional adenomas and serrated colorectal polyps. Patients with LLSTs in the colon need detailed clearing of the rest of the colon. Patients referred for endoscopic resection of serrated lesions ≥ 20 mm have a very high prevalence of serrated polyposis. This study has potential implications for further stratification of high-risk patient groups in postpolypectomy surveillance guidelines.
On ideal dynamic climbing ropes

We consider the rope climber fall problem in two different settings. The simplest formulation of the problem is when the climber falls from a given altitude and is attached to one end of the rope w...
Contact force and damage evolution in a moving uniaxial ice bar

In order to investigate ice forces on offshore structures, the impact of a semi-infinite moving ice bar is considered. Based on typical observations of ice-structure impact, a continuous damage mechanics approach for ice property descriptions is adopted for the theoretical simulation of the ice-structure interaction. The method of characteristics is applied to solve the wave propagation problem with the evolution of continuum damage. The numerical results, using representative published ice properties, show some interesting aspects of the initial stages of the ice-structure interaction process. The results serve as an initial attempt to put ice load predictions, including damage evolution on a solid theoretical basis.
Glutamine, heat shock protein, and inflammation - opportunity from the midst of difficulty

No Abstract Available South African Journal of Clinical Nutrition Vol.17(3) 2004: 84-86
Chapter 10 – DSP System Design: Dual-Tone Multi-Frequency (DTMF) Signaling

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses Dual-Tone Multi-Frequency (DTMF) signaling digital signal processing (DSP) system, which is designed using LabVIEW. DTMF signaling is used extensively in voice communication applications such as voice mail and telephone banking. A DTMF signal is made up of two tones selected from a low and a high tone group. Each pair of tones contains one frequency from the low group and one frequency from the high group. The implementation of the DTMF receiver system is done using the Goertzel algorithm. In terms of the number of operations and amount of memory usage, Goertzel algorithm is much more efficient than the fast Fourier transform (FFT) algorithm for DTMF detection. In addition, this algorithm does not require access to the entire data frame thus leading to faster execution. Each Goertzel filter detects a DTMF tone. The output from each filter is then squared and fed into a threshold detector, where the strongest signals from the low and high frequency groups are selected to identify a pressed digit on the keypad.
Innovations in News Media: Crisis Classification System

Research in crisis management is a relatively new area of study, originating in the 1980s. Researchers have created several different models that separate organizational crises into discrete stages, such as pre-crisis, crisis and post-crisis. In this article we discuss a natural language based crisis detection system which classifies news articles relating to crises into the appropriate crisis stage. We use news articles from the New York Times as a source of training data, and use this data along with state of the art data mining and machine learning algorithms as the core of the system. In the future, our system may be expanded to identify and evaluate crisis management strategies, suggest crisis management strategies for the current state of a crisis, or provide stakeholders with summaries of crises in news media.
Mass Densities of KBOs and Centaurs from Spitzer Observations

The dynamical and physical properties of the Small Solar System Bodies in the outer Solar system, Centaurs and Kuiper Belt objects (KBOs), contain important clues on the formation and evolution of the early Solar System. The only practical way to study their internal properties, such as chemical composition and macroporosity, is to measure their mass density. We report the size and optical albedo of seven binaries (and constraints on more), based on observations with MIPS onboard the Spitzer Space Telescope. The masses we use are obtained from multi-epoch high-resolution optical imaging with HST, which give the orbital period and semimajor axis - the mass then follows from Newton's parametrization of Kepler's third law. Most of our MIPS data have been discussed in the past few years, using different versions of the MIPS data reduction and calibration pipeline, and different thermal models to derive diameters. We here present a complete re-analysis of the data, taking the most up-to-date knowledge about MIPS into account and using the same thermal model throughout. Where available, updates on HST-derived masses are also accounted for. Resulting densities are highly diverse, with some implying significant voids in the interior and others indicating the presence of heavier materials than water ice, e.g. silicates.
Existence and Uniqueness of Solutions for a Class of p-Laplace Equations on a Ball

For a class of equations generalizing the model case \[ \Delta _p u-a(r)u^{p-1}+b(r)u^q=0 \; \; \mbox{in $B$}, \; \; u=0 \; \; \mbox{on $\partial B$}, \] where $B$ is the unit ball in $R^n$, $n \geq 1$, $r=|x|$, $p,q>1$, and $\Delta _p$ denotes the $p$-Laplace operator, we give conditions for the existence and uniqueness of positive solution. In case $n=1$, we give a more general result.
A Study of Hydrodynamic Characteristics of Boundary Layer With Algae Roughness

Filamentous algae fouling, such as Enteromorpha clathrata, is a soft and hairylike roughness that sometimes grows even thicker than a normal boundary layer. Typically, such fouling has been treated as traditional roughness functions to yield hydrodynamic characteristics. This technique has been successfully used for a thin fouling layer. However, it may not be applicable on a thicker layer, as the present study found substantial fluid flow within the layer. For such cases, the roughness cannot be treated simply as a passive geometric variable, but its kinematics and interactions with the flow must be considered. The inner law (log law) dynamics may be abnormal to yield any meaningful roughness function if it is calculated in the traditional way as the departure of a rough-wall log law profile over a smooth-wall log law profile. In the present research, velocity measurement of the E. clathrata roughness boundary layer using pitot-static tube and laser Doppler velocimeter (LDV) were compared. Large discrepancies in the velocity profiles within and in the vicinity of the roughness layer were observed between the two methods. The pitot-static tube data showed significantly high velocities (60% to 80% of the free stream) in the inner layer as compared to a smooth wall boundary layer. This local increase in velocity is believed to be the result of elastic transfer of free-stream energy to the near-wall motions by the E. clathrata filaments. Consequently, the usual assumption of the normal pressure gradient as a negligible second-order term for a normal zero-pressure gradient boundary layer may not be valid for the present kind of roughness . The LDV velocity measurements near and within the roughness layer have large uncertainties due to interference of the probe volume by the E. clathrata filaments. Above the roughness, the pitot-static tube and LDV profiles show relatively good agreement. It is concluded that for accurate prediction of the wall shear stress with E. clathrata-type of bio-fouling roughness, the Clauser velocity loss function should include a form drag factor instead of only the viscous drag factor.
Estimation of relative risk aversion across time

ABSTRACTThis article examines relative risk aversion in the framework of a three-moment asset pricing model that accounts for skewness. Accounting for skewness in calculating risk aversion gives a more accurate series of estimates of risk aversion and helps to reconcile the wide disparity in risk coefficients found in past literature. Risk aversion coefficients are calculated from 1926 to 2014 using stock market returns. This procedure results in a time series of data that can be related to other variables such as real interest rates and changes in demand for various asset classes.
TIME-DEPENDENT NEUTRON THERMALIZATION FOR A BARE MULTIPLYING MEDIUM

S>A perturbation theory soiution is given for the timedependent, exp(-- trol migration t), neutron thermalization problem for a bare homogeneous multiplying medium. The model is based on diffusion theory with the heavy gas scattering kernel assuming 1/v cross sections with a constant D/ ( BeO), whereas olytic C and /sub 0/). The fission spectrum is assumed to be a delta function at the mean fission energy, /sub f/. The fundamental eigenfunction and eigenvalue are expressed in terms of infinite sums involving the Laguerre polynomials at /sub f/. The sums were evaluated analytically and numerical results are given. (auth)
OSTEOARTICULAR TUBERCULOSIS IN CHILDREN: CASE SERIES

Among the extra pulmonary forms of tuberculosis (TB), the osteoarticular localization has been detached in 1–2% of cases. In 30% of these children either a pulmonary and extra-pulmonary localization was found. The diagnosis of skeletal TB is often insidious due to variable signs and symptoms. The medical records of children admitted to our center between 2006 and 2013 due to skeletal TB were evaluated. All patient underwent TB skin test, IGRA test, chest X-ray and focused imaging tests. In the complicated forms of osteoarthritis the infected material drained spontaneously or surgically was analyzed for Mycobacterium Tuberculosis (MT) detection and culture. In patients with pulmonary localization gastric aspirates or sputum analysis was performed. Nine patients met the inclusion criteria. The median age at diagnosis was 7 (range 2–13) years. All patients presented with local osteoarticular symptoms and 4 of them had fever. In five cases there was a preceding history of minor trauma. Three patients had a case of TB in the family. Four patients had a spinal localization, three hips and two ankles. ERS and CRP values were altered in 7 and 4 patients respectively. All patient underwent radiography, bone three phase scintigraphy and a MRI. The diagnosis of tuberculosis was confirmed by histopathological examination of bone biopsy in 6 (66%) cases. The skin test and the IGRA test were positive in all patients. The chest X-ray showed a pulmonary localization in 3 cases that had positive gastric aspirate or sputum. All patients were treated with isoniazid, rifampicin pyrazinamide and ethambutol. In 3 patients Linezolid or Ciprofloxacin was also associated. The follow-up had an average value of 34 months. Sequelae were reported in 7 patients (limping in 5 cases, severe kyphosis in 2 cases). Owing to its low incidence in developed countries, the diagnosis ot TB is often delayed for months to years. Additionally, we highly recommend taking a biopsy of the site of suspected infection because an early diagnosis is the key to successful treatment.
Muscle focus: a new biomechanical-based index on the selectivity of EMG activity and its application in quantifying the muscle coactivation patterns during isometric torque generation at the elbow and shoulder

Electromyographic (EMG) recordings are widely used in the study of sensorimotor and neuromuscular systems, more specifically, in the measurement of the muscle activation patterns during isometric torque generation at the elbow and shoulder. In this paper, we introduce a new biomechanics based index of muscle focus. This new index quantifies the degree of selectivity in muscle activation during a shoulder/elbow motor task with a scalar. The muscle focus takes into account both muscle co-activation and muscle co-contraction (which is a special case of co-activation caused by activation of agonist and antagonist muscles about a single joint).
An Amusing Sequence of Functions

We introduce an amusing sequence of functions given byA quick look at the graph (see Figure 1) shows that the function has many local minima: we will prove that for every rational number there exis...
Measurement of femtosecond time delay in optical materials using type-III parametric downconversion

Correlated pairs of photons generated in Type-II nonlinear spontaneous parametric down conversion (SPDC) were used to develop a new approach for the measurement of time delay between two orthogonally polarized waves (linear or circular) in optical materials with femtosecond time resolution. This technique can be used to improve the accuracy of measurement of polarization properties of optical fibers, birefringent materials including nonlinear crystals, waveguides, Pockel’s cells and Faraday rotators in the visible and IR spectrum.
How bad is forming your own opinion

Abstract The question of how people form their opinion has fascinated economists and sociologists for long time. In many of the models, a group of people in a social network, each holding a numerical opinion, arrive at a shared opinion through repeated averaging with their neighbors in the network. Motivated by the observation that in reality consensus is rarely reached, we study a related sociological model in which individuals' intrinsic beliefs counterbalance the averaging process and yield a diversity of opinions. We interpret the repeated averaging process as best-response dynamics in an underlying game with natural payoffs and its limit as an equilibrium. This allows us to study the cost of disagreement by comparing between the cost at equilibrium and the social optimum. We also consider a natural network design problem in this setting: which links can we add to the underlying network to reduce the cost at equilibrium?
Single-cell RNA-seq supports a developmental hierarchy in human oligodendroglioma

Although human tumours are shaped by the genetic evolution of cancer cells, evidence also suggests that they display hierarchies related to developmental pathways and epigenetic programs in which cancer stem cells (CSCs) can drive tumour growth and give rise to differentiated progeny. Yet, unbiased evidence for CSCs in solid human malignancies remains elusive. Here we profile 4,347 single cells from six IDH1 or IDH2 mutant human oligodendrogliomas by RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) and reconstruct their developmental programs from genome-wide expression signatures. We infer that most cancer cells are differentiated along two specialized glial programs, whereas a rare subpopulation of cells is undifferentiated and associated with a neural stem cell expression program. Cells with expression signatures for proliferation are highly enriched in this rare subpopulation, consistent with a model in which CSCs are primarily responsible for fuelling the growth of oligodendroglioma in humans. Analysis of copy number variation (CNV) shows that distinct CNV sub-clones within tumours display similar cellular hierarchies, suggesting that the architecture of oligodendroglioma is primarily dictated by developmental programs. Subclonal point mutation analysis supports a similar model, although a full phylogenetic tree would be required to definitively determine the effect of genetic evolution on the inferred hierarchies. Our single-cell analyses provide insight into the cellular architecture of oligodendrogliomas at single-cell resolution and support the cancer stem cell model, with substantial implications for disease management.
Thermochemical Analysis of Chemical Processes Relevant to the Stability and Processing of SiC‐Reinforced Si3N4 Composite

Chemical processes relevant to the stability and processing of SiC-reinforced Si3N4 composites are examined from a thermochemical point of view. The thermodynamic stability of various interfaces, such as SiC-Si3N4, SiC-Si3N4-Si2ON2, and SiC-Si3N4-SiO2, is examined as a function of temperature. The temperatures above which these interfaces become unstable are calculated, and the degradation of SiC during the processing of the composite is examined. The processing routes considered in this study include the reaction-bonded silicon nitride process, as well as pressure-assisted sintering processes in the presence of suitable sintering additives.
Can Markets Discipline Government Agencies? Evidence from the Weather Derivatives Market

We analyze the role of financial markets in shaping the incentives of government agencies using a unique empirical setting: the weather derivatives market. We show that the introduction of weather derivative contracts on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) improves the accuracy of temperature measurement by 13% to 20% at the underlying weather stations. We argue that temperature-based financial markets generate additional scrutiny of the temperature data measured by the National Weather Service, which motivates the agency to minimize measurement errors. Our results have broader implications: the visibility and scrutiny generated by financial markets can potentially improve the efficiency of government agencies.
Euclidean Relativistic Quantum Mechanics: Scattering Asymptotic Conditions

We discuss the formulation of the scattering asymptotic condition in a relativistic quantum theory formulated in terms of reflection positive Euclidean Green functions.
Generalized R-squared for detecting dependence

Detecting dependence between two random variables is a fundamental problem. Although the Pearson correlation coefficient is effective for capturing linear dependence, it can be entirely powerless for detecting nonlinear and/or heteroscedastic patterns. We introduce a new measure, G-squared, to test whether two univariate random variables are independent and to measure the strength of their relationship. The G-squared statistic is almost identical to the square of the Pearson correlation coefficient, R-squared, for linear relationships with constant error variance, and has the intuitive meaning of the piecewise R-squared between the variables. It is particularly effective in handling nonlinearity and heteroscedastic errors. We propose two estimators of G-squared and show their consistency. Simulations demonstrate that G-squared estimators are among the most powerful test statistics compared with several state-of-the-art methods.
Classification of certain asymptotically AdS space-times with Ricci-flat boundary

We classify solutions to Einstein’s equations in AdS with Ricci-flat boundary metric and with covariantly constant boundary stress tensor, which in general is not diagonalizable, i.e. it does not admit a reference frame. New solutions are found, and in the context of the AdS/CFT duality they should describe a boundary QFT in certain non-equilibrium steady states. Further imposing the absence of scalar curvature singularities leads to a subset of metrics that can be seen as null deformations of AdS or of the AdS soliton. We also outline the procedure of solving the equations when a scalar is coupled to the metric, which holographically leads to non-Lorentz-invariant RG flows.
Documenting and Evaluating Data Science Contributions in Academic Promotion in Departments of Statistics and Biostatistics

ABSTACTThe dynamic intersection of the field of Data Science with the established academic communities of Statistics and Biostatistics continues to generate lively debate, often with the two fields playing the role of an upstart (but brilliant), tech-savvy prodigy and an established (but brilliant), curmudgeonly expert, respectively. Like any emerging discipline, Data Science brings new perspectives and new tools to address new questions requiring new perspectives on traditionally established concepts. We explore a specific component of this discussion, namely the documentation and evaluation of Data Science-related research, teaching, and service contributions for faculty members seeking promotion and tenure within traditional departments of Statistics and Biostatistics. We focus on three perspectives: the department chair nominating a candidate for promotion, the junior faculty member going up for promotion, and the senior faculty members evaluating the promotion package. We contrast conservative, strat...
Thick lattice-matched GaInNAs films in photodetector applications

The dilute-nitride GaInNAs shows great promise in becoming the next choice for long-wavelength (0.9 to 1.6 μm) photodetector applications due to the ability for it to be grown lattice-matched on GaAs substrates. GaAs-based devices have several advantages over InP-based devices, such as substrate cost, convenience of processing, and optoelectronic band parameters. This paper will present results from the first high-quality thick GaInNAs films grown by solid state molecular beam epitaxy with a nitrogen plasma source and the first high efficiency photodetectors which have been fabricated from those materials. GaInNAs films up to 2 microns thick have been grown coherently on GaAs substrates. These films exhibit reasonable photoluminescence intensities at peak wavelengths of 1.22 to 1.13 μm before and after a rapid thermal anneal at a series of temperatures. PIN photodiodes with these thick GaInNAs films in the intrinsic regions show responsivity (better than 0.5 A/W at 1.064 μm), dark current (200 nA at -2 V), and signal-to-noise ratio (greater than 10 5 ) approaching those of commercially available InGaAs/InP devices. Furthermore, it will be shown that these devices show significantly lower dark current and higher signal-to-noise ratio than similar metamorphic InGaAs/GaAs structures.
Biasing and the search for primordial non-Gaussianity beyond the local type

Primordial non-Gaussianity encodes valuable information about the physics of inflation, including the spectrum of particles and interactions. Significant improvements in our understanding of non-Gaussanity beyond Planck require information from large-scale structure. The most promising approach to utilize this information comes from the scale-dependent bias of halos. For local non-Gaussanity, the improvements available are well studied but the potential for non-Gaussianity beyond the local type, including equilateral and quasi-single field inflation, is much less well understood. In this paper, we forecast the capabilities of large-scale structure surveys to detect general non-Gaussianity through galaxy/halo power spectra. We study how non-Gaussanity can be distinguished from a general biasing model and where the information is encoded. For quasi-single field inflation, significant improvements over Planck are possible in some regions of parameter space. We also show that the multi-tracer technique can significantly improve the sensitivity for all non-Gaussianity types, providing up to an order of magnitude improvement for equilateral non-Gaussianity over the single-tracer measurement.
Operator-valued frames

We develop a natural generalization of vector-valued frame theory, we term operator-valued frame theory, using operator-algebraic methods. This extends work of the second author and D. Han which can be viewed as the mul- tiplicity one case and extends to higher multiplicity their dilation approach. We prove several results for operator-valued frames concerning duality, dis- jointeness, complementarity , and composition of operator valued frames and the relationship between the two types of similarity (left and right) of such frames. A key technical tool is the parametrization of Parseval operator val- ued frames in terms of a class of partial isometries in the Hilbert space of the analysis operator. We apply these notions to an analysis of multiframe gener- ators for the action of a discrete group G on a Hilbert space. One of the main results of the Han-Larson work was the parametrization of the Parseval frame generators in terms of the unitary operators in the von Neumann algebra gen- erated by the group representation, and the resulting norm path-connectedness of the set of frame generators due to the connectedness of the group of unitary operators of an arbitrary von Neumann algebra. In this paper we general- ize this multiplicity one result to operator-valued frames. However, both the parameterization and the proof of norm path-connectedness turn out to be necessarily more complicated, and this is at least in part the rationale for this paper. Our parameterization involves a class of partial isometries of a different von Neumann algebra. These partial isometries are not path-connected in the norm topology, but only in the strong operator topology. We prove that the set of operator frame generators is norm pathwise-connected precisely when the von Neumann algebra generated by the right representation of the group has no minimal projections. As in the multiplicity one theory there are analogous results for general (non-Parseval) frames.
Information and estimation in Fokker-Planck channels

We study the relationship between information- and estimation-theoretic quantities in time-evolving systems. We focus on the Fokker-Planck channel defined by a general stochastic differential equation, and show that the time derivatives of entropy, KL divergence, and mutual information are characterized by estimation-theoretic quantities involving an appropriate generalization of the Fisher information. Our results vastly extend De Bruijn's identity and the classical I-MMSE relation.
Notes on theories with 16 supercharges

Abstract We survey the various field theories with 16 real supercharges. The most widely known theory in this class is the N = 4 theory in four dimensions. The moduli space of vacua of these theories are described and the physics at the singularities of the moduli spaces are studied.
Competitive employment and workers with mental retardation: Analysis of employers' perceptions and experiences

The results of a survey of three groups of employers (employers of workers with mental retardation who received (a) supported competitive employment services, (b) only job placement services, or no known services) in Virginia were reported. Employers were generally satisfied with the performance of workers with mental retardation, but they were more satisfied with the performance of those who were receiving supported competitive employment services.
The multivariate bullwhip effect

Abstract A multivariate bullwhip expression for m products with an order-up-to inventory policy is developed. The demand models under consideration are differenced stationary vector time series with a Wold representation for which general forecasting formulas are available, resulting in a large class of possible models (including nonstationary ones). Examples are provided for common demand models and implemented on sales data. It is found that the multivariate approach gives rise to mechanisms for understanding and reducing the bullwhip effect through horizontal information sharing, particularly for the nonstationary demand case. In the stationary setting, a more nuanced approach to bullwhip reduction can be achieved by managing the relationship between cross-correlations and lead-times. A method of determining whether a multivariate or univariate approach generates a lower bullwhip effect is proposed.
The thermal expansion of PuC and UC-PuC solid solution

For additional details see report LA-2788. Thermal expansion characteristics for arc melted plutonium-carbon alloys containing 41.1, 43.2, 44.8, 45.4, 45.8 at.% carbon and for U/sub 0.87/Pu/sub 0.13/C have been determined between room temperature and 900 deg C. The average coefflcients of linear thermal expansion for a singie phase alloy conthining 45.8 at.% carbon and for single phase U/sub 0.87/Pu/sub 0.13/C are presented as well as results pertaining to the plutonium-carbon phase diagram. A mechanism has been suggested to explain the unusual contraction that was observed in the dilatometric curves for the alloys that contained 43.2, 44.9, and 45.4 at.% carbon. (auth)
Detection of periodic forced oscillations in power systems

An algorithm for the detection and frequency estimation of periodic forced oscillations in power systems is proposed. The method operates by comparing the periodogram of synchrophasor measurements to a detection threshold. This threshold is established by deriving a general expression for the distribution of the periodogram and is related to the algorithm's probabilities of false alarm and detection. Unlike classic detection algorithms designed for use with white Gaussian noise, the proposed algorithm uses a detection threshold that varies with frequency to account for the colored nature of synchrophasor measurements. Further, a detection method based on multiple segments of data is also proposed to improve the algorithm's performance as a monitoring tool in the online environment. A design approach that helps to ensure that the best-available probability of detection from any one detection segment is constantly increasing with the duration of the forced oscillation is also developed. Results from application of the detection algorithm to simulated and measured power system data suggest that the algorithm provides the expected detection performance and can be used to detect forced oscillations in practical monitoring of power systems.
Mechanisms of Winner-Take-All and Group Selection in Neuronal Spiking Networks.

A major function of central nervous systems is to discriminate different categories or types of sensory input. Neuronal networks accomplish such tasks by learning different sensory maps at several stages of neural hierarchy, such that different neurons fire selectively to reflect different internal or external patterns and states. The exact mechanisms of such map formation processes in the brain are not totally understood. Here we study the mechanism by which a simple recurrent / reentrant neuronal network accomplish group selection and discrimination to different inputs in order to generate sensory maps. We describe the conditions and mechanism of transition from a rhythmic epileptic state (in which all neurons fire synchronized and indiscriminately to any input) to a winner-take-all state in which only a subset of neurons fire for a specific input. We prove an analytic condition under which a stable bump solution and a winner-take-all state can emerge from the local recurrent excitation-inhibition interactions in a three-layer spiking network with distinct excitatory and inhibitory populations, and demonstrate the importance of surround inhibitory connection topology on the stability of dynamic patterns in spiking neural network.
Dynamic Planning of Local Congestion From Varying-Size Vias for Global Routing Layer Assignment

This paper proposes global routing models for capturing the impact of local congestion caused by varying-size vias. The models are then incorporated to dynamically drive a proposed layer assignment algorithm. A typical characteristic of advanced technology nodes is significantly high variation in wire sizes that may exist between adjacent metal layers. Routing from a global cell (g-cell) to its top metal layer results in using a via which may be up to twice the size of unit wire track within that g-cell. This results in significant decrease in the available routing tracks that could pass the boundaries of the g-cell. Ignoring this issue hampers the effectiveness of traditional global routing algorithms due to mismatch with the detailed routing stage. Based on these observations, we propose “via-aware edge overflow” and “edge-aware via overflow” models for capturing the impact of both unstacked and stacked vias of arbitrary sizes during global routing. Our models can be used to drive any layer assignment algorithm and replace the traditional edge overflow and via overflow metrics. To show the impact of our models, we also incorporate them in a proposed two-stage layer assignment algorithm and compare with a competitive layer assignment technique. This is also the first work to actually evaluate the impact of global routing solutions using a commercial detailed router. In our experiments we report fewer number of design rule check violations by only changing the layer assignment during global routing, and detail routing with Olympus-SoC of Mentor Graphics.
Acceleration of Linear Finite-Difference Poisson–Boltzmann Methods on Graphics Processing Units

Electrostatic interactions play crucial roles in biophysical processes such as protein folding and molecular recognition. Poisson–Boltzmann equation (PBE)-based models have emerged as widely used in modeling these important processes. Though great efforts have been put into developing efficient PBE numerical models, challenges still remain due to the high dimensionality of typical biomolecular systems. In this study, we implemented and analyzed commonly used linear PBE solvers for the ever-improving graphics processing units (GPU) for biomolecular simulations, including both standard and preconditioned conjugate gradient (CG) solvers with several alternative preconditioners. Our implementation utilizes the standard Nvidia CUDA libraries cuSPARSE, cuBLAS, and CUSP. Extensive tests show that good numerical accuracy can be achieved given that the single precision is often used for numerical applications on GPU platforms. The optimal GPU performance was observed with the Jacobi-preconditioned CG solver, with ...
Health-related consequences of physical and sexual violence: Women in the military

Objectives: To identify differences in health-related quality of life among women veterans who were raped, physically assaulted (not in the context of rape or domestic violence), both, or neither during military service. Methods: We did a cross-sectional telephone survey of a national sample of 558 women veterans who served in Vietnam and subsequent eras of military service. A stratified survey design selected subjects according to era of service and location. The interview included socioeconomic information, lifetime violence history, the Women’s Military Environment Survey to assess women’s military experiences, and the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form-36 to assess health-related quality of life. Results: Five hundred thirty-seven women completed the interview. Half (48%) experienced violence during military service, including rape (30%), physical assault (35%), or both (16%). Women who were raped or dually victimized were more likely to report chronic health problems, prescription medication use for emotional problems, failure to complete college, and annual incomes less than $25,000 (P < < .05). Women who were physically assaulted or raped reported significantly lower health-related quality of life (P < < .05). Those who had both traumas reported the most severe impairment, comparable to women with chronic illnesses. Conclusion: This study suggests that the sequelae of violence against women are an important public health concern. More than a decade after rape or physical assault during military service, women reported severely decreased health-related quality of life, with limitations of physical and emotional health, educational and financial attainment, and severe, recurrent problems with work and social activities. (Obstet Gynecol 2000;96:473‐ 80.)
The Aircraft Morphing Program

In the last decade smart technologies have become enablers that cut across traditional boundaries in materials science and engineering. Here we define smart to mean embedded actuation, sensing, and control logic in a tightly coupled feedback loop. While multiple successes have been achieved in the laboratory, we have yet to see the general applicability of smart devices to real aircraft systems. The NASA Aircraft Morphing program is an attempt to couple research across a wide range of disciplines to integrate smart technologies into high payoff aircraft applications. The program bridges research in seven individual disciplines and combines the effort into activities in three primary program thrusts. System studies are used to assess the highest- payoff program objectives, and specific research activities are defined to address the technologies required for development of smart aircraft systems. In this paper we address the overall program goals and programmatic structure, and discuss the challenges associated with bringing the technologies to fruition.
Generalized model for the diffusion of solvents in glassy polymers: From Fickian to Super Case II

The diffusion of small solvent molecules in glassy polymers may take on a variety of different forms. Fickian, anomalous, Case II and Super Case II diffusion have all been observed, and theoretical models exist that describe each specific type of behavior. Here we present a single generalized kinetic model capable of yielding all these different types of diffusion on the basis of just two parameters. The principal determinant of the type of diffusion is observed to be a dimensionless parameter, γ, that describes the influence of solvent-induced swelling in lowering the potential barriers separating available solvent sites. A second parameter, η, which characterizes the effect of the solvent in reducing the potential energy of a solvent molecule when at rest at an available site, only influences the type of diffusion to a lesser extent. The theoretical analysis does not include any effects that are explicitly non-local in time, an example of which is the inclusion of polymer viscosity in the Thomas-Windle model; it thus represents a variant of Fick's second law utilizing a concentration-dependent diffusivity when η is small. To check the significance of time-delayed swelling, a simulation of a modified model was performed that contained a history-dependent term. The results were found to be very similar to those in the time-local model.
The effect of warm and cool object colors on depth ordering

Colors that appear closer to the red end of the visible spectrum are said to be warm while the colors that appear closer to the blue end are said to be cool. The phenomenon of warmer colors appearing nearer in depth to viewers than cooler colors has been studied extensively by psychologists and other vision researchers (see [Sundet 1978] for a summary). The vast majority of these studies have asked human observers to view physically equidistant, colored stimuli and compare them for relative depth. However, in most cases, the stimuli presented were rather simple: straight colored lines, uniform color patches, point light sources, or symmetrical objects with uniform shading. Additionally, the colors used were typically highly saturated. Although such stimuli are useful in isolating and studying depth cues in certain contexts, they leave open the question of whether the human visual system operates similarly for realistic objects. This paper presents the results of an experiment designed to explore the color-depth relationship for realistic, colored objects with varying shading and contours.
A Model of Energy, International Trade and Capital Flows

Abstract This paper reports on the formulation and solution of 3RT, a three-region, international equilibrium model of energy, international trade and capital flows. The three regions are defined as: (1) OECD, (2) OPEC and (3) NODC (non-OPEC developing countries). The NUDC region is the one whose growth is most likely to be affected by capital flows and by changes in the international terms of trade. This could have a major impact upon the future price of oil, for there are wide margins of uncertainty over future rates of NUDC energy consumption, production and oil imports (or exports). A fixed-point method of solution is employed.
Inguinal Hernia in Infants: The Fate of the Testis Following Incarceration

In the years from 1971 to 1980 inclusive, 511 infants under 1 year of age presented with inguinal hernia. Of these, 158 (31%) (149 boys and 9 girls) had incarcerated inguinal hernia. In 151 (95.5%) infants the incarcerated inguinal hernia was reduced by taxis and herniotomy performed 48 to 72 hours later. Seven infants (4.5%) required emergency operation. Of the 142 boys whose incarcerations were reduced by taxis 87 (61%) were contacted and examined. They were aged 10 months to 10 years, 9 months at the time of follow-up. Two boys had testis in the groin presumably hitched up at operation. Testicular volume was assessed in 87 boys using Prader's orchidometer. Two boys had unilateral testicular atrophy. In the remaining 85 boys testicular volume was not different from that of age-matched controls. Our data show that the danger of testicular infarction from an incarcerated inguinal hernia, although real, has been much over-emphasized.
Use of the Saline Infusion Test to Diagnose the Cause of Primary Aldosteronism

Angiiensin II has a major effect on minerakcorticoid hormone synthesis in patients with idiiathii hyperakksteronism; lt has liile or no effect in those with an aldosterone-producing adenoma. To determine if thii difference could be of use in clinically separating these two forms of primary aldosteronism, saline infusion tests were performed in 20 patients-14 with surgically proved aldosterone-producing adenoma and six with ldiopathk hyperafdosteronism. With the patients receiving a balanced diet containing 120 meq of sodium, 1,250 ml of lsotonlc saline was infused intravenously between 8 A.M. and 10 A.M. after overnight recumbency. Plasma samples were obtained immediately before and after the infusion. Plasma cortiil level decreased approprlately in both groups, but plasma renin concentration decreased only in those patients with idiopathic hyperaldosterontsm (p <0.05). Aldoeterone and 18-hydroxycortkosterone levels decreased in both groups. To account for the circadian variation in adrenocorlkotropin levels during the course of saline infusion, 1&hydroxycortiiosterone/cortlsol and aldosterone/cortiil ratios were examined. Both ratios Increased in every patient with aldosterone-producing adenoma (p <O.Ol and p <O.OOl, respectively), but these ratios remained unchanged or decreased in the patients with idiopathic hyperaldosteronlsm. This divergent variation in ratios after saline infusion allows for the dlfferentlatkn of patients wlth an aldosterone-producing adenoma from those with idiopathic hyperaldosteronism. In patients with primary aldosteronlsm, an 18-hydroxycorticosterone/cortisol ratlo of less than 3.0 or an aldosterone/cortlsol ratio of less than 2.2 afler saline lnfuslon is diagnostic of idiopathic hyperaldosteronism.
Necrotizing Granulomatous Vasculitis With Eosinophilic Infiltrates Limited to the Prostate. Case Report and Review of the Literature

A 67-year-old white man presented with recurrent bladder outlet obstruction due to allergic granulomatous prostatitis, with no evidence of asthma, allergies, or systemic vasculitis. He is currently doing well on a slowly tapering course of prednisone therapy and has had no recurrence of bladder outlet obstruction. This entity, although rare, must be promptly recognized in order that the proper studies can be performed to search for systemic vasculitis, and the appropriate therapy can be initiated to avoid further bladder outlet obstruction and loss of renal function.
Evaluation of a Monoclonal Antibody-Based Immunoradiometric Assay for Prostatic Acid Phosphatase

This report evaluates a new immunoradiometric assay for prostatic acid phosphatase in serum, based on a dual monoclonal antibody reaction system (Hybritech-TANDEM). A solidphase antibody binds the acid phosphatase molecule and a second monoclonal antibody to a different antigenic site serves as the /sup 125/I-radiolabel. The method was tested on 67 patients with various stages of prostatic carcinoma and 134 patients without the disease. It also was compared with a conventional polyclonal radioimmunoassay (NEN) and an enzymatic activity method (duPont aca). The upper limit for the TANDEM assay on nondiseased male patients was found to be 2.0 microgram/L. Based on this upper limit of normal, the diagnostic sensitivity of the method for all cases of prostatic carcinoma was 60%. Researchs could not distinguish the enzyme released in abnormal amounts due to benign prostatic hypertrophy and certain nonprostatic malignant diseases from that of prostatic carcinoma. The diagnostic specificity was calculated at 95%. For the clinically undetectable Stage 1 disease, sensitivity was 44% (four abnormal values out of nine cases). The TANDEM procedure is simple to use and reproducible.
In Pursuit of Everyday Creativity.

Creativity researchers have long paid careful attention to individual creativity, beginning with studies of well-known geniuses, and expanding to personality, biographical, cognitive, and social-psychological studies of individual creative behavior. Little is known, however, about the everyday psychological experience and associated creative behavior in the life and work of ordinary individuals. Yet evidence is mounting that such individuals can be responsible for important instances of creativity and innovation in the world: open innovation, user innovation, and citizen innovation. Research into this phenomenon could do much to advance the study and practice of creativity.
Repeated Lobbying by Commercial Lobbyists and Special Interests

Developing a lobbying model of repeated agency, we explain previously unexplained features of the real-world lobbying industry. Lobbying is divided between direct representation by special interests to policymakers, and indirect representation where special interests employ professional intermediaries called commercial lobbyists to lobby policymakers on their behalf. Our analytical structure allows us to explain several trends in lobbying. For example, using the observation that in the United States over the last 20 years, policymakers have spent an increasing amount of their time fundraising as opposed to legislating, we are able to explain why the share of commercial lobbyist activity in total lobbying has risen dramatically and now constitutes over 60% of the total. The key scarce resource in our analysis is policymakers' time. Policymakers allocate this resource via implicit repeated agency contracts that are used to incent special interests and commercial lobbyists to provide a mix of financial contributions and information on policy proposals. These implicit agency contracts solve both an information problem in the presence of unverifiable policy information and a contracting problem in the absence of legal enforcement. These repeated relationships, that are often described using the pejorative term “cronyism” in the popular press, may in certain circumstances be welfare improving. (JEL D72, D82, H1, P16)