cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Parametric Study of the Morphological Proprieties of HT-PEMFC Components for Effective Membrane Hydration

A 1D non-isothermal model has been developed to study the optimum morphological properties of HT-PEMFC components that will help the catalyst layer retain water vapor generated by the electrochemical reaction and that delivered by the feed gases. The use of a microporous layer (MPL) helps retain water generated in the catalyst layer (CL), and the effectiveness of the MPL in retaining water vapor in the CL increases the MPL pore size and porosity are reduced. Reducing the GDL porosity is found to help retain more water in the CL but the pore sizes and porosity of the PEMFC components should not be too small, so as to avoid increased O 2 concentration overpotentials. The optimum values of MPL and GDL porosity depend on the operating conditions such as the cell voltage, operating pressure, and inlet relative humidity.
Prompt phonon signals from particle interactions in Si crystals

We discuss the prompt (ballistic and quasidiffuse) phonon physics associated with elementary particle interactions within silicon crystals at temperatures below 1 K, and the differences in the ballistic and quasidiffuse phonon production from primary electron recoils versus primary nuclear recoils within these crystals. We then summarize the results from a growing body of direct experimental evidence on prompt phonon signals from particle detectors bombarded with alphas, x-rays, and neutrons.
Understanding Air Pollution and Cardiovascular Diseases: Is It Preventable?

Fine particulate matter (<2.5 μm, PM2.5) air pollution is a leading risk factor for morbidity and mortality worldwide. The largest portion of adverse health effects is from cardiovascular diseases. In North America, PM2.5 concentrations have shown a steady decline over the past several decades; however, the opposite trend has occurred throughout much of the developing world whereby daily concentrations commonly reach extraordinarily high levels. While air quality regulations can reduce air pollution at a societal level, what individuals can do to reduce their personal exposures remains an active field of investigation. Here, we review the emerging evidence that several interventions (e.g., air filters) and/or behavioral changes can lower PM pollution exposure and as such, may be capable of mitigating the ensuing adverse cardiovascular health consequences. Air pollution remains a worldwide epidemic and a multi-tiered prevention strategy is required in order to optimally protect global public health.
Measurement of the absolute Raman scattering cross sections of sulfur and the standoff Raman detection of a 6‐mm‐thick sulfur specimen at 1500 m

The absolute Raman scattering cross sections (σRS) for the 471, 217, and 153 cm−1 modes of sulfur were measured as 6.0 ± 1.2 × 10−27, 7.7 ± 1.6 × 10−27, and 1.2 ± 0.24 × 10−26 cm2 at 815, 799, and 794 nm, respectively, using a 785-nm pump laser. The corresponding values of σRS at 1120, 1089, and 1081 nm were determined to be 1.5 ± 0.3 × 10−27, 1.2 ± 0.24 × 10−27, and 1.2 ± 0.24 × 10−27 cm2 using a 1064-nm laser. A temperature-controlled, small-cavity (2.125 mm diameter) blackbody source was used to calibrate the signal output of the Raman spectrometers for these measurements. Standoff Raman detection of a 6-mm-thick sulfur specimen located at 1500 m from the pump laser and the Raman spectrometer was made using a 1.4-W, CW, 785-nm pump laser. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analyzing the Vulnerability of U.S. Hospitals to Social Engineering Attacks: How Many of Your Employees Would Share Their Password?

One of the main threats to keeping health information secure in todayâ€™s digital world is that of social engineering. The healthcare industry has benefitted from its employeesâ€™ ability to view patient data. Although access to and transmission of patient data may improve care, increase delivery time of services and reduce health care costs, security of that information may be jeopardized due to the innocent sharing of personal and non-personal data with the wrong person. Through the tactic of social engineering, hackers are able to obtain information from employees that may allow them access into the hospitals networked information system. In this study we simulate a social engineering attack in five different hospitals of varying sizes with the goal of obtaining employees passwords. 73% of respondents shared their password. This raises serious concerns about the state of employee security awareness in our healthcare system.
An assessment of the genetic diversity within a collection ofSaccharum spontaneum L. with RAPD-PCR

A local collection of 33Saccharum spontaneum L. clones and two sugarcane cultivars (LCP 82-89 and LCP 85-384) were assessed for genetic variability using random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD)-PCR. A total of 157 polymorphic RAPD-PCR bands were scored with 17 primers. The number of RAPD-PCR products per primer ranged from four to 16. The data were analyzed with two multivariate analysis software programs, NTSYSpc and DNAMAN®. Although these two programs yielded similar results, a bootstrapped phylogenetic tree could only be generated with the DNAMAN® software. A substantial degree of genetic diversity was found within the localS. spontaneum collection. Pairwise genetic homology coefficients ranged from 65% (SES, 196/Tainan 2n = 96) to 88.5% (IND 81-80/IND 81-144). LCP 82-89 and LCP 85-384 shared a greater similarity (82%) than either was to any clone ofS. spontaneum (ranging from 60.5 to 75.2%). The 33S. spontaneum clones were assigned to eight groups independent of their geographic origin or morphology, while the two sugarcane cultivars were assigned to the ninth group. All but two pairs ofS. spontaneum clones could be distinguished by a single RAPD primer OPBB-02. The use of a second primer, either OPBE-04 or Primer 262, separated allS. spontaneum clones. One amplification product from the RAPD primer OPA-11, OPA-11-336, proved to be cultivar-specific and has been adopted for use in our breeding program. Information from this study would help conserve the genetic diversity ofS. spontaneum.
Researching psychic dimensions of ecological degradation: Notes from the field

This essay presents a narrative of a psychosocial research investigation into the complex experiences of environmental degradation, conducted as a field study in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Using in-depth, psychoanalytically informed research interviews, the study explored the presence of ambivalent, contradictory narratives, suggesting that the experience of environmental degradation may in fact be constituted in part by loss and mourning, which may manifest as a form of environmental melancholia. Such insights are directly relevant for how we conceptualize and imagine theories of agency, engagement and participation. I discuss aspects of the research design, methodology, opportunities and challenges of the project and suggest the need to apply qualitative, psychosocial research methods to the immensely challenging and charged ecological challenges we currently face.
Minor planet 1983TB: A dead comet?

IDS spectra of the Apollo asteroid 1983TB wer obtained at McDonald Observatory on Dec. 2, 1983 UT. These spectra were examined for cometary-type emissions and none were found. The reflectance of 1983TB was found to be similar to an S-type asteroid.
Effects of 4-aminopyridine (4-AP) on rat neostriatal neurons in an in vitro slice preparation

Effects of 4-aminopyridine (4-AP) on the rat neostriatal neuron were studied using the in vitro slice preparation. The intracellularly recorded neurons had resting membrane potentials of more than 50 mV and were capable of generating action potentials with the amplitude greater than 60 mV. Application of 4-AP in the superfusing media depolarizes the cell membrane and increases its input resistance. Local electrical stimulation induces excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs) overlapping with inhibitory postsynaptic potentials (IPSPs) in these neurons. 4-AP application enhances the amplitude and duration of the postsynaptic potentials. With application of higher concentration of 4-AP, local stimulation induces a second EPSP and a bicuculline sensitive long duration depolarization. These results indicate that 4-AP clearly has effects on local stimulation-induced postsynaptic responses of neostriatal neurons. Possible mechanisms underlying the 4-AP actions on neurotransmission in the neostriatal slice are discussed.
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation as treatment of poststroke depression: a preliminary study.

Abstract Background Depression has a significant impact on poststroke recovery and mortality. There are a proportion of patients with poststroke depression (PSD) who do not respond to antidepressants. Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) might be a safe and effective alternative in these refractory cases. Methods We conducted a randomized, parallel, double-blind study of active versus sham left prefrontal rTMS in patients with refractory PSD. After discontinuing antidepressants, patients were randomly assigned to receive 10 sessions of active (10 Hz, 110% of the motor threshold, 20 trains of 5 seconds duration) or sham left prefontal rTMS. Efficacy measures included HAM-D scores, response and remission rates. Patients completed a neuropsychological battery at baseline and after completing the protocol. Results When compared with sham stimulation, 10 sessions of active rTMS of the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex were associated with a significant reduction of depressive symptoms. This reduction was not influenced by patient’s age, type or location of stroke, volume of left frontal leukoaraiosis or by the distance of the stimulating coil to the prefrontal cortex. However, there was a significant positive correlation between the percentage of reduction of Ham-D scores and frontal gray and white matter volumes. There were no significant changes in cognitive functioning between the active and the sham stimulation groups. In addition, there were few and mild adverse effects that were equally distributed among groups. Conclusions Taken together, these preliminary findings suggest that rTMS may be an effective and safe treatment alternative for patients with refractory depression and stroke.
Disruption of Rxra gene in thymocytes and T lymphocytes modestly alters lymphocyte frequencies, proliferation, survival and T helper type 1/type 2 balance

Retinoid X receptor (RXR) agonists, including the vitamin A metabolite 9-cis retinoic acid, decrease T-lymphocyte apoptosis and promote T helper type 2 (Th2) development ex vivo. To examine the in vivo role of RXR-alpha in T-lymphocyte development and function, we disrupted the Rxra gene in thymocytes and T lymphocytes using cyclization recombinase (Cre)-loxP-mediated excision of Rxra exon 4. Expression of Cre was targeted to these cells using the Lck promoter. Successful disruption of exon 4 was seen in thymus and T lymphocytes. Mice were healthy and the thymus, spleen and lymph nodes appeared normal. However, knockout mice had a lower percentage of double-positive (CD4(+) CD8(+)) and a higher percentage of double-negative thymocytes than wild-type mice. The percentage of splenic B lymphocytes was lower in unimmunized and ovalbumin-immunized knockout mice and the percentage of T lymphocytes was lower in immunized knockout mice. Ex vivo proliferation was decreased and apoptosis was increased in T lymphocytes from knockout mice. Memory CD4(+) T lymphocytes from knockout mice produced more interferon-gamma and interleukin-2 (IL-2) and less IL-5 and IL-10 than memory cells from wild-type mice, indicating a Th1 bias in vivo. However, Rxra disruption did not similarly bias ex vivo differentiation of naive CD4(+) T lymphocytes, nor did Rxra disruption alter the serum immunoglobulin G1/immunoglobulin G2a response to immunization. In summary, disruption of Rxra altered the percentages of T and B lymphocytes, produced a Th1 bias in vivo, and altered T-lymphocyte proliferation and apoptosis ex vivo. These differences were modest in magnitude and their impact on disease resistance is yet to be examined.
A comparison of the nutritive value of egg proteins and their amino acid content.

SummaryThe proteins of whole egg, whole egg white, and yolk, were prepared and analyzed for cystine, methionine, phenylalanine, tryptophane, threonine, arginine, histidine, lysine, sulfur, and nitrogen. These proteins were incorporated into diets at a 10% level and fed to young rats. The protein efficiency ratio (gain in weight per gram of protein ingested) was determined after a 2-week feeding period. Commercial preparations of wmole egg and whole white protein were similarly analyzed and their PE ratio determined. The PE ratio of the whole white protein was higher than that of either the whole egg or the yolk proteins. The PE ratio of the commercial whole white protein was almost as high as that of the laboratory prepared sample. The PE ratio of commercial whole egg protein was markedly lower than that of the laboratory prepared sample. The amino acid content of all the whole egg proteins wTere quite similar with the exception of the cystine content of the commercial samples which was lower than that of...
Clinical Utility of a Standardized Electronic Order Set for the Management of Acute Upper Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage in Patients With Cirrhosis

Background & Aims Recent reductions in mortality after acute upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage among patients with cirrhosis have been attributed to early and aggressive use of guideline-recommended pharmacologic agents, antibiotics, and endoscopic therapy. Studies have shown, however, that adherence to recommended guidelines is low. We investigated whether use of a standardized electronic order set would improve adherence to treatment and timeliness of delivery. Methods We performed a prospective observational study, implementing an electronic order set for 123 patients with known or suspected cirrhosis who presented with symptoms/signs of upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage at Parkland Memorial Hospital (in Dallas, TX) from July 2011 through June 2012. The order set included standard nursing orders, laboratory tests, medications, orders for consultative services, and a brief evidence-based review of the benefits of octreotide and antibiotics in patients with cirrhosis. Primary outcomes included overall adherence to the administration of octreotide and antibiotics and the performance of upper endoscopy, as well as time to these interventions. Results Administration of antibiotics increased in patients for whom the order set was used (100% vs 89% for whom it was not used; P = .01); the use of the order set significantly reduced the time to administration of antibiotics (3 h 28 min vs 10 h 4 min; P P P = .95). Conclusions The use of a standardized electronic order set improved not only overall adherence, but also the timeliness of administration of recommended therapies for patients with known or suspected cirrhosis presenting with upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage.
INJECTIVE MODULES, LOCALIZATION AND COMPLETION IN GROUP ALGEBRAS

Abstract Let k be an uncountable field of characteristic zero and G a polycyclic-by-finite group. If P is a prime ideal of kG and L = L (P) the largest Ore set of elements of kG which are regular mod P, it is shown that the injective hull of any simple kG L -module is artinian. The technique used is to construct normal elements in completions of kG at the augmentation ideals of certain abelian normal subgroups. We also show that if N is a normal subgroup of G such that N is torsion free nilpotent of finite rank and G N is polycyclic-by-finite, then the completion is Noetherian.
Invertebrate community and stream substrate responses to woody debris removal from an ice storm-impacted stream system, NY USA

We assessed the influence of ice-storm-derived debris dams on aquatic macroinvertebrates and stream substrates in a high-gradient watershed in the eastern Adirondack Mountains of New York State. Using a modification of electrofishing techniques, invertebrates were collected once before (June 2000) and once after (June 2001) wood removal from the downstream reach in each of six pairs of reaches (second and third-order streams). Stream substrates were also mapped in 2000 and 2001 to evaluate shifts in dominant substrates within a reach following wood removal. The following metrics were used to compare the invertebrate communities before and after wood removal: genera similarity, Shannon–Weiner equitability, taxa richness, dominant taxon, percent dominance and functional feeding group relative abundance. The changes in removal reaches were evaluated relative to changes in upstream reference reaches using a Before-After Control-Impact (BACI) design and analysis. Stream substrates did not change significantly in response to wood removal, although a trend toward coarser substrates was observed following removal. Following wood removal, the relative proportion of grazers increased upstream and downstream from removed dams in all streams; however, comparisons of other metrics indicated no significant response to removal. Invertebrate responses to wood removal were lower than expected, perhaps due to the presence of abundant boulder-formed pools in this high gradient system.
Teaching: The Lessons of Hope

Abstract Defining hope as the perceived capacity to produce clear goals, along with the routes to reach these goals (pathways thinking) and the motivation to use those routes (agency thinking) (Snyder, 1994), I describe the basic lessons that I have learned in applying these hope theory principles to teaching. Specifically, in my wedding hope theory to Aronson's jigsaw classroom concepts (Aronson & Patnoe, 1997), I introduce five general teaching lessons: (1) Spending time on and caring about students; (2) Setting goals for students that are clear and cooperative in nature; (3) Creating routes for learning that involve interacting with fellow students; (4) Helping students to become motivated in joint learning activities; and (5) Imparting an atmosphere whereby students are concerned about their welfares and the welfares of their classmates (“we/me” environments).
Life cycle of Simulium jenningsi (Diptera: Simuliidae) in southern West Virginia.

The life cycle of Simulium jenningsi Malloch was compared at two study sites representing the largest and smallest streams (New River and Indian Creek, respectively) where this species is known to breed in southern West Virginia. Larvae first appeared in March, and the first generation emerged in April, followed by two to four more generations by September. A few larvae and adults persisted in autumn, then the population over wintered in the egg stage. There were considerable differences in life cycle at the two study sites. In the New River, emergence of the first generation was 2-3 wk earlier, there were five generations rather than three, and the last larvae of the season persisted 1 mo later as compared with Indian Creek. Warmer temperature and higher quality food in the New River are probable explanations for differences in life cycle. Effective pest management of this species will require larviciding at frequent intervals (1-2 wk) from April through September in many streams over a broad geographic area because of the species nonsynchronous life cycle, occurrence in different size streams, and strong dispersal ability.
Service operations management: case studies of architectural firms’ commitment to quality assurance

The field of architecture, as with many professional service-oriented industries, is strongly influenced by the current recession and is experiencing cutthroat competition at all levels. Quality assurance measures were investigated within the architecture industry in two firms. There are many ways that an architecture firm can establish a quality management program, such as the American Institute of Architects’ recommended RISMI (review, identify, standardise/stabilise, measure, and improve) feedback cycle to create a self-improving quality. It was found that both firms can increase efficiencies, reduce redundancies, and eliminate unnecessary costs from errors and mistakes. From a positive perspective, the current economic downturn has forced many service firms to self-evaluate their quality assurance programs and provided them the opportunity for self-correction in light of the new realities of the business environment.
Conductivity of incompletely filled periodic arrays of spheres

We consider the problem of determining the effective thermal conductivity k$^{\prime}$ of a composite that consists of spherical particles of thermal conductivity $\alpha $k arranged on the lattice of a periodic array and surrounded by a matrix of conductivity k when a fraction f of the lattice sites is unoccupied by the particles. This may be regarded as a model of a composite medium in which the dispersed phase consists of relatively large aggregates. A method is developed to account for the long range multiparticle interactions and to determine k$^{\prime}$ powers of a, where a is the ratio of the particle diameter to the lattice size. By using this method we determine k$^{\prime}$ correct to O(a$^{14}$) for all values of f and $\alpha $. We also determine the ratio of effective conductivities k$^{\prime}$/k$^{\ast}$, where k$^{\ast}$ is the conductivity at f = 0, for the case of when the particles are highly conducting ($\alpha \gg $ 1) and are nearly touching their neighbours (a $\rightarrow $ 1) via Monte-Carlo simulations including up to 3 $\times $ 10$^{4}$ particles. We then combine the two results to obtain estimates of k$^{\prime}$ that are expected to be accurate for a wide range of $\alpha $, a, and f.
Testing of iterative logic arrays

A method is presented to identify test vectors for iterative logic arrays (ILA). An ILA consists of several identical cells connected together in a regular configuration. The circuit regularity is exploited to regenerate the test vectors, applied at the boundary cells, within the array and thus propagate the test vectors to the entire array. This facilitates simultaneous testing of the entire circuit. The method covers a wide range of regular array structures like adders, multipliers, and interconnection networks. >
On the Evolution of Friction-Induced Nanostructures in Single Crystal Nickel

We have investigated the fundamental phenomena governing the friction-induced microstructures in single crystal nickel. Friction measurements were made using a unidirectional linear wear tester against a hard Si3 N4 ball so that deformation is confined to the softer Ni surface. To minimize the environmental effects on friction, we conducted the experiments in dry nitrogen atmosphere. A high precision rotary stage was designed and built to enable friction measurements to be made in specific crystallographic directions. Measurements were made on (100), (110) and (111) crystal faces. Focused ion beam (FIB) microscopy was used to prepare cross-sections of wear scars suitable for electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analyses. The EBSD data revealed the formation of low-angle grain boundaries leading to the development of fine-grained equiaxed recrystallized substructues underneath the wear scars. The extent of subsurface deformation and the steady state friction coefficients were strongly dependent on the crystal orientation. At higher contact stresses, TEM analysis confirmed the formation of fine-grained equiaxed nanocrystalline grain structures. Subsequent friction tests on these nanostructured layers performed at much reduced contact stresses showed significant reductions in the friction coefficients. The role of the friction-induced nanostructures on the mechanisms of metallic friction is discussed.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
People aged above 65 treated for latent tuberculosis are at increased risk of admission for a hepatic event compared with untreated controls

Commentary on: BM Smith, K Schwartzman, G Bartlett, et al.. Adverse events associated with treatment of latent tuberculosis in the general population. CMAJ2011;183:E173–9.
Bio‐optical provinces of the Northeast Pacific Ocean: A provisional analysis.

A provisional analysis of satellite ocean color imagery and in situ profiles of spectral irradiance and Chl a fluorescence partitions the Northeast Pacific Ocean into four geographically and bio- optically distinct provinces: the California Current system, the Alaskan gyre, the east central North Pacific central gyre, and the subarctic front. Within each province in a given 2-month period (June- July 1985 and October-November 1982), a family of regression equations was found to accurately predict the vertical profiles of irradiance attenuation and normalized Chl a fluorescence from K490-the surface diffuse attenuation coefficient which can be estimated from remotely sensed ocean color. The irradiance attenuation profile (to the depth where irradiance is 0.1% of the surface value) is predicted directly from the reciprocal of K490. Prediction of the Chl a fluorescence profile is based on a log-linear photoadaptive profile of fluorescence over diffuse optical depth-a con- ceptual model which robustly fit the entire sample analyzed. Given K490, the profile is determined from four regression models predicting the depth in meters of the fluorescence maximum, the optical depth of the deep background fluorescence minimum, the surface intercept of the profile, and the slope of the profile between the surface and maximum. Remotely sensed ocean color can be used to determine phytoplankton pigment con- centrations and optical diffuse attenuation coefficient K(490) (units given in list of sym- bols) in the near-surface layer of the ocean. A concern is that remotely sensed bio-op- tical properties represent only a shallow sur- face layer of the sea, while maxima in ver- tical profiles of Chl a concentrations (and Chl a fluorescence) are typically 2-3 times decpcr, and values at the maxima may greatly exceed those near the surface. Be- cause of this profile shape, past work found pigment biomass at the surface to be poorly correlated with that integrated through the euphotic zone in oligotrophic waters of the
Remote sensing estimates of inherent optical properties in a coastal environment

Abstract High resolution aircraft remote sensing imagery and in situ optical data were coupled to characterize the spatial and temporal variability of the inherent optical properties in the near-surf zone off Fort Walton Beach, Florida in August 1994. Upwelling radiance measurements at SeaWiFS wavelengths were collected over a uniform, highly reflective white sand bottom at a ground resolution of 2..5 m using the CASI sensor (Compact Airborne Spectral Imager). Following atmospheric correction, the total remote sensing reflectance signal was partitioned into bottom and water volume reflectance components, using measurements of bottom albedo, water depth, and the diffuse attenuation coefficient at the time of the overflight. The water components were entered in the SeaWiFS biooptical model to derive spectral absorption and scattering coefficients. After applying minor algorithm and coefficient adjustments, model results compared favorably with in situ measurements. The biooptical model was subsequently applied to the aircraft imagery to describe the spatial distribution of absorption and scattering. Elevated absorption and particle scattering were observed over the sand bar and shoreward (a555=0.19 m −1 , b555=0.7 m −1 ). The temporal variability of the inherent optical properties over a I-week period was similar to the spatial variability along a 500-in offshore transect.
Differential Occurrence of Reluctant Openings in G-Protein–Inhibited N- and P/Q-Type Calcium Channels

Voltage-dependent inhibition of N- and P/Q-type calcium channels by G proteins is crucial for presynaptic inhibition of neurotransmitter release, and may contribute importantly to short-term synaptic plasticity. Such calcium-channel modulation could thereby impact significantly the neuro-computational repertoire of neural networks. The differential modulation of N and P/Q channels could even further enrich their impact upon synaptic tuning. Here, we performed in-depth comparison of the G-protein inhibition of recombinant N and P/Q channels, expressed in HEK 293 cells with the m2 muscarinic receptor. While both channel types display classic features of G-protein modulation (kinetic slowing of activation, prepulse facilitation, and voltage dependence of inhibition), we confirmed previously reported quantitative differences, with N channels displaying stronger inhibition and greater relief of inhibition by prepulses. A more fundamental, qualitative difference in the modulation of these two channels was revealed by a modified tail-activation paradigm, as well as by a novel “slope” analysis method comparing time courses of slow activation and prepulse facilitation. The stark contrast in modulatory behavior can be understood within the context of the “willing–reluctant” model, in which binding of G-protein βγ subunits to channels induces a reluctant mode of gating, where stronger depolarization is required for opening. Our experiments suggest that only N channels could be opened in the reluctant mode, at voltages normally spanned by neuronal action potentials. By contrast, P/Q channels appear to remain closed, especially over these physiological voltages. Further, the differential occurrence of reluctant openings is not explained by differences in the rate of G-protein unbinding from the two channels. These two scenarios predict very different effects of G-protein inhibition on the waveform of Ca2+ entry during action potentials, with potentially important consequences for the timing and efficacy of synaptic transmission.
ELIAS: An Accurate and Extensible Lithography Aerial Image Simulator With Improved Numerical Algorithms

Lithography simulators have been playing an indispensable role in process optimization and design for manufacturability (DFM). The ever smaller feature sizes demand higher numerical accuracy and faster runtime on these lithography simulators. Aerial image simulation is the first key step in lithography simulation, and the method using transmission cross coefficient (TCC), which is a two-dimensional integral, is the most commonly used technique for full-chip aerial image simulation. In this paper, we present a very accurate, yet efficient and extensible aerial image simulator, ELIAS. We find that the majority of the numerical error during the TCC computation is due to the discontinuous boundaries of the support of the TCC integrand. We reduce the error dramatically by using a recursive integration algorithm. Because TCC is usually computed on uniform grids, we further speed up the algorithm without increasing the errors. Given the same accuracy, our new algorithm can speed up the runtime by 100 times - 1000times. Our algorithm also provides smooth tradeoff between accuracy and runtime. It can be used to benchmark other lithography aerial simulators. In addition, ELIAS provides an open-source, flexible software framework to incorporate different lithography settings.
Morbidity of dysfunctional voiding syndrome

Abstract Objectives External sphincter dyssynergia in the absence of an identifiable causative neurologic lesion (dysfunctional voiding, Hinman-Allen syndrome, non-neurogenic neurogenic bladder) has been known to cause significant morbidity. To determine the outcomes in this syndrome, we conducted a retrospective study of 37 patients referred for urodynamic studies and subsequently diagnosed with dysfunctional voiding. Methods After diagnosis, follow-up was conducted through chart review and telephone calls to the primary physicians or the patients. Results Follow-up was possible in 27 patients (17 female, 10 male; mean follow-up 49 months, range 4 to 192). The average age at diagnosis was 12 years. Eleven patients developed significant or ongoing morbidity. Ten of these 11 patients underwent 17 operations. Eight patients were cured through medication, behavioral modification, intermittent catheterization, and/or other nonoperative treatments. The remaining 8 patients did not experience significant morbidity but did not have resolution of their symptoms as of their last medical evaluation, and most were lost to follow-up. Conclusions Dysfunctional voiding resulted in severe morbidity in 11 (40%) of 27 study patients. Eight patients (30%) were cured using nonoperative, conservative treatments, and 8 (30%) had unresolved symptoms within the follow-up period. Urodynamic studies are essential in the diagnosis of the syndrome but cannot be used to consistently predict outcome.
Visual prostheses: Current progress and challenges

We have recently designed, fabricated and implanted a visual prosthesis. Animal studies show that the implant remains viable post-op. There exist numerous challenges to move the implant from the bench o the bedside and requires a concerted effort from scientists in different disciplines to come together. We hope that in the future that we will eventually take the important step being able to perform human studies to understand the efficacy of a chronic retinal implant.
Optimal threshold selection in hierarchical coders for images and video

A hierarchical coder (HC) is constructed from a number of simple coders for image blocks arranged in order of increasing bit rate and reproduction quality. This paper discusses several aspects of hierarchical coders, including: a general description of the structure of a HC, its advantages and important design considerations, a discussion of how threshold selection can affect the performance of the coder through a simple example, and an introduction of a simple procedure for selecting optimal (in the rate distortion sense) decision thresholds which control the levels of the hierarchy. >
Study of dynamic of a micro grid including photovoltaic power plant

This paper presents a dynamic analysis of a micro grid including Photovoltaic units. A four-bus system including an infinite bus is considered for the simulations. The system is modeled using MATLAB Simulink software package. Different combinations of synchronous generators and PV units are simulated and their dynamic performances during different disturbances are studied in the paper. From these studies it is concluded that using PV units in a micro grid will make the dynamic of the system faster and system reaches to its steady-state point faster using more PV units. But, because PV units have no governor and exciter system (unlike conventional synchronous generators), the steady-state point of the system may be unacceptable (due to under- or over-voltage).
A Novel MDR1 G1199T Variant Alters Drug Resistance and Efflux Transport Activity of P-Glycoprotein in Recombinant Hek Cells

The human multidrug resistance gene MDR1 encodes the protein product P-glycoprotein (P-gp). P-gp is an integral membrane protein which mediates ATP-dependent substrate efflux. We recently discovered a novel G --> T variant at 1199 nucleotide position of MDR1 which exhibits a 2.3% allelic frequency in leukemia patients. The functional effects of this MDR1-G1199T variant were evaluated with recombinant HEK cells that stably express the wild-type, G1199A, or G1199T variant of the MDR1 protein, P-gp, at comparable levels. A panel of cytotoxic P-gp substrates comprising doxorubicin, vinblastine, vincristine, paclitaxel, or topotecan (a poor P-gp substrate) was used to evaluate the functional impact of G1199 variations. Compared to MDR1(wt), MDR1(G1199A) exhibited an increased resistance to doxorubicin, paclitaxel, vinblastine, and vincristine. In contrast, MDR1(G1199T) reduced resistance to (1/4) that of MDR1(wt) for all drugs except topotecan. Expression of MDR1 exhibits some degree of resistance to topotecan, but 1199 variation has no impact. These data were consistent with the variation in intracellular doxorubicin concentrations measured in MDR1 recombinant cells. Our results suggest that patients with the novel MDR1-G1199T variant may exhibit a lower degree of MDR1 dependent chemoresistance, and those with the G1199A polymorphism may exhibit a higher degree of resistance, compared with MDR1 wild-type patients.
Dynamic programming based approach for optimal transport by flashing ratchet against a load force

Flashing ratchet is a mechanism which employs noise under isothermal and non equilibrium conditions. Its primary is to transport of small particles, possibly against a load force, under the influence of thermal noise and potential energy landscapes that can be realized locally, near the particles position. In this article we present a dynamic programming based approach to analyze and synthesize optimal strategies in the presence of a non-zero load force and finite sampling intervals. We show that it is possible to obtain an order increase in velocity and stalling force, over open-loop strategies. Besides engineered systems, study of such strategy is also important to gain insights on the intra-cellular transport of motor proteins (such as Kinesin and Dynein) on a microtubular track, and on the role of feedback control on their transport.
A4-1: Evaluation of the Utilization-Based Population Denominators in the HMORN Context.

Background/Aims Defining a population denominator is a major challenge in practice-based research. Because health plan membership is unknown, population denominators must be determined by alternate methods, e.g., healthcare utilization. Such an approach may introduce bias since the resulting population may only represent a small portion of individuals who are affiliated with a healthcare organization. Moreover, healthcare utilization is often confounded by demographic and socio-economic factors, potentially compounding bias in the population estimates.
Use of weak acids to determine the bulk diffusion limitation of H+ ion conductance through the gramicidin channel

The addition of 2 M formic acid at pH 3.75 increased the single channel H+ ion conductance of gramicidin channels 12-fold at 200 mV. Other weak acids (acetic, lactic, oxalic) produce a similar, but smaller increase. Formic acid (and other weak acids) also blocks the K+ conductance at pH 3.75, but not at pH 6.0 when the anion form predominates. This increased H+ conductance and K+ block can be explained by formic acid (HF) binding to the mouth of the gramicidin channel (Km = 1 M) and providing a source of H+ ions. A kinetic model is derived, based on the equilibrium binding of formic acid to the channel mouth, that quantitatively predicts the conductance for different mixtures of H+, K+, and formic acid. The binding of the neutral formic acid to the mouth of the gramicidin channel is directly supported by the observation that a neutral molecule with a similar structure, formamide (and malonamide and acrylamide), blocks the K+ conductance at pH 6.0. The H+ conductance in the presence of formic acid provides a lower bound for the intrinsic conductance of the gramicidin channel when there is no diffusion limitation at the channel mouth. The 12-fold increase in conductance produced by formic acid suggests that greater than 90% of the total resistance to H+ results from diffusion limitation in the bulk solution.
The Correlations and Volatilities of Stock Returns: The CAPM Beta and the Fama-French Factors

This paper conducts time-series tests on the Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM) and the Fama-French three-factor (FF3) model in the context of market beta estimation for the cost of equity capital. We find that the market index is by far the most consistent and powerful systematic risk factor throughout the sample period, for both large- and micro-cap stocks, in FF3 model as well as CAPM specifications, and across industry sectors. Most of market beta estimates are statistically significant and appear to be economically consistent with the systematic risk exposure of individual stocks. Consistent with the theory, virtually all alpha estimates are statistically zero. Market volatilities are critical for beta estimates. When the market is highly volatile, beta estimates breakdown as do the correlations of stock returns with the market index. For small-cap stocks and in a highly volatile market, SMB and HML stabilize the market beta and improve the statistical explanatory power; for large-cap and in a relatively stable market, SMB and HML add little to the CAPM beta. Model diagnostics show that the CAPM and the FF3 model are practically equivalent. Parameter estimates of the CAPM are generally superior to those of the FF3 model, except for some small-cap stocks and in a highly volatile market. On the other hand, statistical explanatory power of the FF3 model is generally superior to that of the CAPM.
Interactive Hyperspectral Image Visualization Using Convex Optimization

In this paper, we propose a new framework to visualize hyperspectral images. We present three goals for such a visualization: 1) preservation of spectral distances; 2) discriminability of pixels with different spectral signatures; 3) and interactive visualization for analysis. The introduced method considers all three goals at the same time and produces higher quality output than existing methods. The technical contribution of our mapping is to derive a simplified convex optimization from a complex nonlinear optimization problem. During interactive visualization, we can map the spectral signature of pixels to red, green, and blue colors using a combination of principal component analysis and linear programming. In the results, we present a quantitative analysis to demonstrate the favorable attributes of our algorithm.
Immunology of Head and Neck Cancer

The immune system plays a key role in the ­progression of head and neck cancer. A greater understanding of the important contribution of the dysregulation and evasion of the immune system in the development and evolution of head and neck cancers should lead to improved therapies and outcomes for patients. Head and neck cancer evades the host immune system through manipulation of its own immunogenicity, production of immunosuppressive molecules, and promotion of immunomodulatory cell types. Also, the immune system can be exploited to promote metastasis, angiogenesis, and growth. In this chapter, we review basic immunology as it relates to head and neck cancer and discuss the theory of cancer immunosurveillance and immune escape. Current research on cytokines as biomarkers, cancer stem cell tumor antigens, and immunotherapeutic strategies are presented.
Lung inflammation promotes metastasis through neutrophil protease-mediated degradation of Tsp-1.

Inflammation is inextricably associated with primary tumor progression. However, the contribution of inflammation to tumor outgrowth in metastatic organs has remained underexplored. Here, we show that extrinsic inflammation in the lungs leads to the recruitment of bone marrow-derived neutrophils, which degranulate azurophilic granules to release the Ser proteases, elastase and cathepsin G, resulting in the proteolytic destruction of the antitumorigenic factor thrombospondin-1 (Tsp-1). Genetic ablation of these neutrophil proteases protected Tsp-1 from degradation and suppressed lung metastasis. These results provide mechanistic insights into the contribution of inflammatory neutrophils to metastasis and highlight the unique neutrophil protease–Tsp-1 axis as a potential antimetastatic therapeutic target.
The Effects of Local Heating and Cooling of Arm on Maximal Isometric Force Generated by the Elbow Flexor Musculature in Male Subjects

Objectives: It is well known that neuromuscular function is temperature sensitive. Changing of muscle temperature can effect voluntary muscle contraction. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of cooling and heating on maximal isometric force generated by the elbow flexor musculature in male subjects Methods:Forty five healthy males encompassing 3 groups participated in the current study. The maximal isometric forces of elbow flexion were measured before and after placing ice and hot packs over the arm for 15 minutes. Paired t tests were used to compare differences between pre and post maximal forces between groups Results:The results showed no significant difference between pre and post maximal isometric force scores in control and heat groups (P>0.05) and significant difference between pre and post cooling maximal isometric force scores (P=0.02) Conclusion: The results suggest that the use of 15 minutes cold pack over the arm can significantly increase muscle force, however, the use of hot pack had no change in force output
Subtle Implicit Language Facts Emerge from the Functions of Constructions.

Much has been written about the unlikelihood of innate, syntax-specific, universal knowledge of language (Universal Grammar) on the grounds that it is biologically implausible, unresponsive to cross-linguistic facts, theoretically inelegant, and implausible and unnecessary from the perspective of language acquisition. While relevant, much of this discussion fails to address the sorts of facts that generative linguists often take as evidence in favor of the Universal Grammar Hypothesis: subtle, intricate, knowledge about language that speakers implicitly know without being taught. This paper revisits a few often-cited such cases and argues that, although the facts are sometimes even more complex and subtle than is generally appreciated, appeals to Universal Grammar fail to explain the phenomena. Instead, such facts are strongly motivated by the functions of the constructions involved. The following specific cases are discussed: a) the distribution and interpretation of anaphoric one, b) constraints on long-distance dependencies, c) subject-auxiliary inversion, and d) cross-linguistic linking generalizations between semantics and syntax.
Note on an Absolute Constant of Khintchine

(1939). Note on an Absolute Constant of Khintchine. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 46, No. 3, pp. 148-152.
Feature extraction and classification experiment of underwater acoustic signals based on energy spectrum of IMF's

Empirical Mode Decomposition(EMD)is a method of signal analysis for processing nonlinear and non-stationary signal. EMD can decompose out different time scale of local feature from the original signal. And then the Intrinsic Mode Function(IMF)of those local characteristic signals is got. A new feature extraction and selection method of underwater acoustic signals based on energy spectrum of Intrinsic Mode Function(IMF's)is presented, where these intrinsic mode components are decomposed via empirical mode decomposition from original signals and transformed into energy spectrum feature vectors, and thus the different signals' energy spectrum features of sub-band frequency can be inspected. Support Vector Machine(SVM)classifier is used for classification experiments. The results show that the correct identification ratio of experiments based on IMF's energy spectrum is above 88%, which is superior to feature extraction of wavelet energy spectrum.
Channel sensing and access algorithm based on POMDP

In order to maximize the throughput of secondary user in cognitive radio network, while the interference to primary user under the predefined threshold, a new channel sensing and access algorithm based on Partially Observable Markov Decision Process(POMDP)is proposed in this paper. The primary channel has been divided into several slots equally in time domain. At beginning of each slot, the secondary user selects an optimal strategy from three actions:spectrum sensing, access the channel with a larger power and access the channel with a low power. It formulates the selection of secondary users as a POMDP problem, some optimal strategies are proposed to solve the problem. Illustrative results indicate the efficiency of the proposed algorithm.