cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Virtual wireless network mapping: An approach to housing MVNOs on wireless meshes

Virtual network (VN) mapping is a useful tool for mapping VNs to physical mesh networks. This study extends the idea of mapping VNs from the wired world to the wireless domain by showing its potential applications. Since the generic VN mapping problem is NP-Hard, this study shows how the wireless VN mapping problem can be simplified and be used instead as a mechanism for provisioning wireless points of presences (POPs) as additions to conventional cellular voice and data services. Two heuristic algorithms GSA and GDR are proposed for producing a 2-phase solution to the mapping problem, which corresponds to conventional network deployment process. The results obtained from the VN mapping algorithms proposed here can be used for comparison of overall performance achieved by deploying a particular type of physical network. Further, using this setup, the network operator can determine the costs and benefits associated with setting wired or wireless links on the physical network. Performance is determined based on perceived revenue, and substrate utilization.
Processing high-speed stereo particle image velocimetry data with an integrated cluster supercomputer

This paper presents the design of a cluster supercomputer integrated with a Particle Image Velocimetry measurement system. The system was designed so that it is fairly portable and can fit within the power and cooling constrains of a simple experimental fluid dynamics lab. Several low power processor choices are compared and one node of the proposed systems is tested for its suitability as a compute node in such a cluster computer. Data management issues are discussed as well since such a system is able to process and store large amounts of data. By extending an existing Computational Fluid Dynamics standard to experimental fluid dynamics data several data management problems can be overcome and the data exchange between computations and experiments can be facilitated.
Computer literacy: An interdisciplinary, hands on approach at the Evergreen State College, Olympia Washington

The Evergreen State College is a fully accredited four year undergraduate liberal arts college of the State of Washington. Evergreen was founded in the late sixties as an alternative to the prevailing pedagogical model of undergraduate specialization. Evergreen instead favors integrated, thematic academic programs which typically involve faculty from several disciplines. From its inception the College has had a strong commitment to familiarizing its students with the computer as a tool. This paper outlines some of the methods used at Evergreen and indicates some of the lessons we have learned which may be useful to other liberal arts colleges.
Sister chromatid exchange data fit with a mixture of Poisson distributions.

Abstract Bowman et al. [K.O. Bowman, Wesley Eddings, Marvin A. Kastenbaum, L.R. Shenton. Sister chromatid exchange data and Gram–Charlier series, Mutat. Res., 403 (1998) 159–169.] have shown that a Gram–Charlier modification of a negative binomial distribution gives a reasonable fit to counts of sister chromatid exchange (SCE) data originally presented by Bender et al. [M.A. Bender, R.J. Preston, R. C. Leonard, B.E. Pyatt, P.C. Gooch, On the distribution of spontaneous SCE in human peripheral blood lymphocytes, Mutat. Res., 281 (1992) 227–232.]. Here we show that a mixture of a generalized Poisson distributions also fits the data. Advantages of the generalized Poisson mixture include a simplified model involving only four parameters which fits the data more closely according to the chi-squared goodness-of-fit criterion.
High temperature operation of multi-watt, axial-flux, permanent-magnet microgenerators

Abstract This paper presents the characterization and modeling of a permanent-magnet (PM) microgenerator operating at high temperatures. Due to the thermal dependence of the relevant properties of the conductor and magnetic materials, degradation of the output electrical power with increased temperature is expected. Each material of the PM microgenerator is magnetically or electrically characterized up to 375 °C. For a rotor designed for high temperature operation using SmCo magnets, 2.7 W of DC power has been obtained at 100 °C and 210,000 rpm, which is a 35% drop as compared to the output power at room temperature. This result is in good agreement with theory. Calculations showed that this PM generator is capable of 2.4 W of DC output power at an operating temperature of 300 °C if the rotational speed is increased up to the 300,000 rpm, as achieved with previous room temperature devices. This work demonstrates that MEMS-based permanent-magnet microgenerators are good candidates as a component of a heat-engine-driven electrical power generation system.
Markov error structure for throughput analysis of adaptive modulation systems combined with ARQ over correlated fading channels

We introduce an analytical method that uses a finite-state Markov chain (FSMC) as an error model, for estimating the performance of adaptive modulation systems (AMSs) combined with automatic repeat request (ARQ) schemes in correlated slow fading channels. For the throughput performance evaluation of wireless packet networks, conventionally, we have assumed independent block fading, which may also be suitable to represent fast fading channels. However, in slow fading channels, error rates of consecutive packets are highly correlated and we cannot simply assume independent error structure in performance evaluations. We propose a multistate Markov error structure for AMS in correlated fading channels, which is also described by a finite-state Markov chain (FSMC) and we also present throughput-estimation methods for AMS combined with ARQ, using the proposed Markov error structure.
Purification and characterization of a novel extracellular protease from Beauveria bassiana

An extracellular protease designated BBP (Beauveria bassiana protease) was purified from a B. bassiana isolate and subsequently characterized. It was produced in the late stages of growth in a gelatin medium, and was purified using a combination of ionexchange chromatography and preparative gel electrophoresis. Inhibition by phenylmethylsulphonyl fluoride and chymostatin indicates that BBP is a serine type with chymotrypsin activity. Substrate specificity indicates that the protease has elastase activity as well. The protease was stable at 25 °C and had an alkaline pH optimum (7.5–9.5). Another protease was purified from the same isolate that produced BBP, and was identified as Pr1 based on its isoelectric point, amino terminal sequence, substrate specificity and cuticle degrading ability. A comparison between the two showed that BBP had a lower isoelectric point (pl 7.5) than Pr1 (pl ≥ 10) and was 0.5 kDa smaller. The proteases also exhibited differences in substrate specificity with Pr1 being most active against Suc-Ala-Ala-Pro-Phe-pNA, and BBP being most active against MeOSuc-Ala-Ala-Pro-Met-pNA. The two proteases had equal cuticle-degrading activity and both were expressed in cuticle media, although the timing of their expression differed.
Theoretical Air Pollution and Climate Effects on Materials Confirmed by Zinc Corrosion Data

Observed effects of pollution level, relative humidity, temperature, wind velocity, and surface geometry are explained using diffusion theory and thermodynamics. Many materials readily react with pollutants, thus, the rate controlling step is the flux of pollutants to the surface. In such cases, dose-response damage coefficients can be calculated from turbulent diffusion theory. Electrochemical corrosion of metals occurs when the surfaces are wet. A surface will become wet when the relative humidity adjacent to the surface exceeds a value in equilibrium with a saturated solution of a corrosion product or contaminant on the surface. Based on these considerations, the consistency of predictions with observed effects suggests that air pollution damage functions can be calculated for a variety of material surfaces for which data are not available.
Body Composition of Chicks as Influenced by Environmental Temperature and Selected Dietary Factors

Abstract Four trials were conducted to study the effects of environmental temperature in relation to selected dietary factors and age on the carcass composition of broilers. The temperatures used in these trials were 7.2°, 10.0°, 18.3°, 21.1°, 29.4°, and 32.2°C. Total carcasses were analyzed for moisture, ether extract and protein. There was a significant decrease in carcass ether extract with a concomitant increase in moisture content with decreasing temperature. Carcasses from birds reared at 18.3° and 29.4°C. receiving a diet containing 2877 kilocalories of metabolizable energy per kilogram contained significantly less ether extract than carcasses of birds receiving the higher energy diets. Carcasses from birds reared at 18.3 °C. receiving a 16.5 percent protein diet contained significantly more ether extract than carcasses of birds receiving the higher protein diets. Protein levels did not significantly affect carcass composition at 29.4°C. Temperature effects on carcass protein content varied between trials, but there appeared to be a trend toward decreasing carcass protein content with increasing temperatures. Carcasses of chicks fed a diet deficient in lysine contained significantly more ether extract than those fed diets adequate or in excess of the lysine requirement. Protein and ether extract content of carcasses increased with the age of the birds and the moisture content decreased.
Party system determinants of electoral reform in post-communist states

Abstract The article examines how the structure of party systems, that is, effective number of political actors, electoral volatility, and shares of dominant party votes and seats, affect the initiation and direction of electoral reform in post-communist democracies. Based on a dataset of electoral rule changes in post-communist democracies from 1992 to 2008, we analyze the frequency and direction of reforms over time. The findings reveal that the frequency of reforms declines with successive electoral cycles but not to the degree suggested by theories of institutional inertia. Countries with high levels of voter volatility are more likely to engage in reforms; however, the findings in this article demonstrate that politicians react to volatility by inconsistently choosing between permissive and restrictive responses.
Different properties of the native and reconstituted heterotrimeric G protein transducin.

Visual signal transduction serves as one of the best understood G protein-coupled receptor signaling systems. Signaling is initiated when a photon strikes rhodopsin (Rho) causing a conformational change leading to productive interaction of this G protein-coupled receptor with the heterotrimeric G protein, transducin (Gt). Here we describe a new method for Gt purification from native bovine rod photoreceptor membranes without subunit dissociation caused by exposure to photoactivated rhodopsin (Rho*). Native electrophoresis followed by immunoblotting revealed that Gt purified by this method formed more stable heterotrimers and interacted more efficiently with membranes containing Rho* or its target, phosphodiesterase 6, than did Gt purified by a traditional method involving subunit dissociation and reconstitution in solution without membranes. Because these differences could result from selective extraction, we characterized the type and amount of posttranslational modifications on both purified native and ...
Recent advances in brain and spine imaging

Advanced MR imaging techniques have found extensive utility in the clinical practice of neuroradiology. A variety of these techniques are incorporated into imaging protocols for routine use, specific applications to particular disease entities, or as problem-solving tools on an ad hoc basis. This article summarizes and illustrates the spectrum of advanced MR imaging tools used clinically in the practice of neuroradiology.
Anthropometric variation and the population history of Ireland

Genetic variation among human populations can reflect a combination of contemporary patterns of gene flow and genetic drift as well as long-term population relationships due to population history. We examine the likely impact of past history and contemporary structure on the patterns of anthropometric variation among 31 counties in Ireland (made up of the two nations of the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland). Data for 17 anthropometric measures and parent-offspring migration on 7,214 adult Irish males were taken from the large data set originally collected by Dupertuis and Dawson in the mid-1930s (Hooton et al., 1955). Patterns of genetic similarity among 31 counties were assessed using R matrix methods that allow estimation of minimum genetic distances. These distances were compared to distances reflecting history, geography, and migration using matrix permutation methods. The results indicate that among-group variation in Ireland reflects past population history to a much greater extent than contemporary patterns of migration and population size. The midland counties are distinct from other populations, and their history suggests greater genetic input from early Viking invasions. A second major pattern in biological variation is a longitudinal gradient separating western and eastern counties. This gradient appears related to patterns of early settlement and/or a concentration in the east of later immigrants, particularly from England. Comparison of regional means with published data for several other European nations confirms these hypotheses. © 1995 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
EFFECTS OF HUMOROUS ILLUSTRATIONS IN COLLEGE TEXTBOOKS

Written educational selections and cartoons drawn to illustrate different educational points were arranged to effect a factorial variation in (1) level of difficulty of educational material (easy, difficult) and (2) amount of humor (no humor, moderate humor, extensive humor). Students read one version, evaluated it on a number of dimensions, and were tested over the material. Pictorial humorous illustrations were found to have no effect on information acquisition and on motivation, positive effects on appeal, and negative effects on persuasibility.
Exercise-induced cardiac arrest in a sickle cell trait-positive Air Force recruit: a case report.

ABSTRACT In October 2011, a sickle cell trait (SCT)-positive Air Force recruit collapsed and died immediately following his physical fitness test. The cause of death was reported to be a cardiac dysrhythmia secondary to an acute sickling crisis. Although it is well known that SCT-positive individuals have a significant risk of exercise-related death (ERD), this case is notable in that none of the commonly cited risk factors were present, including exertional heat injury, dehydration, training at altitude, and rhabdomyolysis. Our findings challenge the commonly held assertion exertional heat illness is the fundamental underlying etiology in these cases, and that the current Department of Defense's policy on SCT screening is ineffective at mitigating the risk of ERD in SCT-positive recruits. Furthermore, we argue that without a clearer understanding of the precise risk factors for ERD in this population, screening programs may actually shift excessive health risks onto those without SCT.
The Legacy of Destructive Snow Goose Foraging on Supratidal Marsh Habitat in the Hudson Bay Lowlands

Abstract Ecological succession and climate change are pushing tundra as well as Arctic and subarctic lowland plant communities toward increased woody vegetation cover. However, areas along the Hudson Bay Lowlands that are over-grazed by hyper-abundant lesser snow geese are experiencing drastic losses of grass, sedge, and woody cover. We assessed longterm changes in proportional ground cover and habitat patch characteristic at a subarctic supratidal marsh that was largely vacated by breeding snow geese over a decade ago. We found no evidence of habitat recovery. Rather, snow geese leave a legacy on the land that propagates degradation of habitat long after their direct removal of vegetation through foraging. Over a 35 year period, we documented a 46% reduction in graminoid cover and an 84% reduction in shrub cover, which led to smaller and more isolated patches of shrubs that many avian species depend upon for foraging and nesting. Recent experimental goose exclosures suggest that recovery of degraded habi...
Integrating the Data Encryption Standard into Computer Networks

The NBS Data Encryption Standard may be integrated into computer networks to protect personal (nonshared) files, to communicate securely both on- and off-line with local and remote users, to protect against key substitution, to authenticate system users, to authenticate data, and to provide digital signatures using a nonpublic key encryption algorithm. Key notarization facilities give users the capability of exercising a set of commands for key management as well as for data encryption functions. The facilities perform notarization which, upon encryption, seals a key or password with the identities of the transmitter and intended receiver. Thus, in order to decrypt a message, the receiver must authenticate himself and supply the correct identity of the transmitter. This feature eliminates the threat of key substitution which must be protected against to attain a high level of security.
Physics overview of screen-film radiography.

The main components of the imaging system are the x-ray source, patient, image receptor (here, a screen-film system), processor, view box, and observer. The x-ray tube produces a beam of x rays, characterized by its spatial and energy distributions. The characteristics of the patient being radiographed--that is, the differential in attenuation of the x-ray beam among various structures within the patient (or subject contrast)--should exert the greatest influence on the final image. After passing through the patient, the x-ray beam bears the imprint of the attenuation processes (ie, absorption and scatter of photons) that took place within the patient. Subject contrast may be defined in terms of the ratio of the energy carried to the image receptor in two different locations. The number of x rays needed at the image receptor to produce the image and the radiation dose to the patient can be reduced by using an intensifying screen. The response of a screen-film system to x-ray exposure may be predicted in ad...
To open or not to open: that remains the question.

This editorial refers to "DECOPI (DEsobstruction COronaire en Post-Infarctus): a randomized multi-centre trial of occluded artery angioplasty after acute myocardial infarction" †; by P.G. Steg et al. on page 2187 The benefit of prompt reperfusion for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) using either mechanical or pharmacologic modalities has been convincingly demonstrated. Successful reperfusion salvages myocardium, reduces infarct size, improves left ventricular function (although not uniformly so), and subsequently leads to better survival. This benefit is critically time-dependent within the first three hours after symptom-onset, with sustained but lesser degrees of benefit in the 3–12 h window after symptom-onset.1,2 The benefit of reperfusion in the 12–24 h period after symptom-onset is less pronounced, but likely to be beneficial in patients with signs or symptoms of ongoing ischaemia,3 and likely holds true even after 24 h in such patients. If all eligible patients with STEMI received prompt and durable reperfusion therapy, a debate over the late revascularization of occluded arteries would be moot. However, in reality, many eligible patients with STEMI do not receive primary reperfusion therapy; additionally, thrombolysis, the most widely available reperfusion modality, is often associated with significant residual stenosis, re-occlusion and/or re-infarction even among patients in whom successful reperfusion is achieved initially. Importantly, sustained late patency of the infarct-related artery (IRA) is required for persistent benefit; subsequent re-occlusion of a reperfused IRA is associated with worse outcome than if the IRA remains patent.4 This realization, along with the 'open artery concept', which postulates potential late benefits on the electrical, mechanical, and ischaemic milieu, independent from the time-dependent issue of initial myocardial salvage, has sustained interest in the strategy of angiography followed by revascularization in asymptomatic post-MI patients with occluded IRAs. Although experimental studies have been quite persuasive regarding the late benefits of an open IRA, a … * Correspondence to: Dr. Verghese Mathew, Associate Professor of Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Gonda 5S, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA. Tel.: +1 507 538 1469; fax: +1 507 266 9142 (E-mail: mathew.verghese{at}mayo.edu).
Financial Constraints and U.S. Recessions: How Constrained Firms Invest Differently

In this study I utilize existing literature to identify financially constrained firms based on asset size and measure their investment behavior over the course of six U.S. recessions. I utilize a time measurement method to separate the distinct time periods that lead into a recession, contain the NBER (Note 1) peak, as well as the year after. I find that constrained firms have a significantly larger negative change in their fixed investment during the year leading into a NBER Peak as well as the year that contains the NBER Peak. I separate the most recent Great Recession to capture any unique differences in how firms responded to the economic downturn of 2007. I find that constrained firms had no significantly different investment behavior during the recession of 2007 compared to unconstrained firms, but the sample as a whole increased investment spending while coming out of the recession when compared to the previous five. There is nothing uniquely different with how constrained firms behaved during the year prior to, during the peak, and the year following the peak of 2007.
β-Neurexins Control Neural Circuits by Regulating Synaptic Endocannabinoid Signaling

α- and β-neurexins are presynaptic cell-adhesion molecules implicated in autism and schizophrenia. We find that, although β-neurexins are expressed at much lower levels than α-neurexins, conditional knockout of β-neurexins with continued expression of α-neurexins dramatically decreased neurotransmitter release at excitatory synapses in cultured cortical neurons. The β-neurexin knockout phenotype was attenuated by CB1-receptor inhibition, which blocks presynaptic endocannabinoid signaling, or by 2-arachidonoylglycerol synthesis inhibition, which impairs postsynaptic endocannabinoid release. In synapses formed by CA1-region pyramidal neurons onto burst-firing subiculum neurons, presynaptic in vivo knockout of β-neurexins aggravated endocannabinoid-mediated inhibition of synaptic transmission and blocked LTP; presynaptic CB1-receptor antagonists or postsynaptic 2-arachidonoylglycerol synthesis inhibition again reversed this block. Moreover, conditional knockout of β-neurexins in CA1-region neurons impaired contextual fear memories. Thus, our data suggest that presynaptic β-neurexins control synaptic strength in excitatory synapses by regulating postsynaptic 2-arachidonoylglycerol synthesis, revealing an unexpected role for β-neurexins in the endocannabinoid-dependent regulation of neural circuits.
Notes on n-Dimensional System Theory

This paper makes three observations with regard to several issues of a fundamental nature that apparently must arise in any general theory of linear n-dimensional systems. It is shown, by means of three specific interrelated counterexamples, that certain decomposition techniques which have proven to be basic for n = 1 and 2 are no longer applicable for n \geqslant 3 . In fact, for n \geqslant 3 , at least three equally meaningful but inequivalent notions of polynomial coprimeness emerge, namely, zerocoprimeness (ZC), minor-coprimeness (MC), and factor-coprimeness (FC). Theorems I and 3 clarify the differences (and similarities) between these concepts, and Theorem 2 gives the ZC and MC properties a useful system formulation. (Unfortunately, FC, which in our opinion is destined to play a major role, has thus far eluded the same kind of characterization.) Theorem 4 reveals that the structure of 2-variable elementary polynomial matrices is completely captured by the ZC concept. However, there is reason to believe that ZC is insufficient for n \geqslant 3 but a counterexample is not at hand. The matter is therefore unresolved.
Towards a New Theory of Scientific Inquiry

An instructive model for the philosopher interested in scientific method is a novel entitled Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance. The narrator (who is a dropout from Mortimer Adler’s program at the University of Chicago) stresses the importance of good external and internal working conditions: Loud music is distracting; you will need good light and room to lay out your tools; if you are feeling impatient, knock off for the day — or at the very least, don’t attempt a sensitive job; try to remain flexible in your diagnosis of what is wrong; investigate various alternatives in a systematic way.
Mandibular fibular graft reconstruction with CAD/CAM technology: A clinical report and literature review

This clinical report describes the treatment of a partially dentate patient who presented with dental implants placed in a reconstructed fibula graft in the mandible. A complete mouth rehabilitation with a maxillary complete denture and a mandibular implant-supported fixed complete denture was fabricated with computer-aided design and computer-aided machining technology.
Does allostatic load calculation method matter? Evaluation of different methods and individual biomarkers functioning by race/ethnicity and educational level.

Objectives Using nationally representative data for adults of age 25 years and older from four waves of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), collected from 2003 through 2010, this study examines differences in individual health markers used to calculate allostatic load, with particular attention given to stratification by race/ethnicity and educational level. Methods Factor analysis with maximum likelihood estimation was used. Fisher's r to z transformation test was used to determine whether or not observed differences in factor loadings were statistically significant. Results The findings reveal the unidimensionality of the concept of allostatic load and the underlying differences in associations between individual biomarkers and summary measures of allostatic load. Additionally, metabolic processes tend to be the most important predictor of allostatic load for all adults; however, inflammatory measures are more important in determining allostatic load scores for non-Hispanic blacks compared to non-Hispanic whites and for adults with less than a college education compared to adults with some college or a college degree. Conclusions These findings highlight the continued importance of studying the concept of “weathering” or allostatic load at the population level and need to better understand how population groups facing exclusion from economic, social, and political power may internalize this position which may cause early health deterioration and ultimate mortality chance through different expression of health insults and premature aging. Am. J. Hum. Biol., 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Automatic Detection of Mind Wandering During Reading Using Gaze and Physiology

Mind wandering (MW) entails an involuntary shift in attention from task-related thoughts to task-unrelated thoughts, and has been shown to have detrimental effects on performance in a number of contexts. This paper proposes an automated multimodal detector of MW using eye gaze and physiology (skin conductance and skin temperature) and aspects of the context (e.g., time on task, task difficulty). Data in the form of eye gaze and physiological signals were collected as 178 participants read four instructional texts from a computer interface. Participants periodically provided self-reports of MW in response to pseudorandom auditory probes during reading. Supervised machine learning models trained on features extracted from participants' gaze fixations, physiological signals, and contextual cues were used to detect pages where participants provided positive responses of MW to the auditory probes. Two methods of combining gaze and physiology features were explored. Feature level fusion entailed building a single model by combining feature vectors from individual modalities. Decision level fusion entailed building individual models for each modality and adjudicating amongst individual decisions. Feature level fusion resulted in an 11% improvement in classification accuracy over the best unimodal model, but there was no comparable improvement for decision level fusion. This was reflected by a small improvement in both precision and recall. An analysis of the features indicated that MW was associated with fewer and longer fixations and saccades, and a higher more deterministic skin temperature. Possible applications of the detector are discussed.
Understanding customers’ healthful food selection at restaurants: Roles of attitude, gender, and past experience

ABSTRACTThis study aimed to examine differences in attitudes and behavioral intentions toward low-fat or low-calorie menu items depending on customers’ gender and past experiences, as well as identify contributors for behavioral intentions. Independent t-test revealed that female customers and customers who had eaten healthful low-fat or low-calorie menu items in the past had more positive attitudes and behavioral intentions toward those menu items. Also, hierarchical regression analysis showed that attitudes toward taste and healthfulness, and past experience consuming those menu items were significant contributors in forming behavioral intentions. In particular, attitudes toward healthfulness had the greatest impact on behavioral intentions.
Study on Model of Coordinated Operation between Urban Rail and Bus Systems at Transfer Stations

The coordinated operations of urban rail and bus systems are the premise for an integrated mass transit system and are the solution to improve both operation efficiency and service level of the urban mass transit system.In this paper,the operation of urban rail and bus systems is optimized in order to minimize the total costs.The paper also discusses how to calculate the total costs,including the operation costs and passenger costs,and analyzes the transfer costs regarding four categories of transfer stations on the basis of the probability theory.The coordinated operation model is formulated finally.The conclusion suggests that the coordinated operation model could effectively decrease the total costs of the transit system and the transfer time of passengers.It also suggests that coordination within the non-peak hour is more effective than at the peak hour.
How to Cope with Slow Transistors in the Top-tier of Monolithic 3D ICs: Design Studies and CAD Solutions

In this paper we study the impact of low thermal budget process on design quality in monolithic 3D ICs (M3D). Specifically, we quantify how much the tier-to-tier transistor performance difference affects full-chip power and performance metrics in a foundry 14nm FinFET technology. Our study first shows that 5%, 10%, and 15% top-tier device degradation in a wire-dominated, timing-closed monolithic 3D IC design leads to 7%, 12%, and 18% full-chip timing violation, respectively. Next, we address this impact with our CAD solution named Tier-Aware M3D (TA-M3D) flow that identifies potential timing-critical paths and partitions them into the faster (bottom) tier to minimize the top-tier degradation impact. One unique challenge in timing closure in this case, is how to conduct buffering and sizing on the paths that lie entirely in the top or bottom-tier as well as those that span both tiers. Our approach handles all 3 types of paths carefully and closes timing under the given top-tier degradation assumption, while minimizing the total power consumption. Our enhanced monolithic 3D IC designs, even with 5%, 10%, and 15% slower transistors in the top-tier, still offers 26%, 24%, and 5% power savings over 2D IC, respectively. Our study also covers other types of circuits.
On-chip PMA labeling of foodborne pathogenic bacteria for viable qPCR and qLAMP detection

Propidium monoazide (PMA) is a membrane impermeable molecule that covalently bonds to double stranded DNA when exposed to light and inhibits the polymerase activity, thus enabling DNA amplification detection protocols that discriminate between viable and non-viable entities. Here, we present a microfluidic device for inexpensive, fast, and simple PMA labeling for viable qPCR and qLAMP assays. The three labeling stages of mixing, incubation, and cross-linking are completed within a microfluidic device that is designed with Tesla structures for passive microfluidic mixing, bubble trappers to improve flow uniformity, and a blue LED to cross-link the molecules. Our results show that the on-chip PMA labeling is equivalent to the standard manual protocols and prevents the replication of DNA from non-viable cells in amplification assays. However, the on-chip process is faster and simpler (30 min of hands-off work), has a reduced likelihood of false negatives, and it is less expensive because it only uses 1/20th of the reagents normally consumed in standard bench protocols. We used our microfluidic device to perform viable qPCR and qLAMP for the detection of S. typhi and E. coli O157. With this device, we are able to specifically detect viable bacteria, with a limit of detection of 7.6 × 103 and 1.1 × 103 CFU/mL for S. typhi and E. coli O157, respectively, while eliminating amplification from non-viable cells. Furthermore, we studied the effects of greater flow rates to expedite the labeling process and identified a maximum flow rate of 0.7 μL/min for complete labeling with the current design.
Race and Place: Exploring the Intersection of Inequity and Volunteerism Among Older Black and White Adults

ABSTRACTAlthough the historical impact of racial segregation and ongoing health and economic inequities between older Black and White adults is well documented, little is known about the relationships among race, individual- and neighborhood-resources, and formal volunteering in later life. This study explores this intersection. Individual-level data from 268 respondents aged 55+ were collected in the St. Louis metropolitan area through paper-based mail surveys. Objective neighborhood data were obtained at the zip code level from secondary sources and matched with respondents. Using exploratory factor analysis, we constructed a 14-item environmental scale with 3 neighborhood dimensions (economic, social, and built environment). Older Black adults had lower levels of education; had fewer financial assets; lived in neighborhoods with less economic resources and lower built environment scores; and fewer formally volunteered when compared to older White adults. Individual resources (financial assets, health) ...
Non-Radiographic Risk Factors Differentiating Atypical Lipomatous Tumors from Lipomas

Purpose: To determine non-radiographic risk factors differentiating atypical lipomatous tumors (ALTs) from lipomas. Methods: All patients with deep-seated lipomatous tumors of the extremities treated from January 2000 to October 2010 were retrospectively reviewed. Factors reviewed included age, gender, tumor location, size, histology, local recurrence, dedifferentiation and metastasis. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to evaluate the effects of patient characteristics on ALT status. Results: Ninety-four lipomas and 46 ALTs were included. Patients with an ALT were older (median: 60.5 years versus 55 years). Lipomas were evenly distributed between upper (48.9%) and lower extremities (51.1%), whereas ALTs predominately involved the lower extremities (91.3%). Median ALT size (22cm) was greater than lipomas (10cm), p<0.0001. One lipoma (1.04%) recurred at 77 months and 5 ALTs (10.9%) recurred at an average of 39 months (19 to 64 months). Two ALTs originally treated with wide resection recurred with a dedifferentiated component and were treated with wide re-excision and chemotherapy. No metastases or tumor-related deaths occurred in either group at the time of last follow-up. Patients older than 60-years, tumors greater than 10cm, or thigh location, were more likely to be diagnosed with an ALT (p<0.05). Conclusion: Lipomatous tumors were more likely to be atypical lipomatous tumors when the tumor was at least 10 cm in size, located in the thigh, or found in patients that were 60 years of age or older. These risk factors may be used to guide management and surveillance strategies when lipomatous tumors do not display characteristic radiographic features.
Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and risk of breast cancer.

Concern remains, and should feature in discussions with patients Although many providers and some patients know about the potential risks of pancreatic or thyroid cancer with use of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists,1 2 3 risk of breast cancer has also recently arisen as a potential risk with these drugs. The US Federal Drug Administration (FDA) and European Medicines Agency separately conducted pooled analyses of four weight management trials that investigated the use of 3.0 mg liraglutide (a type of GLP-1 receptor agonist).4 5 In these pooled analyses, 12 (0.29%) breast cancer events were reported in the liraglutide arms versus two (0.08%) events in the placebo arms. Given the rare occurrence of these events, it was unclear whether this difference was due to chance alone or a true increase in breast cancer risk. The LEADER trial (liraglutide effect and action in diabetes: evaluation of cardiovascular outcome results) compared liraglutide at a lower dose of …
Extracorporeal life support use in pediatric trauma: a review of the National Trauma Data Bank

Abstract Purpose As the role of extracorporeal life support (ECLS) continues to evolve in the adult and pediatric populations, smaller studies and case reports have described successful use of ECLS in specific groups of pediatric trauma patients. To further define the role of ECLS in pediatric trauma, we examined indications and outcomes for use of ECLS in injured children using a large national database. Methods All trauma patients ≤18years old were identified from the 2007 to 2011 National Trauma Data Bank. We collected patient demographics, mechanism of injury, injury severity, use of ECLS, and survival to discharge. Children undergoing ECLS were compared to those who did not undergo ECLS, using a 3:1 propensity matched analysis to compare outcomes between ECLS and non-ECLS patients with similar injury patterns. Results Of 589,895 pediatric trauma patients identified, 36 patients underwent ECLS. Within the ECLS cohort, 21/36 (58%) survived, and 10/36 (28%) were discharged directly home. Most ECLS patients were between 15 and 18years 20/36 (56%). Mechanisms of injury (MOI) resulting in ECLS use included: motor vehicle collision (MVC) 16/36 (44%), gunshot wound (GSW) 6/36 (17%), burns 6/36 (17%), and drowning/suffocation (D/S) 5/36 (14%). Among the ECLS cohort, survival varied by MOI from 75% in D/S to 56% in MVC and 33% in GSW and was 55% in patients with significant head injuries. Using propensity analysis for matched injury patterns, survival for ECLS and non-ECLS patients was similar (58% vs. 65%, p =0.61). Conclusions In the largest study to date of ECLS support in pediatric trauma patients, we found encouraging survival rates to discharge, comparable to patients not undergoing ECLS with similar injuries. These results support further use and focused research of ECLS in pediatric trauma, including drowning, burn, and MVC victims and those with significant head injuries. Level of evidence Level III; treatment study.
Primer on Microcephaly

Microcephaly can present in the newborn period, either at birth or postnatally. In large cohorts, genetic factors and perinatal brain damage secondary to maternal exposures and prenatally acquired infections are the leading causative factors. However, in up to ∼40% of children with microcephaly, no etiology is identified. Although many classifications exist, it is important to remember that both congenital microcephaly and postnatal-onset microcephaly can be due to genetic or “acquired” causes. Careful history and physical examination is the initial step in evaluating a neonate with microcephaly. Diagnostic evaluation should be tailored based on these findings. In all-comers with microcephaly, neuroimaging proves to have the highest diagnostic yield, with magnetic resonance imaging providing the highest sensitivity. Genetic testing has the next highest diagnostic yield, and if presentation does not suggest a specific genetic disorder, comparative genomic hybridization would be the recommended first-line genetic testing. Definitive treatment for microcephaly does not exist, but supportive treatment aimed at preventing further damage or mitigating untoward effects of existing comorbidities may be available. Overall prognosis relates to severity of disease, underlying diagnosis, and comorbid conditions identified. Zika virus is emerging as an infectious pathogen leading to congenital microcephaly. Given its potentially devastating effects, a low threshold of suspicion is warranted at this time for women presenting with a fever and rash during pregnancy with a personal history or sexual contact with a person who has a history of travel to affected regions, or with findings of microcephaly on prenatal ultrasonography.
Exploring health beliefs among Hispanic adults with prediabetes

Diabetes and prediabetes are increasing in prevalence, corresponding to epidemic rates of obesity. Hispanic adults with prediabetes are 1.7 times more likely than non-Hispanic whites to progress to diabetes. We set out to understand health beliefs of Hispanic adults and, with that knowledge, facilitate tailored messaging to promote patient activation and lifestyle change. Using the Risk Perception Survey for Developing Diabetes along with demographic and lifestyle intervention interest questions, a 34-question survey was mailed to a registry of Hispanic adults with a diagnosis of prediabetes and an HbA1c between 5.7 and 6.4% (N = 414). Despite more than three-quarters of respondents (n = 92; 77%) indicating they had prior knowledge of their diagnosis, overall diabetes risk knowledge was low. A significant difference in diabetes risk knowledge was found between groups stratified by education level. High scores in personal control and worry were reported. Respondents overwhelmingly reported interest in exercise (n = 92; 77%) and healthy eating interventions (n = 60; 50%) over technology-based interventions. High levels of worry and personal control, combined with low to intermediate levels of risk knowledge, indicate an opportunity for education and activation in this community. Healthy eating and exercise programs are possible interventions that may slow the progression from prediabetes to diabetes.
Improving and Sustaining Elementary Teachers’ Science Teaching Perceptions and Process Skills: A Postintervention Study

ABSTRACTFew research studies have examined postintervention data from professional development interventions on science teaching and learning. Given the limited research, it is recommended that more studies examine the lasting effects of science professional development on teachers and students. The purpose of this current study was to examine the sustained changes in teachers’ science teaching perceptions and process skills as a result of 2 years of an ongoing, embedded science professional development intervention. In this randomized controlled trial,experimental teachers participated in 2 types of professional development across 2 years: (a) Summer institutes (60 hr across 2 years) provided training on problem-based science curriculum units, inquiry-based instruction, classroom management, and technology use in the classroom; and (b) coaching (60 hr across 2 years) provided teachers with assistance in establishing an investigative classroom and implementing the science curriculum. Both experimental and...
The Cs Robinson–Ford Merger

A previously employed equity trader at a prominent New York investment bank has returned as an MBA summer intern. Her primary responsibility is to assist the heads of the HR department with the integration of a recently acquired California equity research firm. The case opens and ends with the intern trying to manage an irate head of security for a perceived breach of security caused by differences in New York and California labor laws while in between other issues of varying urgency are raised. This case lets students approach real-time post-merger integration issues from both a technical and human relations point of view. Key issues addressed in the case include assembling the "right" integration team, resolving title- and salary-mapping differences, and managing a significant cultural shift. Excerpt UVA-BP-0481 Rev. March 30, 2009 THE CS ROBINSON–FORD MERGER “What da hell is going on over dere? Don't you people know dat dis country is in a security crisis, and I don't need no HR person muddying up my waters? Just get da damn fingerprinting and drug testing done!” Then Donny Smith, executive director of firm security, slammed down the phone. Jacqueline Burgess sat holding the handset with Smith's Brooklyn accent ringing in her ears and wondered what to do. Burgess was a summer associate in the Human Resources department at Chaffee, Scott, and Robinson (CS Robinson), a prominent New York City investment bank. CS Robinson had recently completed the acquisition of Ford, Inc., and Burgess had been in her job for only five weeks. She wanted to hand over this security problem to her immediate supervisor, but she knew that she had inadvertently created the situation and wanted to fix it. The Investment-Banking Industry By 2004, the U.S. investment-banking industry had gone through significant changes. The technology boom of the 1990s had attracted the best talent coming out of universities. A wave of consolidations during the boom had left the investment-banking industry with fewer players but with larger portfolios of services. With banks able to service a much broader range of client needs, client demands increased, and the banks that had avoided growth through consolidation had to work harder to compete. . . .