cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A hybrid FPGA/Tilera compute element for autonomous hazard detection and navigation

To increase safety for future missions landing on other planetary or lunar bodies, the Autonomous Landing and Hazard Avoidance Technology (ALHAT) program is developing an integrated sensor for autonomous surface analysis and hazard determination. The ALHAT Hazard Detection System (HDS) consists of a Flash LIDAR for measuring the topography of the landing site, a gimbal to scan across the terrain, and an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), along with terrain analysis algorithms to identify the landing site and the local hazards. An FPGA and Manycore processor system was developed to interface all the devices in the HDS, to provide high-resolution timing to accurately measure system state, and to run the surface analysis algorithms quickly and efficiently. In this paper, we will describe how we integrated COTS components such as an FPGA evaluation board, a TILExpress64, and multi-threaded/multi-core aware software to build the HDS Compute Element (HDSCE). The ALHAT program is also working with the NASA Morpheus Project and has integrated the HDS as a sensor on the Morpheus Lander. This paper will also describe how the HDS is integrated with the Morpheus lander and the results of the initial test flights with the HDS installed. We will also describe future improvements to the HDSCE.
How To Make Yourself Invisible

This PDF file contains the editorial “How To Make Yourself Invisible” for OE Vol. 42 Issue 07
Adaptive particle allocation in iterated sequential Monte Carlo via approximating meta-models

Sequential Monte Carlo (SMC) filters (also known as particle filters) are widely used in the analysis of non-linear and non-Gaussian time series models in diverse application areas such as engineering, finance, and epidemiology. When a time series contains an observation that is very unlikely given the previous observations, evaluation of its conditional log likelihood by SMC can suffer from high variance. The presence of one or more such observations can result in poor Monte Carlo estimate of the overall likelihood. In this article, we develop a novel strategy of particle allocation for off-line iterated SMC based filters, in order to reduce the overall variance of the likelihood estimate to enable efficient computation. The complications arising from the intractability of the actual SMC variance is handled via an approximating meta-model, in which we model the SMC errors in the evaluation of conditional log likelihood of the observations as an autoregressive process. We demonstrate numerical results on both simulated and real data sets where adaptive particle allocation results in 54 % lower overall variance over the naive equal allocation of particles at all time points in simulations and 53 % lower variance on a real time series model of epidemic malaria transmission. The approximating model approach presented in this article is novel in the context of SMC and offers a computationally attractive procedure for practical analysis of a broad class of time series models.
Indefinite Objects of Higher Order

The previous essay outlines an account of indeterminate identity, and offers some preliminary illustrations of its application to puzzles about identity through time. We wish now to consider an application to a particular, rigorously formulated theory. The theory of sets is especially apt for this role, since it brings into prominence the Quinean theme of identity conditions: “No entity without identity.” At the same time, our discussion will confront what I will call the Basic Objection to many-valued theories, also due to Quine: that they are simply too messy.1
Reconstruction of shapes of 3D symmetric objects by using planarity and compactness constraints

We present a new algorithm for reconstructing 3D shapes. The algorithm takes one 2D image of a 3D shape and reconstructs the 3D shape by applying a priori constraints: symmetry, planarity and compactness. The shape is reconstructed without using information about the surfaces, such as shading, texture, binocular disparity or motion. Performance of the algorithm is illustrated on symmetric polyhedra, but the algorithm can be applied to a very wide range of shapes. Psychophysical plausibility of the algorithm is discussed.
Trends in science coverage: a content analysis of three US newspapers

This paper describes a content analysis of science news reporting in three major daily newspapers, the New York Times, the Chicago Tribune, and the Washington Post, during the last three decades. I...
Defining and Understanding the Religious Philosophy of jihādī-Salafism and the Ideology of Boko Haram

AbstractThis article examines the deep epistemological and theological roots of the religious philosophy of jihādī-Salafism and its role in the construction of the ideology of Boko Haram. To achieve this, four aspects are considered: first, the core theological doctrines of jihādī-Salafism on the subject of takfīr and ḥukm bi-ghayri mā anzala Allāh; second, the sacred texts and Islamic scriptures that have been adroitly exploited to support the jihādī-Salafīs' idealization, theological legitimization and meta-justification for divinely sanctioned jihād; third, the ideologues of jihādī-Salafism, and how their readings of Islamic history and theology have provided a stamp of approval for the legitimization of jihād against the political rulers in the Muslim world; and fourth, an explanation of why the jihādī-Salafīs diverge from the interpretation of the quietist Salafīs despite their unified common understanding about following the model of the Prophet and his companions. These four aspects serve as a matr...
SPEC Kits: Compiled Information about Library Management Policies, Procedures, and Techniques

Editor's note: This review essay is the first of what is intended to be a recurring feature in the Reviews department, namely essays of a length sufficient to permit, as in this case, the collective or comparative treatment of a related body of works or extended thoughtful analysis of a particularly important work. Individuals interested in preparing such an essay or in suggesting the subject of a review essay should contact Reviews editor Anne R. Kenney at (607) 255-6875. The regular reviews that were scheduled for this issue have been deferred because of size considerations.
Physical Activity Capture Technology With Potential for Incorporation Into Closed-Loop Control for Type 1 Diabetes

Physical activity is an important determinant of glucose variability in type 1 diabetes (T1D). It has been incorporated as a nonglucose input into closed-loop control (CLC) protocols for T1D during the last 4 years mainly by 3 research groups in single center based controlled clinical trials involving a maximum of 18 subjects in any 1 study. Although physical activity data capture may have clinical benefit in patients with T1D by impacting cardiovascular fitness and optimal body weight achievement and maintenance, limited number of such studies have been conducted to date. Clinical trial registries provide information about a single small sample size 2 center prospective study incorporating physical activity data input to modulate closed-loop control in T1D that are seeking to build on prior studies. We expect an increase in such studies especially since the NIH has expanded support of this type of research with additional grants starting in the second half of 2015. Studies (1) involving patients with other disorders that have lasted 12 weeks or longer and tracked physical activity and (2) including both aerobic and resistance activity may offer insights about the user experience and device optimization even as single input CLC heads into real-world clinical trials over the next few years and nonglucose input is introduced as the next advance.
Orientierung zur Wissensrepräsentation

Seit einigen Jahren wird in weiten Bereichen der Informationsverarbeitung eine schnell wachsende Stromung sichtbar, die mit den BegrifFen „Wissensbasierte Systeme“ bzw. „Expertensysteme“ bezeichnet wird. Diese Stromung hat ihren Ursprung in der „Kunstlichen Intelligenz“. Inzwischen werden wissensbasierte Systeme von vielen Herstellern, Forschungs- und Beratungsinstitutionen und Benutzern in unterschiedlichen Branchen und Anwendungsgebieten untersucht, erprobt und zunehmend auch mit wirtschaftlichem Erfolg eingesetzt. Wissensreprasentation, ein charakteristisches Merkmal dieser Systeme, wird zunehmend zu einem zentralen Thema der Informationsverarbeitung.
“Boys Don’t Cry”—or Do They? Adult Attitudes Toward and Beliefs About Transgender Youth

The present survey study examined the attitudes of U.S. adults toward transgender children and adolescents, as well as their behavioral intentions, in two hypothetical scenarios involving gender variant youth. Participants recruited online (N = 281) reported generally favorable attitudes toward transgender minors, but expressed some hesitation to allow a transgender child to use the restroom aligned with their gender as opposed to their birth sex or to share a room with same gender peers on a school trip, possibly due to conflating gender identity with sexual orientation in these situations. Attitudes were less positive in respondents who reported a religious affiliation, conservative social political views, and stronger conformity to certain traditional gender norms—particularly in men. Even after controlling for these factors, stronger belief in environmental versus biological causes of transgender identity was linked to more negative attitudes. Participants’ behavioral intentions were driven partly by their attitudes and causal attributions, but also by their age and, at least for women, personal connections to the transgender community. We discuss implications for the discourse surrounding transgender youth and the need for educating the public on the development of gender identity as well as the difference between gender identity and sexual orientation.
Host-parasite relations and development of Elsinoë panici

Hyphae of Elsinoe panici Tiffany and Mathre penetrated between epidermal cells of Panicum virgatum L. and quickly formed stromata composed of darkly pigmented, firm, pseudoparenchymatous cells. Int...
ED-27CLINICAL CHARACTERISTICS AND LONG-TERM OUTCOME IN MOVEMENT DISORDER IN CHILDHOOD THALAMIC TUMORS

BACKGROUND: Clinical observations of children with thalamic tumors and secondary movement disorders (MD) suggest correlation between anatomical location and treatment modalities to severity of MD. METHODS: We conducted an IRB approved retrospective review of patients ≤ 18 years old with thalamic tumors and MD at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital from 1996-2013. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) was reviewed and thalamic nuclei involved with tumor and/or surgical site were documented. MD severity was rated with Karnofsky Performance Score (KPS); Extrapyramidal Symptom Rating Scale (ESRS), which scores 0 (absent) to 6 (extremely severe); and Clinical Global Impression of Severity for dystonia and dyskinesia (CGI-S), which scores 0 (absent) to 8 (extremely severe). RESULTS: We reviewed 83 patients with thalamic with 9 confirmed MD by neurological evaluation. Median age at tumor diagnosis was 7 years old (3 months-11 years), median age at MD onset was 7 years old (18 months-11 years). Types of MD found were postural tremor (7), ballismus (4), myoclonus (1), and athetosis (4). Median time to last follow-up was 3 years. 8 patients had onset of MD median of 1.5 months (0-4 months) time after surgical intervention. Initial median KPS was 80 (60-90) and at last follow-up was 80 (50-90). Initial median ESRS was 5 (3-8) and at last follow-up was 5 (0-5). Initial median CGI-S was 5 (3-6) and at last follow-up was 4 (0-6). Based on these severity scales, 2 patients showed no change, 1 patient worsened, 1 patient completely resolved, and 4 patients had improvement regardless of initial extent of surgery or number of nuclei involved. CONCLUSION: This retrospective analysis compares thalamic tumor anatomical locations and treatment intervention with respect to movement disorder clinical characteristics and outcomes. Extent of location and surgical intervention did not correlate to severity and will be included in final presentation.
Computation-guided discovery of influenza endonuclease inhibitors.

Influenza is a global human health threat, and there is an immediate need for new antiviral therapies to circumvent the limitations of vaccination and current small molecule therapies. During viral transcription, influenza incorporates the 5′-end of the host cell’s mRNA in a process that requires the influenza endonuclease. On the basis of recently published endonuclease crystallized structures, a three-dimensional pharmacophore was developed and used to virtually screen 450,000 compounds for influenza endonuclease inhibitors. Of 264 compounds tested in a FRET-based endonuclease-inhibition assay, 16 inhibitors (IC50 < 50 μM) that span 5 molecular classes novel to this endonuclease were found (6.1% hit rate). To determine cytotoxicity and antiviral activity, subsequent cellular assays were performed. Two compounds suppress viral replication with negligible cell toxicity.
Journeying Together: Three Voices on the Process of Making the Invisible Visible

SUMMARY Three women faculty from different disciplines assert the necessity of initiating a process to confront silence and create voice in order to address heterosexism and homophobia in the classroom. One advocates for the feminist construct of a consciously positional and political voice to improve students' sensitivity to multiculturalism in regard to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered people (LGBT). Another proposes a process of locating sexual orientation in the wider issues of sexuality and gender constructions, in order to form different assumptions and starting points. A third one challenges faculty members and students to accept that recognizing their own heterosexism and homophobia is the first step in the process of confronting and transforming what they fear.
Uncertainties associated with the use of optically stimulated luminescence in personal dosimetry

This study investigates several sources of uncertainty associated with the application of optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) to personal dosimetry. A commercial OSL system based on Al(2)O(3):C was used for this study. First, it is demonstrated that the concept of repeated evaluation (readout) of the same dosemeter, often referred to as 're-analysis', can introduce uncertainty in the re-estimated dose. This uncertainty is associated with the fact that the re-analysis process depletes some of the populated traps, resulting in a continuous decrease of the OSL signal with each repeated reading. Furthermore, the rate of depletion may be dose-dependent. Second, it is shown that the previously reported light-induced fading in this system is the result of light leaks through miniature openings in the dosemeter badge.
Abstract LB-384: BARX1, CYGB, and other epigenetic targets of gastric cancer

Gastric cancer (GC), a disease with a very poor prognosis, is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Although few studies have identified genetic and epigenetic alterations to be involved in gastric carcinogenesis, the molecular pathogenesis of this disease remains incompletely understood, and largely unexplored. With an aim to understand, and identify the molecular pathways important in the pathogenesis of GC, and to identify targets for its detection and therapy, we conducted a pilot microarray-based genome-wide search for identification of epigenetic targets in GC. This study identified 11 prioritized targets of aberrant epigenetic inactivation in gastric neoplasia (GN), including the tight junction protein claudin-11 (CLDN11), the transcription factor BarH-like homeobox (BARX1), basonuclin1 (BNC1), Coagulation factor C homolog (COCH), filamin C gamma (FLNC), cytoglobin B (CYGB), glutamine-fructose-6-phospahe-transaminase-2 (GFPT2), heat-shock-70 kDa protein-6 (HSPA6), snail homolog 1(SNAL1), skin calmodulin-related factor (SCARF), and tumor protein p53 binding protein 2 (TP53BP2). Our initial validations of these targets, particularly, CLDN11, BARX1 and CYGB confirmed these genes to be hypermethylated in their promoter region in gastric cancer cell lines and patient specimens, and their mRNA expression levels to be reduced in gastric cancer tissues and cell lines. More interestingly, our recent preliminary studies demonstrate that overexpression of the BARX1, in GC cells which lack its endogenous expression led to dramatic phenotypic changes in these transfected cells. Moreover, viable cell count was reduced in BARX1 transfected cells. BARX1 is a transcription factor which is known to be involved in the differentiation of embryonic endoderm into stomach. This study for the first time, identifies a potential role of BARX1 in gastric carcinogenesis. Further, large-scale validation studies are underway to confirm the role of BARX1 and other genes as potential targets for GC detection and therapy. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr LB-384. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-LB-384
Maternal Dietary Patterns are Associated with Lower Levels of Cardiometabolic Markers during Pregnancy.

Background Elevated levels of cardiometabolic markers are characteristic of normal pregnancy, however, insulin resistance and increased glucose, triglyceride, and cholesterol levels can adversely influence maternal and child health. Diet is a modifiable behaviour that could have significant impact on maternal cardiometabolic levels during pregnancy. We investigated the association between dietary patterns and cardiometabolic markers (glucose, insulin, insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), triglycerides, and cholesterol) during pregnancy. Methods Data from the Pregnancy, Infection, and Nutrition prospective cohort study (2000–05) was used (n = 513). Diet was assessed using a food frequency questionnaire. Dietary patterns were derived using latent class analysis (LCA) and the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet. Linear regression was used to examine the dietary patterns–cardiometabolic markers association during pregnancy. Results Three dietary patterns evolved from the LCA characterised by high intakes of: (1) hamburgers, hot dogs, bacon, French fries, fried chicken, white bread, and soft drinks; (2) some vegetables, fruit juice, refined grains, mixed dishes, processed meat, and empty calorie foods; and (3) fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy, breakfast bars, and water. After adjustment for potential confounders including prepregnancy body mass index, a diet consistent with Latent Class 3 was negatively associated with maternal insulin (μU/mL: β = −0.12; 95% CI −0.23, −0.01) and HOMA-IR (β = −0.13; 95% CI −0.25, −0.00). Additionally, DASH scores within Tertile 3 (higher dietary quality) were also negatively associated with maternal triglycerides (mg/dL). Conclusions The study findings suggest an association between maternal dietary patterns and several cardiometabolic markers during pregnancy.
Dietary fiber and cancer prevention.

Epidemiologic, laboratory, and clinical metabolic research suggest that cancer risk can be reduced by a high intake of fiber-containing foods. Although there have been numerous reviews on the association between dietary fiber and colon cancer, more recent studies have also suggested an association with other gastrointestinal cancers, as well as cancers of the breast, ovary, and endometrium. This article focuses on studies since 1980 for both colon and other cancers.
Acceptability of a Guided Imagery Intervention for Persons Undergoing a Total Knee Replacement.

BACKGROUND Guided imagery (GI) has been recommended as a mind-body therapy for pain relief following orthopaedic surgery, but little is known about the acceptability of the intervention. PURPOSE Describe the perceptions of patients undergoing total knee replacement (TKR) surgery regarding the acceptability of a customized GI intervention to promote TKR outcomes. METHODS Narrative and survey data collected during a randomized controlled trial of the GI intervention were analyzed to assess the acceptability of the intervention. RESULTS Most participants were satisfied with and actively engaged in the intervention, and they perceived it to be helpful. For the smaller group of participants who did not find the intervention to be acceptable, reasons for dissatisfaction and barriers to engagement were identified. CONCLUSIONS Guided imagery is an acceptable intervention for many persons undergoing TKR surgery. The results of this study can provide information to further develop a targeted and customized GI intervention for this population.
REFLECTION, REFRACTION, AND GEOMETRIC OPTICS

Publisher Summary Today, optics is for the third time at one of the frontiers of science—swept there by laser beams and by the integration of solid-state physics and optical physics. Many optical innovations also affect the daily lives of humans even though they are not aware of them. This chapter develops the basic aspects of optics. It also discusses Huygens' Principle. This principle is used to develop geometric optics, which by and large is concerned with the image-forming properties of mirrors and lenses. The basic concept in geometric optics is that of a light ray—a narrow stream of radiation that moves along a well-defined path. The name geometric optics stems from the fact that the optics of light rays involves only geometric considerations. There are no wave equations or electromagnetic field vectors to contend with. In the chapter, geometric optics is used to explain the formation of rainbows, as well as to examine various optical aspects of the human eye, the magnifying glass, the microscope, and the telescope.
Time to extinction in deteriorating environments

Habitat degradation and destruction are the predominant drivers of population extinction, but there is little theory to guide the analysis of population viability in deteriorating environments. To address this gap, we investigated extinction times in time-varying, demographically stochastic versions of the logistic model for population dynamics. A property of these models is the “extinction delay,” a quantitative measure of the time lag in extinction created by species-specific extinction debt. For completeness, three models were constructed to represent the different demographic routes by which deterioration may affect population dynamics. Numerical analysis for two notional life histories indicated that the demographic response to environmental deterioration had a large effect on extinction delay, but a third analysis showed that the trajectory of the decline in carrying capacity ultimately characterized its magnitude. A concave decline in carrying capacity produced a large extinction delay while a small delay occurred with a convex decline. Furthermore, our results explore the non-monotonicity of extinction debt with respect to the speed of deterioration. A peak is present at low levels of deterioration, and the height of the peak and the asymptote of delay are affected by both life history parameterizations and the rate of change of the carrying capacity. The results suggest that population viability analyses must consider not only environmental deterioration, but also the effects of deterioration on the trajectory of the decline in carrying capacity.
Retreating into Trauma: The Fragebogen, Denazification, and Victimhood in Postwar Germany

In the months that immediately followed the collapse of the National Socialist regime, amid the postwar setting of unprecedented death and destruction, a denazification questionnaire, or Fragebogen, was distributed by the four Allied military governments to millions of German civilians and returning soldiers.1 This two- to-six-page survey required the respondent to provide detailed information about their past political affiliations and activities and had the purpose of purging German society of National Socialist and militarist elements. The Fragebogen was a cornerstone document of denazification; while pursuing Allied political objectives, it also had major psychological and sociological impacts on the predominantly devastated population.
Southwest Plateaus and Plains Range and Cotton Region and Southwestern Prairies Cotton and Forage Region: LRRs I and J

The land resource regions (LRRs) I and J encompass much of the southern transition from the forested east to the prairie west. In so doing, the transition is made from udic, to ustic, and in places aridic moisture regimes. Predominant soil orders include Alfisols, Mollisols, and Vertisols. Variation in soil orders is correlated to parent material and vegetation. Mechanisms behind the correlation of Alfisols with oak savannah and in general tree covered versus prairie landscapes as well as the formation of petrocalcic horizons are discussed. Distinctions between different subregions (Major Land Resource Areas) are emphasized, as well as distinctions with some neighboring LRRs.
Molecular and cellular fundamentals of aerobic cometabolism of trichloroethylene.

Cometabolism recognizes that microorganisms can transform non-growth-supporting substrates. The term "cometabolism" was first introduced over 30 years ago and has been redefined, criticized, and used widely ever since. In this review we have examined the aerobic cometabolism of chlorinated solvents, with a particular emphasis on the cometabolism of trichloroethylene. Monooxygenases or dioxygenases with relaxed substrate ranges initiate these transformations. The physiological role of the oxygenases is to initiate the metabolism of growth-supporting substrates (e.g., methane, propane, butane, toluene, ethylene, and ammonia). Diverse enzymes catalyze these oxidative reactions with chlorinated solvents. Synthesis of most of these enzymes is induced by the presence of the growth-supporting substrate and is largely regulated at the level of gene transcription. The genes that code for a given oxygenase are usually clustered together in a single operon and often share homology with counterparts that code for the subunits of related oxygenases in other bacteria. During cometabolism the growth-supporting and non-growth-supporting substrates can both bind to the oxygenase. Transformation of chlorinated solvents by these enzymes presents the cell with a new set of compounds. Some of these compounds are toxic to the cells, others are stable products that are expelled from the cell, and in a few cases the cells utilize the products. The combined effects of cometabolism can have a profound influence on a cell.
We’re Just Playing

Purpose. The purpose of this study was to explored the use of a tabletop role-playing game in middle school ELA classrooms to examine students’ (n=36) abilities to interact with and make meaning from a traditional classroom text (Richard Connell’s “The Most Dangerous Game”).Background.Gaming continues to soar in popularity, both inside and outside of schools. As such, it is important to continue looking for pedagogically beneficial ways to incorporate gaming into classroom spaces, specifically English Language Arts and Literacy classrooms.Aim. In this article, we describe the game used for this study was modified from the Pathfinder system and designed to pair with Connell’s short story. We also discuss our qualitative approach to data analysis, and the three themes that emerged. First, students made gaming decisions based on their knowledge of the story. Second, students experienced the narrative through the lens of their characters. And third, students engaged in meaningful collaboration throughout game...
Memory Work: The Second Generation

In Memory Work: The Second Generation, Nina Fischer, a teaching fellow in Jewish studies and religious studies at the University of Edinburgh, proposes that memory work, or the deliberate quest to ...
Unexplored territory in the AFM force curve contains nanomechanics information

We demonstrate the existence of a previously unknown damped oscillating signal just after the point when an atomic force microscope tip hits a sample surface. This oscillating signal is below the noise in a single force-displacement measurement. Autocorrelating 20 measurements using the snap to contact feature as the reference mark allows the oscillation to be clearly visible above the noise. We show that the amplitude of the signal’s oscillation is largely insensitive to the speed with which the sample is brought toward the tip proving that the impulse that generates the signal comes primarily from the snap-to-contact event. This speed-independence sets a lower limit on how softly a sample may be interrogated when measuring mechanical properties in the surface region. Collection and analysis of this damped oscillating signal eliminates the need for standard low bandwidth lock-in based techniques to determine time dependent surface mechanical properties. This allows conventional atomic force microscopes to make a single pass of force collection over a surface and, after post-processing, yield the full time dependent mechanical behavior of the surface. To demonstrate a practical use of the oscillations, we produce images of a polystyrene/polyethylene sample where the contrast mechanisms are stiffness and viscosity.
Parallel Asynchronous Distributed-Memory Maximal Independent Set Algorithm with Work Ordering

The maximal independent set (MIS) graph problem arises in many applications such as computer vision, information theory, molecular biology, and process scheduling. The growing scale of graph data suggests the use of distributed memory hardware as a cost-effective approach to providing necessary compute and memory resources. Existing distributed memory parallel MIS algorithms rely on synchronous communication and use techniques such as subgraph computations. In this paper, we present an asynchronous distributed-memory parallel graph algorithm that relies on a virtual directed acyclic graph (DAG) that is created during the algorithm execution. We introduce two additional algorithms that save computations by ordering generated work. The first algorithm applies ordering globally to reduce computations, and the second algorithm applies ordering locally at the level of threads to minimize the synchronization overhead. We use two different implementations of Luby's algorithm variants as baseline to compare the performance of the presented algorithms: (1) vertex-centric Luby A and Luby B implementations, and (2) the CombBLAS linear-algebra Luby A implementation. Results show that proposed algorithms outperform both implementations of Luby algorithms, especially in distributed execution. Furthermore, we show that for low- diameter graphs the algorithm that applies global ordering scales better than other algorithms and for high diameter graphs the original asynchronous algorithm and thread-level ordering algorithm show better performance.
Numerical Solution for Accurate Bondwire Modeling

This paper presents a method of modeling bondwires of arbitrary shapes using lumped element models. As an example, a semi-circular multi-wire configuration is presented. Effects of wire angles and dielectric thicknesses are taken into account. A fixture containing three- and five-wire networks is fabricated, assembled, and tested with a vector network analyzer which extracts the S-parameters of each two-port network. These measurements are compared to the proposed model and two benchmark models from a widely used design software package. As a comparison, mean absolute error and root mean square error are used to analyze results showing that the proposed model is better at tracking the measured physical data compared to the two benchmark models. Although semicircular bondwires is presented as an example, any geometry is supported using the proposed model. As an illustration of the easy-use of this proposed bondwire model in a system design, the performance of a high-frequency amplifier is given with and without the bondwire model. The results clearly demonstrate the compatibility of the model with widely used circuit simulators and the importance of including the effects of bondwires when determining circuit performance.
Modelling and simulation of particle-particle interaction in a magnetophoretic bio-separation chip

A Lagrangian particle trajectory model is developed to predict the interaction between cell-bead particle complexes and to track their trajectories in a magnetophoretic bio-separation chip. Magnetic flux gradients are simulated in the OpenFOAM CFD software and imported into MATLAB to obtain the trapping lengths and trajectories of the particles. A connector vector is introduced to calculate the interaction force between cell-bead complexes as they flow through a microfluidic device. The interaction force calculations are performed for cases where the connector vector is parallel, perpendicular, and at an angle of 45° with the applied magnetic field. The trajectories of the particles are simulated by solving a system of eight ordinary differential equations using a fourth order Runge-Kutta method. The model is then used to study the effects of geometric positions and angles of the connector vector between the particles as well as the cell size, number of beads per cell, and flow rate on the interaction for...
Compositional and Structural Analysis of Silica Gel Fractions from Municipal Waste Pyrolysis Oils

Hydrocarbon-rich pyrolysis oils produced from landfill waste and recycled plastics are potential sources for fuels and chemicals. It is well established that feedstock composition significantly affects pyrolysis oil composition and, hence, its potential uses. For example, plastics waste pyrolysis oils contain a high concentration of hydrocarbons, whereas biomass pyrolysis oils have high oxygen content. Previous studies have shown that the addition of plastics to a biomass feedstock increases the hydrocarbon content; however, a detailed analysis of hydrocarbons and polar species from pyrolysis oils produced from “real world” mixed municipal waste materials has not yet been done. Here, the silica gel fractions from unsorted landfill waste and mixed recycled plastics pyrolysis oils are analyzed by two-dimensional gas chromatography (GC × GC), field ionization mass spectrometry (FI-MS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FT-ICR MS)...
Antimicrobial 1,3,4-trisubstituted-1,2,3-triazolium salts.

Abstract A series of 1,3,4-trisubstituted-1,2,3-triazolium bromide salts were prepared by efficient two-step sequences of azide-alkyne cycloaddition and benzylic substitution. The antimicrobial activity of each triazolium salt and correlating triazole precursor was evaluated using a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assay. MIC activities as low as 1 µM against Gram-positive bacteria, 8 µM against Gram-negative bacteria and 4 µM against fungi were observed for salt analogs, while neutral triazoles were inactive. Analogs representing selective and broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity were each identified. MIC structure-activity relationships observed within this motif indicate that the presence of cationic charge and balance of overall hydrophobicity are strongly impactful, while benzyl vs. aryl substituent identity and variation of substituent regiochemistry are not.
A Comparison of Personal Sound Amplification Products and Hearing Aids in Ecologically Relevant Test Environments

Purpose The aim of this study was to compare the benefit of self-adjusted personal sound amplification products (PSAPs) to audiologist-fitted hearing aids based on speech recognition, listening eff...
Effect of gamma irradiation on leakage current in CMOS readout chips for the ATLAS upgrade silicon strip tracker at the HL-LHC

The increase of the leakage current of NMOS transistors in certain 130 nm CMOS technologies during exposure to ionizing radiation needs special consideration in the design of detector systems, as this can result in large increases in current and power dissipation. As part of the R& D program for the upgrade of the ATLAS inner tracker for the High Luminosity upgrade of the LHC at the CERN laboratory, a dedicated set of irradiations were carried out with the 60 Co gamma source at the Brookhaven National Laboratory. Measurements will be presented that characterize the increase in the digital leakage current in the 130 nm-technology ABC130 readout chips, as observed by other experiments. The variations of the current as a function of time and total ionizing dose were studied under different conditions, such as dose rate, temperature and power applied to the chip. The ranges of variation of dose rates and temperatures were set to be as close as possible to those expected at the High Luminosity LHC, i.e. in the range 0.6 krad -2.5 and between −10° and +10° C. Some of the chips under test had been pre-irradiated with high doses of X-rays at Rutherford Appleton Laboratory in order to study the different effect of radiation on un- and pre-irradiated devices. The results show unique features, e.g. current peak value and current peak time dependence on dose rate, no change in current when temperatures are raised from −10° to +10C after the current peak is reached and no increase in current on pre-irradiated chips. These results provide valuable information for the understanding of the underlying mechanisms responsible for radiation damage in transistors and detector readout chips. Models that attempt to parameterize the leakage current under different environmental conditions and how they fit to experimental data will be also presented.
Bleeding in Cardiac Surgery: Should Massive Transfusion Be in a 1:1:1 Ratio?

Nearly 10% of postoperative cardiothoracic surgery patients will require transfusion of at least five units of packed red blood cells. This transfusion requirement is multifactorial, however cardiothoracic patients should be considered higher risk for hemorrhage. The optimal transfusion ratio for post cardiac surgery hemorrhage is unclear. Conversely, for trauma patients, the effect of transfusion ratios on outcomes has been studied extensively. For these patients, a balanced transfusion ratio of 1:1:1 (plasma, platelets, red blood cells) results in a decrease in bleeding specific mortality.
Transthoracic Hiatal Hernia Repair

With the advent of laparoscopic and robotic surgery, transthoracic repair of hiatal hernia has become less common. In certain situations, such as multiple prior transabdominal repairs or otherwise hostile abdomen, a transthoracic approach can be helpful. Indications for surgery mirror those for candidates for transabdominal hiatal hernia repair; preoperative evaluation consists of history, physical examination, barium swallow, CT scan, pulmonary function testing, and, if possible, manometry and pH study. Transthoracic repair is generally performed through a left 6th or 7th intercostal space thoracotomy. The hernia sac is mobilized and reduced along with the herniating organs, and the diaphragmatic crura is tightened around an endoscope or bougie. A Collis gastroplasty is performed if there is inadequate esophageal length, and a Belsey fundoplication encompassing 270 degrees of the stomach is performed. Postoperative care involves multimodality pain management, prevention of vomiting and retching, barium swallow to establish a baseline anatomy following repair, and cautious advancement of diet.
Comparing chains in a Banach space

We prove that in a Banach space with the metric approximation property the flat chains defined by De Pauw and Hardt (Am J Math 134:1–69, 2012) coincide with those of Adams (J Geom Anal 18:1–28, 2008).
‘Regimes Theory’ as an Approach to Understanding Educational Cooperation in CARICOM and Commonwealth Countries

ABSTRACTThis article discusses the implication of soft diplomacy in education, in the form of educational cooperation, for the governance of regimes. In drawing upon regime theory, it suggests that...
Distance metrics matter: analysing optimisation algorithms for the last mile problem

This research compares and contrasts the performance of 11 optimisation algorithms and two new combined optimisation algorithms for solving the last mile delivery problem. The last mile delivery problem is modelled as a circular region with a central depot and customers randomly distributed throughout the region. The performance of the optimisation algorithms is studied with respect to expected travel distance and computation time needed to achieve a solution for problems with varying numbers of customers and where travel distance is measured with Euclidean and Manhattan distance metrics. The paper represents the first analytical comparison of different algorithms for optimising last mile delivery when the number of customers varies stochastically under both Manhattan and Euclidian distance metrics. Findings show that the number of customer deliveries and the metric used to measure travel distance impacts a decision maker's choice of the best algorithm and that employing multiple algorithms is recommended.
Semi quantitative detection of signature peptides in body fluids by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS)

Abstract This study covers a modified semi-quantitative approach to detecting signature peptides for body fluid identification. A liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometer normally used for toxicology was adapted to detect target ion transitions for five semen or saliva specific peptides. Peptide concentrations were measured based on a mixture of synthetic peptide standards. Samples were processed using a three-hour trypsin digestion and Microcon membrane filtration. This method generates PCR compatible DNA and peptide fractions that can be typed without any further treatment. Preliminary validation tests covered stains on different substrates, semen/saliva mixtures, limit of detection, and repeatability. All signature peptides were present at different concentrations, varied amongst donors, and were tissue specific. Saliva peptides were detected at lower concentrations and had a higher limit of detection (LOD). Semen peptides had higher concentrations and were detected even as a minor component in a mixture. All semen peptides and all, but one, saliva peptides were detected on the various substrates. Semen peptide concentrations had relative standard deviations (RSDs) lower than 20%, indicating high repeatability, different from saliva where higher RSDs were observed. DNA fractions did not show signs of degradation or PCR inhibition.
Exercise Intolerance, Mortality, and Organ System Impairment in Adult Survivors of Childhood Cancer

PURPOSEExercise intolerance, associated with heart failure and death in general populations, is not well studied in survivors of childhood cancer. We examined prevalence of exercise intolerance in ...
Effects of a 16-Week Online Classroom Physical Activity Integration Course on Student-Level Outcomes.

Teachers can help students meet physical activity (PA) recommendations by integrating PA into the classroom. Few studies have evaluated student PA after teacher-received professional development. P...
Sex specific effect of alcohol on hepatic plasmacytoid dendritic cells.

Abstract Alcoholic liver disease includes a spectrum of clinical and histological entities. They result from the combined direct effect of alcohol and its metabolites on immune cells and resident tissue cells. In humans and mice, females are more susceptible to alcoholic liver injury than males. Despite being involved in sex specific differences of immune mediated tissue injury, plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) have not been thoroughly assessed as a cellular target of alcohol in humans or mice. Therefore, Meadows-Cook diet was used to study alcohol effect on hepatic dendritic cells. Alcohol consumption for 12 weeks increased hepatic pDCs in female mice. The expression of the C-C chemokine receptor type 2 (CCR2) increased in hepatic pDC of alcohol-fed female mice. Bone marrow transplant chimera showed CCR2 dependent bone marrow egress of pDCs. Chronic alcohol exposure has a sex specific effect on hepatic pDCs population that may explain sex differences to alcoholic liver disease.
Attachment of cartilage wear particles to the synovium negatively impacts friction properties.

Abstract Cartilage wear particles are released into the synovial fluid by mechanical and chemical degradation of the articular surfaces during osteoarthritis and attach to the synovial membrane. Accumulation of wear particles could alter key tissue-level mechanical properties of the synovium, hindering its characteristically low-friction interactions with underlying articular surfaces in the synovial joint. The present study employs a custom loading device to further the characterization of native synovium friction properties, while investigating the hypothesis that attachment of cartilage wear particles increases friction coefficient. Juvenile bovine synovium demonstrated characteristically low friction coefficients in sliding contact with glass, in agreement with historical measurements. Friction coefficient increased with higher normal load in saline, while lubrication with native synovial fluid maintained low friction coefficients at higher loads. Cartilage wear particles generated from juvenile bovine cartilage attached directly to synovium explants in static culture, with incorporation onto the tissue denoted by cell migration onto the particle surface. In dilute synovial fluid mimicking the decreased lubricating properties during osteoarthritis, wear particle attachment significantly increased friction coefficient against glass, and native cartilage and synovium. In addition to providing a novel characterization of synovial joint tribology this work highlights a potential mechanism for cartilage wear particles to perpetuate the degradative environment of osteoarthritis by modulating tissue-level properties of the synovium that could impact macroscopic wear as well as mechanical stimuli transmitted to resident cells.
Minimally Invasive Versus Open Surgical Approaches in Children: Pros/Cons

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) is a surgical approach that has rapidly changed the world of surgery in the last few decades. Its use in pediatric populations has increased with technological improvements and greater surgeon experience. However, an open approach remains a valuable option in many pediatric patients. Discussion of the pros and cons of each approach, especially to anesthesiologists, depends on a strong understanding of the physiologic effects of insufflation with MIS. Furthermore, outcomes data for pediatric specific surgeries is significant in the comparison of MIS vs open surgical approaches.