All but one

Function-as-a-Service (FaaS) is one form of the serverless cloud computing paradigm and is defined through FaaS platforms (e.g., AWS Lambda) executing event-triggered code snippets (i.e., functions). Many studies that empirically evaluate the performance of such FaaS platforms have started to appear but we are currently lacking a comprehensive understanding of the overall domain. To address this gap, we conducted a multivocal literature review (MLR) covering 112 studies from academic (51) and grey (61) literature. We find that existing work mainly studies the AWS Lambda platform and focuses on micro-benchmarks using simple functions to measure CPU speed and FaaS platform overhead (i.e., container cold starts). Further, we discover a mismatch between academic and industrial sources on tested platform configurations, find that function triggers remain insufficiently studied, and identify HTTP API gateways and cloud storages as the most used external service integrations. Following existing guidelines on experimentation in cloud systems, we discover many flaws threatening the reproducibility of experiments presented in the surveyed studies. We conclude with a discussion of gaps in literature and highlight methodological suggestions that may serve to improve future FaaS performance evaluation studies.

Test suite reduction techniques decrease the cost of software testing by removing the redundant test cases from the test suite while still producing a reduced set of tests that yields the same level of code coverage as the original suite. Most of the existing approaches to reduction aim to decrease the size of the test suite. Yet, the difference in the execution cost of the tests is often significant and it may be costly to use a test suite consisting of a few long-running test cases. Thus, this paper proposes an algorithm, based on the concept of test irreplaceability, which creates a reduced test suite with a decreased execution cost. Leveraging widely used benchmark programs, the empirical study shows that, in comparison to existing techniques, the presented algorithm is the most effective at reducing the cost of running a test suite.

nnn The primary objective of this thesis is to contribute to the development of a theory of how computerized decision aids affect decision behavior. nnn This objective is attained by developing a cost-benefit-based model of how decision makers select from available cognitive information processing operators. The cost-benefit model assumes that decision makers establish qcognitive repertoiresq comprised of all the cognitive operators they are capable of executing. When making a decision, decision makers choose from this repertoire based on maximizing net benefit (execution benefits less execution costs). Decision aids are one of the task environment factors that influence expected execution costs. nnnn It is important to develop a theory of decision-aid effect so that decision aids can be matched more purposefully to the characteristics of the decision maker, the task, and the environment. This objective contrasts to the current situation, which is characterized by ad hoc implementation of decision aids on the assumption that aided decision making will improve the quality of decisions. More generally, expositions of decision process theories that help explain contingent decision behavior in different task environments are needed to improve decision performance. nnn Since the decision making model developed in this research was based on cognitive decision processes, a process tracing methodology (collection of verbal protocols) was used to gather data to test the model. This methodology relies on participants verbalizing their thought processes as they make a decision. Coded verbal protocol transcripts form the basis of the experimental data used for statistical testing purposes. nnn This research used one combination of experimental task (a financial analysis task), participant (intermediate-level professional accountants), and decision aid (a computer spreadsheet program). Participants were asked to assess the relative risk of seven competing loan applicants. Nine participants were provided with only paper-based task materials. Eight participants were also provided with access to a computer spreadsheet containing loan applicant financial information. nnn The central research proposition that decision-aid effect would be limited to increased execution frequencies of cognitive operators specifically supported by the decision aid was ratified. Apart from this expected effect, few differences were found in the decision behaviors of unaided and aided decision makers. However, post hoc tests of variance in decision behavior showed aided decision makers operate more consistently. This result cannot be explained easily within the cost-benefit theory used in the research. nnn By applying cost-benefit theories of decision behavior to individual cognitive operators, some tentative decision-aid design guidelines have emerged. When decision making is regarded as a sequence of cognitive operator executions, improved decision making performance results from improved cognitive operator execution performance. To achieve improved cognitive operator execution performance by using a decision aid implies that the affected operators positively contribute toward problem solution. Unless decision-aid designers analyze task requirements in terms of required (or desired) cognitive operators, the results achieved by providing decision aids will be unpredictable. Accordingly, maximum decision-aid leverage will be obtained only by knowing which cognitive operators result in information processing bottlenecks and by providing decision aids specifically designed to overcome these bottlenecks. nnn Because verbal-protocol-based research is expensive and time consuming, not all research propositions could be tested. In particular, research propositions relating to expected changes in decision behavior arising from the amount of task information embedded in the decision aid were not tested. Testing these propositions would add another factor to the empirical work, thus doubling required samples sizes and resultant data analyses. Appropriate experimental designs for future research are identified. nnn In summary, the research has contributed to the development of a cost-benefit theory of decision behavior that is useful in understanding the cognitive consequences of changes in the task environment. Because decision aids reduce expected costs of cognitive operator execution, they increase expected operator net benefit. Where operator net benefit is increased, increased execution frequencies follow. By analyzing other changes in the task environment in a similar fashion (that is, by determining the effects on expected operator execution costs and expected operator execution benefits), more accurate predictions of contingent behavior can be made.

Background: The behavioral investigation of compressive nonlinearity (CNL) can be achieved by comparing the growth of forward masking (FM) between on-frequency and off-frequency maskers. Because the off-frequency masker exhibits linear behavior at the characteristic frequency whereas the on-frequency masker functions nonlinearly, comparing the experimental outcomes using scalp-recorded auditory brainstem response (ABR) measures provides an objective estimation of auditory physiology.Purpose: The study aimed to examine CNL using ABR parameters, such as Vth peak latency or amplitude, using probe stimuli frequencies ranging from 0.5–4 kilohertz (kHz), which employs both on- and off-frequency FM methods.Research Design: An experimental within-group research design was adopted for the study.Study Sample: The study was conducted in 31 healthy individuals aged 18–45 years (mean age of 27.88 ± 8.589 years).Data Collection and Analysis: The ABR was recorded employing a tone-on-tone FM paradigm for probe stimuli frequencies ranging from 0.5–4 kHz. The experiment was done under unmasked and forward-masked conditions (on- and off-frequency FM with varying masker intensity from 50–80 decibels [dB] sound pressure level [SPL]). The data for latency and amplitude were statistically analyzed using one-way repeated measures analysis of variance (RM-ANOVA), two-way RM-ANOVA, and Bonferroni post hoc tests between and within different probe stimuli in different conditions. Further, a paired t test compared the slope across FM conditions.Results: A gradual shift in Vth peak latency and a reduction in response amplitude was observed in proportion to the increase in masker intensity for both masking conditions across all probe stimuli, with a more pronounced shift in on-frequency FM. However, no significant difference in latency was found between the masker intensities of 60–70 dB SPL in either masking condition. Additionally, the growth of masking showed a steep slope in the on-frequency FM with a smaller R² value.Conclusions: Objective electrophysiologic measures are instrumental in accurately estimating CNL because these measures provide robust, efficient, and reliable insights into the intricate functioning of the auditory system without reliance on a subjective behavioral response.

SummaryThe neural responses that distinguish novel from familiar items in recognition memory tasks are remarkably fast in both humans and nonhuman primates. In humans, the earliest onsets of neural novelty effects emerge at about ∼150–200 ms after stimulus onset [1–5]. However, in recognition memory studies with nonhuman primates, novelty effects can arise at as early as 70–80 ms [6, 7]. Here, we address the possibility that this large species difference in onset latencies is caused experimentally by the necessity of using reward reinforcement to motivate the detection of novel or familiar items in nonhuman primates but not in humans. Via magnetoencephalography in humans, we show in two experiments that the onset of neural novelty signals is accelerated from ∼200 ms to ∼85 ms if correct recognition memory for either novel or familiar items is rewarded. Importantly, this acceleration is independent of whether the detection of the novel or the familiar scenes is rewarded. Furthermore, this early novelty effect contributed to memory retrieval because neural reward responses, which were contingent upon novelty detection, followed ∼100 ms later. Thus, under the contextual influence of reward motivation, behaviorally relevant novelty signals emerge much faster than previously held possible in humans.

Abstract. This study presents a comparative analysis of two shafts on which material feeder discs were mounted. In the first configuration, a bronze sleeve bushing was used, whereas in the second one, two needle roller bearings (SKF, 40×47×16 mm) were applied. Both shafts operated under identical service conditions on equivalent machines positioned side by side, in a two-shift system over a period of five years, corresponding to approximately 15,000 operating hours. Both maintenance and service of the systems were carried out in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations, which ensured comparable operating conditions. The conducted study aimed to determine the differences in wear, reliability, and maintenance costs between the shaft equipped with a bronze bushing and the one fitted with needle roller bearings, as illustrated by the condition of the components shown in Fig.1. The obtained results may serve as a basis for optimizing design solutions in similar drive systems used in industrial applications [1-3].

PurposeInterstitial lung diseases (ILDs) are caused by inflammation and/or fibrosis of alveolar walls resulting in impaired gas exchange. Hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) is the third most common type of ILDs. Corticosteroids are the mainstay treatment for HP. The use of intramuscular (IM) betamethasone or intravenous (IV) dexamethasone as weekly pulse doses has shown higher benefit than daily oral prednisolone for HP patients. The aim of this study is to directly compare different corticosteroids in terms of effectiveness and in monetary values and perform an economic evaluation.MethodsOne hundred and seven patients were tested for pulmonary function tests (PFTs) and inflammatory markers to assess the treatment effectiveness. A cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA) was performed. ICERs between 3 treatment groups were calculated.ResultsPost treatment, Krebs von den Lungen-6 (KL-6) levels significantly improved in betamethasone group from 723.22 ± 218.18 U/ml to 554.48 ± 129.69 U/ml (p = 0.001). A significant improvement in erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) occurred in the dexamethasone group from 56.12 ± 27.97 mm to 30.06 ± 16.04 mm (p = 0.048). A significant improvement in forced expiratory volume (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC) and six-minute walk distance (6MWD) was observed within the three treatment groups. A significant improvement in oxygen desaturation percentage (SpO2) occurred within dexamethasone and betamethasone groups. Betamethasone and dexamethasone were found more cost-effective than prednisolone as their ICERs fell in quadrant C. Furthermore, ICER between betamethasone and dexamethasone was performed; a small difference in cost was found compared to the higher benefit of betamethasone.ConclusionBetamethasone and dexamethasone were found to be more effective than prednisolone in improving the inflammatory reaction and the clinical features of HP patients. Betamethasone was found to be the best intervention in terms of cost against the effect.

The Internet of Things (IoT) integrates the sensing technology and radio frequency identification technology between goods. Recent IoT development has the disadvantages of low reliability, poor security, and high maintenance costs. Moreover, IoT applications should have the special requirements of supporting massive connections, low terminal costs, low terminal power consumption, and super-coverage capabilities in 5G scenarios. By integrating 5G with IoT, the information transmission rate can be effectively improved, the transmission delay can be reduced, and the reliability and security of the network can be improved. 5G technology will support the innovation and development of IoT applications, vigorously promote the development process of IoT, and continue to break ground in new areas and discover new worlds.

To evaluate the effect of online visual games on the balance, visual perception, and oculomotor skills of children with developmental dyslexia during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this single-blind randomized clinical trial, 50 children with developmental dyslexia, aged 7 to 11years, were recruited from rehabilitation centers in Tehran, Iran, using a convenience sampling strategy. Participants were randomly divided into two groups: intervention (25) and control (25), with close matching based on sex, age, IQ, and type of disease. The interventions consisted of web-based online computer games focusing on visual perception and oculomotor skills. Outcome measures included the Test of Visual Perception Skills-Revised, the Pediatric Balance Scale, and videonystagmography. The Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-IV and the Reading and Dyslexia Test were used to evaluate IQ and reading skills, respectively. The intervention group exhibited significant post-intervention improvements in the Test of Visual Perception Skills-Revised, tracking gain, saccade latency, and saccade velocity scores (all P < 0.001). In contrast, the control group showed no significant differences in these tests in pre- and post-intervention (all P > 0.05). Notably, post-intervention comparisons between the groups revealed significant differences in smooth pursuit eye movements (P < 0.001), saccade latency (P = 0.027), and saccade velocity (P < 0.001). The Pediatric Balance Scale scores remained unchanged in both groups post-intervention (intervention: P = 0.317; control: P = 0.999). Game face validity was affirmed with impact scores above 1.5 for all items, suggesting that the games were straightforward, clear, and relevant. Online visual games enhanced oculomotor and visual perception skills in children with dyslexia but did not influence balance skills.

Objectives: To provide a thorough description of team rehabilitation care and compare the structure, process, and outcomes in two specialized arthritis rehabilitation settings.Methods: Patients with inflammatory arthritis scheduled for inpatient rehabilitation in seven specialized rehabilitation centres and three rheumatology hospital departments in Norway were included consecutively in a prospective cohort study. Patients completed questionnaires at admission, at discharge, and at a 6-month follow-up, and kept a diary regarding structure and process variables during the rehabilitation stay.Results: Eighty patients in rehabilitation centres and 73 in hospital departments were included and 80% responded to the 6-month follow-up questionnaire. The two clinical settings differed significantly with regard to structure variables such as cost, referral of patients, length of stay, and number of health professionals involved, and most process variables reflecting treatment modalities. The most remarkable difference was in the amount of individual intervention compared with group intervention. Despite significant improvements in most outcomes at discharge, the scores deteriorated towards baseline level 6 months later. There was a trend towards more significant improvement during rehabilitation for patients at rehabilitation centres whereas patients at hospitals had more prolonged improvement.Conclusions: Team rehabilitation for inflammatory arthritis in two different clinical settings differed across most variables for structure and process, but few significant differences in outcome were found. Considering the substantial differences in cost, there is an urgent need for consensus concerning which patients should receive rehabilitation in which setting. Future research on the development and evaluation of methods for prolonging the beneficial effects of rehabilitation is needed.

Researchers working on economic evaluations alongside trials have to balance minimising data collection with maximising the ability to measure differences in costs. Using existing data sources may keep the costs of research down, but these data may not be entirely appropriate to the evaluation question. When evaluating technologies in intensive care it is particularly important to be able to classify patients correctly by their resource requirements especially when those requirements vary considerably from day to day. This paper describes and justifies methods for costing the care provided for babies in (one arm of) an on-going multi-centre trial, the Collaborative ECMO trial. This trial is evaluating alternative policies of life support for mature (full term) newborn babies with severe respiratory failure. The most reliable cost information on neonatal intensive care is available from a study, conducted independently from the trial, which has used simple cost apportionment on a large sample of units. By drawing on clinical opinion and carrying out a case note exercise we assessed whether this available information was appropriate to estimate 'baseline' costs for the control group during their initial 'acute' phase of illness. We concluded that the available cost estimates would need to be weighted to reflect the additional costs of drugs and investigations for this group of babies during the acute phase. Multidisciplinary collaboration on trials can help economists and other researchers to balance the requirement for simple cost measurements with more detailed primary research.

Cost-efficiency considerations in the choice of a microarray platform for time course experimental designs

: Materials engineering requirements peculiar to tank-automotive equipment can be related to significant basic application factors wherein material suitability can be judged. These factors include weight, service durability, utilization, cost and ballistic integrity. Examples of prior and current development and application programs are described to demonstrate the importance of total materials analysis in tank-automotive equipment for achieving greater reliability, manufacturing simplicity and lower cost. Some of the topics covered are aluminum armor, explosive welding, explosive forming, application of leaded steels, and design around brittle fracture.

119 Background: Since 2009, UF Health Jacksonville has made significant changes in the Breast Cancer Program. These changes spanned across multiple specialties and have focused on creating protocols, guidelines, checklists, and policies for the management of breast cancer. This study evaluated the effect of standardized institutional protocols on breast cancer quality measures. Methods: Tumor registry was used to identify 350 patients who were diagnosed and treated at UF Health Jacksonville for breast cancer from 2006-2012 (Stage 0-III excluding LCIS). A retrospective review of electronic health records was performed to compare the achievement of quality measures 2 years before program development (6/2006 – 6/2008) to that of 2 years after program development (6/2010 -6/2012). Results: There were significant improvements in breast cancer diagnosis and surgical treatment quality measures after establishment of standardized protocols. Performance of pre-surgical needle biopsies regardless of diagnostic outcome (90% vs. 96%, p=0.02), and diagnosis of carcinoma via needle biopsy (50% vs. 87%, p=0.04) both showed significant improvement. More patients underwent sentinel lymph node biopsy post-protocol (43% vs. 68%, p&lt;0.001). There was improvement in surgical specimen orientation (58% vs. 88%, p&lt;0.001), and image confirmation of the specimen post-protocol (86% vs. 97%, p=0.01). There was a reduction of second or additional operations (44% vs. 26%, p=0.004), which included a significant reduction in lumpectomy re-excisions for margins (30% vs. 14%, p=0.003). There was a non-significant improvement in attempted (64% vs. 71%, p=0.17), and successful breast conservation surgery (57% vs. 65%, p=0.10). There were no significant changes in the rates of recommendation for adjuvant radiation, endocrine, or chemotherapy. There was no improvement in patient adherence to the recommended adjuvant therapy based on protocol implementation. Conclusions: Implementation of standardized institutional protocols can significantly increase achievement of quality measures in breast cancer diagnosis and surgery. However, these protocols did not have a significant effect on systemic therapy or radiation therapy quality measures.

Challenges, Opportunities, and Innovations in the Health and Well-being of the World’s Aging Citizens