cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Diagnostic yield for neuroimaging in patients with unilateral eye or facial pain

Abstract Background: The neuroimaging evaluation of isolated pain in or around the eye has not been studied previously.We report the low diagnostic yield of neuroimaging in patients who have a normal ocular examination and unilateral eye pain or facial pain predominantly affecting the eye. Methods: Retrospective review of patients referred to 3 neuro-ophthalmology practices for unexplained pain in or around the eye. Inclusion criteria were adults with isolated unilateral eye/facial pain, neuroimaging, and a normal eye exam. Exclusion criteria were symptoms typical of a defined pain syndrome (e.g., trigeminal neuralgia or giant cell arteritis), and exam findings that would account for the pain. Results: One hundred and twenty-seven (127) of the 760 reviewed patients met study criteria, and underwent MRI (75) or CT (34) scans, or both (18). Imaging was normal in 106 (83%). Abnormalities ( n = 21) on imaging (17%) included nonspecific T2-weighted hyperintensities (10), sinusitis (5), superior ophthalmic vein enlargement (1), pontine lacunar infarct (1), Chiari malformation (1), thalamic mass (1), old occipital stroke (1), and focal enlargement of the third cranial nerve (1). Interpretation: Although imaging showed abnormalities in 17% of cases of isolated pain in or around the eye, only 2 abnormalities were believed to be possibly related to the pain and only I case was probably related.The diagnostic yield of neuroimaging in patients with a normal examination and isolated, unilateral eye/facial pain referred to a neuro-ophthalmologist is low.
A paradigm for a retrieval effectiveness experiment

Based upon the expectation that empirical research will eventually replace logical attempts to assess the effectiveness of different indexing rationales, the author presents a paradigm for such experimentation. The recommended criterion of retrieval effectiveness is a series of independent measures stated in terms of the user's requirements. The experimental procedures thought necessary to carry out such an experiment are illustrated in the paradigm. In addition, a series of appendices, each of which deals with a specific question or difficulty encountered in this kind of experimentation, is presented.
3D Unsteady RANS Modeling of Complex Hydraulic Engineering Flows. I: Numerical Model

A general-purpose numerical method is developed for solving the full three-dimensional (3D), incompressible, unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes (URANS) equations in natural river reaches containing complex hydraulic structures at full-scale Reynolds numbers. The method adopts body-fitted, chimera overset grids in conjunction with a grid-embedding strategy to accurately and efficiently discretize arbitrarily complex, multiconnected flow domains. The URANS and turbulence closure equations are discretized using a second-order accurate finite-volume approach. The discrete equations are integrated in time via a dual-time-stepping, artificial compressibility method in conjunction with an efficient coupled, block-implicit, approximate factorization iterative solver. The computer code is parallelized to take full advantage of multiprocessor computer systems so that unsteady solutions on grids with 106 nodes can be obtained within reasonable computational time. The power of the method is demonstrated by appl...
Critical incidents in the marriage of psychology and technology: A discussion of potential ethical issues in practice, education, and policy.

We identified critical incidents in psychologists’ use of technology in their service provision with clients. Study coordinators sent messages out to various listservs requesting that practicing psychologists respond to an online survey for their reports of how the integration of certain technology advances (e.g., e-mail, electronic health records, social-networking websites, etc.) may have compromised client privacy or confidentiality. Twenty-eight participants responded to the survey and noted a variety of concerns, including themes of (a) unauthorized access to electronic client records, (b) inappropriate dissemination of client information via technology, and (c) unique client concerns associated with social-networking websites (e.g., Twitter, Facebook, etc.). We discuss ramifications and strategies related to these ethical concerns in education, practice, and ethical standards and principles.
THE “UBIQUITOUS” REALITY OF VECTOR IMMUNOLOGY

Ubiquitination (ubiquitylation) is a common protein modification that regulates a multitude of processes within the cell. This modification is typically accomplished through the covalent binding of ubiquitin to a lysine residue onto a target protein and is catalysed by the presence of three enzymes: an activating enzyme (E1), ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme (E2) and ubiquitin-protein ligase (E3). In recent years, ubiquitination has risen as a major signalling regulator of immunity and microbial pathogenesis in the mammalian system. Still, little is known about how ubiquitin relates specifically to vector immunology. Here, we provide a brief overview of ubiquitin biochemistry and describe how ubiquitination regulates immune responses in arthropods of medical relevance. We also discuss scientific gaps in the literature and suggest that, similar to mammals, ubiquitin is a major regulator of immunity in medically important arthropods.
Kidney Aminopeptidase A and Hypertension, Part II Effects of Angiotensin II

Abstract—Aminopeptidase A (APA) is the principal enzyme that metabolizes angiotensin II (Ang II) to angiotensin III. Previously, we showed that kidney APA was elevated in spontaneously hypertensive...
Probability based prosody model for unit selection

Most modern text-to-speech (TTS) systems are unit selection style. In this kind of system, the predicted prosody values, such as pitch, duration and energy values for each synthesis unit, are important factors to conduct unit selection. We present a probability based prosody model in which the distribution of prosody values in a given context equivalent cluster is described by a Gaussian mixture model (GMM), and the distance between a candidate unit and the context equivalent cluster is defined by the GMM probability output. A novel framework for unit selection style TTS systems is derived from the model, and a series of experiments are done on the framework.
Book Review: Legal Reference for Librarians: How and Where to Find the Answers

This book review was written to endorse Legal Reference for Librarians: How and Where to Find the Answers by Paul D. Healey. In eight years of library experience I have witnessed how reference librarians handle legal questions. This book explains not only our legal system but also what constitutes legal advice and what does not with easy to understand examples. In addition, each state is included with helpful resources. As librarians, we can say we can't give legal advice but we should never just dismiss our patrons because we are unprepared for legal questions. I would make the argument that at the minimum every library should own this book.
Coefficient Change in Input–Output Models: Theory and Applications

A general theory of coefficient change in input–output and social accounting models is proposed. The major contribution is the introduction of the notion of a ‘field of influence’ as the basis for interpreting the effects of coefficient change. This basis is elaborated through a set of propositions. In Section 3, the implications are explored; first, the first-order changes in one row or column are examined. This approach is then generalized to changes in two or more rows or columns and the biproportional or RAS technique is shown to be a special case of coefficient change. Empirical applications are presented in Section 4, drawing on the work in regional and national economies. The paper concludes with some remarks about ways in which this work might be linked with parallel interests in decomposition of input–output systems.
Stress fracture as a complication of autogenous bone graft harvest from the distal tibia.

Background: Autogenous bone graft from the distal tibia provides cancellous bone graft for foot and ankle operations, and it has osteogenic and osteoconductive properties. The site is in close proximity to the foot and ankle, and published retrospective studies show low morbidity from the procedure. Methods: One-hundred autografts were obtained from the distal tibia between 2000 and 2003. In four cases the distal tibial bone graft harvest resulted in a stress fracture. There were three women and one man. Results: The average time of diagnosis of the stress fracture from the operation was 1.8 months. All stress fractures healed with a short course (average 2.4 months) of cast immobilization. Conclusions: This study demonstrated that a stress fracture from the donor site of autogenous bone graft of the distal tibia occurs and can be successfully treated nonoperatively.
Dielectric deamplification of multiphase cementitious composites in the frequency range of 0.5GHz to 4.5GHz

Dielectric properties (dielectric constant and loss factor) of hydrated cementitious composites (e.g., Portland cement paste and concrete) are the basis for the use of microwave and radar nondestructive testing/inspection techniques (such as GPR) in civil infrastructure systems (e.g., buildings and bridges). Among different types of cementitious composites, hydrated cement paste (hcp) is the major element providing the bonding strength in cementitious composites. Since hcp is porous and multiphase, its measured effective dielectric constant and loss factor are the function of not only frequency, temperature, and humidity but also its design parameters such as the water-to-cement (w/c) ratio. The removal of moisture content (liquid phase) in hcp materials is known as the dielectric deamplification in hcp and other cementitious composites. This phenomenon affects the performance of microwave/radar sensors when applied to concrete structures. It is also known that interactions among liquid phase (moisture), gaseous phase (voids), and solid phase (hcp) provide insightful information regarding material composition and structural integrity (e.g., cracking in hcp) of the composite. In this paper, the dependence of dielectric deamplification in hcp on the w/c ratio of hcp in the frequency range of 0.5∼4.5 GHz at room temperature (25 C) is investigated. Panel specimens made of hcp designed with different w/c ratios (0.35, 0.40, 0.42, 0.45, 0.50, 0.55) and cured for 7 days were prepared. Some hcp panels were oven-dried at 105 C in order to remove non-chemically bound moisture in hcp. Dielectric constant and loss factor of hcp panels were measured using an open-ended coaxial probe system and a network analyzer. From the measurements, it is found that the dielectric deamplification in the measured dielectric constant of hcp exhibits a pattern different from the one in the loss factor of hcp, while both patterns are related to the w/c ratio of hcp. This finding can be useful in predicting the material composition of hcp and other cementitious composites using microwave/radar sensors.
Combined source coding and modulation for fading channels

The authors report on a combined source encoding and modulation technique based on permutation codes (PCs). This combined system directly maps the source codewords into modulation symbols. This system offers improvement in terms of better overall fidelity, reduced encoding delay, and robustness. Nearly optimal codes for Gaussian and Laplacian sources are obtained for fading channels. The performance of these codes and the combined system is evaluated and compared with other systems.
Interfacial morphology and shear deformation of flip chip solder joints

We examined the interfacial morphology and shear deformation of flip chip solder joints on an organic substrate (chip-on-board). The large differences in the coefficients of thermal expansion between the board and the chip resulted in bending of the 1-cm2 chip with a curvature of 57 ± 12 cm. The corner bump pads on the chip registered a relative misalignment of 10 μm with respect to those on the board, resulting in shear deformation of the solder joints. The mechanical properties of these solder joints were tested on samples made by sandwiching two Si chips with electroless Ni(P) as the under-bump metallization and 25 solder interconnects. Joints were sheared to failure. Fracture was found to occur along the solder/Ni3Sn4 interface. In addition, cracking and peeling damages of the SiO2 dielectric layer were observed in the layer around the solder balls, indicating that damage to the dielectric layer may have occurred prior to the fracture of the solder joints due to a large normal stress. The failure behavior of the solder joints is characterized by an approximate stress analysis.
Electronic Coupling in InP Nanoparticle Arrays

Arrays and lattices formed from nanoparticles (NPs) present unique opportunities for new optoelectronic materials whose properties can be tuned by controlling the size of the individual NPs and their interparticle separation to effect strong inter-NP electronic coupling. Characterization of the interdot coupling as a function of interdot distance is essential. Using time-resolved THz spectroscopy, we report a six-fold increase in the transient photoconductivity in disordered arrays of 3.2 nm diameter InP NPs separated by 0.9 nm compared to arrays with 1.8 nm separation. Photoconductivity in the arrays is compared to that of isolated NPs and InP epilayers. The epilayer samples exhibit bulk transport behavior while the NP samples do not.
Comorbid Bipolar Disorder and Panic Disorder in Families With a High Prevalence of Bipolar Disorder

OBJECTIVE: Panic attacks are a common complication of affective disorder, although the etiologic relationship of panic and affective symptoms has not been determined. Evidence from a family study suggests that panic attacks and panic disorder may be related genetically to bipolar disorder. This study used diagnostic data from the NIMH Bipolar Disorder Genetics Initiative to assess in a separate, larger family set the familiality of panic combined with bipolar disorder. METHOD: First-degree relatives (N=966) of probands with bipolar I disorder (N=192) and schizoaffective disorder, bipolar type, (N=11) were included in the study. All subjects were interviewed directly and were assigned best-estimate diagnoses for major affective and other psychiatric disorders. The risk of a family member being diagnosed with panic disorder if the proband with bipolar disorder had panic attacks or panic disorder was calculated with logistic regression analysis with generalized estimating equations that controlled for sex an...
Pisa, Catalonia, and Muslim Pirates: Intercultural Exchanges in the Balearic Crusade of 1113–1115

Beyond being the earliest clear interaction between Pisa and Barcelona, the Balearic Crusade was also one of the earliest Iberian extensions of the crusading movement. Afterward, Pisa abandoned its bellicose policy toward Western Mediterranean Muslim cities in favor of friendly diplomatic relations and went from protecting Christian cities on the Tyrrhenian to competing aggressively and warring against them. Simultaneously, Catalonia built a navy for campaigns against Muslim targets, sought papal benefits for such campaigns, and formed international coalitions for their execution, all of which helped solidify Catalonia as a political unit and pushed it towards more international commercial integration. Many of these shifts have been noted before but rarely tied to the Balearic Crusade; this article seeks to rectify this scholarly lacuna.
Student Demographics and the Impact of Team-Based Learning

The use of active learning strategies has frequently been suggested as a way of helping disadvantaged students bridge the achievement gap as all of the usual advantages of active learning (more hands-on nature, focus on problem solving and critical thinking, etc.) are seen as particularly important to this group. This paper examines differences in student outcomes and experiences with Team-Based Learning (TBL) on the basis of several demographic characteristics (age, gender, race/ethnicity, and socioeconomic status). The study population includes students in principles-level economics courses and undergraduate and Master of Business Administration (MBA)-level quantitative methods courses at a mid-sized state university. We find a small, significant improvement in learning outcomes for low-income and minority students when compared to others. We also document several differences in the subjective experiences of minority and low-income students with TBL-based courses.
Atomic Force Microscopy of Annealed Plain Carbon Steels

Microstructure of annealed plain carbon steels is examined using optical microscopy. When the inter-lamellar spacing in pearlite is small, optical microscope at 1000X is unable to resolve the ferrite and cementite lamellae. In hyper-eutectoid steels, cementite in pearlite appears as darker phase whereas the pro-eutectoid cementite appears as a lighter phase. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) of etched steels is able to resolve ferrite and cementite lamellae in pearlite at similar magnifications. Both cementite in pearlite as well as pro-eutectoid cementite appear as raised areas (hills) in AFM images. Interlamellar spacing in pearlite increases with increasing hardenability of steel.Copyright © 2015 by ASME
Bandwidth-Aware Resource Optimization for SMT Processors

In this paper we have studied the memory bandwidth and throughput behaviour of various SPEC CPU2006 workloads in Single Threaded (ST) and Simultaneous Multi-threaded (SMT) environment with varying number of workload copies on IBM POWER7 processor. Our study reveals that for a number of workloads, the bandwidth gets saturated beyond a certain number of copies and the performance gain achieved by increasing the number of copies is very minimal after the bandwidth saturation point. The results also show that for such workloads, after bandwidth saturation, the similar performance as achieved with ST mode, can be achieved by moving the copies to SMT environment with reduced number of cores. This enables us to free-up cores which can be used to intelligently co-schedule non-memory intensive applications. This is of particular value in the HPC cloud environments and can help increase overall throughput of a cloud data-center or cluster. In a non-cloud or traditional environment, this approach has applicability in bringing out workload consolidation and better performance-per-watt. We have also demonstrated by actual hardware implementation of how the freed-up cores by moving to SMT can used effectively for doing other useful computations.
“It Looks Like a Demon”: Black Masculinity and Spirituality in the Age of Ferguson

In this commentary, we contribute to the broader men’s studies research and thought with particular focus on the Black male experience locating Black masculinity and Black spiritual identity as the...
Rebuild of the Air Ventilator for Boiler

The paper recommends a boiler positive burning witch result in the fire door burnt and the boiler abnormal operation witch are caused by incorrect selection of air ventilator.The author analyzes the reason and gives solution to ensure the normal and safe operation of the boiler set.
To choose one’s company: Arendt, Kant, and the Political Sixth Sense:

This essay explores the phenomenon of common sense through a contextual analysis of Hannah Arendt’s political application of Kant’s Critique of Judgment. I begin by tracing the development of Arend...
Salt-Promoted Glucose Aqueous Isomerization Catalyzed by Heterogeneous Organic Base

Effective isomerization of glucose to fructose is a crucial step for 5-hydroxymethylfurfural production from lignocellulose. The present study investigated polystyrene-supported organic bases with varied structural properties for aqueous isomerization of glucose. The results indicate that the heterogeneous organic bases can achieve approximately 30% fructose yields at 120–140 °C. As heterogeneous catalysts, they are generally less efficient than homogeneous organic bases and can lose catalytic activity during recycling likely from thermal-induced byproducts. However, the addition of neutral salt made the heterogeneous organic bases as efficient as homogeneous organic bases, achieving approximately 41% maximum fructose yields at 80–100 °C; and improved the reusability allowing the heterogeneous organic bases to be reused for at least four times without significant loss of catalytic activity.
Game-based online antenatal breastfeeding education: A pilot.

Abstract Aim The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the Healthy Moms intervention on antenatal breastfeeding self-efficacy and intention and to determine the feasibility of using an online game-based learning platform to deliver antenatal breastfeeding education. Background The Internet has potential for improving breastfeeding rates through improving women's access to antenatal breastfeeding education. Methods Twelve computer-based breastfeeding education modules were developed using an online learning platform. Changes in participants' breastfeeding self-efficacy and intention pre- and post-intervention were measured using descriptive statistics and a one-way ANOVA. Results Of the 25 women submitting the pretest, four completed zero quests; seven, orientation only; eight, one to six breastfeeding quests; and six, 10 to 12 breastfeeding quests. No significant differences in breastfeeding self-efficacy and intention were found among the groups. Conclusions Online antenatal breastfeeding education is feasible; however, further research is warranted to determine if it can affect breastfeeding outcomes.
Biopolitical Excess: Techno-Legal Assemblage of Stem Cell Research in India:

Stem cell research on cardiac patients at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), which was disclosed through the media in 2005, created a storm. On the one hand, it was celebrated as ...
Teaching treatment of mild, acute diarrhea and secondary dehydration to homeless parents.

Abstract Homeless people in America are at risk for numerous health hazards. Diarrhea and consequent dehydration commonly affect homeless infants and children. Dehydration, if not treated, can quickly become a medical emergency. If, however, signs of diarrhea and dehydration are recognized and treated early, medical complications may be avoided. Fortunately, some homeless people now have access to shelter facilities that provide health education and services. Education is a fundamental tool in the prevention of disease. For homeless children sick with diarrhea, an educated parent may mean the difference between life and death. Therefore, an educational program was developed to help homeless parents recognize and treat mild, acute diarrhea and secondary dehydration. Participants were urged to treat mild diarrhea at home with oral rehydration therapy, thus preventing expensive medical treatment and hospitalization. The project was based on a format used in workshops designed for battered women's shelters. The program's philosophy reflects the belief that people possess many answers to problems, but often lack the opportunity or encouragement to make use of their knowledge.
Early physiologic patterns in acute illness and accidents: Toward a concept of circulatory dysfunction and shock based on invasive and noninvasive hemodynamic monitoring

The aim of the present study was to explore methods, concepts, and techniques that provide recognition of circulatory deficiencies at the earliest possible time in the patient's illness. We used both the standard invasive pulmonary artery thermodilution catheter and noninvasive hemodynamic monitoring systems consisting of a new bioimpedance cardiac output device, pulse oximetry, transcutaneous oxygen (PtCO2) and carbon dioxide tensions as well as the transcutaneous oxygen tension/fraction of inspired oxygen ratio (PtCO2/FIO2). These three noninvasive systems were used to evaluate cardiac function, pulmonary function, and tissue perfusion, respectively. This approach to early noninvasive monitoring is based on recent evidence suggesting that poor tissue perfusion and oxygenation initiate circulatory dysfunction that leads to shock and organ failure. We studied 303 acute episodes of circulatory dysfunction and shock in 261 patients in a university-run county hospital; 75 were acute traumatic injuries and 109 acute nontrauma medical emergencies on admission to the emergency department, and 77 ICU patients with an acute illness or exacerbation of their current illness. The study was a prospective, descriptive study to identify early abnormal circulatory patterns reflecting the cardiac, pulmonary, and perfusion functions associated with death and with survival. We described noninvasively monitored patterns in individual illustrative cases, in common etiologic groups, and in physiologic categories representing various abnormal functional patterns. We found that hypotensive shock usually was preceded by episodes of high flow followed by low flow and inadequate tissue perfusion indicated by reduced PtCO2; this frequent pattern was modified by associated co-morbid conditions, especially hypovolemia, limited cardiac reserve capacity, age, hypertensive states, and increased body metabolism from infection, trauma, stress, exercise, temperature, and endocrine disorders. Reduced pulmonary function occurred in 18% of emergency patients; these were usually patients with thoracic trauma, severe hypovolemia, head injuries, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, drug overdose, and central nervous system failure (massive stroke and coma). We concluded that noninvasive measurements identify early circulatory problems reliably and provide objective criteria for physiologic analysis as well as for definition of therapeutic goals and titration of therapy.
Retinal tubulin binds macular carotenoids.

Purpose To investigate the biochemical mechanisms responsible for the specific uptake, concentration, and stabilization of the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin in the macula. Methods Soluble extracts of bovine retina mixed with radioactive carotenoids were purified by hydrophobic interaction, ion exchange, and gel filtration chromatography. Carotenoid-associated proteins in these purified preparations were identified through photoaffinity labeling and protein microsequencing. Similar purifications on human macular tissue without the addition of exogenous carotenoids also were performed. Results Experiments on bovine retinal tissue demonstrated that tubulin is the major soluble carotenoid-binding protein. When soluble extracts of human macular protein were examined, the endogenous carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin were found to copurify with tubulin. Conclusions Tubulin is found in abundance in the receptor axon layer of the fovea, where it can serve as a locus for the deposition of the high concentrations of macular carotenoids found there. The binding interaction of carotenoids and tubulin in the Henle's fiber layer could play an important role in the photoprotective effects of the macular carotenoids against the progression of age-related macular degeneration. The association of carotenoids with tubulin, a protein that can form highly ordered linear arrays, may provide an explanation for the dichroic phenomenon of Haidinger's brushes.
Ordering-based strategies for horn clauses

Two new theorem-proving procedures for equational Horn clauses are presented. The largest literal is selected for paramodulation in both strategies, except that one method treats positive literals as larger than negative ones and results in a unit strategy. Both use term orderings to restrict paramodulation to potentially maximal sides of equations and to increase the amount of allowable simplification (demodulation). Completeness is shown using proof orderings.
Post-test impression creep evaluation methods and findings for improved code of practice

The impression creep test is a small sample testing technique that has been used mostly for qualitative assessments intended for risk ranking of in-service components. Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) has conducted testing to determine the limitations of the test method. This involved extensive analytical and physical posttest assessments that have led to recommendations to improve the current code of practice. Analytical assessments for determination of minimum strain rates suggest that having a standard procedure would be very beneficial to the testing community. Physical assessments that involve indentation depth measurements, hardness mapping and grain structure evaluations have provided methods for determining the affected area of deformation under the indentation surface. These methods may help in validating and revising current FEA models. Additional FEA modeling may also help answer further questions regarding applicable indentation range and appropriate testing conditions (stresses and temperatures). EPRI will continue to conduct impression creep testing to further evaluate the limitations of the test method and address questions from the work discussed in this paper.
Using a Polygraph System for Evaluation of the Social Desirability Response Bias in Self-Report Measures of Aggression

Empirical evidence suggests that respondents systematically overreport socially desirable behaviors and systematically underreport socially undesirable behaviors. This "social desirability response bias (SDRB)" presents significant challenges for research that relies on self-report measures to assess behaviors that adhere to or violate social norms. The present study used a state-of-the-art polygraph system to examine SDRB in widely used aggression questionnaires, including the Buss-Perry Aggression Questionnaire-Short Form, the Indirect Aggression subscale of the Aggression Questionnaire by Western Psychological Services, and the Reactive-Proactive Questionnaire. Sixteen college students with no criminal record, no known prior history of aggressive behavior, and no reported drug abuse, responded to verbally administered forms of the instruments. Indirect aggression items produced the largest, statistically significant physiological response across the sampled channels. The magnitude of this response was negatively and significantly correlated with the self-report ratings of the frequency of such behaviors. The mean separation between physiological (skin conductance) and self-report responses for indirect aggression remained significant and consistent with correlational analyses when both types of responses were converted to the same scale and compared directly. Finally, the relative magnitude of skin conductance response for items assessing indirect aggression was significantly greater than the relative magnitude of skin conductance response for direct aggression. Overall, the study suggests that the use of automated state-of-the art polygraph systems may potentially identify sensitive items on self-report instruments where social responsibility response bias is possible. Implications for the use of this procedure with such instruments are discussed.
Biodegradable Stents for Congenital Heart Disease

The quest for an ideal biodegradable stent for both adult coronary and pediatric congenital heart disease applications continues. Over the past few years, a lot of progress has been made toward development of a dedicated pediatric biodegradable stent that can be used for congenital heart disease applications. At present, there are no biodegradable stents available for use in congenital heart disease. In this article, the authors review the different biodegradable materials and their limitations and provide an overview of the current biodegradable stents being evaluated for congenital heart disease applications.
Multimodal imaging in a patient with Prader–Willi syndrome

Prader–Willi syndrome (PWS) is a genetic disease caused by loss of expression of the paternally inherited copy of several genes on the long arm of chromosome 15. Ophthalmic manifestations of PWS include strabismus, amblyopia, nystagmus, hypopigmentation of the iris and choroid, diabetic retinopathy, cataract and congenital ectropion uvea. An overlap between PWS and oculocutaneous albinism (OCA) has long been recognized and attributed to deletion of OCA2 gene located in PWS critical region (PWCR). A 30-year-old male patient with PWS presented with vision loss in his left eye. His right eye had normal visual acuity. Multimodal imaging revealed absence of a foveal depression and extremely reduced diameter of the foveal avascular zone in the right eye and an inactive type 2 macular neovascular lesion in the left eye. We report a presumed association of fovea plana and choroidal neovascularization with PWS. The use of multimodal imaging revealed novel findings in a PWS patient that might enrich our current understanding of the overlap between PWS and OCA.
Prom Week

This paper outlines Prom Week, a game which leverages the social AI system Comme il Faut (CiF) to create a novel experience in which social relationships are playable.
Neutronic and thermal-hydraulic feasibility studies for High Flux Isotope Reactor conversion to low-enriched uranium silicide dispersion fuel

Abstract An iterative design process involving neutronic and thermal-hydraulic modeling and simulation has been employed to assess the feasibility of converting the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR) from high-enriched uranium (HEU) to low-enriched uranium (LEU) silicide dispersion fuel. ORNL is funded by the National Nuclear Security Administration to evaluate HFIR conversion. Previous HFIR conversion studies focused on U-10Mo monolithic fuel; however, due to potential fabrication issues with the complex HFIR U-10Mo fuel design, ORNL is evaluating U3Si2-Al dispersion fuel as an alternative LEU fuel system. Fueled by 10.1 kg of HEU and operated at 85 MW, HFIR provides one of the highest steady-state neutron fluxes of any research reactor in the world. Retrofitting a compact, high-power density, HEU-based core with LEU is a challenging problem to solve, especially when considering the conversion requirements. Neutronic and thermal-hydraulic analyses were performed with Shift and HSSHTC, respectively, to predict reactor performance and thermal safety margins. A number of designs were proposed and evaluated using an iterative approach in an effort to show that reactor performance could match that obtained using HEU fuel and that thermal safety margins were adequate. This study concludes that conversion of HFIR with U3Si2-Al LEU fuel is feasible if, among other requirements, the fuel meat region is centered and symmetric about the fuel plate thickness centerline, the active fuel zone length is increased from 50.80 cm to 55.88 cm, the proposed fabrication tolerances can be met, and the fuel can be qualified for HFIR conditions.
Hierarchical and Divisional Optimal Dispatching Strategy for Active Distribution Network based on Hybrid Particle Swarm Optimization

Randomness and uncertainty of the intermittent renewable energy introduces great challenge on energy management of distribution network, the active distribution network is an important technical to achieve plenty of renewable energy fully consumed, as well as other controllable resources. This paper describes a hierarchical and divisional framework of multi-source coordinated interactive dispatch for active distribution network. In the framework, a local optimization control algorithm of regional distribution network and a global optimization control strategy for active distribution network are proposed. The strategy maximizes the utilization of clean energy and utilizes the renewable energy locally meanwhile guaranteeing stable and optimal operation of active distribution network. Finally, the feasibility and effectiveness of the strategy proposed in this paper is verified through the numerical example.
Investigating the influence of perinatal nicotine exposure on genetic profiles of neurons in the sub-regions of the VTA

Chronic nicotine exposure during pregnancy has been shown to induce physiological and anatomical alterations in offspring. Previously, we investigated the complexity of dopamine (DA) neuron firing in the sub-regions of the ventral tegmental area (VTA) following perinatal nicotine exposure. Using approximate entropy, we found that within the middle sub-region, the parainterfascicular nucleus (PIF), there was higher complexity indicating more random neural firing and a less homogeneous neuron population. Therefore, we sought to investigate the neuron populations within the sub-regions of the VTA following perinatal nicotine exposure. We used real time PCR in order to find the relative quantity of glutamate to γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), DA, and glutamate neurons within three sub-regions: the parabrachial pigmented nucleus (PBP), parainterfascicular nucleus (PIF), and paranigral nucleus (PN). Our results showed that the PIF region of the VTA contained a more diverse population of neurons resulting in a more complex system. In addition, we found that DA neurons are more activated in PN sub-region of the VTA, which mediates the rewarding effects of drugs including nicotine. Lastly, using immunohistochemistry, we observed an overall decrease in DA neurons following perinatal nicotine exposure.
Career Preparation and Choices of Fundamental Christian School Students

AbstractForty years ago, Alan Peshkin began his study of fundamental independent Baptist Christian schools. With time, further insight can be gained on the outcomes of the students from these schoo...
Psychosocial Underpinnings of Pain and Sleep Disturbance in Safety-Net Primary Care Patients

Objective The aim of this study was to uncover possible psychosocial underpinnings of pain and sleep disturbance in a safety-net primary care sample. Methods Patients (n = 210) awaiting care in a safety-net primary care clinic waiting room completed measures of cynical hostility, social support, mental health, sleep disturbance, and pain. This study was cross-sectional and observational. Results A structural equation model suggested that higher cynical hostility was associated with lower social support, which in turn was associated with poorer mental health, which then corresponded with higher pain and sleep disturbance. All possible indirect (mediational) effects within this model were statistically significant, suggesting a possible route through which cynical hostility may shape pain and sleep, two common presenting problems in primary care. Conclusions These findings illustrate the interplay of psychosocial factors with chronic pain and sleep disturbance in a sample of low-income, predominantly African-American patients seeking care at a safety-net primary care clinic. The findings support integrated primary care as a way to target not only behavioral health issues but also the psychosocial factors entangled with physical health.
An Integrative approach to supply chain disruption risk and resilience management: a literature review

A fundamental question in supply chain resilience is identifying its antecedents and investigating the relative importance of each antecedent in improving resilience to supply chain disruptions. In...
“That’s the whole idea of college readiness”: A critical examination of universal Pre-K teachers’ understandings around kindergarten readiness

Abstract This study examines universal Pre-Kindergarten teachers’ understanding of kindergarten readiness through critical lens towards neoliberal narratives of “quality and high return” (Moss, 2014; 2018) and power and knowledge that produce “regime of truth” (Foucault, 1984). In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 14 teachers, transcribed, and analyzed by utilizing thematic analysis. The implications include recognizing where the dominant narratives lie in early childhood education and valuing teachers, especially those of color, is critical to develop a clear definition of readiness with culturally relevant and sustainable approaches. (85)
A Wearable CMOS Impedance to Frequency Sensing System for Non-Invasive Impedance Measurements

In this paper, we demonstrate a novel non-invasive, wearable impedance sensor. The impedance sensor, using an impedance to frequency measurement, with two modes of resistance and capacitance measurement is implemented in CMOS 130 nm technology. The sensor consisting of current and voltage comparators for different mode of measurement, has a low power consumption of 30 $ \mu$ W per channel. The sensor is demonstrated in two applications, thoracic impedance and hand gesture recognition. Thoracic impedance is based on impedance modulation through fluid accumulation. Hand gestures are detected through tissue impedance sensing. The full thoracic impedance sensing system is smaller than a credit card, low cost, and consumes 3 mW which includes the sensor, transmitter, and power control unit. Data received by this sensor can be easily transferred for further processing and, eventually, detection of heart failure. The electrodes were implemented using conductive paint, and the system was validated using passive loads to represent human tissue models and test subjects. The hand gesture system operates on 600 $\mu$ W with the maximum number of electrodes, and uses adhesive copper with electrical paint as electrodes.
When Non-Whiteness Becomes a Condition.

The term "benign ethnic neutropenia" describes the phenotype of having an absolute neutrophil count (ANC) <1500 cells/μL with no increased risk of infection. It is most commonly seen in those of African ancestry. In addition, ANC reference ranges from countries in Africa emphasize that ANC levels <1500 cells/μL are common and harmless. The lower ANC levels are driven by the Duffy null [Fy(a-b-)] phenotype, which is protective against malaria and seen in 80% to 100% of those of sub-Saharan African ancestry and <1% of those of European descent. Benign ethnic neutropenia is clinically insignificant, but the average ANC values differ from what are typically seen in those of European descent. Thus, the predominantly White American medical system has described this as a condition. This labeling implicitly indicates that common phenotypes in non-White populations are abnormal or wrong. We believe that it is important to examine and rectify practices in hematology that contribute to systemic racism.
Exploring User Micro-Behaviors Towards Five Wearable Device Types in Everyday Learning-Oriented Scenarios

With advances in areas such as sensors and machine learning, wearable technologies will have increased potential to support our daily lives. Even though today’s landscape of smart wearable devices ...
Restored ecosystems as instructive tactile landscapes

Restored ecosystems are compelling cultural landscapes. While ecological restoration is commonly posed as the re-creation of historic ecosystem states on damaged landscapes, restoration practices i...
Real-Time Collision Avoidance Manipulator Transfer Movements

Collision free robot manipulator maneuvers for transferring a payload from one location to another in the presence of obstacles are discussed. Such maneuvers are executed by means of two algorithms running in parallel. The first algorithm performs an on-line, one step ahead acceleration optimization, with an adaptive N-step ahead precaution measure to prevent overshooting the specified forbidden joint coordinates. The second algorithm, an on-line planning algorithm, at the same time, selects the current target state and the current forbidden joint coordinates for the first algorithm. Since the task is a point to point transfer movement, the problem is dealt in robot joint space directly and the kinematic problem can be bypassed completely. A simulation example using a 2 degree-of-freedom planner robot is given.
Parametric queries, linear constraints and variable elimination

Various forms of declarative linear arithmetic are introduced in a number of languages from CLP(ℛ) to Mathematica. In order to find canonical representations of constraints, to handle delays of non-linear constraints, to resolve guards in committed choice languages and other related problems, we need to answer a new and more powerful type of queries: parametric linear queries. We propose here a simple mathematical formalism to address that problem. In a first part we show that Fourier's variable elimination procedure and associated elementary theorems allow us to derive directly from their specification a number of interesting sets. For instance we obtain the subsumption cone, which characterizes the set of all linear constraints implied by a set of linear constraints, the convex hull of a collection of polyhedral sets, the separability set which characterizes the hyperplanes separating two given polyhedral sets, and of course the set of answers to a given parametric query. If Fourier's variable elimination is a very powerful conceptual tool telling us what problems we can solve trivially in principle via variable elimination, it is in general hopelessly impractical as it generates for each variable eliminated an exponentially growing set of mostly redundant constraints. In a second part we use a method for variable elimination which rests on a generalization of the notion of objective function in linear programming. It is more efficient than Fourier's procedure as it bypasses all the costly intermediate steps and generates far less redundancy. In a third part we apply that method to solve more efficiently the problem of implicit equalities which is a key component in the computation of canonical representations of linear constraints. In the concluding remarks we mention that such techniques could be used as a basis for a symbolic computation system in the linear case. The main problem faced here is that the size of the output may be exponential. To (partially) overcome this problem we propose a technique to generate very efficiently approximations of the output. These approximations have a small size, they represent spheres rather than polyhedral sets.
Learning value predictors for the speculative execution of information gathering plans

Speculative execution of information gathering plans can dramatically reduce the effect of source I/O latencies on overall performance. However, the utility of speculation is closely tied to how accurately data values are predicted at runtime. Caching is one approach that can be used to issue future predictions, but it scales poorly with large data sources and is unable to make intelligent predictions given previously unseen input data, even when there is an obvious relationship between past input and the output it generated. In this paper, we describe a novel way to combine classification and transduction for a more efficient and accurate value prediction strategy, one capable of issuing predictions about previously unseen hints. We show how our approach results in significant speedups for plans that query multiple sources or sources that require multi-page navigation.