cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Use of middle cerebral velocity and blood pressure for the analysis of cerebral autoregulation at various frequencies: The coherence index

AbstractA common component in many protocols for the evaluation ofcerebral autoregulation is the comparison of transcranial Doppler ultrasound (TCD) velocities with blood pressure recordings, in which correlations between these two signals correspond to impaired autoregulation. With long data sets and complicated paradigms, however, visual inspection alone cannot adequately distinguish random coincidence from consistent correlation in a statistically valid fashion. We suggest and illustrate the use. of the coherence index for this purpose. To illustrate this technique, long-term recordings of TCD velocity and blood pressure were obtained from 6 normal subjects and using 23 data segments from 8 patients following subarachnoid hemorrhage. Each signal was first normalized to its mean, and coherence calculated by dividing the data into qverlapping subintervals and computing an average. Coherence was specifically examined over time periods of 30 sec. Coherence calculations identified correlations between signa...
Myelodysplasia in Childhood and Adolescence

The Nature of the Condition Myelomeningocele—also commonly referred to as meningomyelocele—is a defect of neural tube formation that is akin embryologically to anencephalus. The larger category, spina bifida, includes the benign condition of spina bifida occulta; myelodysplasia is inclusive of all neural tube anomalies. Myelomeningocele is the most common major congenital anomaly in the United States, having an incidence, until recently, of 4 per 1000 births (see Epidemiology). Approximately 80% of all children born having myelomeningocele have associated hydrocephalus. Likewise, nearly all of these children are born having Arnold-Chiari (or Chiari II) malformation of the midbrain and upper spinal cord, which is associated with displacement of the inferior cerebellar vermis, caudal fourth ventricle, and medulla oblongata into the spinal canal. The Arnold-Chiari malformation may cause its own symptom complex, including lower cranial nerve dysfunction, sensory loss, and spasticity. The extent of neurologic, urologic, and orthopedic involvement depends primarily on the level of the lesion (Table 1). Additionally, the work of Luthy et al strongly suggests that if the condition is diagnosed prenatally, infants delivered via cesarean section have significantly less paralysis at 2 years of age than do those who have comparable lesions and who are delivered vaginally. Additional complicating factors and associated findings of myelomeningocele may include:
Ureteropelvic junction obstruction in newborns and infants.

AbstractOf 11 patients <1 year old with ureteropelvic junction obstruction 9 presented with an abdominal mass. The ideal method of evaluation of such patients with an abdominal mass includes sonography followed by isotope renal scan if the mass is determined to be urinary in origin. Visualization by excretory urography in this age group is often impaired by poor renal concentrating ability and excessive bowel gas.Repair was achieved successfully using a nonintubated, nonstented, dismembered pyeloplasty in 10 of 13 kidneys. The average postoperative hospital stay for this group was 4.8 days. Three kidneys were diverted temporarily by nephrostomy, leading to a complication in 1 that required secondary repair. Average postoperative hospital stay in the diverted group was 15 days. Renal function was excellent following repair in all patients, suggesting that early repair is highly desirable in this age group.
An Analog Front-End for a Multifunction Sensor Employing a Weak-Inversion Biasing Technique With 26 nVrms, 25 aCrms, and 19 fArms Input-Referred Noise

An analog front-end (AFE) for a multifunction environmental sensor is proposed. The AFE is designed to be able to sense $1~\mu \text {V}$ , 1 fC, and 1 pA level signals in a low-frequency band around DC, and consists of an instrumentation amplifier (IA), a charge amplifier (CA), and a continuous time delta-sigma (CT- $\Delta \Sigma $ ) ADC. To reduce the low-frequency noise of operational amplifier (OPAMP) which is used for signal path, this paper proposes a weak-inversion biasing technique. The designed IA achieved 26 nVrms input-referred noise (IRN) in the band of 0.1–10 Hz with 0.22 mm2 die area. The designed CA achieved 25 aCrms IRN in charge sensing mode and 19 fArms IRN in current sensing mode in the band of 0.01–1 Hz, respectively, and occupies 0.12 mm2 die area. The AFE has been fabricated in a $0.18~\mu \text {m}$ CMOS process with 4.5 mm2 die area. The current consumption at 2.56 kHz output data rate (ODR) is 2.5 mA, reducing to $2~\mu \text {A}$ at 0.01 Hz ODR.
1030 Centre for child injury prevention studies: case study of national science foundation cooperative research funding

Issue Injury research underfunding and limited translation of findings limits development of new technological solutions. Description of solution The US National Science Foundation (NSF) developed industry-university-government cooperative research centres (I/UCRCs) to provide a mechanism for filling gaps in pre-commercial research and development (R&D). This presentation describes the 10-year experience of the Centre for Child Injury Prevention Studies, a NSF I/UCRC. Results Since 2005, each CChIPS sponsoring company or agency contributed an average of $50,000 annually and provided strategic direction. A NSF evaluator provided oversight. In 2014, sponsor fees from 22 organisations totaled $850,000, up from $300,000 in 2005. Over 10 years, more than 100 CChIPS studies were funded; findings translated into new products, regulations, policies and programs; and students trained in injury science. Conclusions An industry/government/university cooperative research centre model provides a robust and sustainable mechanism for filling gaps in the scientific foundation for injury research.
Design And Development Of A Continuing-education Course For Biomedical Equipment Technicians And Clinical Engineers

An intensive, one-week seminar in biomedical instrumentation follows an outline developed with the help of participants in 50 presentations of the course. The current outline and the history of modifications to it may help planners and directors of curricula in biomedical equipment technology and clinical engineering.
Nitridation induced surface donor layer in silicon and its impact on the characteristics of n- and p-channel MOSFETs

The effects of high-temperature ammonia nitridation on the SiO/sub 2/-Si system have been studied. Unlike previous studies which have focused exclusively on the dielectric properties, this work explores the possible effects on the underlying silicon. Initial results indicate that nitridation introduces nitrogen into the silicon over a depth of approximately 60 nm. Schottky diode and AC surface photovoltage measurements show that the boron-doped nitrogen-rich silicon has n-type characteristics which may be nitrogen-oxygen donor related. The device characteristics of n- and p-MOSFETs using reoxidized nitrided oxide (RONO) gate dielectric are studied. Compared to oxide devices, off-state drain leakage is suppressed in both n- and p-RONO devices. Electron mobility is degraded at low normal field and improved at high normal field, whereas hole mobility degrades at all fields. These unusual characteristics can be qualitatively explained in terms of the formation of nitridation-induced surface donor layer. >
Pediatric colonic volvulus: A single-institution experience and review

Abstract Background/Purpose Pediatric colonic volvulus is both rare and underreported. Existing literature consists only of case reports and small series. We present an analysis of cases (n = 11) over 15 years at a single institution, focusing on workup and diagnosis. Methods This was an institutional review board approved single-institution retrospective chart review of 11 cases of large bowel volvulus occurring over 15 years (2000–2015). Results In our series, the most common presenting symptoms were abdominal pain and distention. Afflicted patients often had prior abdominal surgery, a neurodevelopmental disorder or chronic constipation. Of the imaging modalities utilized in the 11 patients studied, colonic volvulus was correctly diagnosed by barium enema in 100% of both cases, CT in 55.6% of cases and by plain radiography of the abdomen in only 22.2%of cases. Colonic volvulus was confirmed by laparotomy in all cases. The cecum (n = 5) was the most often affected colonic segment, followed by the sigmoid (n = 3). Operative treatment mainly consisted of resection (63.6%) and ostomy creation (36.4%). Colopexy was performed in 18.2% of cases. Conclusions Plain abdominal radiography may be performed as an initial diagnostic study, however, it should be followed CT or air or contrast enema in children where there is high clinical suspicion and who do not have indications for immediate laparotomy. CT may be the most specific and useful test in diagnosis of colonic volvulus and has the added advantage of detection of complications including bowel ischemia. We demonstrate a range of diagnostic and therapeutic modalities for pediatric colonic volvulus. This underscores the need for further study to draft standard best practices for this life-threatening condition. Level of Evidence Prognosis Study: Level IV. Study of a Diagnostic Test: Level III.
Measuring Quality of Life in Owners of Companion Dogs: Development and Validation of a Dog Owner-specific Quality of Life Questionnaire

ABSTRACTNumerous studies have examined the link between companiondog ownership and improved physical or psychological health outcomes; however, few have examined the association between dog ownership and owners’ overall wellbeing or quality of life (QOL). Moreover, the potential for dog ownership to adversely affect owner QOL has been largely ignored. In general, little is known regarding the specific aspects of QOL that are most affected by dog ownership, and there are no instruments specifically designed to assess the QOL of dog owners. If such a tool was available, these effects could be better quantified, understood, and potentially utilized to further improve owner QOL. The aim of the present study was to develop and validate a QOL questionnaire specifically suitable for use in dog owners. A literature review, focus-group activities, and expert content review were used to generate an item pool for the instrument. Both positive and negative effects of dog ownership on QOL were considered. Developmenta...
Modeling of First-Order Photobleaching Kinetics Using Krylov Subspace Spectral Methods

Abstract We solve the first order 2-D reaction–diffusion equations which describe binding-diffusion kinetics using the photobleaching scanning profile of a confocal laser scanning microscope, approximated by a Gaussian laser profile. We show how to solve the first-order photobleaching kinetics partial differential equations (PDEs) using a time-stepping method known as a Krylov subspace spectral (KSS) method. KSS methods are explicit methods for solving time-dependent variable-coefficient partial differential equations. They approximate Fourier coefficients of the solution using Gaussian quadrature rules in the spectral domain. In this paper, we show how a KSS method can be used to obtain not only an approximate numerical solution, but also an approximate analytical solution when using initial conditions that come from pre-bleach steady states and also general initial conditions, to facilitate asymptotic analysis. Analytical and numerical results are presented. It is observed that although KSS methods are explicit, it is possible to use a time step that is far greater than what the CFL condition would indicate.
Design of an 85 GHz quasioptical gyroklystron

An 85 GHz quasioptical gyroklystron has been designed and fabricated. The experiment will investigate longitudinal mode selection, efficiency enhancement, and phaselocking in an open resonator. This paper presents results of cold tests of the prebunching resonator.
The Income — Happiness Relationship

Early in the life cycle material preferences or aspirations are fairly similar among income groups, and those with more income consequently have higher utility, and are happier. Over the life cycle material aspirations rise in proportion to income, undercutting the favorable effect of income growth on utility. The cross sectional difference in happiness by level of income persists,but for any given status group happiness remains constant over the life cycle.
Radioimmunotherapy of Renal Cancer

Renal cancer is an aggressive, radio-resistant cancer, with, until recently, ineffective systemic therapy. Early success with immunotherapy, particularly therapy with high doses of interleukin-2, spurred the investigation of antibodies that target cell surface antigens overexpressed in renal cancer. The incidence of renal cancer has changed with the increasing use of imaging in medical management. Renal masses are now usually detected serendipitously during abdominal imaging for other conditions. Consequently, a greater fraction of these masses are benign and small. This decrease in median size permits curative surgery and decreases the need for subsequent systemic therapy. The recent increase in effective molecular therapies with very acceptable toxicity profiles has led to a further decrease in the need for and study of toxic systemic therapies, including chemotherapy and radioimmunotherapy. It is clear now that the renal cancer with the greatest propensity to metastasis, and hence the only renal cancer for which aggressive systemic therapies may be warranted, is the clear cell phenotype. Carbonic anhydrase-IX is a cell surface antigen overexpressed in the vast majority of clear cell renal cancers, and G250 is an antibody that has been radiolabeled and extensively studied as a therapeutic (and diagnostic) agent in clear cell renal cell cancer (ccRCC). This chapter will review studies with murine and chimeric G250 (girentuximab), with reference to characteristics of systemic macromolecular radiotherapy when relevant. Potential for combination with other systemic therapies will be summarized.
The FTC and the Law of Monopolization

Although Microsoft has attracted much more attention, recent developments at the FTC may have a greater impact on the law of monopolization. From recent pronouncements, the agency appears to believe that in monopolization cases government proof of anticompetitive effect is unnecessary. In one case, the Commission staff argued that defendants should not even be permitted to argue that its conduct lacks an anticompetitive impact. This article argues that the FTC's position is wrong on the law, on policy, and on the facts. Courts have traditionally required full analysis, including consideration of whether the practice in fact has an anticompetitive impact. Even with such analysis, the courts have condemned practices that in retrospect appear not to have been anticompetitive. Given our ignorance about the sources of a firm's success, monopolization cases must necessarily be wide-ranging in their search for whether the conduct at issue in fact created, enhanced, or preserved monopoly power, whether efficiency justifications explain such behavior, and all other relevant issues.
Effects of MgO, ZnO, SrO, and SiO2 in tricalcium phosphate scaffolds on in vitro gene expression and in vivo osteogenesis.

Abstract β‑tricalcium phosphate (β‑TCP) is a versatile bioceramic for its use in many orthopedic and dental applications due to its excellent biocompatibility and biodegradability. Recently, the addition of additives to β‑TCP has been proven to improve bone repair and regeneration, however, the underlying mechanism of enhanced bone regeneration is still unknown. In this study, strontium oxide (SrO), silica (SiO2), magnesia (MgO), and zinc oxide (ZnO) were added to β‑TCP for dense discs fabrication followed by in vitro evaluation using a preosteoblast cell line. Cell viability and gene expression were analyzed at day 3 and day 9 during the cell culture. MgO and SiO2 were found to significantly enhance and expedite osteoblastic differentiation. A potential mechanism was introduced to explain the additive induced osteoblastic differentiation. In addition, in vivo characterizations showed that porous 3D printed MgO-SiO2-TCP scaffolds significantly improved new bone formation after 16 weeks of implantation. This study shows beneficial effects of additives on osteoblastic viability and differentiation in vitro as well as osteogenesis in vivo, which is crucial towards the development of bone tissue engineering scaffolds.
Biomimetic Perception Learning for Human Sensorimotor Control

We present a simulation framework for biomimetic human perception and sensorimotor control. It features a biomechanically simulated, musculoskeletal human model actuated by numerous skeletal muscles, with two human-like eyes whose retinas have spatially nonuniform distributions of photoreceptors. Our prototype sensorimotor system for this model incorporates a set of 20 automatically-trained, deep neural networks (DNNs), half of which are neuromuscular DNN controllers comprising its motor subsystem, while the other half are devoted to visual perception. Within the sensory subsystem, which continuously operates on the retinal photoreceptor outputs, 2 DNNs drive eye and head movements, while 8 DNNs extract the sensory information needed to control the arms and legs. Exclusively by means of its egocentric, active visual perception, our biomechanical virtual human learns efficient, online visuomotor control of its eyes, head, and four limbs to perform tasks involving the foveation and visual pursuit of target objects coupled with visually-guided reaching actions to intercept the moving targets.
A Comparison of Intelligent Signalized Intersection Controllers Under Mixed Traffic

Connected and automated vehicle (CAV) technology has progressed to the point where these vehicles are beginning to appear in traffic streams around the globe. As a result, there is a rising need for similar advances in the technology underlying traffic signal control systems. In this paper, we perform a quantitative and qualitative comparison of two state-of-the-art intelligent signal control systems; namely, the Hybrid Autonomous Intersection Management (H-AIM) [1] system and the Intelligent Intersection Control Algorithm (IICA) [2]. These systems use real-time sensors such as traffic cameras, vehicle-to-infrastructure communication, and real-time optimization and/or decision-making to maximize the efficiency of signalized intersections for CAVs as well as conventional vehicles. We describe the various assumptions under which these systems operate and present simulation results over a range of traffic scenarios and CAV penetration rates. Under the considered headways, IICA achieves the lowest travel times and highest throughput for CAV penetration rates up to around 95%.
Effect of laser power on defect, texture, and microstructure of a laser powder bed fusion processed 316L stainless steel

Abstract The effect of laser power on defect characteristics, microstructure development, constituent phases, and crystallographic texture was studied on a laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) processed 316L stainless steel. A series of specimens was additively manufactured as a function of laser power ranging from 380 to 200 W with a fixed scan speed of 300 mm/s. The density, size, shape, and orientation of pores in as-printed L-PBF cylinders were characterized using high-resolution synchrotron X-ray computed microtomography with a 0.65 μm resolution. The changes in the texture and phases were investigated using high-energy synchrotron X-ray diffraction. The melt pool shape and grain size/orientation were also analyzed using metallography. The results show that the porosity increases linearly from 0.13 to 0.88% with the decrease in laser power. However, even with a decrease in laser power by about half and corresponding seven-fold increase in porosity, the 200 W case can still be considered as nearly fully dense. On the other hand, with the same decrease in the laser power, the cellular spacing was refined from 1.5 to 0.75 μm and the texture changed from strong (200) to random. Therefore, within an optimal porosity range, it is feasible to manipulate microstructure significantly using the control of laser power.
Chapter 23 – Epigenetics of Memory Processes

Epigenetic mechanisms that help regulate gene activity in the central nervous system have historically been thought to be involved exclusively in developmental processes or in disease states. However, recent work argues that these mechanisms, particularly posttranslational modifications of histones and covalent modification of DNA, remain labile through out the life span and are altered by experiences. Indeed, exciting new data indicate that epigenetic regulation of genes is necessary for experience-induced changes in adult brain function and behavior. In this chapter, we focus on this theme and review the data implicating epigenetic mechanisms in neural plasticity and memory formation. As this is still considered a relatively new transcriptional regulatory mechanism in the context of memory formation, we also discuss some of the caveats and limitations of the data.
Thin film photoelectrodes for solar water splitting

Photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting has been intensively studied in the past decades as a promising method for large-scale solar energy storage. Among the various issues that limit the progress of this field, the lack of photoelectrode materials with suitable properties in all aspects of light absorption, charge separation and transport, and charge transfer is a key challenge, which has attracted tremendous research attention. A large variety of compositions, in different forms, have been tested. This review aims to summarize efforts in this area, with a focus on materials-related considerations. Issues discussed by this review include synthesis, optoelectronic properties, charge behaviors and catalysis. In the recognition that thin-film materials are representative model systems for the study of these issues, we elected to focus on this form, so as to provide a concise and coherent account on the different strategies that have been proposed and tested. Because practical implementation is of paramount importance to the eventual realization of using solar fuel for solar energy storage, we pay particular attention to strategies proposed to address the stability and catalytic issues, which are two key factors limiting the implementation of efficient photoelectrode materials. To keep the overall discussion focused, all discussions were presented within the context of water splitting reactions. How the thin-film systems may be applied for fundamental studies of the water splitting chemical mechanisms and how to use the model system to test device engineering design strategies are discussed.
Knowledge, despite Evidence to the Contrary

Can new evidence against what one knows defeat one’s knowledge? It depends on whom you ask. Strong views of knowledge claim that knowing cannot be defeated by counterevidence. Weak views of knowledge claim that knowing can be defeated by counterevidence. I discuss recent versions of those views of knowledge—Maria Lasonen-Aarnio’s and Peter Klein’s, respectively—and argue that both are wanting. Strong views have to account for the defeat intuition (i.e., the inclination some of us have, at least some of the time, to think that knowledge is defeated in particular cases). Weak views have to solve the indeterminacy problem (i.e., explaining, in a principled way, when and why knowledge is defeated). I argue that Lasonen-Aarnio’s view cannot account for the defeat intuition, and that Klein’s view cannot account for the indeterminacy problem. I then offer a novel version of the strong view of knowledge, one that improves on the version previously discussed.
How Many Cases Do I Need

This article addresses the issue of knowing when one has researched enough – thoroughly, and without missing anything. The author argues that there is not a magic number for the “appropriate” amount of cases. The author further explains using the image of a dartboard, one labeled as “Authority” and the other labeled as “Issues,” as a means of evaluating criteria.
Virtual Artistry: Virtual Reality Translations of Two-Dimensional Creativity

This study seeks to provide insight into two-dimensional (2D) artists' approach to three-dimensional (3D) creativity within a virtual environment. Specifically, this research investigates the widespread assumption that Virtual Reality (VR) provides a natural interface by which traditionally 2D-centric artists may explore 3D content creation. Using a prototype of Canvox, a VR tool that uses voxels to represent 3D space with a single stroke [1], we performed a qualitative study in which artists were observed producing familiar assets in a virtual space. Here, we present data on 2D artists' expectations for the User Interface (Space, Navigation, Scale, Tool Accessibility, Lighting), Functionality (Tool Functionality, Materials, Brushes, Primitives), Applications (Communication Mechanisms, Use Cases), and User Mindset (Ideation, Creation, Opportunities) for VR creation. Our results offer insights into the bifurcations between artists' mental models of 2D and VR creativity: in VR, artists expect to create content, while in 2D, artists expect to render representations of content. We also demonstrate the potential use cases of this emerging creative platform.
Underlying Assumptions of Examining Argumentation Rhetorically

Argumentation is the offspring of logic, dialectic, and rhetoric. Differences among them are matters more of degree than of kind, but each reflects basic underlying assumptions. This essay explicates five key assumptions of rhetorical approaches to argumentation: (1) audience assent is the ultimate measure of an argument’s success or failure; (2) argumentation takes place within a context of uncertainty, both about the subject of the dispute and about the process for conducting the dispute; (3) arguers function as restrained partisans and accept risks that follow from such a status; (4) despite its seemingly adversarial nature, argumentation is fundamentally cooperative, pursuing the shared goal of making the best decision; and (5) argumentation is grounded in the situational context of particular cases.
Predicting Instability in Transient Simulations, using Complex Numerical Impulse Response

In this paper, a method for detecting instability of transient simulation of the SPICE equivalent circuit models is presented. The proposed algorithm, uses the behavior of the real/imaginary part of the impulse response obtained from Inverse Laplace Transform (ILT) of the transfer function in pole-zero form, to decide whether the transient simulation will run and converge, or fail.
Method for Data Collection

This chapter specifies the processes through which the researcher decided to create this work. The chapter explains how and why the subject schools were selected. It describes what types of data were and were not gathered, the reasoning behind those decisions, and obstacles faced in the gathering, sorting, and analysis of data. It guides the reader through the organization of the data into chapters, a process that took several attempts before finding a structure that was both informative about dance in HBCUs and also hopefully exciting for the reader. Following this, the researcher acknowledges the limitations of the study’s design and implementation, and potential ramifications of its findings.
Genetic Architecture of Circulating Very-Long-Chain (C24:0 and C22:0) Ceramide Concentrations.

Objective Total ceramide concentrations are linked with increased insulin resistance and cardiac dysfunction. However, recent studies have demonstrated that plasma concentrations of specific very-long-chain fatty ceramides (C24:0 and C22:0) are associated with a reduced incidence of coronary heart disease and all-cause mortality. We hypothesized that specific genetic loci are associated with plasma C22:0 and C24:0 concentrations. Methods Heritability and genome-wide association studies of plasma C24:0 and C22:0 ceramide concentrations were performed among 2,217 participants in the Framingham Heart Study Offspring Cohort, adjusting for cardiovascular risk factor covariates and cardiovascular drug treatment. Results The multivariable-adjusted heritability for C22:0 and C24:0 ceramides was 0.42 (standard error [SE], 0.07; p=1.8E-9) and 0.25 (SE, 0.08; p=0.00025), respectively. Nineteen single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), all on chromosome 20, significantly associated with C22:0 concentrations; the closest gene to these variants was SPTLC3. The lead SNP (rs4814175) significantly associated with 3% lower plasma C22:0 concentrations (p=2.83E-11). Nine SNPs, all on chromosome 20 and close to SPTLC3, were significantly associated with C24:0 ceramide concentrations. All 9 were also significantly related to plasma C22:0 levels. The lead SNP (rs168622) was significantly associated with 10% lower plasma C24:0 ceramide concentrations (p=9.94E-09). Conclusion SNPs near the SPTLC3 gene, which encodes serine palmitoyltransferase long chain base subunit 3 (SPTLC3; part of the enzyme that catalyzes the rate-limiting step of de novo sphingolipid synthesis) were associated with plasma C22:0 and C24:0 ceramide concentrations. These results are biologically plausible and suggest that SPTLC3 may be a potential therapeutic target for C24:0 and C22:0 ceramide modulation.
Angiosarcoma arising in massive localized lymphedema

We report a case of a 70-year-old woman with a BMI of 58 who developed cellulitis refractory to treatment, within an area of massive localized lymphedema. Biopsy showed angiosarcoma. MRI showed multiple lobulated, low T1, high T2 masses within a background of prominent soft tissue septal stranding, dilated lymphatic channels, and skin thickening. CT also showed the mass well, within the background lymphedema. Massive localized lymphedema is increasing in prevalence due to the worsening obesity epidemic. Radiologists should be aware that the presence of a nodule within an area of massive localized lymphedema is suspicious for sarcoma.
Comparison of Path Planning Approaches for Harmful Algal Bloom Monitoring

Harmful algal blooms are an important phenomenon to monitor because of their potential for damaging ecosystems that depend on the affected body of water. A useful instrument to monitor these are Autonomous Underwater Vehicles with attached sensors. In this work, we explore methods to plan vehicle routes that maximize the coverage of sensor readings in algal blooms, as opposed to the traditionally used lawnmower coverage surveys. This is done in order to save time and cover blooms with large spatial extents. To this end, we focus our search on areas of high concentration, ignoring the monitored quality of low concentration areas. We also look to monitor areas of high rates of change, such as the continuous boundary of an algal bloom, to inform marine ecologists of the extent and boundary conditions of a bloom. We use Gaussian process regression to build a map of the concentration of chlorophyll and greedily plan paths using a supplied metric. Our simulation results show that a simple metric can be used to monitor the concentration of chlorophyll as well as the rate of change of the concentration. The results are validated on real and synthetic datasets.
Decentralized formation pose estimation for spacecraft swarms

Abstract For spacecraft swarms, the multi-agent localization algorithm must scale well with the number of spacecraft and adapt to time-varying communication and relative sensing networks. In this paper, we present a decentralized, scalable algorithm for swarm localization, called the Decentralized Pose Estimation (DPE) algorithm. The DPE considers both communication and relative sensing graphs and defines an observable local formation. Each spacecraft jointly localizes its local subset of spacecraft using direct and communicated measurements. Since the algorithm is local, the algorithm complexity does not grow with the number of spacecraft in the swarm. As part of the DPE, we present the Swarm Reference Frame Estimation (SRFE) algorithm, a distributed consensus algorithm to co-estimate a common Local-Vertical, Local-Horizontal (LVLH) frame. The DPE combined with the SRFE provides a scalable, fully-decentralized navigation solution that can be used for swarm control and motion planning. Numerical simulations and experiments using Caltech’s robotic spacecraft simulators are presented to validate the effectiveness and scalability of the DPE algorithm.
Sparse-view, short-scan, dedicated cone-beam breast computed tomography: image quality assessment.

The purpose of this study is to quantify the impact of sparse-view acquisition in short-scan trajectories, compared to 360-degrees full-scan acquisition, on image quality measures in dedicated cone-beam breast computed tomography (BCT). Projection data from 30 full-scan (360-degrees; 300 views) BCT exams with calcified lesions were selected from an existing clinical research database. Feldkamp-Davis-Kress (FDK) reconstruction of the full-scan data served as the reference. Projection data corresponding to two short-scan trajectories, 204 and 270-degrees, which correspond to the minimum and maximum angular range achievable in a cone-beam BCT system were selected. Projection data were retrospectively sampled to provide 225, 180, and 168 views for 270-degrees short-scan, and 170 views for 204-degrees short-scan. Short-scans with 180 and 168 views in 270-degrees used non-uniform angular sampling. A fast, iterative, total variation-regularized, statistical reconstruction technique (FIRST) was used for short-scan image reconstruction. Image quality was quantified by variance, signal-difference to noise ratio (SDNR) between adipose and fibroglandular tissues, full-width at half-maximum (FWHM) of calcifications in two orthogonal directions, as well as, bias and root-mean-squared-error (RMSE) computed with respect to the reference full-scan FDK reconstruction. The median values of bias (8.6 × 10-4-10.3 × 10-4 cm-1) and RMSE (6.8 × 10-6-9.8 × 10-6 cm-1) in the short-scan reconstructions, computed with the full-scan FDK as the reference were close to, but not zero (P 0.118), except along the superior-inferior direction for the short-scan reconstruction with 168 views in 270-degrees (P = 0.046). The variance and SDNR from short-scan reconstructions were significantly improved compared to the full-scan FDK reconstruction (P < 0.0001). This study demonstrates the feasibility of the short-scan, sparse-view, compressed sensing-based iterative reconstruction. This study indicates that shorter scan times and reduced radiation dose without sacrificing image quality are potentially feasible.
Coexpression reveals conserved mechanisms of transcriptional cell identity

ABSTRACT What makes a mouse a mouse, and not a hamster? The answer lies in the genome, and more specifically, in differences in gene regulation between the two organisms: where and when each gene is expressed. To quantify differences, a typical study will either compare functional genomics data from homologous tissues, limiting the approach to closely related species; or compare gene repertoires, limiting the resolution of the analysis to gross correlations between phenotypes and gene family size. As an alternative, gene coexpression networks provide a basis for studying the evolution of gene regulation without these constraints. By incorporating data from hundreds of independent experiments, meta-analytic coexpression networks reflect the convergent output of species-specific transcriptional regulation. In this work, we develop a measure of regulatory evolution based on gene coexpression. Comparing data from 14 species, we quantify the conservation of coexpression patterns 1) as a function of evolutionary time, 2) across orthology prediction algorithms, and 3) with reference to cell- and tissue-specificity. Strikingly, we uncover deeply conserved patterns of gradient-like expression across cell types from both the animal and plant kingdoms. These results suggest that ancient genes contribute to transcriptional cell identity through mechanisms that are independent of duplication and divergence.
William Cheng, Just Vibrations: The Purpose of Sounding Good: Ann Arbor, MI, University of Michigan Press, 2016, xvii, 180 pp., $24.95 (paperback), ISBN-13 978-0-47205-325-4

William Cheng’s Just Vibrations is unique: part memoir, part activist manifesto, part scholarly exercise on sound, music, disability, queer theory, and games, all with a noble challenge to the read...
Feedforward prediction error signals during episodic memory retrieval.

Our memories enable us to form expectations for our future experiences, yet the precise neural mechanisms underlying how we compare any experience to our memory remain unknown. Here, using intracranial EEG recordings, we show that episodic memories formed after a single visual experience establish expectations for future experience within neocortical-medial temporal lobe circuits. When subsequent experiences violate these expectations, we find a 80–120 Hz prediction error signal that emerges in both visual association areas and the medial temporal lobe. Critically, this error signal emerges in visual association areas first and then propagates to the medial temporal lobe. This error signal is accompanied by alpha coherence between the two regions. Our data therefore suggest that internal models formed from episodic memories are generated throughout the visual hierarchy after just a single exposure, and that these internal models are then used for comparison with future experiences. Haque et al. demonstrate that the episodic memory of a single visual scene is sufficient for humans to recognize if a visual scene has subsequently changed. A prediction error signal first arises in the visual association cortex when individuals recognize these changes.
A Flexible Piezo-Composite Ultrasound Blood Pressure Sensor with Silver Nanowire-based Stretchable Electrodes

Monitoring blood pressure based on ultrasound demonstrates unique advantages over many other existing techniques such as noninvasiveness, preciseness, and convenience. However, conventional ultrasonic transducers/arrays are mostly developed with a rigid front, resulting in difficulty in maintaining a conformal contact with soft human skin in a setting of wearable devices. Here, we present a flexible ultrasound blood pressure sensor which was fabricated by a piezoelectric 1-3 composite and silver nanowire-based stretchable electrodes. Due to its flexibility, this sensor can be mounted onto skin without any constriction of body movement and discomfort. The prototyped flexible sensor was evaluated for blood pressure measurements. Specifically, blood vessel diameter variations were detected and translated into blood pressure waveforms. The findings suggest a great potential of this flexible ultrasound pressure sensor for wearable sensor applications.
The Southern California Twin Register at the University of Southern California: II

The Southern California Twin Register was initiated in 1984 at the University of Southern California, and continues to grow. This paper provides an update of the register since it was described in the 2002 special issue of this journal. The register has expanded considerably in the past four years, primarily as a result of recent access to Los Angeles County birth records and voter registration databases. Currently, this register contains nearly 5000 twin pairs, the majority of whom are school age. The potential for further expansion in adult twins using voter registration records is also described. Using the Los Angeles County voter registration database, we can identify a large group of individuals with a high probability of having a twin who also resides in Los Angeles County. In addition to describing the expansion of register, this paper provides an overview of an ongoing investigation of 605 twin pairs who are participating in a longitudinal study of behavioral problems during childhood and adolescence. Characteristics of the twins and their families are presented, indicating baseline rates of conduct problems, depression and anxiety disorders, and ADHD diagnoses which are comparable to non-twins in this age range.
Use of Econometric Models to Estimate Disease-Specific Shares of Medical Expenditures

Rationale: Researchers conducting burden of disease studies often want to apportion existing medical expenditures to particular conditions. Typically, the contribution of particular conditions to costs is calculated by constructing the following counterfactual: compared with current spending, how much less would be spent if nobody in the population had the condition? However, when applied individually for a set of conditions, the separate cost estimates, each expressed as a fraction of total expenditures, can add up to be greater than 100%. Objectives: This study addresses the use of regression models to calculate disease-specific shares of medical expenditures. The objectives of this study are 1) to show how the choice of empirical models affects the interpretation of counterfactuals as shares of expenditures and 2) to show how to use common multiplicative models such as ordinary least squares (OLS) on log expenditures, nonlinear least squares, and generalized linear models (GLM) to estimate shares of expenditures. Methodology: The properties of popular estimators are analyzed with respect to their consequences for the resulting expenditure shares. We present several recommendations for researchers interested in using econometric methods to estimate shares of expenditures for medical conditions or risk factors. Recommendations range from functional form assumptions to redefined counterfactuals. We demonstrate our recommendations using numerical examples and an empirical example with data on prescription expenditures in the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS). Results: Incremental effects of conditions on expenditures, expressed as a fraction of total expenditures, can only be interpreted as shares if expenditures are additively separable in conditions. When expenditure functions are multiplicative (e.g., OLS on log expenditures), incremental effects depend on other conditions. If these are summed across conditions, a portion of expenditures associated with jointly-occurring conditions will be double-counted. The proposed alternative counterfactual calculations avoid double-counting. Conclusions: Researchers must be careful when interpreting regression-based cost-of-illness estimates, especially with multiple conditions of interest. Commonly used empirical models in health economics, such as OLS on log expenditures, nonlinear least squares, and GLM, are multiplicative and will lead to double-counting of costs across diseases. The recommended counterfactual calculations in this paper are straightforward, eliminate double-counting in the expenditure shares, and can be implemented in a variety of circumstances.
From On-Campus to Online Undergraduate Research Experience in Psychology: Transition During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

The outbreak of COVID-19 at the beginning of 2020 resulted in a global impact on higher education. This instant change in the research, teaching, and training environment from on-campus to online influenced the “Research Experience in Psychology” courses offered by Purdue’s Department of Psychological Sciences. We report results of a survey of faculty members that contained closed- and open-ended questions relating to the changes and challenges faced by them with the transition that occurred in the spring 2020 semester. The survey also included questions regarding alteration of the activities for the course during the fall 2020 semester, when the university campus was re-opened with protective safety procedures and a curriculum consisting of in-person, hybrid, and fully online learning. The survey results showed not only negative aspects of the changes on the undergraduate research experience, but also positive outcomes associated with engagement in different activities and extensive use of online communication. Lessons learned from such knowledge and implications for renovating and developing undergraduate research experience programs in the future are discussed.
The Persistent Transboundary Problem in Marine Natural Resource Management

Shared natural resources are vulnerable to overexploitation. Countries have established national borders on land and exclusive economic zones (EEZs) in the world's oceans in part to better control exploitation of local resources, but transboundary resources---those that span multiple national jurisdictions---are still subject to incentives for overextraction. We investigate the magnitude and distribution of this "transboundary problem" as it manifests in global fisheries. We show that internationally-shared fisheries exhibit lower relative abundance, on average, than those contained in single EEZs, even in the presence of extraction agreements and modern management practices. Additionally, for the first time we show that the degree of sharing---the number of countries sharing a resource and the spatial balance of each country's share---matters in driving the severity of the transboundary problem. Alleviating the transboundary problem for the fisheries we investigate would result in an estimated 4 to 17 million metric tons more fish in the ocean. In the future, growing human demand and climate change will likely exacerbate pressures on transboundary resources, requiring coordinated international governance solutions.
Affect and Online Privacy Concerns

Privacy risks are pervasive and while considerable work is available on cognitive aspects of privacy concern, very little is known about the emotional/affective aspect of privacy risk. Recent experimental evidence, suggests that contextual cues, rather than deliberate evaluation of costs and benefits of privacy, affect people’s privacy behaviors. This finding raises fundamental questions about the role of privacy concern in theory, the measurement of privacy concern and also in its utility in explaining privacy behavior in real-life decisions. Affect, a “faint whisper of emotion” which occurs automatically in any evaluation of risk and influences risk perception and evaluation, has received lot of attention in the literature. In this research, we examine the relative role of affect and cognition on people’s judgments of privacy risk. An experiment is proposed.
The Pregnant Surgical Patient

The incidence of non-obstetric surgery in pregnant patients is 0.2–1.0%.1 The most common surgeries are appendectomy (1/2,000 pregnancies)2 and cholecystectomy (1–6/10,000 pregnancies).
Thermospheric basis functions for improved dynamic calibration of semi‐empirical models

[1] State-of-the-art satellite drag models require upgrades to meet operational Precision Orbit Determination requirements for collision avoidance, reentry predictions and catalog maintenance. However, accurate model representations of thermospheric density are not currently possible without the use of data assimilation, or model calibration. Furthermore, due to sparse data sampling in the thermosphere, such calibration has only been successfully demonstrated by fitting the available data to a low-dimensional model. The High Accuracy Satellite Drag Model (HASDM), used operationally by the Space Surveillance Network to aid in the tracking of low-earth orbiting satellites, compensates for errors in the Jacchia-70 static diffusion model by fitting a truncated set of spherical harmonics to a subset of recent satellite tracking data. We present a technique to derive a set of basis functions better suited to capturing the spatial variability and response of the thermosphere. By comparing the uncompensated Jacchia-70 model with the Thermosphere-Ionosphere-Electrodynamic General Circulation Model (TIEGCM), we create a new set of orthogonal basis functions that can be used to calibrate semi-empirical models such as HASDM with increased accuracy in the presence of sparse data. An initial analysis of the new approach, driven by synthetic data, shows a 32.9% improvement in the RMS error over the current implementation of HASDM.