cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Medium-Grain Reconfigurable Architecture for DSP: VLSI Design, Benchmark Mapping, and Performance

Reconfigurable hardware has become a well-accepted option for implementing digital signal processing (DSP). Traditional devices such as field-programmable gate arrays offer good fine-grain flexibility. More recent coarse-grain reconfigurable architectures are optimized for word-length computations. We have developed a medium-grain reconfigurable architecture that combines the advantages of both approaches. Modules such as multipliers and adders are mapped onto blocks of 4-bit cells. Each cell contains a matrix of lookup tables that either implement mathematics functions or a random-access memory. A hierarchical interconnection network supports data transfer within and between modules. We have created software tools that allow users to map algorithms onto the reconfigurable platform. This paper analyzes the implementation of several common benchmarks, ranging from floating-point arithmetic to a radix-4 fast Fourier transform. The results are compared to contemporary DSP hardware.
Concurrent, Overlapping Development and the Dynamic System Analysis of a Software Project

In recent years concurrent, overlapping development activities of engineering tasks have proved to be a cost-effective and time-efficient way to build products geared toward meeting the demands of a competitive and quality-conscious market. In this study, we examine the structure and dynamics of a software project in information technology industrial research and development that has this methodology as its foundation. We first describe a number of software engineering aspects of the project that elucidate how various development activities in its concurrently unfolding component projects are overlapped and integrated to gradually build the product over time. Using the mathematical tools of dynamic systems analysis, we next derive a number of results that characterize the long-term, stable behavior of the project. These results are then used in a numerical simulation to illustrate a procedure by which relevant resources can be distributed across the components in a way that maintains continued stability of the project over time. Our modeling approach is flexible enough to allow the theoretical results and the simulation techniques to be easily generalized to study, in real time, the stability, maintenance, and management of similar concurrent projects. The usefulness of the method lies in motivating and refining managerial decisions that drive overlapping development activities of such projects.
Lord Justice of Appeal John Fletcher Moulton and explosives production in World War I: ‘the mathematical mind triumphant’

At the end of November 1914 Lord Moulton (1844–1921) became the director of explosives production in the War Office. A 70-year-old jurist may seem an extraordinary choice, but he was an extraordinary man. He was Senior Wrangler at Cambridge, was elected to the Royal Society for research on electricity, and learned about chemistry as a barrister for dye and explosives manufacturers. He assembled an able team of administrators and chemists who designed and managed mammoth new national explosives factories. They could not make enough TNT and picric acid from obtainable precursors, so Moulton persuaded the reluctant armed services to adopt mixtures of TNT and ammonium nitrate, which enabled them to make even more than was needed. In mid-1915 they moved to the new Ministry of Munitions, where they also became responsible for fertilizers and poison gases. In 1917 they produced explosives at a higher rate than was attained in World War II.
Relationships of Depression, Hopelessness, and Dysfunctional Attitudes to Suicide Ideation in Psychiatric Patients

Computerized versions of the Beck Depression Inventory, Hopelessness Scale, Dysfunctional Attitude Scale, and Scale for Suicide Ideation were administered to 50 inpatients diagnosed with mixed psychiatric disorders and 25 outpatients diagnosed with affective disorders. The scale scores were positively related to suicide ideation and the magnitudes of the correlations were comparable. Controlling for a prior suicide attempt, a stepwise multiple-regression analysis indicated that the Beck Depression Inventory and Dysfunctional Attitude Scale contributed unique variance to the explanation of the inpatients' Scale for Suicide Ideation scores. Only the Beck Depression Inventory contributed unique variance to the explanation of the outpatients' Scale for Suicide Ideation scores. A stepwise multiple-regression analysis of the 40 Dysfunctional Attitude Scale items on the inpatients' Scale for Suicide Ideation scores showed six dysfunctional attitudes (perfectionism and sensitivity to social criticism) explained a...
Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (pol30) mutations suppress cdc44 mutations and identify potential regions of interaction between the two encoded proteins.

Abstract In addition to its role as a processivity factor in DNA replication, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) may function in the regulation of cell cycle progression. We present genetic evidence that PCNA interacts with the gene product of CDC44, an essential nucleotide-binding protein that encodes the large subunit of yeast replication factor C (K. Fien and B. Stillman, personal communication). Mutations in POL30 (PCNA) suppress cold-sensitive alleles of cdc44 that contain mutations in or near nucleotide-binding consensus domains, but they do not suppress a null allele. Thus, it appears that PCNA interacts with Cdc44p but cannot substitute for its function. pol30 mutations suppress additional phenotypes of cdc44 mutations, including the cold sensitivity that they were selected to suppress. This observation suggests an intimate association between PCNA and Cdc44p. Each of five independent pol30 mutants contains a unique single mutation that maps to a localized region on one face of the predicted three-dimensional structure of PCNA. This face identifies a region likely to be important for functional interaction between the CDC44 and POL30 gene products.
Overcoming the Hurdle of First Cost: Action Research in Target Costing

Advocates of sustainable and evidence-based design initiatives argue that building owners can secure favorable internal rates of return when full life cycle building costs are considered. While the argument has merit, these decision-makers express concern about overcoming the hurdle of first cost. To reduce first cost, a number of lean construction practitioners are exploring a planning and design process called target costing. Target costing in construction is a collaborative cost management process that relies on business plan validation to determine what is to be delivered and what the client is willing and able to pay for a project—before establishing the allowable cost. When warranted, a target cost may be set even lower than the allowable cost in order to spur innovation. Once a target cost has been established, the project is collaboratively designed to that target cost. This case study examines the target costing techniques used during the design of an 850,000 square foot (approximately 79,000 square meters) medical center. Qualitative and quantitative outcomes are explored, as well as implications for future projects.
On improving the accuracy of the Hough transform: theory, simulations, and experiments

The authors present two methods for very-high-precision estimation of straight-line parameters from the Hough transform and compare them with the standard method of taking the absolute peak in the Hough array and with least-squares fitting using both extensive simulation and a number of tests with real target images. Both methods use preprocessing and interpolation in the Hough array, and are based on compensating for effects that cause a spreading of the peak in Hough space. By interpolation, the authors achieve accuracy better than the accumulator cell size. A complete set of simulations show that the two methods produce similar results, which are much better than taking the absolute peak in Hough space. They also compare well with least-square fitting, which was considered optimal in the case of zero mean noise. Results of experiments with real images are reported, confirming that the Hough transform can yield very accurate results, almost as good as least-squares fitting for zero mean noise. >
A switched-current, switched-capacitor temperature sensor in 0.6-/spl mu/m CMOS

A temperature-to-digital converter is described which uses a sensor based on the principle of accurately scaled currents in the parasitic substrate p-n-p in a standard fine-line CMOS process. The resulting PTAT /spl delta/V/sub BE/ signal is amplified in an auto-zeroed switched-capacitor circuit, sampled, and converted to a digital output by a low-power 10-bit SAR ADC providing a resolution of 0.25/spl deg/ from -55/spl deg/C to 125/spl deg/C with an error of less than 1/spl deg/. A single adjustment of temperature error is provided for wafer probe. No further calibration is required. A switching bandgap reference circuit will also be described which uses similar techniques to generate an accurate low-noise reference voltage for the ADC. The circuits are part of a multichannel data-acquisition system where other input voltages must also be sampled and measured, and so the speed and power of the ADC is not determined by the temperature sensor alone. For continuous operation, the supply current is 1 mA, but a low-power mode is provided where the part is normally in shut down and only powers up when required. In this mode, the average power supply current at 10 conversions/s is 0.3 /spl mu/A. The supply voltage is 2.7-5.5 V.
Prevention of Adolescent Substance Abuse: Choosing and Implementing a Program

Adolescent substance abuse is a major concern for addictions nurses and for society in general. This escalating problem requires increased attention, and addictions nurses are prepared to lead this effort by implementing existing prevention programs. In this article, a paradigm for prevention science is reviewed—this involves a classification system of universal, selective, and indicated prevention. Addictions nurses are encouraged to use this framework to help identify the type of program most appropriate for a particular teen or group of teens. Exemplary prevention programs are reviewed, and criteria for the selection of a prevention program are presented. Because funding for programs is often dependent on use of a program that has demonstrated efficacy, carefully developed and tested programs should be used to prevent adolescent substance abuse. These efforts should not be delayed.Prevention of substance abuse is an important area of focus for addictions nurses. This is relevant for those who work with...
The effect of ouabain and external potassium on the ion transport of rabbit red cells.

Na efflux of rabbit RBC is approximately 10 mmoles/kg wet weight. hr. One-half of this consists of a ouabain-insensitive exchange diffusion component. Ouabain inhibits 2.5 mmoles/kg.hr of Na efflux. K influx is 3.0 mmoles/kg.hr; 2.2 mmoles/kg.hr are inhibited by ouabain. In contrast with human RBC, ouabain inhibition of Na efflux and K influx of rabbit RBC is easily reversible. After 2 hr, ouabain inhibition of Na efflux is completely compensated for by increased internal Na concentration and Na efflux returns to initial levels. Removal of ouabain at this stage results in stimulation of the efflux by 4.3 mmoles/kg.hr. Na influx is initially not affected by ouabain but is increased by 2.4 mmoles/kg.hr after 2 hr incubation with the drug. Removal of K from normal Ringer does not affect Na efflux and increases Na influx by 1.6 mmoles/kg.hr. Addition of ouabain to K-free Ringer inhibits Na efflux and influx to the same extent (1.6 mmoles/kg.hr). Removal of Na from K-free Ringer has an inhibitory effect on efflux similar to that of ouabain. These findings suggest that the fraction of Na efflux inhibited by removal of external K is completely replaced by a new, ouabain-sensitive exchange diffusion of Na ions.
Whole-Exome Sequencing Analyses of Inflammatory Bowel Disease−Associated Colorectal Cancers

Background & Aims A long duration of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) increases the risk for colorectal cancer. Mutation analysis of limited numbers of genes has indicated that colorectal tumors that develop in patients with IBD differ from those of patients without IBD. We performed whole-exome sequencing analyses to characterize the genetic landscape of these tumors. Methods We collected colorectal tumor and non-neoplastic tissues from 31 patients with IBD and colorectal cancer (15 with ulcerative colitis, 14 with Crohn's disease, and 2 with indeterminate colitis) and performed whole-exome sequencing analyses of the microdissected tumor and matched nontumor tissues. We identified somatic alterations by comparing matched specimens. The prevalence of mutations in sporadic colorectal tumors was obtained from previously published exome-sequencing studies. Results Two specimens had somatic mutations in the DNA proofreading or mismatch repair genes POLE , MLH1 , and MSH6 and the tumor cells had a hypermutable phenotype. The remaining tumors had, on average, 71 alterations per sample. TP53 was the most commonly mutated gene, with prevalence similar to that of sporadic colorectal tumors (63% of cases). However, tumors from the patients with IBD had a different mutation spectrum. APC and KRAS were mutated at significantly lower rates in tumors from patients with IBD than in sporadic colorectal tumors (13% and 20% of cases, respectively). Several genes were mutated more frequently or uniquely in tumors from patients with IBD, including SOX9 and EP300 (which encode proteins in the WNT pathway), NRG1 (which encodes an ERBB ligand), and IL16 (which encodes a cytokine). Our study also revealed recurrent mutations in components of the Rho and Rac GTPase network, indicating a role for noncanonical WNT signaling in development of colorectal tumors in patients with IBD. Conclusions Colorectal tumors that develop in patients with IBD have distinct genetic features from sporadic colorectal tumors. These findings could be used to develop disease-specific markers for diagnosis and treatment of patients with IBD and colorectal cancer.
A novel framework for metric-based image registration

The registrations of functions and images is a widely-studied problem that has seen a variety of solutions in the recent years. Most of these solutions are based on objective functions that fail to satisfy two most basic and desired properties in registration: (1) invariance under identical warping: since the registration between two images is unchanged under identical domain warping, the cost function evaluating registrations should also remain unchanged; (2) inverse consistency: the optimal registration of image A to B should be the same as that of image B to A. We present a novel registration approach that uses the L2 norm, between certain vector fields derived from images, as an objective function for registering images. This framework satisfies symmetry and invariance properties. We demonstrate this framework using examples from different types of images and compare performances with some recent methods.
PREDICTION OF HEARTH EROSION FOR No.7 BLAST FURNACE AT ANSHAN IRON AND STEEL(GROUP)CO.

On the basis of the thermal flow intensity temperature distribution in the hearth and slag and liquid iron temperature,a prediction method has been developed to estimate the hearth erosion through simulating the temperature distribution of the hearth with self-baking carbon brick and ceramic brickwork as a lining by means of Kriging's method.Some key parameters for optimum operation of the blast furnaces and for hearth erosion prediction can be given by this method.
Enucleation combined with hepatic vascular exclusion is a safe and effective alternative to hepatic resection for liver cell adenoma.

Liver cell adenomas are benign, rare tumors that occur primarily in women with a history of oral contraceptive use. Surgical treatment is recommended to reduce the risk of sudden, unpredictable hemorrhage or malignant transformation, but mortality rates of 5 to 8 per cent are reported for major hepatic resections. This report summarizes an experience of eight patients with liver cell adenoma treated by enucleation or resection, alone or combined with hepatic vascular exclusion (HVE). The latter technique, originally described in the mid-1960s, markedly reduces operative blood loss associated with hepatic resection. All eight patients were women of child-bearing age, and seven reported previous oral contraceptive use
Acoustic scattering from phononic crystals with complex geometry

This work introduces a formalism for computing external acoustic scattering from phononic crystals (PCs) with arbitrary exterior shape using a Bloch wave expansion technique coupled with the Helmholtz-Kirchhoff integral (HKI). Similar to a Kirchhoff approximation, a geometrically complex PC's surface is broken into a set of facets in which the scattering from each facet is calculated as if it was a semi-infinite plane interface in the short wavelength limit. When excited by incident radiation, these facets introduce wave modes into the interior of the PC. Incorporation of these modes in the HKI, summed over all facets, then determines the externally scattered acoustic field. In particular, for frequencies in a complete bandgap (the usual operating frequency regime of many PC-based devices and the requisite operating regime of the presented theory), no need exists to solve for internal reflections from oppositely facing edges and, thus, the total scattered field can be computed without the need to consider internal multiple scattering. Several numerical examples are provided to verify the presented approach. Both harmonic and transient results are considered for spherical and bean-shaped PCs, each containing over 100 000 inclusions. This facet formalism is validated by comparison to an existing self-consistent scattering technique.
Performance of task functions by A.D.A. dietetic technicians.

Are A.D.A dietetic technician members performing the tasks for which they have been trained? Does their training prepare them adequately for their responsibilities?
Incidental hypermetabolic PET positive lesions in thyroid and pituitary glands in a patient with lung cancer: A case of two uncommon findings in a single patient

Abstract A 60-year-old man who was recently diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma underwent 18F-FDG positron emission tomography/computed tomography (FDG PET/CT) scan for staging. The FDG PET/CT scan showed incidental hypermetabolic uptake in the pituitary gland and focal hypermetabolic activity in the left thyroid lobe. Histopathologic evaluation revealed these to be a non-functioning pituitary adenoma and papillary thyroid cancer, respectively. Incidental hypermetabolic uptake in the pituitary and thyroid glands on FDG PET/CT scan are uncommon. It is important to determine their etiologies as this may lead in some cases to incorrect staging of the primary cancer and, therefore, inappropriate clinical management. In this case report we will discuss the clinical presentation and the imaging findings of this patient and review the related literature.
The Effects of the Pericardium on Function of Normal and Enlarged Hearts

In summary, the pericardium is a membranous structure that surrounds the heart. Its physical properties are such that it is distensible when the total intrapericardial volume is small and inextensible when total intrapericardial volume is large. The pericardium serves to limit acute cardiac distention and to modulate the phenomenon of ventricular interdependence. It is a dynamic structure that, when subjected to chronic stretching--either due to the gradual accumulation of intrapericardial fluid or to cardiac enlargement--will grow to accommodate its contents, such that the working range of pressures between it and the surface of the heart is low. The precise level of cardiac distention that is necessary to engage the pericardium is unknown, but studies in normal and dilated hearts suggest that, at the upper end of the normal volume range of the heart, the intrapericardial volume is just sufficient to reach the noncompliant portion of the tissue's length-tension relation. Further studies are needed to determine whether this behavior represents a hemodynamic protective mechanism in normal animals.
Effects of Ionizing Radiation and Anaerobic Refrigerated Storage on Indigenous Microflora, Salmonella , and Clostridium botulinum Types A and B in Vacuum-Canned, Mechanically Deboned Chicken Meat †.

Vacuum-canned, commercial, mechanically deboned chicken meat was challenged with either Clostridium botulinum spores (20 strains of types A and B, proteolytic; final spore concentration of ca. 400/g of meat) or Salmonella enteritidis (ca. 104 CFU/g of meat) followed by irradiation to 0, 1.5, and 3.0 kGy and storage at 5°C for 0, 2, and 4 weeks. None of the samples stored at 5°C developed botulinal toxin; however, when these samples were temperature abused at 28°C they became toxic within 18 h and had obvious signs of spoilage, i.e., swelling of the can and a putrid odor. During 4 weeks of refrigerated storage the log10 of the population of S. enteritidis in nonirradiated samples decreased from 3.86 to 2.58. S. enteritidis CFU were detectable in samples irradiated to 1.5 kGy at 0 weeks but not in samples irradiated to 3.0 kGy. Log levels of aerobic and facultative mesophiles increased during 4 weeks of refrigerated storage from 6.54 to 8.25, 4.03 to 8.14, and 2.84 to 5.23 in samples irradiated to 0, 1.5, and 3.0 kGy, respectively. Based on taxonomic analyses of 245 isolates, the bacterial populations depended upon radiation dose and storage time. The change was predominantly from gram-negative rods in nonirradiated samples to gram-positive streptococci in samples irradiated to 3.0 kGy and stored for 4 weeks. Spoilage organisms survived even the 3.0 kGy treatment.
Mechanisms and Diagnosis of Hepatic Disease

There is a multitude of causes of liver injury and a variety of ways in which the liver may react to them. Recognition of the nature of any hepatic disease rests on a thorough understanding of the effects of the various etiological agents, the multiple ways in which these agents can react in different patients, and the specific tests that can aid in their recognition. Without attempting to concentrate on any specific hepatic diseases, save for the congenital disorders of bilirubin metabolism, this chapter explores the major pathways that hepatic injury may follow, the various effects of injury on hepatic morphology, and the tests and procedures that can help to clarify the cause of the clinical picture. Plain abdominal radiography, percutaneous liver biopsy, radionuclide scanning of the liver, oral cholecystography, intravenous cholangiography, gray scale ultrasonagraphy, etc. can used for diagnosis of hepatic diseases.
Differentiation of nerve-derived adult pluripotent stem cells into osteoblastic and endothelial cells

Abstract Background Context Stem cell-involved tissue engineering has gained dramatic attention as a therapeutic strategy for tissue regeneration including bone repair. However, the currently available possibilities to use embryonic stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPCs) face potential ethical issues, as well as risks of malignant transformation and immune rejection. Recently identified peripheral nerve-derived adult pluripotent stem cells (NEDAPS) that quickly proliferate after exposure to bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) or nerve trauma and exhibit many embryonic stem cell characteristics may provide an attractive source cells for a variety of regenerative therapies. Purpose The study aimed to examine the differentiation potential of the NEDAPS cells into osteoblastic cells and endothelial cells. Study Design/Setting An in vitro investigation was undertaken to induce mouse NEDAPS cells into the phenotypes of osteoblastic and endothelial cells. Methods NEDAPS cells were isolated from low-dose BMP-2-exposed mouse sciatic nerves by collagenase and trypsin extraction. The cells were cultured in a stem cell maintenance medium, and the expression of KLF4, Sox2, c-Myc, and Oct4 before differentiation was confirmed. The cells were then subcultured in a complete osteogenic cell induction medium or endothelial cell growth medium, respectively, at 37°C and 5%CO 2 atmosphere. Histologic, morphologic, and molecular assessments were performed 7 days later. Results The cells propagated in complete osteogenic medium for 7 days showed strong staining for type I collagen and alkaline phosphatase, suggesting the structural and functional properties of the osteoblastic cells. Further, real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) revealed a significant expression of the osteoblast markers osteocalcin, osteopontin, and type I collagen. Similarly, the cells in endothelial growth medium were successfully differentiated into cobblestone-shaped endothelial cells expressing vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptors Flk-1 and Flt-1 demonstrated by RT-PCR. Conclusions NEDAPS cells are readily induced to osteoblastic and endothelial cells, suggesting therapeutic potential for bone repair and other regenerative therapies.
Approaches to Selecting Sustainable Technologies for Remediation of Contaminated Sites: Case Studies

Conventional remediation technologies are designed and implemented with the aim of achieving reduction of contaminant concentrations to meet the remedial goals in a cost-effective and timely manner. On the contrary, green and sustainable remediation (GSR) is a holistic approach to remediation which helps reduce the overall environmental impact by weighing out different technically feasible remedial options and selecting the one with minimal impact. This paper provides in-depth information pertaining to the application of GSR at three different contaminated sites in Illinois, USA. All the three sites had varied contaminant characteristics and site-specific conditions for which different remedial options were evaluated. Environmental site assessment reports were reviewed, and the final recommendations for remedial action (RA) were made based on conducting a qualitative as well as quantitative comparison between technically feasible remedial options using available tools to quantify the sustainability metrics, such as Green Remediation Evaluation Matrix (GREM), Illinois Greener Cleanups Matrix, Sustainable Remediation Technology (SRTTM), and SiteWiseTM. Remedial Action Plans (RAPs) were developed by incorporating best management practices (BMPs), and the use of coupled-treatment techniques (remedial train) was proposed and designed for site-specific conditions along with detailed cost estimates and expected time frame to achieve the remedial goals. Long-term monitoring and maintenance plans were also included in the proposed RAPs.
Preparing Citrated Non-Activated Gamma Globulin for Rapid Infusion.

Abstract Human plasma is our most valuable source of therapeutic proteins, and intravenous gamma globulin (IVIg) is the most widely used plasma derivative. Traditional yields of the product from alcohol fractionation are not optimal; added to this, viral contamination and other well known side effects, including fever and aseptic meningitis, continue to be of concern. A method of precipitating very high yields of cryoprecipitable proteins with sodium citrate (“Supercryoprecipitation”) has been previously described. A by-product of “Supercryoprecipitation” is a very clean cryoprecipitate-free plasma supernatant, with a citrate concentration of 5% to 6% (w/v). When up to 10% (w/v) additional citrate is introduced into the supernatant, there is a preferential precipitation of nearly 100% of the remaining gamma globulin. Immunoglobulin G (IgG) yield was measured by radial immunodiffusion (86.3% ± 12.5%). IgG, being the largest fraction of gamma globulin, is most often used as a measure of product quality. Protein electrophoresis of the citrate precipitation product showed very little contamination by other plasma fractions (albumin: 9.8% ± 3.3%, alpha globulin: 1.6% ± 0.6%, beta globulin: 3.9% ± 1.2%, gamma globulin 84.3% ± 13.8%). Unlike present protein precipitation methods, citrate precipitation does not rely on denaturation, thereby better preserving the native structure of immunoglobulin. This may lead to improved tolerance during infusion, and may allow for more rapid infusion rates, or improved subcutaneous infusion. Stability and safety studies are currently underway. Considering the current unsettled climate in the world, the potential for improved gamma globulin therapies and supply should not be overlooked.
Effect of oxytocin pretreatment on cannabis outcomes in a brief motivational intervention

Motivational enhancement therapy (MET) is efficacious in reducing cannabis use, yet benefits are generally short-lived. Oxytocin is a hypothalamic neuropeptide that promotes prosocial behaviors and plays a role in drug-related neuroadaptations; as such, oxytocin may enhance the effect of MET on cannabis outcomes. Cannabis dependent adults were randomized to receive MET plus oxytocin (n =8) or placebo (n =8). Participants receiving oxytocin showed reductions in amount of cannabis used daily and number of sessions per day. Participants receiving placebo did not evidence significant reductions. Powered clinical trials of oxytocin-enhanced MET for cannabis use disorder are warranted.
CRT-400.06 Radiographic Findings Of Distressed Intravascular Implants Predict High-Grade Venous Stenosis Or Occlusion And Successful Reparative Endovascular Procedures

To describe the radiographic appearance of distressed intravascular implants as a predictor of venous stenosis or occlusion and to determine the success of reparative endovascular procedures. 73 patients with distressed stents or inferior vena cava (IVC) filters characterized by pursing,
An improved two-stage procedure to compare hazard curves

ABSTRACTQiu and Sheng has proposed a powerful and robust two-stage procedure to compare two hazard rate functions. In this paper we improve their method by using the Fisher test to combine the asymptotically independent p-values obtained from the two stages of their procedure. In addition, we extend the procedure to situations with multiple hazard rate functions. Our comprehensive simulation study shows that the proposed method has a good performance in terms of controlling the type I error rate and of detecting power. Three real data applications are considered for illustrating the use of the new method.
The Portrait in Fiction of the Romantic Period / Portrait Stories

These studies of the interrelations between the portrait and prose fiction are usefully read together. Although they diverge in decisive ways in their approaches, choice of readings, and time perio...
Female Activists in Tunisian Socio-Political Movements. The Case of Amira Yahyaoui

Boumlik investigates the subject of female activists in Tunisia after the revolution, focusing on the case of Amira Yahyaoui, a former blogger and the leader of an active NGO (al-bawsala). The major battle front of al-bawsala is the push for a transparency law which would force the Constituent Assembly to publish its deliberations and make the texts of laws available to citizens. Faced with resistance from the government and the Constituent Assembly, al-bawsala launched marsad.tn with the purpose of monitoring the Constituent Assembly and allowing Tunisian citizens to interact with its members. The purpose of this contribution is to shed light on the role of Amira Yahyaoui and her cause. In following her trajectory, the chapter highlights the emergence of a new experience within the transition in Tunisia.
Correlations between sedimentation sign, dural sac cross-sectional area, and clinical symptoms of degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis

In this study, we addressed the correlation between the cross-sectional area (CSA) of the dural sac and the nerve root sedimentation sign (SedSign) and the correlation between the distance of claudication and the CSA of the dural sac or SedSign in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis. We also evaluated the reliability of clinical symptom prediction. We checked claudication distance using a questionnaire, and we gauged low back pain when standing, referred pain, and radiating pain using visual analog scale scores. Three observers measured the CSA of the dural sac and SedSign, and normal nerve root sedimentation was classified as negative (N) and the absence of nerve root sedimentation was positive (P). P was sub-classified as positive with room [P(+); empty space apparent in the dura] or positive without room [P(−); no empty space in the dura]. SedSign reflected ongoing sedimentation inside the spinal canal of the nerve roots. We demonstrated negative sedimentation for the nerve root except for exiting nerve roots that settled into more than half of the dorsal region of the spinal canal and positive sedimentation as compressed nerve roots or as distribution of nerve roots that conglomerated from the ventral to the dorsal part of the equator as nerve roots. We evaluated functional outcomes using the Oswestry Disability Index and Roland–Morris Disability Questionnaire. One-way ANOVAs, Chi square tests, and correlation analyses evaluated the correlation CSAs and SedSigns. The total CSAs for the 716 sites were 98.63 ± 34.38 for N, 76.78 ± 28.78 for P(+), and 55.43 ± 27.77 for P(−), which were all statistically significant (p = 0.01). The correlations between pain and SedSign were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). There was no statistical significance in the correlations between the distance of the claudication and the CSA of the dura sac and the SedSign and between the functional score and the SedSign (both p > 0.05). Increasing severity of SedSign indicates progressively smaller dural sac CSA, but there is an inconsistent association with clinical symptoms. Therefore, it is reasonable to suggest that spinal stenosis is severe in patients with severe symptoms.
Using EEG Signal to Analyze IS Decision Making Cognitive Processes

In this paper, we demonstrate how electroencephalograph (EEG) signals can be used to analyze people’s mental states while engaging in cognitive processes during IS decision-making. We design an experiment in which participants are required to complete several cognitive tasks with various cognitive demands and under various stress levels. We collect their EEG signals as they perform the tasks and analyze those signals to infer their mental state (e.g., relaxation level and stress level) based on their EEG signal power.
The Genetic Diathesis of Eating Disorders: Critical Roles for Puberty and Ovarian Hormones

Abstract This chapter illustrates the importance of puberty and ovarian hormones amongst genetic factors that have roles in eating disorders (in addition to cultural and environmental factors). These genetic influences are dynamic and increase dramatically following the onset of puberty in girls. Ovarian hormone (i.e., estrogen and progesterone) activation at puberty appears to contribute to these pubertal increases and the genetic diathesis of eating disorders. As well as giving details of these hormonal influences on eating disorders the authors highlight the need for future studies to examine genetic, psychosocial, environmental, and cultural risk factors to develop a more comprehensive model of biopsychosocial influences on eating disorders.
Rough and Fuzzy Sets for Data Mining of a Controlled Vocabulary for Textual Retrieval

We present an approach to text retrieval, incorporating data mining of a controlled i.e., vocabulary mining, in order to improve retrieval Performance. In gener al, formal queries presented to a retrieval System axe not optimized for retrieval efficiency or effectiveness. Vocabulary mining allows us to transform the query via Operations such as generalization or specialization. We offer a new framework for vocabulary mining, combining rough sets and fuzzy sets, allowing us to use rough set approximations when the documents and queries are described us-ing weighted, i.e., fuzzy, representations. We also explore generalized rough sets, variable precision models, and coordinating multiple vocabulary views. Finally, we present a preliminary analysis of the application of our proposed framework to a modern controlled vocabulary, the Unified Medical Language System. The proposed framework supports the systematic study and application of different vocabulary views within the textual Information retrieval model.
177Lu-DOTATATE Peptide Receptor Radionuclide Therapy.

The peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) 177Lu-DOTATATE binds to somatostatin receptors ([1][1]). A multidisciplinary team should be involved when treating patients with 177Lu-DOTATATE PRRT, including medical oncologists, nuclear medicine physicians and technologists, nurses, radiation
Outcomes After Massive Transfusion in Trauma Patients: Variability Among Trauma Centers.

Abstract Background Exsanguinating trauma patients often require massive blood transfusion (defined as transfusion of 10 or more pRBC units within first 24 h). The aim of our study is to assess the outcomes of trauma patients receiving massive transfusion at different levels of trauma centers. Methods Two-y (2013-2014) retrospective analysis of the American College of Surgeons Trauma Quality Improvement Program. We included all adult trauma patients who received massive transfusion (MT) of blood. Outcome measures were mortality, hospital length of stay, intensive care unit–free and ventilator-free days, blood products received, and complications. Results We analyzed a total of 416,957 patients, of which 2776 met the inclusion criteria and included in the study. Mean age was 40.6 ± 20 y, 78.3% were males and 33.1% of the injuries were penetrating. Median injury severity score [IQR] was 29 [18-40], median [IQR] Glasgow Coma Scale 10[4-15]. Mean packed red blood cells transfusion in the first 24 h was 20 ± 13 units and mean plasma transfusion was 13 ± 11 units. Overall in-hospital mortality was 43.5%. Receiving MT in level I trauma center was independently associated with lower rates of mortality (odds ratio [OR]: 0.75 [0.46-0.96], P Conclusions Hemorrhage continues to remain one of the most common cause of death after trauma. Almost half of the patients who received massive transfusion died. Patients who receive massive blood transfusion in a level I trauma centers have improved survival compared with level II trauma centers.
All work and no play: Addressing medical students' concerns about duty hours on the surgical clerkship.

Abstract Background Given the option of preferencing rotations for a 3rd year core surgery clerkship, we observed students often requested services perceived as less time-intensive. We compare self-reported duty hours with academic outcomes. Methods We examined duty hours from 165 third-year medical students on a surgery clerkship at a single institution for academic year 2016–2017. Partial correlations and logistic regression modeling were used to assess the number of hours medical students worked on academic outcomes. Results Medical student duty hours did not significantly correlate with the NBME Surgery Subject examination score (r = 0.08; p = 0.34), CPE score (r = 0.14; p = 0.09) or a clerkship grade of Honors (OR 0.993; CI 0.925–1.065). Prior completion of an internal medicine clerkship was correlated with a higher NBME Surgery Subject examination score (r = 0.27; p Conclusion This analysis demonstrates duty hours on a surgical clerkship do not correlate with academic performance. These data can be used to counsel students on career planning and choosing surgical rotations based on interest and not perceived workload.
Quality of life and anxiety in children and adolescents in residential treatment facilities

Anxiety-related impairment among youth in residential treatment facilities is common, but quality of life (QOL) among this intensive, treatment-seeking population remains largely unexplored. The pu...
Co-Simulation of Improved AIMD Algorithm for Decentralized Charging of Electric Vehicles

Mass adoption of Electric Vehicles (EVs) will bring some challenges to the operators of electric utilities. This paper proposes a decentralized control algorithm to manage the charging of distributed EVs. The proposed algorithm is inspired by the Additive Increase - Multiplicative Decrease (AIMD) algorithm, which is commonly used for the management of communication network congestions. The improved algorithm takes into consideration the preferences of the owners of the EVs. Also, it eliminates the overloading and the under-voltage problems that might be associated with the charging of EVs. The proposed algorithm is validated using a co-simulation platform, where the power components are simulated using MATLAB/Simulink and is linked to embedded microcontrollers over a real-time communication network via the Data Distribution System (DDS) middleware.
Brief Introduction to Sheaf Theory

In this chapter, we introduce the prerequisites needed later on (in Chapter 6) for the sheaf-theoretic description of intersection homology groups.
SAIDuCANT: Specification-Based Automotive Intrusion Detection Using Controller Area Network (CAN) Timing

The proliferation of embedded devices in modern vehicles has opened the traditionally-closed vehicular system to the risk of cybersecurity attacks through physical and remote access to the in-vehicle network such as the controller area network (CAN). The CAN bus does not implement a security protocol that can protect the vehicle against the increasing cyber and physical attacks. To address this risk, we introduce a novel algorithm to extract the real-time model parameters of the CAN bus and develop SAIDuCANT, a specification-based intrusion detection system (IDS) using anomaly-based supervised learning with the real-time model as input. We evaluate the effectiveness of SAIDuCANT with real CAN logs collected from two passenger cars and on an open-source CAN dataset collected from real-world scenarios. Experimental results show that SAIDuCANT can effectively detect data injection attacks with low false positive rates. Over four real attack scenarios from the open-source dataset, SAIDuCANT observes at most one false positive before detecting an attack whereas other detection approaches using CAN timing features detect on average more than a hundred false positives before a real attack occurs.
Optimizing Duration of Empiric Management of Suspected Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections in Pediatric Patients with Intestinal Failure.

Objectives To assess whether a 24-hour length of hospitalization and empiric antibiotic therapy to exclude central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) in children with intestinal failure is potentially as safe as 48 hours, which is the duration most commonly used but not evidence based. Study design A prospective single-institution observational cohort study was conducted among pediatric patients with intestinal failure from July 1, 2015, through June 30, 2018, to identify episodes of suspected CLABSI. The primary end point was time from blood sampling to positive blood culture. Secondary end points included presenting symptoms, laboratory test results, responses to a parent/legal guardian-completed symptom survey, length of inpatient stay, costs, and charges. Results Seventy-three patients with intestinal failure receiving nutritional support via central venous catheters enrolled; 35 were hospitalized with suspected CLABSI at least once during the study. There were 49 positive blood cultures confirming CLABSI in 128 episodes (38%). The median time from blood sampling to positive culture was 11.1 hours. The probability of a blood culture becoming positive after 24 hours was 2.3%. Elevated C-reactive protein and neutrophil predominance in white blood cell count were associated with positive blood cultures. Estimated cost savings by transitioning from a 48-hour to a 24-hour admission to rule-out CLABSI was $4639 per admission. Conclusions A 24-hour duration of empiric management to exclude CLABSI may be appropriate for patients with negative blood cultures and no clinically concerning signs. A multi-institutional study would more robustly differentiate patients safe for discharge after 24 hours from those who warrant longer empiric treatment.
The NO–cGMP–PKG pathway in skeletal remodeling

The nitric oxide (NO)-cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP)-protein kinase G (PKG) pathway plays a critical role in skeletal homeostasis. Preclinical data using NO and its donors and genetically modified mice demonstrated that NO was required in bone remodeling and partly mediated the anabolic effects of mechanical stimuli and estrogen. However, the off-target effects and tachyphylaxis of NO limit its long-term use, and previous clinical trials using organic nitrates for osteoporosis have been disappointing. Among the other components in the downstream pathway, targeting cGMP-specific phosphodiesterase to promote the NO-cGMP-PKG signal is a viable option. There are growing in vitro and in vivo data that, among many other PDE families, PDE5A is highly expressed in skeletal tissue, and inhibiting PDE5A using currently available PDE5A inhibitors might increase the osteoanabolic signal and protect the skeleton. These preclinical data open the possibility of repurposing PDE5A inhibitors for treating osteoporosis. Further research is needed to address the primary target bone cell of PDE5A inhibition, the contribution of direct and indirect effects of PDE5A inhibition, and the pathophysiological changes in skeletal PDE5A expression in aging and hypogonadal animal models.
Diffusion tensor imaging analysis in three progressive supranuclear palsy variants

Clinical variants of progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) include the classic Richardson’s syndrome (PSP-RS), as well as cortical presentations such as PSP-speech/language (PSP-SL) and subcortical presentations such as PSP-parkinsonism (PSP-P). Patterns of white matter tract degeneration underlying these variants, and the degree to which white matter patterns could differentiate these variants, is unclear. Forty-nine PSP patients (28 PSP-RS, 12 PSP-P, and 9 PSP-SL) were recruited by the Neurodegenerative Research Group and underwent diffusion tensor imaging. Regional diffusion tensor imaging metrics were compared across PSP variants using Bayesian linear mixed-effects models, with inter-variant differentiation assessed using the area under the receiver operator characteristic curve (AUROC). All three variants showed degeneration of the body of the corpus callosum, posterior thalamic radiation, superior cerebellar peduncle, internal and external capsule, and superior fronto-occipital fasciculus. PSP-RS showed greater degeneration of superior cerebellar peduncle compared to PSP-P and PSP-SL, whereas PSP-SL showed greater degeneration of body and genu of the corpus callosum, internal capsule, external capsule, and superior longitudinal fasciculus compared to the other variants. Fractional anisotropy in body of the corpus callosum provided excellent differentiation of PSP-SL from both PSP-P and PSP-RS (AUROC = 0.91 and 0.92, respectively). Moderate differentiation of PSP-RS and PSP-P was achieved with fractional anisotropy in superior fronto-occipital fasciculus (AUROC = 0.68) and mean diffusivity in the superior cerebellar peduncle (AUROC = 0.65). In this pilot study, patterns of white matter tract degeneration differed across PSP-RS, PSP-SL, and PSP-P, with the body of the corpus callosum showing some utility in the differentiation of PSP-SL from the other two variants.