cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Anomalous Point Defect Injection During Pulsed Laser Melting Processes: Direct Evidence of Ga i and As i Profiles in GaAs

Significant point defect injection during a pulsed laser melt process is reported for the first time. Heteroepitaxial InxGa1-xAs/GaAs layers fabricated by a pulsed laser induced epitaxy technique are used in this study. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) and secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) are employed to study the redistribution behavior of each species on the atomic scale. It is found that both the Si dopant species and the Ga, As, and In host atoms are injected into the underlying GaAs substrate. These species are then significantly redistributed, forming near spherical As-rich regions. Direct evidence of As i and Ga i (Ga and As interstitialcies) profiles in the GaAs substrate are also obtained for the first time. A hypothesis, based upon the combined effects of concentration impulse and large temperature gradients across the liquid-solid interface, is proposed to explain the significant solid phase diffusion observed during the pulsed laser melting process. We estimate the temperature gradient induced electric field during the process to be on the order of 104 V/cm.
Central venous catheter related thrombosis

Central vein thrombosis is increasingly recognized as a long-term problem of chronic venous access. The incidence, causative factors, and diagnosis of central vein thrombosis are discussed, along with preventative measures and treatment strategies.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: Etiopathogenetic Considerations

Although the etiology of rheumatoid arthritis remains unknown, recent evidence seems to suggest that pathogenetic mechanisms are multifactorial. Genetic predisposition, perhaps mediated by the HLA system, may render an individual susceptible to the action of an undefined microbial agent, most likely a virus, resulting in the triggering of an inflammatory reaction that, if unchecked, will lead to the development of synovitis and eventually to tissue destruction. It is quite possible that similar pathogenetic events play a role in some of the extra-articular manifestations of the disease, including Felty’s and Sjogren’s syndromes, and vasculitis. Further understanding of the mechanisms involved in the disease process may result in new therapeutic approaches.
Identifying Kittlitz's Murrelet nesting habitat in North America at the landscape scale

Abstract The Kittlitz's murrelet Brachyramphus brevirostris is a small, noncolonial seabird endemic to marine waters of Alaska and eastern Russia that may have experienced significant population decline in recent decades, in part because of low reproductive success and terrestrial threats. Although recent studies have shed new light on Kittlitz's murrelet nesting habitat in a few discrete areas, the location and extent of suitable nesting habitat throughout most of its range remains unclear. Here, we have compiled all existing nest records and locations to identify landscape-scale parameters (distance to coast, elevation, slope, and land cover) that provide potential nesting habitat in four regions: northern Alaska, Aleutian Islands, Alaska Peninsula Mountains and Kodiak Island, and Pacific Coastal Mountains (including nearshore interior Canada). We produced a final map classifying 12% (70,411 km2) of the lands assessed as potential Kittlitz's murrelet nesting habitat, with dense but distinct patches in n...
Effect of Insecticide Seed Treatment on Safening Rice from Reduced Rates of Glyphosate and Imazethapyr

Field experiments were conducted in 2013 and 2014 to evaluate the effect of insecticide seed treatments on exposure of young conventional rice to reduced rates of glyphosate and imazethapyr. During the two-year study, “Roy J” rice seed was treated with CruiserMaxx® Rice, thiamethoxam plus fungicide, or a fungicide-only treatment. Subsequently, glyphosate (Roundup PowerMax®) at 39.42, 78.76, or 157.54 g ae/ha or imazethapyr (Newpath®) at 4.39, 8.74, or 17.49 g ai/ha was applied at the 2- to 3-leaf growth stage of rice. Results in 2013 indicated that rice plants from seed treated with CruiserMaxx Rice exhibited significantly less injury 1, 3, and 6 weeks after either imazethapyr or glyphosate was applied in comparison to the plants having fungicide-only treated seed. The addition of an insecticide seed treatment also resulted in higher yields when both herbicides were applied compared to the fungicide-only seed treatment receiving the same herbicide treatments. In 2014, an overall decrease in injury from both herbicides was observed when rice seed was treated with CruiserMaxx Rice compared to receiving a fungicide-only seed treatment. Significant yield loss from low rates of glyphosate or imazethapyr was not observed in 2014, with or without a seed treatment. Based on the positive effects observed from the CruiserMaxx Rice seed treatment in reducing injury and maintaining rice yields, the insecticide seed treatment appears to provide some safening to rice against low rates of glyphosate and imazethapyr.
Abstract 42: A new type of drug resistance in cancer: extracellular ATP-induced resistance through ATP internalization and ATP-drug competition

Drug resistance is a major problem in cancer therapies and responsible for most relapse, one of the major causes of death in cancer. Several cancer drug resistance mechanisms are known, including genetic mutations in protooncogenes or tumor suppressor genes, cancer stem cells, and multi-drug resistance (MDR). Among these mechanisms, MDR is ATP-dependent. Intratumoral (extracellular) ATP levels of various cancer types are 10⁁3 to 10⁁4 times higher than those in their corresponding normal tissues but the biological significance of the high intratumoral ATP concentrations is unknown. We recently reported that extracellular ATP is internalized by cancer cells via macropinocytosis and enhances their growth and survival (1). Based on these results, we hypothesized that the internalized ATP also promotes drug resistance. Here we report that extracellular ATP, at concentrations in or below the range of reported intratumoral ATP levels, substantially increased intracellular ATP levels and promoted cancer cell drug resistance to tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) sunitinib in human NSCLC A549 cells. The ATP increase and the drug resistance were mediated, at least in part, by macropinocytosis, clathrin- and caveolae-mediated endocytoses. The elevated intracellular ATP induced upregulated phosphorylation of PDGFR and proteins/enzymes in the PDGFR-mediated signaling pathways, such as Akt, mTOR, Raf and MEK, resulting in augmented cell growth and reduced apoptosis induced by sunitinib. The upregulated phosphorylation was not mediated by purinergic receptor signaling. Furthermore, in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo, extracellular ATP partially restored phosphorylation levels of PDGRF and its downstream proteins/enzymes inhibited by sunitinib, a PDGFR inhibitor (TKI). These results strongly suggest that the extracellular ATP-increased intracellular ATP reversed the inhibition of TKIs by competing with the inhibitors for the ATP-binding site of PDGFR, enhancing the Akt-mTOR and Raf-MEK signaling pathways and promoting cancer cell survival. All these findings significantly expand our understanding of the roles of extracellular ATP in the Warburg effect (2) and drug resistance in cancer and indentify a new anti-drug resistance target. 1. Qian Y, Wang X, et al., Cancer Lett. 351(2014): 242-5. 2. Chen X, Qian Y, Wu S. Free. Radic. Biol. Med. 79(2015): 253-263. Citation Format: Xuan Wang, Yunsheng Li, Yanrong Qian, Yanyang Cao, Xiaozhuo Chen. A new type of drug resistance in cancer: extracellular ATP-induced resistance through ATP internalization and ATP-drug competition. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 107th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2016 Apr 16-20; New Orleans, LA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(14 Suppl):Abstract nr 42.
Reexploring the rotating-slit as a collimator for adaptive SPECT

We have developed a SPECT gamma photon ray-tracing method based on the SolidWorksTM stereolithography (.STL) file format that models penetration, scatter, and fluorescence in the design work flow[1]. With this powerful tool, now we are able to model various kinds of novel SPECT systems including those with moving collimators. In this work, the configuration of a rotating-slit aperture in combination with a 1D or 2D detector is revisited, and the method of virtual pinhole synthesis is discussed. Our preliminary simulation results indicate an increasing advantage with decreasing aperture size due to the relatively larger sensitivity of slit apertures compared to real pinhole apertures.
Towards first-principles molecular design of liquid crystal-based chemoresponsive systems.

Nematic liquid crystals make promising chemoresponsive systems, but their development is currently limited by extensive experimental screening. Here we report a computational model to understand and predict orientational changes of surface-anchored nematic liquid crystals in response to chemical stimuli. In particular, we use first-principles calculations to evaluate the binding energies of benzonitrile, a model for 4′-pentyl-4-biphenylcarbonitrile, and dimethyl methylphosphonate to metal cation models representing the substrate chemical sensing surface. We find a correlation between these quantities and the experimental response time useful for predicting the response time of cation–liquid crystal combinations. Consideration of charge donation from chemical species in the surface environment is critical for obtaining agreement between theory and experiment. Our model may be extended to the design of improved chemoresponsive liquid crystals for selectively detecting other chemicals of practical interest by choosing appropriate combinations of metal cations with liquid crystals of suitable molecular structure. Nematic liquid crystals have potential as sensors for various molecules. Here, the authors present a computational chemistry model for describing the detection of a warfare agent by liquid crystals, opening the door for the atomic-scale design of sensitive and selective chemoresponsive systems.
On the Narrowband Interference Cancellation Scheme in OFDM Communication Systems in Frequency Selective Fading Channels

A common impairment in both wireless and wireline orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) schemes is narrowband interference (NBI). NBI has the detrimental effect of making the tones on which the NBI falls and in some cases neighboring tones unusable, thus reducing the effective signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the system. Some examples of mechanisms that generate NBI are switched mode power supplies and legacy communication systems [1]. Recently, a novel method for minimizing the SNR degradation due to NBI was proposed in [2], [3] which required knowledge of only the NBI frequencies. The method notches only one tone per interferer. In this paper, we analyze how the above algorithm performs in frequency selective channels. Theoretical SNR bounds are derived as a function of the number of interferers, channel gains and noise power and validated via numerical simulations. The bounds show that under the assumption of an idealized front-end and ideal NBI frequency estimation, the performance of the algorithm does not depend on the NBI power or phase. A sensitivity analysis of the algorithm due to NBI frequency estimation errors is also performed and the theoretical results are validated via numerical simulations.
Impact of the New Kidney Allocation System on Perioperative Outcomes and Costs in Kidney Transplantation.

Background In December 2014, a new kidney allocation system (KAS) was implemented nationwide with the goal of improving longevity matching, increasing access to sensitized patients, and improving racial/ethnic disparities. Study Design National cohort study of US kidney transplantation programs, analyzing hospital-level outcomes (October 2012 to June 2016) using University HealthSystem Consortium data. In-hospital outcomes and costs were analyzed for trends over time using interrupted time series analysis with segmented regression. Results There were 38,016 kidney transplantation procedures analyzed during the 3.8-year period. Over time, there was a mean increase of 2.7 cases/month (95% CI −0.02 to 5.4; p = 0.059), unaffected by KAS (18.9 case increase; p = 0.5601). Implementation of KAS led to significant changes in patient demographics, including a decrease in age (−2.8 years; p Conclusions Policy changes in organ allocation can have a significant impact on perioperative costs and outcomes, which can have a downstream influence on transplantation center perisurgical care processes.
The significance of a fatty hilum within an FDG avid lymph node

1077 Objectives: A fatty hilum within a lymph node on CT is considered a benign characteristic. Yet, at times there is associated FDG activity. This study examines the nature of FDG uptake within nodes with a fatty hilum on PET/CT. Methods: 11 PET/CT scans for cancer staging that had increased FDG uptake in lymph nodes with fatty hila were retrospectively reviewed. Benign or malignant etiology were determined by clinical and imaging follow-up. 95% bootstrap confidence intervals were computed to assess the mean differences in SUVmax and short-axis nodal diameter between benign and malignant nodes. Results: Twelve lymph nodes from eleven patients with FDG uptake and fatty hila had a mean SUV of 4.7 ± 2.7 (range: 2.2 to 11.4), and a mean diameter of 1.2 cm ± 0.4 (range: 0.7 to 1.6 cm). Six lymph nodes were of malignant etiology. The mean SUV of the malignant nodes was 5.3 ± 3.7 with a mean diameter of 1.4 cm ± 0.4. Six lymph nodes were of benign etiology. Mean SUV of the benign nodes was 4 ± 1.4 with a mean diameter of 1 cm ± 0.2. Confidence intervals for the mean SUV and diameter differences are (-4.43, 1.27) and (-0.733, -0.0667), respectively. Conclusions: Hypermetabolic activity in a lymph node with a fatty hilum may be of benign or malignant etiology. The 95% confidence interval for SUV overlaps zero, indicating no evidence of a difference in SUV between benign and malignant nodes. There is weak evidence to support that malignant nodes are larger. The presence of a fatty hilum should not dissuade further investigation in the proper clinical scenario.
Recryptor: A reconfigurable in-memory cryptographic Cortex-M0 processor for IoT

This paper proposes Recryptor, an energy efficient and compact ARM Cortex-M0 based reconfigurable cryptographic processor using in-memory computing. Recryptor is capable of accelerating a wide range of cryptography algorithms and standards, including public/private key cryptography and hash functions, by augmenting the memory of a commercial general purpose IoT processor resulting in a highly compact implementation. The wide bit-width of memory is ideally suited for high bitwidth (64–512b) arithmetic operations common in cryptographic functions. Recryptor (28.8 MHz at 0.7 V) achieves 6.8× average speedup and 12.8× average energy improvements over state-of-the-art software and hardware-accelerated implementations with only 0.128 mm2 area overhead in 40nm CMOS.
Open-source coupled aerostructural optimization using Python

To teach multidisciplinary design optimization (MDO) to students effectively, it is useful to have accessible software that runs quickly, allowing hands-on exploration of coupled systems and optimization methods. Open-source software exists for low-fidelity aerodynamic or structural analysis, but there is no existing software for fast tightly coupled aerostructural analysis and design optimization. To address this need, we present OpenAeroStruct, an open-source low-fidelity aerostructural analysis and optimization tool developed in NASA’s OpenMDAO framework. It uses the coupled adjoint method to compute the derivatives required for efficient gradient-based optimization. OpenAeroStruct combines a vortex lattice method and 1-D finite-element analysis to model lifting surfaces, such as aircraft wings and tails, and uses the coupled-adjoint method to compute the aerostructural derivatives. We use the Breguet range equation to compute the fuel burn as a function of structural weight and aerodynamic performance. OpenAeroStruct has proved effective both as an educational tool and as a benchmark for researching new MDO methods. There is much more potential to be exploited as the research community continues to develop and use this tool.
Using Weights with a Text Proximity Matrix

In previous work, we introduced a way of encoding free-form documents called the bigram proximity matrix (BPM). When this encoding was used on a corpus of documents, where each document is tagged with a topic label, results showed that the documents could be classified based on their tagged meaning. In this paper, we investigate methods of weighting the elements of the BPM, analogous to the weighting schemes found in natural language processing. These include logarithmic weights, augmented normalized frequency, inverse document frequency and pointwise mutual information. Results presented in this paper show that some of the weights increased the proportion of correctly classified documents.
Analysis for an Active Robot Hand

For some manufacturing tasks, an arm and wrist provide sufficient dexterity while a passive gripper holds the object. When human beings insert large metal parts into fixtures, or use power tools such as grinders and air wrenches, they wrap their hands around the part or tool and make fine motions with their wrists. However, for more delicate manufacturing tasks a hand with actively controlled fingers may be needed.
Electronic physician ratings and reviews process.

209Background: According to JAMA, Public Awareness, Perception, and Use of Online Physician Rating Sites; 35% of patients selected a physician based on good ratings, and 37% avoided one with bad ratings. Yet, there exists a stark difference between unstructured (i.e. Yelp) online reviews as compared to validated survey-generated data. A national network of hospitals that specializes in treating patients with complex cancer had been collecting patient satisfaction data using a validated tool administered by a 3rd party for some time. An electronic physician rating and review process was implemented as an adjunct to that survey process, providing a new mechanism for consumers visiting the networks’ website with accurate information about patients’ satisfaction with its oncologists. Methods: Physician ratings are obtained directly from patients who had an encounter using two specific questions regarding confidence and likelihood to recommend. Ratings are posted by physician and maintained on a 12-month rolli...
Electrocorticographic Activity of the Brain During Micturition

Current therapies for neurogenic bladder do not allow spinal cord injury patients to regain conscious control of urine storage or voiding. Novel neural technologies may provide means to improve or restore the connection between the brain and the bladder; however, the specific brain areas and their underlying neural activities responsible for micturition must be better understood in order to design such technologies. In this retrospective study, we analyzed electrocorticographic (ECoG) data obtained from epilepsy patients who underwent ECoG grid implantation for epilepsy surgery evaluation, in the hopes of determining specific electrophysiological activity associated with micturition. Our results indicate modulation of the delta (δ, 0.1-4 Hz) and low-gamma (\gamma, 25-50 Hz) activity in the peri-Sylvian area and the inferior temporal lobe. These findings suggest involvement of the insular cortex and the uncinate fasciculus in micturition, important structures related to sensation and decision making. To date, this is the first known study utilizing ECoG data to elucidate the electrophysiological activity of the brain associated with bladder control and sensation.
Error Correction and Detection for Computing Memories Using System Side Information

Error correction and detection are the core components of all modern memory systems. Current computing memory systems use simple coding schemes to simultaneously meet the resiliency and latency requirements. In this paper, we review our recent results on context-aware coding for computing memories, an approach that explicitly takes into account various intrinsic side information for improved robustness to faults. We discuss both error correction and detection, codes’ theoretical properties, and provide examples of how these solutions can be implemented in practice. We explicitly describe the special case of the error localization codes. We also discuss promising future directions and connections with classical information theoretic concepts.
Imaging through Flames with Coherent Laser Ranging

We show that coherent laser detection and ranging can see through flames and capture 3D images of a deforming object. A ranging precision of 30 µm through acetylene flame at a 2-meter stand-off is achieved. © 2019 The Author(s)
Report of Spontaneous Internal Carotid Dissection in a Patient with Turner Syndrome with a Systematic Review of the Literature.

Background Spontaneous isolated carotid artery (CA) or vertebral artery (VA) dissection in the absence of coarctation has rarely been reported in the literature. We report the case of a 20-year-old woman with Turner syndrome (TS) who developed an acute left middle cerebral artery territory ischemic stroke from a spontaneous left internal carotid artery (ICA) dissection. We also conducted a systematic review of the literature to identify prior studies establishing an association or other case reports of isolated CA or VA dissection in TS. We queried 5 databases: MEDLINE (PubMed), Scopus, Embase, Cochrane Central, and CINAHL EBSCO. We used a standardized search clause across databases. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied to articles retrieved. Studies were excluded based on title alone, abstract, or after vetting the data presented in the paper. Case Description Three case reports of patients with TS presenting with spontaneous intracranial and/or extracranial dissection of the ICA or VA were identified and included in this review. Conclusions We present a case of bilateral spontaneous dissection of the ICA in a patient with TS. Only 3 reported cases of spontaneous extra- or intracranial dissection of the CA or VA were identified via a systematic review of the literature. Arterial dissection of the CA or VA, especially in absence of aortic coarctation, in individuals affected with TS suggest the possibility of systemic vasculopathy. More research is needed to establish a better understanding of the phenotypic effects of TS in macro- and microvascular structures.
Consensus Clinical Decision-Making Factors Driving Anticoagulation in Atrial Fibrillation

Guideline-recommended anticoagulation is frequently omitted in high-risk patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) for reasons not fully understood, which may result in suboptimal care. A nationally representative, expert group of physicians (cardiology, neurology, and general medicine), and clinical pharmacists participated in a consensus-seeking, modified Delphi method to identify key clinical decision-making factors driving anticoagulant prescribing in real-world AF patients. Representing >2,500 anticoagulation-related patient encounters per month, 27 of 30 participants completed the study (90% overall response rate). In Round-1, experts rated their level of agreement with factors and suggested modifications or additional factors. Of 66 factors entering Round-1, 21 met and 4 partially met consensus, 41 did not meet consensus, and 7 were newly suggested. Of 32 factors advanced for scoring in Round-2, 16 met consensus criteria. In Round-3, experts were given the option to rescue up to 2 of the 16 nonconsensus factors from Round-2. Including a concomitant need for dual antiplatelet therapy, no factor was successfully rescued into consensus. The most important factors related to risk of infarction rather than bleeding risk or other patient-specific considerations. Among factors not independently addressed in current guidelines, these included baseline hematologic indicators of potential bleeding risk, previous bleeding episodes by specific type, other risk factors for bleeding, and adherence. In conclusion, when determining anticoagulation strategies in AF, there is a need for further research on the clinical implications of these emerging factors as well as the reasons behind divergent opinions toward nonconsensus factors.
Diagnostic Modeling of Skill Hierarchies and Cognitive Processes with MLTM-D

This chapter formally describes the multicomponent latent trait model for diagnosis (MLTM-D; Embretson S.E., Yang X, Psychometrika 78:14–36, 2013) and then provides examples of applications to diagnose broad and narrow skills, as well as measure processing complexity and attainment. MLTM-D can be applied to diagnose either skill mastery or cognitive processing capabilities of examinees. MLTM-D is readily applicable to diagnose hierarchically-structured skills or to assess cognitive processes with postulated sources of complexity. That is, MLTM-D is a multidimensional conjunctive model for item responses that are impacted by varying underlying components with specifiable sources of complexity. MLTM-D can be applied to assess both processing competencies of examinees and the impact of the postulated features on process difficulty.
Theorizing the Addressive Audience in Children's Digital Video Production.

In this article, we examine how children ages 8 to 10 characterized the audiences of digital videos they made in school. Children’s perceptions of their viewers reflected, and in many cases complic...
Antithrombotic Management After Intracranial Hemorrhage

Intracranial hemorrhage remains one of the most feared acute neurological emergencies. However, apart from the acute management, secondary risk factor management and prevention of ischemic events remains ambiguous. We present a thorough review of the current data available regarding management of antithrombotics after intracranial hemorrhage. The most robust evidence comes from the investigators of the RESTART trial which reassured the safety of resuming antiplatelet therapy after ICH, namely in patients with prior indication and treatment with antithrombotics. We conclude that based on available data, the risk of recurrent ICH is probably too small to exceed the found benefits of antiplatelet therapy in the secondary prevention of ischemic vascular disease.
Evolving Schemas of Homeless Children: Encouraging Hope and Personal Mastery

Young homeless children face many adverse circumstances, unlike children who are nurtured in supportive families and stable homes. Given experiences of chaos, unpredictability, and upheaval, homeless children are placed in jeopardy with regard to meeting their needs for successful developmental outcomes. In particular, these experiences likely cause fear and anxiety, with consequences that adversely affect psychological development and lead to disempowerment of the self and learned helplessness. Using principles of positive psychology and guiding homeless children toward the creation of schemas of resilience and self-confidence can provide them with the basis for adaptation, happiness, and appropriate decision making.
Intraperitoneal versus retromuscular mesh placement for open incisional hernias: an analysis of the Americas Hernia Society Quality Collaborative.

Background Incisional hernia repair with mesh improves long-term outcomes, but the ideal mesh position remains unclear. This study compared intraperitoneal versus retromuscular or preperitoneal sublay (RPS) mesh positions for open incisional hernia repairs. Methods All patients who had elective open incisional hernia repairs were identified retrospectively in the Americas Hernia Society Quality Collaborative database. The primary outcome was the rate of 30-day surgical-site infection (SSI). Other outcomes of interest included 30-day surgical-site occurrences requiring procedural intervention (SSOPI), hernia-related quality-of-life survey (HerQLes) scores and long-term recurrence. A logistic model was used to generate propensity scores for mesh position using several clinically relevant co-variables. Regression models adjusting for propensity score and baseline characteristics were developed to assess the effect of mesh placement. Results A total of 4211 patients were included in the study population: 587 had intraperitoneal mesh and 3624 had RPS mesh. Analysis with propensity score adjustment provided no evidence for differences in SSOPI (odds ratio (OR) 0·79, 95 per cent c.i. 0·49 to 1·26) and SSI (OR 0·91, 0·50 to 1·67) rates or HerQLes scores at 30 days (OR 1·20, 0·79 to 1·82), or recurrence rates (hazard ratio 1·28, 0·90 to 1·82). Conclusion Mesh position had no effect on short- or long-term outcomes, including SSOPI and SSI rates, HerQLes scores and long-term recurrence rates.
Spectral Methods for Ranking with Scarce Data.

Given a number of pairwise preferences of items, a common task is to rank all the items. Examples include pairwise movie ratings, New Yorker cartoon caption contests, and many other consumer preferences tasks. What these settings have in common is two-fold: a scarcity of data (it may be costly to get comparisons for all the pairs of items) and additional feature information about the items (e.g., movie genre, director, and cast). In this paper we modify a popular and well studied method, RankCentrality for rank aggregation to account for few comparisons and that incorporates additional feature information. This method returns meaningful rankings even under scarce comparisons. Using diffusion based methods, we incorporate feature information that outperforms state-of-the-art methods in practice. We also provide improved sample complexity for RankCentrality in a variety of sampling schemes.
A Longitudinal Cohort Study of Pain Intensity and Interference After Ureteroscopy for Nephrolithiasis Without Postoperative Opioids.

Abstract OBJECTIVE To better understand the degree and time to resolution of pain in the postoperative period, we captured patient-reported pain intensity and interference prospectively in patients following ureteroscopy for nephrolithiasis. MATERIALS AND METHODS Adults undergoing ureteroscopy for renal/ureteral stones from 11/2018 to 1/2020 were eligible for inclusion. All received nonopioid postoperative pain control. Patients prospectively completed Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement Information System-Pain Intensity and Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement Information System-Pain Interference instruments preoperatively on postoperative day (POD) 0 and via email on POD 1, 7, and 14. Scores are reported as T-scores (normalized to US population, mean = 50) with changes of 5 (0.5 standard deviation) considered clinically significant. RESULTS A total of 126 patients completed enrollment at POD 0 (POD 1 = 74, POD 7 = 61, POD 14 = 47). Compared to US means, intensity and interference were significantly different at all time point comparisons (Wilcoxon rank test; all P CONCLUSION Pain intensity and interference are elevated immediately, but intensity normalizes by POD 7, while interference remains elevated until POD 14. Age and indwelling ureteral stent influence both intensity and interference.
Motion of an inertial squirmer in a density stratified fluid

We investigate the self-propulsion of an inertial swimmer in a linearly density stratified fluid using the archetypal squirmer model which self-propels by generating tangential surface waves. We quantify swimming speeds for pushers (propelled from the rear) and pullers (propelled from the front) by direct numerical solution of the Navier–Stokes equations using the finite volume method for solving the fluid flow and the distributed Lagrange multiplier method for modelling the swimmer. The simulations are performed for Reynolds numbers (. On the contrary, a strong stratification leads to instability in the motion of pushers by making the flow around them unsteady and three-dimensional, which is otherwise steady and axisymmetric in a homogeneous fluid. A pusher is a more efficient swimmer than a puller owing to efficient convection of vorticity along its surface and downstream. Data for the mixing efficiency generated by individual squirmers explain the trends observed in the mixing produced by a swarm of squirmers.
The intersection of COVID-19, school, and headaches: Problems and solutions.

Objective To equip clinicians with recommendations specific to concerns related to the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which impact the physical, emotional, and social health of youth with headache disorders. Background COVID-19 has affected societies on a global scale including children and youth with chronic headache disorders. Many concerns are predicted to arise in the 2020-2021 school year, whether classes are conducted in-person or virtually. Methods Clinical impressions were combined with a review of the literature, although limited due to the recent nature of this issue. Results We describe recommendations to support caregivers and youth as they face changes expected with the return to school in the fall of 2020. Conclusion Although there are significant concerns for caregivers and youth with migraine given the context of changes related to the pandemic, there are many recommendations that can help minimize exacerbations of the physical, emotional, and social health of youth with chronic migraine.
Sordid Pasts, Indigenous Futures: Necropolitics and Survivance in Louis Owens' Bone Game

This article develops from current examinations of the link between racial subjectivity and death that increased in prominence after the publication of Achille Mbembe’s 2003 article “Necropolitics.” In a context specific to Native American/Indigenous Studies, Jodi Byrd (Chickasaw) points out how designating an individual or group “Indian” allows for their genocide. Elaborating on Mbembe’s and Byrd’s respective frameworks, my article provides a necropolitical reading of Louis Owens’ 1994 novel Bone Game, arguing that the book prompts readers to discuss and reconcile the historical relationships between death and subjectivity and, more importantly, explore the possibilities of Indigenous futures and sovereignty. This article draws on Indigenous scholarship like Leanne Betasamosake Simpson’s concept of ‘Indigenous freedom,’ Vine Deloria Jr.’s critique of Anthropological study, and Vizenor’s notion of ‘survivance,’ in its analysis of the struggles and survivance strategies of Owens’ characters, all of whom emphasize Native agency and sovereignty over the predominant, mainstream narrative of Native tragedy. The injustices and tragedies are part of the California landscape, written into the state and national histories, what Owens once described in an interview as “dark” but what this article characterizes as dystopic based on the novel’s “defamiliarization” of a well-known setting for political purposes (Booker) and based on how it “depends on and denies history” (Baccolini). While illustrating the link between history and the present day of the book, up to and including how we can construct the future, my reading posits that the actions of Cole and his family help readers imagine possibilities for Indigenous futures. The first part of my article’s title draws on one of Cole’s quips about the history of California. Cole’s reference to the state’s “sordid past” critiques the common conception of California as a terra nullius paradise. California long exists in the public imagination as a source of hope (for gold, for a new beginning); it is thus appropriate that Owens sets his novel here to explore his own sense of hope for an Indigenous future, one that accounts for settler colonialism while also beginning to move past it, one that does not skirt the hard work of reconciliation and sovereignty.
On the security of ANN-based AC state estimation in smart grid

Abstract With the deployment of new elements in the smart grid, traditional state estimation methods are challenged by growing dynamics and system size. Artificial neural network (ANN) based AC state estimation has been shown to provide faster results than traditional methods. However, researchers have discovered that ANNs could be easily fooled by adversarial examples. In this paper, we initiate a new study of adversarial false data injection attacks against ANN-based state estimation. By injecting a deliberate attack vector into measurements, the attacker can degrade the accuracy of ANN state estimation while remaining undetected. We propose two algorithms to generate the attack vectors, a population-based algorithm (differential evolution or DE) and a gradient-based algorithm (sequential least square quadratic programming or SLSQP). The performance of these algorithms is evaluated through simulations on IEEE 9-bus, 14-bus, and 30-bus systems under various attack scenarios. Simulation results show that DE is more effective than SLSQP on all simulation cases. The attack examples generated by the DE algorithm successfully degrade the ANN state estimation accuracy with high probability (more than 80 % in all simulation cases), despite having a small number of compromised meters and low injection strength. We further discuss the potential defense strategy to mitigate such attacks, which provides insights for robustness improvement in future research.
Unsupervised shape prior modeling for cell segmentation in neuroendocrine tumor

Automated and accurate cell segmentation provides support for many quantitative analyses on digitized neuroendocrine tumor (NET) images. It is a challenging task due to complex variations of cell characteristics. In this paper, we incorporate unsupervised shape priors into an efficient repulsive deformable model for automated cell segmentation on NET images. Unlike other supervised learning based shape models, which usually require a large number of annotated data for training, the proposed algorithm is an unsupervised approach that applies group similarity to shape constraints to avoid any labor intensive annotation. The algorithm is extensively tested on 51 NET images, and the comparative experiments with the state of the arts demonstrate the superior performance of this method using an unsupervised shape model.
Space and Time Ontology: New Models for New Physics

Nickel proposes a model for movement – and in general, for change – in which each instant in time (characterized as the set of real numbers) is assigned to one point in a configuration space. As much as this model seems to intuitively fit to our experience, it implies a number of assumptions about the nature of space and time that are interesting to explore. Different perspectives have been developed across History, and it could well be that the next scientific revolution is set in motion by an innovative conception of space and time. One of this alternative perspectives was proposed by Julian Barbour, who has developed a new model of Physics where time does not exist [Barbour, 1999]. This paper reviews not only this concept but also other similarly provocative ideas that might prove useful for improving our understanding of the universe. Prior to this, the relevance of the philosophy of space and time will be briefly outlined and its history reviewed to provide some background for the discussed models. Finally, an approach where space and time are only defined by convention will be considered.
A comparison of three MPI implementations for red storm

Cray Red Storm is a new distributed memory massively parallel computing platform designed to scale to tens of thousands of nodes. Red Storm has a custom network designed around the Cray SeaStar network interface and router. In this paper, we present an evaluation of three different MPI implementations for Red Storm: the vendor-supported MPICH2 implementation, and two other implementations based on MPICH 1.2.6. We discuss the differences in these implementations and show how various implementation strategies impact performance and scalability.
LITERACY -- A HUMAN FACTOR IN DRIVING PERFORMANCE

Literate and illiterate drivers were compared on the basis of their driving histories and characteristics of their crashes. Illiterate drivers had significantly more crashes and convictions than the general driving public. When compared to matched control drivers, illiterate drivers still had more convictions and crashes. Their crashes tended to be in older vehicles that were more likely to have reported defects. They were also more likely to be driving trucks. Recommendations are presented for a comprehensive coordinated approach to encouraging acquisition of literacy skills which in turn may be reflected in improved driving performance.
Periorbital Cellulitis in Children

Inflammation of periorbital tissues is common in pediatric patients, but little information regarding guidelines for treatment is available. The patient with periorbital cellulitis has erythema and swelling of the soft tissues of the eye. The condition is distinguished from more severe orbital involvement by the absence of ophthalmoplegia, proptosis, or impaired vision (Table I).1 This review was initiated to develop bacteriologic data for the treatment of periorbital cellulitis. PATIENT POPULATION Patients hospitalized at the Children9s Hospital of Denver between December 1972 and June 1976 with the diagnosis of orbital or periorbital cellulitis were reviewed. Patients with periorbital cellulitis (lid swelling and erythema without ophthalmoplegia, proptosis, or impaired vision) were analyzed; clinical, bacteriologic, and roentgenographic data were obtained. A positive blood or cellulitis aspirate culture was required to prove a bacteriologic cause. Roentgenograms were interpreted by two pediatric radiologists. FINDINGS Seventy-one cases of periorbital cellulitis without orbital involvement were identified during the study period. Children ranged in age from 10 days to 18 years; 41 (58%) were 4 years of age or younger. The right periorbital tissues were involved in 39 patients (55%) and the left in 28 (39%); bilateral involvement was noted in four. A temperature greater than 37.8 C (100 F) was documented on the day of admission in 52 (73%) children; 34 (48%) had temperatures greater than 38.3 C (101 F). Although not a presenting complaint, 19 (27%) exhibited mild conjunctival hyperemia without purulent discharge. Clinical sinusitis manifested by a history of drainage, pain, or local tenderness was noted in ten (14%) patients.
Statistical dependence estimation for object interaction and matching

This dissertation shows how statistical dependence estimation underlies two key problems in visual surveillance and wide-area tracking. The first problem is to detect and describe interactions between moving objects. The goal is to measure the influence objects exert on one another. The second problem is to match objects between non-overlapping cameras. There, the goal is to pair the departures in one camera with the arrivals in a different camera so that the resulting distribution of relationships best models the data. Both problems have become important for scaling up surveillance systems to larger areas and expanding the monitoring to more interesting behaviors. We show how statistical dependence estimation generalizes previous work and may have applications in other areas. The two problems represent different applications of our thesis that statistical dependence estimation underlies the learning of the structure of probabilistic models. First, we analyze the relationship between Bayesian, information-theoretic, and classical statistical methods for statistical dependence estimation. Then, we apply these ideas to formulate object interaction in terms of dependency structure model selection. We describe experiments on simulated and real interaction data to validate our approach. Second, we formulate the matching problem in terms of maximizing statistical dependence. This allows us to generalize previous work on matching, and we show improved results on simulated and real data for non-overlapping cameras. We also prove an intractability result on exact maximally dependent matching.
Spatial temporal active contour interpolation for semi-automatic video object generation

An active-contour interpolation approach is proposed for semi-automatic video object generation. In this approach, user can define the contour of the same video object on multiple frames and the computer interpolates the missing contours automatically. A typical active contour model is adapted and the contour interpolation problem is decomposed into two directional contour tracking problems and a merging problem. In addition, a new concept of parametric neighborhood template is introduced in order to improve the robustness of contour tracking.
Quantitative and Qualitative Analysis of Reported Dreams and the Problem of Double Hermeneutics in Clinical Research

The aim of this article is to show that statistical analysis and hermeneutics are not mutually exclusive. Although statistical analysis may capture some patterns and regularities, statistical methods may themselves generate different types of interpretation and, in turn, give rise to even more interpretations. The discussion is lodged within the context of a quantitative analysis of dream content. I attempted to examine the dialogical texts of reported dreams monologically, but soon found myself returning to dialogic contexts to make sense of statistical patterns. One could cogently argue that the reported statistical relationships in this study, rather than pointing to any interaction among the "signifieds," speak only to the relationships among the "signifiers" that were being played out through various actors on the analytic or scientific stage, since all of the constructs used in theorizing about, interpreting, and telling dreams come from the same discursive system.
Functional and Performance Modeling of Concurrency in VCC

VCC®(Virtual Component Co-Design) is a system level software tool that supports the design of concurrent systems by specifying the functional model as a set of interconnected functional blocks, the system architecture, and the mapping between functional blocks and architectural elements. VCC provides functional simulation, performance estimation, and refinement of the model to implementation. This chapter provides a brief tutorial on the VCC tool. It describes the model of concurrency in VCC's default discrete event model of computation. While modeling a system, the importance of separating the behavioral model from the implementation architecture is emphasized. The techniques used to model performance and implementation of the architecture components, as a set of collaborating services, are explained in some detail. Customization of the model of computation, and communication between functional blocks is also discussed. An example is provided that demonstrates the dataflow model of computation implemented on top of the VCC infrastructure. Finally the automatic generation of an implementation from VCC (in terms of HDL and/or C, and the communication code) is described.
Análisis de severidad y criterios de hospitalización en pacientes con neumonía adquirida en la comunidad

a neumonia adquirida en la comunidad es una enfermedad que causa alta morbilidad, mortalidad y costos. Este articulo tiene como finalidad discutir los diferentes metodos de evaluacion de severidad de la enfermedad, para determinar el mejor sitio para el tratamiento de los pacientes. Utilizamos un caso clinico ficticio a manera de ejercicio para aplicar las diferentes herramientas: PSI, CURB y CURB-65. Sugerimos el uso tanto del CURB como del CURB-65, por su facil aplicacion y buena efectividad en la practica clinica. La presencia de dos o mas de los criterios clinicos: (Confusion, BUN > 19,6 mg/dL [7 mmol/L], frecuencia respiratoria ≥ 30/min, e hipotension arterial [presion arterial sistolica o diastolica 19.6 mg/dL (7 mmol/L), Respiratory rate > 30/min and Blood pressure < 90/60 mmHg) suggests that the patient should be managed in the hospital setting. These objective methods do are not intended to replace, but rather to reinforce the clinical the decision making capacity in regard of the place to treat a patient with community acquired pneumonia.