cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Political Boundaries in Research

In many ways, the current political climate is antithetical to sound research. As an example, Roye shares her experiences attempting to obtain funding to study ways to promote risk-reduction behaviors among sexually active teens when the political agenda focuses on abstinence only. She details a program of funded research that she embarked on prior to the current administration. She describes how she found her work blocked, as she attempted to continue with research designed to identify factors associated with heterosexual anal intercourse among female teens. Her purpose was to design prevention strategies for reducing the incidence of HIV/AIDS among young women of color. She further describes her feelings when finding herself on the hit list of scientists whose work was deemed objectionable for ideological reasons and she shares current activities that various organizations are engaged in to protest the political obstruction of scientific investigation.
MOSAIC: Mask Optimizing Solution With Process Window Aware Inverse Correction

Optical Proximity Correction (OPC) has been widely adopted for resolution enhancement to achieve nanolithography. However, conventional rule-based and model-based OPCs encounter severe difficulties at advanced technology nodes. Inverse Lithography Technique (ILT) that solves the inverse problem of the imaging system becomes a promising solution for OPC. In this paper, we consider simultaneously 1) the design target optimization under nominal process condition and 2) process window minimization with different process corners, and solve the mask optimization problem based on ILT. The proposed method is tested on 32nm designs released by IBM for the ICCAD 2013 contest. Our optimization is implemented in two modes, MOSAIC_fast and MOSAIC_exact, which outperform the first place winner of the ICCAD 2013 contest by 7% and 11%, respectively.
Dimensions of Social Hierarchy in Late Bronze Age Cyprus: An Analysis of the Mortuary Data from Enkomi

This paper examines the evidence for developments in social complexity accompanying the urbanization process at the Late Bronze Age site of Enkomi in Cyprus. The extent of variability in tomb architecture and assemblages of grave goods suggests that considerable differentiation in wealth and status had developed among the various groups residing at Enkomi at an early date. It is possible to document the presence of elite groups employing distinctive complements of prestige goods and politico-religious symbolism by the late Cypriote IIA period if not sooner. Changes in mortuary practice and elite symbolism towards the end of the Late Cypriote period may reflect a redefinition of the basis of status and political legitimacy as an increasingly complex framework of political and religious institutions emerged.
Near-threshold voltage (NTV) design: opportunities and challenges

Moore's Law will continue providing abundance of transistors for integration, only to be limited by the energy consumption. Near threshold voltage (NTV) operation has potential to improve energy efficiency by an order of magnitude. We discuss design techniques necessary for reliable operation over a wide range of supply voltage — from nominal down to subthreshold region. The system designed for NTV can dynamically select modes of operation, from high performance, to high energy efficiency, to the lowest power.
Using cybernetics with Soft Systems Methodology in complex system development

Our research investigates application of cybernetic concepts to problem definition which is often considered a project's most important and difficult phase. The addition of cybernetic principles can make existing problem definition methods even more powerful. This is explained and demonstrated by enhancing Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) with several cybernetic concepts, and applying the resulting methods to a case study.
Towards a model-driven architecture for autonomic systems

Agent based systems and architectures provide a firm foundation for design and development of an autonomic system. The key challenge is the selection and efficient use of effective agent architecture. A model-driven approach accommodates the underlying architecture to automate, as much as possible, the development process. The Cognitive Agent Architecture (COUGAAR) is a distributed agent architecture that provides the primary components and an implementation platform for this research. COUGAAR has been developed primarily for very large-scale, distributed applications that are characterized by hierarchical task decompositions and as such is well suited for autonomic systems. We propose a framework for the agent-based, model-driven architecture for autonomic applications development. The framework consists of two main parts, General COUGAAR application model (GCAM) and general domain application model (GDAM). Some COUGAAR related performance issues are also discussed.
Subpersonalities: Who Conducts the Orchestra?

The theory of subpersonalities is a rapidly emerging theory of personality. In this article, the author offers a critique of the theory and urges that it be viewed and developed within the context ...
Abstract TP348: Crytogenic Stroke and Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation: Criteria for Long Term Cardiac Monitoring

Background: Cryptogenic stroke represents 30% of all ischemic strokes. Undetected atrial fibrillation may be a cause of cryptogenic stroke and may lead to ineffective secondary stroke prevention. Long term cardiac monitoring assists in identifying atrial fibrillation. The purpose of this performance improvement project was to develop a protocol for long term cardiac monitoring for patients with cryptogenic stroke. Methods: Stroke faculty, cardiology and stroke nurses developed a protocol for long term cardiac monitoring. A 14 day “event monitor” is placed electronically on day of discharge. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were identified. Inclusion: diagnosis stroke/TIA; EKG has not shown atrial fibrillation/flutter; vascular imaging of the extracranial and intracranial circulation excludes significant large vessel occlusive disease; evidence of abdominal or pelvic embolic on CT scan; echocardiography excludes thrombus or structural heart disease. Exclusion: documented atrial fibrillation/flutter; etiological diagnosis for the qualifying stroke/TIA event has been determined, i.e. probable small-vessel disease, probable large vessel disease, arterial dissection, venous sinus thrombosis, hypercoagulable states; echocardiography reveals indication for long-term anticoagulation; absolute indication for oral anticoagulation therapy; contraindications to oral anticoagulation therapy. Results: This protocol was effective in providing patients with long term cardiac monitoring. Patients are scheduled in the stroke discharge clinic for diagnostic review. Conclusions: This protocol assists in identifying patients who have paroxysmal atrial fibrillation and need anticoagulation for secondary prevention. The following process improvements are needed: 1) process for follow up, 2) improve communication with PMD, 3) improve transition of care when patients are transferred to rehabilitation, 4) costs can be prohibitive and, 5) 14 days may not be effective in detecting atrial fibrillation.
ACQUIRED VENTRICULAR SEPTAL DEFECT SECONDARY TO INFEROPOSTERIOR MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION

Acquired ventricular septal defects (VSD) are rare and fatal complications after myocardial infarction (MI). Long-term prognosis with medical therapy is extremely poor. A 76-year-old woman presented with increasing shortness of breath, lower extremity edema, and palpitations of three weeks duration
Lateral Seeding of Silicon-On-Insulator Using an Elliptical Laser Beam: A Comparison of Scanning Methods

Two scanning methods for laterally-seeded recrystallization of striped silicon-on-insulator/seed structures with an elliptical laser beam are discussed. One method requires repeated remelting of the silicon film and is controlled by the temperature of the substrate, which is locally heated by the beam. This method results in very few defects and single-crystal silicon-on-insulator stripes up to 50 µm wide. The second method involves little remelting and is primarily controlled by the lateral offset of the beam with respect to the stripes. Single-crystal silicon-on-insulator stripes up to 40 µm wide have been obtained, with defects consisting primarily of stacking faults and twins, as well as some grain boundaries. These defects show little effect on MOS transistor leakage current.
Prediction and Use of Contrail Frequency Index for Contrail Reduction Strategies

Methods have been proposed to reduce aircraft-induced contrails by on-board sensing and strategic planning. This paper describes a class of indices that predict potential aircraft-induced contrail formations one to six hours in advance. The indices can be used to identify air traffic control centers and altitudes with high potential for contrail formation. The results show that the index is affected more by the changing atmospheric conditions than by small daily variations in the nominal traffic. The analysis shows that the one-hour predicted contrail frequency index is highly correlated with the actual contrail frequency, with an average correlation coefficient of 0.85. The correlation coefficient is lower with longer prediction time, down to 0.52 for six-hour prediction. The average success rates for identifying air traffic control centers and altitudes with high contrail frequency are as high as 83.47% for one-hour prediction.
Adjoint-Based Error Estimation and Mesh Adaptation for Problems with Output Constraints

In this paper we extend adjoint-based output error estimation and mesh adaptation to computational fluid dynamics simulations that involve trim constraints – i.e. constraints on certain outputs. These constraints may involve outputs other than those directly targeted for error estimation and adaptation. A representative example used in this work is the reduction of numerical error in drag under fixed-lift conditions. The lift output comes in only through the constraint, but numerical errors in the lift will indirectly affect the drag calculation. We present a method for including this effect in the output error calculation, and for adapting the discretization to better predict both the target output and the trim constraint. The method relies on a discrete adjoint solution, which is also used to efficiently trim the simulations. We demonstrate the method on a discontinuous finite element discretization of the two-dimensional compressible Navier-Stokes equations.
POSTTRAUMATIC STRESS SYMPTOMS AND AVERSION TO AMBIGUOUS LOSSES IN COMBAT VETERANS.

BACKGROUND: Psychiatric symptoms typically cut across traditional diagnostic categories. In order to devise individually tailored treatments, there is a need to identify the basic mechanisms that underlie these symptoms. Behavioral economics provides a framework for studying these mechanisms at the behavioral level. Here, we utilized this framework to examine a widely ignored aspect of trauma-related symptomatology-individual uncertainty attitudes-in combat veterans with and without posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). METHODS: Fifty-seven combat veterans, including 30 with PTSD and 27 without PTSD, completed a risk and ambiguity decision-making task that characterizes individual uncertainty attitudes, distinguishing between attitudes toward uncertain outcomes with known ("risk") and unknown ("ambiguity") probabilities, and between attitudes toward uncertain gains and uncertain losses. Participants' choices were used to estimate risk and ambiguity attitudes in the gain and loss domains. RESULTS: Veterans with PTSD were more averse to ambiguity, but not risk, compared to veterans without PTSD, when making choices between possible losses, but not gains. The degree of aversion was associated with anxious arousal (e.g., hypervigilance) symptoms, as well as with the degree of combat exposure. Moreover, ambiguity attitudes fully mediated the association between combat exposure and anxious arousal symptoms. CONCLUSIONS: These results provide a foundation for prospective studies of the causal association between ambiguity attitudes and trauma-related symptoms, as well as etiologic studies of the neural underpinnings of these behavioral outcomes. More generally, these results demonstrate the potential of neuroeconomic and behavioral economic techniques for devising objective and incentive-compatible diagnostic tools, and investigating the etiology of psychiatric disorders.© 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Language: en
Treatment of burns.

In caring for the burned patient, immediate attention should be given to clearing the airway, starting intravenous fluids, and inserting a Foley catheter to monitor the urine output. Other injuries must be evaluated and treated as soon as possible. Failure to decompress a circumferential burn immediately or within 24 hours can result in the loss of a limb.
Design and Simulation of Virtual Prototype for Eggplant Picking Robot

In order to get the optimum design of a picking robot,the virtual prototype of picking robot is set up. With DenavitHartenberg method,a theoretical model was derived,and the relationship between all moving parts of the robot and end executor in space positions was ascertained to obtain forward solution for kinematics equations. By using A- 1ito multiply left with matrix0T4 for decoupling,the inverse kinematics solution was obtained with Matlab software. Three-dimensional( 3-D) model of picking robot was set up by Pro / e,and imported to ADAMS simulation software with kinematics simulation analysis. The simulation results show that the Kinematics model set up by D-H method reflects real movement situation of the robot and the correctness of forward and inverse kinematics solution. The developed 4-D virtual prototype picking robot is rational in structural design,which can satisfy eggplant picking requirement under mode of room temperature planting.
Study on Ecosystem Service Values Based on Land Use Change——Taking Ning′an City As an Example

Ning′an City,which is located in Heilongjiang province was selected as the study area.With TM remote sensing images of 1991and 2010as the main source of information,the changes of ecosystem service value(ESV)in Ning′an city were analyzed.The parameters were revised by using the methods and models of ecological value estimation in view of the actual condition of the study area.The result indicates that use changes from 1991to 2010were notable,with the rapid increase of crop land,constructed land and the decrease of forestland,grassland,water area and other land uses;the ESV of Ning′an city descended from14.914billion Yuan to 14.404billion Yuan during the study period,and the descending rate was 3.42%;large amount of forestland and grassland transformed to cropland with lower ecological value coefficient was the main cause ruslting in its decreasing;the sensitivity analysis showed that the ecological value of study area was of instructional meaning to quicken ecological construction,perfect new rural construction plan and push sustainable development of agriculture in Heilongjiang reclamation area.
California veterans receive inadequate treatment to address their mental health needs

Data from the 2011 to 2013 California Health Interview Survey (CHIS) were pooled to estimate prevalence of mental health need (serious psychological distress and impairment in one or more life domains), minimally adequate treatment (having four or more visits with a health professional in the past 12 months and use of prescription medication for mental health problems in the past 12 months), and suicide ideation among veterans living in California. Numbers and percentages were weighted to the CA population using a large sample size (N=6,952), and for comparison purposes, veterans and nonveterans were standardized to the age and gender distribution of veterans in the sample. Although differences in mental health need were similar between veterans and nonveterans after adjustment, over three-quarters of veterans did not receive minimally adequate treatment needed to address their mental health needs. Suicide ideation was significantly higher among veterans than nonveterans. Male veterans at all ages were more vulnerable to thinking about suicide compared to their nonveteran counterparts. Language: en
Fine-tuning treatment for patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction

As the most severe type of heart attack, ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is a life-threatening medical emergency and calls for a rapid response. In the United States, it is estimated that 30% of patients with myocardial infarction have STEMI and that 50% of STEMI patients have multivessel disease (1,2). Literature suggests that compared with STEMI patients with single vessel disease, STEMI patients with multivessel disease have worse clinical outcomes (3). The optimal strategy for the treatment of patients with STEMI and multivessel disease is of increasing interest and practice guidelines continue to evolve with new data (4). Also, the safety and effectiveness of adjunctive aspiration thrombectomy in percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) are in doubt although it was initially perceived to be an effective therapy to reduce distal embolization (5-7).
Robert Lee Replogle, September 30, 1931–May 9, 2016

The world of cardiothoracic surgery lost a friend and remarkable colleague on May 9, 2016. Robert L. Replogle, the 31st President of The Society of Thoracic Surgeons, died at the University of Chicago Medical Center after a brief illness, surrounded by his loving family. Known to his friends as "Rep," he will be remembered as an excellent pediatric and adult cardiac surgeon and as a visionary leader.
Bayesian decision making using z-numbers

Bayesian decision methods have been widely used in different areas for estimating, predicting, and offering decision supports. On the other hand, computing with words (CW) and approximate reasoning have effectively been used to deal with imprecise measurements and inexact information. This work is an attempt to benefit from both approaches and to combine them to model the expert knowledge in natural language and apply it to Bayesian decision support systems. The proposed method employs z-numbers to represent the knowledge in natural language and its certainty (reliability). To evaluate applicability of the proposed method, an example is provided as a proof of concept.
Improved Multiple Matching Method for Observing Glacier Motion With Repeat Image Feature Tracking

Repeat image feature tracking is commonly used to measure glacier surface motion from pairs of images, most often utilizing normalized cross correlation (NCC). The multiple-image multiple-chip (MIMC) algorithm successfully employed redundant matching (i.e., repeating the matching process over each area using varying combinations of settings) to increase the matching success rate. Due to the large number of repeat calculations, however, the original MIMC algorithm was slow and still prone to failure in areas of high shearing flow. Here, we present several major updates to the MIMC algorithm that increase both the speed and the matching success rate. First, we include additional redundant measurements by swapping the image order and matching direction; a process we term quadramatching. Second, we utilize a priori ice velocity information to confine the NCC search space through a system we term dynamic linear constraint, which substantially reduces the computation time and increases the rate of successful matches. Additionally, we develop a novel postprocessing algorithm, pseudosmoothing, to determine the most probable displacement. Our tests reveal the complementary and multiplicative nature of these upgrades in their improvement in the overall MIMC performance.
Evaluation of the 2015 AGA guidelines on pancreatic cystic neoplasms in a large surgically confirmed multicenter cohort.

Background and study aims The American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) recently published guidelines for the management of asymptomatic pancreatic cystic neoplasms (PCNs). We aimed to evaluate the diagnostic characteristics of the AGA guidelines in appropriately recommending surgery for malignant PCNs. Patients and methods A retrospective multicenter study was performed of patients who underwent endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) for evaluation of PCNs who ultimately underwent surgical resection from 2004 – 2014. Demographics, EUS characteristics, fine-needle aspiration (FNA) results, type of resection, and final pathologic diagnosis were recorded. Patients were categorized into 2 groups (surgery or surveillance) based on what the AGA guidelines would have recommended. Performance characteristics for the diagnosis of cancer or high-grade dysplasia (HGD) on surgical pathology were calculated. Results Three hundred patients underwent surgical resection for PCNs, of whom the AGA guidelines would have recommended surgery in 121 (40.3 %) and surveillance in 179 (59.7 %) patients. Among patients recommended for surgery, 45 (37.2 %) had cancer, whereas 76 (62.8 %) had no cancer/HGD. Among patients recommended for surveillance, 170 (95.0 %) had no cancer/HGD; however, 9 (5.0 %) patients had cancer that would have been missed. For the finding of cancer/HGD on surgical pathology, the AGA guidelines had 83.3 % sensitivity (95 % CI 70.7 – 92.1), 69.1 % specificity (95 % CI 62.9 – 74.8), 37.2 % positive predictive value (95 % CI 28.6 – 46.4), 95.0 % negative predictive value (95 % CI 90.7 – 97.7), and 71.7 % accuracy (95 % CI 67.4 – 74.6). Conclusions The 2015 AGA guidelines would have resulted in 60 % fewer patients being referred for surgical resection, and accurately recommended surveillance in 95 % of patients with asymptomatic PCNs. Future prospective studies are required to validate these guidelines. Meeting presentations: Presented in part at Digestive Diseases Week 2016
Automatic analysis of LENA recordings for language assessment in children aged five to fourteen years with application to individuals with autism

Detecting child and adult vocalizations, and computing their characteristics from audio recorded in natural home environments can be useful in many applications. The current study is interested in monitoring children with autism spectrum disorder to ultimately provide outcome measures that can track the efficacy of clinical treatments. In this paper, we show that it is possible to automate detection of child and adult vocalizations from audio recorded in controlled clinic environments as well as in naturalistic home settings. The results show both high precision and recall for children aged five to fourteen years who have been diagnosed with autism. Further, we describe a highly accurate speaker-independent laughter detector for this age group which will be useful for affect estimation.
Synthesis of dihydroisorcordoin derivatives and their in vitro anti-oomycete activities.

AbstractA series of novel dihydrochalcone derivatives 2–7 were synthesized from dihydroisorcordoin 1 which was isolated from the aerial parts of Adesmia balsamica. The structures of all compounds w...
Maternal Cortisol Concentrations During Pregnancy and Sex-Specific Associations With Neonatal Amygdala Connectivity and Emerging Internalizing Behaviors.

Abstract Background Maternal cortisol during pregnancy has the potential to influence rapidly developing fetal brain systems that are commonly altered in neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders. Research examining maternal cortisol concentrations across pregnancy and offspring neurodevelopment proximal to birth is needed to advance understanding in this area and lead to insight into the etiology of these disorders. Methods Participants were 70 adult women recruited during early pregnancy and their infants born after 34 weeks gestation. Maternal cortisol concentrations were assessed serially over 4 days in early, mid, and late gestation. Resting state functional connectivity magnetic resonance imaging of the neonatal amygdala was examined. Mothers reported on children’s internalizing behavior problems at 24 months of age. Results Maternal cortisol concentrations during pregnancy were significantly associated with neonatal amygdala connectivity in a sex-specific manner. Elevated maternal cortisol was associated with stronger amygdala connectivity to brain regions involved in sensory processing and integration, as well as the default mode network in girls, and with weaker connectivity to these brain regions in boys. Elevated maternal cortisol was associated with higher internalizing symptoms in girls only, and this association was mediated by stronger neonatal amygdala connectivity. Conclusions Normative variation in maternal cortisol during pregnancy is associated with the coordinated functioning of the amygdala soon after birth in a sex-specific manner. The identified pathway from maternal cortisol to higher internalizing symptoms in girls via alterations in neonatal amygdala connectivity may be relevant for the etiology of sex differences in internalizing psychiatric disorders, which are more prevalent in women.
Current assessment of the stepped-care treatment of mild hypertension: diuretics, beta-blockers, vasodilators versus Clonidine

The fairly conclusive demonstration by the Veterans Administration Cooperative Study Group on Antihypertensive Agents (1967) of the strikingly favourable effect of drug treatment on morbidity associated with untreated moderate-to-severe hypertension generated global interest. It suggested that physicians should be made more aware of effective regimens for antihypertensive therapy. A subsequent analysis of the results of the VA trial (Walker et al. 1982) indicated that the benefits of drug treatment, in terms of reducing mortality and morbidity, were, in gross terms, proportional to the therapeutic reduction of blood pressure.
Administrative and Financial Strategies of a Cardiac Rehabilitation Program

The management and financial framework of a preventive cardiology and cardiac rehabilitation program are presented. Discussion focuses on cost and benefits, staffing, financial planning, and marketing of services. The need for national health care policies in health promotion and disease prevention is explored.
Investing in a permanent and sustainable nuclear waste disposal solution

Abstract The Nuclear Waste Policy Act was enacted in 1982, tasking the federal government with providing a permanent, sustainable disposal solution for highly radioactive waste from the existing fleet of light-water reactors (LWR). However, after 30 years and shifts in direction, the U.S. remains uncommitted to a plan for tackling the accumulating waste. Investment in research and development at national laboratories and universities largely focuses on advanced and small modular reactor designs and enabling technologies. While these designs would improve nuclear fuel efficiency and reduce waste, the existing problem of LWR waste looms. This problem will become further exacerbated as LWRs near the end of their licensed lives and begin to shut down, requiring disposal of spent fuel and structural materials. Here we show a critical need for strategic direction, planning, and investment into developing a sustainable, permanent solution for disposal of radioactive waste produced by the existing nuclear reactor fleet.
Patient Selection and Preoperative Evaluation for Radical Pelvic Surgery

Pelvic exenteration may be used for treating carcinomas of the cervix, vagina, vulva, and endometrium, some rare gynecologic cancers, and primary and recurrent rectosigmoid carcinomas. Patient selection is based on assessment of the patient’s attitude and mental condition, multisystem status, weight, age, and previous treatment history. In addition, a digital examination, an examination under anesthesia, imaging studies, and an exploratory laparotomy are performed to rule out the presence of metastases.
Foregut function before and after lung transplant.

Abstract Background Esophageal dysmotility and gastroesophageal reflux disease are common in patients with advanced lung disease and can potentially affect outcomes of lung transplant; however, the effects of lung transplant on foregut function remain unknown. We assessed foregut function before and after bilateral lung transplant. Methods We attempted complete foregut function testing before and after lung transplant. We compared patients with obstructive lung disease and patients with restrictive lung disease who underwent lung transplant between 2015 and 2016. Results In total, 112 patients met inclusion criteria. The mean age of patients was 62.2 years, and 62 patients were men. A total of 51 patients (45.5%) were diagnosed with obstructive lung disease, and 56 patients (50.0%) were diagnosed with restrictive lung disease. Approximately half of these patients had a change in manometric diagnosis before and after lung transplant, with most achieving increased peristaltic vigor. Pre–lung transplant gastroesophageal reflux disease was more prevalent in the restrictive lung disease cohort than in the obstructive lung disease cohort (42.9% vs 19.6%, P = .010). Thoracoabdominal pressure gradient before lung transplantation was greater in the restrictive lung disease group than in the obstructive lung disease group (23.4 vs 14.7 mm Hg, P Conclusions Esophageal motility and reflux parameters vary significantly between patients with obstructive lung disease and patients with restrictive lung disease, and can be explained by differences in underlying pulmonary dynamics. Restoring pulmonary physiology after lung transplant ameliorates the effects of esophageal dysmotility and reflux. Improved peristaltic vigor after lung transplant in patients with hypomotility is important, which may make them eligible for antireflux surgery if gastroesophageal reflux disease persists after lung transplant.
Disorders of the Liver Excluding Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E

Liver disease is one of the most common non-AIDS-related causes of death in HIV-infected patients, but the incidence may be declining with advances in antiretroviral therapy (Jennifer and Thio, Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 8:1002–1012, 2010; Pettit et al. J Int AIDS Soc 21, 2018; Sherman et al. Hepatology 62:1871–1882, 2015). Recognizing and treating opportunistic infections of the liver is essential in the care of HIV-infected patients. This chapter will review the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and clinical presentation along with diagnostic testing and treatment of the most common hepatic presentations of HIV opportunistic fungal, bacterial, viral, and mycobacterial diseases. This chapter will emphasize the less common and often non-hepatotropic viral infections. The more common viral hepatitides, hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E, will be discussed in greater detail in another chapter. In addition to infectious processes that can cause hepatic injury, treatment of HIV with HAART and other medications used for the treatment and prevention of opportunistic infections can lead to drug-induced liver injury (DILI). Since liver injury has a broad differential and can mimic vascular and neoplastic diseases, it takes an astute physician to recognize opportunistic infections and DILI that occur in HIV-infected persons. Clinicians must be aware of these potentially serious hepatic effects when managing HIV-positive patients.
Paroxysmal Atrio-ventricular Heart Block During Spinal Anesthesia

A case is reported of a healthy patient who developed a paroxysmal atrio-ventricular heart block followed by unconsciousness and respiratory arrest 35 minutes after the induction of spinal anesthesia. A second heart block occurred with milder symptoms at the end of surgery, 80 minutes after induction. This complication, which promptly responded to intravenous atropine, is tentatively attributed to a vagal reflex elicited by a sudden decrease in venous return to the heart. In fact, the heart block developed concomitant to a moderate but brisk hemorrhage and to a postural change. The clinical implications of this case are briefly discussed.
Practice and Theory in the Italian Renaissance Workshop: Verrocchio and the Epistemology of Making Art

Verrocchio was arguably the most important sculptor between Donatello and Michelangelo but he has seldom been treated as such in art historical literature because his achievements were quickly superseded by the artists who followed him. He was the master of Leonardo da Vinci, but he is remembered as the sulky teacher that his star pupil did not need. In this book, Christina Neilson argues that Verrocchio was one of the most experimental artists in fifteenth-century Florence, itself one of the most innovative centers of artistic production in Europe. Considering the different media in which the artist worked in dialogue with one another (sculpture, painting, and drawing), she offers an analysis of Verrocchio's unusual methods of manufacture. Neilson shows that, for Verrocchio, making was a form of knowledge and that techniques of making can be read as systems of knowledge. By studying Verrocchio's technical processes, she demonstrates how an artist's theoretical commitments can be uncovered, even in the absence of a written treatise.
Contributions of adult neurogenesis to dentate gyrus network activity and computations

Abstract Anatomical observations, theoretical work and lesion experiments have led to the idea that an important function of the dentate gyrus of the mammalian hippocampus is pattern separation, a neural computation that ensures new memories are encoded without interference from previously stored memories that share similar features. The dentate gyrus also exhibits a unique form of neural plasticity that results from the continuous integration of newly born excitatory granule cells , termed adult hippocampal neurogenesis . However, the manner in which adult neurogenesis contributes to dentate gyrus network activity and computations is incompletely understood. Here, we first describe the prevailing models for the role of adult neurogenesis in dentate gyrus network function and then re-evaluate these models in the light of recent findings regarding the in vivo activity of the dentate gyrus and synaptic interactions of adult born granule cells with local circuit components, as well as, inputs, and outputs of the dentate gyrus. We propose that adult neurogenesis provides flexibility for the dentate gyrus to rapidly generate a context specific, distributed representation of important sensory stimuli such as spatial cues, which ultimately gives rise to behavioral discrimination.
DeepFreeze: Towards Scalable Asynchronous Checkpointing of Deep Learning Models

In the age of big data, deep learning has emerged as a powerful tool to extract insight and exploit its value, both in industry and scientific applications. One common pattern emerging in such applications is frequent checkpointing of the state of the learning model during training, needed in a variety of scenarios: analysis of intermediate states to explain features and correlations with training data, exploration strategies involving alternative models that share a common ancestor, knowledge transfer, resilience, etc. However, with increasing size of the learning models and popularity of distributed data-parallel training approaches, simple checkpointing techniques used so far face several limitations: low serialization performance, blocking I/O, stragglers due to the fact that only a single process is involved in checkpointing. This paper proposes a checkpointing technique specifically designed to address the aforementioned limitations, introducing efficient asynchronous techniques to hide the overhead of serialization and I/O, and distribute the load over all participating processes. Experiments with two deep learning applications (CANDLE and ResNet) on a pre-Exascale HPC platform (Theta) shows significant improvement over state-of-art, both in terms of checkpointing duration and runtime overhead.
Creation of a High-Yield AAV Vector Production Platform in Suspension Cells Using a Design-of-Experiment Approach.

Recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) vectors are a leading gene delivery platform, but vector manufacturing remains a challenge. New methods are needed to increase rAAV yields and reduce costs. Past efforts to improve rAAV production have focused on optimizing a single variable at a time, but this approach does not account for the interactions of multiple factors that contribute to vector generation. Here, we utilized a design-of-experiment (DOE) methodology to optimize rAAV production in a HEK293T suspension cell system. We simultaneously varied the transgene, packaging, and helper plasmid ratios, the total DNA concentration, and the cell density to systematically evaluate the impact of each variable across 52 conditions. The results revealed a unique set of parameters with a lower concentration of transgene plasmid, a higher concentration of packaging plasmid, and a higher cell density than previously described protocols. Using this DOE-optimized protocol, we achieved unpurified yields approaching 3 × 1014 viral genomes (VGs)/L of cell culture. Additionally, we incorporated polyethylene glycol (PEG)-based virus precipitation, pH-mediated protein removal, and affinity chromatography to our downstream processing, enabling average purified yields of >1 × 1014 VGs/L for rAAV-EGFPs across 13 serotypes and capsid variants.
A Sensitivity-based Approach for Optimal Siting of Distributed Energy Resources

This paper presents a sensitivity-based approach for the placement of distributed energy resources (DERs) in power systems. The approach is based on the fact that most planning studies utilize some form of optimization, and solutions to these optimization problems provide insights into the sensitivity of many system variables to operating conditions and constraints. However, most of the existing sensitivity-based planning criteria do not capture ranges of effectiveness of these solutions (i.e., ranges of the effectiveness of Lagrange multipliers). The proposed method detects the ranges of effectiveness of Lagrange multipliers and uses them to determine optimal solution alternatives. Profiles for existing generation and loads, and transmission constraints are taken into consideration. The proposed method is used to determine the impacts of DERs at different locations, in presence of a stochastic element (load variability). This method consists of sequentially calculating Lagrange multipliers of the dual solution of the optimization problem for various load buses for all load scenarios. Optimal sizes and sites of resources are jointly determined in a sequential manner based on the validity of active constraints. The effectiveness of the proposed method is demonstrated through several case studies on various test systems including the IEEE reliability test system (IEEE RTS), the IEEE 14 and 30 bus systems. In comparison with conventional sensitivity-based approaches (i.e., without considering ranges of validity of Lagrange multipliers), the proposed approach provides more accurate results for active constraints.
Enhancing landowner adoption of the Natural Resource Conservation Service’s recommended beef cattle grazing management practices

Water has a significant role in society, whether through human consumption or agricultural use. The Lavaca Watershed is an agricultural community affected by nonpoint source pollution, and water quality protection is of high concern. Beef cattle operations are linked to nonpoint source pollution which contaminates surrounding water sources. If proper grazing management practices are not used, wastes from the operation impair water quality in the area. Landowners should use proper stocking rates and implement best management practices to benefit land and water quality in addition to overall operation profit. Females reported a higher intention to adopt, indicating these respondents are more open to practice changes on their own operation. Results indicated a need for the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) and Texas Soil and Water Conservation Board to conduct further outreach to increase interaction with landowners. NRCS agencies could help increase the use of water conservation plans and inquiries by making this clear to current landowners participating in their program as well as potential clients by sending informational flyers or speaking at local organizational gatherings. The importance of adopting water management practices and barriers to adoption are ongoing global concerns.
Implantable bioelectronics toward long-term stability and sustainability

Summary Marrying electronics with biological systems has generated a broad spectrum of potent technologies for biomedical practices, as well as an emerging field of “bioelectronics.” Conventional rigid silicon microelectronics-based implantable devices suffer from low biocompatibility and high invasiveness. Also, lack of options for sustainably supplying power and wirelessly transmitting data further limits sustainable operations. During the past decade, remarkable research progress has been made in creating new material concepts and device-engineering strategies toward achieving multi-aspect physical and chemical biocompatibility, sustainable power supplies, and wireless data transmission under implantation. In this Review, we provide an outlook of the development of implantable bioelectronics through the review of these major research directions. Representative concepts and important breakthroughs in material and device innovations are discussed. Challenges and future directions are also posed to usher further research efforts toward realizing bioelectronics with minimal invasiveness, in vivo biocompatibility, fully implanted operation, and sustainable power supplies.
Blockchain-enabled government efficiency and impartiality: using blockchain for targeted poverty alleviation in a city in China

Blockchain technology has unique characteristics that make it a powerful application for transforming government processes and improving the management of public benefits. In this paper, we propose...
Come with Me into the Fields: Inspiring Creation Ministry among Faith Communities

Climate change is a dominant reality of our time, a series of physical changes to earth’s systems that will impact human wellbeing, social stability, biodiversity, and the familiar patterns of harvest and storms on God’s green earth. The Fifth Assessment Report clearly states that climate change is already having an impact on our planet and will worsen the lot of the poor in particular. A critical link between this scientific assessment of the state of the planet and Christian faith is thereby found in the gospel invitation to care for the poor. Yet arguably many Christians have not internalized this reality, and the central symbols of Christian faith are not yet consciously intertwined with the reality of climate change in the ways needed to summon strong action. Therefore, the critical question addressed here is how ministers can help lead their communities to understand the links between climate change and faith -- and then inspire them to act. My focus group research among over 135 faith-based environmentalists show that the motivation for environmental advocacy is effectively created through group discussion in the kinds of trusted groups that congregations and faith communities exemplify. Congregations and faith communities are privileged places for engaging potential environmental leaders, and for supporting the work of already active environmentalists. Research Objectives: Empirical research was conducted while a fellow of the Earth Institute, Columbia University, and was approved by the Columbia University Institutional Review Board. The objective was to engage environmental decision theory as well as theological analysis to understand the factors that motivate faith-based environmentalists. Methods: Participants were chosen from mainstream congregational sustainability committees. The Christian groups included Baptists (WA), three groups of Catholics (suburban NJ, urban NY, rural WA), two groups of Episcopalians (suburban and urban NJ), megachurch Christian Evangelicals (FL), Reformed Christians (NJ), two groups of Presbyterians/ PCUSA (MD), Unitarian-Universalists (NJ), and southern pastors (NC). Participant statements provided the primary starting point for analysis. I asked questions about congregational activity, personal motivations, how beliefs developed, and behavior change, and employed semi-structured questions to permit systematic comparison and analysis. Discussions were transcribed and coded both inductively and deductively using NVivo 8 content analysis software (QSR Software, Melbourne) to compare and rank the responses. This essay represents analysis of a small portion of the data collected and the conclusions drawn from it.
Computational Complexity Theory

Week One: Complexity theory: From Godel to Feynman Complexity theory: From Godel to Feynman History and basic concepts Resources, reductions and P vs. NP Probabilistic and quantum computation Complexity classes Space complexity and circuit complexity Oracles and the polynomial time hierarchy Circuit lower bounds "Natural" proofs of lower bounds Bibliography Average case complexity Average case complexity Bibliography Exploring complexity through reductions Introduction PCP theorem and hardness of computing approximate solutions Which problems have strongly exponential complexity? Toda's theorem: $PH\subseteq P^{\ No. P}$ Bibliography Quantum computation Introduction Bipartite quantum systems Quantum circuits and Shor's factoring algorithm Bibliography Lower bounds: Circuit and communication complexity Communication complexity Lower bounds for probabilistic communication complexity Communication complexity and circuit depth Lower bound for directed $st$-connectivity Lower bound for $FORK$ (continued) Bibliography Proof complexity An introduction to proof complexity Lower bounds in proof complexity Automatizability and interpolation The restriction method Other research and open problems Bibliography Randomness in computation Pseudorandomness Preface Computational indistinguishability Pseudorandom generators Pseudorandom functions and concluding remarks Appendix Bibliography Pseudorandomness-Part II Introduction Deterministic simulation of randomized algorithms The Nisan-Wigderson generator Analysis of the Nisan-Wigderson generator Randomness extractors Bibliography Probabilistic proof systems-Part I Interactive proofs Zero-knowledge proofs Suggestions for further reading Bibliography Probabilistically checkable proofs Introduction to PCPs NP-hardness of PCS A couple of digressions Proof composition and the PCP theorem Bibliography.
Poverty and Social Impact Analysis by the IMF : Review of Methodology and Selected Evidence

The Poverty Reduction and Growth Facility (PRGF) is used by the IMF to provide support for countries' implementation of their poverty reduction and growth strategies. A key requirement in the design of PRGF programs is understanding the effects of reform program measures on vulnerable groups - particularly the poor - and how to devise measures to mitigate any negative effects. Poverty and social impact analysis (PSIA) is a critical instrument for pursuing this goal. The IMF has therefore established a small group of staff economists to facilitate the integration of PSIA into PRGF-supported programs. In this book, the group's members review analytical techniques used in PSIA as well as several important topics to which PSIA can make valuable contributions. These reviews should prove useful and interesting to readers interested in PSIA in general and the IMF's PSIA efforts in particular.