cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Incidence and Return to Play After Biceps Tenodesis in Professional Baseball Players

Purpose To determine return to play (RTP) rates after biceps tenodesis (BT) in professional baseball players. Methods Major League Baseball has maintained a prospective database containing all major and minor league baseball players who have undergone shoulder surgery since 2010. All players who had undergone BT were included. Minimum follow-up was 24 months, and thus we included data from 2010 to 2013. Using this database we determined the incidence, demographics, prior surgery history, concomitant procedures, RTP rates, and time to RTP. Results Between 2010 and 2013, 17 professional baseball players underwent BT. Seventy-one percent of the 17 were pitchers, and 29% of the 17 were in the major league. Forty-seven percent of the 17 had a history of a prior shoulder surgery and 47% of the 17 underwent concomitant labral repair. For all players, RTP after BT was 35%, whereas RTP after BT without a concomitant reconstructive procedure was 44% in 10 ± 6 months, and 25% for those who underwent both BT and a concomitant reconstructive procedure ( P = .620). All players who RTP were able to return to at least 20 games at their preoperative level of play. Return to professional play was 80% among position players and 17% among pitchers ( P = .028). For those pitchers who RTP, performance was not statistically changed. Conclusions Professional baseball players who undergo BT have a 35% rate of return to their prior level of play. Whereas pitchers have only a 17% rate of RTP, position players have an 80% rate of RTP. Of those who returned, all returned to their prior level of play. The pitchers who returned had no significant change in performance statistics. Level of Evidence Level IV, therapeutic study, a case series.
Spices and Condiments

Traffic in spices existed very early in the history of commerce. In some countries spices were even used as a medium of exchange. These spices were gathered from wild plants, air dried, and shipped throughout the then known world. Some spices lent themselves to cultivation and, slowly at first, to genetic improvement in species and varieties.
In-hospital outcomes in invasively managed acute myocardial infarction patients who receive morphine.

OBJECTIVE We aimed to analyze the association between morphine and in-hospital outcomes in invasively managed ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and non-ST elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS) patients. BACKGROUND Morphine is commonly used for analgesia in the setting of acute coronary syndromes (ACS); however, recently its utility in ACS has come under closer scrutiny. METHODS We identified all STEMI and NSTE-ACS patients undergoing coronary angiogram +/- percutaneous intervention between January 2009 and July 2016 in our center and recorded patient characteristics and inpatient outcomes. RESULTS Overall, 3027 patients were examined. Overall, STEMI patients who received morphine had no difference in in-hospital mortality [4.18% vs. 7.54%, odds ratio (OR): 0.36, P = 0.19], infarct size (mean troponin level 0.75 ng/mL vs. 1.29 ng/mL, P = 0.32) or length of hospital stay (P = 0.61). The NSTE-ACS patients who received morphine had a longer hospital stay (mean 6.58 days vs. 4.78 days, P < 0.0001) and larger infarct size (mean troponin 1.16 ng/mL vs. 0.90 ng/mL, P = 0.02). Comparing matched patients, the use of morphine was associated with larger infarct size (mean troponin 1.14 ± 1.92 ng/mL vs. 0.83 ± 1.49 ng/mL, P = 0.01), longer hospital stay (6.5 ± 6.82 days vs. 4.89 ± 5.36 days, P = 0.004) and a trend towards increased mortality (5% vs. 2%, OR: 2.55, P = 0.06) in NSTE-ACS patients but morphine did not affect outcomes in the propensity matched STEMI patients. CONCLUSION In a large retrospective study, morphine was associated with larger infarct size, a longer hospital stay and a trend towards increased mortality in invasively managed NSTE-ACS patients even after adjustment for clinical characteristics.
Pet Imaging in Carotid Stenosis

Positron Emission Tomography (PET) is a physiological, not anatomical imaging method: it is not used for the measurement or detection of carotid artery disease. It is primarily a research tool that has several important applications for the study of human carotid atherosclerotic disease. Functional imaging methods, including PET, have provided compelling data that embolic and hemodynamic factors have a synergistic effect on stroke risk. The foremost role of PET has been in studies of the assessment of the hemodynamic and metabolic effects of these lesions on the distal cerebral circulation. This information has proven prognostic value. In addition, molecular imaging applications have been described, allowing investigation of physiological aspects of the plaque itself. Finally, some radiotracers may be used to identify recent brain injury. This could help distinguish symptomatic from asymptomatic lesions, a critical distinction in carotid disease.
Allergic Fungal Sinusitis Secondary to Dermatiaceous Fungi—Curvularia Lunata and Alternaria:

Allergic fungal sinusitis is a newly recognized entity consisting of a pansinusitis with allergic mucinous infiltrates in all involved sinuses. The disease process itself is very different from all other types of rhinosinusitis. Pathophysiologically the disease is a combination of both IgE-mediated and antibody-antigen reactions to the specific fungal antigens. Here we present two cases of allergic fungal sinusitis--one caused by Curvularia lunata species (an ubiquitous soil fungi), another caused by Alternaria. Only one other case of allergic fungal sinusitis caused by curvularia in which extensive immunologic testing was done has appeared in the literature. No reports of alternaria causing allergic fungal sinusitis have appeared in the literature. Diagnostic criteria for allergic fungal sinusitis include radiologic evidence of pansinusitis in an atopic individual; findings at surgery of allergic mucin; positive fungal cultures; and specific immunologic testing, including both humoral and cellular arms of the immune system. Treatment options for allergic fungal sinusitis are discussed and include surgery alone, surgery and steroids, or steroids alone. The role of allergy immunotherapy injections remains to be defined. In general, fungal infections--and especially phaeohyphomycosis--are very rare, but appear to be increasing in frequency, especially in the paranasal sinus region.
Persian Gulf War, Stress Effects of*

This article reviews published studies related to the effects of war stress on American and Israeli civilians and American veterans during Operation Desert Shield/Storm. While the primary focus is on psychological symptoms and syndromes, we recognize that the distinction between physical and psychological illness is often unclear and at times artificial.
Aggregate base/granular subbase quality affecting fatigue cracking of conventional flexible pavements in Minnesota

High quality aggregate materials are becoming increasingly scarce and expensive, and therefore optimizing the use of locally available materials is becoming an economic necessity. The research study highlighted in this paper aimed at optimizing the use of varying qualities of aggregate base/granular subbase materials found in Minnesota for achieving cost-effective conventional flexible pavement designs with satisfactory fatigue performances. The methodology consisted of establishing a comprehensive pavement structure sensitivity analysis matrix to include different pavement layer thicknesses and mechanistic material input properties for quality effects and then employing a validated nonlinear finite element program to compute asphalt tensile strains for the various sensitivity matrix variables. The contributions of the unbound aggregate base and granular subbase layers to pavement support and performance were evaluated from a mechanistic-empirical pavement design perspective by incorporating in the analyses cross-anisotropic stress-dependent layer modulus characterizations linked to two different aggregate quality levels (high and low). Aggregate base quality was found to significantly influence bottom-up fatigue cracking; whereas subbase material quality was somewhat important but not as influential as base material quality. Both initial base and subbase construction costs and rutting potential evaluation indicated that the use of marginal quality materials in either base/subbase courses could be cost-effective, depending on the actual pavement thickness and subgrade support conditions.
Selective disruption of TLR2-MyD88 interaction inhibits inflammation and attenuates Alzheimer’s pathology

Induction of TLR2 activation depends on its association with the adapter protein MyD88. We have found that TLR2 and MyD88 levels are elevated in the hippocampus and cortex of patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and in a 5XFAD mouse model of AD. Since there is no specific inhibitor of TLR2, to target induced TLR2 from a therapeutic angle, we engineered a peptide corresponding to the TLR2-interacting domain of MyD88 (TIDM) that binds to the BB loop of only TLR2, and not other TLRs. Interestingly, WT TIDM peptide inhibited microglial activation induced by fibrillar Aβ1-42 and lipoteichoic acid, but not 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium, dsRNA, bacterial lipopolysaccharide, flagellin, or CpG DNA. After intranasal administration, WT TIDM peptide reached the hippocampus, reduced hippocampal glial activation, lowered Aβ burden, attenuated neuronal apoptosis, and improved memory and learning in 5XFAD mice. However, WT TIDM peptide was not effective in 5XFAD mice lacking TLR2. In addition to its effects in 5XFAD mice, WT TIDM peptide also suppressed the disease process in mice with experimental allergic encephalomyelitis and collagen-induced arthritis. Therefore, selective targeting of the activated status of 1 component of the innate immune system by WT TIDM peptide may be beneficial in AD as well as other disorders in which TLR2/MyD88 signaling plays a role in disease pathogenesis.
Polymer Modification Via Repeating Unit Isomerization

Traditional syntheses of copolymers fall into one of two classes: those accomplished by direct copolymerization of two monomers of differing structure, and those accomplished by chemical modification of homopolymers. Recently the concept of “isomerization polymerization” has provided a means of preparing copolymers in one step via polymerization of a single monomer. Isomerization polymerization may be defined as a process whereby a monomer of structure A is converted to a polymer of repeating unit structure B, wherein the conversion of A to B represents a structural change more substantial than simple ring-opening or double bond addition1 (Eqn 1).
Risk Factors for Conversion to Total Hip Arthroplasty After Acetabular Fractures Involving the Posterior Wall.

Objectives:Identify risk factors for early conversion to total hip arthroplasty (THA) in an effort to aid in counseling patients and selecting the optimal treatment for patients who sustain a fracture involving the posterior wall of the acetabulum.Design:Retrospective cohort analysis.Setting:Level I
Reframing the Value Case for Carbon Capture and Storage

In meeting long term climate ambitions at regional and national levels, there is a need to retain and ultimately grow high value jobs and production activity across the economy. This is reflected in the ‘Just Transition’ element of the 2015 Paris Agreement and will always be a preferable outcome to job offshoring/GDP loss and not meeting targets in the short and long term (UNFCCC, 2015, p4). The inevitable consideration of how best to value alternative approaches to deliver against these ambitions requires a broadening of focus from project cost metrics to a political economy and ultimately wider societal perspective. A key conclusion of the current study is that the most useful and easily communicated way of measuring a broader economic impact of Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) investments and associated government support is in terms of the expenditures required to sustain existing and/or create new jobs and/or other outcomes valued by society. Such a focus is likely to be particularly important in the UK context of the 2019 HM Treasury Spending Review, where all investment projects are likely to be judged on the basis of contributing to prosperity going forward and value delivered per pound spent. This is an important context for the CCUS Delivery and Investment Frameworks planned for 2019 in the UK Government’s CCUS Action Plan Economic multiplier methods enable a transparent and rigorous initial assessment of how many direct, indirect and induced supply chain jobs may be sustained and/or created where a solution like CCUS is introduced to allow industries to decarbonise and continue to grow in key regional locations.
Hollywood’s Global Expansion and Racialized Film Industry:

A theory on the political economy of image production argues that the U.S. film industry, namely, Hollywood, prioritizes financial considerations over racial justice or political correctness. Decis...
Star Wars: What Is the Professional Responsibility of Computer Scientists?

In the issue of 19 April 1985, the “News and Comment” section of Science devoted a full page to the administration’s Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI), the so-called Star Wars program. In that article the following passage appeared: As many as 100 million lines of error-free software code must be written for a network of computers capable of up to 1 trillion operations per second. “We don’t want to have a few lines of bad code mistakenly set off a nuclear weapon or cause something to miss a target,” says Edward Wegman, chief of the mathematical sciences divisions at the Office of Naval Research and one of the program’s primary research reviewers, only partly in jest.
Effect of Varying Definitions of Hypopnea on the Diagnosis and Clinical Outcomes of Sleep-Disordered Breathing: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Study Objectives:Various criteria have been used for scoring hypopneas, leading to difficulties when comparing results in clinical and research settings. We conducted a systematic review and meta-a...
Field Effect Modulation of Electrocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution at Back-Gated Two-Dimensional MoS2 Electrodes.

Electrocatalytic activity for hydrogen evolution at monolayer MoS2 electrodes can be enhanced by the application of an electric field normal to the electrode plane. The electric field is produced b...
An evaluation of stringent filtering to improve species distribution models from citizen science data

Author(s): Steen, VA; Elphick, CS; Tingley, MW | Abstract: Aim: Citizen science data are increasingly used for modelling species distributions because they offer broad spatiotemporal coverage of local observations. However, such data are often collected without experimental design or set survey methods, raising the risk that bias and noise will compromise modelled predictions. We tested the ability of species distribution models (SDMs) built from these low-structure citizen science data to match the quality of SDMs from systematically collected data and tested whether stringent data filtering improved predictions. Location: Northeastern USA. Methods: We evaluated models built from a rapidly growing dataset of avian occurrences reported by birders—eBird—against models built from four independent, systematically collected datasets. We developed SDMs for 96 species using both data sources and compared their predictive abilities. We also tested whether culling eBird data by applying stringent data filters on survey effort or observer expertise improved predictions. Results: We found that SDMs built from low-structure citizen science data matched or exceeded performance of SDMs from systematically collected datasets for 12%–31% of species ((Formula presented.) =n22%), depending on the dataset. At least one culling option produced equivalent or better performance for 40%–70% of species ((Formula presented.) =n49%). Data culling by restricting survey effort improved predictions more than restricting by observer expertise. The optimal effort restriction differed by dataset, and for three of the datasets was further informed by species traits. Main conclusions: Species distribution models developed using low-structure citizen science data sometimes performed as well as those from systematic data. Culling generally improved models, but results were heterogeneous, prohibiting clear recommendations for how to cull. Our results indicate that the growing availability of citizen science data holds potential for creating high-quality spatial predictions, but that time should be invested in determining how best to cull datasets and that one-size-fits-all solutions beyond basic outlier filtering may be hard to find.
Exemplary Youth Leadership Series: Inspire a Shared Vision

This publication series is designed to outline strategies and experiences to expose youth to and engage them with leadership concepts. In this series, activities have been developed to introduce youth to Kouzes and Posner’s five practices of exemplary leaders. This new 2-page article allows students to engage with the second practice: inspiring a shared vision. Leaders shape the trajectory of their organization. The two outlined activities help students illustrate the idea of creating a unique vision and recruiting others to follow that vision. Written by Megan Stein and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Agricultural Education and Communication.https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/wc348
Recurrent Disease After Liver Transplantation

Liver transplantation is an effective treatment for many different types of acute and chronic liver disease. Many diseases recur following liver transplantation. This review provides an update in the latest clinical developments in recurrent disease after liver transplantation. Low-dose corticosteroids are associated with a reduction in recurrent autoimmune hepatitis following liver transplantation. “De novo” autoimmune hepatitis should be considered and treated as a form of allograft rejection. Tacrolimus has been reported to increase the risk of recurrent primary sclerosing cholangitis following liver transplantation. Autoimmune liver diseases such as primary biliary cholangitis, autoimmune hepatitis, and primary sclerosing cholangitis notably recur after transplant although the clinical significance of recurrent disease remains unclear. The clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of recurrent autoimmune liver disease are variable and retransplantation is uncommonly needed. With the indications for liver transplantation constantly expanding, recurrence of original disease remains an important topic requiring further study.
Distinct Neuronal Populations Contribute to Trace Conditioning and Extinction Learning in the Hippocampal CA1

Trace conditioning and extinction learning depend on the hippocampus, but it remains unclear how ongoing neural activities in the hippocampus are modulated during different learning processes. To explore this question, we performed calcium imaging in a large number of individual CA1 neurons during both trace eye-blink conditioning and subsequent extinction learning in mice. Using trial-averaged calcium fluorescence analysis, we found direct evidence that in real time, as learning emerges, distinct populations of CA1 cells contribute to trace conditioned learning versus extinction learning. Furthermore, we examined network connectivity by calculating co-activity between CA1 neuron pairs, and found that CA1 network connectivity is different between conditioning and extinction and between correct versus incorrect behavioral responses during trace conditioned learning. However, the overall connectivity density remains constant across these behavioral conditions. Together, our results demonstrate that distinct populations of CA1 neurons, forming different sub-networks with unique connectivity patterns, encode different aspects of learning.
Evaluation of Human Papillomavirus Vaccination After Pharmacist-Led Intervention: A Pilot Project in an Ambulatory Clinic at a Large Academic Urban Medical Center:

ObjectivesDespite the safety and efficacy of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, many persons are still not receiving it. The purpose of this pilot project was to evaluate the number of first d...
A Closer Examination of the Relationship between Religiosity and Problematic Pornography Viewing in Heterosexual Men

Problematic pornography viewing is a considerable issue for religious men. We tested a conceptual model positing scrupulosity and self-compassion as simultaneous mediators of the relationship betwe...
Healthcare provider perspectives on pediatric cancer survivorship care plans: a single institution pilot study.

Survivorship care plans (SCPs) are used to facilitate communication between oncology and primary care providers (PCPs) after cancer treatment and to assist cancer survivors with healthcare decisions. We evaluated pediatric oncology providers’ experiences creating and delivering SCPs. We also evaluated PCPs’ opinions of SCPs. Together, oncology nurses and oncologists created individualized SCPs for leukemia patients treated at a children’s hospital in Utah, with nurses in charge of inputting the majority of SCP content. We surveyed providers after each SCP was completed. We also mailed SCPs to PCPs with a survey on SCP content and their knowledge and comfort level caring for cancer survivors. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize survey content. A total of 6 nurses and 8 oncologists created 21 SCPs. On average, nurses assisted with 3.5 SCPs and spent 209 min (range 100–600 min) on completing their sections of each SCP, whereas oncologists assisted with 2.6 SCPs and spent 47.4 min (range 15–120). For most SCPs, there was agreement that they should be shared with PCPs (nurse surveys 71.4%, oncologist surveys 100%). Of the 15 participating PCPs, only 28% felt prepared to manage long-term effects in pediatric cancer survivors. They agreed that the SCP would improve communication with their patient’s oncologist (80%) and their knowledge for future care (100%). SCPs require substantial clinician time to create, but are seen as useful by PCPs. PCPs require specific guidelines and resources concerning ongoing care for pediatric cancer survivors.
Memorability of words in arbitrary verbal associations modulates memory retrieval in the anterior temporal lobe.

Despite large individual differences in memory performance, people remember certain stimuli with overwhelming consistency. This phenomenon is referred to as the memorability of an individual item. However, it remains unknown whether memorability also affects our ability to retrieve associations between items. Here, using a paired-associates verbal memory task, we combine behavioural data, computational modelling and direct recordings from the human brain to examine how memorability influences associative memory retrieval. We find that certain words are correctly retrieved across participants irrespective of the cues used to initiate memory retrieval. These words, which share greater semantic similarity with other words, are more readily available during retrieval and lead to more intrusions when retrieval fails. Successful retrieval of these memorable items, relative to less memorable ones, results in faster reinstatement of neural activity in the anterior temporal lobe. Collectively, our data reveal how the brain prioritizes certain information to facilitate memory retrieval. Xie et al. combine evidence from behavioural data, computational modelling and intracranial electroencephalogram methods to show that the human brain prioritizes certain information to facilitate associative memory retrieval.
The Volume of Blood Shed During the Bleeding Time Correlates With the Peripheral Venous Hematocrit

Abstract : The relation between the bleeding time, the peripheral venous hematocrit and the amount of blood shed at the template bleeding time site has not been previously defined. We studied this relation in 227 individuals: 26 were patients with ITP, 137 were patients with a variety of other bleeding disorders, and 64 were normal subjects. The bleeding time for the normal group was 7.1 +/- 1.2 minutes, and the amount of shed blood was 136.4 +/- 47.2 microliters. In patients with ITP the bleeding time was 14.0 +/- 4.1 minutes and the shed blood was 508.1 +/- 387 microliters. In the group of individuals with other miscellaneous bleeding disorders, the mean bleeding time was 9.0 + 3.5 minutes and the amount of shed blood was 224.7 +/- 184 microliters. Bleeding times from all of the normal and abnormal individuals showed a correlation of 0.75, p < 0.001 with respect to the amount of shed blood on the filter paper and a correlation of 0.28, p < 001 with respect to the peripheral venous hematocrit. There was also a significant correlation between the bleeding time and the platelet count (r = 0.43, p < 0.05), in patients with ITP. This study demonstrates that the volume of blood shed at the bleeding time site correlates with the peripheral venous hematocrit, and emphasizes the contribution of the hematocrit to primary hemostasis in normal subjects and patients with bleeding disorders.
COVID-19 Spreading Dynamics with Vaccination - Allocation Strategy, Return to Normalcy and Vaccine Hesitancy

ABSTRACT In this work we use mathematical modeling to analyse the dynamics of COVID-19 spread after a vaccination program is initiated. The model used is a delay differential equation developed earlier by our group. Basis of currently available data, our principal findings are as follows. (a) For fastest deceleration of the pandemic, people with high interaction rate such as grocers and airline cabin crew should be given priority in vaccine access. (b) Individuals who have been vaccinated may be selectively cleared to return to normal activities without significant risk of a resurgence in cases. (c) If an infection as well as a vaccine confers immunity for a duration τ0, then the pandemic can be eliminated by vaccinating people at a sufficiently high rate. Unless τ0 is very small, the cutoff rate required appears feasible to achieve in practice. (d) The presence of a substantial minority of vaccine-hesitant population might not amount to a significant threat or even an inconvenience to a vaccine-compliant majority population.
Priming of Myelin-Specific T Cells in the Absence of Dendritic Cells Results in Accelerated Development of Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis

Abstract Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), the animal model of multiple sclerosis (MS), is predominantly mediated by pro-inflammatory CD4+ T cell responses to CNS antigens, including myelin proteolipid protein (PLP). Dendritic cells (DCs) are considered critical for inducing T cell responses against infectious agents, but the importance of DCs in priming self-reactive CD4+ T cells in autoimmune disease such as MS has been unclear. To determine the requirement of DCs in PLP-specific CD4+ T cell responses and EAE, we genetically deleted CD11c+ DCs in PLP T cell receptor (TCR) transgenic SJL mice constitutively. DC deficiency did not impair the development, selection or the pathogenic function of PLP-specific CD4+ T cells in these mice, and resulted in accelerated spontaneous EAE compared to DC sufficient controls. In addition, using a genetic approach to ablate DCs conditionally in SJL mice, we show that CD11c+ DCs were dispensable for presenting exogenous or endogenous myelin antigen to PLP-specific T cells and for promoting pro-inflammatory T cell responses and severe EAE. Our findings demonstrate that constitutive or conditional ablation of CD11c+ DCs diminished self-tolerance to PLP autoantigen. They further show that in the absence of DCs, non-DCs can efficiently present CNS myelin antigens such as PLP to self-reactive T cells, resulting in accelerated onset of spontaneous or induced EAE.
NEUTRINO MASS MATRIX FROM Δ(27) SYMMETRY

The discrete subgroup Δ(27) of SU(3) has some interesting properties which may be useful for understanding charged-lepton and neutrino mass matrices. Assigning leptons to the 3 and $\bar{\bf 3}$ representations of Δ(27), a simple form of the Majorana neutrino mass matrix is obtained and compared to present data.
Glucocorticoid Abnormalities in Female Rats Exposed to a Predator-Based Psychosocial Stress Model of PTSD

People with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) exhibit heightened anxiety and enhanced negative feedback of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. We previously reported that male rats exposed to a predator-based psychosocial stress model of PTSD exhibited comparable changes in anxiety-like behavior and HPA axis activity, including lower baseline levels of corticosterone and a greater suppression of corticosterone after dexamethasone administration. Here, we assessed whether we would observe similar effects in female rats exposed to this model. Adult female Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed to a cat on two occasions (separated by 10 days), in combination with chronic social instability. Three weeks after the second cat exposure, we assessed anxiety-like behavior on an elevated plus maze (EPM) and collected blood samples from rats in the absence or presence of dexamethasone to quantify serum corticosterone levels. Although stressed females did not display heightened anxiety on the EPM, they exhibited significantly lower overall corticosterone levels and a greater suppression of corticosterone after dexamethasone administration. The observation of significantly lower overall corticosterone levels in stressed females was replicated in a separate, independent experiment. These findings suggest that the predator-based psychosocial stress model of PTSD may be useful for studying mechanisms that underlie changes in HPA axis function in females exposed to trauma.
Solving Machine Learning Problems.

Can a machine learn Machine Learning? This work trains a machine learning model to solve machine learning problems from a University undergraduate level course. We generate a new training set of questions and answers consisting of course exercises, homework, and quiz questions from MIT's 6.036 Introduction to Machine Learning course and train a machine learning model to answer these questions. Our system demonstrates an overall accuracy of 96% for open-response questions and 97% for multiple-choice questions, compared with MIT students' average of 93%, achieving grade A performance in the course, all in real-time. Questions cover all 12 topics taught in the course, excluding coding questions or questions with images. Topics include: (i) basic machine learning principles; (ii) perceptrons; (iii) feature extraction and selection; (iv) logistic regression; (v) regression; (vi) neural networks; (vii) advanced neural networks; (viii) convolutional neural networks; (ix) recurrent neural networks; (x) state machines and MDPs; (xi) reinforcement learning; and (xii) decision trees. Our system uses Transformer models within an encoder-decoder architecture with graph and tree representations. An important aspect of our approach is a data-augmentation scheme for generating new example problems. We also train a machine learning model to generate problem hints. Thus, our system automatically generates new questions across topics, answers both open-response questions and multiple-choice questions, classifies problems, and generates problem hints, pushing the envelope of AI for STEM education.
Modularity and Combination of Associative Commutative Congruence Closure Algorithms enriched with Semantic Properties.

Algorithms for computing congruence closure of ground equations over uninterpreted symbols and interpreted symbols satisfying associativity and commutativity (AC) properties are proposed. The algorithms are based on a framework for computing a congruence closure by abstracting nonflat terms by constants as proposed first in Kapur's congruence closure algorithm (RTA97). The framework is general, flexible, and has been extended also to develop congruence closure algorithms for the cases when associative-commutative function symbols can have additional properties including idempotency, nilpotency, identities, cancellativity and group properties as well as their various combinations. Algorithms are modular; their correctness and termination proofs are simple, exploiting modularity. Unlike earlier algorithms, the proposed algorithms neither rely on complex AC compatible well-founded orderings on nonvariable terms nor need to use the associative-commutative unification and extension rules in completion for generating canonical rewrite systems for congruence closures. They are particularly suited for integrating into the Satisfiability modulo Theories (SMT) solvers. A new way to view Groebner basis algorithm for polynomial ideals with integer coefficients as a combination of the congruence closures over the AC symbol * with the identity 1 and the congruence closure over an Abelian group with + is outlined.
Invariant Tensor-to-Matrix Mappings for Evaluation of Tensorial Expressions

A class of mappings is presented, parameterized by a variable η, that operates on tensorial expressions to yield equivalent matrical expressions which are then easily evaluated, either numerically or symbolically, using standard matrix operations. The tensorial expressions considered involve scalar, second- and fourth- order tensors, double contractions, inversion and transposition. Also addressed is coordinate transformation and eigenanalysis of fourth- order tensors. The class of mappings considered is invariant, meaning that for a given η the corresponding mapping depends only on the order of the tensor upon which it acts and not, for example, on its physical interpretation (e.g., stress vs. strain, or stiffness vs. compliance). As a result the proposed mappings avoid ad hoc definitions like that of engineering shear strain (i.e., γij:=2∈ij for i ≠ j) which is inconsistent with an invariant mapping. Two convenient choices for the parameter η are presented.
Dietary management of an obese kinkajou (Potos flavus) with congestive heart failure secondary to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

An adult castrated male pet kinkajou (Potos flavus) with a history of bilateral stifle osteoarthritis was diagnosed and successfully treated for congestive heart failure secondary to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. The animal was markedly obese and with a presenting body weight of 8.8 kg. The kinkajou’s home diet was not balanced and there was no energy restriction. Dietary modification was directed as part of the patient’s clinical management, and owners were given guidance on content and proportions of the recommended diet. Dietary changes were implemented over several months with some adaptations based on the kinkajou’s food preferences and clinical improvement. The maintenance diet was calculated to about 1047 KJ/day and mainly consisted of an assortment of fruit and sugar-free juice. The kinkajou responded well to its new diet, and over a 6-month period its weight decreased by almost 40%. Obesity is considered a major risk factor for developing cardiac disease in many mammalian species and may contribute to the high prevalence of cardiomyopathy in this particular species. Proper diet composition, adhering to what is known about diets in the wild, along with controlled energy intake, can reduce the health risks commonly related to obesity, increase longevity, and offer better care for captive kinkajous.
Modes of Crustal Accretion in Back‐Arc Basins: Inferences from the Lau Basin

As island arc rifting evolves to mature back-arc spreading, the nature of melt generation and mode ofcrustal accretion may vary in response to the interplay of different subduction-related processes and conditions, including (1) changes in mantle dynamics from flux-melting and buoyancy-driven upwelling at the arc volcanic front to decompression melting driven by plate separation at back-arc spreading centers; (2) re-circulation of refractory material through arc and back-arc melting regimes by mantle wedge comer flow, (3) changes in the locus ofmagmatic centers relative to the arc volcanic front; (4) variable locus of initial rifting and breakup; (5) spatially varying rheology attributable to mantle wedge hydration gradients with distance from the slab; (6) slab subduction rate, dip, and length. We discuss the possible influence of these factors on crustal accretion processes in light of observations from intraoceanic back-arc basins, with particular focus on new compilations of swath bathymetry and sidescan imagery from the Lau Basin. In the Lau Basin south of 18°S, the active spreading centers undergo large changes in morphology and crustal characteristics as they separate from the arc volcanic front. Ahead of the southern limit of organized seafloor spreading, a broad area of high acoustic backscatter indicates a wide, "distributed" form of crustal accretion. Parts of the western Lau Basin have been previously interpreted as remnants of a tectonically rifted preexisting arc. The swath mapping data show, however, that western basin morphology is similar to that formed by the sites of currently active magmatic crustal accretion to the east. These observations support a revised model of Lau Basin evolution in which essentially the entire back-arc basin is formed by magmatic crustal accretion, but crustal thickness and morphology reflect the changing locus of the magmatic centers with respect to a mantle wedge of varying chemical fertility and rheology. Compared to mid-ocean settings, the observations imply an expanded range of crustal accretion variables in arc-proximal magmatic centers in which seafloor morphology is more indicative of mantle wedge chemistry than spreading rate.
Black Families and Schooling in Rural South Carolina: Families' and Educators' Disjunctive Interpretations of Parental Involvement

The positive impact on children's educational trajectories when effective home-school partnerships are established has been extensively documented. This article shares findings from a 13-month research study in a rural, southern community in South Carolina that sought to investigate the nature of the “partnerships” formed between educators and families, while challenging stereotypes and misperceptions that prevent such partnerships from unfolding. In doing so, the researcher makes visible the experiences of Black families, students, and schools in communities rarely studied—poor, rural Black communities in the southern United States. The researcher uses the actual words of the teachers and parents to make visible the disjunctive interpretations about one of the major themes from the study, parental involvement as relationships. Finally, the researcher offers implications for educators and parents as they do the work necessary to form relationships that really benefit students.
States Can Sometimes Do More Than Stack Symbols in PDA's

In pushdown automata, states can sometimes do more than stack symbols. More precisely, reducing the state set by a factor of k may require an increase in the stack alphabet by a factor of k2. These results are based on the observation that the "triple construction" for converting a pushdown automaton into a context-free grammar is optimal.
Hydrodynamic response of the Breton Sound estuary to pulsed Mississippi River inputs

Abstract Pulsed re-introduction of Mississippi River water into the deltaic plain has been proposed as a wetland restoration strategy for coastal Louisiana. In this study, the hydrodynamic response of the Breton Sound estuary to a two-week pulse of Mississippi River water via the Caernarvon river diversion structure was investigated using a barotropic, three-dimensional, Finite-Volume Coastal Ocean Model (FVCOM). The numerical model was driven by tidal and subtidal forcing at the open Gulf boundary, freshwater discharge from the Caernarvon river diversion structure, as well as wind stress at the water surface. After successfully validating the model with field observations, three numerical experiments were run to assess the response of current, water level, and marsh flooding to different diversion discharge scenarios. The three scenarios considered were: a pulsed scenario of ∼200 m3 s−1 corresponding to the actual diversion discharge in March 2001, a constant discharge scenario of 40 m3 s−1 corresponding to the annually averaged discharge of 2001, and a scenario with no discharge. Numerical simulation results indicated that constant 40 m3 s−1 discharge caused little change in wetland inundation comparing to the no discharge case and, thus, inter-exchange between deep channels and the wetlands was not improved by this rate of diversion discharge. In contrast, the two-week ∼200 m3 s−1 discharge caused enhanced water exchange between wetlands and adjacent water bodies, substantially increasing water velocity in the bayous and channels of the upper estuary. These effects occurred in the estuary to about 20–25 km from the diversion structure, and caused a noticeable increase in down-estuary residual current with a significant reduction of local estuarine residence times for the whole estuary. Beyond 30 km from the diversion structure, the impact of high water discharge was small and the hydrodynamics was mostly controlled by tides and wind.
Electron beam tomography in women. Is it a valuable test

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of mortality in women and a major cause of morbidity. Coronary artery disease (CAD) accounts for nearly half of all CVD deaths. Traditional risk factors are very helpful in predicting the development of CAD in women; however, many women suffer events in the absence of established risk factors for atherosclerosis. To meet the challenge of CAD, several tools have been developed to identify atherosclerotic disease in its preclinical stages, with the hope of modifying its natural history. In this article, we review the current literature on utilization of electron beam tomography (EBT) for detection of CAD as a tool to conduct risk stratification in the general asymptomatic female population as well as among asymptomatic women. In conclusion, EBT can be used to estimate the overall coronary atherosclerotic plaque burden in women. It can also be used to diagnose its presence and determine its extent; furthermore, information from the coronary artery calcium scores can be used to assess the likelihood of obstructive disease and to provide prognostic information. Finally, EBT has the potential to determine the consequences of therapeutic interventions regarding progression, stabilization, or regression of coronary atherosclerotic disease.
Regional Development in China: States, Globalization, and Inequality. Yehua Dennis Wei

(2002). Regional Development in China: States, Globalization, and Inequality. Yehua Dennis Wei. Urban Geography: Vol. 23, No. 4, pp. 395-396.
Using GeoVRML for 3D oceanographic data visualizations

The Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute operates two Remotely Operated Vehicles that routinely explore the depths of the ocean at sites around the north eastern Pacific Ocean. Our growing archive of observations -- which include high frequency navigation and environmental records, video frame grabs, sampling events, annotations of the video record, and multi-beam sonar bathymetric maps of the dive areas -- represents a rich resource for scientific studies. Recent advances in commodity 3D computer graphics hardware and tools created by the GeoVRML working group have enabled efficient and easy-to-use visualizations of these data via a standard web browser. Visualizations of MBARI's 3,000-plus ROV dives are now available via our internal web-based Expedition database. The GeoVRML implementation allows for geospatially accurate representation of any ROV dive made anywhere on the globe. The system has been in place at MBARI for over two years and use of it is growing. According to people who have used it the system is not just cool but also useful.
A New Acute Phase Protein elicited in Mice by Streptolysin O and Other Toxic or Infectious Agents.

A new acute phase plasma component has been found in mice exposed to certain toxic materials and pathogenic bacteria. The abnormal component, detected by immunodiffusion employing absorbed antiserum, was chiefly studied in plasma of streptolysin O-treated mice where it appears within 24 hours after intravenous administration of a sublethal dose of the toxin. The new factor is a protein having the electrophoretic mobility of a slow α2-globulin. It is devoid of lipid and separate from the streptolysin O inhibitory lipoprotein that is also induced by administration of the streptococcal toxin. The factor, moreover, appears clearly distinct from haptoglobin or C-reactive protein and seems to be a unique type of acute phase protein. Its partial purification by starch block electrophoresis is described. A number of toxic materials other than streptolysin O, i.e. saponin, Cl. welchii phospholipase C (α-toxin), and endotoxins, were found to elicit the abnormal protein in mice. Phospholipase A (Crotalus adamanteus venom) and staphylococcal α-toxin failed to cause its appearance. Plasma samples of mice acutely infected with Group A streptococci, Staphylococcus aureus or pneumococcus uniformly contained the abnormal component. The significance of this acute phase protein has been considered in relation to the streptolysin O inhibitor and to the acute phase proteins of other animal species. It has been suggested that production of the new component and of the streptolysin O inhibitor may be manifestations of a single process constituting a physiological response to a variety of deleterious agents.
The Effects of Stealing Thunder in Criminal and Civil Trials

The effectiveness of a persuasion technique referred to asstealing thunder was assessed in two simulated jury trials. Stealing thunder is defined as revealing negative information about oneself (or, in a legal setting, one's client) before it is revealed or elicited by another person. In Study 1, 257 college students read or heard one of three versions of a criminal assault trial in which a damaging piece of evidence about the defendant was absent (no thunder), brought up by the prosecutor (thunder), or brought up by the defense attorney and repeated by the prosecutor (stolen thunder). In Study 2, 148 college students heard a civil negligence trial in which damaging evidence about the key plaintiff's witness was absent (no thunder), brought up by the defendant's attorney (thunder), or brought up by the witness himself (stolen thunder). In both studies, stealing thunder significantly reduced the impact of the negative information. A path analysis of the processes underlying the effect suggested that verdicts were affected because of enhanced credibility.