cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Randomized Online Quantile Summary in O(1/epsilon * log(1/epsilon)) Words.

A quantile summary is a data structure that approximates to epsilon-relative error the order statistics of a much larger underlying dataset. In this paper we develop a randomized online quantile summary for the cash register data input model and comparison data domain model that uses O((1/epsilon) log(1/epsilon)) words of memory. This improves upon the previous best upper bound of O((1/epsilon) (log(1/epsilon))^(3/2)) by Agarwal et al. (PODS 2012). Further, by a lower bound of Hung and Ting (FAW 2010) no deterministic summary for the comparison model can outperform our randomized summary in terms of space complexity. Lastly, our summary has the nice property that O((1/epsilon) log(1/epsilon)) words suffice to ensure that the success probability is 1 - exp(-poly(1/epsilon)).
Influence of Thiouracil on Chickens Selected for High and Low Body Weights

Abstract ALTHOUGH experiments have been conducted in which lines were selected for specific characteristics little is known about the physiological mechanisms through which the genes are expressed in causing changes in the selected trait. To study differences in growth rates of lines which have been selected in divergent directions for body weight, one might impair the secretion of the thyroid hormones and observe the ensuing effects on growth since these hormones are implicated in growth processes (Pitt-Rivers and Tata, 1959; Kamar, 1961). The present experiment was designed to provide information on the effect of feeding a ration containing thiouracil to male and female chickens from lines which had been subjected to mass selection in opposite directions for body weight. Several characteristics were measured to ascertain physiological differences in these lines and differences in their response to the feeding of a ration containing thiouracil. Differences in blood pressure were of major concern …
On-site Examination on Neutral-point Insulation of Large Transformer

Through the analysis of some neutral-point insulation faults of large transformers,the necessity of on-site examination on neutral-point insulation of large transformers is discussed.The method of assessing neutral-point insulation of a large transformer through on-site AC voltage-endurance test is presented.Moreover,partial discharge measurement of neutral point of transformer is suggested.
Some Patterns of Component and Language Integration.

pointcut splitObjectClasses(Object obj); pointcut theConstructors(Object obj): splitObjectClasses(obj) && execution(new(..)); pointcut theMethods(Object obj): splitObjectClasses(obj) && execution(* *(..)) && !execution(String toString()); before(Object obj): theConstructors(obj) { makeSplitObject(thisJoinPoint, obj); } Object around(Object obj) : theMethods(obj) && !cflow(execution(* invokeSplitObject(..))) { return invokeSplitObject(thisJoinPoint, obj); } } Note that this aspect excerpt is simplified. The actual aspect implementation in the Frag distribution is more complex because it treats all Java primitive types by separate pointcuts and advices. (This terminology stems from AspectJ and is explained in detail in [Kiczales+2001]). The aspect is defined as an abstract aspect. In concrete aspects the pointcut splitObjectClasses is refined. Here, the classes can be defined by the user to which the aspect is applied. For instance, we can apply the split objects to the classes Circle and Square: public aspect FragSplitObjectCircleSquare extends FragSplitObject { pointcut splitObjectClasses(Object obj): this(obj) && (within(Circle) || within(Square)); ... } The default behavior of this aspect is that all invocations are sent through the COMMAND LANGUAGE, but the invocations are not altered. By re-defining the classes in the dynamic Frag language, one can dynamically compose the internals of the aspect. Thus, here we have applied the SPLIT OBJECT pattern for integrating AspectJ aspect with the Frag COMMAND LANGUAGE. That is, we can compose and configure aspect implementations dynamically at runtime. The same Frag code used for specifying a Java aspect can also be used to specify an aspect in another language (e.g. Tcl, C, or C++). We only have to use another aspect framework for weaving the aspect.
Executive function and early childhood education

Executive function, a term encompassing domain general cognitive processes associated with working memory, inhibitory control, and the flexible shifting of attention is widely studied in research in neuropsychology and cognitive neuroscience. Only within the last two decades have researchers examined the development of these cognitive abilities in typical child populations. A growing body of research indicates that executive function abilities develop rapidly in early childhood, are important contributors to school readiness and early school success, and are highly relevant to early educational programs for children in poverty.
Risk factors and influence of carbapenem exposure on the development of carbapenem resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa bloodstream infections and infections at sterile sites.

Patients with Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections from blood or sterile sites were evaluated to determine risk factors associated with carbapenem resistance (CRPA) compared to carbapenem sensitivity (CSPA) as well as prior carbapenem use and the development of resistance. Retrospective chart review of 80 patients hospitalized with a documented P. aeruginosa infection during 2010–2011. Stored isolates were retested with both Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion and E-tests. Clinical characteristic of patients in the CRPA (N = 21) and the CSPA (N = 59) groups were similar. Hospital acquired (HA) infections were more common in the CRPA group compared to the CSPA group (71 vs 44 %, p = 0.04) and CRPA patients were more likely to have a Foley catheter at the time of infection (71 vs 37 %, p = 0.01). There was more carbapenem use in the CRPA group prior to onset of infection (59 vs 22 %, OR 5.1, 95 % CI 1.3–20.8, p = 0.01). Length of stay was significantly longer in the CRPA group (mean 44 days) compared to the CSPA group (mean 23 days), p = 0.02. Mortality between the two groups was similar and there were no differences between groups for death attributable to Pseudomonas. Patients with CRPA were more likely to have HA infections and to have a multidrug resistant profile. Other identifiable risks included a Foley catheter in place at the time of infection and exposure to a carbapenem prior to infection. Prompt removal of devices and judicious use of antibiotics may be interventions that can impact the development of this kind of infections.
Melanoma on Palms, Soles and Subungual Melanoma Acral Melanoma

Melanomas on acral skin seem to be of two types. Those on the sun damaged dorsal surfaces of the hands (and to a lesser extent, the feet) include a number of conventional melanomas. A more specific type is composed of melanomas on the volar surfaces of the acra, by which we mean the hairless areas of the hands and feet (mostly the palms and soles) and nail beds. In the majority of cases, these melanomas have a distinct lentiginous pattern of growth reminiscent of the lentigo maligna pattern of melanoma and of those of mucous membranes. This type of melanoma must be distinguished from melanocytic nevi found on the same sites. Melanomas of the hands and feet, and of nail beds have different epidemiology and genetic features than conventional melanoma. Because of special considerations, we describe melanoma on the nail apparatus separately.
Using individualized link power settings for energy optimization in hierarchical wireless sensor networks (WSNs)

Wireless sensors are new revolutionary technology. The sensor devices are typically deployed in large numbers to form a communication network. Due to their severe energy constraints and redundancy in sensed data, hierarchal architectures are usually suggested for these networks. In this work, we propose further energy savings by optimizing the local transmission power between the node and its cluster head. The local node to cluster head transmission power is set to the minimum level that guarantees network connectivity. Often, due to close proximity of the cluster head or superior link connectivity, this local transmission power setting is still too high. We present an algorithm that optimizes the local transmission power while ensuring reliable data delivery. The performance of the protocol is evaluated using simulation. Results show significant energy savings while satisfying reliability constraint.
A compact circularly-polarized conformai antenna using an anisotropic artificial ground

In this paper, we present the design, fabrication, and measurement of a compact circularly-polarized conformai antenna employing a finite-sized anisotropic artificial ground plane. The antenna structure consists of a loop monopole on the top and a metallic sheet backed truncated metasurface on the bottom, which are separated by a foam spacer. The metasurface contains an array of two by two loop resonators with a pair of corners chamfered as well as a pair of slots cut into the inner periphery. The integrated antenna, operating at the 2.4 GHz ISM band, has stable characteristics in terms of the input impedance, axial ratio, and gain under structural deformation. A prototype of the antenna was fabricated and characterized, showing a good agreement between simulated and measured results.
Ways of knowing: Implications of writing curriculum in an early childhood classroom

ABSTRACTEarly childhood writing curriculums typically focus on skills and encouraging interest. What children are asked to write is rarely closely examined. Through a self-study of my first and second grade classroom, in this paper I look at the implications of genre when teaching young children. I first identify some of the problems of a popular personal narrative curriculum and then showcase the ways that fiction can be more empowering for my students.
Resistant and susceptible chicken lines show distinctive responses to Newcastle disease virus infection in the lung transcriptome.

Newcastle disease virus (NDV) is a threat to poultry production worldwide. A better understanding of mechanisms of resistance and susceptibility to this virus will improve measures for NDV prevention and control. Males and females from resistant Fayoumi and susceptible Leghorn lines were either challenged with a lentogenic strain of the virus or given a mock infection at 3 weeks of age. The lung transcriptomes generated by RNA-seq were studied using contrasts across the challenged and nonchallenged birds, the two lines, and three time points post-infection, and by using Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGNCA). Genetic line and sex had a large impact on the lung transcriptome. When contrasting the challenged and nonchallenged birds, few differentially expressed genes (DEG) were identified within each line at 2, 6, and 10 days post infection (dpi), except for the more resistant Fayoumi line at 10 dpi, for which several pathways were activated and inhibited at this time. The interaction of challenge and line at 10 dpi significantly impacted 131 genes (False Discovery Rate (FDR) <0.05), one of which was PPIB. Many DEG were identified between the Fayoumi and Leghorns. The number of DEG between the two lines in the challenged birds decreased over time, but increased over time in the nonchallenged birds. The nonchallenged Fayoumis at 10 dpi showed enrichment of immune type cells when compared to 2 dpi, suggesting important immune related development at this age. These changes between 10 and 2 dpi were not identified in the challenged Fayoumis. The energy allocated to host defense may have interrupted normal lung development. WGCNA identified important modules and driver genes within those modules that were associated with traits of interest, several of which had no known associated function. The lines’ unique response to NDV offers insights into the potential means of their resistance and susceptibility. The lung transcriptome shows a unique response to lentogenic NDV compared to a previous study on the trachea of the same birds. It is important to analyze multiple tissues in order to best understand the chicken’s overall response to NDV challenge and improve strategies to combat this devastating disease.
Rocket-Augmented Two Stage Runway Based Space Access Architecture

A runway-based space access system concept based on two stages to orbit is further refined. Routine access to Space with large payloads is essential for Space infrastructure projects such as solar power stations. The aim is to develop a reference architecture to enable cost estimation for a large reusable fleet. Prior work established that a 25000 kg payload could be delivered to low earth orbit starting with takeoff from a runway using a vehicle with the parameters of today’s large airliners. Hydrogen-fueled high-bypass turbofans provide efficient subsonic climb while oxygen is liquefied and stored. The second stage is launched at transonic speed at 18 kilometers altitude, followed by aerodynamic flight with ramjet, SCRAMjet and then rocket propulsion to orbit. A new feature is a brief rocket burn to fill the transonic ramjet performance gap, followed by ramjet-powered supersonic acceleration and climb. Beyond 60 km, SCRAMJET acceleration reaches the von Karman limit of 100km at Mach 8, beyond which rocket propulsion takes the craft to orbit. A refined initial mass estimation process allows the design to close swiftly, showing that payload capacity can be increased in future iterations with the same carrier aircraft parameters.Copyright © 2017 by ASME
JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and the Financial Crisis of 2008

Following the financial crisis of 2008, major banks such as JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo attempted to rebuild stakeholder and shareholder trust in the American financial system....
Hybrid space vector pulse width modulation synthesis to minimize the common-mode voltage

The conventional space vector pulse width modulation (SVPWM) techniques for inverters generate high-frequency common-mode voltage (CMV), which induces high frequency and amplitude shaft voltage. This can exceed the breakdown voltage of the lubricant in the bearings and result in a significant bearing current flowing through the path to the ground. The bearing current causes premature bearing failure and poses electromagnetic interference (EMI) issues, especially in high switching frequency drive systems. In this paper, a hybrid space vector pulse width modulation synthesis (HSVPWMS) is proposed to lower the frequency and amplitude of the CMV. The control algorithm divides each sector in the space vector hexagonal into three segments based on the modulation index and the angle of the reference voltage vector. In each segment, the space vectors that produce minimal CMV are selected to synthesize the reference voltage vector. Both simulation and experimental results have validated the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Full-length amyloid precursor protein regulates lipoprotein metabolism and amyloid-β clearance in human astrocytes

Mounting evidence suggests that alterations in cholesterol homeostasis are involved in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis. Amyloid precursor protein (APP) or multiple fragments generated by proteolytic processing of APP have previously been implicated in the regulation of cholesterol metabolism. However, the physiological function of APP in regulating lipoprotein homeostasis in astrocytes, which are responsible for de novo cholesterol biosynthesis and regulation in the brain, remains unclear. To address this, here we used CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing to generate isogenic APP-knockout (KO) human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) and differentiated them into human astrocytes. We found that APP-KO astrocytes have reduced cholesterol and elevated levels of sterol regulatory element-binding protein (SREBP) target gene transcripts and proteins, which were both downstream consequences of reduced lipoprotein endocytosis. To elucidate which APP fragments regulate cholesterol homeostasis and to examine whether familial AD mutations in APP affect lipoprotein metabolism, we analyzed an isogenic allelic series harboring the APP Swedish and APP V717F variants. Only astrocytes homozygous for the APP Swedish (APPSwe/Swe) mutation, which had reduced full-length APP (FL APP) due to increased β-secretase cleavage, recapitulated the APP-KO phenotypes. Astrocytic internalization of β-amyloid (Aβ), another ligand for low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptors, was also impaired in APP-KO and APPSwe/Swe astrocytes. Finally, impairing cleavage of FL APP through β-secretase inhibition in APPSwe/Swe astrocytes reversed the LDL and Aβ endocytosis defects. In conclusion, FL APP is involved in the endocytosis of LDL receptor ligands and is required for proper cholesterol homeostasis and Aβ clearance in human astrocytes.
Legius Syndrome: Diagnosis and Pathology

Legius syndrome is an autosomal dominant disorder caused by heterozygous inactivating mutations in the SPRED1 gene. It is characterised by multiple cafe-au-lait macules (CALM) with or without axillary or inguinal freckling and mild macrocephaly. Learning disabilities, developmental delay and behaviour problems have been reported in Legius syndrome although less frequently than in NF1. The typical NF1-associated tumours are not evident in Legius syndrome.
Pursuing Medicina [Medicine]: Latina Physicians and Parental Messages on Gendered Career Choices

Prior research underscores that college-educated Latinas are hyper-segregated into highly feminized occupations and that Latino parents socialize their daughters to seek out these careers. Despite this trend, a small and growing number of Latinas are steadily entering prestigious non-traditional careers in medicine. Drawing on in-depth interviews with 20 Latina physicians of various generational backgrounds in California, I examine how Latina doctors explain the role parental messages played in their occupational trajectories. I document the fluid and often contradicting gendered expectations Latina physicians received from parents and identify three primary patterns in these messages, including: (a) fathers’ contradictory gendered expectations for their wives versus their U.S. born/raised daughters, (b) fathers and mothers’ differing messages about procuring financial and social independence from men, and (c) parental messages about sexuality. The messages that young Latinas receive vary and reflect tensions between gendered expectations for women in the immigrant parents’ home country and those available in the United States. The messages of support and resistance that Latina physicians receive from their parents regarding the pursuit of a career in medicine show how changing structural contexts—such as access and entry into prestigious non-traditional fields—rearranges gendered dynamics within Latino families.
The Use of Telemedicine Decreases Unnecessary Hand Trauma Transfers

Purpose: The Arkansas Hand Trauma Telemedicine Program (AHTTP) is a novel telemedicine system that was developed in 2014 within a rural state to address the growing need of access to hand trauma care with one trauma center that cares for mangling hand injuries. The purpose is to compare transfers for hand injuries prior to and after the implementation of this system. Methods: The hospital institutional database was queried for all transfers to a level 1 medical center in the state from 2012 to 2015, allowing the comparison of data prior to and after the institution of the AHTTP. Patient disposition from the emergency department was categorized to evaluate the impact of AHTTP. Distance, mode of transport, and transport cost were assessed. Findings: There were 202 transfers for the treatment of isolated hand trauma (92 from 2012 to 2013 and 110 from 2014 to 2015). Prior to the institution of AHTTP, transfer patients were admitted 47.8% of the time compared with 68.2% of the time after the development of the program (P = .02). The approximate cost of transport for patients who were discharged home directly from the emergency department was 38.5% (US $47,233) of the total costs for the 2012-2013 period and was 21.4% (US $34,017) of the costs for the 2014-2015 period (P < .0001). Conclusions: There was a statistically significant decrease in the number of unnecessary transfers and transportation costs after the telemedicine program was started. The implementation of AHTTP in a rural state reduced health care costs and improved the efficiency of hand specialty care.
Donantes de esperma en los Estados Unidos de América y las relaciones con su descendencia

New forms of family are emerging in an era of rapid change in reproductive technologies, particularly technologies that employ donor gametes. Donor anonymity has become more problematic as more countries require all donors to be identity release. The role of the sperm bank donor –whether anonymous or identity release– who has contact with his offspring remains unexplored in sociological research. In the United States donors are asked to choose the kind of donor they want to be: anonymous or identity release. But little is known about how donors make this decision, including how they think about their donation and their imagined offspring, or whether they change their minds. Given how identity matters to parents who use donor sperm and to children who are often eager to know more about their origins, this topic deserves closer attention. Data from several data sources are used to trace the evolving narrative about donors and their genetic offspring. United States donor profile accounts from 2003 and 2017 are used to explore whether donor justifications about anonymity/identity release have changed. In-depth interviews conducted between 2013-2015 with donors who switch their donor status offer a unique opportunity to understand both their rationales and the consequences of their shift for parents and their offspring. This approach makes it possible to understand the newly emerging role of donors in nuclear families.
Manipulation of Aphid Behavior by a Persistent Plant Virus.

Plants are frequently infected with cytoplasmic RNA viruses that persist for many generations through nearly 100% vertical transmission without producing any symptoms. Movement between plant cells and horizontal transmission have not been observed with these viruses; instead, they are distributed to all host cells through host cell division. Jalapeno peppers (Capsicum annuum) are all infected with Pepper cryptic virus 1 (PCV-1; family Partitiviridae). We compared the effect of odor cues from PCV-1-infected (J+) and virus-free (J-) jalapeno peppers on the aphid Myzus persicae, a common vector of acute plant viruses. Pairwise preference experiments showed a stark contrast to insect-plant interactions in acute virus infections-that is, the virus-infected plants deterred aphids. The acute plant virus Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) manipulates its host's volatile emissions to attract aphid vectors and facilitate its transmission. We inoculated J+ and J- plants with CMV. Volatiles of J+ and J- CMV-infected plants were more attractive to aphids than those of J+ and J- mock-inoculated plants. However, in pairwise preference experiments with J+ CMV- and J- CMV-infected plants, aphids preferred the J- CMV volatile blend. Aphid reproduction on J+ and J- plants was measured as an indicator of the effect of PCV-1 on host quality for aphids. Aphid reproduction on J+ plants was more than 2-fold lower than that on J- plants.IMPORTANCE This study demonstrates that a persistent plant virus can manipulate aphid behavior. This manipulation is in stark contrast to previously described effects of acute viruses on their hosts that facilitate their transmission. This study demonstrates a positive relationship between Pepper cryptic virus 1 and jalapeno pepper (Capsicum annuum) plants wherein the virus protects the plants from the vector of acute viruses and reduces aphid herbivory. This work reveals an important implication of persistent plant viruses for pest and pathogen management in agriculture.
Metastatic Brain Tumors

Abstract Metastatic brain tumors (MBTs) account for the majority of intraaxial brain tumors in adult patients. It is estimated that up to 30% of patients diagnosed with a primary malignancy will develop central nervous system metastatic lesions during their disease course. The annual incidence of MBT continues to increase due to the advances in modern oncologic treatments that have improved survival in patients with primary neoplastic disease. The current treatment standards for MBT include surgical resection, stereotactic radiosurgery, whole brain radiation, or a combination of these. There is considerable variability among treating physicians about choosing an appropriate treatment regimen. This chapter will review the presentation and features of common MBT and review the current evidence for proper treatment options.
RACE INDEPENDENTLY PREDICTS UNSUCCESSFUL HEALING OF OSTEOCHONDRITIS DISSECANS IN THE PEDIATRIC KNEE

BACKGROUND:Previous studies have reported disparities in medical and surgical care along the lines of race and socioeconomic status. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of these fac...
Enzymatic synthesis of supported CdS quantum dot/reduced graphene oxide photocatalysts

Photocatalysis is an attractive, sustainable, and potentially low-cost route to capture solar energy as fuel. However, current photocatalytic materials synthesis routes are not easily scaled-up to the magnitude required to impact our energy consumption due to both economic and environmental concerns. While the elements utilized are often earth abundant, typical synthetic routes utilize organic solvents at elevated temperatures with relatively expensive precursors. Herein, we demonstrate the fully biomineralized synthesis of a quantum confined CdS/reduced graphene oxide (CdS/rGO) photocatalyst catalyzed by the single enzyme cystathionine γ-lyase (CSE). The synthesis is performed at pH 9 in a buffered aqueous solution, under ambient conditions, and utilizes the low-cost precursors Cd acetate, L-cysteine, graphene oxide, and a poly-L-lysine linker molecule. CSE actively decomposes L-cysteine to generate reactive HS− in aqueous solution at pH 9. Careful selection and control of the synthesis conditions enable both reduction of graphene oxide to rGO, and control over the mean CdS nanocrystal size. The CdS is conjugated to the rGO via a poly-L-lysine crosslinker molecule introduced during rGO formation. The completed CdS/rGO photocatalyst is capable of producing H2, without the aid of a noble metal co-catalyst, at a rate of 550 μmol h−1 g−1 for an optimized CdS/rGO ratio. This rate is double that measured for unsupported CdS and is comparable to CdS/rGO photocatalysts produced using more typical chemical synthesis routes. Single enzyme biomineralization by CSE can produce a range of metal chalcogenides without altering the enzyme or benign approach, making this an easily adaptable procedure for the sustainable production of a wide variety of important photocatalyst systems.
Factors Contributing to Older Adults Living Alone and Thereby at Risk of Poor Health and Adverse Health Outcomes

Introduction: Extensive research demonstrates that older adults living alone tend to be less healthy, have poorer health outcomes and are at greater risk of dying. While many investigators have explored various aspects of aging, there has been limited work assessing factors that increase the chances of an older adult to live alone. This study examines the association between demographic characteristics; current health status; and social, cultural, and environmental factors among older adults (65 years of age and older) and the likelihood they will live alone Methods: Secondary analyses is conducted of survey data from the Americans' Changing Lives (ACL) cohort study initiated in 1986 (Wave 1) and continued through 2012, with four follow-up surveys conducted in 1989 (Wave II), 1994 (Wave III), 2001/02 (Wave IV), and 2011/12 (Wave V). All ACL participants 65 years and older at time of survey (Wave I – V) are included for this study (N=7,020). An analysis of variance (ANOVA) that included demographics, health status, and social support factors is employed to determine the relationship of these variables to an older adult reporting living alone. Additionally, the Cox proportional hazards model is used for survival analysis to predict the expected age at onset of living alone. Results: Four critical factors reduce the probability of an older adult living alone: 1) marital status (married), 2) gender (male), 3) presence of at least one living child, and 4) willingness to spend time in the garden (physical activity). An older female adult who is currently single and without a living child is most likely to report living alone (p<.001). Conclusions: Older adults living alone are at higher risk of poor health and health outcomes. The influx of baby boomers whose life expectancy is longer than the past, will cause a dramatic increase in senior adults living alone. This research suggests a guideline to public health professionals for identifying those at risk of being negatively impacted by living alone so that they can intervene and provide alternative living arrangements and support services, as necessary. Keywords: living alone, older adults, health outcomes
Through the Looking Glass: Study of Transparency in Reddit's Moderation Practices

Transparency in moderation practices is crucial to the success of an online community. To meet the growing demands of transparency and accountability, several academics came together and proposed the Santa Clara Principles on Transparency and Accountability in Content Moderation (SCP). In 2018, Reddit, home to uniquely moderated communities called subreddits, announced in its transparency report that the company is aligning its content moderation practices with the SCP. But do the moderators of subreddit communities follow these guidelines too? In this paper, we answer this question by employing a mixed-methods approach on public moderation logs collected from 204 subreddits over a period of five months, containing more than 0.5M instances of removals by both human moderators and AutoModerator. Our results reveal a lack of transparency in moderation practices. We find that while subreddits often rely on AutoModerator to sanction newcomer posts based on karma requirements and moderate uncivil content based on automated keyword lists, users are neither notified of these sanctions, nor are these practices formally stated in any of the subreddits' rules. We interviewed 13 Reddit moderators to hear their views on different facets of transparency and to determine why a lack of transparency is a widespread phenomenon. The interviews reveal that moderators' stance on transparency is divided, there is a lack of standardized process to appeal against content removal and Reddit's app and platform design often impede moderators' ability to be transparent in their moderation practices.
Self-driven power management system for triboelectric nanogenerators

Abstract This paper presents a fully functional power management system for triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) with the TENG as the only power source. TENG was developed for the objective to provide power to electronic devices and sensors without the need for a battery (the so-called self-powered systems). A unique feature of the TENG's electrical output is high pulsed voltage but low current capability, making TENGs unsuitable for direct use as a power source. To provide continuous and steady electrical voltage for conventional electronics, a power management system (PMS) is required. Existing PMS′ based on power electronic converters do not provide a complete solution due to the use of additional power sources for the logic circuit and switch drivers. The PMS to be reported in this work provides a complete solution for a self-powered system with the TENG as the only power source. This goal is accomplished with a novel approach of employing discrete semiconductor devices, including a silicon-controlled rectifier (SCR) and zener diodes, for controlling the power flow paths, without using any integrated circuit. The effectiveness of the newly developed PMS has been experimentally validated with a prototype and a contact and separation mode TENG device.
Adaptive Efficient Coding: A Variational Auto-encoder Approach

We study a model of neural coding with the structure of a variational auto-encoder. The model posits that the encoding of individual stimulus values is optimally adjusted for a finite training sample of stimuli retained in memory. We demonstrate that this model can rationalize existing experimental evidence on both perceptual discrimination thresholds and neural tuning curve widths in multiple sensory domains. Finally, since our model implies that encoding is optimized for a sample from the environment, it also provides predictions about the adaptation of neural coding as the environmental frequency distribution changes.
Global Ophthalmology Insights for a Global Pandemic

The solutions we develop for this pandemic have to ensure that while eye care is appropriately scaled back, it is evenly and equitably available Utilize the Maximum Potential of Personnel In many low- and middle-income countries the scarcity of trained eye care professionals is acute The Aravind Eye Care System in India is renowned for expanding the scope of practice for its mid-level ophthalmic personnel, thereby supplying quality care to a greater number of people 1 Fellowship-trained specialists in developing regions continue to provide comprehensive ophthalmic services to their patients in addition to complex subspecialty interventions [ ]the threshold for treating—or even seeing—a patient has changed abruptly
A Timely Proposal to Eliminate the Student Loan Interest Deduction

Although increasing access to higher education has been a priority of the federal government for more than half a century, the government has largely shifted the way in which it offers assistance over the last two decades from grants to loans. In the aftermath of the dot-com and mortgage debt bubbles, skyrocketing student loan debt levels and default rates are creating public anxiety over the possibility of a student loan debt bubble. This article examines the tax deduction for student loan interest against the backdrop of these recent developments. The deduction of interest generated on student loan indebtedness was eliminated in 1986 and revived almost a decade later through Section 221 of the Internal Revenue Code. Objective analysis of the provision suggests that it is a paradigm of inefficiency in its failure to increase access to education or meaningfully assist borrowers with the management of their student loan debt. Worse still, the deduction seems to function most efficiently as the capitalization of a cultural expectation. Interest generated by student loan debt, along with mortgage debt, are presently the only types of personal interest receiving favored treatment through the tax code. In the aftermath of the dot-com and mortgage debt bubbles, and facing the possibility of a student loan debt bubble, this article examines mistakes that have arguably been made by and through the mortgage interest deduction and asserts that the role of Section 221 in underscoring norms needs to be examined and adjusted. National policy that generally encourages higher education must be refined and narrowed to instead encourage responsible borrowing for higher education and repayment of any underlying indebtedness. As it may be unavoidable that social and cultural expectations will be capitalized through the tax code, a realistic way to capitalize the correct expectation is proposed: the repeal of the student loan interest deduction in favor of an alternative provision that works cohesively with the income-based repayment plans implemented in 2007 and 2011.
Startups in Los Angeles

This study examines the characteristics of startups in Los Angeles. In particular, we look at startup’s general business area, operating status, funding history, and key corporate actions. We also review these characteristics within the national and state context. Recommendations to entrepreneurs and investors are made based on our findings.
Assessment of Throwing Patterns in Young Adults Diagnosed with Low-Expressive Language Autism and Severe Communication Disorder

There are a significant number of reports documenting movement differences and disorders in individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). Observations of throwing patterns of young adults with low-expressive language ASD (LEL-ASD) have not been previously reported and may offer a description of how aberrant movement patterns manifest among this older population. Throwing patterns over four distances (1.52, 3.04, 4.56, and 6.08m) were compared between young adults with LEL-ASD (n=7, 18.9 ± 1.8 years) and a matched control group (n=7, 19.6 ± 0.5 years). Eleven reflective markers were adhered to specific anatomical locations on participants and a six-camera motion analysis system (120 Hz) tracked marker locations resulting in joint kinematics (trunk rotation, elbow extension velocity, arm slot angle at release) and ball metrics (velocity, trajectory). Three-dimensional stick-figure representations were qualitatively observed by three independent raters to score each throw for stepping and trunk action based on a previously reported throwing rubric. Across all distances, the control group threw with 100% accuracy compared to 67.7% for the LEL-ASD group. There were significant between-group differences for trunk rotation, arm slot angle, and ball velocity at the point of release as throwing distance increased. Kinematic analysis revealed a largely planar throwing motion that did not adjust for the LEL-ASD group. Young adults diagnosed with LEL-ASD displayed altered overhand throwing patterns as compared to control participants. Kinematic results underscored the difference in throwing patterns and revealed a lack of accommodation to alter the throwing pattern as a function of target distance. These data reveal differences of movement patterns between LEL-ASD and typically developing participants, specifically actions requiring the synchronized coordination of upper and lower extremities.
Moving Target Detection for Distributed MIMO Radar under Clutter Model Mismatch

In this paper, we consider the problem of moving target detection (MTD) in distributed multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) radar in non-homogeneous clutter environments. Due to the non-homogeneous environment and the azimuth-selective back-scattering of the background, the clutter varies from one cell to another and from one transmit-receive pair to another. We consider two types of clutter models. The first model assumes Gaussian clutter distribution in the Doppler space. The mean and variance are different from different transmit-receive paths. The second model characterizes the clutter as the superposition of multiple discrete scatterers of unknown powers and Doppler frequencies. To mitigate the effect of mismatch in the first model, we represent the clutter as a weighted linear combination of multiple basis vectors and use maximum likelihood techniques to estimate the optimum weight values. For the latter case, we address off-grid discrete clutter mismatch via jointly estimating the discrete clutter powers and Doppler frequencies. For both cases, moving target detection is performed using primary data (cell under test), thus avoiding the use of secondary data and associated stationarity issues. The performance of the proposed moving target detectors is validated using simulation examples.
Monitoring of Irrigated Lesion Formation with Single Fiber Based Multispectral System using Machine Learning

We developed a combined multispectral single fiber-radiofrequency ablation (RFA) catheter to evaluate irrigated lesion progression on ex vivo swine models.
Compliance to FDA's elimination of free tobacco product sampling at vape shops.

Abstract Objective The 2016 FDA’s “Deeming Rule” prohibited free samples of vaping products. The purpose of this study was to investigate compliance with or adaptation to this newly established FDA policy. Methods Vape shops were recruited in Southern California between November 2017 and December 2018. Data collectors interviewed 121 vape shop employees who responded to questions pertaining to the sampling protocol at their shop. Nicotine levels used for sampling were also assessed for consideration of future policy adoption. Results Only 7.4% of shops were non-compliant to federal sampling rules. The remaining shops either: 1) charged a fee for samples (58.7%); 2) deducted the fee from the final purchase price (5.8%); or 3) eliminated product sampling (28.1%). Of the shops that charged for sampling (including membership fees), 94.4% initiated a minimal cost protocol (≤$1) for sampling. Half (50.0%) the shops that allowed sampling offered nicotine-containing samples. Conclusion There was high compliance (92.6%) to the change in policy among vape shops. However, minimal modification of sampling protocol was observed due in part to the lack of specificity on parameters of compliance, which lessened the potential impact of the policy. To further protect consumers, policymakers must develop unambiguous and comprehensive policies to achieve intended results and true compliance. At minimum, future tobacco product sampling policies should consider standardized pricing; alternatively, total elimination of tobacco product sampling is suggested.
Evolutionary History of B1 Retroposons in the Genus Mus

Short interspersed DNA elements (SINEs) amplify by retroposition either by (i) successive waves of amplification from one or a few evolving master genes or by (ii) the generation of new master genes that coexist with their progenitors. Individual, highly conserved, elements of the B1 SINE family were identified from the GenBank nucleotide database using various B1 subfamily consensus query sequences to determine their integration times into the mouse genome. A comparison of orthologous loci in various species of the genus Mus demonstrated that four subfamilies of B1 elements have been amplifying within the last 1–3 million years. Therefore, B1 sequences are generated by coexisting source genes. Additionally, three B1 subfamilies have been concurrently propagated during subspecies divergence and strain formation in Mus, indicating very recent activity of this retroposon family. The patterns of intra- and interspecies variations of orthologous loci demonstrate the usefulness of B1 integrations as a phylogenetic tool. A single inconsistency in the phylogenetic trends was depicted by the presence of a B1 insert in an orthologous locus exclusively in M. musculus and M. pahari. However, DNA sequence analysis revealed that these were independent integrations at the same genomic site. One highly conserved B1 element that integrated at least 4–6 million years ago suggests the possibility of occasional function for B1 integrations.
Role of Comorbid Depression and Co-occurring Depressive Symptoms in Outcomes for Anxiety-Disordered Youth Treated with Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

This study examined the role of comorbid depressive disorders (major depressive disorder or dysthymic disorder) and co-occurring depressive symptoms in treatment outcome and maintenance for youth (N = 72, aged 7–14) treated with cognitive-behavioral therapy for a principal anxiety disorder (generalized anxiety disorder, separation anxiety disorder, or social phobia). Hierarchical linear modeling examined treatment outcome and maintenance in terms of severity of the principal anxiety disorder. Results indicated that higher levels of child-reported depressive symptoms predicted less favorable treatment outcome. Higher levels of mother-reported depressive symptoms predicted less favorable treatment maintenance at a 1-year follow-up. Results suggest that co-occurring depressive symptoms play a role in effective treatment for anxiety-disordered youth and support the merits of treatment adaptations for these youth.
Ultra-thin, evaporation-resistent PDMS devices for absolute quantification of DNA using digital PCR

We present an array-based nanoliter digital PCR (dPCR) platform. The ultra-thin microfluidic device can accommodate high temperatures for extended periods, while minimizing evaporation. The device utilizes a very simple fabrication scheme, and can achieve a limit of detection of 100 attomolar of synthetic target. dPCR presents a feasible way to quantify rare targets, especially in high background. We demonstrate proof-of-concept use of this device to identify methylation of synthetic DNA in high background, a potential biomarker for many diseases. We believe that this simple and cost-effective device will encourage wider adoption of dPCR.
Trials of endovascular therapies or collaterals

Several landmark clinical trials of endovascular therapy for acute ischemic stroke have recently jolted the concerted multidisciplinary efforts to develop effective revascularization strategies. Further consideration of these four endovascular stroke trials published in the last year suggests a more fundamental question: are these trials of specific treatments or have the results simply reflected the importance of underlying pathophysiology? Data from IMS III, MR RESCUE, SWIFT and TREVO2 consistently demonstrate the dramatic impact of collateral perfusion in acute ischemic stroke. Such collateral, or parallel, trials of the underlying pathophysiology in stroke reveal that diagnosis or selection of optimal candidates may be paramount to the specific drug or device therapy. Future trials of endovascular therapies may harness the influential role of collaterals as critical selection criteria for intervention, with triage based on imaging rather than time alone. Treating the optimal patient may be more important than chasing an elusive magical therapy.
Hormone-dependent Phosphorylation of Ribosomal and Plasma Membrane Proteins in Mouse Mammary Gland in Vitro

Abstract Mouse mammary cells in organ culture incorporate 32Pi into the serine and threonine residues of 19 specific plasma membrane proteins and 8 specific ribosomal proteins as resolved by polyacrylamide electrophoresis. These proteins are also phosphorylated in cell-free reactions by tightly bound protein kinases which are endogenous to these organelles and not activated by cyclic adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate (cyclic AMP), and by a purified cytosol protein kinase which is activated by cyclic AMP. The radioactivity patterns of phosphorylated plasma membrane proteins are nearly identical after reactions with the endogenous or cytosol protein kinases or after phosphorylation in intact cultured cells. Certain differences in the radioactivity profiles of 32P-labeled ribosomal proteins are observed after phosphorylation by the ribosomal or cytosol protein kinases as compared to the 32P-proteins of ribosomes labeled in cultured cells. Insulin stimulates the rate of phosphorylation of specific plasma membrane and ribosomal proteins in undifferentiated mammary stem cells with maximal stimulation observed after 16 hours of culture. Prolactin synergizes with insulin to stimulate the rate of phosphorylation of all 19 membrane proteins and four ribosomal proteins in cells which differentiate in vitro after treatment with insulin and hydrocortisone. Stimulation of phosphorylation of these specific proteins occurs subsequent to the rapid induction by prolactin of the catalytic and regulatory subunits of the cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase of the cytosol, as previously described. The results suggest that the phosphorylation of multiple specific proteins in these organelles represents the propagation of the initial prolactin stimulus at the cell surface to various functionally distinct compartments of the mammary epithelial cell.