cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An Analytical Model for the Basic Design Calculations of Journal Bearings

This paper presents an analytical model for the basic design calculations of plain journal bearings. The model yields reasonable accuracy as compared with published numerical solutions under the same conditions. The principles and procedures of the formulations are presented along with accuracy analyses. DOI: 10.1115/1.4000941
Robust search algorithms for test pattern generation

In recent years several highly effective algorithms have been proposed for Automatic Test Pattern Generation (ATPG). Nevertheless, most of these algorithms too often rely on different types of heuristics to achieve good empirical performance. Moreover there has not been significant research work on developing algorithms that are robust, in the sense that they can handle most faults with little heuristic guidance. In this paper we describe an algorithm for ATPG that is robust and still very efficient. In contrast with existing algorithms for ATPG, the proposed algorithm reduces heuristic knowledge to a minimum and relies on an optimized search algorithm for effectively pruning the search space. Even though the experimental results are obtained using an ATPG tool built on top of a Propositional Satisfiability (SAT) algorithm, the same concepts can be integrated on application-specific algorithms.
Data ingestion and evidence marshalling in Jigsaw VAST 2010 Mini Challenge 1 award: Good support for data ingest

This article describes the sense-making process we applied to solve the VAST 2010 Mini Challenge 1 using the visual analytics system Jigsaw. We focus on Jigsaw's data ingest and evidence marshalling features and discuss how they are beneficial for a holistic sense-making experience.
Understanding surfaces and buried interfaces of polymer materials at the molecular level using sum frequency generation vibrational spectroscopy

This paper reviews recent progress in the studies on polymer surfaces/interfaces using sum frequency generation (SFG) vibrational spectroscopy. SFG theory, technique, and some experimental details have been presented. The review is focused on the SFG studies on buried interfaces involving polymer materials, such as polymer-water interfaces and polymer-polymer interfaces. Molecular interactions between polymer surfaces and adhesion promoters as well as biological molecules such as proteins and peptides have also been elucidated using SFG. This review demonstrates that SFG is a powerful technique to characterize molecular level structural information of complicated polymer surfaces and interfaces in situ.  2006 Society of Chemical Industry
Outcomes after operative fixation of complete articular patellar fractures: assessment of functional impairment.

Background: Patellar fractures are debilitating injuries that compromise the knee extensor mechanism and are frequently associated with poor outcomes. The purpose of this study was to quantify the functional outcomes of operative treatment of patellar fractures. Methods: Functional outcome data on thirty patients with an isolated unilateral patellar fracture were prospectively obtained at three, six, and twelve months postoperatively. Results: All fractures healed. There were two complications (7%) related to the surgery (wound dehiscence and refracture), and eleven patients (37%) underwent removal of symptomatic implants. The tibial plateau-patella angle demonstrated patella baja in seventeen (57%) of the patients. Anterior knee pain during activities of daily living was experienced by twenty-four (80%) of the patients. Clinical improvement occurred over the first six months. However, functional impairment persisted at twelve months, with objective testing demonstrating that the knee extensor mechanism on the injured side had deficits in strength (−41%), power (−47%), and endurance (−34%) as compared with the uninjured side. Conclusions: Despite advances in surgical protocols and acceptable radiographic outcomes, functional impairment remains common after treatment of patellar fractures. Rehabilitation strategies following surgical stabilization of these injuries will be a fruitful area for future clinical research. Level of Evidence: Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Changes in plant species richness following reduced fire frequency and drought in one of the most species- rich savannas in North America

Questions: How has plant species richness changed over two decades in one of the most species-rich savannas in North America? Is an altered disturbance regime, environmental stress, or both, driving these changes? In what ways can observations in this savanna inform management of other species-rich plant communities? Location: Longleaf pine savannas in southeast North Carolina, USA. Methods: In 2011–2013, we re-surveyed permanent plots established in the 1980s and 1990s in a longleaf pine (Pinus palustris) savanna in North Carolina to quantify changes in species richness at multiple spatial scales following 15 yr of reduced fire frequency plus periodic drought. For comparison, we re-sampled other longleaf pine savannas in the region that had not experienced reduced fire frequency, but had experienced similar drought. In addition, we identified which types of species were lost and gained, and summarized changes in species frequency by growth form, plant height, and habitat affinity. Results: We detected substantial declines in small-scale species richness and species frequency from the 1980s to 2011, representing a loss of 33% to 41% of the flora, depending on the spatial scale. Small herbaceous species had become particularly scarce. Additional re-sampling in the wetter years of 2012 and 2013 after consecutive years of fire revealed that species richness had increased slightly from 2011, but was still considerably lower than that in the 1980s. Other savannas did not exhibit such dramatic declines in species richness, suggesting reduced fire frequency in addition to drought contributed to species loss in Big Island Savanna over time. Conclusions: Our work suggests that nearly annual fire is necessary for the maintenance of high plant species richness in mesic longleaf pine savannas, and even a modest reduction in fire frequency can have dramatic negative impacts. This study also suggests that drought is an important factor structuring grassland ecosystems in the southeastern US, despite relatively high regional precipitation. We believethesefindingscan be generalizedtoother species-rich grasslands that are sensitive to changes in disturbance regimes and may require frequent disturbance to maintain plant species richness.
A map-based system using speech and 3D gestures for pervasive computing

We describe an augmentation of Quickset, a multimodal voice/pen system that allows users to create and control map-based, collaborative, interactive simulations. In this paper, we report on our extension of the graphical pen input mode front stylus/mouse to 3D hand movements. To do this, the map is projected onto a virtual plane in space, specified by the operator before the start of the interactive session. We then use our geometric model to compute the intersection of hand movements with the virtual plane, translating these into map coordinates on the appropriate system. The goal of this research is the creation of a body-centered, multimodal architecture employing both speech and 3D hand gestures, which seamlessly, and unobtrusively supports distributed interaction. The augmented system, built on top of an existing architecture, also provides an improved visualization, management and awareness of a shared understanding. Potential applications of this work include telemedicine, battlefield management and any kind of collaborative decision-making during which users may wish to be mobile.
Reforming Long-Term Care in the United States: Findings From a National Survey of Specialists

Purpose: Theories of the policy process recognize that policy proposals are typically generated, debated, redrafted, and accepted for consideration through the gradual accumulation of knowledge within communities of specialists. Thus, to inform long-term care (LTC) reform efforts, we conducted a Web-based survey of 1,147 LTC specialists nationwide. Design and Methods: Survey respondents included consumer advocates, provider representatives, public officials, policy experts, and others with experience in LTC. Administration took place between September 2007 and March 2008 and addressed prevailing challenges and options for reform. Results: Although differences could be discerned, constituency group views converged in several areas. There was general agreement that LTC financing needed to be socialized more and that impediments to organizational change needed to be overcome. Respondents also felt that LTC needed to be rebalanced toward home- and community-based settings, though few supported doing so by limiting nursing home (NH) bed supply. Although virtually all felt that the federal government was doing a poor job regulating LTC providers, most believed that the approaches used to oversee NHs should also be applied to assisted living. Payment incentives were highlighted as the most effective strategy for improving quality even though it suffers from the same informational deficits com promising consumer reporting. Implications: By giving voice to those who know LTC very well, and identifying areas of agreement and disagreement, this study should prove useful in promoting LTC reform where it might otherwise remain politically intransigent.
Enlightened Management: An Analysis of Buddhist Precepts Applied to Managerial Activity

This paper explores the relationship between Buddhist beliefs and the practice of management. In particular, the paper discusses the significance of the Four Noble Truths, the Eightfold Path, the Five Precepts, the concept of no-self, and the Dharma, or teachings of the Buddha as expressed in important sayings. The paper shows the impact these Buddhist concepts have on leadership, team building, personal development, conflict, and people management. The paper suggests that Buddhist teachings are important to an understanding of management as practiced in Buddhist countries and that such practices have more universal application and appeal.
Embracing Affirmative Jury Selection for the Racial Fairness in the Jury System

The fact that an all-white jury that convicts a black defendant or acquits a white defendant against overwhelming evidence of his guilt is deeply disturbing. The fact that a jury is all white has the powerful effect of racializing the jury proceeding. In reality however, a black defendant in most jurisdictions is often confronted by white police officers, indicted by an all-white grand jury, prosecuted by a team of all-white district attorneys, convicted by a predominantly, if not all, white jury, sentenced by a white judge, denied appeals by white state appellate court jurists and white federal judges, and executed by a team of white prison officials. Such criminal proceedings and jury trials carry a long-lasting impression of racial inequality in the criminal justice system. Race, then, becomes a critical emblem by which members of a minority race carefully assess trial fairness, verdict legitimacy, and the quality and integrity of the criminal justice system.
A Man's Right to Choose (an Abortion?)

This article attempts to argue - contra Danforth and Casey - for a man's right to participate in the abortion decision and provides some legal mechanisms to implement such a right.
Production and Characterization of Deposited Mono-Sized Clusters

Using high energy rare gas ion sputtering of metal targets, we are able to produce nanoamps of mass selected transition metal clusters. Mono-sized cluster ions are deposited at low kinetic energy upon substrates, e.g. silica or carbon, and are then characterized using UV and x-ray photoemission. In this paper we will discuss photoemission measurements of the 4f7/2 core level energies of Au (1–5,7 atom samples) clusters deposited on silica. From such studies we are beginning to understand how electronic structure, cluster stability and mobility depend on (deposited) cluster size, surface coverage, and substrate temperature.
The Fourth Gospel and the Church

THERE are two important chronological questions in the history of the Fourth Gospel: the date of its composition and the date of its acceptance by the church. The solution of the first depends in large measure on the question of John's use of the synoptic gospels. Did he use them at all? And, if he did, in what way? There can be no doubt that if he knew them he had little interest in their historical value. But does this mean that he had more authentic historical data? Or that he was inter-
Developmental cascade model for adolescent substance use from infancy to late adolescence

A developmental cascade model for adolescent substance use beginning in infancy was examined in a sample of children with alcoholic and nonalcoholic parents. The model examined the role of parents' alcohol diagnoses, depression and antisocial behavior in a cascading process of risk via 3 major hypothesized pathways: first, via parental warmth/sensitivity from toddler to kindergarten age predicting higher parental monitoring in middle childhood through early adolescence, serving as a protective pathway for adolescent substance use; second, via child low self-regulation in the preschool years to a continuing externalizing behavior problem pathway leading to underage drinking and higher engagement with substance using peers; and third, via higher social competence from kindergarten age through middle childhood being protective against engagement with delinquent and substance using peers, and leading to lower adolescent substance use. The sample consisted of 227 intact families recruited from the community at 12 months of child age. Results were supportive for the first 2 pathways to substance use in late adolescence. Among proximal, early adolescent risks, engagement with delinquent peers and parent's acceptance of underage drinking were significant predictors of late adolescent alcohol and marijuana use. The results highlight the important protective roles of maternal warmth/sensitivity in early childhood to kindergarten age, parental monitoring in middle childhood, and of child self-regulation in the preschool period as reducing risk for externalizing behavior problems, underage drinking, and engagement with delinquent peers in early adolescence. Specific implications for the creation of developmentally fine-tuned preventive intervention are discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record
The International Movement to Protect Literary and Artistic Property

The 1886 Berne Convention for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works sought to harmonize different conceptions of the artist’s rights in his intellectual creation in order to universalize the protection of literary and artistic works. The protection of art as property not only asserted a new relation between art and law, but also engaged another global transformation under way: the coproduction of national and international law. The Berne Convention relied on national legislative sovereignties to fulfill its goal of international protection for an artist’s property. In so doing, the Berne Convention negotiated a new international public domain, in conjunction with which the rights of individual artists would find an internationally protected space.
Temperature Tolerance Determinations for Daphnia

First immature instar and adult egg-carrying Daphnia pulex Leydig acclimated from 5 to 30°C, at 5°C intervals, and Daphnia magna Straus acclimated from 5 to 25°C, at 5°C intervals, were instantaneously immersed at 30 and 35°C and observed for mortality. Observations were made at 0.5, 1, 2, 4, and 8 h after immersion and every 8 h thereafter until 95 percent mortality occurred. Twenty organisms were used in each test, and the tests were carried out in temperature-controlled water baths. Filtered lake water was used for culture and testing. Adult egg-bearing D. pulex and D. magna were more sensitive to the upper lethal temperatures than their respective immature forms, which indicates that mature egg-carrying forms should be used for determining temperature tolerance levels. The results also indicated that organisms held in laboratory cultures for extended time periods at constant temperatures have decreased upper temperature tolerance limits, in comparison with organisms adapted to the fluctuating temperatures of natural environments, which have been laboratory acclimated for shorter time periods. Shortcomings in the methodologies of previous thermal tolerance studies on zooplankton are discussed, and recommendations are made as to how these methods can be improved.
INFLUENCE OF LOW VERSUS HIGH DOSE ON THE ASSOCIATION OF LOOP DIURECTIC AND MORTALITY IN PATIENTS WITH HEART FAILURE: INSIGHTS FROM THE UNITE-HF REGISTRY

Background: Loop diuretics are associated with a dose-related increase in mortality in patients (Pts) with heart failure (HF) but less is known about the pattern of this relationship. Methods: The relationship between low and high doses of loop diuretic and mortality was investigated in the UNITE-
The Application of the Cold Atmospheric Plasma-Activated Solutions in Cancer Treatment

Background Over the past five years, the cold atmospheric plasma-activated solutions (PAS) have shown their promissing application in cancer treatment. Similar as the common direct cold plasma treatment, PAS shows a selective anti-cancer capacity in vitro and in vivo. However, different from the direct cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) treatment, PAS can be stored for a long time and can be used without dependence on a CAP device. The research on PAS is gradually becoming a hot topic in plasma medicine. Objectives In this review, we gave a concise but comprehensive summary on key topics about PAS including the development, current status, as well as the main conclusions about the anti-cancer mechanism achieved in past years. The approaches to make strong and stable PAS are also summarized.
Learning abstract visual concepts via probabilistic program induction in a Language of Thought

The ability to learn abstract concepts is a powerful component of human cognition. It has been argued that variable binding is the key element enabling this ability, but the computational aspects of variable binding remain poorly understood. Here, we address this shortcoming by formalizing the Hierarchical Language of Thought (HLOT) model of rule learning. Given a set of data items, the model uses Bayesian inference to infer a probability distribution over stochastic programs that implement variable binding. Because the model makes use of symbolic variables as well as Bayesian inference and programs with stochastic primitives, it combines many of the advantages of both symbolic and statistical approaches to cognitive modeling. To evaluate the model, we conducted an experiment in which human subjects viewed training items and then judged which test items belong to the same concept as the training items. We found that the HLOT model provides a close match to human generalization patterns, significantly outperforming two variants of the Generalized Context Model, one variant based on string similarity and the other based on visual similarity using features from a deep convolutional neural network. Additional results suggest that variable binding happens automatically, implying that binding operations do not add complexity to peoples' hypothesized rules. Overall, this work demonstrates that a cognitive model combining symbolic variables with Bayesian inference and stochastic program primitives provides a new perspective for understanding people's patterns of generalization.
HoTResDB: host transcriptional response database for viral hemorrhagic fevers

Summary High-throughput screening of the host transcriptional response to various viral infections provides a wealth of data, but utilization of microarray and next generation sequencing (NGS) data for analysis can be difficult. The Host Transcriptional Response DataBase (HoTResDB), allows visitors to access already processed microarray and NGS data from non-human primate models of viral hemorrhagic fever to better understand the host transcriptional response. Availability HoTResDB is freely available at http://hotresdb.bu.edu.
Evaluating the Nasal Cytology in Acute Rhinosinusitis

Rhinitis has been found to have profound direct and indirect negative effects on business including costs attributed to loss of productivity and the amount of over the counter medications consumed. Several other studies have examined the immune systemâ€™s response in immunocompromised patients by using nasal cytology. This study focused on nasal cytology for a common illness such as acute rhinosinusitis (ARS), in otherwise healthy individuals. Most studies have used nasal cytology to analyze immunocompromised patients, however, this study considers otherwise healthy patients in order to better understand the basic immune response. This study aimed to examine the relationship between neutrophil frequencies found over the course of ARS and symptom severity experienced by subjects. Nasal smears were obtained from subjects at days five, nine, and fourteen of their ARS symptoms. A published symptom survey for ARS was given to participants to provide a qualifying score, signifying a high enough level of symptoms for this study. This survey monitored both emotional and physical symptoms throughout the fourteen-day illness period. Nasal smears were obtained on each visit and stained to observe the different cells present. Wilcoxon Sum Rank Tests were found to be significant between all symptom score visits 1,2, and 3 (p 0.05). Less than ten percent of eosinophils were present in 88.89 percent of subjects. 55.5 percent of subjects did follow an increased amount of neutrophils over the course of their illness. This study reinforces the use of nasal cytology by obtaining nasal smears to demonstrate how neutrophil frequencies change with symptom severity.
Basement membranes: structure, assembly and role in tumour angiogenesis

In recent years, the basement membrane (BM)--a specialized form of extracellular matrix (ECM)--has been recognized as an important regulator of cell behaviour, rather than just a structural feature of tissues. The BM mediates tissue compartmentalization and sends signals to epithelial cells about the external microenvironment. The BM is also an important structural and functional component of blood vessels, constituting an extracellular microenvironment sensor for endothelial cells and pericytes. Vascular BM components have recently been found to be involved in the regulation of tumour angiogenesis, making them attractive candidate targets for potential cancer therapies.
Assessment of the current D-dimer cutoff point in pulmonary embolism workup at a single institution: Retrospective study.

Background: The currently used D-dimer (DD) cutoff point is associated with a large number of negative CT-pulmonary angiographies (CTPA). We hypothesized presence of deficiency in the current cutoff and a need to look for a better DD threshold. Materials and Methods: We conducted a retrospective medical records analysis of all patients who had a CTPA as part of pulmonary embolism (PE) workup over a 1-year period. All emergency room (ER) patients who had DD assay checked prior to CTPA were included in the analysis. We assessed our institutional cutoff point and tried to test other presumptive DD thresholds retrospectively. Results: At our institution 1591 CTPA were performed in 2014, with 1220 scans (77%) performed in the ER. DD test was ordered prior to CTPA imaging in 238 ER patients (19.5%) as part of the PE workup. PE was diagnosed in 14 cases (6%). The sensitivity and specificity of the currently used DD cutoff (0.5 mcg/mL) were found to be 100% and 13%, respectively. Shifting the cutoff value from 0.5 to 0.85 mcg/mL would result in a significant increase in the specificity from 13% to 51% while maintaining the same sensitivity of 100%. This would make theoretically 84 CTPA scans, corresponding to 35% of CTPA imaging, unnecessary because DD would be considered negative based on this presumptive threshold. Conclusions: Our results suggest a significant deficiency in the institutional DD cutoff point with the need to find a better threshold through a large multicenter prospective trial to minimize unnecessary CTPA scans and to improve patient safety.
Connective tissue disorders in domestic animals.

Though soft tissue disorders have been recognized and described to some detail in several types of domestic animals and small mammals for some years, not much progress has been made in our understanding of the biochemical basis and pathogenesis of these diseases in animals. Ehlers-Danlos syndrome described in dogs already in 1943 and later in cats affects mainly skin in these animals. The involved skin is thin and hyperextensible with easily inflicted injuries resulting in hemorrhagic wounds and atrophic scars. Joint laxity and dislocation common in people are less frequently found in dogs. No systemic complications, such as organ rupture or cardiovascular problems which have devastating consequences in people have been described in cats and dogs. The diagnosis is based on clinical presentation and on light or electron microscopic features of disorganized and fragmented collagen fibrils. Several cases of bovine and ovine dermatosparaxis analogous to human Ehlers-Danlos syndrome type VIIC were found to be caused by mutations in the procollagen I N-proteinase (pnPI) or ADAMTS2 gene, though mutations in other sites are likely responsible for other types of dermatosparaxis. Cattle suffering from a form of Marfan syndrome were described to have aortic dilatation and aneurysm together with ocular abnormalities and skeletal involvement. As in people mutations at different sites of bovine FBN1 may be responsible for Marfan phenotype. Hereditary equine regional dermal asthenia (HERDA), or hyperelastosis cutis, has been recognized in several horse breeds as affecting primarily skin, and, occasionally, tendons. A mutation in cyclophilin B, a chaperon involved in proper folding of collagens, has been identified in some cases. Degenerative suspensory ligament desmitis (DSLD) affects primarily tendons and ligaments of certain horse breeds. New data from our laboratory showed excessive accumulation of proteoglycans in organs with high content of connective tissues. We have identified an abnormal form of decorin with altered biological activity in these proteoglycan deposits, and more recently changes in processing of aggrecan were found by us and other investigators.
Predicting On-the-Job Substance Abuse with a Written Integrity Test

This paper explores definitions and predictors of employee substance abuse, using 173 employed undergraduates who completed a prominent written integrity test and a self-report of work behaviors, including on-the-job (OTJ) alcohol and drug abuse. Approximately 21% of participants reported recent OTJ abuse and were significantly more likely than nonabusers to exhibit other counterproductive work behaviors. Validity coefficients for the integrity test's Employability Index (r = −.25) and Drug Avoidance Scale (r = −.39) suggest that such measures can reduce OTJ abuse, but the procedure's effectiveness may be limited by the high rate of false negatives. We discuss suggestions for improving psychological testing to reduce OTJ abuse.
Curvature of Plane Curves

Let C = f−1(c), where f: U → ℝ, be a plane curve in the open set U ⊂ ℝ2, oriented by N = ∇f/∥∇f∥. Then, for each p ∈ C. the Weingartcn map Lp, is a linear transformation on the 1-dimensional spacc Cp. Sincc every linear transformation from a 1-dimensional space to itself is multiplication by a real number, there exists, for each p ∈ C, a real number K(p) such that $$ {L_p}\left( v \right)\, = \,\kappa \left( p \right)\nu \,for\,all\,\nu \, \in \,{C_p} $$ . K(p) is called the curvature of C at p.
Clean Intermittent Catheterization in Spinal Cord Injury Patients: A Followup Study

A followup study on nonhospitalized spinal cord injury patients using clean intermittent catheterization was conducted to evaluate long-term clean intermittent catheterization for any genitourinary complications, and to institute and evaluate prompt management. A total of 50 patients (36 paraplegics and 14 quadriplegics) was followed for 3 months to 6.5 years (average followup 22 months). All patients had a baseline urodynamic study and renal scan before they were discharged from the hospital. Patients with a reflex bladder and sustained, high intravesical pressures (greater than 40 cm. water) were placed on anticholinergic medication to lower voiding pressures and maintain continence. Those on clean intermittent catheterization and condom drainage were also given alpha-blockers to achieve low pressure voiding and to control autonomic dysreflexia. Of 50 patients 43 (86%) acquired a total of 364 events of significant bacteriuria (10(4) or more colony-forming units per ml.) at a rate of 13.63 infections per 1,000 patient-days on clean intermittent catheterization. Subclinical symptoms for urinary tract infection were noted in 22 of the 43 patients (51%), whereas clinical symptoms for urinary tract infection were recorded in 16 of 43 (37%). These symptoms included fever in 8 patients, chills in 3, hematuria in 3 and flank pain in 2. There were 31 genitourinary complications in 21 patients noted during periodic diagnostic evaluations, with 6 classified as upper tract. Of 50 patients 4 (8%) required rehospitalization for urological problems. One patient died of questionable sepsis. Transurethral sphincterotomy was performed in 15 of the 50 patients (30%) and transurethral prostatectomy was done in 1 for multiple reasons, for example high intravesical voiding pressures, difficult catheterization, repeated symptomatic urinary tract infections or per patient request to discontinue clean intermittent catheterization. Of 7 patients who were catheterized by others 4 elected to discontinue long-term clean intermittent catheterization after an average of 13 months. Overall, 33 patients (66%) discontinued clean intermittent catheterization and 17 are still being followed on a long-term basis. Clean intermittent catheterization is a successful long-term option to drain bladders in spinal cord injury patients who can perform catheterization independently.
Human papillomavirus genotypes from vaginal and vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia in females 15-26 years of age.

OBJECTIVE:To estimate the proportion of vulvar and vaginal low-grade and high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (LSILs and HSILs) in females 15–26 years of age attributable to 14 human papillomavirus (HPV) genotypes (6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, 59).METHODS:A post hoc anal
The Continuous Ranked Probability Score in Practice

A scoring rule is a measure of the goodness of a probability distribution for an uncertain quantity after the uncertainty has been resolved. If a subject assigns a distribution G to an uncertain quantity X and subsequently x is the revealed value of X then we can write the score as S(x; G). Scoring rules have traditionally been defined only for situations where the distribution G is described by the probabilities for a set of mutually exclusive and totally exhaustive events.
The Potential to Reduce Falls and Avert Costs by Clinically Managing Fall Risk.

Introduction Falls often cause severe injuries and are one of the most costly health conditions among older adults. Yet, many falls are preventable. The number of preventable medically treated falls and associated costs averted were estimated by applying evidence-based fall interventions in clinical settings. Methods A review of peer-reviewed literature was conducted in 2017 using literature published between 1994 and 2017, the authors estimated the prevalence of seven fall risk factors and the effectiveness of seven evidence-based fall interventions. Then authors estimated the number of older adults (aged ≥65 years) who would be eligible to receive one of seven fall interventions (e.g., Tai Chi, Otago, medication management, vitamin D supplementation, expedited first eye cataract surgery, single-vision distance lenses for outdoor activities, and home modifications led by an occupational therapist). Using the reported effectiveness of each intervention, the number of medically treated falls that could be prevented and the associated direct medical costs averted were calculated. Results Depending on the size of the eligible population, implementing a single intervention could prevent between 9,563 and 45,164 medically treated falls and avert $94–$442 million in direct medical costs annually. The interventions with the potential to help the greatest number of older adults were those that provided home modification delivered by an occupational therapist (38.2 million), and recommended daily vitamin D supplements (16.7 million). Conclusions This report is the first to estimate the number of medically treated falls that could be prevented and the direct medical costs that could be adverted. Preventing falls can benefit older adults substantially by improving their health, independence, and quality of life.
Involvement of the septation initiation network in events during cytokinesis in fission yeast.

ABSTRACT The septation initiation network (SIN), comprising a GTPase and a cascade of three protein kinases, regulates cell division in fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe , but questions remain about its influence on cytokinesis. Here, we made quantitative measurements of the numbers of Cdc7p kinase molecules (a marker for SIN activity) on spindle pole bodies (SPBs), and on the timing of assembly, maturation and constriction of contractile rings via six different proteins tagged with fluorescent proteins. When SIN activity is low in spg1-106 mutant cells at 32°C, cytokinetic nodes formed contractile rings ∼3 min slower than wild-type cells. During the maturation period, these rings maintained normal levels of the myosin-II mEGFP–Myo2p but accumulated less of the F-BAR protein Cdc15p–GFP than in wild-type cells. The Cdc15p–GFP fluorescence then disintegrated into spots as mEGFP–Myo2p dissociated slowly. Some rings started to constrict at the normal time, but most failed to complete constriction. When high SIN activity persists far longer than normal on both SPBs in cdc16-116 mutant cells at 32°C, contractile rings assembled and constricted normally, but disassembled slowly, delaying cell separation.
The Critical Intersection of Heritage Language Learning and eTandem Learning Environments

At first glance, the growing popularity of eTandem mobile applications for language learning purposes seems to facilitate the connection and collaboration of speakers from all different locations and walks of life. However, when looking more deeply at the design of these applications, an exclusive dichotomy is revealed that prescribes use only by Native Speakers (NS) and Second Language Learners (L2), leaving no consideration for the needs of Heritage Language Learners (HLL). This perpetuation of the hierarchical ranking of language learners and speakers mirrors these same power structures that are present in society (Valdes, Gonzalez, Lopez Garcia, & Marquez, 2003). In order to explore the apparent lack of space for HLL, this study critically analyzes two eTandem mobile applications, HelloTalk and Tandem. By means of Content Analysis (Krippendorff, 1989) of the applications’ affordances informed by a Critical Applied Linguistics framework (Pennycook, 2001), the study finds that there are various features that might offer HLL a space within this environment and foster their affective and educational needs. However, these features are not a primary focus of the application design and the way in which these features could be used to support HLLs’ development is totally dependent on the individual experiences of each user. Utilizing these findings, the investigators offer a set of suggestions for future research in order to advocate for social change manifested by the inclusion of HLL in language learning technologies. In addition, they discuss pedagogical implications for the current state of affairs in order to prepare HLL for interaction with these virtual power structures.
Ontological Deep Data Cleaning

Analytical applications such as forensics, investigative journalism, and genealogy require deep data cleaning in which application-dependent semantic errors and inconsistencies are detected and resolved. To facilitate deep data cleaning, the application is modeled ontologically, and real-world crisp and fuzzy constraints are specified. Conceptual-model-based declarative specification enables rapid development and modification of the usually large number of constraints. Field tests show the prototype’s ability to detect errors and either resolve them or provide guidance for user-involved resolution. A user study also shows the value of declarative specification in deep data cleaning applications.
Fault Detection for Dynamical Systems using Differential Geometric and Concurrent Learning Approach

Abstract A fault identification and estimation approach that brings together the differential geometric concept of observability codistribution with data-driven concurrent learning, is presented in this paper. In order to identify faults in the presence of unknown disturbances, we use the differential geometric approach to design a coordinate transformation, in order to find a subspace in which the effects of disturbances and system faults can be segregated. We then use concurrent learning to estimate the magnitude of the constant fault. We illustrate the approach to fault isolation for a spherical pendulum dynamics. We use Lyapunov stability analysis to show that the fault estimate by concurrent learning converges to the actual fault value, and then illustrate the design of a recovery controller.
Visible-light-mediated, additive-free, and open-to-air controlled radical polymerization of acrylates and acrylamides.

Oxygen tolerance in controlled radical polymerizations has been an active field of study in recent years. Herein, we report a photocontrolled, additive-free iniferter polymerization that operates in completely open vials utilizing the “polymerizing through oxygen” mechanism. Trithiocarbonates are directly activated with high intensity 450 nm light to produce narrowly dispersed (Mw/Mn = 1.1–1.6) polyacrylates and polyacrylamides. Living behavior is demonstrated through chain extension, block copolymer synthesis, and control over molecular weight through varying the monomer : iniferter ratio. A slight increase in induction period is observed for the open vial polymerization compared to the air-free reaction, but polymers with similar Mn and Mw/Mn values are produced after 30–60 minutes of irradiation. This system will provide a convenient platform for living additive manufacturing because of its fast reaction time, air tolerance, wide monomer scope, and lack of any additives beyond the monomer, iniferter, and DMSO solvent.
Drought and small-bodied herbivores modify nutrient cycling in the semi-arid shortgrass steppe

Climate change will increase the frequency of droughts over the next century, with severe consequences for ecosystem function in semi-arid grasslands. The shortgrass steppe (SGS) experiences some of the largest interannual variation in precipitation among terrestrial biomes and exhibits extremely high sensitivity to drought. Yet despite decades of research describing the consequences of drought for ecosystem function in the SGS, we currently have little information regarding the impact of drought on bioavailability of important nutrients other than nitrogen, the contribution of herbivores to bioavailable concentrations of these nutrients, and whether drought alters herbivore-derived nutrient cycling. To quantify the impacts of long-term drought and small-bodied herbivores on nutrient cycling and aboveground net primary production (ANPP), we factorially manipulated rainfall and herbivore presence in the SGS of northern Colorado. Specifically, we measured the impacts of drought and herbivores on bioavailability of ten important nutrients: aluminum, calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, manganese, nitrate, phosphorus, sulfur, and zinc. We then correlated these nutrients with grass production to determine whether reduced plant growth under drought conditions causes a belowground buildup of nutrients. Drought reduced ANPP as expected, and also altered concentrations of many nutrients apart from N, which clustered in their drought response. In contrast, small-bodied herbivores did not affect ANPP or soil N. However, they did contribute to the bioavailable soil concentrations of two important nutrients: PO4-P and S. Importantly, drought generally did not modify the contribution of herbivores to nutrient cycling, suggesting that herbivores might be a critical component of biogeochemical cycling regardless of precipitation in semi-arid grasslands.
Predicting instances of pathway ontology classes for pathway integration

To improve the outcomes of biological pathway analysis, a better way of integrating pathway data is needed. Ontologies can be used to organize data from disparate sources, and we leverage the Pathway Ontology as a unifying ontology for organizing pathway data. We aim to associate pathway instances from different databases to the appropriate class in the Pathway Ontology. Using a supervised machine learning approach, we trained neural networks to predict mappings between Reactome pathways and Pathway Ontology (PW) classes. For 2222 Reactome classes, the neural network (NN) model generated 10,952 class recommendations. We compared against a baseline bag-of-words (BOW) model for predicting correct PW classes. A 5% subset of Reactome pathways (111 pathways) was randomly selected, and the corresponding class recommendations from both models were evaluated by two curators. The precision of the BOW model was higher (0.49 for BOW and 0.39 for NN), but the recall was lower (0.42 for BOW and 0.78 for NN). Around 78% of Reactome pathways received pertinent recommendations from the NN model. The neural predictive model produced meaningful class recommendations that assisted PW curators in selecting appropriate class mappings for Reactome pathways. Our methods can be used to reduce the manual effort associated with ontology curation, and more broadly, for augmenting the curators’ ability to organize and integrate data from pathway databases using the Pathway Ontology.
Randomized Robust Subspace Recovery and Outlier Detection for High Dimensional Data Matrices

This paper explores and analyzes two randomized designs for robust principal component analysis employing low-dimensional data sketching. In one design, a data sketch is constructed using random column sampling followed by low-dimensional embedding, while in the other, sketching is based on random column and row sampling. Both designs are shown to bring about substantial savings in complexity and memory requirements for robust subspace learning over conventional approaches that use the full scale data. A characterization of the sample and computational complexity of both designs is derived in the context of two distinct outlier models, namely, sparse and independent outlier models. The proposed randomized approach can provably recover the correct subspace with computational and sample complexity which depend only weakly on the size of the data (only through the coherence parameters). The results of the mathematical analysis are confirmed through numerical simulations using both synthetic and real data.
Is Low-Temperature Fission-Track Annealing in Apatite a Thermally Controlled Process?

We report a new series of experiments to explore the phenomenon of low-temperature annealing of fission tracks in apatite that feature a number of improvements over previous work. Grain mounts were...
Unexpected cellular players in Rett syndrome pathology.

Abstract Rett syndrome is a devastating neurodevelopmental disorder, primarily caused by mutations of methyl CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2). Although the genetic cause of disease was identified over a decade ago, a significant gap still remains in both our clinical and scientific understanding of its pathogenesis. Neurons are known to be primary players in pathology, with their dysfunction being the key in Rett syndrome. While studies in mice have demonstrated a clear causative – and potential therapeutic – role for neurons in Rett syndrome, recent work has suggested that other tissues also contribute significantly to progression of the disease. Indeed, Rett syndrome is known to present with several common peripheral pathologies, such as osteopenia, scoliosis, gastrointestinal problems including nutritional defects, and general growth deficit. Mouse models assessing the potential role of non-neuronal cell types have confirmed both roles in disease and potential therapeutic targets. A new picture is emerging in which neurons both initiate and drive pathology, while dysfunction of other cell types and peripheral tissues exacerbate disease, possibly amplifying further neurologic problems, and ultimately result in a positive feedback loop of progressively worsening symptoms. Here, we review what is known about neuronal and non-neuronal cell types, and discuss how this new, integrative understanding of the disease may allow for additional clinical and scientific pathways for treating and understanding Rett syndrome.
Childhood Obesity: An Evidence-Based Approach to Family-Centered Advice and Support-Reply.

The prevalence of childhood obesity continues to rise despite decades of clinical and public health efforts. Early identification of children at risk of developing obesity is essential using newer electronic health systems, which move beyond traditional growth charts to provide a wealth of information about body mass index and other relevant parameters such as social determinants of health and comorbid conditions. For children who already have obesity, there are several evidence-based strategies health care providers can use as they work with patients and families to mitigate the effects. First and foremost, providers should address the issue; unfortunately, weight is often not discussed in clinical practice. In addressing the issue, providers should support families through effective, positive relationships. Providers must be aware of their biases; their language should be appropriate and nonstigmatizing. Helpful interventions should focus on behavior, not weight, health, or appearance. Motivational interviewing may be used to promote healthful behaviors: supportive parenting, regular exercise, healthful food choices, minimal screen time, and optimal sleep. There is limited evidence for the efficacy of specific weight loss diets. Both medication and bariatric surgery are indicated for select adolescents who have severe disease unresponsive to behavioral management.