cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The sensitivity of diffraction profiles to grain boundary segregation

In this paper, the relrod profiles of a number of weak grain boundary reflections are computed with and without the presence of substitutional impurities, The {Epsilon}13 (22.6{degrees}) (001) twist in gold is chosen since, for this system, a number of relrod profiles have been measured that exhibit fine structure. To perform the calculations, a molecular statics method is used together with embedded-atom potentials. The first objective is to compare the measured and computed relrod profiles for pure gold to establish that the fine structure is intrinsic to the grain boundary. The second objective is to determine by calculation the sensitivity of these relrods to the presence of low concentrations of impurity, in this case nickel. It will be seen that many of the relrods respond in such a way as to make them useful indicator of grain boundary segregation.
A method for assaying for glycoprotein in column fractionation.

SummaryA convenient method for qualitative or quantitative determination of carbohydrate in many samples has been worked out. The method involved the deposition of micro quantities of the samples on paper strips, staining with Koiw's stain and analysis of the results with the Spinco Analytrol apparatus. The method, applied to the fractions obtained from the column electrophoresis of bovine fraction VI on a cellulose column, demonstrated the presence of a glycoprotein component which binds I131 labeled thyroxine.
On the Efficient Production of Metastable Oxygen from Electrical Discharges

We investigate the performance of a cavity microwave discharge (MWD) operating in tandem with a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD). Tandem discharge operates in helium/oxygen mixtures, where metastable molecular oxygen can be produced efficiently using MWD in proportionally large quantities (order of 20% of total oxygen number density). In this new arrangement, DBD provides the metastablesrich mixture to MWD, thereby providing seeding and modifying the discharge kinetics. Both discharges operate in synchronized pulse repetitive mode, which is tailored to maximize power efficiency of the oxygen metastable production. The system operates at pressures up to 350 Torr at average power between 3 to 20 Watt.
Comparison of the results from two diagnostic reagents for HIV antibody

Objective To compare the quality of enzyme linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA) and immunochromatographic test for testing HIV antibody. Methods Different reagents were used in parallel testing the same samples according to the operation procedure provided by different reagent manufactories. Results The sensitivity of immunochromatographic test was less than that of ELISA. Conclusion Immunochromatographic reagent should not be selected for routine use for HIV antibody diagnosis.
Monitoring results and measures of water quality of swimming pool in a cityduring 2010-2012

Objective Analyzing the water quality of the swimming pool of the city about the sanitary conditions and the variational tendency during the year 2010 to 2012, finded out the problems. It was timely to eliminate potential danger and improve the sanitary quality of public swimming pool. Methods Adopting the national standard inspection ways tested the water of the swimming pool, including six items-the turbidity degree, free residual chlorine, pH value, urea, total bacteria, coliform. Results The eligible rate of water quality tends to be fine gradually from 2010 to 2012. The eligible rate of busy swimming season(71.20%) was lower than the eligible rate of lack season(89.38%), and the difference was statistically significant. The eligible rate of free residual chlorine was lowest in these three years, the total bacteria and urea followed, but the eligible rate of coilform group and pH value relatively remained stable, the eligible rate of turbidity was up to 100%; the water quality index(80.08%) in the specialized public swimming pool was higher than that in the swimming pool of residential district(75.67%) and in hotel swimming pool(64.15%). Conclusion The hygienic quality of water quality in swimming pool of this city has been improved, but health supervision of swimming pool in residential district and hotel should yet be strengthened, enhancing water sterilization and changing water regularly.
Seismic analysis technique of HVDC valves

Thyristor valve is a key device of HVDC transmission system,its aseismic performance can directly affect the seismic safety of a whole DC system,its aseismic behavior is an important factor when designing valves.Valves' structure adopted shock absorber design.Considering impact of rotating stiffness in hinged place,three-dimensional finite element models of ideal valves and improved ones were constructed.Two procedures were used to calculate the ideal model.Firstly,the dynamic characteristics of the two models were calculated.The influence factors on their dynamic characters were discussed subsequently.Secondly,the response of them were analyzed with the time history analysis method under horizontal and vertical excitations.The results indicated that the valves have good anti-shock capacity;under horizontal earthquake,the valves may occur oscillation phenomena with lower frequencies;the improved valve structure can improve displacement deformation of the valves' body.
Taking an RDoC lens to the study of panic disorder: A commentary on Hamm et al. and other thoughts on RDoC

The Research Domain Criteria (RDoC) initiative put forth by the National Institute of Mental Health represents an exciting new framework in which to study psychopathology. The article by Hamm et al. (2016) is an interesting application of an "RDoC lens" toward a program of research on panic disorder. This commentary highlights the many strengths of the Hamm et al. (2016) study-most notably the article's application of a well-studied animal model of anxiety (Fanselow's, , threat imminence model) to humans, utilization of an interesting behavioral paradigm (as an analog for avoidance behaviors in panic disorder), and using RDoC to examine predictors of treatment response. This commentary also discusses several questions about RDoC that arise out of Hamm et al. For example, (a) How should participants be selected for RDoC studies? (b) Are RDoC constructs risk factors (and risk factors for what)? (c) Besides Hamm et al.'s, approach, how else can RDoC be used in treatment studies? In sum, Hamm et al. is a very good example of an RDoC study, and in this early phase of the initiative, more examples for how the approach plays out are needed.
Simulated Microgravity and 3D Culture Enhance Induction, Viability, Proliferation and Differentiation of Cardiac Progenitors from Human Pluripotent Stem Cells

Efficient generation of cardiomyocytes from human pluripotent stem cells is critical for their regenerative applications. Microgravity and 3D culture can profoundly modulate cell proliferation and survival. Here, we engineered microscale progenitor cardiac spheres from human pluripotent stem cells and exposed the spheres to simulated microgravity using a random positioning machine for 3 days during their differentiation to cardiomyocytes. This process resulted in the production of highly enriched cardiomyocytes (99% purity) with high viability (90%) and expected functional properties, with a 1.5 to 4-fold higher yield of cardiomyocytes from each undifferentiated stem cell as compared with 3D-standard gravity culture. Increased induction, proliferation and viability of cardiac progenitors as well as up-regulation of genes associated with proliferation and survival at the early stage of differentiation were observed in the 3D culture under simulated microgravity. Therefore, a combination of 3D culture and simulated microgravity can be used to efficiently generate highly enriched cardiomyocytes.
The conundrum of police officer-involved homicides: Counter-data in Los Angeles County:

This paper draws from critical data studies and related fields to investigate police officer-involved homicide data for Los Angeles County. We frame police officer-involved homicide data as a rheto...
The Determination of Absolute Magnitudes from Proper Motions

A brief review is given of the several ways in which stellar motions may be used statistically. In the case where the motions of all stars shown on plates of certain regions are measured these are generally used to determine kinematical relations in the Galaxy and only secondarily for the estimation of luminosities; when motions are measured for special groups of stars the solar motion is first determined and then used for the calculation of distances and luminosities.
Erythropoietin Modulation of Podocalyxin within an Erythroblast Niche.

Epo’s capacity to promote red cell production is ascribed largely to anti-apoptotic effects on erythroid progenitor pools. Via gene profiling of bone marrow- derived erythroblasts, Epo is now revealed to down-modulate chemokine receptor-4 (Cxcr4) and integrin alpha-4 (Itga4), and to selectively up-modulate the expression of growth differentiation factor 3 (Gdf3), oncostatin-M (Onco-M), and the sialomucin podocalyxin like-1 (PODXL). Epo dose-dependent induction of PODXL was approximately 20 fold; was discovered in Kit pos CD71 high erythroblasts; and peaked at subsequent Kit neg CD71 high and Ter119 pos stages. As studied using minimal knocked-in Epo receptor (EpoR) alleles, efficient PODXL expression depended upon a proximal EpoR PY343 Stat5 binding site. In mice expressing a phosphotyrosine-null EpoR-HM allele, compromised PODXL expression further correlated with an abnormal representation of anucleated red cells in marrow (and with defective Epo-induced production of PODXL pos reticulocytes). By selectively modulating Gdf3, Onco-M, Cxcr4, Itga-4 and PODXL expression, Epo is proposed to modify a unique erythroid niche, mobilize early-stage erythroblasts, and promote reticulocyte emigration to blood.
Dance Trends: Advocating for Your Program

Of all the skills that dance teachers need, one of the most valuable is the ability to advocate for your program. The students in your class come to understand the value of your classes through dir...
The Triangle: Energy, Water & Food Nexus for Sustainable Security in the Arab Middle East

This chapter examines water security in the broader relationships governing the Food-Water-Energy-Climate Nexus. It particularly stresses the role of the great global transmissions of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries in presenting intractable barriers to returning to less complicated eras of resource conflicts. These transitions are manifest in total and urban populations’ growth and shift to urbanization; radical shifts in the nutrition demanded by the new economic and social developments; the radical changes in land use and chemicals in agriculture; a rapid shift in emphasis on renewable energy resources and reduced reliance on fossil fuels; and finally the great challenge of climate change. All of these transitions have major implications for water security both globally, and regionally. Globally this is well articulated by DuBois (The case for “energy-smart food for people and climate”. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, World Food Day-Oct 16, 2015): Our agrifood systems currently consume 30 percent of the world’s available energy—with more than 70 percent occurring beyond the farm gate, and produce about 20 percent of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions. More than one third of the food we produce is lost or wasted, and with it about 38 percent of the energy consumed in the agrifood chain.
Leveraging nMOS Negative Differential Resistance for Low Power, High Reliability Magnetic Memory

We propose, demonstrate, and assess a nontunneling-based nMOS voltage-controlled negative differential resistance (V-NDR) concept for overcoming the intrinsic efficiency and reliability shortcomings of magnetic random access memory memories (MRAM). Using nMOS V-NDR circuits in series with MRAM tunnel junctions, we experimentally observe 40 times reduction in current during switching, enabling write termination and read margin amplification. Large scale Monte Carlo simulations also show 5X improvement in write energy savings and demonstrate the robustness of the scheme against device variability.
Evaluation and assessment of high fidelity burns simulation as part of a Plastic Surgery training day

Abstract Introduction Despite the widespread introduction and acceptance of simulation across various specialties, and other nations outlining plans to establish a similar approach within Plastic Surgery, there remains a clear void within the current United Kingdom training programme. Burns represents one of the key areas in which trainees appear to be struggling to accumulate adequate experience. This study aimed to evaluate a high fidelity burns simulation run as part of a training day for Plastic Surgery registrars. Methods A high fidelity multimodal burns simulation session was run at a regional Plastic Surgery & Burns unit making use of Medical SimMan technology produced by Leardal. Twenty Plastic Surgery registrars participated in three simulated scenarios. Scenarios were based upon learning outcomes derived from the Plastic Surgery curriculum. Participants were provided with surveys in order to evaluate the session and its validity, primarily using a Lickert-style questions. Results The simulation session generated very positive feedback evidenced by high median responses in relation to both general and specific questions. Face validity was assessed by five Lickert-style questions with an overall median of 5 (IQR = 1). Content validity was assessed by six Lickert-style questions also with an overall median was 5 (IQR = 1). Responses strongly suggested that the session was relevant to training, represented an appropriate method of teaching and would impact on clinical practice. Conclusion Evaluation showed the scenarios run in this study were appropriate, relevant and likely to have an impact on practice. In addition they were comparable with simulations previously run in Plastic Surgery and those used for training in other specialties. It would be entirely reasonable to conclude that this simulation day was successful and adds to the growing opinion that such sessions should be more closely incorporated into burns training.
Developing and supporting quality nursery facilities and staff are necessary to meet global forest and landscape restoration needs

Seedlings are the foundation for many terrestrial ecosystems and are a critical consideration and investment for implementing global forest and landscape restoration programs. Global leaders have pledged to restore millions of hectares during the next decade, necessitating many millions of established plants. Although natural regeneration and direct seeding will likely meet a portion of that need, large quantities of high-quality, nursery-grown seedlings are also required. Insufficient plant quantities or poor-quality plants result in unsuccessful outplanting programs. Such failures have considerable economic and environmental consequences and will result in an inability to meet restoration goals. Nonetheless, the importance of restoration nurseries is often overlooked when making large-scale restoration commitments. Technology already exists to produce high-quality plants to meet a variety of goals. This technology cannot be applied, however, unless adequate resources and training are made available by overcoming political and socioeconomic barriers. In this article, we discuss the important role of nurseries to meet global restoration commitments and review three case studies where increased support to nursery programs resulted in improved restoration success.
Injury prevention: achieving population-level change.

Injury remains a leading cause of death and disability for all sectors of the community in all regions of the world.1–3 Since the 1960s when injury was conceptualised as a public health problem, there has been an escalation of knowledge relating to ‘what works’ to prevent injury. However, the rapid development of new injury prevention knowledge is quickly outstripping society’s capacity to implement it.4 This supplement of Injury Prevention brings together examples of empirical-based injury prevention research that demonstrate the state-of-the-art methods of achieving population-level reductions in injury-related harm. The issue also includes contributions that make the case for expanding existing public health paradigms of injury prevention beyond ‘what works’ and towards understanding the contexts and supports necessary for embedding effective injury prevention interventions within sustainable, synergistic systems of safety promotion. Population health science is one orienting frame for understanding and addressing the conditions that shape large-scale distributions of injury outcomes. Galea and Keyes5 describe how population health science can inform public health action in terms of ‘what works’ and ‘when’ and ‘for whom’. They pose a series of considerations injury researchers can use to both uncover the …
Radiology: The Basics

Having an understanding of basic radiology is crucial in orthopaedics. It is important to have an appreciation for which imaging modality is the ideal choice for a particular clinical question. Furthermore, one needs to develop a systematic approach for the evaluation of these studies so as not to misinterpret or overlook a clinically significant finding. This chapter highlights some of the important points one should be aware of while obtaining imaging in orthopaedics.
Abstract 14250: Differential Left Atrial Posterior Wall Remodeling With Proximity to the Thoracic Descending Aorta

Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is associated with structural left atrial (LA) remodeling. The extent of late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) on cardiac MRI is associated with AF recurrence following ablation. In our experience, we have noticed LA posterior wall enhancement adjacent to the aorta that seems unrelated to extent of atrial disease. Hypothesis: Due to its pulsatile nature, the aorta is implicated in fibrotic remodeling of proximate LA. We examined here the association between aortic proximity and distensibility with the extent of adjacent LA LGE. Methods: One hundred and nine patients presenting for an index AF ablation underwent pre-procedural MRI. The descending thoracic aorta and LA myocardium were manually segmented (Figure). The extent of LGE was quantified using the normalized image intensity ratio as percent mass of LA wall. The average distance between the aorta and the atrial wall was quantified using a custom-written software and aortic distensibility (Δarea/area max ) was measured from cine-MR. Results: Overall 15.2±10.8% of the LA exhibited LGE. The extent of LGE was higher in the posterior LA (26.0±13.4% vs 8.0±6.3% in the anterior LA). Mean aortic distensibility was 11.4±5.3% and mean aorta-to-LA wall distance was 31.1±5.1mm. Aortic distensibility was directly associated with posterior LA LGE (p=0.009) after adjusting for age, CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc score, AF type, total atrial LGE burden and LA volume in multivariable linear regression. The average distance between the LA myocardium and aorta was inversely related to posterior myocardial LGE extent (p Conclusion: The extent of posterior LA LGE is higher in AF patients with greater aortic distensibility and shorter distance between the descending aorta and LA. Our findings support a potential direct remodeling effect from aortic distension upon the posterior LA. Figure
Personalized treatment of malignant mesothelioma-dream or reality?

Malignant mesotheliomas are highly aggressive neoplasms that arise from serosal surfaces, most commonly the pleura. While these tumors are usually related to asbestos exposure, radiation for Hodgkin lymphoma or genetic alterations such as germline BRCA1 associated protein-1 ( BAP1 ) inactivation syndrome, structural gene rearrangements in the Ewing sarcoma breakpoint region 1 ( EWSR1 ), fused in sarcoma ( FUS ), or anaplastic lymphoma kinase ( ALK ) have been implicated in a few patients (1).
Novel collagen-mimetic structures

The synthesis and biophysical study of collagen mimetics is important for the development of novel biomaterials. Collagen proteins contain large triple-helical domains composed of Gly-X-Y repeats, where X and Y are often proline and hydroxyproline, respectively. We recently introduced (KTA represents the Kemp triacid, Fig. 1) as a template for the synthesis of triple-helical structures with relatively short chain lengths [1]. The template stabilizes triple-helical structures compared to analogous triple-helical structures formed from single-chains through intermolecular association. We also discovered that peptoid residue Nleu (N-isobutylglycine) can serve as a proline substitute in structures with [2,3] and [4] repeats. According to biophysical studies based on CD, optical rotation, and NMR, these compounds form triplehelical structures when chain lengths are above a critical length. These peptoid-containing structures are attractive because of their anticipated resistance to proteolytic enzymes. We have now synthesized structures containing an achiral trimer repeat, Gly-NleuNleu (Fig. 1). The achiral unit is of interest as a means of simplifying the primary structure of collagen-mimetics. The following acetyl-terminated and template-assembled structures were examined: and KTA-
Evidence for Agrobacterium-Mediated Genetic Transformation in Larix Decidua

Our research efforts have demonstrated that European larch (Larix decidua) is susceptible to Agrobacterium infection, that agrobacterial plasmid transfer into larch cells occurs, and that subsequent expression of the plas-mid-harbored genes takes place in the transformed larch tissues. These results provide documented proof of Agrobacterium-mediated gene transfer in this softwood species.
Chapter 14 Numerical dynamic programming in economics

Publisher Summary This chapter explores the numerical methods for solving dynamic programming (DP) problems. The DP framework has been extensively used in economics because it is sufficiently rich to model almost any problem involving sequential decision making over time and under uncertainty. The chapter focuses on continuous Markov decision processes (MDPs) because these problems arise frequently in economic applications. Although, complexity theory suggests a number of useful algorithms, the theory has relatively little to say about important practical issues, such as determining the point at which various exponential-time algorithms such as Chebyshev approximation methods start to blow up, making it optimal to switch to polynomial-time algorithms. In future work, it will be essential to provide numerical comparisons of a broader range of methods over a broader range of test problems, including problems of moderate to high dimensionality.
Spray Forming with Uniform Droplets

A Sn – 37 wt.% Pb eutectic alloy was spray formed with a uniform-droplet spray generated by a non-gas atomization process based on the controlled break up of a laminar jet. Uniform droplets were produced to have identical thermal history and velocity and were deposited onto a substrate in controlled motion to provide distinctly different thermal states of the droplets and the deposit surface. The spray formed alloy presented fine, equiaxed two-phase microstructures when partially solidified droplets were deposited and expitaxial, columnar microstructures when superheated droplets were deposited, on either a solidified or partially solidified deposit surface. The range of microstructural control possible by uniform-droplet spray forming was illustrated with a process-structure map.
The Transamazon Highway: Past, Present, Future

This chapter addresses the opening of Amazonia, which was driven in large part by the construction and improvement of federal highways in a series of megaprojects. It focuses on the most famous of these, the Transamazon Highway, and considers the environmental, cultural, and economic impacts arising in the aftermath of its inauguration in the early 1970s. The chapter starts with a description of Brazil’s Highway system, and how the Transamazon forms part of it. After this comes a discussion of the highway’s implementation, which considers both the grand colonization schemes envisioned to accompany and validate the highway’s construction, as well as the hard reality that the colonists faced, and overcame, to take advantage of government investment. Next, the chapter presents an accounting of the many impacts that have resulted from the Transamazon project, not the least of which has been the opening of the heart of the world’s largest closed tropical forest to agriculture, its most controversial, and valuable, consequence. The chapter concludes with a call to strike a balance between the region’s development, via megaprojects such as the Transamazon Highway, and the long-run conservation of its ecological resources.
Perceptions of Integration of the Clinical Pharmacist into the Patient Care Medical Home Model.

Introduction The patient-centered medical home (PCMH) model is a multidisciplinary, team-based approach to healthcare that focuses on actively involving the patient in clinical decision making. The Veterans Health Administration (VA), while desiring to be a national leader in the delivery of primary care services, used the principles of the PCMH model to design the patient-aligned care team (PACT). The purpose of this study, was to explore the perception of the PACT members after integration of a clinical pharmacist to the PACT. Methods This was a single-center cross-sectional study conducted at an integrated Veterans Health Administration system. We electronically surveyed PACT staff practicing within VA-Tennessee Valley Health Care System as of October 1, 2016 using a modified version of the Medicine Medication Use Processes Matrix (MUPM) containing 19 items on five theoretical grouping of processes (evaluation and management, monitoring, medication review, documentation, and education) and two groupings(clinician satisfaction and access). Results Ninety-one complete responses were received. Perceptions were positive, with 79% rated as either 4 ("moderate contribution") or 5 ("major contribution"). Individual responses based on discipline, with the exception of the medical support assistant were rated positive, specifically job satisfaction. Conclusions This study evaluated the perceptions of clinical pharmacist integration into the PACT model. Respondents perceived clinical pharmacist beneficial.
Critical Issues When Testing for Amphetamine-Type Stimulants: Pitfalls of Immunoassay Screening and Mass Spectrometric Confirmation for Amphetamines, Methamphetamines, and Designer Amphetamines

Abstract Amphetamine and methamphetamine are not only widely abused but these drugs along with certain drugs, which are metabolized to amphetamine or methamphetamine (which is further metabolized to amphetamine) are also used for treating narcolepsy, attention-deficit disorders in children over age 6 years, as well as short-term treatment of obesity. Immunoassays are commonly employed to screen for the presence of amphetamine/methamphetamine, but many over-the-counter drugs, most commonly ephedrine/pseudoephedrine interfere with immunoassays causing false-positive test results. However, analytical test results may also occur after taking prescription medications that are metabolized to amphetamine or methamphetamine. Moreover, l -isomer of methamphetamine is present in Vick’s inhaler while d -methamphetamine is abused. Although recommended use of Vick’s inhaler should not produce positive test result with amphetamine/methamphetamine immunoassay due to stereospecificity of antibody, excess use of Vick’s inhaler may cause positive test result. In that situation gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis using chiral derivatization must be used to confirm methamphetamine abuse.
Relation between ambulatory actigraphy and laboratory polysomnography in insomnia practice and research.

Actigraphy is increasingly used in practice and research studies because of its relative low cost and decreased subject burden. How multiple nights of at-home actigraphy compare to one independent night of in-laboratory polysomnography (PSG) has not been examined in people with insomnia. Using event markers (MARK) to set time in bed (TIB) compared to automatic program analysis (AUTO) has not been systematically evaluated. Subjects (n = 30) meeting DSM-5 criteria for insomnia and in-laboratory PSG sleep efficiency (SE) of <85% were studied. Subjects were free of psychiatric, sleep or circadian disorders, other chronic conditions and medications that effect sleep. Subjects had an in-laboratory PSG, then were sent home for 7 nights with Philips Actiwatch Spectrum Plus. Data were analysed using Philips Actiware version 6. Using the mean of seven nights, TIB, total sleep time (TST), SE, sleep-onset latency (SOL) and wake after sleep onset (WASO) were examined. Compared to PSG, AUTO showed longer TIB and TST and less WASO. MARK only differed from PSG with decreased WASO. Differences between the PSG night and the following night at home were found, with better sleep on the first night home. Actigraphy in people with insomnia over seven nights is a valid indicator of sleep compared to an independent in-laboratory PSG. Event markers increased the validity of actigraphy, showing no difference in TIB, TST, SE and SOL. AUTO was representative of SE and SOL. Increased SE and TST without increased TIB suggests possible compensatory sleep the first at night home after in-laboratory PSG.
Woodland Expansion in US Grasslands

While the environmental impacts of tropical deforestation have received considerable attention, reductions in biomass are in stark contrast to significant increases in woody plant abundance in many grasslands worldwide. Though not well quantified on a global scale, this vegetation change has been widely reported in tropical, temperate and high-latitude rangelands worldwide (Archer 1994; Archer et al., 2001). Land-cover change of this type and magnitude is likely to affect key ecosystem processes in grasslands, and may significantly alter carbon cycling and feedbacks to climate change.
Smallholder food storage dynamics and resilience

For smallholder farmers in developing countries, agricultural production is seasonal yet food demand is constant throughout the year. One fundamental agricultural decision is how much harvest to sell versus store for subsequent household consumption. Little is known about the temporal dimensions of grain storage, the extent to which storage levels vary over time, and the diversity of food storage patterns across different household types. This paper examines household level maize storage consumption, sales, and purchases using weekly food storage data collected via text message. We demonstrate how high frequency data can be used to measure rates and patterns of food storage decline, identify thresholds of food security, and anticipate future periods of food insecurity at a fine spatial scale.
Effectively Unified optimization for Large-scale Graph Community Detection

In this paper, we present a unified graph clustering framework based on an asynchronous approach. We study the similarities among the Louvain algorithm and the Infomap algorithm. Based on their common features, we build an end-to-end optimized distributed framework for implementing both algorithms. By extending the existing asynchronous distributed framework for large-scale graphs traversal, we ensure both workload and communication balanced. Our extensive experiments show that our framework is correct and effective with different large real-world and synthetic datasets using up to 32,768 processors for the Louvain algorithm and 16,384 processors for the Infomap algorithm. The quality and the scalability of our framework are superior to the existing work.
VI – Stochastic Scheduling

Publisher Summary This chapter deals with the problems of scheduling, assigning, and ordering. The chapter presents a model for maximizing the expected reward earned in a fixed time. It also considers the problems consisting of two processors and n jobs needing to be processed. The time until all jobs have been processed is called the makespan, and the objective is to determine the schedule that minimizes the expected makespan. Therefore, in both the models, the purpose is to minimize the expected time until all work is completed. Minimizing the expected difference of the times at which the processors become idle leads to minimizing the expected makespan. The chapter discusses stochastic versions of two deterministic optimization problems: (1) the knapsack problem and (2) the assignment problem. A stochastic knapsack model states that a system must operate for t units of time. A certain component is essential for its operation and must be replaced with a new component, when it fails.
Future concepts and therapy approaches for Peyronie’s disease

Collagenase Clostridium histolyticum (CCh) is the only drug approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of Peyronie’s Disease (PD). However, it is limited in its scope of appr...
Replication of a Claims-based Algorithm to Estimate Multiple Sclerosis Disease Severity in a Commercially Insured Population.

Abstract Background/Objective Patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) tend to have significantly lower health-related quality of life, increased mortality and morbidity, and increased healthcare costs. The lack of a claims-based algorithm to correctly identify disease severity makes targeted selection of the MS patients for specific interventions an important limitation in real-world MS research. Methods Using the Optum claims dataset (2016 -2018), 11,429 persons with MS and >= 24 months of eligibility were identified. A previously developed claims-based algorithm was employed to categorize MS disease severity (low, moderate, high), using MS symptoms and healthcare utilization. Linear regression analysis was used to determine the relationship between disease severity and total cost, a proxy for disease severity. Flexible parametric models were used to determine the risk of 12-month follow-up MS-related relapses and MS-related hospitalizations among the MS disease severity groups. Results The risk of both MS-related relapses and MS-related hospitalizations increased as MS disease severity increased. The risk for MS-related relapses was significantly higher in the moderate (HR = 2.43, 95% CI 1.24 -2.64, P 0.001) and high disease severity (HR =12.70, 95% CI 10.57-15.09, P Conclusion The claims-based disease severity algorithm performed well in explaining the total healthcare cost (excluding DMTs). The algorithm-determined disease severity categorization appears consistent with traditional measures of disease severity (MS relapse and hospitalizations). This claims-based algorithm may be a useful tool in determining MS disease severity in claims data.
COVID-19 pandemic – online education in the new normal and the next normal

The development and advancement of information technology provide a technical platform for education reform and opportunities for innovation in education. The global COVID-19 pandemic has created a...
Changes in general self-efficacy and mindfulness are associated with short-term improvements in mood during art-making in a partial hospital program

Abstract A growing body of scholarship suggests that art-making provides symptom relief as well as short-term mood benefits. However, more research is needed to explore how artistic activities may lead to mood improvements within the course of sessions conducted in clinical contexts. To this end, we examined short-term outcomes of participation in an art group offered within a brief partial hospital program in which intensive day treatment is delivered. In a preliminary study (Study 1) conducted on Amazon MTurk (N = 193), we validated the use of a brief 7-item self-assessment scale to capture potential outcomes of art-making identified based on a review of the literature: positive/negative mood, general self-efficacy, creative self-efficacy, activation, mindfulness, and social connectedness. In our main study (Study 2), 175 patients in a partial hospital program completed the brief instrument validated in Study 1 at the beginning and end of a 50-minute unstructured art group. All psychological outcomes improved over the course of the group. Changes in general self-efficacy and mindfulness were associated with improvements in mood over and above changes in other outcomes. Results are limited by the naturalistic, uncontrolled, design of the group, which was not led by art therapists. These findings suggest that further studies examining patients’ experiences during art-making in clinical settings may provide useful insights into how this activity enhances mood.
Being An Artist Is Hard: Navigating the Dynamics of Money and Power

Since the global financial crisis of 2008, the art market has experienced big sales against a backdrop characterized by widening economic inequity and evolving mass media and technology. The rapidly changing landscape of the arts not only has the possibility of destabilizing the career trajectory of artists and altering the mode of creative production, but also the potential to offer new opportunities for them. Focusing on the United States, this thesis takes as its starting point the idea that artists are the most fundamental actors in the art world and then investigates the ways in which and the extent to which artists are affected by the new paradigm. The paper analyzes the economic precarity of artists in relation to their most immediate environment of cultural institution, philanthropy, and the art market. I approach these topics by studying extant literature on cultural economics, sociology, and politics; surveying primary sources; and interviewing industry practitioners. I argue that the current challenges in relation to philanthropy, to the governance of cultural institutions, and to the stratified art market, render the art world increasingly undemocratic, which has the consequence of compromising creative autonomy and hindering sustainability of artistic careers. In the context of these challenges that artists face in the art world environment, I examine the aspects of creative careers that structurally impede artists from attaining financial security while engaging in creative production. Ultimately, contextualizing these challenges within proliferation of blockchain applications and mass media, I demonstrate how entrepreneurship and retained fractional equity could facilitate artists’ survival and “thrival” within the precariousness.
Encouragement of subgroup assessment by the FDA

Responses to a drug treatment can differ among subgroups of the population, including demographic subgroups, groups with different disease characteristics, and groups with different metabolic or excretory functions. The differences can be pharmacokinetic (PK) or pharmacodynamic (PD) affecting toxicity or effectiveness. In recent years wide availability of drug blood level data, including metabolite data, has made PK differences in subgroups very readily detectable, but PD differences are more difficult to detect and need to be carefully examined by assessment of effectiveness and toxicity in demographic and other subgroups, as illustrated by the forest plots examining multiple subgroups typically presented for cardiovascular outcome studies. Such examinations and presentations would probably be more broadly useful and informative if used to examine pooled outcome and toxicity data for symptomatic treatments.
Multifamily Housing in Large Urban Areas in the U.S., 1970-2010

On average about a third of the housing units in 59 large urban areas in the United States in 2010 were multifamily housing. The share was higher in the urban cores and lower in the suburban peripheries, but the suburbs still had a mean of over a quarter of the housing multifamily in 2010, with single-family detached housing constituting about three-fifths. The suburban areas saw the greatest changes from 1970 to 2010 with an increase of nearly 8 points in the average percent multifamily. But variation in both percentages and change across urban areas were very great. In 2010, mean percent multifamily in the urban cores was greatest for urban areas in the Northeast and, perhaps surprisingly, in the West, where the share had grown rapidly since 1970. The suburbs showed little difference by region. The share multifamily in the cores was significantly related to the size of the urban area and its rate of growth over the prior decades. Only the growth rate was related to the suburban percentage multifamily. Percentages of units of different housing types (single-family attached, multifamily, and mobile homes) significantly predicted the densities of the urban areas.
TSC1 loss increases risk for tauopathy by inducing tau acetylation and preventing tau clearance via chaperone-mediated autophagy

Age-associated neurodegenerative disorders demonstrating tau-laden intracellular inclusions are known as tauopathies. We previously linked a loss-of-function mutation in the TSC1 gene to tau accumu...
Validity and reliability of eye tracking for visual acuity assessment in children with cortical visual impairment.

Abstract Background Cortical visual impairment (CVI) is the leading cause of pediatric visual impairment in developed countries, but there is currently no evidence-based treatment. A method of visual assessment that captures multiple domains of visual functioning may facilitate evaluation of proposed therapies. We have developed an eye-tracking protocol that evaluates afferent, efferent, and higher-order visual parameters in children with CVI. We report its validity and reliability in assessing visual acuity. Methods We recruited 16 children with CVI between the ages of 12 months and 12 years. Visual acuity was assessed clinically using a previously published six-level scale of visual behavior. Grating acuity was assessed by eye tracking using forced-choice preferential looking, which was performed at baseline and 1 month for reliability testing. Validity was assessed by correlating clinical acuity with grating acuity by eye tracking. Results Clinical visual acuity ranged from 3 to 6 on the six-level scale, and grating acuity ranged from 0.25 to 20 cycles per degree (logMAR 0.18-2.08). There was strong correlation between grating acuity by eye tracking and clinical acuity assessment (ρ = −0.82; P = 0.0002). Test–retest reliability was excellent, with an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.96 (95% CI, 0.88-0.99). Conclusions Eye tracking demonstrates excellent reliability for visual acuity assessment and high correlation with clinical assessment of visual acuity in pediatric CVI. Future research is necessary to determine whether eye tracking can assess other visual and oculomotor parameters in children with CVI, a prerequisite for incorporating this technique into future clinical trials and patient care.
Methods of engineering mathematics

Matrices linear algebra eigenvalue problems and quadatic forms infinite series function space and fourier series mathematical models in mechanics introduction to the theory of linear partial differential equations methods of solving second order partial differential equations linear operator theory in mechanics variational methods for boundary-value problems applications of variational methods an introduction to finite element methods.
An intelligent approach to data extraction and task identification for process mining

Business process mining has received increasing attention in recent years due to its ability to provide process insights by analyzing event logs generated by various enterprise information systems. A key challenge in business process mining projects is extracting process related data from massive event log databases, which requires rich domain knowledge and advanced database skills and could be very labor-intensive and overwhelming. In this paper, we propose an intelligent approach to data extraction and task identification by leveraging relevant process documents. In particular, we analyze those process documents using text mining techniques and use the results to identify the most relevant database tables for process mining. The novelty of our approach is to formalize data extraction and task identification as a problem of extracting attributes as process components, and relations among process components, using sequence kernel techniques. Our approach can reduce the effort and increase the accuracy of data extraction and task identification for process mining. A business expense imbursement case is used to illustrate our approach.
Software Cost Reduction

Software Cost reduction (SCR) is a set of techniques for designing software systems developed by David Parnas and researchers from the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) beginning in the late 1970s. A major goal of the original SCR research team was to evaluate the utility and scalability of software engineering principles by applying the principles to the reconstruction of software for a practical system, the Operational Flight Program (OFP) for the U.S. Navy's A-7 aircraft. The process of applying the principles produced a number of new techniques for software design, which were demonstrated in a requirements document and several software design documents for the A-7. Further research during the 1990s produced two formal models, the Four Variable Model and the SCR requirements model, and a set of software tools for analyzing SCR-style requirements documents. A central notion of SCR is that software should be designed using an idealized process called the “rational design process”. Although designing software using a perfectly rational process is impossible, software developers are more likely to produce a rational design if they follow a rational process rather than if they proceed on an ad hoc basis. In the rational design process, software is designed and implemented in stages. At each stage, a work product, such as a requirements document or a design document, is produced. Each work product is associated with criteria that the work product must satisfy and a description of the information that the work product contains. This article focuses on the SCR techniques for constructing and evaluating the requirements document, the work product built during the requirements stage of software development, and the aspect of SCR that has received significant attention during both the early and the more recent research. It also briefly describes, and gives pointers to, the SCR approach to software design, focusing on the design and documentation of the module structure, the module interfaces, and the uses hierarchy. Keywords: A-7 requirements; approaches; four variable model; tools; requirement model; software design; tools; uses hierarchy
Central Venous Dialysis Catheters: Catheter‐Associated Infection

Tunneled dialysis catheters (TDC) are extensively used for long-term venous hemodialysis access and their use is frequently associated with infectious complications. Catheter-related bacteremia (CRB) is the most common and important infection associated with TDC use and may be caused by a wide variety of Gram-positive or Gram-negative organisms. Prevention of CRB can be difficult despite use of rigorous infection-control techniques for catheter insertion and access. A number of antibacterial catheter-packing solutions hold promise for reduction of CRB. Treatment of CRB with antibiotics alone yields poor results and may increase the risk for other infectious complications, especially endocarditis. In selected cases where initial infection control can be achieved with antibiotics, guidewire exchange of the TDC results in cure rates equivalent to those of TDC removal and subsequent replacement. Dialysis programs should monitor TDC infections with attention to incidence, bacteriology, and outcomes.