cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Incremental process support for code reengineering

Reengineering a large code base can be a monumental task, and the situation becomes even worse if the code is concomitantly being modified. Since January 1992, we have been using the MARVEL process centered environment (PCE) for all of our software development, and are currently using it to develop the Oz PCE (MARVEL's successor). Towards this effort, we are reengineering Oz's code base to isolate the process engine, transaction manager, and object management system as separate components that can be used in arbitrary systems. In this paper, we show how a PCE can assist teams of users in carrying out code reengineering while allowing them to continue their normal code development. The key features to this approach are its incremental nature and the ability of the PCE to automate most of the tasks necessary to maintain the consistency of the code base. >
Networks to Nerdistan: The Role of Labor Market Intermediaries in the Entry-level IT Labor Market

Although networks have long governed economic relations, they assume even more importance in a knowledge-based economy. Yet, some argue that because of the lack of social networks and human capital, some groups are permanently ‘switched off’ the networks of the global economy. Evidence presented in this article suggests that instead there is latent potential for access to the network, due to the rise of networked community-based organizations and the increasing accessibility of technology. Based on surveys and in-depth interviews with almost 700 workers and training providers, I show how the switched off are entering jobs in information technology through network ties and the acquisition of soft skills, or communication and interaction skills. Although community-based training providers are best positioned to help disadvantaged jobseekers enter the network society, changes in the US workforce development system are reinforcing network exclusivity, rather than facilitating this upward mobility.
Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) Studies on the Interactions of Carotenoids and Their Binding Proteins

The xanthophyll carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin constitute the major carotenoids of the macular pigment in the human retina where they are thought to act in part to prevent light induced oxidative damage associated with age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The highly selective uptake of these pigments is mediated by specific carotenoid-binding proteins (GSTP1 and StARD3) recently identified in our laboratory. Carotenoids are hydrophobic in nature, so we first systematically optimized carotenoid preparations that are nano-dispersed in aqueous buffers, and then we used a new-generation surface plasmon resonance (SPR) protocol called FastStep™, which is significantly faster than conventional SPR assays. We have explored carotenoid-binding interactions of five proteins: human serum albumin (HSA), β-lactoglobulin (LG), steroidogenic acute regulatory domain proteins (StARD1, StARD3) and glutathione S- transferase Pi isoform (GSTP1). HSA and LG showed relatively weak interaction with carotenoids (K(D)>1 μM). GSTP1 evidenced high affinity and specificity towards zeaxanthin and meso-zeaxanthin with K(D) values 0.14±0.02 μM and 0.17±0.02 μM, respectively. StARD3 expressed a relative high specificity towards lutein with a K(D) value of 0.59±0.03 μM, whereas StARD1 exhibited a relatively low selectivity and affinity (K(D)>1 μM) towards the various carotenoids tested.
SymDrive: testing drivers without devices

Device-driver development and testing is a complex and error-prone undertaking. For example, testing error-handling code requires simulating faulty inputs from the device. A single driver may support dozens of devices, and a developer may not have access to any of them. Consequently, many Linux driver patches include the comment "compile tested only."SymDrive is a system for testing Linux and FreeBSD drivers without their devices present. The system uses symbolic execution to remove the need for hardware, and extends past tools with three new features. First, SymDrive uses static-analysis and source-to-source transformation to greatly reduce the effort of testing a new driver. Second, SymDrive checkers are ordinary C code and execute in the kernel, where they have full access to kernel and driver state. Finally, SymDrive provides an execution-tracing tool to identify how a patch changes I/O to the device and to compare device-driver implementations. In applying SymDrive to 21 Linux drivers and 5 FreeBSD drivers, we found 39 bugs.
How micro-phase separation alters the heating rate effects on globular protein gelation.

UNLABELLED This study was conducted to determine how the combination of heating rate and pH can be used to alter viscoelastic properties and microstructure of egg white protein and whey protein isolate gels. Protein solutions (1% to 7% w/v protein, pH 3.0 to 8.5) were heated using a range of heating rates (0.2 to 60 °C/min) to achieve a final temperature of 80 °C. The gelation process and viscoelastic properties of formed gels were evaluated using small strain rheology. Single phase or micro-phase separated solution conditions were determined by confocal laser scanning microscopy. In the single phase region, gels prepared by the faster heating rates had the lowest rigidity at 80 °C; however, a common G' was achieved after holding for 4 h at 80 °C . On the other hand, under micro-phase separation conditions, faster heating rates allowed phase separated particles to be frozen in the network prior to precipitation. Thus, gels produced by slower heating rates had lower rigidities than gels produced by faster heating rates. The effect of heating rate appears to depend on if the solution is under single phase or micro-phase separated conditions. PRACTICAL APPLICATION The effect of heating rate and/or time on protein gel firmness can be explained based on protein charge. When proteins have a high net negative charge and form soluble aggregates, there is no heating rate effect and gels with equal firmness will be formed if given enough time. In contrast, when electrostatic repulsion is low, there is a competition between protein precipitation and gel formation; thus, a faster heating rate produces a firmer gel.
The induction and early events of germination in the zoospore of Blastocladiella emersonii.

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses some aspects of the kinetics of encystment. Spores induced with low temperatures and sulfonic acid azo dyes display similar kinetics, while spores induced with potassium chloride (KCl) show a much greater mean time of encystment. The evidence suggests that the difference in behavior must result from an increase in the number and/or the average rates of encystment processes that ensue after triggering. When the reason for this difference is uncovered, an important aspect of encystment is resolved. But in the meantime, a comparison of the similarities among the induction methods may also be fruitful.
Pressure-Sensitive Adhesion of Isopropyl-Azodicarboxylate-Modified Polybutadiene to Glass

Abstract The pressure-sensitive adhesion (i.e., adhesive tack) of isopropyl azodicarboxylate modified polybutadiene contacted with glass has been studied using a 180°-peel geometry. Fracture energies were studied as a function of IAD content, contact time, and peeling rate. Additionally, the creep compliance J was measured and related to the peeling response. At low levels of modification, J decreases with increasing IAD content; however, J increases at intermediate IAD levels—indicative of softening in the material. This is thought to be due, at least in part, to a reduction in the entanglement density and is a condition that favors wetting. For example, the elastomer with 33% IAD achieves 46% of its equilibrium bond strength to glass after 2 min of contact while, after the same tc, IAD-29 (with its lower compliance) attains only 26% of its ultimate bond strength. In some circumstances, there is an interesting decrease in the fracture energy as contact time is increased. This is accompanied by a change i...
Strategic and Technical Considerations for the Endovascular Embolization of Intracranial Meningiomas

Endovascular embolization is a frequently used adjunct to operative resection of meningiomas. Embolization may decrease intraoperative blood loss, operative time, and surgical difficulty associated with resection. The specific clinical applications of this treatment have not been defined clearly. Procedural indications, preferred embolic agent, and latency until tumor resection all differ across operators. It is clear that strategic patient selection, comprehensive anatomic understanding, and sound operative technique are critical to the success of the embolization procedure. This article reviews the management and technical considerations associated with preoperative meningioma embolization.
Estimating the Connection between Location and Property Value

Executive Summary. A hedonic regression model of rent values that is used to assess property values in Portland, Oregon, an urban area that has multi-centric rent gradients, is presented. The data ...
Targeted Agents: Management of Dermatologic Toxicities

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors are widely used in the treatment of many cancers, and the cutaneous toxicity profile associated with these agents has become prominent. In fact, dermatologic side effects have also been reported with other targeted agents, including both BRAF and mTOR inhibitors. During her presentation at the NCCN 19th Annual Conference, Dr. Barbara Burtness reviewed the array of skin complications caused by many targeted therapies, focusing on the more common culprits, the role of prophylactic versus reactive management strategies, the need to be attentive to potential infections, the importance of mastering local measures to improve quality of life and cosmetic issues, the therapeutic mainstays (oral and topical antibiotics and topical steroids), and the preference of improving these cutaneous complications over suspending anticancer treatment.
Ground-state structural dynamics in doped and undoped polyaniline films probed by two-dimensional infrared vibrational echo spectroscopy.

Two-dimensional infrared vibrational echo spectroscopy (2D-IR VES) provides information about the structural dynamics occurring on the ultrafast time scale, a temporal regime that is comparable to that of charge-hopping events in conducting polymer films. In this study, 2D-IR VES is used to study polyaniline (PANI) thin films in three states of varying conductivity: emeraldine base (PANI-EB, semiconducting), emeraldine salt (PANI-ES) doped with dinonylnaphthalene sulfonic acid (conductive), and PANI-ES doped with camphor sulfonic acid (highly conductive). UV−visible and FTIR spectroscopies were used to characterize the static electronic and structural differences between these materials, and then these results were compared to the dynamical results from 2D-IR VES. The electronic ground state ultrafast dynamics for the PANI-EB reveal very fast motions that are not present in either of the PANI-ES samples. Despite differences in conductivity, no significant dynamical differences are observed for the films p...
PROLONGED QRS, MECHANICAL DYSSYNCHRONY AND VENTRICULAR DILATION ARE ASSOCIATED WITH VENTRICULAR ARRHYTHMIAS LATE AFTER THE FONTAN OPERATION

Ventricular tachycardia (VT) and sudden cardiac death are not uncommon after the Fontan operation; however their association with ventricular function, dyssynchrony, and QRS duration has not been explored. Subjects with the Fontan circulation and a CMR were retrospectively identified. Primary
Descriptions of the Larvae of Tetraclita Rubescens and Megabalanus Californicus with a Comparison of the Common Barnacle Larvae of the Central California Coast

ABSTRACT The larvae of Tetraclita rubescens and Megabalanus californicus are described for the first time. In addition, comparisons are made with other common, mostly intertidal, barnacle species on the central California coast, including Chthamalus dalli, Chthamalus fissus, Pollicipes polymerus, Balanus glandula, Balanus crenatus, Balanus nubilus, Balanus improvisus, Balanus amphitrite amphitrite, and Semibalanus cariosus. Differences in size, setation of appendages, and body forms are used to distinguish species and larval stages.
Oviposition choices by a pre-dispersal seed predator (Hylemya sp.) : I. Correspondence with hummingbird pollinators, and the role of plant size, density and floral morphology.

Pre-dispersal seed predators must choose proper hosts and flowers on those hosts that have a high probability of setting seed. In this study, I documented that flowers of Ipomopsis aggregata (Polemoniaceae) chosen by a pre-dispersal seed predator (Anthomyiidae: Hylemya sp.) had a higher probability of seed set than flowers the fly did not choose. I experimentally tested the hypothesis that Hylemya uses a post-fertilization cue in making oviposition choices. I found no evidence for this hypothesis.
STOCHASTIC ANALYSIS OF OFFSHORE CURRENTS

This paper presents the results of stochastic analysis of offshore currents. The purpose of this study is to clarify the stochastic properties of offshore currents, and to develop a method to predict the magnitude of the extreme currents and their direction from measured data. Statistical analysis as well as spectral analysis are carried out on current velocities measured over a period of several months off Newfoundland, Canada. The effect of water depth on the statistical characteristics of current velocity is also clarified. The extreme current velocity expected to occur in 4- months and its direction are estimated by applying order statistics and the results are compared with the measured data.
Angiopoietin-Like 4 (Angptl4) in MCNS

Minimal-change nephrotic syndrome (MCNS) affects children and adults, with onset most commonly seen between ages 2 and 10 years. The cardinal characteristics of this disease include massive and selective proteinuria, normal-appearing glomeruli on light microscopy, diffuse effacement of podocyte foot processes on electron microscopy, loss of glomerular basement membrane charge, glucocorticoid sensitivity, and explosive onset of edema. Recent progress in this field suggests that secretion of the glycoprotein angiopoietin-like 4 (Angptl4) from podocytes in human and experimental MCNS can explain most of these features. Disease-related podocyte Angptl4 upregulation is highly glucocorticoid sensitive in vivo, and a podocyte-specific Angptl4 overexpressing transgenic rat reproduces most of these features. There are two different forms of podocyte-secreted Angptl4: a high isoelectric point (pI) form exclusively overproduced by podocytes in disease states that lacks attachment of sialic acid residues (hyposialylated Angptl4) and a neutral-pI sialylated form, secreted also by the heart, adipose tissue, and skeletal muscle. Hyposialylated Angptl4 is directly implicated in the pathogenesis of proteinuria in MCNS, and conversion of this form into sialylated Angptl4 using sialic acid precursor in vivo reduces proteinuria. Sialylated circulating Angptl4 has anti-proteinuric effects but causes hypertriglyceridemia in nephrotic states. Conversion of hyposialylated Angptl4 into sialylated protein using sialic acid precursors represents the next-generation treatment of MCNS.
Do Moderate Voters Weigh Candidates’ Ideologies? Voters’ Decision Rules in the 2010 Congressional Elections

Models of voting behavior typically specify that all voters employ identical criteria to evaluate candidates. We argue that moderate voters weigh candidates’ policy/ideological positions far less than non-moderate voters, and we report analyses of survey data from the 2010 Cooperative Congressional Election Study that substantiate these arguments. Across a wide range of models and measurement strategies, we find consistent evidence that liberal and conservative voters are substantially more responsive to candidate ideology than more centrist voters. Simply put, moderate voters appear qualitatively different from liberals and conservatives, a finding that has important implications for candidate strategies and for political representation.
Health-related quality of life, physical activity, and sedentary behavior of adults with visual impairments

AbstractPurpose: Research suggests that physical activity and sedentary behaviors can impact one’s health-related quality of life (HRQoL). However, little is known about the impact that these behaviors can have on the HRQoL of those with visual impairments. Therefore, the primary purpose of this study was to determine the associations of physical activity and sedentary behavior with HRQoL among a sample of adults with visual impairments.Method: Individuals with visual impairments were invited via email to complete three questionnaires: (a) the international physical activity questionnaire-short form, (b) the Rasch-revised versions of the World Health Organization Quality of Life instrument with the Level of Independence subscale, and (c) a demographic questionnaire. Eighty participants (Mage = 47.5) provided usable surveys for analyses.Results: The results demonstrated that physical activity significantly predicted HRQoL (F(2,79) = 3.508, p = .035, R2Adjusted=.060), yet, sedentary behavior did not (F(2,79...
Invariants of Walker and Lescop

The Casson invariant, originally defined for integral homology 3-spheres, was extended by Walker [302] to rational homology 3-spheres. Partial extensions were also proposed by Boyer and Lines [35] and Boyer and Nicas [36]. Walker defined his invariant by extending Casson’s SU(2) intersection theory to include reducible representations, which arise as long as the first integral homology of the rational homology sphere does not vanish. Most remarkably, Walker’s invariant also admits a purely combinatorial definition in terms of surgery presentations. This definition was later generalized by Lescop [182], who defined an invariant for all oriented closed 3-manifolds thus extending both Casson’s and Walker’s invariants.
Ampi-109, a novel Vitamin D analog for androgen-insensitive prostate and renal cancer

Rahul Ray is a Professor of Medicine at Boston University School of Medicine. He is an authority in the structure-function and cancer therapeutic areas of the vitamin D endocrine system. He has received numerous extra-mural grants and contracts for his research and four awarded patents. He has served as a member in several National Institutes of Health Study Sections and he is an editorial board member of steroid hormone-related journals. Ampi-109, a novel Vitamin D analog for androgen-insensitive prostate and renal cancer
Landscape of Kidney Transplantation in Patients With Compensated Liver Disease: Results of a Survey of Transplant Surgeons in the United States

Abstract Background The therapeutic options that provide the best long-term outcome for patients who have a combination of end-stage renal disease and compensated cirrhosis are unknown. Methods Given the paucity of data and the lack of clinical guidance in this area, a national survey was conducted in the form of an e-mail–based questionnaire addressed to the transplantation surgeons registered with the American Society of Transplant Surgeons. Results Of the 818 surgeons invited to participate in the survey, 167 (20%) responded. Twenty-one (12.6%) respondents indicated that their program performed 100 kidney transplantations per year. The majority, 116 (69.5%), believed that compensated cirrhotic patients with end-stage renal disease could be considered for renal transplantation alone, 45 (26.9%) respondents believed that compensated cirrhotic patients on dialysis could only be considered for simultaneous liver-kidney transplantation, and 6 (3.6%) believed that this population of patients was not suitable for kidney transplantation alone. Conclusions Our findings suggest that there is a substantial heterogeneity of opinion among transplantation surgeons towards transplantation options for compensated cirrhotic patients. Further data is needed to define best practices and clinical guidelines.
642. NDRG4 Is a Novel Therapeutic Target in Malignant Meningioma and Its Loss Induces Apoptosis

NDRG4 is a member of the N-Myc downstream regulated gene family belonging to the alpha/beta hydrolase super family. The roles of NDRG4 in meningioma tumor development have not previously been evaluated. Effective local therapies include surgery and radiation, but there is a need for novel molecular targets to improve survival and reduce morbidity for meningioma patients. We have recently identified the NDRG4 protein as being overexpressed in aggressive meningiomas. We have demonstrated that NDRG4 downregulation results in decreased cell proliferation, migration and invasive properties. In follow up to our prior studies on the effects of NDRG4 gene silencing in IOMM-Lee and CH-157 MN meningioma cell lines; here we demonstrate that the predominant form of cell death is apoptosis, utilizing Annexin-V flow cytometry assay. We show that apoptosis caused by upregulation of p53, phosphorylation of p53 at ser 15, Bax activation and downregulation of Bcl-2 and BcL-xL along with cytochrome c release from mitochondria and execution of caspases after depletion of NDRG4. The proapoptotic effect of p53 was verified by the results in which a small molecule compound PFT-α, an inhibitor of p53 phosphorylation, is greatly protected against targeting NDRG4 induced apoptosis. Sub-cellular distribution of Bax and cytochrome c indicated mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis. In addition, we carried out the fluorescence cytohemcial analysis to confirm the mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis by changes in mitochondrial membrane potential (Ym), using JC-1 dye. These findings bring novel insight to the roles of NDRG4 in meningioma tumor cell progression. We hypothesized that NDRG4 has played crucial role in regulating the p53 by its molecular interactions. Binding of NDRG4 with p53 was confirmed by Immunoprecipitation and double Immunocolocalization was verified by confocal microscopy. In conclusion, we show that NDRG4 is predominantly a cytosolic protein expressed in response to cell proliferation and demonstrated the suppression of NDRG4 induces the apoptosis through p53 activated and mitochondrial mediated apoptotic pathway. This therapeutic strategy may have promise in the management of meningiomas.
Perfluoroalkyl acids-induced liver steatosis: Effects on genes controlling lipid homeostasis

Persistent presence of perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) in the environment is due to their extensive use in industrial and consumer products, and their slow decay. Biochemical tests in rodent demonstrated that these chemicals are potent modifiers of lipid metabolism and cause hepatocellular steatosis. However, the molecular mechanism of PFAAs interference with lipid metabolism remains to be elucidated. Currently, two major hypotheses are that PFAAs interfere with mitochondrial beta-oxidation of fatty acids and/or they affect the transcriptional activity of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα) in liver. To determine the ability of structurally-diverse PFAAs to cause steatosis, as well as to understand the underlying molecular mechanisms, wild-type (WT) and PPARα-null mice were treated with perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA), or perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHxS), by oral gavage for 7days, and their effects were compared to that of PPARα agonist WY-14643 (WY), which does not cause steatosis. Increases in liver weight and cell size, and decreases in DNA content per mg of liver, were observed for all compounds in WT mice, and were also seen in PPARα-null mice for PFOA, PFNA, and PFHxS, but not for WY. In Oil Red O stained sections, WT liver showed increased lipid accumulation in all treatment groups, whereas in PPARα-null livers, accumulation was observed after PFNA and PFHxS treatment, adding to the burden of steatosis observed in control (untreated) PPARα-null mice. Liver triglyceride (TG) levels were elevated in WT mice by all PFAAs and in PPARα-null mice only by PFNA. In vitro β-oxidation of palmitoyl carnitine by isolated rat liver mitochondria was not inhibited by any of the 7 PFAAs tested. Likewise, neither PFOA nor PFOS inhibited palmitate oxidation by HepG2/C3A human liver cell cultures. Microarray analysis of livers from PFAAs-treated mice indicated that the PFAAs induce the expression of the lipid catabolism genes, as well as those involved in fatty acid and triglyceride synthesis, in WT mice and, to a lesser extent, in PPARα-null mice. These results indicate that most of the PFAAs increase liver TG load and promote steatosis in mice We hypothesize that PFAAs increase steatosis because the balance of fatty acid accumulation/synthesis and oxidation is disrupted to favor accumulation.
In Vivo Effects of Long-Term Cigarette Smoke Exposure on Mammary Tissue in Mice.

Cigarette smoking is the leading cause of preventable death worldwide and has been linked to the development and progression of cancer. Many cohort studies have described the link between patients with breast cancer and those with long-term smoking history. Despite the claim of correlation, the mechanism by which cigarette smoke alters normal breast epithelial cells and stroma and contributes to tumor cell growth remains undefined. To investigate whether cigarette smoke promotes ductal epithelial cell hyperplasia by stimulating stromal endothelial cell proliferation, we exposed mice to cigarette smoke for 6 months. We observed epithelial proliferation, increased fibrosis, increased vascularity, and mast cell infiltration. This is the first study to look at the in vivo changes in the breast after long-term cigarette smoke exposure and provides a novel insight to understanding how cigarette smoke contributes to early changes that may contribute to tumor formation and progression. In conclusion, this study suggests that cigarette smoke modulates key stromal-epithelial interactions to support increased angiogenesis, desmoplasia, and abnormal ductal epithelial cell growth.
Template-free and low temperature CVD synthesis of vertically aligned 1-D ZnO nanostructures for photovoltaic devices by precursor oxidation protection

Zinc oxide (ZnO) is a crystalline material with diverse morphology, large bandgap and high visible light transparency. All of these characteristics make ZnO a suitable material for applications in optical devices such as photovoltaic cells and photodiodes. Regarding photovoltaic applications, it is necessary to grow ZnO on a transparent conducting oxide (TCO) substrate. In this work, vertically aligned 1-dimensional ZnO have been synthesized on a TCO substrate through chemical vapor deposition (CVD). Although ZnO is capable of being synthesized at lower temperatures through the use of Zn powder precursor, oxidation of precursor remains a significant limiting factor to control dimensional characteristics of the synthesized product. In our work we have developed a method by which ZnO is synthesized under lower temperatures through the prevention of precursor oxidation and control of Zn vapor fluid dynamics. Partial pressure of Zn vapor—a significant factor in the morphology and quality of product—is controlled and maintained during growth. The morphology and crystal structure of the synthesized ZnO is characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and x-ray diffraction (XRD). We also demonstrate the fabrication of dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) with synthesized 1-dimensional ZnO, as a photoelectrode, and compare the photovoltaic characteristics of two devices fabricated under same conditions, except for the photoelectrode utilized.
An Instantaneously Triggered Short-Circuit Protection Architecture for Boost Switching DC/DC Converters

This paper presents a protection circuit architecture that helps us to reduce the chances of damages in a boost switching converter due to fault conditions of output short-to-ground or power-switch short-circuits. Those two short-circuit faults can cause the inductor current to run away and result in damages. The proposed protection circuit can detect those two fault conditions within a few microseconds and then isolate the converter from its power supply. The fault detection is implemented by sensing the voltage drop across the primary inductor in a 1:1 coupled transformer which replaces the single-winding inductor in a boost converter. If a short-circuit fault happens at either the output load or at the power switch, the secondary inductor will shoot current to turn off a pass PMOSFET, which disconnects the primary inductor from the input supply. The protection circuit was built on the top of a commercial boost converter and was verified under short-circuit faults over a wide load current range. The proposed protection structure effectively reduced the inductor current overshoot during short-circuit event at the expenses of 1.2% drop of the peak efficiency during normal operation.
The Effect of Bisphosphonates on the Clinical and Radiographic Outcomes of Distal Radius Fractures in Women.

Purpose To compare clinical and radiographic outcomes of distal radius fractures (DRF) treated with nonsurgical management in female postmenopausal patients receiving bisphosphonate (BP) therapy at the time of injury with those not receiving BP therapy. Methods We prospectively enrolled 33 female postmenopausal patients with 35 DRF between December 2010 and January 2014 at 2 Level I tertiary care centers. Eleven patients with 12 DRF were currently receiving BP at the time of injury (BP group) and were compared with 22 controls with 23 DRF (CONT group) who were not receiving BP at the time of injury. All were postmenopausal women with fragility fractures managed nonsurgically. Primary outcomes were radiographic healing measured by the Radius Union Scoring System (RUSS) score and clinical and functional outcomes. Radiographs, range of motion, pinch and grip strength, Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation scores, and Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand scores were determined at 6, 9, and 12 weeks and 1 year from time of injury and compared between groups. Results The BP and CONT groups were similar in terms of age, comorbidities, and fracture severity. Both groups had progressively improving RUSS scores from the time of injury throughout subsequent evaluation, and all patients achieved radiographic union. Fracture healing was similar in both groups at 6, 9, and 12 weeks after injury. The RUSS scores were slightly better in the CONT group at 1 year. There were no differences in wrist range of motion, pinch, grip, Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation, or Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand scores at any time point after injury. Conclusions Patients receiving BP at the time of DRF had clinical outcomes similar to those not receiving antiresorptive treatment. Although there was a small difference in RUSS scores at 1 year after injury, this was not clinically relevant and all fractures united in a similar time frame with no healing complications. These results suggest that BP may be continued throughout nonsurgical management of DRF without detrimental effects on healing or function. Type of study/level of evidence Prognostic II.
Differences in Emotion Dysregulation and Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety among Illicit Substance Users and Nonusers.

Background: Illicit substance users may rely on mind-altering substances to regulate affect, especially when mental health symptoms are present.Objectives: In light of the prevalence of illicit sub...
Testing group dynamics with a virtual partner to increase physical activity motivation

Abstract Purpose The Kohler group dynamic motivation effect capitalizes on group interdependence to motivate greater effort for lower ability members (when the outcome is dependent on the weaker member). This field study applied the Kohler group dynamic in a mobile app with a software-generated partner (SGP), for the first time, to motivate adults to persist with moderate intensity exercise. This study also explored a novel application of interpersonal synchrony during a walk warm-up period to boost perceptions of interpersonal connectedness with the SGP. Methods Community adults were randomized to one of three conditions to walk with the app in their environment of choice for 3 weeks: no-partner individual control (IC); more capable SGP; synchronous more capable SGP (syncSGP). Results Non-statistically significant differences for mean minutes of walking favored the syncSGP over IC walkers with an effect size (d = 0.47) comparable in magnitude to other recent Kohler effect exercise lab studies using SGPs. Conclusion Group persistence differences and trends appear to provide support for this innovative application of a physical activity group dynamics motivational tool with community adults in free-living environments.
Amyloid-β Transmissibility

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common type of dementia in the elderly population. This disorder is histopathologically characterized by the presence of cerebral deposits of fibrillar aggregates consisting of amyloid-β protein (Aβ). Aβ aggregates have been characterized in detail, placing them as the main factors responsible for the deleterious clinical features observed in this disease. Interestingly, protein misfolding and aggregation are the predominant pathological events in several other diseases known as protein misfolding disorders (PMDs). PMDs include AD, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, type-2 diabetes and Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathies, or prion diseases, among others. Prion diseases are a group of disorders that can be transmitted by a proteinaceous infectious material termed prion. Compelling studies have demonstrated the infectious properties of misfolded prion aggregates that replicate following a seeding-nucleation mechanism. Recent experiments performed in animal models of diverse PMDs have shown that misfolded aggregates can induce the disease process by a prion-like mechanism, revealing a potential infectious origin for some of these diseases. In this chapter, we will review the recent studies showing that AD-like pathology can be induced in a similar way to prion diseases.
Contrasting the effects of harmonious and obsessive passion for religion on stress and drinking: Give me that old time religion … and a beer

Research has established two types of passion (i.e., harmonious and obsessive) for several activities, behaviors, and relationships (Vallerand & Houlfourt, 2003). Harmonious passion is characterized by an autonomous orientation toward an activity, while obsessive passion is characterized by a more controlled orientation toward an activity. Similar but not congruent conceptualizations of approaches to religion have been explored. Moreover, the preponderance of research suggests that religiousness is associated with decreased problematic alcohol use. However, little research has been done into contrasting approaches to religious devotion. We explored harmonious and obsessive passion for religious beliefs and practices and their association with alcohol use and alcohol-related problems. Perceived stress and satisfaction with life were examined as mediators. Participants included 707 undergraduate students (54.8% female) from a large southwestern university who were recruited as a part of a larger alcohol-related intervention trial. Data were collected at three time points: baseline, 3-month follow-up, and 6-month follow-up, and were analyzed prospectively, with passion and mental health at time 1 and time 2 predicting alcohol outcomes at time 2 and time 3. The indirect effects of both obsessive passion and harmonious passion on alcohol problems through perceived stress were significant, and in opposite directions. Additionally, moderation analyses showed that both obsessive and harmonious passion for religion moderated the associations between perceived stress and drinking and between perceived stress and alcohol problems.
Whole-genome sequencing for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) outbreak investigation in a neonatal intensive care unit.

ObjectiveTo evaluate whole-genome sequencing (WGS) as a molecular typing tool for MRSA outbreak investigation.DesignInvestigation of MRSA colonization/infection in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) over 3 years (2014–2017).SettingSingle-center level IV NICU.PatientsNICU infants and healthcare workers (HCWs).MethodsInfants were screened for MRSA using a swab of the anterior nares, axilla, and groin, initially by targeted (ring) screening, and later by universal weekly screening. Clinical cultures were collected as indicated. HCWs were screened once using swabs of the anterior nares. MRSA isolates were typed using WGS with core-genome multilocus sequence typing (cgMLST) analysis and by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). Colonized and infected infants and HCWs were decolonized. Control strategies included reinforcement of hand hygiene, use of contact precautions, cohorting, enhanced environmental cleaning, and remodeling of the NICU.ResultsWe identified 64 MRSA-positive infants: 53 (83%) by screening and 11 (17%) by clinical cultures. Of 85 screened HCWs, 5 (6%) were MRSA positive. WGS of MRSA isolates identified 2 large clusters (WGS groups 1 and 2), 1 small cluster (WGS group 3), and 8 unrelated isolates. PFGE failed to distinguish WGS group 2 and 3 isolates. WGS groups 1 and 2 were codistributed over time. HCW MRSA isolates were primarily in WGS group 1. New infant MRSA cases declined after implementation of the control interventions.ConclusionWe identified 2 contemporaneous MRSA outbreaks alongside sporadic cases in a NICU. WGS was used to determine strain relatedness at a higher resolution than PFGE and was useful in guiding efforts to control MRSA transmission.
Portrayals of Romantic Deception to the Masses: An Analysis of Classic and Contemporary Arts, Modern Technologies, and Empirical Literature

As with most universal experiences, romantic deception has long been the inspiration for creative works, including literary classics and paintings that date back several centuries, as well as modern television, film, and literature. The dynamics of romantic deception have further evolved with recent developments in technology, such that modern communication outlets increase the opportunities for romantic deception. In this chapter, we discuss both classic and contemporary portrayals of romantic deception across literature, arts, and communication outlets and present an empirically informed analysis of romantic deception based on psychological research.
London penetration depth at zero temperature and near the superconducting transition

A simple relation is established between the zero-$T$ penetration depth $\ensuremath{\lambda}(0)$ and the slope of ${\ensuremath{\lambda}}^{\ensuremath{-}2}(T)$ near ${T}_{c}$, similar to Helfand-Werthamer's relation for ${H}_{c2}(0)$ and the slope of ${H}_{c2}(T)$ at ${T}_{c}$ for the isotropic $s$-wave case with nonmagnetic scattering [E. Helfand and N. R. Werthamer, Phys. Rev. 147, 288 (1966)]. When the scattering parameter $\ensuremath{\rho}=\ensuremath{\hbar}v/2\ensuremath{\pi}{T}_{c}\ensuremath{\ell}$ ($v$ is the Fermi velocity and $\ensuremath{\ell}$ is the mean free path) varies from 1 to 10, the coefficient of proportionality between ${\ensuremath{\lambda}}^{\ensuremath{-}2}(0)$ and ${T}_{c}{(d{\ensuremath{\lambda}}^{\ensuremath{-}2}/dT)}_{{T}_{c}}$ changes from 0.43 to 0.38. Combining this relation with the Rutgers thermodynamic identity, one can express $\ensuremath{\lambda}(0)$ in terms of the slope ${(d{H}_{c2}/dT)}_{{T}_{c}}$ and the density of states.
Varieties of Drunk Experience in Early Medieval South Asia

AbstractScholars of Indian cultural history have neglected the topic of alcohol and drinking, instead mostly emphasising a discourse of abstinence. Yet many Sanskrit technical and literary texts of...
Constitutionally Protected Free Speech

This case raises the question of whether a public school can lawfully remove a student from an extracurricular activity for her profanity, transmitted off school grounds on a Saturday to fellow stu...
Effective J -factors for Milky Way dwarf spheroidal galaxies with velocity-dependent annihilation

We calculate the effective $J$-factors, which determine the strength of indirect detection signals from dark matter annihilation, for 25 dwarf spheroidal galaxies (dSphs). We consider several well-motivated assumptions for the relative velocity dependence of the dark matter annihilation cross section: ${\ensuremath{\sigma}}_{A}v$: $s$-wave (velocity independent), $p$-wave (${\ensuremath{\sigma}}_{A}v\ensuremath{\propto}{v}^{2}$), $d$-wave (${\ensuremath{\sigma}}_{A}v\ensuremath{\propto}{v}^{4}$), and Sommerfeld-enhancement in the Coulomb limit (${\ensuremath{\sigma}}_{A}v\ensuremath{\propto}1/v$). As a result we provide the largest and most updated sample of $J$-factors for velocity-dependent annihilation models. For each scenario, we use Fermi-LAT gamma-ray data to constrain the annihilation cross section. Due to the assumptions made in our gamma-ray data analysis, our bounds are comparable to previous bounds on both the $p$-wave and Sommerfeld-enhanced cross sections using dSphs. Our bounds on the $d$-wave cross section are the first such bounds using indirect detection data.
Use of Navigated Ultrasonic Bone Cutting Tool for En Bloc Resection of Thoracic Chondrosarcoma: Technical Report

Background En bloc surgical resection with wide margins offers the best local control rates for chondrosarcoma of the spine. Objective To describe the surgical technique for en bloc resection of a large thoracic chondrosarcoma using image guidance for a complex osteotomy with an ultrasonic bone cutting device (Misonix, Farmingdale, New York). Methods A 2-stage procedure was performed for resection of a thoracic chondrosarcoma involving the T3-T7 vertebral bodies. During the first stage, a posterior approach, the ultrasonic bone cutter was precisely navigated to perform an intralaminar osteotomy as well as a multilevel split sagittal osteotomy through the vertebral bodies. In the second stage, a transthoracic approach was used to complete the en bloc resection of the specimen. Intraoperative frozen sections from the surgical margins were negative for tumor. Results The ultrasonic bone cutting device was navigated based on coregistration of the intraoperative computed tomography (CT) images and preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Real-time navigation using coregistered images enabled identification of tumor margins within the bone and adjacent soft tissue allowing precise execution of the intralaminar and multilevel split sagittal vertebral osteotomies. Surgical video demonstrates the utility of real-time navigation to properly identify the tumor margins and guide the ultrasonic bone cutting tool during the osteotomies. Conclusion We describe the use of image guidance to navigate an ultrasonic bone cutting tool for a complex en bloc resection of a multilevel thoracic spine chondrosarcoma.
Naturaleza, cultura y mundo de la vida. Algunas consideraciones ontológicas

In this paper I want to introduce and develop the concept of 風土 fūdo, or geo-cultural climate, an idea found in the work of the Japanese philosopher Watsuji Tetsurō. My claim will be that this concept can help us with two things. First, it can help us better understand the puzzling relationship between nature and artifice, i.e., nature and culture, and second, it can help us re-imagine the concept of nature in a way that holds out the possibility of a re-enchanted natural world.
Use of GNSS-Derived PWV for Predicting the Path of Typhoon: Case Studies of Soulik and Kongrey in 2018

AbstractThe progress of a typhoon can be investigated by analyzing the significant changes in precipitable water vapor (PWV) in the area of interest. In this study, PWV variations of two typhoons i...
Why Are Jobs Designed the Way They Are

In this paper we study job design. Will an organization plan precisely how the job is to be done ex ante, or ask workers to determine the process as they go? We first model this decision and predict complementarity between these job attributes: multitasking, discretion, skills, and interdependence of tasks. We argue that characteristics of the firm and industry (e.g., product and technology, organizational change) can explain observed patterns and trends in job design. We then use novel data on these job attributes to examine these issues. As predicted, job designs tend to be "coherent" across these characteristics within the same job. Job designs also tend to follow similar patterns across jobs in the same firm, and especially in the same establishment: when one job is optimized ex ante, others are more likely to be also. There is some evidence that firms may segregate different types of job designs across different establishments.
Associations of endogenous hormones with HDL novel metrics across the menopause transition: The SWAN HDL Study.

CONTEXT Novel metrics of HDL (subclasses, lipid content and function) may better characterize the anti-atherogenic features of HDL. In midlife women, changes in these metrics vary by time relative to the final menstrual period (FMP), supporting a contribution of menopause hormones estradiol (E2) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). OBJECTIVE To test associations of endogenous E2 and FSH with novel HDL metrics and to assess whether these associations vary by time relative to FMP. DESIGN Longitudinal analysis from the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation (SWAN) HDL study. SETTING Community-based cohort. PARTICIPANTS 463 women, baseline mean age 50.2 (2.7) years. EXPOSURES E2 and FSH. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES HDL cholesterol efflux capacity (HDL-CEC), HDL phospholipids (HDL-PL), HDL triglycerides (HDL-Tg), HDL-particles (HDL-P), HDL size, HDL-cholesterol (HDL-C). RESULTS In multivariable analyses, E2 was positively associated with HDL size, large HDL-P, HDL-CEC and HDL-Tg, but negatively with medium HDL-P, p-values<0.05. The positive association between E2 and HDL-Tg was stronger 2 years post FMP than before, interaction p-value=0.031. FSH was positively related to total and medium HDL-P, but negatively to HDL size, large HDL-P, and HDL-CEC per particle, p-values<0.05. Associations of higher FSH with greater total HDL-P and smaller HDL size were only evident at/after menopause, interaction p-values<0.05. CONCLUSIONS Some of the associations linking E2 and FSH with novel HDL metrics were vulnerable to time relative to menopause onset. Whether a late initiation of hormone therapy relative to menopause could have a detrimental effect on lipid content of HDL particles should be tested in the future.
Statistical Modeling and Inference for Social Science

1. Introduction 2. Descriptive statistics: data and information 3. Observable data and data-generating processes 4. Probability theory: basic properties of data-generating processes 5. Expectation and moments: summaries of data-generating processes 6. Probability and models: linking positive theories and data-generating processes 7. Sampling distributions: linking data-generating processes and observable data 8. Hypothesis testing: assessing claims about the data-generating process 9. Estimation: recovering properties of the data-generating process 10. Causal inference: inferring causation from correlation Afterword: statistical methods and empirical research.
Computer Architecture: A Quantitative Approach

This best-selling title, considered for over a decade to be essential reading for every serious student and practitioner of computer design, has been updated throughout to address the most important trends facing computer designers today. In this edition, the authors bring their trademark method of quantitative analysis not only to high-performance desktop machine design, but also to the design of embedded and server systems. They have illustrated their principles with designs from all three of these domains, including examples from consumer electronics, multimedia and Web technologies, and high-performance computing.