cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
STATISTICAL ISSUES IN ECOLOGICAL META‐ANALYSES

Meta-analysis is the use of statistical methods to summarize research findings across studies. Special statistical methods are usually needed for meta-analysis, both because effect-size indexes are typically highly heteroscedastic and because it is desirable to be able to distinguish between-study variance from within-study sampling-error variance. We outline a number of considerations related to choosing methods for the meta-analysis of ecological data, including the choice of parametric vs. resampling methods, reasons for conducting weighted analyses where possible, and comparisons fixed vs. mixed models in categorical and regression-type analyses.
Cholesterol-dependent cytolysins induce rapid release of mature IL-1β from murine macrophages in a NLRP3 inflammasome and cathepsin B-dependent manner

CDC are exotoxins secreted by many Gram-positive bacteria that bind cholesterol and oligomerize to form pores in eukaryotic cell membranes. We demonstrate that CDC TLO induces caspase-1 cleavage and the rapid release of IL-1beta from LPS-primed murine BMDM. IL-1beta secretion depends on functional toxin pore formation, as free cholesterol, which prevents TLO binding to cell membranes, blocks the cytokine release. Secretion of the mature forms of IL-1beta and caspase-1 occurs only at lower TLO doses, whereas at a higher concentration, cells release the biologically inactive proforms. IL-1beta release at a low TLO dose requires potassium efflux, calcium influx, and the activities of calcium-independent PLA(2), caspase-1, and cathepsin B. Additionally, mature IL-1beta release induced by a low TLO dose is dependent on the NLRP3 inflammasome, and pro-IL-1beta release induced by a high TLO dose occurs independently of NLRP3. These results further elucidate a mechanism of CDC-induced IL-1beta release and suggest a novel, immune evasion strategy in which IL-1beta-containing macrophages might release primarily inactive cytokine following exposure to high doses of these toxins.
Security and lifespan improve the performances of HV/LV transformer substations

The aim of this paper is to show the approach carried out by the HV/LV prefabricated substation department from Areva T&D to obtain a total-security and to minimise the environmental impact of these products at the end of their life, and this in accordance to the latest requirements from the standard of the HV/LKV prefabricated substation [1]. This approach necessitates the breakdown of each of the stages from design to commissioning of this products. These transformer substations, up to now considered as an enveloped enclosing electrical equipment, are involved in the revelation of the performance of the whole assembly. Throughout the paper various test results will confirm each hypothesis.
Lianas and Trees in a Liana Forest of Amazonian Bolivia1

Abstract The distribution of lianas (woody climbing plants) on trees in a lowland “liana forest” of northeastern Bolivia was clumped and varied with characteristics of individual trees and tree neighbors. In twenty-four 900-m2 square plots established to estimate tree (≥10 cm DBH [diameter at breast height]) and liana (≥2 cm DBH) densities and to count the number of lianas a tree carried, we estimated a mean of 65 tree species and 51 liana species per hectare. Mean tree density at the study site (564 trees/ha, SE = 23.7) was similar to other tropical sites, but mean liana density was much higher (2471 lianas/ha, SE = 104.3). Basal area of trees ≥10 cm DBH was low in Oquiriquia (19.2 m2/ha) in comparison to other tropical forests. Liana diversity, as expressed by the ratio of liana/tree species, was higher in this forest than in any other so far reported. Of trees ≥10 cm DBH, 86 percent carried lianas. Four tree species (Astrocaryum aculeatum, Euterpe precatoria, Xylopia sericea, and Astronium fraxinifoliu...
MICROSATELLITE ANALYSIS REVEALS MULTIPLE PATERNITY IN A POPULATION OF WILD PRONGHORN ANTELOPES (ANTILOCAPRA AMERICANA)

Although multiple paternity has been observed in various groups of mammals with litter sizes >1, it has not been documented in wild ungulate populations. With the use of DNA microsatellites, we investigated multiple paternity in pronghorn (Antilocapra americana) at the National Bison Range. Females in this population twin every year, and we were able to assign paternity to 25 sets of twins sired in 1999 and 2000, eleven (44%) of which were fathered by different males. Complex female mate choice is the most likely explanation for the observed pattern; however, sperm competition might contribute if a female has mated multiple times. This study represents the 1st reported example of multiple paternity in a natural ungulate population and indicates that some aspects of mammalian mating systems still are not fully understood.
Public buildings and private opportunities: some dynamics in Pompeii's urban development

Pompeii’s urban fabric presents a complicated palimpsest of construction, amalgamation, fission, renovation, and destruction, each being a reflection of the current social, economic and political realities at the moment the work was accomplished. Taken together, these data reveal how changing socio-cultural values gradually altered the face of the urban environment over time. However, while the overall transformation of the urban fabric is clearly a collective reflection of shifting concerns, it was really the actions of individuals that served to translate these trends into the physical reality that survives in the archaeological record. It was their particular decisions, undertaken in response to localised stimuli but expressing broad cultural trends and fashions, that served to produce, piece by piece, the complex and layered tapestry of the urban environment. Yet archaeological data only rarely provide the detail necessary to be able to identify the specific, small-scale motivations behind structural changes and the sequence of development, much less the ability to assess the positive or negative outcomes of particular decisions. Cases where it is possible to do so provide a rare window onto the localised, small-scale and often personal dynamics taking place wthin the broader process of urbanisation. Such cases emphasize the central role of individual actors in reacting to and reifying the forces of urban transformation through their private construction activities.
The Relationship Among U.S. Securities Laws, Cross-Listing Premia, and Trading Volumes

This paper studies the relationship among the U.S. securities laws, the premia that non-U.S. firms obtain by subjecting themselves to U.S. laws, overall U.S. share prices, and a cross-listed firm’s U.S. trading volume. I report three main sets of findings. First, for exchange-traded (NYSE and NASDAQ) cross-listed firms, pair premia and pair returns (premia and returns not explained by valuation and returns for similar non-cross-listed firms from the same home country) are strongly correlated with U.S. stock indices. There is a visually apparent “bubble” in pair premia for these firms, which peaks in early 2000, at the same time as U.S. stock indices. In contrast, pair premia and pair returns for cross-listed firms traded OTC or on PORTAL are not correlated with U.S. indices. The correlation between pair returns and U.S. indices only exists for firms with an above-median ratio of U.S.-based to total trading volume, and is triggered by cross-listing; there is no significant correlation before listing. Second, pair premia for level-23 firms, relative to premia for level-14 firms (“relative pair premia”), exist only in firms with above-median ratio of U.S. to total trading volume. Firms with below-median ratio of U.S. trading have no relative pair premia, regardless of listing level. Third, there are important time variations in relative pair premia. Relative pair premia decline significantly for all firms during the first 6 years after listing, and disappear after year six. The decay is most pronounced for firms with below-median ratio of U.S. trading volume. These results, taken together, weaken the law-based explanation for cross-listing premia (bonding to U.S. securities regime) and strengthen the non-law-based explanations (liquidity and visibility). They also suggest a behavioral explanation: U.S. investors treat high trading volume, exchange traded firms partly like U.S. firms, but treat OTC firm, Portal firms and low-trading-volume exchange-traded firms like other foreign firms.
Behavioral factors affecting exposure potential for household cleaning products

Behavioral experiments were performed on 342 subjects to determine whether behavior, which could affect the level of personal exposure, is exhibited in response to odors and labels which are commonly used for household chemicals. Potential for exposure was assessed by having subjects perform cleaning tasks presented as a product preference test, and noting the amount of cleaning product used, the time taken to complete the cleaning task, the product preference, and the exhibition of avoidance behavior. Product odor was found to affect product preference in the study with the pleasant odored product being preferred to the neutral and unpleasant products. Product odor was also found to influence the amount of product used; less of the odored products was used compared to the neutral product. The experiment also found that very few of the subjects in the study read the product labels, precluding analysis of the effect of such labels on product use. A postexperiment questionnaire on household cleaning product purchasing and use was administered to participants. The results indicate that significant gender differences exist. Women in the sample reported more frequent purchase and use of cleaning products resulting in an estimated potential exposure 40% greater than for the men in the sample. This finding is somewhat countered by the fact that women more frequently reported exposure avoidance behavior, such as using gloves. Additional significant gender differences were found in the stated importance of product qualities, such as odor and environmental quality. This study suggests the need for further research, in a more realistic use setting, on the impact of public education, labels, and product odor on preference, use, and exposure for different types of consumer products.
Preparation of Nicotyrine via Catalytic Dehydrogenation of Nicotine

Le catalyseur le plus selectif est le palladium sur un support d'oxyde de zirconium hydrate
Modelling and measuring the operability of interdependent systems and systems of systems: advances in methods and applications

Interdependency is an important consideration in managing systems and systems of systems. Included in this consideration is identifying, representing, and measuring the ripple effects of dependencies between systems and consumers who rely on their products and services. Anticipating these effects enables planners to minimise dependency risks that, if realised, can have cascading impacts on the ability of systems to deliver services. This paper presents advances in modelling interdependent systems by integrating two methods: functional dependency network analysis (FDNA) and the inoperability input-output model (IIM). Their integration enables hierarchical modelling of perturbations to systems at the physical or operational network levels. To highlight the insights gained by integrating FDNA and IIM, a simulated electric power system that feeds a large metropolitan area is presented. This simulated case demonstrates that other consequence measures, such as the inoperability metric presented herein, must be used in conjunction with monetary objectives to generate holistic prioritisation strategies.
Disruption of Boll Weevil Communication

In laboratory tests conducted in Mississippi in 1975, boll weevils, Anthonomus grandis Boheman, were confused when the atmosphere was saturated with grandlure (I, (+)- cis -2-isopropenyl-I-methylcyclobutaneethanol; II, (Z)-3,3-dimethyl-Δ1, B-cyclohexaneethanol; III, (Z)-3,3-dimethyl-Δ1, α cyclohexaneacetaldehyde; and IV, (E)-3,3-dimethyl-Δ1, α-cyclohexaneacetaldehyde). In field tests, grandlure did not cause confusion. Inhibition was indicated in field tests when the 2 aldehyde components were used alone.
Toxicity of Insecticides to the Aphid Predator Coccinella novemnotata

A laboratory bioassay study of 9 insecticides, phosalone, phosmet, carbaryl, Penncap M, dimethoate, azinphosmethyl, demeton, phosphamidon and endosulfan was conducted on adult Coccinella novemnotata (Herbst) to compare their contact toxicities. The study was conducted to determine if C. novemnotata can tolerate materials commonly used in the integrated pest management program on apple in Pennsylvania. Phosphamidon was the most toxic of the compounds tested. Endosulfan caused no mortality at any of the dosages tested. The other insecticides caused 70% mortality or less of adult C. novemnotata .
Shift-Time Polyelectrolyte Multilayer Assembly: Fast Film Growth and High Gas Barrier with Fewer Layers by Adjusting Deposition Time

In an effort to reduce deposition time and number of layers needed to achieve high gas barrier, multilayer films were deposited using 1 s exposures for the first four bilayers (BLs) and 1 min for subsequent dips. Thin-film assemblies of polyethylenimine (PEI) and poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) were deposited onto poly(ethylene terephthalate) [PET] using the layer-by-layer deposition process. Varying the exposure time of PET to polyelectrolyte solutions (i.e., dip time) significantly alters the growth rate of the multilayer thin films. The PEI/PAA system grows linearly with 1 s dip times and exponentially with longer times. Eight bilayers (650 nm) were required to achieve an undetectable oxygen transmission rate (<0.005 cm3/(m2·day)) using 1 min deposition steps, but this barrier was obtained with only 6 BLs (552 nm) using 1s deposition of the initial layers, reducing total deposition time by 73%. This “shift-time” concept makes layer-by-layer assembly much faster and more commercially feasible.
Intravenous basic fibroblast growth factor protects the lung but not mediastinal organs against radiation-induced apoptosis in vivo

PURPOSE We evaluated the therapeutic potential of intravenously injected basic fibroblast growth factor against the lethal syndromes associated with irradiation of intrathoracic organs and assessed whether such protection might be associated with inhibition of programmed cell death (apoptosis) in the exposed tissues. MATERIALS AND METHODS C3H/HeJ and C3H/scid mice received either whole-chest, mediastinal, or bilateral lung irradiation. Human recombinant basic fibroblast growth factor was injected intravenously at doses of 400 ng immediately before and after irradiation, and then at 1 hour and 2 hours later. Time-adjusted survival was calculated from the date of irradiation by the product-limit Kaplan-Meier method. Detection of apoptotic changes in paraffin sections was performed by the DNA terminal transferase nick-end translation method. RESULTS Basic fibroblast growth factor protected the lungs but not other intrathoracic organs against radiation-induced damage. When radiation was restricted to the lungs, the LD50/180 from radiation pneumonitis was 20.75 Gy and increased to 23.0 Gy in basic fibroblast growth factor-treated mice. When the whole thorax was irradiated, basic fibroblast growth factor partially protected against pneumonitis at the low range of radiation doses (< or = LD50/180), but failed to confer protection at higher doses, nor did it protect against lethal radiation esophagitis. Staining for the presence of apoptotic nuclei revealed time- and radiation dose-dependent development of apoptosis in endothelial cells of the pulmonary capillary network, endocardium, and mesothelial cells of the pleura and pericardium. Although basic fibroblast growth factor inhibited apoptosis in the microvascular endothelium and the endocardium, it had no effect on apoptosis in the serosal mesothelium of the pleura and pericardium. CONCLUSIONS Intravenous basic fibroblast growth factor protects against the apoptotic microvascular component of early-phase radiation pneumonitis but may have no effect on other elements of the primary damage produced by radiation in the lungs and other intrathoracic organs. Understanding the patterns and temporal evolution of radiation-induced apoptosis and basic fibroblast growth factor-mediated antiapoptotic effects in thoracic organs and tumors may offer opportunities for pharmacologic intervention in the radiotherapeutic management of primary and metastatic lung tumors.
Fischer–Tropsch Synthesis: Changes in Phase and Activity During Use

Four iron catalysts (unpromoted, K-promoted, Si-promoted and K,Si-promoted) were activated and subjected to common Fischer–Tropsch synthesis conditions. At increasing times on stream, samples were withdrawn from the continuously stirred tank reactor in the reactor wax while keeping the sample blanketed with an inert gas. Mossbauer spectra were recorded for various samples and the iron phases of the catalyst were compared to the catalytic activity. A simple model based on bulk composition of the catalyst is not related to the catalytic activity during the course of the run.
The Development of the Therapeutic Farm

The underlying approach to and development of the therapeutic farm community has been decidedly different in large degree between the United States and Canada, on the one hand, and Western European countries on the other. Initially premised on a “moral treatment” approach to the treatment of mental illness, most, if not all, of the currently functioning therapeutic farms in the United States and Canada continue to operate from this perspective. In contrast, therapeutic farms in Western European and Scandinavian countries, such as Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, and the United Kingdom, have variously been developed specifically as an intervention for individuals with severe mental illness (or others with varying mental or physical health needs) or as an alternative mechanism for the utilization of farms, with the provision of a therapeutic experience as a secondary goal. This chapter traces the development of the therapeutic farm community in both Europe and the United States from its origin as an asylum, meaning a place of refuge, to its current day forms.
The relationship between gas fill density and hohlraum drive performance at the National Ignition Facility

Indirect drive inertial confinement fusion experiments were conducted at the National Ignition Facility to investigate the performance of the hohlraum drive as a function of hohlraum gas fill density by imploding high-density-carbon capsules using a 2-shock laser pulse. Measurements characterized the backscatter behavior, the production of hot electrons, the motion and brightness of the laser spots on the hohlraum wall, and the efficiency of the hohlraum x-ray drive as a function of gas fill density ρgf between 0.03 mg/cc (“near vacuum”) and 1.6 mg/cc. For hohlraums with ρgf up to 0.85 mg/cc, very little stimulated Raman backscatter (SRS) was observed. For higher ρgf, significant SRS was produced and was observed to occur during the rise to peak laser power and throughout the main pulse. The efficiency with which laser energy absorbed by the hohlraum is converted into drive energy was measured to be the same for ρgf ≥ 0.6 mg/cc once the laser reached peak power. However, for the near vacuum case, the abso...
The Association of Glaucomatous Visual Field Loss and Balance.

Purpose To relate balance measures to visual field (VF) damage from glaucoma. Methods The OPAL kinematic system measured balance, as root mean square (RMS) sway, on 236 patients with suspect/diagnosed glaucoma. Balance was measured with feet shoulder width apart while standing on a firm/foam surface with eyes opened/closed (Instrumental Clinical Test of Sensory Integration and Balance [ICTSIB] conditions), and eyes open on a firm surface under feet together, semi-tandem, or tandem positions (standing balance conditions). Integrated VF (IVF) sensitivities were calculated by merging right and left eye 24-2 VF data. Results Mean age was 71 years (range, 57-93) and mean IVF sensitivity was 27.1 dB (normal = 31 dB). Lower IVF sensitivity was associated with greater RMS sway during eyes-open foam-surface testing (β = 0.23 z-score units/5 dB IVF sensitivity decrement, P = 0.001), but not during other ICTSIB conditions. Lower IVF sensitivity also was associated with greater RMS sway during feet together standing balance testing (0.10 z-score units/5 dB IVF sensitivity decrement, P = 0.049), but not during other standing balance conditions. Visual dependence of balance was lower in patients with worse IVF sensitivity (β = -21%/5 dB IVF sensitivity decrement, P Conclusions Balance was worse in glaucoma patients with greater VF damage under foam surface testing (designed to inhibit proprioceptive contributions to balance) as well as feet-together firm-surface conditions when somatosensory inputs were available. Translational relevance Good balance is essential to avoid unnecessary falls and patients with VF loss from glaucoma may be at higher risk of falls because of poor balance.
Corporate Blogging: The New Age PR Tool

Effective public relations can create and build up the image of an individual or an organisation or a nation. At the time of adverse publicity or when the organisation is under crisis an effective Public Relations can remove the "misunderstanding" and can create mutual understanding between the organisation and the public. Public relations, in the internal environment area, are directed to both the entire organization and to its individual departments and units. Internal communication and good internal communication channels are of paramount importance. From an internal perspective, organizations must be able to communicate effectively with its human resources in order to streamline organizational development. Finally, public relations must also be an important part of internal communication to promote planned change and development within the organization.
Predictive accuracy and factor structure of the Child Report of Posttraumatic Symptoms (CROPS) among adjudicated youth.

OBJECTIVE Trauma exposure and trauma symptom manifest have been associated with issues unique to the adjudicated youth population (Perkins, Calhoun, Glaser, & Kunemund, 2016), which necessitates accurate screening tools to facilitate appropriate allocation of resources (Briggs et al., 2013; Kerig, Moeddel, & Becker, 2011). The Child Report of Posttraumatic Symptoms (CROPS; Greenwald & Rubin, 1999) is a short and effective trauma assessment tool; however, predictive accuracy of the CROPS in classifying previous trauma exposure(s) as well as the factor structure of the CROPS has not been examined with this population. METHOD Retrospective data of 215 adjudicated youth (50.2% boys) were used to investigate the predictive accuracy of the CROPS in detecting previous trauma exposures. Further, researchers examined the factor structure of the CROPS to identify principle components that most strongly contributed to accurate classification. RESULTS Logistic regression analyses indicated moderate predictive accuracy (64.2%) in identifying reported trauma histories for the total sample and among both adjudicated males (61.1%) and females (66.4%). Principle components analyses revealed a stable 3-factor solution (accounting for 47% of total variance) and yielded a 14-item CROPS factor accounting for 32.3% of total variance. The 14-item factor demonstrated improved predictive accuracy over the full 26-item CROPS for the total sample (65.1%) and among adjudicated males (66.7%). CONCLUSION Overall findings provide moderate support for the utility of the CROPS in accurately identifying previous trauma exposure(s) among adjudicated youth and provide preliminary support for a 14-item version of the CROPS for screening for trauma symptoms in adjudicated youth. (PsycINFO Database Record
Propping Up Indian Health Care Through Medicaid

Medicaid expansion in Arizona has helped the Indian Health Service and tribally run health systems improve access.
Large scale Brownian dynamics of confined suspensions of rigid particles

We introduce methods for large-scale Brownian Dynamics (BD) simulation of many rigid particles of arbitrary shape suspended in a fluctuating fluid. Our method adds Brownian motion to the rigid multiblob method [F. Balboa Usabiaga et al., Commun. Appl. Math. Comput. Sci. 11(2), 217–296 (2016)] at a cost comparable to the cost of deterministic simulations. We demonstrate that we can efficiently generate deterministic and random displacements for many particles using preconditioned Krylov iterative methods, if kernel methods to efficiently compute the action of the Rotne-Prager-Yamakawa (RPY) mobility matrix and its “square” root are available for the given boundary conditions. These kernel operations can be computed with near linear scaling for periodic domains using the positively split Ewald method. Here we study particles partially confined by gravity above a no-slip bottom wall using a graphical processing unit implementation of the mobility matrix-vector product, combined with a preconditioned Lanczos ...
Examining Couple Functioning and Alcohol use Among Latino Couples: A Dyadic Data Analysis

Background: Prior research suggests that Latinos are at higher risk of alcohol use as compared to their counterparts (NSDUH, 2014). However, little work has been conducted to understand alcohol use...
Machine Learning in the Game of Breakthrough

Motivated by recent activity in using machine learning techniques to game programming we present a study of applying these techniques to the game of Breakthrough. Specifically, we show that by using temporal difference learning in an MCTS setting we are able to achieve results almost equal to those obtained by Wanderer, a very strong program with a highly tuned evaluation function. We also show that convolutional neural networks trained by using Wanderer as a provider of expert moves can produce a program much stronger than the original. Even in an environment with very slow execution speeds, we can achieve excellent results.
Application of Microelectrodes to the Study of Chemical Systems II

High speed voltammetry with microelectrodes allows the study of fast chemical reactions associated with heterogeneous electron transfer reactions. The rates of isomerization of 1, l’-dimethylbianthrone and dixanthylene have been measured both for the neutral compounds and their radical anions. Conformational change preceding the electrode reaction has been studied for trans- 1,2-diiodocyclohexane and the conformational equilibrium constant and rate constants have been determined. A fast isomerization occurs in the cation produced by oxidation of WCp*Me4. High speed cyclic voltammetry has allowed determination of the isomerization rate constant and, in conjunction with low scan rate experiments, it has been possible to evaluate the equilibrium constant for the isomerization. Finally, the rate constant for loss of nitrite from the anion radical formed on reduction of 2,3-dinitro-2,3-dimethylbutane has been measured and the overall process was shown to occur by an ECE-type mechanism.
Application of MATLAB: based solar dryer for cocoa drying

Solar energy is used directly for drying bulk of agriculture products in the country, especially cocoa beans. In this paper, research work identifies practical and technological ways by which the Crank-Nicolson equation is applied to heat equations using finite difference method to develop a green house type of solar dryer used in drying cocoa beans. The mathematical model of the extended Crank-Nicholson method for the general case of the 3-D (three-dimensional) conduction equation for green house effect type dryer has been derived and simulated using the Mathwork Matlab program. The performance of dryer was then determined, using drying cocoa beans from freshness with water content of about 50%,60% and 70% to dried beans with water content of about 7% of the weight. The results show that the green house effects dryer made of polythene sheeting produces temperatures of 500C to 600C and dries cocoa very well within seven days with water content of 50% to dried beans with 7% of water content of the weight. Compared to the traditional method of drying cocoa in Ghana, this method can be more technologically advance and better in producing the required dryness of cocoa beans in shorter time. Other advantages of this method include the more hygienic way of drying cocoa with less foreign materials. The overall aim of this research is to develop a MATLAB-based modeling and simulation to predict the air properties, air flow rate, equilibrium moisture content of the solar dryer technology for food crop drying especially cocoa and other cash crops.
The need for early markers in Alzheimer’s disease

Currently, there are no definitive early markers for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) or senile dementia of the Alzheimer type (SDAT). Nonetheless, there are some interesting marker candidates under evaluation. Several examples of candidate markers are considered in this review, including some biochemical, genetic, pharmacological, neuroimaging, and clinical measures. These examples are chosen to illustrate some aspects of an ideal marker, as well as the needs for such markers in different areas of AD and SDAT research and treatment.
Significance Measurements for Spatiotemporal Co-occurrences

An important aspect of data mining research is the determination of the interestingness of patterns. In classical frequent pattern mining tasks (e.g., shopping basket analysis), the main goal is to identify items (e.g., types of purchased goods) frequently appearing together in an itemset (e.g., shopping cart). Such analyses require an appropriate interestingness measure to assess the strength of relationships among different types of items and to eliminate the spurious itemsets. Measures, such as support, confidence, correlation, and entropy, have been extensively used in many frequent pattern mining algorithms. Spatial and spatiotemporal extensions of frequent pattern mining presents a similar challenge, where the choice of measures may lead to the discovery of inadvisable or uninteresting information depending on the context. Though, unlike traditional frequent pattern mining from binary features, in both spatial and spatiotemporal pattern mining tasks, the spatial or spatiotemporal relationships among items (or instances) are often not explicit. Therefore, it is considered necessary to initially transform the implicit spatial and temporal information to a transaction-like embodiment. In this chapter, we will explore the interestingness measures from the perspective of spatiotemporal co-occurrence relationships appearing among the evolving region trajectories.
Neural circuitry of dialects through social learning in Drosophila

Drosophila species communicate the presence of parasitoid wasps to naive individuals. This observation suggests a rudimentary Drosophila social structure. Communication between closely related species is efficient, while more distantly related species exhibit a dampened, partial communication. Partial communication between some species is enhanced following a period of cohabitation, suggesting that species-specific variations in communication "dialects" can be learned through social interactions. However, it remains unclear as to how the behavioral acquisition and how learning dialects is facilitated by distinct brain regions. In this study, we have identified six regions of the Drosophila brain essential for dialect learning, including the odorant receptor Or69a. Furthermore, we pinpoint subgroups of neurons such as motion detecting neurons in the optic lobe, layer 5 of the fan-shaped body, and the D glomerulus in the antennal lobe, where activation of each are necessary for dialect learning. These results demonstrate that Drosophila can display complex social behaviors with inputs to multiple regions of the Drosophila brain and unique subsets of neurons that must integrate olfactory, visual and motion cues.
Correlation of patient survival with clinical tumor measurements in malignant pleural mesothelioma.

To evaluate differences in the tumor response classifications that result from clinical measurements and to compare these response classifications with overall survival for patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM). One hundred thirty-one computed tomography (CT) scans were collected from 41 MPM patients enrolled in a clinical trial. Primary measurements had been acquired by clinical radiologists at a single center during routine clinical workflow, and the variability of these measurements was investigated. Retrospective measurements were acquired by a single radiologist in compliance with the study protocol based on the modified response evaluation criteria in solid tumors (RECIST). Differences in response classification categories by the two measurement approaches were evaluated and compared with patient survival. Eleven (27%) of the 41 MPM patients had primary measurements at baseline or at follow-up that deviated from the guidelines of the clinical trial protocol. Among the 41 baseline scans, no statistical difference was observed in summed tumor measurements between primary and retrospective measurements. Response classification based on primary and retrospective measurements was different in 23 (26%) of the 90 follow-up scans, and best response was the different in seven (17%) of the 41 patients. Using Harrell’s C statistic as a measure of correlation, response based on retrospective measurements correlated better with survival (C = 0.62) than did response based on primary measurements (C = 0.57). Strict compliance with the measurement protocol yields tumor response classifications that may differ from those obtained in clinical practice. Response based on retrospective measurements correlated better with survival than did response based on primary measurements. • Response classifications could be different between clinical primary and retrospective measurements for malignant pleural mesothelioma. • Response classifications obtained by strict compliance with the trial-specific protocol correlated better with survival than the classifications based on primary measurements. • Quality assurance and radiologist training measures should be used to ensure the integrity of image-based tumor measurements in mesothelioma clinical trials.
Clinical and Rehabilitative Predictors of Peak Oxygen Uptake Following Cardiac Transplantation

The measurement of peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) is an important metric for evaluating cardiac transplantation (HTx) eligibility. However, it is unclear which factors (e.g., recipient demographics, clinical parameters, cardiac rehabilitation (CR) participation) influence VO2peak following HTx. Consecutive HTx patients with cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) between 2007–2016 were included. VO2peak was measured from CPET standard protocol. Regression analyses determined predictors of the highest post-HTx VO2peak (i.e., quartile 4: VO2peak > 20.1 mL/kg/min). One hundred-forty HTx patients (women: n = 41 (29%), age: 52 ± 12 years, body mass index (BMI): 27 ± 5 kg/m2) were included. History of diabetes (Odds Ratio (OR): 0.17, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 0.04–0.77, p = 0.021), history of dyslipidemia (OR: 0.42, 95% CI: 0.19–0.93, p = 0.032), BMI (OR: 0.90, 95% CI: 0.82–0.99, p = 0.022), hemoglobin (OR: 1.29, 95% CI: 1.04–1.61, p = 0.020), white blood cell count (OR: 0.81, 95% CI: 0.66–0.98, p = 0.033), CR exercise sessions (OR: 1.10, 95% CI: 1.04–1.15, p < 0.001), and pre-HTx VO2peak (OR: 1.17, 95% CI: 1.07–1.29, p = 0.001) were significant predictors. Multivariate analysis showed CR exercise sessions (OR: 1.10, 95% CI: 1.03–1.16, p = 0.002), and pre-HTx VO2peak (OR: 1.16, 95% CI: 1.04–1.30, p = 0.007) were independently predictive of higher post-HTx VO2peak. Pre-HTx VO2peak and CR exercise sessions are predictive of a greater VO2peak following HTx. These data highlight the importance of CR exercise session attendance and pre-HTx fitness in predicting VO2peak post-HTx.
Probing local electronic and geometric changes of hydrated calcium vanadium oxide (CaxV2O5·yH2O) upon Zn ion intercalation

An interesting nanostructured non-stoichiometric vanadium oxide bronze (CaxV2O5•yH2O) is incorporated as the active material in an aqueous zinc-ion intercalation device. Simple solvothermal synthes...
Percutaneous penetration of drugs applied in transdermal delivery systems: an in vivo based approach for evaluating computer generated penetration models

Abstract Human skin is a viable pathway for administration of therapeutics. Transdermal delivery systems (TDS) have been approved by the US-FDA since 1981. To enable the risk assessment of dermal exposure, predictive mathematical models are used. In this work the accuracy of predicted flux of the models is compared to experimental human in vivo data of drugs applied in US-FDA approved TDS. A database of pharmacokinetic data of drugs applied in TDS was used and updated. Three mathematical models (QSAR) were used to calculate predicted fluxes, and compared to the human in vivo data. For more than half of the drugs applied in TDS, the predicted flux by the mathematical models was an underestimation compared to the flux calculated with the experimental in vivo data. The flux was over- or underestimated by a factor 10–100. All mathematical models were significantly correlated with the experimental in vivo data. The process of percutaneous penetration has several influencing factors, TDS minimize some of these factors. Limitations are discussed. Further research is needed, with a focus on validation and standardization of the permeability coefficient. This work offers observations that should give a stimulus for refinement on the appropriate usage and limitations of mathematical models.
Central line–associated bloodstream infections and completion of the central line insertion checklist: A descriptive analysis comparing a dedicated procedure team to other providers

A primary strategy of central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) prevention is standardized, aseptic insertion of central lines. We compared hospital-wide CLABSI rate pre- and post-implementation of a dedicated procedure team as well as central line checklist completion and patient-specific variables between the procedure team and other providers. No significant differences were found. Further CLABSI prevention should focus on central line maintenance.
Neighborhood and Community Factors Related to Youth Conduct Disorder Among Adolescents

Objetivo: Estima-se que entre 3% a 5% dos jovens sejam anualmente diagnosticados com o Transtorno de Conduta (DC), tornando-se uma preocupacao premente de saude mental. Embora muitos estudos se tenham focado sobre os aspetos comportamentais do transtorno de conduta, os fatores ambientais e de vizinhanca ainda necessitam de ser explorados. O presente estudo examinou as caracteristicas especificas do bairro e da comunidade associadas ao transtorno de conduta nos jovens. Metodo: Foi realizada uma analise secundaria do Questionario Nacional de Saude Infantil dos Estados Unidos de 2011-2012. Os participantes incluiram um total de 34.601 adolescentes com idade entre os 12 e os 17 anos (52,3% de sexo masculino e 47,7% de sexo feminino). Resultados: Os resultados do modelo final de regressao logistica multivariada revelaram que os fatores de risco significativos para o transtorno de conduta dos jovens foram: os bairros sem parques ou parques infantis, bibliotecas ou veiculos, presenca de lixo nas calcadas, vandalismo, a impossibilidade de contar com os outros nos bairros e a seguranca infantil percecionada. Conclusao: Sao discutidas as implicacoes desses resultados e as estrategias futuras para a prevencao do transtorno de conduta.
Calibration-based tool condition monitoring for repetitive machining operations

Abstract Reliable tool condition monitoring (TCM) system is essential for any machining process in mass production to control the part quality as well as reduce the machine tool downtime and maintenance costs. However, while various research studies have proposed their TCM systems, the complexity in setups with advanced decision-making algorithms and specificity in application to limited cutting conditions continue to complicate the implementation of these systems into practical scenarios. This study develops a very simple and flexible TCM system for repetitive machining operations. The proposed monitoring approach reduces the complexity of monitoring model by considering the important characteristic of repeatability in process which has been commonly found in the mass production scenario and implements the calibration procedure to improve the flexibility of the model application to actual machining processes with complex toolpath designs and variable cutting conditions. The selected cutting tools with specific tool conditions are used in the calibration phase to generate reference signals. In actual repetitive production, the collected signal generated by the cutting tool in each operation is compared with reference signals to identify the most similar condition of the reference tool through the proposed similarity analysis. To validate the performance, the current study demonstrates the application of proposed monitoring approach to monitor the tool wear in repetitive milling operations with complex toolpath, and the predicted tool wear progression is found to be in good agreement with experimental measurements during the machining of multiple parts over the entire tool life.
Water quality performance of wetlands receiving nonpoint-source nitrogen loads: Nitrate and total nitrogen removal efficiency and controlling factors

Nonpoint-source nitrogen (N) loads in the U.S. Corn Belt are a major concern both for local impacts on receiving waters and for contributing to hypoxia in the Gulf of Mexico. Nonpoint-source nutrient loads can be ameliorated by a combination of in-field and offsite practices, and wetland restoration is a particularly promising approach for reducing N loads from agricultural drainage. However, there is considerable variability among wetlands, and adequate performance data are available for relatively few systems receiving unregulated nonpoint-source loads. We measured N mass balances of 26 restored wetlands receiving a wide range of unregulated, naturally varying hydraulic and nutrient loads to evaluate the N removal performance of these systems and the effects of major factors controlling their performance. Nitrogen loads were primarily in the form of nitrate, and all of the wetlands were effective in reducing both nitrate and total N loads. Nitrate N and total N removal rates averaged 1,500 and 1,440 kg N ha-1 yr-1 , respectively, with the slightly lower total N removal rates reflecting a small net export of reduced N (averaging 66 kg N ha-1 yr-1 ). Average nitrate and total N removal rates were substantially higher than typically reported for Corn Belt wetlands but comparable with highly loaded systems elsewhere. Nitrate removal efficiency ranged from 9 to 92% and was strongly related to hydraulic loading rate and temperature. Results demonstrate the substantial capacity of wetlands to reduce unregulated and highly variable nonpoint-source N loads over a broad range of weather and loading conditions and provide a reasonable basis for predicting average wetland performance based on hydraulic loading rate, temperature, and nitrate concentration.
P-ANCA vasculitis with diffuse alveolar haemorrhage preceded by a spider bite

We report a patient with antineutrophilic cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) vasculitis that was preceded by witnessed black widow spider bites. The patient initially presented with a diffuse painful skin rash that developed after a few hours post bite. He was treated initially with topical ointment for the suspected bite. However, subsequently a few days later the patient returned to the hospital with similar, but more progressive rash with haemoptysis and acute hypoxic respiratory failure requiring supplemental oxygen. Immunology work up showed elevated titre of peri-nuclear ANCA. Bronchoscopy revealed diffuse alveolar haemorrhage. The patient was treated successfully with methylprednisolone and rituximab.
Enabling cognitive and autonomous infrastructure in extreme events through computer vision

As advent by the continuous inertia toward integrating artificial intelligence into daily operations, it is a matter of time before artificial intelligence reforms the field of structural engineering. From this point of view, this paper explores how computer vision and deep learning can be applied, in combination with advanced finite element analysis, to realize cognitive (self-diagnosing) and autonomous infrastructure. The outcome of this study demonstrates that computer vision not only can enable a structure to understand that it is undergoing an extreme event but can also allow it to trace its own performance and to independently respond to mitigate prominent failure/collapse. Findings of this work infer that computer vision can serve as an intelligent, and scalable agent to accurately trace structural response, identify different damage mechanisms and propose suitable repair strategies whether during or in the aftermath of a traumatic event (i.e., fire, earthquake). Finally, a series of challenges and future research directions are outlined toward the end of this paper.
The relative economic merits of alternative water right systems

Abstract How natural resources are measured and bounded within a property right system can influence their development and productivity. This is especially true for surface water given its fluid, fungible, and stochastic nature. Two quantifications have emerged: The prior appropriation doctrine provides absolute quantities to water allocated based on first use while proportional water rights distribute a set percentage of total water to owners. While theoretical differences have been identified, empirical tests are scarce due to the endogenous choice of water rights. I identify and utilize a natural experiment where acequias (Hispanic-rooted irrigation ditches) developed in Territorial New Mexico are later divided by the formation of Colorado, exogenously compelling that subset to be subject to the priority system while those in New Mexico continue to practice proportional division. Drawing on a broad compilation of archival, administrative, satellite, hydrological, and survey data, I find priority rights curtail investment for later irrigators, but that the marginal product of water is generally lower under that right system. This research advances our understanding of how distinct property right systems affect resource development and use. The results can guide stakeholders devising or reforming rights to a resource, particularly ones with stochastic flows.
Does off-exchange trading decrease in the presence of uncertainty?

Abstract Much of the trading in U.S. equities has moved to off-exchange venues. This study examines the pecking order hypothesis of trade venue selection by analyzing the amount of off-exchange trade volume in periods of uncertainty. During the sample period, there were over two billion shares per day reported to the Nasdaq TRF-Carteret, which maintained more than 29 percent of the total market share of volume in U.S. securities. The TRF-NYSE captures more market share in Nasdaq-listed securities than NYSE-listed stocks. This study also sheds light on the introduction of the Nasdaq TRF-Chicago and its ability to attract volume. Ultimately, there is evidence that the amount of off-exchange volume decreases during periods of heightened volatility. The findings are of interest to market participants, exchange officials, and regulators.