cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Attribute Evaluability and its Implications for Joint-Separate Evaluation Reversals and Beyond

The evaluability hypothesis posits that when two objects are evaluated separately, whether a given attribute of the objects can differentiate the evaluations of these objects depends on whether the attribute is easy or difficult to evaluate independently. The article discusses how the evaluability hypothesis explains joint-separate evaluation reversal, which is the phenomenon that the rank order of the evaluations of multiple objects changes depending on whether these objects are evaluated jointly or separately. The article presents empirical evidence for the evaluability hypothesis. The final section of the article discusses implications of the hypothesis for issues beyond reversals-in particular for inconsistencies between decisions and their consequences. Decisions are typically made in the joint evaluation mode, and outcome of a decision is usually experienced (or consumed) in the separate evaluation mode. Thus, reversals between joint and separate evaluation may manifest themselves in decision-consumption inconsistencies.
Δ9-THC training dose as a determinant for (R)-methanandamide generalization in rats: a systematic replication

Jarbe et al. (1998a) trained rats to discriminate between (-)-delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol (delta9-THC) and vehicle, using different training doses in order to create assays with different efficacy demands, to examine whether (R)-methanandamide, an analog of the endogenous ligand anandamide, had lower efficacy than delta9-THC. Rats were initially trained with 3 mg/kg delta9-THC, then tested with (R)-methanandamide and delta9-THC. Thereafter, the rats were split into two groups and retrained with either 1.8 or 5.6 mg/kg delta9-THC, followed by additional tests with the two agonists. The current study systematically replicated this study in two groups of rats, trained from the outset to discriminate between vehicle and either 1.8 or 5.6 mg/kg delta9-THC, respectively. Two-lever operant drug discrimination procedures were used. The outcomes in the two studies were similar. In tests with (R)-methanandamide, full substitution occurred in the low-dose delta9-THC training group, whereas substitution was partial in the high-dose delta9-THC training group. (R)-Methanandamide in higher doses exerted marked suppression of lever pressing. In tests with delta9-THC, full substitution occurred in both delta9-THC-trained groups, and rates of responding were comparable to those observed during regular drug training sessions. In conclusion, both sets of data indicate that cannabinoid agonists either can have varying degrees of efficacy at a receptor site, or may produce their behavioral actions through multiple mechanisms, or both. Prevailing training-dose condition rather than prior training-dose history is the major determinant for the substitution pattern.
O22.5 Providing Discrete and Reliable STD Testing in Alaska Via a Web-Based At-Home Service

Background Alaska has one of the highest rates of Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (GC) in the United States. Alaska Native people, women and youth (ages 15–29) are disproportionately affected. Alaska Native health organisations have jurisdictions over large geographic areas, containing small isolated communities where a perceived lack of confidentiality and privacy is an identified barrier to accessing Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) testing. The Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium (ANTHC) has partnered with the “ I Want the Kit ” programme (IWTK) at Johns Hopkins University (JHU) to provide a discrete and reliable STD testing alternative. Methods Alaska residents 14 years of age and older can request a no-cost STD testing kit online or by phone, which is mailed via U.S. Postal Service. After collection, the kit is returned in a prepaid envelope to JHU where it is tested for Chlamydia, gonorrhoea and Trichomonas . JHU reports all testing results to ANTHC, where a nurse notifies all participants of their results and refers positive cases for treatment. IWTK Alaska focuses its advertising efforts in rural Alaskan areas where the disease burden can be high and the barriers to accessing confidential healthcare are greatest. Results In 2012, JHU received a total of 439 home testing kit requests from Alaska of which 161 (37%) were returned. Alaska Native and/or American Indian participants comprised 30% and Whites 53% of kits tested; other minority groups made up the remaining 17% of kits tested. The ages of individuals who returned kits ranged from 16 to 63 years, with a median age of 28 years. Among the 161 kits tested, 14 (8.6%) tested positive for Chlamydia, two of these also tested positive for gonorrhoea, and four kits were positive for Trichomonas. Conclusion This web-based STD testing option increases access to STD testing by alleviating privacy and confidentiality concerns.
Tip-offs to ABO or Rh disease.

Hemolytic disease of the newborn is both treatable and preventable. The answers to questions asked a pregnant patient at her first visit may be a tip-off to a fetus in danger. Prenatal tests can identify the candidates for Rh immunization.
Response to Discussion of “Security Returns and Volume Responses around International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) Earnings Announcements”

This paper responds to Perkins' (2016) preferred methodology—association study rather than the use of an event study research design in Olibes' (2016) paper (Security Returns and Volume Responses around International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) Earnings Announcements). As noted by Collins and Kothari (1989), association studies recognize that investors likely learn “information about earnings and valuation relevant events from non-accounting information sources." As Callen et al (2009, 1364) note, event study analyses provide more direct evidence regarding the information conveyed of earnings disclosures. Most notably, in an empirical setting in which the focus is on testing the impact of new earnings information on stock returns and trading volume, it is vital to know when information arrives and the duration investors use that information in making investing and trading decisions. This reasoning justifies the methodology employed in Olibe (2016).
The Anatomy of the Lumbar Epidural Space using Magnetic Resonance Imaging

MRI(Magnetic Resonance Imaging) have provided for greater image resolution, detailed tissue contrast without use of contrast media and images acquired in any plane. The purpose of this study was to examine the anatomy and dimension of the epidural space using MRI(Magnetic Resonance Imaging) and to compare the information obtained with that from other investigative technique. The anatomy of the lumbar epidural space was studied retrospectively using lumbar MRI scans of 90 patients. The epidural width(E.W.) is divided into three distance between the anterior surface of the ligamentum flavum and the dura at the caudal end of the lumbar segment(A), at the mid point of the ligamentum flavum(B) and at the cranial end of the lumbar segment(C). The distance from skin to supraspinous ligament(S-L) and from supraspinous ligament to epidural space(L-E) were measured. And then with adding both the distance, We measured the distance from skin to epidural space(S-E). Results were as follows; I) Posterior to the dural sac, epidural fat which is of high signal(white) on Tlw(T1 weighted) image is demonstrated at levels Tl I-T12 to L5-Sl giving 'Saw toothed' pattem to the epidural space. The fat is divided into segments by the interposing laminar, and the epidural space is deeper at cranial end than caudal end. 2) It was the relatively wide epidural space in L2-3 and L3-4 level, and the narrowest epidural space in L5-Sl level. 3) The distance from skin to supraspinous ligament was noted marked variation(2-40mm) according to the individual disparity. And the distance from supraspinous ligament to epidural space is 17-43mm. In distance from skin to epidural space, the most narrow place is Ll-21evel (37.95±7.65mm). The most deep place is IA-5 level(46.35±7.20mm). As the age increase, epidural width is decreased at L3-4 level (p<0.05).(Korean J Anesthesion 1995; 29: 539~545)
Simulated pediatric resuscitation use for personal protective equipment adherence measurement and training during the 2009 influenza (H1N1) pandemic.

Article-at-a-Glance Background Previous experience with simulated pediatric cardiac arrests (that is, mock codes) suggests frequent deviation from American Heart Association (AHA) basic and advanced life support algorithms. During highly infectious outbreaks, acute resuscitation scenarios may also increase the risk of insufficient personal protective equipment (PPE) use by health care workers (HCWs). Simulation was used as an educational tool to measure adherence with PPE use and pediatric resuscitation guidelines during simulated cardiopulmonary arrests of 2009 influenza A patients. Methods A retrospective, observational study was performed of 84 HCWs participating in 11 in situ simulations in June 2009. Assessment included (1) PPE adherence, (2) confidence in PPE use, (3) elapsed time to specific resuscitation maneuvers, and (4) deviation from AHA guidelines. Results Observed adherence with PPE use was 61% for eye shields, 81% for filtering facepiece respirators or powered air-purifying respirators, and 87% for gown/gloves. Use of a "gatekeeper" to control access and facilitate donning of PPE was associated with 100% adherence with gown and respirator precautions and improved respirator adherence. All simulations showed deviation from pediatric basic life support protocols. The median time to bag-valve-mask ventilation improved from 4.3 to 2.7minutes with a gatekeeper present. Rapid isolation carts appeared to improve access to necessary PPE. Confidence in PPE use improved from 64% to 85% after the mock code and structured debriefing. Conclusions Large gaps exist in the use of PPE and self-protective behaviors, as well as adherence to resuscitation guidelines, during simulated resuscitation events. Intervention opportunities include use of rapid isolation measures, use of gatekeepers, reinforcement of first responder roles, and further simulation training with PPE.
Nitric oxide and prostaglandins interact to prevent hepatic damage during murine endotoxemia

Nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandins (PG) both possess the ability to induce vasodilatation and prevent the aggregation of platelets. The synthesis of these substances is increased following in vivo lipopolysaccharide (LPS) infusion, but their function during sepsis is incompletely understood. We studied the role of NO and PG in a murine model of chronic hepatic inflammation (Corynebacterium parvum injection), which is known to progress to sudden hepatic necrosis after LPS injection. NO synthesis, which is induced in hepatocytes by C. parvum treatment and in nonparenchymal cells by LPS treatment, was inhibited using NG-monomethyl-L-arginine (L-NMMA). High-dose aspirin (ASA) was used to block PG synthesis. Treatment with L-NMMA or ASA alone, in the absence of LPS, resulted in no increase in hepatic injury. C. parvum-treated mice that received both L-NMMA and ASA without LPS developed marked hepatic damage as reflected by increased hepatocellular enzyme release (aspartate aminotransferase and L-ornithine carbamoyl-transferase). Marked hepatic damage was seen after LPS administration, and ASA pretreatment alone had no effect on the LPS-induced hepatic injury, whereas L-NMMA markedly increased the hepatic damage. The combination of L-NMMA and ASA after LPS resulted in the greatest hepatocellular enzyme release, characterized histologically by intravascular thrombosis with diffuse infarction and necrosis. Simultaneous treatment with either PGI2 or L-arginine partially prevented this injury. These data demonstrate that NO and PG function synergistically to maintain hepatocellular integrity; thus increased synthesis of these mediators protects the liver from the pathophysiological effects of LPS in this model.
Local and Long-Range Sequence Contributions to the Folding of a Predominantly β-Sheet Protein

Understanding how a linear sequence of amino acids guides acquisition of the native state of a protein — the protein folding problem — is key to interpreting information present in the human genome and to developing therapeutic approaches to diseases caused by protein misfolding. While considerable progress has been made in elucidating the interplay of local and long-range forces in the folding of α-helical proteins, such understanding has lagged for primarily β-sheet proteins [1]. We have undertaken studies aimed at determining the roles of local and global sequence information in the folding of the predominantly β-sheet protein, cellular retinoic acid binding protein I (CRABP I). CRABP I is a 136 residue β-clamshell protein (Figure 1) whose physiological role is the sequestration and transport of the hydrophobic ligand retinoic acid. CRABP I is a member of the large family of intracellular lipid binding proteins (iLBPs) [2], which contains 52 members with sequence identity greater than 30% with respect to CRABP I. Past work in our laboratory using stopped-flow (SF) mixing to follow the fluorescence of CRABP I has allowed us to define a series of kinetic phases from the urea-denatured conformational ensemble to the native fold [3]. Within the ≈10 ms dead time of the SF instrument, the unfolded ensemble forms a hydro-phobically collapsed state with considerable secondary structure. The presence of significant secondary structure along with hydrophobic collapse suggests that both global and local forces are acting in the earliest folding events.
Cluster Ion-Solid Interactions: Theory, Simulation, and Experiment

Cluster Ion-Solid Interactions: Theory, Simulation, and Experiment provides an overview of various concepts in cluster physics and related topics in physics, including the fundamentals and tools underlying novel cluster ion beam technology. The material is based on the author's highly regarded courses at Kyoto University, Purdue University, the Mos
Diagnosis and Diagnostic Modalities in Pediatric Patients with Elevated Troponin

Care of adults with coronary artery disease focuses on troponins to rapidly move patients to catheterization. Troponins are increasingly drawn in children, but emergent catheterization may not be indicted. We sought to establish etiologies of troponin elevation and ascertain the yield of diagnostic tests, in this population. Retrospective review of patients from January 1, 2002, to December 31, 2011, who had any elevated troponin during the study period. Patients were excluded for recent cardiac surgery, “significant” congenital heart disease, if they were neonates in the NICU or were on ECMO. Twenty-four patients made up our study group: 17/24 (71 %) had myocarditis or cardiomyopathy. Three had coronary-related diagnoses: 1 ALCAPA and 2 Kawasaki syndrome. The most useful testing for making or confirming the diagnoses included ECG, CXR and ECHO. Fourteen had right heart catheterization which was useful in 10/14. Nine had MRI which was useful in 7/9 (all five cases of suspected myocarditis). Left heart catheterization was completed in 10/24 cases, but in no case made or changed the diagnosis. This study confirms that children with elevated troponins differ from adults. The most common cause is myocarditis or cardiomyopathy, whereas coronary-related ischemia is rare. Diagnosis with ECG, CXR and ECHO is typically adequate. Focused use of right heart catheterization and MRI may be useful. In pediatric patients with elevated troponins, left heart catheterization and coronary angiography should be reserved for a highly selective group, and adult “door-to-balloon time” protocols should not be applied routinely.
A network of conserved formins, regulated by the guanine exchange factor EXC-5 and the GTPase CDC-42, modulates tubulogenesis in vivo

The C. elegans excretory cell (EC) is a powerful model for tubulogenesis, a conserved process that requires precise cytoskeletal regulation. EXC-6, an ortholog of the disease-associated formin INF2, coordinates cell outgrowth and lumen formation during EC tubulogenesis by regulating F-actin at the tip of the growing canal and the dynamics of basolateral microtubules. EXC-6 functions in parallel with EXC-5/FGD, a predicted activator of the Rho GTPase Cdc42. Here, we identify the parallel pathway: EXC-5 functions through CDC-42 to regulate two other formins: INFT-2, another INF2 ortholog, and CYK-1, the sole ortholog of the mammalian diaphanous (mDia) family of formins. We show that INFT-2 promotes F-actin accumulation in the EC, and that CYK-1 inhibits INFT-2 to regulate F-actin levels and EXC-6-promoted outgrowth. As INF2 and mDia physically interact and cross-regulate in cultured cells, our work indicates that a conserved EXC-5-CDC-42 pathway modulates this regulatory interaction and that it is functionally important in vivo during tubulogenesis.
Abstract 63: Missense Mutation Lys18Asn in Dystrophin that Triggers X-Linked Cardiomyopathy Affects Protein Structure, Decreases Protein Stability and Increases Protein Unfolding

A genetic mutation in dystrophin that replaces lysine at amino acid position 18 by an asparagine (K18N) results in X-linked cardiomyopathy (XCM), however, the underlying molecular mechanisms are not known. Such knowledge might help in developing effective therapies to treat XCM. The first step in understanding disease-triggering mechanisms is to probe how mutation affects protein structure and function. The K18N mutation occurs in the N-terminal actin binding domain (N-ABD) of dystrophin. Here, we examined the effect of K18N on the structure, stability, and function of N-ABD. Fig. 1A shows the 15 N- 1 H HSQC NMR spectrum before and after the mutation. Each crosspeak in the spectrum represents the structure around an amino acid. Mutation affects the position of nearly all the crosspeaks. These changes are not just located at the mutation site, but were observed in regions far away from the mutation site and also in the three actin binding regions with which N-ABD interacts with actin. In addition, the mutation makes the protein more dynamic. These structural changes result in decreased actin binding function of N-ABD. Also, the K18N mutation decreases the stability by ΔΔG = 5.3 kcal/mol (Fig. 1B) and increases the rate of unfolding by 3.2 times (Fig. 1C), which exponentially increase the relative population of unfolded state that is more prone to proteolysis and hence will result in decreased levels of the functional protein. These results indicate that the physical mechanism by which the K18N mutation triggers the disease might be by affecting protein structure leading to decreased actin binding and by decreasing the net protein levels leading to decreased net function.
The Pathogenesis-Related Maize Seed (PRms) Gene Plays a Role in Resistance to Aspergillus flavus Infection and Aflatoxin Contamination.

Aspergillus flavus is an opportunistic plant pathogen that colonizes and produces the toxic and carcinogenic secondary metabolites, aflatoxins, in oil-rich crops such as maize (Zea mays ssp. mays L.). Pathogenesis-related proteins serve as an important defense mechanism against invading pathogens by conferring systemic acquired resistance (SAR) in plants. Among these, production of the pathogenesis-related maize seed protein, ZmPRms (AC205274.3_FG001), has been speculated to be involved in resistance to infection by A. flavus and other pathogens. To better understand the relative contribution of ZmPRms to A. flavus resistance and aflatoxin production, a seed-specific RNA interference (RNAi)-based gene silencing approach was used to develop transgenic maize lines expressing hairpin RNAs to target ZmPRms. Down-regulation of ZmPRms in transgenic kernels resulted in a ~250-350% increase in A. flavus infection accompanied by a ~4.5 to 7.5-fold higher accumulation of aflatoxins than control plants. Gene co-expression network analysis of RNA-seq data during the A. flavus-maize interaction identified ZmPRms as a network hub possibly responsible for regulating several downstream candidate genes associated with disease resistance and other biochemical functions. Expression analysis of these candidate genes in the ZmPRms-RNAi lines demonstrated down-regulation (vs. control) of a majority of these ZmPRms regulated genes during A. flavus infection. These results are consistent with a key role of ZmPRms in resistance to A. flavus infection and aflatoxin accumulation in maize kernels.
Using a chain recooling system on buildings in hot and humid climates

Abstract In hot and humid climates, warm outside air with rich moisture content impacts several aspects of building operation. To meet the ventilation requirement while maintaining indoor relative humidity (RH) at the desired level, dehumidification is usually required. This is typically done by cooling the air to 55 °F (12.8 °C). However, if the zone cooling load is low, then inefficient reheat may be necessary to maintain the indoor temperature set-point. To achieve better system efficiency, a new HVAC system concept called the "Chain Recooling System" is proposed. In this paper, it is shown that compared to a conventional Single Duct Variable Air Volume (SDVAV) system, the proposed system has the potential to provide better indoor air quality, eliminate the reheat requirement, and reduce fan energy consumption. To demonstrate the advantages of the proposed system, a building on the Texas A&M University campus in College Station, TX, is selected as a case study. It is projected that the HVAC system related energy consumption would be reduced by 15.2% and the average contaminant level would be reduced by 27% if the SDVAV system were replaced by the CRS without sacrificing comfort in the individual zones.
The alphavirus exit pathway: What we know and what we wish we knew

Alphaviruses are enveloped positive sense RNA viruses and include serious human pathogens, such as the encephalitic alphaviruses and Chikungunya virus. Alphaviruses are transmitted to humans primarily by mosquito vectors and include species that are classified as emerging pathogens. Alphaviruses assemble highly organized, spherical particles that bud from the plasma membrane. In this review, we discuss what is known about the alphavirus exit pathway during a cellular infection. We describe the viral protein interactions that are critical for virus assembly/budding and the host factors that are involved, and we highlight the recent discovery of cell-to-cell transmission of alphavirus particles via intercellular extensions. Lastly, we discuss outstanding questions in the alphavirus exit pathway that may provide important avenues for future research.
Eavesdropping in an African large mammal community: antipredator responses vary according to signaller reliability

Alarm calls can provide nontarget receivers with potentially life-saving information on predation risk. However, patterns of eavesdropping among species may be shaped by the reliability of the intercepted information, that is, the degree to which the alarm call represents a pertinent threat to the eavesdropping species (‘relevance’). Prey are predicted to respond strongly to alarm calls from species that are attacked by the same predator guild, whereas species consumed by a larger or different subset of the carnivore community may act as a less reliable source of predator information. We used a playback experiment to examine whether the degree of antipredator responses to heterospecific alarm calls varied with the reliability of the calling species in three large African mammals: impala, Aepyceros melampus, common wildebeest, Connochaetes taurinus, and plains zebra, Equus quagga. Alarm calls of all three species were broadcast randomly to herds of their own species or to either of the other two species. In accordance with the reliability hypothesis, we found that all species reacted strongly to zebra alarm calls. Lions are the primary predator of zebra and represent a significant threat to all three prey species. In contrast, impala are consumed by a greater number of predators, and their alarm calls evoked weaker, mixed responses in the other two species.
Silent voices of homelessness: content analysis of homelessness in children’s picture books published in the U.S. from 1990 to 2016

There are many students experiencing homelessness in the U.S. school systems. However, homelessness in children’s literature has been studied little. This article discusses how homelessness is port...
Vulnerability of Interdependent Networks with Heterogeneous Cascade Models and Timescales

The vulnerability of interdependent networks has recently drawn much attention, especially in the key infrastructure networks such as power and communication networks. However, the existing works mainly considered a single cascade model across the networks and there is a need for more accurate models and analysis. In this paper, we focus on the interdependent power/communication networks to accurately analyze their vulnerability by considering heterogeneous cascade models. Accurately analyzing interdependent networks is challenging as the cascades are heterogeneous yet interdependent. Also, including multiple timescales into the context can further increase the complexity. To better depict the vulnerability of interdependent networks, we first propose a method to learn a threshold model from historical data to characterize the cascades in the power network and alleviate the need of calculating complicated power network dynamics. Next, we introduce message passing equations to generalize the threshold model in the power network and the percolation model in the communication network, based on which we derive efficient solution for finding the most critical nodes in the interdependent networks. Removing the most critical nodes can cause the largest cascade and thus characterizes the vulnerability. We evaluate the performance of the proposed methods in various datasets and discuss how network parameters, such as the timescales, can impact the vulnerability.
4.04 – Liquid Membranes

In this chapter, the liquid membrane separation processes, including emulsion liquid membranes, supported liquid membranes, and supported liquid membranes with strip dispersion, are discussed. A review of mass transfer mechanisms, theory, and applications for each of the liquid membrane processes is presented and discussed.
On the Algorithmic Aspects of Using OpenMP Synchronization Mechanisms: The Effects of Transactional Memory

In this paper we analyze the effects of using different OpenMP synchronization mechanisms in iterative mesh optimization algorithms run on the IBM Blue Gene/Q system. We perform a systematic study of a threaded Laplacian mesh smoothing method on Cartesian meshes of different sizes that have been initially perturbed by a factor that is random, but within a controlled range. We consider three different run modes, two of which are OpenMP synchronization mechanisms: (hardware) transactional memory (TM), OpenMP critical, and “none”. We find that TM typically outperforms the other two modes in terms of its convergence characteristics. Because of the algorithmic simplicity and light operation count, the raw runtime performance was not our focus in this work; however, we present some results on TM scaling. We also show the TM rollback and conflict probabilities, and conclude that mesh optimization codes are good candidates for using TM when the more general “time-to-convergence” criterion is considered.
Association of an Electronic Health Record-Linked Glaucoma Medical Reminder with Patient Satisfaction

Importance While dosing reminders for glaucoma medications have been shown to increase drug adherence, an outstanding limitation preventing broad adoption is difficulty linking reminders to medication in each patient’s electronic health record (EHR). Objective To examine the feasibility of implementing an EHR-linked, automated reminder system for glaucoma medications and assess patient satisfaction with it. Design, Setting, and Participants In this prospective, cross-sectional study, patients receiving glaucoma medications were recruited from a university-based glaucoma clinic from April 2017 to January 2018. Analysis began in February 2018. Exposures A web-based application was added to the EHR patient portal, allowing patients to configure telecommunication-based reminders for their glaucoma medications. For all potential participants, basic information was collected to determine risk of nonadherence with glaucoma medications. Those consenting to participate then answered questions on medication adherence, reminders, and their likelihood of using EHR-linked reminders. They then configured reminders using the EHR patient portal. After 3 months, they answered questions about their satisfaction with the system. Main Outcomes and Measures Proportions of patients and high-risk patients willing to use the reminders, and patient satisfaction with the system. Results Of 147 patients approached, 100 (68%) agreed to participate, of whom the majority were men (54 [54%]) and white (51 [51%]), with a mean (SD) age of 65 (12.4) years. There were no differences between those willing and unwilling to participate, except for a slightly lower self-reported medication adherence rate among those who participated (mean [SD], 91% [13.6%] vs 97% [6.0%]). Based on a previously validated risk assessment score, 9% (9 of 100) of participants were categorized as being at high risk for poor adherence (≥50% probability of nonadherence) compared with 11% (5 of 47) of nonparticipants. Of 100 participants, 94 ultimately configured reminders, of whom 89 (95%) completed follow-up. On follow-up, 74% (n = 66; 95% CI, 65-83) of participants found the reminders to be useful, 15% (n = 13) were neutral, and 11% (n = 10) found them not useful. Most participants (72 [81%]; 95% CI, 77-85) had help configuring reminders. Conclusions and Relevance Electronic health records–linked reminders had good uptake and were well received among patients at a tertiary glaucoma clinic. These portals may represent a new and convenient method of allowing patients to link their glaucoma medications to automated reminders, although the generalizability of these results and the effect on glaucoma outcomes remains unknown.
Nonlinear Maneuver Regulation for Reduced-G Atmospheric Flight

A maneuver regulation controller for reduced gravity vertical flight is developed using intuition based on an internal model of the quadratically increasing (in time) aerodynamic drag. This leads to a controller employing a chain of three integrators. Since the drag “disturbance” actually results from a nonlinear feedback, the usual linear stability analysis is insufficient. The proper framework is found using a transverse coordinate system about the desired maneuver, where one may show that the maneuver is in fact exponentially attractive. Experimental performance of the resulting control system is also presented.
Adverse organogenesis and predisposed long-term metabolic syndrome from prenatal exposure to fine particulate matter.

Exposure to fine particulate matter (PM) during pregnancy is associated with high risks of birth defects/fatality and adverse long-term postnatal health. However, limited mechanistic data are available to assess the detailed impacts of prenatal PM exposure. Here we evaluate fine PM exposure during pregnancy on prenatal/postnatal organogenesis in offspring and in predisposing metabolic syndrome for adult life. Between days 0 and 18 of gestation, two groups of adult female rats (n = 10 for each) were placed in a dual-exposure chamber device, one with clean ambient air (∼3 µg·m−3) and the other with ambient air in the presence of 100 to 200 µg·m−3 of ultrafine aerosols of ammonium sulfate. At birth (postnatal day 0, PND0), four males and four females were selected randomly from each litter to be nursed by dams, whereas tissues were collected from the remaining pups. At PND21, tissues were collected from two males and two females, whereas the remaining pups were fed either a high- or low-fat diet until PND105, when tissues were obtained for biochemical and physiological analyses. Maternal exposure to fine PM increased stillbirths; reduced gestation length and birth weight; increased concentrations of glucose and free fatty acids in plasma; enhanced lipid accumulation in the liver; and decreased endothelium-dependent relaxation of aorta. This lead to altered organogenesis and predisposed progeny to long-term metabolic defects in an age-, organ-, and sex-specific manner. Our results highlight the necessity to develop therapeutic strategies to remedy adverse health effects of maternal PM exposure on conceptus/postnatal growth and development.
Successful Privatization Strategies (Chapter 9)

The transfer of public assets, infrastructure, and services to the private sector is a new area of public policy and finance. It is so new, in fact, that the word privatize appeared in Webster's New Collegiate Dictionary for the first time in 1983. In this essay, I will present theory and evidence that support the policy of privatization and make recommendations about strategies required for successful privatization.
Qualitative data analysis software as a tool for teaching analytic practice: Towards a theoretical framework for integrating QDAS into methods pedagogy:

Methods educators who include qualitative data analysis software (QDAS) in their teaching see the software as an opportunity to bring authentic experiences of analytic practice into classrooms. How...
Noninvasive Prognostic Biomarkers for Left-Sided Heart Failure as Predictors of Survival in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension.

Background Three biomarkers, soluble suppression of tumorigenicity 2 (ST2), galectin 3 (Gal3), and N-terminal brain natriuretic peptide prohormone (NT-proBNP), are approved for noninvasive risk assessment in left-sided heart failure, and small observational studies have shown their prognostic usefulness in heterogeneous pulmonary hypertension cohorts. We examined associations between these biomarkers and disease severity and survival in a large cohort of patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) (ie, group 1 pulmonary hypertension). We hypothesized that additive use of biomarkers in combination would improve the prognostic value of survival models. Methods Biomarker measurements and clinical data were obtained from 2,017 adults with group 1 PAH. Associations among biomarker levels and clinical variables, including survival times, were examined with multivariable regression models. Likelihood ratio tests and the Akaike information criterion were used to compare survival models. Results Higher ST2 and NT-proBNP were associated with higher pulmonary pressures and vascular resistance and lower 6-min walk distance. Higher ST2 and NT-proBNP levels were associated with increased risk of death (hazard ratios: 2.79; 95% CI, 2.21-3.53; P Conclusions ST2 and NT-proBNP are strong, noninvasive prognostic biomarkers in PAH. Despite its prognostic value in left-sided heart failure, Gal3 was not predictive in PAH. Adding ST2 to survival models significantly improves model predictive capacity. Future studies are needed to develop multimarker assays that improve noninvasive risk stratification in PAH.
A Solubility Comparison of Cyclotetramethylenetetranitramine (HMX) and Potential Mock-HMX Candidates in Solvents Relevant to Slurry Formulating Polymer-Bonded Materials

Understanding solubility behavior of organic crystalline materials is critical in the development of slurry-formulated plastic bonded composites. In the field of high explosives (HE), a common method for obtaining high density, greater than 95% theoretical maximum density, is to encapsulate HE in a polymer matrix resulting in the formation of plastic bonded explosive (PBX) prills which can then be pressed to high density parts. Prill formation is highly nuanced and requires understanding of particle size distributions, solvent, antisolvent, and binder system as well as interactions thereof. In an effort to create mock-HE that mimics HE in density and mechanical strength, solubility of candidate molecules was compared to cyclotetramethylenetetranitramine (HMX) in binder solvents relevant to prill formation. The results indicate that the mock candidates chosen for this study have different solubilities compared to HMX in water and both organic solvents, 2-butanone and ethyl acetate, investigated. With these solubility differences known, prills to match PBXs based on HMX can be formulated, pressed and tested.
A Prospective, Multicenter, Clinical Trial Evaluating the Safety and Effectiveness of the Cerene Device to Treat Heavy Menstrual Bleeding.

ABSTRACT Study Objective To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of a novel cryoablation device (Cerene Cryotherapy Device, Channel Medsystems, Emeryville, CA) in premenopausal women with heavy menstrual bleeding owing to benign causes. Design A prospective, multi-center, single-arm, open label, non-randomized study. Setting At 11 academic and private practices in North America: 8 clinic sites in the United States, and 3 outpatient hospital sites (1 in Mexico and 2 in Canada). Patients A total of 242 subjects comprise the intent-to-treat population. Subject demographics were similar to other published endometrial ablation studies performed. Interventions Subjects were treated with a single-use disposable cryoablation device (Cerene) which delivers a 2.5-minute treatment to the endometrium. Analgesia and local anesthesia were administered per investigator discretion; intravenous sedation was used in only 3% of subjects and no general anesthesia was used. Measurements and Main Results There were no device or procedure-related serious adverse events, nor unanticipated adverse device effects. Cerene cryoablation was effective in reducing menstrual blood loss, which was measured by pictorial blood loss assessment chart (PBLAC) score. Mean score dropped from 360.6 at pretreatment (±332.1) to 51 at 12 months posttreatment (±64.1), with 81% of 230 evaluable subjects reporting a PBLAC score of ≤75 and 85% of evaluable subjects reporting a PBLAC score of ≤ 100. The median pain rating was ≤2 (mild) throughout the treatment. Of 223 subjects that underwent hysteroscopic evaluation at 12 months, the uterine cavity was visualized in 220 subjects. Quality of life improved with 90% of reporting subjects indicating satisfied or very satisfied at month 12. Conclusion This study demonstrated that Cerene cryoablation is safe and effective, offering the benefits of reduced menstrual blood loss with limited use of pain medication, high patient tolerability, quality of life improvement, and preserved access to the uterine cavity.
Scientific Analysis of Cultural Heritage Objects

Abstract The characterization of cultural heritage objects becomes increasingly important for conservation, restoration, dating, and authentication purposes. The use of scientific methods in archae...
"From All Walks of Life": Attending an Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting to Reduce Addiction Stigma Among Medical Students.

Substance use disorders (SUDs) are stigmatized conditions in medicine, with negative attitudes toward patients with SUDs beginning to form in medical school. Only a few studies with small samples show that attending an Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meeting may help decrease addiction stigma. This study examined whether attending an AA meeting impacts medical student attitudes toward patients with SUDs and any gender and age group differences within these attitudes. As part of their psychiatry clerkship, 138 third-year medical students attended an AA meeting and wrote reflection essays discussing expectations before the meeting, feelings while there, and thoughts on how these feelings might affect patient care. The authors performed a thematic analysis to identify themes and t tests to compare theme frequency by gender and age group. A primary theme in student responses was a reduction in stigmatizing attitudes, which was broken down into three subthemes: complexity of addiction (46%), diversity of people with addiction (37%), and practical applications (66%). Practical applications comprised compassionate care (53%) and intention to address SUDs clinically (35%). While no gender differences were found in theme frequency, younger students showed significantly higher frequency of all themes. Attending an AA meeting can challenge medical students’ stigmatizing attitudes about addiction and increase flexibility of thinking. Younger students’ biases may not be as solidified, stressing the importance of early exposure to patients in recovery during medical school. Attending an AA meeting and reflecting on the experience may be one way to decrease addiction stigma among medical students.
Histoplasmosis: An Unusual Cause of Adrenal Insufficiency.

Abstract Objective Adrenal insufficiency (AI), if not diagnosed in a timely manner, can lead to fatal outcomes. Here we describe an unusual case of AI secondary to disseminated histoplasmosis (DH) and the importance of being aware of the association of infections and AI. Methods A 56-year-old Hispanic man with untreated HIV infection presented for the evaluation of left upper jaw swelling and pain. A brain magnetic resonance imaging scan revealed a 4-cm soft-tissue mass in the left maxilla. Biopsy of the mass was consistent with histoplasmosis. He was also noted to have hyponatremia and hyperkalemia, which raised the suspicion of AI. Laboratory investigation showed a baseline cortisol level of 7 μg/dL (normal, 7-23 μg/dL) and adrenocorticotropic hormone level of 86 pg/mL (normal, 7-69 pg/mL). His 60-minute cortisol level after a 250-μg cosyntropin stimulation test was 9 μg/dL (normal, 7-23 μg/dL). Computed tomography of the chest incidentally noted bilateral adrenal enlargement. An adrenal biopsy was not pursued due to the high index of clinical suspicion of DH as the etiology of AI. Results He was diagnosed with adrenal histoplasmosis because of the evidence of AI and bilateral adrenal enlargement in the setting of DH. He was started on glucocorticoid replacement for primary AI and continues to be on glucocorticoids even after 5 years of diagnosis. DH frequently involves the adrenal gland (80%) and can present as adrenal enlargement but does not always cause primary AI. Conclusion Our case demonstrates the importance of being vigilant about infections like histoplasmosis as a potential cause of AI. Delay in treatment in such cases could result in life-threatening consequences.
1D kinetic study of pinch formation in a dense plasma focus: Transition from collisional to collisionless regimes

The pinch-formation stage of a deuterium dense plasma focus, and associated “shock-flash” neutron yield, is studied using 1D kinetic simulations considering a plasma column with initial pressure P, initial radius R, and the compression to be driven by a constant current I. The relative behavior of the compression is shown to be similar for fixed ratios of the characteristic ion mean free path to the radius of the plasma column at stagnation, λ s t / R s t. This dimensionless parameter is shown to scale like I 4 / ( P 3 R 5 ). The compression ratio, R / R s t, is found to be a minimum when λ s t / R s t ≈ 1 and is the largest in the collisionless limit where λ s t ≫ R s t. This behavior is in contrast to the analogous planar pinch where R / R s t decreases from one constant for λ s t / R s t ≪ 1 to a smaller constant for λ s t / R s t ≫ 1. The yield in the collisionless regime is shown to fall between the two well-known I4 scaling laws. Furthermore, this regime exhibits qualities that potentially make it appealing for radiography applications, such as increased localization in time and space of the neutron formation.
Teaching Simulation to Generation Z Engineering Students: Lessons Learned from a Flipped Classroom Pilot Study

Simulation has been a long-time staple for industrial and systems engineering programs. Today’s engineering students known as Generation Z (Gen-Z) exhibit specific generational traits including short attention spans and multi-tasking on multiple digital screens. These Gen-Z preferences have created new challenges and opportunities for the delivery of simulation methods and training in a classroom. In this paper, we present motivating factors and success in converting a software-intensive undergraduate-level simulation course to a flipped classroom setting. Furthermore, we present lessons learned from a multi-semester pilot study that investigated the impact of video length in lecture-length 40-50 minute vs. short-length 10-12 minute videos. Surprisingly, Gen-Z students preferred lecture-length videos. This paper shares our experience in transitioning from traditional to flipped classroom lectures for teaching simulation to Gen-Z engineering students. We share student feedback about the transition process, key tips for communicating expectations and deliverables, and how to minimize video burnout.
Discovering Chatbot's Self-Disclosure's Impact on User Trust, Affinity, and Recommendation Effectiveness

In recent years, chatbots have been empowered to engage in social conversations with humans and have the potential to elicit people to disclose their personal experiences, opinions, and emotions. However, how and to what extent people respond to chabots' self-disclosure remain less known. In this work, we designed a social chatbot with three self-disclosure levels that conducted small talks and provided relevant recommendations to people. 372 MTurk participants were randomized to one of the four groups with different self-disclosure levels to converse with the chatbot on two topics, movies, and COVID-19. We found that people's self-disclosure level was strongly reciprocal to a chatbot's self-disclosure level. Chatbots' self-disclosure also positively impacted engagement and users' perception of the bot and led to a more effective recommendation such that participants enjoyed and agreed more with the recommendations.
The cost of business restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic

Background: In addition to reducing mortality and morbidity, COVID-19 therapies confer societal benefits by reducing the disease’s economic impact. Therapies that address COVID hospitalizations mitigate the need for government-imposed economic restrictions to reduce disease spread and hence the risk that hospitals become overwhelmed. We investigated the potential value of such therapies by estimating the cost of government restrictions imposed during late 2020, costs that COVID therapies might make less necessary. Methods: We combined high frequency consumer spending and initial unemployment claims data (outcomes), information about when state governments restricted business activities (explanatory variable of interest), and case incidence and mortality data (proxies for the potential confounding effect of pandemic severity on voluntary economic activity reductions). We developed linear mixed models that account for nesting within US state and correlation across observations close in time. Sensitivity analyses explored the impact of: (1) limiting attention to the 10 U.S. states that “mostly closed” at some point during late 2020; (2) excluding subsets of potential confounding variables; (3) altering our outcome variable definition (i.e., for designating a state as “mostly closed”); and (4) considering alternative model correlation structures. Results: Government-imposed restrictions reduced total consumer spending by 2% and spending on restaurants and accommodations by 5%. They increased weekly initial unemployment claims by 0.21% of the 2019 US workforce. We estimate that restrictions in the U.S. during late 2020 reduced consumer spending by $12 billion and increased initial weekly unemployment claims by 114,000. Sensitivity analyses indicated that our findings are robust. Conclusions: Assuming that late 2020 is representative of tendencies for the government to restrict economic activity in response to high hospital utilization, therapies reducing hospital utilization have the potential to confer substantial societal value. Recognizing societal benefits in health technology assessment will help allocate resources to address the most important risks society faces.