cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Odds ratios from logistic, geometric, Poisson, and negative binomial regression models.

The odds ratio (OR) is used as an important metric of comparison of two or more groups in many biomedical applications when the data measure the presence or absence of an event or represent the frequency of its occurrence. In the latter case, researchers often dichotomize the count data into binary form and apply the well-known logistic regression technique to estimate the OR. In the process of dichotomizing the data, however, information is lost about the underlying counts which can reduce the precision of inferences on the OR. We propose analyzing the count data directly using regression models with the log odds link function. With this approach, the parameter estimates in the model have the exact same interpretation as in a logistic regression of the dichotomized data, yielding comparable estimates of the OR. We prove analytically, using the Fisher information matrix, that our approach produces more precise estimates of the OR than logistic regression of the dichotomized data. We also show the gains in precision using simulation studies and real-world datasets. We focus on three related distributions for count data: geometric, Poisson, and negative binomial. In simulation studies, confidence intervals for the OR were 56–65% as wide (geometric model), 75–79% as wide (Poisson model), and 61–69% as wide (negative binomial model) as the corresponding interval from a logistic regression produced by dichotomizing the data. When we analyzed existing datasets using our approach, we found that confidence intervals for the OR could be up to 64% shorter (36% as wide) compared to if the data had been dichotomized and analyzed using logistic regression. More precise estimates of the OR can be obtained directly from the count data by using the log odds link function. This analytic approach is easy to implement in software packages that are capable of fitting generalized linear models or of maximizing user-defined likelihood functions.
Ethel Carnie Holdsworth’s Helen of Four Gates: Recasting Melodrama in Novel and Cinematic Form

This chapter begins by outlining how the former mill worker Ethel Carnie Holdsworth’s writing career developed at the beginning of the twentieth century and, in particular, how her journalistic work enabled her to develop theories including a conception of emotional sensibility as a key component of both class and poetic consciousness. Analysis of Helen of Four Gates shows how it distils these theories within a melodramatic framework that aligns romance conventions with socialist-feminist aims in order to reimagine freedom. The chapter goes on to discuss, how due to Carnie Holdsworth’s underlying narrative, the 1921 film version of Helen of Four Gates provides a darker vision of post-First-World-War England than the pastoral norms of its cinematic competitors, which complicates the class and gender politics of such films.
XQuery 3.0 is nearing completion

XQuery 3.0 was initially called XQuery 1.1, but the Working Groups later decided to align the names of these new versions of XPath and XQuery. The relationship between the two languages is unchanged; XPath 3.0 is largely a subset of XQuery 3.0. The Working Groups decided not to publish a new version of XQuery 1.0 and XPath 2.0 Formal Semantics. The rules for static type inferencing are now implementation-defined. Publication as a Candidate Recommendation means that XQuery 3.0 is largely complete and has been widely reviewed. The Working Groups are gathering implementation experience before requesting that the specification advance further.
Human papillomavirus risk perceptions and relationship status: a barrier to HPV vaccination?

The purpose of this study was to assess the association between relationship status and perceived risk for human papillomavirus (HPV) among young adults. College adults, aged 18–26 years, completed an online survey from November 2016–April 2017 (n = 385). The survey assessed HPV vaccination status, perceived HPV risk, and current relationship status. Logistic regression models estimated the odds of perceived high risk for HPV, stratified by vaccination status. Among unvaccinated women, relationship status and HPV risk perception were significantly associated, with dating women more likely (OR = 5.33, 95%CI 1.16–24.50) to perceive a high risk for HPV compared to women in a committed relationship. Women in relationships were less likely to perceive themselves at high risk for HPV, even though HPV infection is prevalent among young adults. This association is not present for vaccinated women, suggesting that relationship status and risk perceptions may represent barriers to HPV vaccine uptake.
Abstract MP64: Heart to Heart Connections Benefit Behavior Change

Cardiovascular disease is the number 1 killer of women. Substantial racial disparities compound the problem for Black women (BW) who are particularly vulnerable with higher rates of CVD mortality and morbidity compared to other women. BW exhibit risk factors (RFs) at younger ages and have a higher prevalence and greater clustering of multiple CVD RFs. The consequences of untreated CVD RFs for black women are more severe, with increased disability, decreased QOL, and higher mortality rates. The purpose of this community - based pilot was to test the feasibility of a program combining self-care education with wireless individualized feedback via a unique smartphone designed to appeal specifically to young YBW. Methods: Using church-based recruitment, 62 young BW (aged 25-45) were randomized to treatment (TX)(n=39) and control groups (n=23) by church site. The TX group participated in 4 interactive self-care classes on CVD RF reduction. Each participant set individualized goals. RF profiles (waist circumference (WC), BP, lipid panel by Cholestech [Alere]), medical history and the Medical Outcomes Study Adherence Scale were assessed prior to classes and 3 months later. Participants were given smartphones with embedded accelerometers and WANDA-CVD, an application that delivered prompts and messages specifically for this pilot. Participants obtained and transmitted BP measurements wirelessly. To identify the effects of the intervention over time (baseline-3 months), a longitudinal mixed model was used that included treatment by time interaction for outcomes. Results: Significant differences in time x treatment interactions favoring the TX group occurred in TC, LDL and adherence. (see graphs). Conclusion: These interim pilot data validate the feasibility of implementing a risk reduction program of combined education/wireless monitoring and feedback in YBW. Further testing in a large randomized trial is warranted to determine long-term effects on behavior change and cardiac RFs in this high risk population.
Multicultural Education Professional Development: A Review of the Literature:

When their teachers are well equipped to foster inclusive and equitable classrooms, students from marginalized communities show higher rates of academic achievement, motivation, self-confidence, an...
Does executive function moderate the relation between momentary affective and physical states and subsequent dietary lapse? An EMA investigation

The study explored whether baseline individual differences in executive function (EF) affect the relation between elevations in internal states and subsequent likelihood of lapsing from a dietary prescription. Participants were 189 adults with overweight/obesity in a behavioral weight loss treatment who completed a neuropsychological EF task at intake and a 2-week EMA protocol measuring internal states and dietary lapses at start of treatment. Generalized estimating equations found relations between momentary elevations in tiredness (b = .06, p = .01) and deprivation (b = .06, p = .047) and subsequent likelihood of lapsing were more robust for participants with lower EF, whereas the relation between momentary elevations in boredom and subsequent likelihood of lapsing (b = .04, p = .03) was more robust for participants with higher EF. Results provide support for EF impacting the relation between elevations in internal states and likelihood of dietary lapse, informing the development of personalized behavioral weight loss treatments.
Calcium Exchange in the Heart

This paper is intended to provide a review of recent work directed toward definition of the role of ionic exchange in control of the heart’s force development. This work has led us to a “working model” for calcium (Ca) movement and compartmentalization in heart muscle which is currently under investigation. The review is intended to provide a relatively succinct summary of the work and the reader is referred to the original references for more detailed description.
Feature Extraction using Spiking Convolutional Neural Networks

Spiking neural networks are biologically plausible counterparts of the artificial neural networks. Conventional (non spiking) artificial neural networks are trained using a stochastic gradient descent algorithm (back propagation) while spiking neural networks are trained using the spike timing dependant plasticity algorithm. Training conventional neural networks is a memory and computationally/energy intensive job. Spiking networks show the potential to reduce both memory and energy usage. In this work, we consider spiking neural networks (SNN) as a classifier of the MNIST and NM-NIST digits. We compare SNNs with convolutional neural networks in terms of classification accuracy, catastrophic forgetting.
Risk Factors of Nosocomial Infection in 383 Children with Hypospadias after Operation and Nursing Countermeasures

Objective To explore the main risk factors of hospital infection in children with hypospadias after operation and to formulate targeted nursing measures so as to provide accurate nursing strategies for effective prevention and control of hospital infection after operation. Methods Totally 383 children who underwent hypospadias surgery in the hospital from January 2016 to December 2017 were selected as the research objects. The clinical data of all cases were reviewed and sorted out. The hospital infection rate, infection site and main risk factors of hospital infection after operation were analyzed to formulate prevention strategies. Results 71 of 383 children suffered from hospital infection, and the incidence rate of hospital infection was 18.5%.The distribution of infection sites was: respiratory tract infection in 30 cases, accounting for 42.25%;Urinary tract infection was found in 25 cases (35.21%). Incision infection was found in 14 cases (19.72%).Gastrointestinal infection occurred in 2 cases (2.82%). Logistic multivariate analysis showed that age, length of hospital stay after operation were closely related to hospital infection. Conclusions The major risk factors for postoperative nosocomial infection in children with hypospadias are age and postoperative hospital stay.Nursing measures: The hospital stay of children after operation can be shortened as much as possible by reminding and standardizing the routine maintenance of urinary catheter and strengthening the cooperation between doctors and nurses through charts. Strict implementation of visiting and accompanying system, good environmental control, strengthening hand hygiene, standardization of preoperative skin preparation and other nursing measures are adopted to protect children to the greatest extent. Key words: Children after operation; Hypospadias; Hospital infection; Risk factors; Nursing countermeasures
Considering Integer Chance Constraints for Enforcing Flexible Line Flow Ratings.

Transmission line capacity ratings are often treated as a fixed nominal value; however, these ratings can be temporarily increased to a higher rating that can be leveraged when accounting for uncertainty in the system. In this paper, we introduce a chance constrained optimal power flow model to account for fluctuations in wind power generation with respect to line flow ratings. We propose a two-stage stochastic program where the optimal traditional generator dispatch is determined across wind power fluctuation scenarios. Flexible line flow ratings are incorporated into our model using integer chance constraints which limit the probability of non-nominal line capacity rating violations across all wind scenarios. We present simulation results on the RTS-GMLC test system to demonstrate the effectiveness of considering infrequent line violations on network congestion to reduce the total average wind power curtailment by 15%.
Load shifting at wastewater treatment plants: A case study for participating as an energy demand resource

Abstract Energy load shifting can allow for increased renewable energy integration and reduced greenhouse gas intensity of the electricity grid. Recent research has demonstrated that wastewater treatment plants have considerable potential to shift energy loads and act as energy demand resources due to their energetic flexibility and energy production capacity. This paper investigates a wastewater treatment plant in Santa Rosa, California, participating as a demand resource on the wholesale energy market through the proxy demand resource program. Test demand response events showed that the facility was able to shift its energy load by modifying select operations without impacting wastewater effluent quality. A cost-benefit analysis based on projected program participation and the results from the test events, estimates that the Santa Rosa wastewater treatment plant could achieve up to 4.8% energy cost savings through the proxy demand resource program. Two main issues were identified from the test events: (1) the difficulty of correctly timing demand reduction periods and (2) the inaccuracy of using standard baseline methods to measure the energy load reduction. As a supplement to the case study, this paper also presents a roadmap outlining the technology necessary for wastewater treatment plants to participate in demand resource programs through energy load shifting. The roadmap identifies key instrumentation and automation infrastructure, and assets that can be utilized to provide energetic flexibility; it also recommends additional infrastructure that can stabilize energy loads and enhance controlled energy load shifting.
Multimodality Imaging Approach to Ovarian Neoplasms with Pathologic Correlation

An understanding of the radiologic and pathologic features of the multiple subtypes of ovarian neoplasms can help radiologists determine benign from borderline or malignant causes, and a diagnostic...
Studies of Parasitic Wasps (Braconidae) In Grand Teton National Park

A survey of braconid wasps in GTNP and south YNP recognizes 71 genera and at least 150 species. Of these, 100 are new distribution records and at least nine are new (undescribed) species. The species richness of Braconidae in GYE (150 species) is substantially greater than the maximum species richness of all herbaceous plants, shrubs, trees, birds and mammals in lodgepole pine communities of YNP (112 species). This total also substantially exceeds the number of braconid species recorded in fireÂ­disturbed habitats of south YNP (109 species).
Organic optoelectronics:materials,devices and applications

The interest in organic materials for optoelectronic devices has been growing rapidly in the last two decades. This growth has been propelled by the exciting advances in organic thin films for displays, low-cost electronic circuits, etc. An increasing number of products employing organic electronic devices have become commercialized, which has stimulated the age of organic optoelectronics. This paper reviews the recent progress in organic optoelectronic technology. First, organic light emitting electroluminescent materials are introduced. Next, the three kinds of most important organic optoelectronic devices are summarized, including light emitting diode, organic photovoltaic cell, and photodetectors. The various applications of these devices are also reviewed and discussed in detail. Finally, the market and future development of optoelectronic devices are also demonstrated.
Energy absorbing cab guards for log trucks

This article examines the performance of an existing log truck cab guard subject to impact from the load of logs shifting forward during sudden truck deceleration, and considers modifications to th...
Documenting evidence of a reuse of ‘RefactoringMiner 2.0’

This submission is a report on the reuse of Tsantalis et al.'s Refactoring Miner (RMiner) package by Penta et al.
A Terrestrial Landscape Ecology Approach to the Critical Zone

Abstract Landscape ecology provides an important framework for Critical Zone research through: (1) integrating 3D dimensionality in the analysis of landscape systems; (2) contextualizing the Critical Zone processes both temporally and spatially; and (3) investigating problems related with scaling. Humans and their built environment are considered part of the landscape. The landscape ecology system perspective analyzes the landscape in terms of composition, structure, and function. Understanding the complexity of natural systems is a common goal of a variety of diverse disciplines in the Earth sciences and interdisciplinarity is a must. Landscape ecology focuses on distribution and changes in the horizontal plane, whereas Critical Zone research appears to focus more on vertical distributions and changes. A complementary approach would be to combine the two perspectives to form a perspective that combines the horizontality of landscapes with the processes occurring in the vertical direction. Therefore, attention should focus on the properties of the landscape system proper instead of attention being focused on the factors acting upon the land. Therefore, Critical Zone research and landscape ecology are complementary approaches that provide understanding from a transdisciplinarity approach.
Groundwater Drainage and Pollution

In many regions, groundwater constitutes an important source of fresh water for domestic, agricultural, or industrial use. The extraction of groundwater in excess of the annual recharge causes depletion, whereas an excess of recharge over extraction causes a buildup of groundwater. This chapter describes groundwater flow in confined and unconfined resources. The simplest example is the groundwater flow in confined aquifers through a horizontal layer of uniform thickness and properties, sandwiched between impervious layers. The flow takes place from one channel to another. If the water level in each of the two channels is maintained at a constant level, the flow takes place at a steady state. Water in unsaturated soil is affected by suction gradients and its movement is subject to variations in conductivity resulting from changes in soil wetness. The groundwater is always under positive hydrostatic pressure and hence saturates the soil. Thus, no suction gradients and no variations in wetness or conductivity normally occur below the water table. The hydraulic conductivity is maximal and fairly constant in time. Truly steady-state flow processes are rare in unconfined aquifers. More typical are transient-state processes that involve a change in water-table height.
The β3 subunit: a key regulator of vascular calcium channel expression (1057.10)

The pore-forming α1C subunit of the vascular L-type Ca2+ (CaL) channels upregulates during hypertension, which may contribute to increased arterial tone. Recently we reported that a small subunit o...
Uptake and subcellular distribution of vitamin B12 in mouse L1210 leukemic lymphoblasts.

Protein-mediated B12 uptake by L1210 lymphoblasts was shown to be calcium dependent and enhanced by TCII but not by TCI in vitro. Subcellular fractionation resulted in the majority of B12 localized in the soluble phase with significant amounts in the mitochondria. All vitamin B12 found in the soluble phase was bound to a protein similar in molecular weight to TCII. This protein was capable of delivering B12 to fresh L1210 cells.
Computational issues in large strain elasto-plasticity : an algorithm for mixed hardening and plastic spin

In this paper an algorithm for large strain elasto-plasticity with isotropic hyperelasticity based on the multiplicative decomposition is formulated. The algorithm includes a (possible) constitutive equation for the plastic spin and mixed hardening in which the principal stress and principal backstress directions are not necessarily preserved. It is shown that if the principal trial stress directions are preserved during the plastic flow (as assumed in some algorithms) a plastic spin is inadvertently introduced for the kinematic/mixed hardening case. If the formulation is performed in the principal stress space, a rotation of the backstress is inadvertently introduced as well. The consistent linearization of the algorithm is also addressed in detail. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Exercise capacity of cardiac asymptomatic hereditary hemochromatosis subjects.

Purpose: The exercise capacity of cardiac asymptomatic subjects with hereditary hemochromatosis (HH) has not been well described. In this study, we tested whether the iron overload associated with HH affected exercise capacity with a case control study design. Methods: Forty-three HH and 21 normal control subjects who were New York Heart Association functional class I underwent metabolic stress testing using the Bruce protocol at the clinical center of the National Institutes of Health. Exercise capacity was assessed with minute ventilation (V?E), oxygen uptake (V?O2), and carbon dioxide production (V?CO2) using a breath-by-breath respiratory gas analyzer. Results: The exercise capacity of HH subjects was not statistically different from that of control subjects (exercise time 564 ± 135 vs 673 ± 175 s, P = 0.191; peak V?O2 29.6 ± 6.4 vs 32.5 ± 6.7 mL·kg-1·min-1, P = 0.109; ventilatory threshold 19.0 ± 3.4 vs 21.0 ± 5.0 mL·min-1·kg-1, P = 0.099; data are for HH vs control subjects). Ventilatory efficiency was comparable between groups (V?E/V?CO2 slope 23.7 ± 3.2 vs 23.4 ± 4.2, P = 0.791). No significant correlation between the markers of iron levels and the markers of exercise capacity was noted. Iron depletion by 6-month phlebotomy therapy in 18 subjects who were newly diagnosed did not affect exercise testing variables (exercise time 562 ± 119 vs 579 ± 118 s, P = 0.691; peak V?O2 29.5 ± 3.7 vs 29.1 ± 4.7 mL·kg-1·min-1, P = 0.600; ventilatory threshold 18.5 ± 2.8 vs 17.9 ± 3.8 mL·kg-1·min-1, P = 0.651; data are from before and after phlebotomy therapy). Abnormal ischemic electrocardiographic responses and complex arrhythmias were more frequently seen in HH subjects. Conclusions: The aerobic exercise capacity of asymptomatic HH subjects seems not to be statistically different from that of normal subjects. The iron levels do not seem to affect exercise capacity in asymptomatic HH subjects.
Multivariate empirical mode decomposition for quantifying multivariate phase synchronization

Quantifying the phase synchrony between signals is important in many different applications, including the study of the chaotic oscillators in physics and the modeling of the joint dynamics between channels of brain activity recorded by electroencephalogram (EEG). Current measures of phase synchrony rely on either the wavelet transform or the Hilbert transform of the signals and suffer from constraints such as the limit on time-frequency resolution in the wavelet analysis and the prefiltering requirement in Hilbert transform. Furthermore, the current phase synchrony measures are limited to quantifying bivariate relationships and do not reveal any information about multivariate synchronization patterns, which are important for understanding the underlying oscillatory networks. In this paper, we address these two issues by employing the recently introduced multivariate empirical mode decomposition (MEMD) for quantifying multivariate phase synchrony. First, an MEMD-based bivariate phase synchrony measure is defined for a more robust description of time-varying phase synchrony across frequencies. Second, the proposed bivariate phase synchronization index is used to quantify multivariate synchronization within a network of oscillators using measures of multiple correlation and complexity. Finally, the proposed measures are applied to both simulated networks of chaotic oscillators and real EEG data.
Effect of ζ-globin substitution on the O2-transport properties of Hb S in vitro and in vivo

Abstract Hemoglobin ζ 2 β 2 S is generated by substituting embryonic ζ-globin subunits for the normal α-globin components of Hb S ( α 2 β 2 S ) . This novel hemoglobin has recently been shown to inhibit polymerization of Hb S in vitro and to normalize the pathological phenotype of mouse models of sickle cell disease in vivo. Despite its promise as a therapeutic tool in human disease, however, the basic O2-transport properties of Hb ζ 2 β 2 S have not yet been described. Using human hemoglobins purified from complex transgenic-knockout mice, we show that Hb ζ 2 β 2 S exhibits an O2 affinity as well as a Hill coefficient, Bohr response, and allosteric properties in vitro that are suboptimally suited for physiological O2 transport in vivo. These data are substantiated by in situ analyses demonstrating an increase in the O2 affinity of intact erythrocytes from mice that express Hb ζ 2 β 2 S . Surprisingly, though, co-expression of Hb ζ 2 β 2 S leads to a substantial improvement in the tissue oxygenation of mice that model sickle cell disease. These analyses suggest that, in the context of sickle cell disease, the beneficial antisickling effects of Hb ζ 2 β 2 S outweigh its O2-transport liabilities. The potential structural bases for the antisickling properties of Hb ζ 2 β 2 S are discussed in the context of these new observations.
Heterogeneous chemistry of octanal and 2, 4‐hexadienal with sulfuric acid

[1] Recent experimental studies using the environmental chamber have suggested that acid-catalyzed particle-phase reactions of organic carbonyls lead to multifold increases in secondary organic aerosol (SOA) mass, but the kinetics and mechanism of the heterogeneous chemistry of carbonyls with sulfuric acid remain largely uncertain. We report the first measurements of heterogeneous uptake of octanal and 2, 4-hexadienal on liquid H2SO4 in the acid range of 60 to 85 wt % and between 250 and 298 K. Octanal was physically absorbed by sulfuric acid without undergoing irreversible reaction. From the time-dependent uptake the effective Henry's law solubility constant (H*) was determined. Irreversible reactive uptake was observed for 2, 4-hexadienal, and the uptake coefficient decreased with decreasing acid concentrations. The uptake of octanal and 2, 4-hexadienal on liquid H2SO4 is explained by aldol condensation, dependent on acidity. The results suggest that aldol condensation of the aldehydes can be important in the upper troposphere, but may not significantly contribute to secondary organic aerosol formation in the lower troposphere.
Computer attitude as a moderator in the relationship between computer anxiety, satisfaction, and stress

The present study empirically examines the relationship between computer anxiety, job satisfaction, career satisfaction, and stress. Based on self-efficacy theory and self-worth theory of achievement-motivation, it is hypothesized that the relationship between computer anxiety and job satisfaction is curvilinear and attitude towards computer moderates such relationship. The relationship between computer anxiety and career satisfaction and job stress were empirically examined in this study. Two hundred and thirty undergraduate students (125 female and 105 male students) at a university in south-western part of Louisiana completed computer anxiety, computer attitude, job satisfaction, career satisfaction and stress surveys. Hierarchical moderated regression results support that the attitude towards computer acts as a moderator in the relationship between (i) computer anxiety and stress, (ii) computer anxiety and job satisfaction, and (iii) computer anxiety and career satisfaction. Implications for management are discussed.
Absolute Measurement of Low Energy Electron Deposition Profiles in Semi-Infinite Geometries

Two different techniques have been used to measure absolute electron energy deposition profiles in semi-infinite geometries. The first, employing an ionization chamber, was used to measure energy deposition by normally incident electrons at incident energies of 1.0, 0.5, and 0.3 MeV in aluminum, and 1.0 MeV in tantalum. The second method is unique in that it represents the first calorimetric measurement of energy deposition from a monoenergetic D. C. source. Results are given for normally incident electrons at an incident energy of 1.0 MeV in aluminum, and at incident energies of 1.0 and 0.5 MeV in tantalum. The latter method circumvents some of the difficulties inherent in the ion chamber technique and provides more precise results.
Biochemical and biological functions of docosahexaenoic acid in the nervous system: modulation by ethanol

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6n-3), an n-3 fatty acid highly concentrated in the central nervous system, is essential for proper neuronal and retinal function. While a high level of DHA is generally maintained in neuronal membranes, inadequate supply of n-3 fatty acid or ethanol exposure leads to a significant loss of DHA in neuronal cells. The roles of DHA in neuronal signaling have been emerging. In this review, biological, biochemical and molecular mechanisms supporting the essential function of DHA in neuronal survival and development are described in relation to n-3 fatty acid depleting conditions.
COSMIC-RAY ANISOTROPY IN THREE-DIMENSIONAL SPACE.

Abstract A systematic cosmic ray intensity gradient along the Earth's rotational axis, arising from a spatial anisotropy almost perpendicular to the plane of the ecliptic, has been observed for the first time. Analysis of data recorded by a network of high counting rate neutron monitors during the recovery phase of a Forbush decrease in March, 1966, revealed the occurrence of a significant north-south asymmetry. A theoretical model that accounts for all the observed effects, including the latitude dependence, is developed. The anisotropy is envisaged as arising from the diffusion of cosmic rays through disordered magnetic fields in the vicinity of the Earth, associated with a profusion of solar disturbances that were conspicuous during this period of resurgent solar activity. The two components of the vector in three-dimensional space that defines the direction of anisotropy are determined by combining the information deduced from the study of the north-south asymmetry with the associated diurnal variation. During one of the two epochs that has been studied in detail, the greatest flux of cosmic ray particles was incident from the direction in space −83.5° ± 3.5° declination and 13.3 ± 0.7 h right ascension. Thus, the configuration of magnetic fields of solar origin that enveloped the Earth at this time was not symmetrical about the equatorial plane. Alternative interpretations of this result are: (1) that the lines of force were temporarily directed almost perpendicularly to the solar equatorial plane permitting preferential flow of particles along this direction, or (2) that the lines of force were parallel to the equatorial plane, as usual, and the density gradient in the north-south direction was a consequence of the unsymmetrical spatial distribution of the cosmic ray “shield”.
Estimating residual variance in nonparametric regression using least squares

SUMMARY We propose a new estimator for the error variance in a nonparametric regression model. We estimate the error variance as the intercept in a simple linear regression model with squared differences of paired observations as the dependent variable and squared distances between the paired covariates as the regressor. For the special case of a one-dimensional domain with equally spaced design points, we show that our method reaches an asymptotic optimal rate which is not achieved by some existing methods. We conduct extensive simulations to evaluate finite-sample performance of our method and compare it with existing methods. Our method can be extended to nonparametric regression models with multivariate functions defined on arbitrary subsets of normed spaces, possibly observed on unequally spaced or clustered designed points.
School-University Partnerships: A Means for the Inclusion of Policy Studies in Music Teacher Education

The need for music educators to become more actively involved in policy issues, including analysis, design, implementation, and research, is critical to the future of music education. Bridging the gap between policy and practice requires a collaborative effort among music professionals. This article explores the inclusive use of policy studies in a music teacher education curriculum within a school-university partnership context. The process of creating a secondary instrumental music partnership is used to illustrate specific examples of how policy can be included in music teacher education programs. I demonstrate how the partnership created a curricular opportunity for preservice music teachers to investigate policy in an authentic context. Planning time, curricular scope and sequence, and the negative impacts of the curricular incorporation of policy on the self-efficacy of the preservice music teachers emerged as concerns for future consideration and review. Recommendations to address these concerns ar...
Toward Multi-Dimensional Values in Teaching: The Example of Conflict Behaviors

The article examines the role of values in business education and proposes a philosophy of education with respect to value positions. The author notes that due to increasing political and ethical issues being raised in business there has become a growing interest to include a value-oriented aspect in the business education curriculum. He examines how values play a role in areas such as conflict management and discusses some of the conflict-handling modes which include; competing, collaborating, compromising, avoiding and accommodating. He closes by discussing the need to develop teaching strategies that take into account differences in strengths and weaknesses between students in order for students to get the most out of their individual skills.
Fatal hemoptysis from Behcet's disease in a child

Abstract Objective: To present a case of pulmonary artery aneurysms (PAAs) in a child with Behcet's disease (BD). Nature of the study: Case report and review of the literature. Materials and methods: The patient had a complete autopsy, drug screen and serological testing. A medical history was obtained and the literature was reviewed. Results: A 10-year-old African–American boy had massive hemoptysis while at home and died shortly thereafter in the emergency department of a local hospital. He had had two other episodes of hemoptysis in the past 2 months. At autopsy, he had bilateral inflammatory aneurysms of the lower lobe branches of the pulmonary arteries. The left aneurysm had eroded into the adjacent bronchus and accounted for the fatal hemoptysis. The right ventricle had endocardial fibrosis. Systemic vasculitis was absent. The child did not have oral, genital, eye or skin lesions at autopsy, or by clinical history. Based on the autopsy findings, a diagnosis of BD was made. Conclusions: We present the very unusual case of a 10-year-old African–American boy who died from hemoptysis resulting from bilateral pulmonary aneurysms caused by BD.
Immersed finite element method

Abstract In this paper, the immersed finite element method (IFEM) is proposed for the solution of complex fluid and deformable structure interaction problems encountered in many physical models. In IFEM, a Lagrangian solid mesh moves on top of a background Eulerian fluid mesh which spans over the entire computational domain. Hence, the mesh generation is greatly simplified. Moreover, both fluid and solid domains are modeled with the finite element methods and the continuity between the fluid and solid sub-domains are enforced via the interpolation of the velocities and the distribution of the forces with the reproducing kernel particle method (RKPM) delta function. In comparison with the immersed boundary (IB) method, the higher-ordered RKPM delta function enables the fluid domain to have nonuniform spatial meshes with arbitrary geometries and boundary conditions. The use of such kernel functions may eventually open doors to multi-scale and multi-resolution modelings of complex fluid–structure interaction problems. Rigid and deformable spheres dropping in channels are simulated to demonstrate the unique capabilities of the proposed method. The results compare well with the experimental data. To the authors’ knowledge, these are the first solutions that deal with particulate flows with very flexible solids.
A Simulation Study to Derive the Optimal Cycle Length for Feeder Transit Services

This paper presents a simulation study to evaluate the capacity and the optimum service cycle time of a demand responsive transit â€œfeederâ€ service within the colonia of El Cenizo, TX. Demand data are taken from a survey questionnaire conducted to evaluate the existing travel patterns and the potential demand for a feeder service. Results showed that a single shuttle would be able to comfortably serve 150 passengers per day and that a fleet of 7-8 vehicles would be needed to serve the residential area. The optimal cycle length between consecutive departures from the terminal should be between 11-13 minutes for best service quality. This exploratory study can serve as a first step towards improving transportation services within these growing underprivileged communities, but also other residential areas, especially those with demographics and geometry similar to our target area of El Cenizo.
Fermentation scale-up: Problems and possibilities

Abstract Existing fermentation scale-up methods cannot meet adequately the technical and economic demands of the modern biotechnology industry. Shortcomings of available methods and potential routes to better ones are discussed in this article.
Alkyl polychlorinated dibenzofurans and related compounds as antiestrogens in the female rat uterus : structure-activity studies

Abstract The antiestrogenic activity of a series of alkyl-substituted polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs) were determined in the immature female Sprague-Dawley rat uterus. The compounds utilized in this study contain two, three, or four lateral substituents and include: 6-methyl-1,3,8-triCDF, 6-ethyl-1,3,8-triCDF, 6- n -propyl-1,3,8-triCDF, 6- i -propyl-1,3,8-triCDF, 6- t -butyl-1,3,8-triCDF, 8-methyl-1,3,6-triCDF (two lateral substituents); 6-methyl-2,3,8-triCDF, 6-methyl-2,3,4,8-tetraCDF, 8-methyl-1,3,7-triCDF, and 8-methyl-1,2,4,7-tetraCDF (three lateral substituents); 8-methyl-2,3,7-triCDF, 8-methyl-2,3,4,7-tetraCDF (four lateral substituents). Two additional compounds, 8-methyl-2,3,7-trichlorodibenzo- p -dioxin and 8-methyl-2,3;7-tribromodibenzo- p -dioxin (four lateral substituents), were also utilized. All of the alkyl-substituted compounds inhibited estrogen-induced uterine wet weight increase and cytosolic and nuclear progesterone and estrogen receptor binding. The effects of structure on the antiestrogenic potencies were determined using 6- i -propyl-1,3,8-triCDF, 6-methyl-2,3,4,8-tetraCDF, and 8-methyl-2,3,4,7-tetraCDF as representative congeners containing two, three, and four lateral substituents, respectively. The ED 50 values for antiestrogenicity were similar for the three compounds; however, the ED 50 values for induction of hepatic CYP1A1-dependent activity were 73,600 (estimated), 8.52, and 5.31 μmol/kg for 6- i -propyl-1,3,8-triCDF, 6-methyl-2,3,4,8-tetraCDF, and 8-methyl-2,3,4,7-tetraCDF, respectively. Since CYP1A1 can be used as a surrogate for toxic potency in the rat then high ED 50 (induction)/ED 50 (antiestrogenicity) ratios would be indicative of low toxicity and high antiestrogenic potency. The ratio was 13,990 to 17,100 for 6- i -propyl-1,3,8-triCDF, whereas the corresponding value for the compounds with three or four lateral substituents varied from 0.64 to 3.34. The results suggests that the 1,3,6,8-substituted alkyl PCDFs are useful structural models for developing new aryl hydrocarbon receptor-mediated antiestrogens for future clinical use as antiestrogens.
The Role of APP Processing and Trafficking Pathways in the Formation of Amyloid β-Proteina

The amyloid beta-protein (A beta) is a proteolytic fragment of the beta-amyloid precursor protein (beta APP). We previously reported the constitutive secretion of A beta peptides from a variety of cells expressing beta APP under normal culture conditions. These endogenously produced A beta peptides have heterogeneous N- and C-termini that vary as a function of beta APP missense mutations. Treatment of A beta-secreting cells with agents that alter intravesicular pH showed that an acidic compartment is required for proper A beta generation. One such compartment appears to be the endosome. Immunolabeling of cell-surface beta APP in living neurons and non-neuronal cells directly demonstrated the endocytosis of the protein and its rapid recycling (within 5-10 minutes) to the cell surface, as well as the trafficking of some beta APP to lysosomes. Expression of beta APP with various deletions of the cytoplasmic domain, including the NPTY motif, leads to decreased internalization and an associated decrease in the production of A beta peptides that begin at the usual asp1 start site. These and other data suggest that A beta production begins with cleavage of beta APP by a still unknown protease(s) (beta-secretase[s]) at the met-asp bond proceeding the A beta N-terminus and that this occurs in part in early endosomes. To characterize the substrate requirements of beta-secretase, beta APP was mutagenized by placing stop codons within or at the end of the transmembrane domain or substituting other amino acids for the wild-type met and asp at the P1 and P1' positions. These experiments showed that proper beta-secretase cleavage requires the precursor to be membrane-anchored and is highly sequence specific; most substitutions at met or asp substantially decrease A beta production. Analogous mutagenesis experiments around the A beta C-terminus revealed that the unknown protease(s) cleaving here ("gamma-secretase[s]") does not show such specificity. Cells secreting A beta may also be useful for examining the critical issue of the aggregation of A beta into its neurotoxic polymeric form under physiological conditions. In this regard, we have found that beta APP-expressing CHO cells show aggregation of > or = 10-20% of their secreted A beta peptides into SDS-stable dimers, trimers and sometimes tetramers under normal culture conditions. The identity of these small multimers was confirmed by extensive immunochemical characterization and radiosequencing. They are present at approximately 100-500 pM levels in conditioned medium of CHO transfectants. Using this endogenous A beta aggregating system, we have begun to examine variables that influence aggregation and compounds which may retard it. In conclusion, studies of the regulation of A beta production and aggregation in cell culture can provide information under physiological conditions that can complement analyses of these processes in vivo.
Hepatitis E virus: Cross-species infection and zoonotic risk

Abstract Hepatitis E virus (HEV), the causative agent of hepatitis E, is an important human pathogen responsible for a major proportion of enterically transmitted cases of acute viral hepatitis in many developing countries. Among the known hepatitis viruses, the high mortality rate of up to 25% observed in pregnant women is unique to HEV. Recent studies have shown that a significant proportion of healthy individuals in the United States and many other industrialized countries are positive for HEV antibodies, although acute hepatitis E occurs only sporadically in these countries. Increasing data have indicated that hepatitis E is a zoonotic disease, and that there exist animal reservoirs for HEV. Animal strains of HEV, antigenically and genetically related to human HEV, have been isolated and characterized from pigs (swine HEV) and chickens (avian HEV). Human HEV, swine HEV, and avian HEV have all been shown to infect across species. In addition to pigs and chickens, antibodies to HEV have also been detected in a number of other animal species, including rodents, chickens, dogs, cats, sheep, goats, cattle, and non-human primates; suggesting that these animal species have been exposed to HEV or a related agent. However, thus far, pigs are the only recognized potential animal reservoirs for HEV. It has been shown that pig handlers are at increased risk of zoonotic HEV infection. More recently, sporadic and cluster cases of acute hepatitis E have been linked to the consumption of raw or undercooked pig and deer meats, thus providing more direct evidence of zoonotic HEV transmission. This article briefly reviews the animal strains of HEV, their ability to infect across species, and potential zoonotic risks.
Boolean planarity characterization of graphs

Although many criteria for testing the planarity of a graph have been found since the beginning of the thirties, this paper presents a new criterion described by Boolean technique which is proved in an independent way without any use of the criteria obtained before.
Effect of Chronic Hypertonic Saline Ingestion on Vasopressin Gene Expression in the Rat

The present study was undertaken to examine vasopressin gene expression in response to a normal versus hypertonic sodium chloride (506 mOsm/kg H 2 O) intake for 7 days in Sprague-Dawley rats. The animals in both groups demonstrated precision in maintaining constancy of body fluid composition in spite of large differences in sodium and water intakes. Compared with the rats on a normal diet, chronic ingestion of hypertonic sodium chloride resulted in significant increases in total fluid intake (210 ± 8 mL v 471 ± 48 mL, P v 347 ± 48 mL, P v 5.9 ± 1.5 pg/mL, P v 0.86 ± 0.1 μg/pituitary, P P 2 O) were able to maintain sodium and water homeostasis over a 7-day period. Yet, in these animals plasma vasopressin increased, pituitary vasopressin stores decreased, and hypothalamic vasopressin gene expression was stimulated. These findings in the rat therefore implicate exquisite sensitivity for both vasopressin synthesis and secretion in response to a chronic hypertonic stimulus.
Is it time to prescribe statins to patients with calcified aortic stenosis

Aortic stenosis (AS) is a common disease especially in the older population. It is associated with high mortality and morbidity. Recent data suggest that coronary artery disease and AS share common risk factors. Retrospective studies suggest that statins might slow the progression of AS but there are no randomized clinical trial data available. It would seem that statins can be considered for medical treatment of AS; however, this needs to be investigated in future randomized clinical trials.
Episodic cases and real-time performance in a case-based planning system

Abstract In this article, we discuss COOKIE, an integrated planning, execution, and learning system that operates in the domain of meal planning and preparation. Its episodic representation scheme is used to avoid brittleness in planning, help attain real-time performance, and simplify the case acquisition process. An episodic representation of an event is one that allows reconstruction of the event—all of the actions, when they happened, what facts were true, and so forth. In COOKIE, this is a set of propositions in a temporal logic corresponding to the initial conditions, end conditions, goals, actions, and observations taken during the preparation of a meal. This representation is usable for a range of reasoning tasks: plan generation and projection, plan recognition, explanation, and failure recovery. This representation also promotes efficient real-time performance. The details present in the episode are maintained in the generated plans, providing the necessary information to schedule actions and observations before plan execution begins. We describe how our execution monitor was implemented to take advantage of this information while performing in an efficient manner.