cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Distinctive characteristics of subclasses of red–green P-cells in LGN of macaque

We characterized the chromatic and temporal properties of a sample of 177 red-green parvocellular neurons in the LGN of Macaca nemestrina, using large-field stimuli modulated along different directions through a white point in color space. We examined differences among the properties of the four subclasses of red-green P-cells (on- and off-center, red and green center). The responses of off-center cells lag the stimulus more than do those of on-center cells. At low temporal frequencies, this causes the phase difference between responses of the two kinds of cells to be considerably less than 180 deg. For isoluminant modulations the phases of on- and off-responses were more nearly 180 deg apart. A cell's temporal characteristics did not depend on the class of cone driving its center. Red center and green center cells have characteristically different chromatic properties, expressed either as preferred elevations in color space, or as weights with which cells combine inputs from L- and M-cones. Red center cells are relatively more responsive to achromatic modulation, and attach relatively more weight to input from the cones driving the center. Off-center cells also attach relatively more weight than do on-center cells to input from the class of cone driving the center.
Opposite regulation of cocaine-induced intracellular signaling and gene expression by dopamine D1 and D3 receptors.

: Repeated exposure to cocaine induces persistent neuroadaptations that involve alterations in cellular signaling and gene expression mediated by dopamine (DA) receptors in the brain. Both dopamine D1 and D3 receptors mediate cocaine-induced behaviors and they are also coexpressed in the same neurons in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) and caudoputamen (CPu). We have investigated whether these two receptors coordinately regulate intracellular signaling and gene expression after acute and repeated cocaine administration. We found that extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) activation and c-fos induction in the CPu following an acute cocaine administration is mediated by the D1 receptor and inhibited by the D3 receptor. ERK activation is necessary for acute cocaine-induced expression of fos family genes that include c-fos, fosB, and fra2. Furthermore, potential target genes of cAMP response element-binding (CREB) protein and/or AP-1 transcription complex, including dynorphin, neogenin, and synaptotagmin VII, are also oppositely regulated by D1 and D3 receptors after repeated cocaine injections. Lastly, such regulation requires proper ERK activation. These results suggest that D1 and D3 receptors oppositely regulate target gene expression by regulating ERK activation after cocaine administration.
Quaternary diffusion coefficients for the sucrose–NaCl–KCl–water system at 25 °C ☆

article i nfo Available online 23 May 2010 Transport properties of saccharide-salt aqueous mixtures are important for basic research and applications in the biochemical and biotechnological fields. We have experimentally determined the nine multi- component diffusion coefficients for the sucrose (0.25 M)+NaCl (0.50 M)+KCl (0.50 M)+H2O quaternary system at 25 °C. Our results are compared with those previously obtained for all the corresponding ternary systems and binary systems. A simple excluded-volume model can be used to successfully predict the effect of sucrose on salt cross-term diffusion coefficients for ternary and quaternary systems. We have found that the ternary cross-term diffusion coefficients can be used to make reasonable estimates of the corresponding quaternary coefficients. These estimates can replace the corresponding experimental data when they cannot be measured with satisfactory precision.
Adaptive decision-making frameworks for dynamic multi-agent organizational change

This article presents a capability called Adaptive Decision-Making Frameworks (ADMF) and shows that it can result in significantly improved system performance across run-time situation changes in a multi-agent system. Specifically, ADMF can result in improved and more robust performance compared to the use of a single static decision-making framework (DMF). The ADMF capability allows agents to dynamically adapt the DMF in which they participate to fit their run-time situation as it changes. A DMF identifies a set of agents and specifies the distribution of decision-making control and the authority to assign subtasks among these agents as they determine how a goal or set of goals should be achieved. The ADMF capability is a form of organizational adaptation and differs from previous approaches to organizational adaptation and dynamic coordination in that it is the first to allow dynamic and explicit manipulation of these DMF characteristics at run-time as variables controlling agent behavior. The approach proposed for selecting DMFs at run-time parameterizes all domain-specific knowledge as characteristics of the agents' situation, so the approach is application-independent. The presented evaluation empirically shows that, for at least one multi-agent system, there is no one best DMF for multiple agents across run-time situational changes. Next, it motivates the further exploration of ADMF by showing that adapting DMFs to run-time variations in situation can result in improved overall system performance compared to static or random DMFs.
X-ray microtomography (microCT) of the progression of sulfate attack of cement paste

Abstract High-resolution X-ray computed tomography (i.e., microCT or microtomography) was used to study the sulfate attack of cylinders of Type I cement paste cast with water–cement (w/c) ratios of 0.45, 0.50 and 0.60. Damage levels in samples exposed to a Na2SO4 solution with 10,000 ppm sulfate ion concentration were qualitatively rated from 0 (no damage) to 4 (extreme damage) based upon visual examination of the samples' exteriors and microtomography of the samples' interiors. The greater the w/c ratio, the more rapid the onset of sulfate damage. The corners of the cylinders appeared to be particularly susceptible to spalling, and damage may have continued into the cement paste by formation of subsurface cracks.
Identifying demand parameters in the presence of unobservables: A combined revealed and stated preference approach

We develop a combined, revealed and stated preference approach to identify discrete choice demand parameters in the presence of unobserved determinants of choice. Our approach overcomes difficulties associated with small choice sets, multicollinearity, and endogeneity that arise with revealed preference approaches. To illustrate our framework, we revisit two Canadian moose hunting datasets. Our empirical results suggest the potential gains from fusing revealed and stated preference data, but they also suggest its limitations when the data-generating processes for the data sources differ.
Warfarin pharmacogenetic trials: is there a future for pharmacogenetic-guided dosing?

“In clinical practice, it is common for warfarin to be initiated at a fixed dose for the first several doses.”
The Dynamics of Senatorial Representation, 1952-1991

We propose a dynamic model of representation that posits that representatives adapt through time to minimize the distance between policy choices and constituent, global, and personal preferences. Several hypotheses flow from the dynamic model: (1) equilibria develop through time in senator policy choice; (2) representatives adapt through time to global, as well as constituent preferences; (3) the manner in which adaptation occurs depends on the strength of the representative's personal ideology; (4) the manner in which adaptation occurs depends on various measures of constituency efficiency. We use pooled time-series cross-section analysis of covariance techniques to evaluate the preceding hypotheses. The analysis shows that senators integrate constituent, global, and personal preferences. Equilibria exist through time in Senator Policy Liberalism Adaptation to and from the equilibria depends on global and constituent preferences and efficiency. The manner of adaptation also depends on the strength of the...
The Ear Region of the Aardvark, Orycteropus afer (Pallas, 1766) (Mammalia, Placentalia, Tubulidentata)

ABSTRACT The ear region of the aardvark, Orycteropus afer (Pallas, 1766), including the auditory ossicles, is described and illustrated in detail based on five museum specimens (one from the United States National Museum and the remainder from Carnegie Museum of Natural History). Comparisons are made with the few published ear regions of extinct orycteropids, the late Miocene Amphiorycteropus abundalufus (Lehmann et al., 2005) from Chad, and Amphiorycteropus gaudryi (Major, 1888) from Greece, as well as with the enigmatic Plesiorycteropus Filhol, 1895, from the Quaternary of Madagascar. Orycteropus afer is considered to be the single living aardvark species, but as many as 18 poorly-defined subspecies are recognized across its sub-Saharan Africa range. The small sample studied here exhibits surprising morphological diversity for many features of the ear region, and some, but not all, differences fall along subspecific lines. The more striking differences concern the squamosal and alisphenoid epitympanic s...
Change in the vegetation mosaic of central Arizona USA between 1940 and 1989

The landscape of central Arizona U.S.A. is characterized by a patchy distribution of three major vegetation types: chaparral, woodland and grassland. Disturbance is common in the landscape, primarily livestock grazing, fire and conversion (i.e., removal of woody plants to increase forage for livestock). The purposes of this research were to determine changes in the landscape mosaic of central Arizona between 1940 and 1989 and to predict future changes. Using aerial photographs from 1940, 1968 and 1989 and digital overlays followed by transition matrix analysis, we found that chaparral and its adjacent grassland had changed less than woodland and its grassland. However, both had nearly equal projected stabilization times. Moreover, disturbance increased time for stabilization and some results were scale-dependent.
Noninvasive Estimation of LV Filling Pressures in Heart Failure and Reduced Ejection Fraction: Revisited and Verified

Echocardiography plays a key role in the evaluation of patients presenting with congestive heart failure (CHF). This includes diagnosis, prognosis, and guiding treatment decisions. Aside from the important measurements of left ventricular (LV) volumes and ejection fraction (EF), Doppler can be
Probability distributions of outputs of stochastic economic dispatch

Abstract This paper introduces an approach to carry the uncertainty about the wind speed through the optimization for the economic dispatching. This approach uses simulated wind speed data points for inputs to economic dispatch models and produces data for estimating the probability distributions of optimal fossil fuel generation outputs, transmission loss, and total cost of power generation. Large samples of simulated data allow statistical analyses of the outputs such as the mean, median, percentiles, and confidence intervals for each output variable, plots of distributions of all output variables, and correlation measures for examining relationships between pairs of the output variables. Through the proposed algorithm, a generation expansion planner can perform useful analyses without executing the algorithm repeatedly. The algorithm and its results are illustrated through an example of an economic dispatch model and a model for the distribution of the wind speed based on a forecast for the planning target time.
The results analysis of hygienic inspection quality control

Objective:To analyze hygienic inspection quality control results of different functional laboratories in Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,instruct laboratories taking logical and effective quality control measures during the inspection procedure.Methods: The 5 laboratories were organized to participate in various quality control activities,and the quality control results of them were evaluated.Results: The percent of pass to quality control result of physical and chemical laboratory is 77.78%,the result of other laboratories is satisfied.Conclusion: Laboratories made a satisfied result in activities such as proficiency testing(PT),inter-laboratory comparison,which help gaining confidence of inspecting staffs.Sense of responsibility of education for staffs should be enhanced,and sufficient quality supervising measures should be taken for new members and internal transfer members.Extending quality control scale of testing items,increase quality control method and activity frequency;improve staffs′ ability of causes analysis and data analysis.
Somatostatin receptors on canine fundic D-cells: evidence for autocrine regulation of gastric somatostatin

Somatostatin is known to have inhibitory effects on the release and action of a wide variety of gut peptides. Previous studies in vivo have suggested a potential inhibitory role for somatostatin even on its own secretion. To determine whether this autoregulatory effect is the result of a direct action of the peptide on the cell that is responsible for its secretion, we examined the effect of a non-immunoreactive but biologically active analogue of somatostatin ([Leu8-D-Trp22-Tyr25]S28) on release of somatostatin-like immunoreactivity (SLI) from isolated canine fundic D-cells. We identified somatostatin binding sites with dissociation constants of 1.2 X 10(-9) and 3.8 X 10(-8) M that coenriched with D-cells. Somatostatin 14, somatostatin 28, and [Leu8-D-Trp22-Tyr25]S28 were equivalent in displacing 125I-[Leu8-D-Trp22-Tyr25]S28 from the binding sites. [Leu8-D-Trp22-Tyr25]S28 inhibited SLI release from D-cells stimulated with (DBcAMP), and pentagastrin. Pertussis toxin pretreatment prevented the inhibitory effects of [Leu8-D-Trp22-Tyr25]S28 on both SLI secretion and cAMP accumulation by on both SLI secretion and cAMP accumulation by D-cells stimulated with epinephrine and forskolin. In contrast, [Leu8-D-Trp22-Tyr25]S28 inhibition of SLI release induced by DBcAMP and pentagastrin was not altered by pertussis toxin. Our data suggest that somatostatin autoregulates its own secretion via specific receptors on D-cells. This inhibitory effect is mediated by mechanisms that are both dependent on and independent of pertussis toxin-sensitive inhibitory guanine nucleotide binding proteins.
Estimating the Size of Juvenile Fish Populations in Southeastern Coastal-Plain Estuaries

ABSTRACT Understanding the ecological significance of man's activities upon fishery resources requires information on the size of affected fish stocks. The objective of this paper is to provide information to evaluate and plan sampling programs designed to obtain accurate and precise estimates of fish abundance. Nursery habitats, as marsh–tidal creeks and submerged grass beds, offer the optimal conditions for estimating natural mortality rates for young-of-the-year fish in Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico coast estuaries. The area-density method of abundance estimation using quantitative gears is more feasible than either mark-recapture or direct-count techniques. The blockage method provides the most accurate estimates, while encircling devices enable highly mobile species found in open water to be captured. Drop nets and lift nets allow samples to be taken in obstructed sites, but trawls and seines are the most economical gears. Replicate samples are necessary to improve the precision of density estimates, while evaluation and use of gear-catch efficiencies is feasible and required to improve the accuracy of density estimates. Coefficients of variation for replicate trawl samples range from 50 to 150%, while catch efficiencies for both trawls and seines for many juvenile fishes range from approximately 30 to 70%.
Uncertainty Quantification of Modelling of Equiaxed Solidification

Numerical simulations of metal alloy solidification are used to gain insight into physical phenomena that cannot be observed experimentally. Often validation of such models has been done through comparison to sparse experimental data, to which agreement can be misinterpreted due to both model and experimental uncertainty. Uncertainty quantification (UQ) and sensitivity analysis are performed on a transient model of solidification of Al-4.5 wt.% Cu in a rectangular cavity, with equiaxed (grain refined) solidification morphology. This model solves equations for momentum, temperature, and species conservation; UQ and sensitivity analysis are performed for the degree of macrosegregation. A Smolyak sparse grid algorithm is used to select input values to construct a response surface fit to model outputs. The response surface is then used as a surrogate for the solidification model to determine the sensitivities and probability density functions of the model outputs. Uncertain model inputs of interest include the secondary dendrite arm spacing, equiaxed particle size, and fraction solid at which the rigid mushy zone forms. Similar analysis was also performed on a transient model of direct chill casting of the same alloy.
Telemonitoring Adherence to Medications in Heart Failure Patients (TEAM-HF): A Pilot Randomized Clinical Trial

Background Medication nonadherence contributes to hospitalizations in recently discharged patients with heart failure (HF). We aimed to test the feasibility of telemonitoring medication adherence in patients with HF. Methods and Results We randomized 40 patients (1:1) hospitalized for HF to 30 days of loop diuretic adherence monitoring with telephonic support or to passive adherence monitoring alone. Eighty-three percent of eligible patients agreed to participate. The median age of patients was 64 years, 25% were female, and 45% were Hispanic. Overall, 67% of patients were nonadherent (percentage of days that the correct number of doses were taken <88%). There were no differences between intervention and passive monitoring group patients, respectively, in adherence (median correct dosing adherence 82% vs 73%; P = .41) or in the proportion readmitted within 30 days (30% vs 20%; P = .72). Eighty-eight percent of patients rated the wireless electronic adherence device as somewhat or very easy to use, and 88% agreed to use it again. Conclusions Adherence telemonitoring was acceptable to most patients with HF. Diuretic nonadherence was common even when patients knew they were being monitored. Future studies should assess whether adherence telemonitoring can improve adherence and reduce readmissions among patients with HF.
Rhodium Carbenoid Initiated O-H Insertion/Aldol/Oxy-Cope Cascade for the Stereoselective Synthesis of Functionalized Oxacycles.

A novel diazo-cascade approach has been developed for the synthesis of nine-membered oxacycles utilizing readily accessible β-hydroxy vinyl ketones and vinyl diazo esters. The Rh(II)-catalyzed cascade reaction begins with carbene O–H insertion followed by an intramolecular aldol cyclization to provide a substituted tetrahydrofuran intermediate that undergoes an oxy-Cope rearrangement to provide functionalized nine-membered oxacycles with complete stereoselectivity.
Unscheduled DNA Synthesis: A Functional Assay for Global Genomic Nucleotide Excision Repair

The unscheduled DNA synthesis (UDS) assay measures a cell's ability to perform global genomic nucleotide excision repair (NER). This chapter provides instructions for the application of this technique in living cells by creating 6-4 photoproducts and pyrimidine dimers using UVC irradiation, then allowing for their repair. Repair is quantified by the amount of radioactive thymidine incorporated after this insult, and the length of time allowed for this incorporation is specific for repair of particular lesions. Radioactivity is evaluated by grain counting after autoradiography. The results are used to diagnosis repair-deficient disorders clinically and provide a basis for investigation of repair deficiency in human tissues or tumors. At the present time, no other functional assay is available that directly measures the capacity to perform NER on the entire genome without the use of specific antibodies. Since live cells are required for this assay, explant culture techniques must be previously established. Host cell reactivation, as discussed in Chapter 28, is not an equivalent technique, as it specifically measures transcription-coupled repair at active genes, a subset of total NER.
No Child Left Behind: Liver Transplantation in Critically Ill Children.

Background Advances in critical care prolong survival in children with liver failure, allowing more critically ill children to undergo orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). In order to justify the use of a scarce donor resource and avoid futile transplants, we sought to determine survival in children who undergo OLT while receiving pre-OLT critical care. Study Design We analyzed 13,723 pediatric OLTs using the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) database from 1987 to 2015, including 6,746 recipients in the Model for End-Stage Liver Disease/Pediatric End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD/PELD) era (2002 to 2015). There were 1,816 recipients (26.9%) admitted to the ICU at the time of transplantation. We also analyzed 354 pediatric OLT recipients at our center from 2002 to 2015, one of the largest institutional experiences. Sixty-five recipients (18.3%) were admitted to the ICU at the time of transplantation. Kaplan-Meier, volume threshold, and multivariable analyses were performed. Results Patient survival improved steadily over the study period, (66% 1-year survival in 1987 vs 92% in 2015; p Conclusions This analysis demonstrates that the use of advanced critical care in children and infants with liver failure is justified because OLT can be performed on the sickest children and acceptable outcomes achieved. It is an appropriate use of a scarce donor allograft in a child who would otherwise succumb to a terminal liver disease.
Expectation Maximization Algorithm for Box–Cox Transformation Cure Rate Model and Assessment of Model Misspecification Under Weibull Lifetimes

In this paper, we develop likelihood inference based on the expectation maximization algorithm for the Box–Cox transformation cure rate model assuming the lifetimes to follow a Weibull distribution. A simulation study is carried out to demonstrate the performance of the proposed estimation method. Through Monte Carlo simulations, we also study the effect of model misspecification on the estimate of cure rate. Finally, we analyze a well-known data on melanoma with the model and the inferential method developed here.
A >22,000 yr diatom record from the plateau of Zambia

Diatoms and sediments were examined in a 530 cm core from Ishiba Ngandu, Zambia, a lake formed by gentle downwarping. Diatom zone D (>20 cal ka BP) was mostly sand with abundant Aulacoseira and Eunotia, suggesting a shallow lake perhaps kept fresh by spring inputs and lake discharge, except during deposition of the lowermost 66 cm. Gyttja deposition between about 22 and 20 cal ka BP suggested a deeper lake and a wetter climate, perhaps because the Congo Air Boundary (CAB) was farther southeast relative to modern times. The next zone, zone C (about 20–19 cal ka BP), was sand with abundant Achnanthidium and Eunotia but very few planktonic diatoms, apparently representing very shallow water and an arid period without the CAB. The gyttja and diatoms in zone B (19–4 ka) suggested an increase in moisture when the CAB returned. Zone A (4–0 cal ka BP) was dominated by the planktonic Aulacoseira (>89%), suggesting an increase in wind-driven mixing. Uniquely, Ishiba Ngandu likely has been relatively moist since the last glacial maximum, matching pre-Holocene wetness in Botswana but not its Holocene aridity; evidently the climate here had switched to that of East Africa.
Understanding factors affecting participation in online formative quizzes: an interview study.

A positive correlation between performance and participation in formative quizzes and final summative examinations has been reported many times. The goal of the present interview study was to const...
Forensic DNA Typing

Forensic DNA testing has rapidly become an invaluable tool for identifying suspects and proving guilt in criminal cases. But as DNA technologies evolve and databases grow, a broad range of issues concerning the science, statistics, and social policy of forensic DNA testing have surfaced. This article reviews some of the emerging challenges in the field.
Endovascular Stent-Graft Repair of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms

Abstract Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a major public health burden that continues to increase as the population ages. Prognosis associated with AAA rupture is grim, as mortality is high even if open surgical repair is instituted. Endovascular AAA repair (EVAR) is a revolutionary, minimally invasive alternative to open surgery that significantly reduced operative mortality from repair of either ruptured or intact aneurysms. Designed in the 1980s and first implanted in humans in 1990, the EVAR stent graft is composed of a self-expanding metallic stent frame covered with impermeable fabric. The stent graft is crimped into a catheter-based delivery system, most commonly via femoral artery access. While surgical cutdown is the most common method of vascular access, the percutaneous technique is rapidly gaining popularity as it is the least invasive of the access strategies. There are multiple EVAR devices currently available, most of which are modular in design. Each device has its own specific anatomic criteria for eligibility and instructions for use (IFU). Adherence to these criteria and IFU is strongly recommended, as off-label use is associated with significant increase in morbidity and mortality. While the efficacy and durability of the EVAR procedure is well established, short-term and long-term complications that require reintervention are not uncommon. These include four types of endoleaks. Periodic surveillance imaging is, therefore, mandatory after EVAR to prevent late aneurysm rupture by monitoring for aneurysm growth, endoleak, device migration, or mechanical failure.
The Form and Function of STEM Research Mentoring: A Mixed-Methods Analysis Focusing on Ethnically Diverse Undergraduates and Their Mentors

This mixed-methods study examines mentoring relationships in an ethnically diverse sample of undergraduates in majors related to science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Guided by an inte...
Correlation of Level of Trauma Activation With Emergency Department Intervention.

Background In-hospital trauma team activation criteria are formulated to identify severely injured patients requiring specialized multidisciplinary care. Efficacy of trauma activation (TA) criteria is commonly measured by emergency department (ED) disposition, injury severity score, and mortality. Necessity of critical ED interventions is another measure that has been proposed to evaluate the appropriateness of TA criteria. Methods Two-year retrospective cohort study of 1715 patients from our trauma registry at a Level 1 pediatric trauma center. We abstracted data on acute interventions, level and criterion of TA, ED disposition, and mortality. We report odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), positive predictive value, and frequency of acute interventions. Results Trauma activation was initiated for 947 (55%) of the 1715 patients. There were 426 ED interventions performed on 235 patients (14%); 67.8% were in level 1 activations; 17.6% in level 2, and 14.6% in level 3. Highest-level activations were highly associated with need for ED interventions (OR, 16.1; 95% CI, 11.5-22.4). The ORs for requiring an ED intervention were low for lower level activations (OR, 0.4; 95% CI, 0.3-0.5), trauma service consults (OR, 0.3; 95% CI, 0.2-0.4), and certain mechanism-based criteria. The ORs for ED intervention for isolated motor vehicle collision (0.2; 95% CI, 0.1-0.7), isolated all-terrain vehicle rollover (0.4; 95% CI, 0.1-1.7), and suspected spinal cord injury (0.5; 95% CI, 0.1-3.7) were significantly lower than 1. Conclusions Highest-level activation criteria correlate with high utilization of ED resources and interventions. Lower level activation criteria and trauma service consult criteria are not highly correlated with need for ED interventions. Downgrading isolated motor vehicle collision and all-terrain vehicle rollovers and suspected spinal cord injury to lower level activations could decrease the overtriage rate, and adding age-specific bradycardia as a physiologic criterion could improve our undertriage rate.
Determination of molten salt mass using 22 Na tracer mixed with 154 Eu and 137 Cs

A longstanding issue with irregularly shaped molten salt containers is the accurate determination of the contained salt mass. A technique known as radioactive tracer dilution was previously validated at a benchtop scale, and further investigated in this work to validate this method on a more significant salt mass (up to 122 g) and more realistic spectroscopic environment. Since the end use goal for this process is in an electrorefiner that reprocesses spent nuclear fuel, it was decided to add the abundant fission product 137Cs to a mixture of molten salt that contained a tracer isotope, 22Na, and interfering fission product, 154Eu. The study has proved that the tracer was homogeneously mixed with the salt, and the accuracy of the method is preserved even with the addition of 154Eu and a large amount of 137Cs activity. The self-attenuation from the volumetric salt sample and the dead time are recognized, but remedies are presented which rectify the issue.
Behavioral Mechanisms in the Pathophysiology of Coronary Heart Disease

Before we can consider the application of behavioral approaches in the prevention, treatment and rehabilitation of coronary heart disease (CHD) ╌ the central theme of this Section ╌ it is necessary to consider first the various means whereby behavioral factors appear to be playing a role in the etiology and course of CHD. In this chapter I shall first review the epidemiologic evidence indicating a role of behavioral factors in the precipitation of acute clinical events, the pathogenesis of the atherosclerotic plaque and the clinical outcome of relief of anginal pain with either medical or surgical management. Following this initial review, I shall consider the various physiological and neuroendocrine mechanisms whereby the associations shown in the epidemiological research might be mediated.
Energy-Efficient Processing of Spatial Alarms on Mobile Clients.

In this paper we present an energy efficient framework for processing spatial alarms on mobile clients, while maintaining low computation and storage costs. Our approach to spatial alarms provides two systematic methods for minimizing energy consumption on mobile clients. First, we introduce the concept of safe distance to reduce the number of unnecessary mobile client wakeups for spatial alarm evaluation. This mechanism not only reduces the amount of unnecessary processing of the spatial alarms but also significantly minimizes the energy consumption on mobile clients, compared to periodic wakeups, while preserving the accuracy and timeliness of the spatial alarms. Second, we develop a suite of techniques for minimizing the number of location triggers to be checked for spatial alarm evaluation upon each wakeup. This further reduces the computation cost and energy expenditure on mobile clients. We evaluate the scalability and energy-efficiency of our approach using a road network simulator. Our client based framework for spatial alarms offers significant improvements on both system performance and battery lifetime of mobile clients, while maintaining high quality of spatial alarm services, especially compared to the conventional approach of periodic wakeup and checking all alarms upon wakeup.
Regulators of the transsulfuration pathway

The transsulfuration pathway is a metabolic pathway where transfer of sulfur from homocysteine to cysteine occurs. The pathway leads to the generation of several sulfur metabolites, which include cysteine, GSH and the gaseous signalling molecule hydrogen sulfide (H2 S). Precise control of this pathway is critical for maintenance of optimal cellular function and, therefore, the key enzymes of the pathway, cystathionine β-synthase and cystathionine γ-lyase, are regulated at multiple levels. Disruption of the transsulfuration pathway contributes to the pathology of several conditions such as vascular dysfunction, Huntington's disease and during ageing. Treatment with donors of hydrogen sulfide and/or stimulation of this pathway have proved beneficial in several of these disorders. In this review, we focus on the regulation of the transsulfuration pathway pertaining to cysteine and H2 S, which could be targeted to develop novel therapeutics. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed section on Chemical Biology of Reactive Sulfur Species. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v176.4/issuetoc.
Educational Data Mining and Learning Analytics: Overview of Benefits and Challenges

Educational Data Mining (EDM) promises better understanding of student behavior and knowledge, as well as new information on the implicit factors that contribute to student actions. This knowledge can be useful in guiding at-risk students, identifying priority learning needs for different groups of students, increasing graduation rates, making informed decisions about pedagogy, identifying student behavior and learning patterns, and optimizing student success. This study provides an overview of the body of knowledge regarding Educational Data Mining and its application in teaching and learning. In this paper we highlight significant aspects of Big Data, including the Big Data technologies and the recent applications of Big Data in education. Finally, we explore and report on the challenges and difficulties encountered in EDM and present a discussion of future directions for the education and research community.
Predictors and Costs of 30-Day Readmissions After Index Hospitalizations for Alcohol-Related Disorders in U.S. Adults.

BACKGROUND In 2015, the Hospital Readmissions Reduction Program mandated financial penalties to hospitals with greater rates of readmissions for certain conditions. Alcohol-related disorders (ARD) are the fourth leading cause of 30-day readmissions. Yet, there is a dearth of national-level research to identify high-risk patient populations and predictors of 30-day readmission. This study examined patient- and hospital-level predictors for index hospitalizations with principal diagnosis of ARD and predicted the cost of 30-day readmissions. METHODS The 2014 Nationwide Readmissions Database was used to identify ARD-related index hospitalizations. Multivariable logistic regression was used to estimate patient- and hospital-level predictors for readmissions, and a 2-part model was used to predict the incremental cost conditional upon readmission. RESULTS In 2014, 285,767 index hospitalizations for ARD were recorded, and 18.9% of ARD-associated hospitalizations resulted in at least one 30-day readmission. Patients who were males, aged 45 to 64 years, Medicaid enrollees, living in urban and low-income areas, or with 1 to 2 comorbidities had high risk of readmission. Index hospitalization costs were higher among readmitted patients ($8,840 vs. $8,036, p < 0.01). Predicted mean costs for readmissions on index stay with ARD were greater among those aged 45 to 64 years ($1,908, p < 0.001), Medicare enrollees ($2,133, p < 0.001), rural residents ($1,841, p < 0.01), living in high-income areas ($1,876, p < 0.001), with 4 or more comorbidities ($2,415, p < 0.001), or admitted in large metropolitan hospitals ($2,032, p < 0.001), with large number of beds ($1,964, p < 0.001), with government ownership ($2,109, p < 0.001), or with low volume of ARD cases ($2,155, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS One in 5 ARD-related index hospitalizations resulted in a 30-day readmission. Overall, costs of index hospitalizations for ARD were $2.3 billion, of which $512 million were spent on hospitalizations that resulted in at least 1 readmission. There is a need to develop patient-centric health programs to reduce readmission rates and costs among ARD patients.
Hypothalamic: Pituitary Dysfunction as a Late Effect of Childhood Cancer, Brain Tumors, and Their Treatments

Hypothalamic pituitary (HP) dysfunction is frequently observed in survivors of childhood cancer and brain tumors. The main risk factors are tumor growth and/or surgery or radiotherapy involving the HP region. Radiation-induced HP dysfunction most frequently occurs as a late effect, months to years after the completion of cancer/tumor therapy. Systematic assessments where CCS are periodically screened based on their cancer/tumor treatment history allow the early diagnosis and treatment of this condition and can potentially ameliorate long-term health outcomes.
An application of the integrated framework of legitimacy to the state courts context

The current study uses data collected from defendants immediately after their hearings to test hypotheses regarding the relations among constructs relevant to perceptions of the state courts. Takin...
The Impact of Brand Equity and Issue-Involvement on Consumer Responses to Green Products

This study attempts to explain why many green products do not meet expectations of performance despite a large segment of consumers who profess to be "green". Previous research has typically examined consumers’ general level of "greenness", rather than their orientation toward a particular issue, in experimental settings with fictitious green brands. We examined two variables for their impact on consumer attitudes and purchase intentions toward green products. Brand equity was manipulated, producing high-equity and low-equity conditions. We also measured Issue-involvement, which takes into account the importance of a specific environmental issue to the consumer, and subjects were split into high issue-involvement and low issue-involvement categories. Subjects were eighty undergraduate business students who saw ads for a green (recycled) paper towel product that were identical except for the brand name (a well-known brand versus a fictitious brand).
Gold-patched graphene nano-stripes for high-responsivity and ultrafast photodetection from the visible to infrared regime

Graphene is a very attractive material for broadband photodetection in hyperspectral imaging and sensing systems. However, its potential use has been hindered by tradeoffs between the responsivity, bandwidth, and operation speed of existing graphene photodetectors. Here, we present engineered photoconductive nanostructures based on gold-patched graphene nano-stripes, which enable simultaneous broadband and ultrafast photodetection with high responsivity. These nanostructures merge the advantages of broadband optical absorption, ultrafast photocarrier transport, and carrier multiplication within graphene nano-stripes with the ultrafast transport of photocarriers to gold patches before recombination. Through this approach, high-responsivity operation is realized without the use of bandwidth-limiting and speed-limiting quantum dots, defect states, or tunneling barriers. We demonstrate high-responsivity photodetection from the visible to infrared regime (0.6 A/W at 0.8 μm and 11.5 A/W at 20 μm), with operation speeds exceeding 50 GHz. Our results demonstrate improvement of the response times by more than seven orders of magnitude and an increase in bandwidths of one order of magnitude compared to those of higher-responsivity graphene photodetectors based on quantum dots and tunneling barriers.
Activation of Notch Signaling by Oocytes and Jag1 in Mouse Ovarian Granulosa Cells

The Notch pathway plays diverse and complex roles in cell signaling during development. In the mammalian ovary, Notch is important for the initial formation and growth of follicles, and for regulating the proliferation and differentiation of follicular granulosa cells during the periovulatory period. This study seeks to determine the contribution of female germ cells toward the initial activation and subsequent maintenance of Notch signaling within somatic granulosa cells of the ovary. To address this issue, transgenic Notch reporter (TNR) mice were crossed with Sohlh1-mCherry (S1CF) transgenic mice to visualize Notch-active cells (EGFP) and germ cells (mCherry) simultaneously in the neonatal ovary. To test the involvement of oocytes in activation of Notch signaling in ovarian somatic cells, we ablated germ cells using busulfan, a chemotherapeutic alkylating agent, or investigated KitWv/Wv (viable dominant white-spotting) mice that lack most germ cells. The data reveal that Notch pathway activation in granulosa cells is significantly suppressed when germ cells are reduced. We further demonstrate that disruption of the gene for the Notch ligand Jag1 in oocytes similarly impacts Notch activation and that recombinant JAG1 enhances Notch target gene expression in granulosa cells. These data are consistent with the hypothesis that germ cells provide a ligand, such as Jag1, that is necessary for activation of Notch signaling in the developing ovary.
Middle Level Education in Rural Communities: Implications for School Leaders.

Middle level teachers and administrators working in small or rural schools often face unique obstacles in implementing recommended middle level practices. From sharing staff and schedules with other school sites, to inappropriate instructional techniques, to a general lack of understanding of the middle level philosophy, these obstacles can be a source of frustration for school leaders and hinder school improvement initiatives. A better understanding of these issues and the discussion of potential solutions will benefit teachers, administrators, and policy makers in improving middle level education in rural communities. By building on the positive characteristics found in rural and smaller schools, as well as identifying and addressing the obstacles encountered at smaller schools, middle level leaders can create and maintain distinctive and effective programs for their students.
Noncontextuality Inequalities from Antidistinguishability

An approach based on antidistinguishability is introduced to derive noncontextuality inequalities and to give tighter bounds on noncontextuality for some states. Antidistinguishability was formerly used to derive overlap bounds for the reality of the wave function, therefore, the paper also gives conceptual insight by providing links between previously disconnected results.
The effect of receiving versus being denied an abortion on making and achieving aspirational 5-year life plans.

Background Popular support for access to abortion and contraceptive services is often based on the idea that they will help women determine the trajectory of their life course. This study examined whether receiving versus being denied an abortion affects aspirational life goal setting and attainment 5 years later. Methods We compared women who sought and were denied an abortion because they were 3 weeks beyond the gestational limit (‘Parenting-Turnaways’) to those who received an abortion in the first trimester (‘First-Trimesters’); received an abortion within 2 weeks of the facility’s gestational limit (‘Near-Limits’); and sought an abortion, were turned away and received an abortion elsewhere or placed their baby for adoption (‘Non-Parenting-Turnaways’). We used mixed effects logistic regression analyses to estimate the odds of setting an aspirational plan and to estimate the odds of both setting and achieving an aspirational 5-year plan. Results At 1 week post abortion-seeking, 791 women reported 1864 5-year plans, most of which were aspirational (n=1692, 91%). Parenting-Turnaways had lower odds of setting an aspirational 5-year plan than Near-Limits (OR 0.36, 95% CI 0.18 to 0.73). There were no differences by group in achieving aspirational 5-year plans among those who had them. Conclusions Soon after abortion-seeking, women denied a wanted abortion were less optimistic about their long-term futures than women who received a wanted abortion. Abortion access can help women set positive long-term goals.
Traversing the Muddy Waters: Considering the Non-traditional Working Journey of a High-Achieving Black Female Working Scholar

Pursuing a career after graduating with a doctoral degree can be incredibly frightening. There are a wealth of considerations in decision making, as well as, expectations from others. The traditional route upon graduation from a higher education program is to pursue the college professoriate. Often, doctoral graduates are poised to enter the world of academia and are groomed for this pursuit. However, this author’s journey was atypical. Though the author’s journey was non-traditional, she ultimately grew comfort in her postdoctoral journey. She embraced the path set before her and the lessons learned along the way. This chapter outlines the life and career milestones of a high-achieving Black female working scholar. It outlines decisions to pursue a doctoral degree, the support gathered during the process, and the hardship surrounding the numerous decision-making processes thereafter. Lastly, this chapter provides implications for practice, targeting different populations who play a role in the doctoral student’s journey.
A Bias Trick for Centered Robust Principal Component Analysis (Student Abstract).

Outlier based Robust Principal Component Analysis (RPCA) requires centering of the non-outliers. We show a “bias trick” that automatically centers these non-outliers. Using this bias trick we obtain the first RPCA algorithm that is optimal with respect to centering.