bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Counting, Generating, Analyzing and Sampling Tree Alignments
Authors: Chauve Cedric , Courtiel Julien , Ponty Yann
Published: August 2018

Pairwise ordered tree alignment are combinatorial objects that appear in important applications, such as RNA secondary structure comparison. However, the usual representation of tree alignments as supertrees is ambiguous, i.e. two distinct supertrees may induce identical sets of matches between identical pairs of trees. This ambiguity is uninformative, and detrimental to any probabilistic analysis.

In this work, we consider tree alignments up to equivalence. Our first result is a precise asymptotic enumeration of tree alignments, obtained from a context-free grammar by mean of basic analytic combinatorics. Our second result focuses on alignments between two given ordered trees [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. By refining our grammar to align specific trees, we obtain a decomposition scheme for the space of alignments, and use it to design an efficient dynamic programming algorithm for sampling alignments under the Gibbs-Boltzmann probability distribution. This generalizes existing tree alignment algorithms, and opens the door for a probabilistic analysis of the space of suboptimal alignments.
Ab initio study of the effect of hydrogen adsorption on the electronic, magnetic and optical behavior of M-graphene (M = O, F) sheet
Authors: Ismail Ali I. , Mubarak A. A.
Published: August 2018

Adsorption of hydrogen atoms on pure and modified graphene layers was studied by density functional theory (DFT). Modifications were made to the graphene layers by adding M adatom (M [Formula: see text] O or F). The relaxed structures, energetic, electronic and magnetic properties of the M-graphene, H-graphene and M-graphene-NH layers were studied theoretically using the full-potential linearized augmented plane wave (FP-LAPW) within the generalized gradient approximation (GGA). The results showed that the presence of O or F as adatom on graphene allowed the stability of multi-H atom adsorption with a large and positive adsorption energy. A bandgap opening was observed for O-graphene-3H and O-graphene-4H sheets. Also, O-graphene, O-graphene-H and F-graphene-NH were found to have metallic behavior. O-graphene-3H sheet was found to have a half-metallic ferromagnetic behavior since its total magnetic moments is equal to an integer. In addition, the band structure shows that O-graphene-3H sheet is a semiconductor. Useful optical applications are predicted for M-graphene-NH sheet due to the absorption and reflectivity results.
A stochastic airplane boarding model in a framework of ASEP with distinguishable particles
Authors: Qiang ShengJie , Jia Bin , Huang QingXia
Published: August 2018

The asymmetric simple exclusion process (ASEP) is a paradigmatic model for nonequilibrium systems and has been used in many applications. Airplane boarding provides another interesting example where this framework can be applied. We propose a simple model for boarding process, in which a particle moves along a one-dimensional aisle after being injected, and finally is removed at a reserved site. Different from the typical ASEP model, particles are removed in a disorderly or a parallel way. Detailed calculations and discussions of some related characteristics, such as mean boarding time and parallelism indicator, are provided based on Monte-Carlo simulations. Results show that three phases exist in the boarding process: free-flow, jamming and maximum current. Transitions between these phases are governed by the difference between the injection and removal rate. Further analysis shows how the scaling behavior depends on the system size and the boarding conditions. Those results emphasize the importance of utilizing the whole length of the aisle to reduce the boarding time when designing an efficient boarding strategy.
How the spin-orbit interaction appears with the same order of a non-commutative change of framework for relativistic fermions
Authors: Derakhshani Z. , Ghominejad M.
Published: August 2018

In this research, in a difficult but absolutely precise way of calculation, we show how a very tiny amount of a non-commutative change of quantum space would appear almost as big as a normal physical interaction, namely the Rashba spin-orbit interaction, for relativistic fermions. Hence, in order to show that, we firstly solve a relativistic equation of motion of a Dirac particle, influenced by a typical harmonic energy-dependent interaction for commutative and non-commutative frameworks via the Nikiforov–Uvarov exact approach. Then to study perturbation effects of a spin-orbit interaction, we apply it for both mentioned frameworks, obtaining their energy polynomial relations and discriminant formula to precisely extract all physical-admissible roots of their quartic equations. In this step, we analyze the behaviors of their quartic eigenvalue polynomials in four sections and accurately compare them one by one. Finally, we distinctly show that the magnitude of the physical spin-orbit perturbation appears, almost of the same order of imposing a non-commutative geometry change of framework, as an outstanding result.
Positive features of crystal extraction of protons and carbon ions from the U-70 on basis of long-term experience
Authors: Afonin A. G. , Baranov V. T. , Barnov E. V. , Britvich G. I. , Chesnokov Yu. A. , Chirkov P. N. , Kalinin V. A. , Maisheev V. A. , Reshetnikov S. F. , Savin D. A. , Terekhov V. I.
Published: August 2018

Works on the steering of particle beams using channeling in aligned bent crystals have been carried out at IHEP over a number of years. Comprehensive theoretical and experimental studies have led to the creation of actually operating systems on the U-70 accelerator. In particular, a slow proton beam extraction with unprecedentedly high parameters, an extraction efficiency of about 85% at a beam intensity of 10[Formula: see text] particles per cycle, has been realized on U-70 using particle channeling in short bent crystals. In recent years, successful experiments on the extraction of carbon ions were performed. At present, crystal elements are used in regular U-70 runs and provide half of the particle beams for physical experiments. Here, we summarize the results of this unique experience in the world practice of accelerators and outline its prospects.
Non-Probabilistic Inverse Fuzzy Model in Time Series Forecasting
Authors: Efendi Riswan , Deris Mustafa Mat
Published: August 2018

Many models and techniques have been proposed by researchers to improve forecasting accuracy using fuzzy time series. However, very few studies have tackled problems that involve inverse fuzzy function into fuzzy time series forecasting. In this paper, we modify inverse fuzzy function by considering new factor value in establishing the forecasting model without any probabilistic approaches. The proposed model was evaluated by comparing its performance with inverse and noninverse fuzzy time series models in forecasting the yearly enrollment data of several universities, such as Alabama University, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), and QiongZhou University; the yearly car accidents in Belgium; and the monthly Turkish spot gold price. The results suggest that the proposed model has potential to improve the forecasting accuracy compared to the existing inverse and non-inverse fuzzy time series models. This paper contributes to providing the better future forecast values using the systematic rules.
Defensive Plays in Repeated Games
Authors: Aramendia Miguel , Wen Quan
Published: August 2018

In obtaining the classical folk theorems for repeated games, the players must collectively coordinate their actions, even after someone deviates. In this paper, we explore the impacts of defensive plays on the set of equilibrium payoffs when all players have sufficiently high discount factor. Once some player deviates, everyone else will play the continuation game defensively by refusing to coordinate with the deviator and hence always choose their best responses in all subsequent periods. We show that this line of reasoning can significantly limit what can be supported by equilibrium in certain classes of repeated games. We characterize the set of limiting equilibrium payoffs under defensive plays.
The real genus spectrum of abelian groups
Authors: May Coy L. , Zimmerman Jay
Published: August 2018

Let [Formula: see text] denote the set of positive integers that may appear as the real genus of a finite abelian group. We obtain a set of (simple) necessary conditions for an integer [Formula: see text] to belong to [Formula: see text]. We also prove that the real genus of an abelian group is not congruent to 3 modulo 4 and that the genus of an abelian group of odd order is a multiple of 4. Finally, we obtain upper and lower bounds for the density of the set [Formula: see text].
Novel carboxylic acid terminated silicon(IV) and zinc(II) phthalocyanine photosensitizers: Synthesis, photophysical and photochemical studies
Authors: Hışır Arif , Köse Gülşah Gümrükcü , Atmaca Göknur Yaşa , Erdoğmuş Ali , Karaoğlan Gülnur Keser
Published: August 2018

In order to improve the efficacy of photochemical properties for photodynamic therapy (PDT) applications, carboxylic acid groups axially conjugated with silicon(IV) and at the peripheral position with zinc(II) phthalocyanine skeletons for new photosensitizers to investigate the influence of the COOH group positions on the photophysicochemical performance are described in this study. Silicon (IV) (3 and 5) and zinc (II) (7) phthalocyanines were characterized by UV-vis, FTIR, 1H-NMR, MALDI-TOF MS and elemental analysis spectral data. Furthermore, the photophysical (fluorescence quantum yields and fluorescence quenching studies), photochemical (photodegradation and singlet oxygen generation) and aggregation properties of the newly synthesized phthalocyanines were investigated in dimethylformamide (DMF) and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) solutions. The results were compared with that of zinc and silicon phthalocyanines. Singlet oxygen quantum yields ranged from 0.23 to 0.63 via Type II mechanism under the experimental conditions studied. The fluorescence of the phthalocyanine complexes (3, 5 and 7) is effectively quenched by 1,4-benzoquinone (BQ) in DMSO, DMF and THF.
An Efficient Catalyst for Restoration of Large Volume Effluent Containing 4-Nitrophenol at Room Temperature
Authors: Yan Hao , Xue Mengru , Li Xiangqing , Qin Lixia , Kang Shi-Zhao
Published: August 2018

An efficient and stable catalyst was prepared utilizing reduced graphene oxide, Ag nanoparticles and melamine sponge for the restoration of large volume effluent containing 4-nitrophenol at room temperature. And the as-prepared sample is suitable for continuous flow system. Almost 99% 4-nitrophenol ([Formula: see text][Formula: see text]mol[Formula: see text]L[Formula: see text], 100[Formula: see text]mL) can be removed within 4[Formula: see text]min in the presence of the aforementioned sample. Moreover, it also exhibits remarkable stability in continuous flow system. This may offer a new route to the fabrication of efficient flowing catalytic system.
The N, N-Dimethylformamide Annealing for Enhanced Performance of Perovskite Solar Cells Fabricated in Ambient Air
Authors: Yang Xiude , Liu Debei , Li Ping , Wu Bo , Huang Haishen , Zhou Tingyan , Zhou Guangdong
Published: August 2018

By adopting N, N-Dimethylformamide (DMF) atmosphere annealing at room temperature, planar perovskite solar cells with a p-i-n structure of ITO/PEDOT:PSS/Perovskite/PCBM/C[Formula: see text]/Al are fabricated by a simple one-step solution process in ambient air with humidity around 50%, and the influence of DMF atmosphere on perovskite solar cells (PSCs) is systematically investigated. Compared to the reference device without DMF reaction, the perovskite films treated by modest DMF annealing show a better distribution and a higher densification, and thus the power conversion efficiency (PCE), short circuit current density ([Formula: see text] and fill factor (FF) are increased by about 17%, 8% and 6%, respectively. This work displays the importance of solvent annealing for perovskite film prepared by the one-step spin-coating method, and possibly provides a simple and cost-effective way to efficiently fabricate PSCs in ambient air.
Thermal Modeling of Solar Dryer — Numerical Simulation, Analysis and Performance Evaluation
Authors: Oueslati Hatem , Mabrouk Salah Ben , Mami Abdelkader
Published: August 2018

This work aims to establish a mathematical model for studying, describing and evaluating the thermal performance of a solar drying device. Therefore, in order to be able to test the theory by numerical simulation, it is necessary to have a model of the device and values of the realistic parameters. A model based on bond graphs methodology is developed to represent the critical energetic relations; thermal analysis of the solar dryer was investigated based on thermal balance equations to predict its performance and the mass transfer phenomena are mostly analyzed through the study of the drying kinetics. Comparison of the results with experimental data suggests the model is reasonable for sizing such a solar dryer.
Decreased Suppression and Increased Phosphorylated STAT3 in Regulatory T Cells are Associated with Benefit from Adjuvant PD-1 Blockade in Resected Metastatic Melanoma
Authors: Woods David M. , Ramakrishnan Rupal , Laino Andressa S. , Berglund Anders , Walton Kelly , Betts Brian C. , Weber Jeffrey S.
Published: August 2018

Purpose:

PD-1 blockade induces durable responses in patients with metastatic melanoma and prolongs relapse-free survival in patients with resected melanoma; however, current biomarkers do not consistently associate with patient responses. In this study, we investigated the impact of nivolumab therapy on peripheral blood regulatory T cells (Treg) and its relation to patient outcomes.

Experimental Design:

Peripheral blood Tregs and conventional CD4+ T cells from patients with resected high-risk melanoma treated with adjuvant nivolumab were assessed for gene expression changes by RNA-seq. Percentages of circulating Tregs and phosphorylated-STAT3 (pSTAT3) expression levels were assessed by flow cytometry and validated in an independent cohort of active disease patients. Suppressive function of Tregs was assessed in allogeneic mixed lymphocyte reactions.

Results:

Tregs from non-relapse patients had increased expression of proliferation associated genes. An increase in the proportion of circulating Tregs and pSTAT3 expression and a reduction in Treg-suppressive capacity were observed in non-relapsing, but not relapsing patient samples 13 weeks after starting treatment. In vitro blockade of PD-1 increased Treg percentages and pSTAT3 expression, and reduced Treg-suppressive function. PD-1 blockade also led to IL10 production by T cells, resulting in higher Treg proliferation. The addition of a STAT3 inhibitor ameliorated the increase in Tregs, enhanced suppressive function, and decreased T-cell IL10 production in vitro.

Conclusions:

These results demonstrate that induction of pSTAT3, reduced suppressive function, and a paradoxical increase in Treg proliferation are novel correlates of patient benefit from PD-1 blockade.
Germline and Somatic DNA Damage Repair Gene Mutations and Overall Survival in Metastatic Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma Patients Treated with FOLFIRINOX
Authors: Sehdev Amikar , Gbolahan Olumide , Hancock Brad A. , Stanley Melissa , Shahda Safi , Wan Jun , Wu Howard H. , Radovich Milan , O’Neil Bert H.
Published: August 2018

Purpose:

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a lethal cancer with lack of predictive biomarkers. We conducted a study to assess DNA damage repair (DDR) gene mutations as a predictive biomarker in PDAC patients treated with FOLFIRINOX.

Experimental Design:

Indiana University Simon Cancer Center pancreatic cancer database was used to identify patients with metastatic PDAC, treated with FOLFIRINOX and had tissue available for DNA sequencing. Baseline demographic, clinical, and pathologic information was gathered. DNA isolation and targeted sequencing was performed using the Ion AmpliSeq protocol. Overall survival (OS) analysis was conducted using Kaplan–Meier, logistic regression and Cox proportional hazard methods. Multivariate models were adjusted for age, gender, margin status, CA 19-9, adjuvant chemotherapy, tumor and nodal stage.

Results:

Overall, 36 patients were sequenced. DDR gene mutations were found in 12 patients. Mutations were seen in BRCA1 (N = 7), BRCA2 (N = 5), PALB2 (N = 3), MSH2 (N = 1), and FANCF (N = 1) of all the DDR genes sequenced. Median age was 65.5 years, 58% were male, 97.2% were Caucasian and 51.4% had any family history of cancer. The median OS was near significantly superior in those with DDR gene mutations present vs. absent [14 vs. 5 months; HR, 0.58; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.29–1.14; log-rank P = 0.08]. Multivariate logistic (OR, 1.47; 95% CI, 1.04–2.06; P = 0.04) and Cox regression (HR, 0.37; 95% CI, 0.15–0.94; P = 0.04) showed presence of DDR gene mutations was associated with improved OS.

Conclusions:

In a single institution, retrospective study, we found that the presence of DDR gene mutations are associated with improved OS in PDAC patients treated with FOLFIRINOX.
First-in-Human Phase I Trial of a Tumor-Targeted Cytokine (NHS-IL12) in Subjects with Metastatic Solid Tumors
Authors: Strauss Julius , Heery Christopher R. , Kim Joseph W. , Jochems Caroline , Donahue Renee N. , Montgomery Agnes S. , McMahon Sheri , Lamping Elizabeth , Marté Jennifer L. , Madan Ravi A. , Bilusic Marijo , Silver Matthew R. , Bertotti Elisa , Schlom Jeffrey , Gulley James L.
Published: August 2018

Purpose:

The NHS-IL12 immunocytokine is composed of two IL12 heterodimers fused to the NHS76 antibody. Preclinical studies have shown that this antibody targets IL12 to regions of tumor necrosis by binding histones on free DNA fragments in these areas, resulting in enhanced antitumor activity. The objectives of this phase I study were to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and pharmacokinetics of NHS-IL12 in subjects with advanced solid tumors.

Patients and Methods:

Subjects (n = 59) were treated subcutaneously with NHS-IL12 in a single ascending-dose cohort followed by a multiple ascending-dose cohort (n = 37 with every 4-week dosing).

Results:

The most frequently observed treatment-related adverse events (TRAE) included decreased circulating lymphocytes, increased liver transaminases, and flu-like symptoms. Of the grade ≥3 TRAEs, all were transient and only one was symptomatic (hyperhidrosis). The MTD is 16.8 μg/kg. A time-dependent rise in IFNγ and an associated rise in IL10 were observed following NHS-IL12. Of peripheral immune cell subsets evaluated, most noticeable were increases in frequencies of activated and mature natural killer (NK) cells and NKT cells. Based on T-cell receptor sequencing analysis, increases in T-cell receptor diversity and tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte density were observed after treatment where both biopsies and peripheral blood mononuclear cells were available. Although no objective tumor responses were observed, 5 subjects had durable stable disease (range, 6–30+ months).

Conclusions:

NHS-IL12 was well tolerated up to a dose of 16.8 μg/kg, which is the recommended phase II dose. Early clinical immune-related activity warrants further studies, including combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors.

See related commentary by Lyerly et al., p. 9
TLR2 Promotes Glioma Immune Evasion by Downregulating MHC Class II Molecules in Microglia
Authors: Qian Jiawen , Luo Feifei , Yang Jiao , Liu Jun , Liu Ronghua , Wang Luman , Wang Chen , Deng Yuting , Lu Zhou , Wang Yuedi , Lu Mingfang , Wang Ji-Yang , Chu Yiwei
Published: August 2018

Gliomas, the most common primary neoplasms in the brain, are notorious for their ability to evade the immune response. Despite microglial infiltration in gliomas, expression of MHC class II molecules in those microglia is compromised. Here, we report that Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) activation downregulated expression of MHC class II molecules in microglia in an orthotopic murine glioma model. TLR2-induced microglial impairment hindered the proliferation and activation of CD4+ T cells, which facilitated glioma immune evasion. TLR2-induced downregulation of MHC class II molecules was caused by suppression of the master regulator of MHC class II molecule transcription, Ciita. TLR2 activation triggered downstream MAPK/ERK1/2 signaling and loss of histone H3 acetylation at Ciita promoters, which in turn inhibited Ciita expression. In glioblastoma tissues, various endogenous TLR2 ligands, including the heat shock proteins that are endogenous TLR2 ligands, were upregulated, a response that correlated with CIITA inhibition. Thus, TLR2 promotes glioma immune-system evasion. These results advance our understanding of microglia as antigen-presenting cells in the context of glioma. In the glioma tumor microenvironment, TLR2 activation of microglia induces downregulation of microglial MHC class II expression. Impaired MHC class II expression limits T-cell–dependent antitumor immunity. Cancer Immunol Res; 6(10); 1220–33. ©2018 AACR.
Nanoparticle Conjugation of Human Papillomavirus 16 E7-long Peptides Enhances Therapeutic Vaccine Efficacy against Solid Tumors in Mice
Authors: Galliverti Gabriele , Tichet Mélanie , Domingos-Pereira Sonia , Hauert Sylvie , Nardelli-Haefliger Denise , Swartz Melody A. , Hanahan Douglas , Wullschleger Stephan
Published: August 2018

Treatment of patients bearing human papillomavirus (HPV)-related cancers with synthetic long-peptide (SLP) therapeutic vaccines has shown promising results in clinical trials against premalignant lesions, whereas responses against later stage carcinomas have remained elusive. We show that conjugation of a well-documented HPV-E7 SLP to ultra-small polymeric nanoparticles (NP) enhances the antitumor efficacy of therapeutic vaccination in different mouse models of HPV+ cancers. Immunization of TC-1 tumor-bearing mice with a single dose of NP-conjugated E7LP (NP-E7LP) generated a larger pool of E7-specific CD8+ T cells with increased effector functions than unconjugated free E7LP. At the tumor site, NP-E7LP prompted a robust infiltration of CD8+ T cells that was not accompanied by concomitant accumulation of regulatory T cells (Tregs), resulting in a higher CD8+ T-cell to Treg ratio. Consequently, the amplified immune response elicited by the NP-E7LP formulation led to increased regression of large, well-established tumors, resulting in a significant percentage of complete responses that were not achievable by immunizing with the non-NP–conjugated long-peptide. The partial responses were characterized by distinct phases of regression, stable disease, and relapse to progressive growth, establishing a platform to investigate adaptive resistance mechanisms. The efficacy of NP-E7LP could be further improved by therapeutic activation of the costimulatory receptor 4-1BB. This NP-E7LP formulation illustrates a “solid-phase” antigen delivery strategy that is more effective than a conventional free-peptide (“liquid”) vaccine, further highlighting the potential of using such formulations for therapeutic vaccination against solid tumors. Cancer Immunol Res; 6(11); 1301–13. ©2018 AACR.
Difficulty Achieving a Preoperative Diagnosis of IgG4-Related Sclerosing Cholangitis
Authors: Suzumura Kazuhiro , Hatano Etsuro , Tada Masaharu , Sueoka Hideaki , Nishida Hiroshi , Iida Kenjiro , Hai Seikan , Miyamoto Hayato , Andoh Tatsuya , Ueki Takahiro , Nonaka Kentaro , Nakasho Keiji , Fujimoto Jiro
Published: August 2018

A 75-year-old male was admitted to our hospital because of bile duct stenosis. He had no medical history of autoimmune disease. The level of tumor markers, serum IgG, and IgG4 were within normal ranges. Computed tomography showed perihilar and distal bile duct stenosis and wall thickening without swelling or abnormal enhancement of the pancreas. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography showed perihilar and distal bile duct stenosis. A biopsy and cytology from the distal bile duct stenosis suggested adenocarcinoma, and cytology from the perihilar bile duct also suggested adenocarcinoma. A preoperative diagnosis of perihilar and distal bile duct cancer was made, and the patient underwent left hepatectomy and pancreaticoduodenectomy. Resected specimens showed wall thickening in the perihilar and distal bile duct; however, tumors were unclear. A histopathological examination revealed lymphoplasmacytic infiltration, storiform fibrosis, and obliterative phlebitis in the perihilar and distal bile ducts. Immunohistochemistry revealed diffuse infiltration of IgG4-positive plasma cells in the perihilar and distal bile ducts. Lymphoplasmacytic infiltration, inflammatory change, storiform fibrosis, and obliterative phlebitis were shown in the pancreas. A final diagnosis of IgG4-related sclerosing cholangitis (IgG4-SC) with autoimmune pancreatitis was made. We herein report a case in which a preoperative diagnosis of IgG4-SC was difficult due to normal serum IgG4 levels and no obvious pancreatic lesion.
Ginseng-Related Drug-Induced Liver Injury
Authors: Lin Kyawzaw , Lin Aung Naing , Linn Sandar , Hlaing Pwint Phyu , Vasudevan Viswanath , Reddy Madhavi
Published: August 2018

Ginseng is commonly used as a medicinal herb for memory and concentration and general well-being. Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is one of the most challenging disorders and trending events in the United States which are related to body building and weight loss supplements. Currently, herbal and dietary supplementation is the second most common cause of DILI. Here, we report on a 45-year-old healthy Chinese woman who presented with dull intermittent left upper quadrant abdomen pain for a month. Upon thorough history taking, she had been taking ginseng tea and supplementation for her menopausal symptoms for almost 3 months. Physical examination was unremarkable except mild tenderness in left upper quadrant of the abdomen. Liver function test showed aspartate transaminase (AST) 717 U/L, alanine transaminase (ALT) 343 U/L, total bilirubin 5 mg/dL, direct bilirubin 3.3 mg/dL, alkaline phosphatase 182 U/L, with international normalized ratio (INR) 1.2. Prior liver enzymes (6 months earlier) showed AST 21 U/L, ALT 18 U/L, total bilirubin 0.8 mg/dL, direct bilirubin 0.3 mg/dL, alkaline phosphatase 34 U/L, with INR 0.7. Viral serology for acute hepatitis B, C, E, cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, and varicella zoster virus was negative. She was immune to hepatitis A. Her antinuclear antibody was positive. Her anti-Smith antibody, anti-smooth muscle antibody, HFE gene mutation, ceruloplasmin, alpha-1 antitrypsin serologies were within normal references. An abdomen sonogram showed fatty infiltration. Liver biopsy showed moderate to severe portal inflammation and marked lobular disarray. Portal and lobular inflammatory infiltrates consisted of a mixture of histiocytes, lymphocytes, plasma cells, eosinophils, and neutrophils with centrilobular necrosis and focal bridging necrosis, and necro-inflammation. After 6 weeks of follow-up, the patient improved physically, and the abdomen pain resolved. Ginseng has been widely used in the Chinese community as medicinal herb for a variety of conditions for decades. However, proper research has never been done regarding its pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and safety issues. In our case report, the idiosyncratic DILI resulted from ingestion of ginseng as herbal supplementation for premenopausal symptoms. Physicians should be aware of and suspect DILI in any patient with acute liver injury, and patients should be reminded that all medications and supplements have a potential to cause DILI.
Colonic Malakoplakia: A Rare Finding in a Healthy Male
Authors: Yared Rawad A. , Badran Hussein A. , Kamareddine Mohammed Hussein , Ghosn Youssef , Bou Khalil Roula , El Ajamy Khaled , Chouairy Camil , Farhat Said G.
Published: August 2018

Malakoplakia is a rare chronic granulomatous disease that may affect many organs, including the lung, brain, adrenal glands, pancreas, bone, and the genitourinary tract. The gastrointestinal tract is the most common site of involvement outside of the urinary tract. Herein, we present a case of a 65-year-old male who presented with abdominal pain and unintentional weight loss. Physical examination findings were unremarkable, but colonoscopy revealed an isolated large, flat, soft, and pale lesion in the transverse colon. Histopathological examination of the lesion showed expansion of the lamina propria due to numerous lymphocytes, plasma cells, neutrophils, and polygonal cells. Von Kossa stain showed small intracytoplasmic basophilic granular inclusions, and these histiocyte cells showed numerous Michaelis-Gutmann bodies, findings considered as diagnostic features of colonic malakoplakia. This is a rare case of isolated malakoplakia of the transverse colon diagnosed on endoscopic specimens. The majority of reported cases have shown an association between systemic diseases and colorectal adenocarcinoma. In addition, most reported cases of colonic involvement have been in the rectum, sigmoid, and right colon.
Virulence of two entomopathogenic nematode species, Steinernema sp. (strain PQ16) and Heterorhabditis indica (strain KT3987), to nymphs of the coffee cicada Dundubia nagarasingna
Authors: Nguyen Chau N. , Do Anh T. , Trinh Phap Q. , Hoang Phuc K.
Published: August 2018

The virulence and efficacy of two species of entomopathogenic nematodes, Steinernema sp. (strain PQ16) and Heterorhabditis indica (strain KT3987), against nymphs of the coffee cicada, Dundubia nagarasingna, was evaluated under laboratory and glasshouse conditions. The highest mortality rates of coffee cicada nymphs caused by these two nematode strains were 93.5 and 100%, respectively, at an inoculation dose of 600 infective juveniles (IJ) nymph−1. The virulence (LC50) was established as 137.5 IJ and 149.1 IJ for strains S-PQ16 and H-KT3987, respectively. The highest IJ yields of these nematode strains were 66 × 103 IJ (for S-PQ16) and 134.4 × 103 IJ (for H-KT3987) at a dose of 500 IJ nymph−1. The efficacies of the two nematode strains to coffee cicadas at treated dose of 60 × 103 IJ pot−1 were 84.4 and 88.9% after 30 days, higher than the efficacies at treated dose of 40 × 103 IJ pot−1. The number of IJ in 250 ml of soil at 10, 20 and 30 days after treatment, increased from 0.38 × 103 to 4.80 × 103 IJ in soil treated with a dose of 40 × 103 IJ and from 0.66 × 103 to 5.02 × 103 IJ in soil treated with a dose of 60 × 103 IJ (for S-PQ16). Similarly, for H-KT3987 the number of IJ increased from 0.43 × 103 to 8.99 × 103 IJ and from 0.62 × 103 to 9.64 × 103 IJ, at the respective doses. Based on results of a pot trial from glasshouse modelling, an IJ application dosage for biological control of coffee cicada nymphs in coffee plantations was proposed.
New species of the non-biting midges of Tribe Chironomini (Dptera, Chironomidae) from the Bolshekhekhtsyrsky Reserve (Russia, Khabarovsk Territory)
Authors: OREL OKSANA V.
Published: August 2018

Three new species of non-biting midges of the tribe Chironomini, Polypedilum (s. str.) odyrensis sp.n., Polypedilum (s. str.) servatum sp.n., Robackia lukini sp.n., are described on the morphology of imago males collected on the streams of the Bolshekhekhtsyrsky Nature.
On the Slope of Low-pressure Axes as a Criterion for Deepening in the Tropics
Authors: Simpson R. H.
Published: August 2018

The relation between the slope of tropical low pressure axes and the tendency for such lows to deepen or fill has been studied during investigations carried on separately in the Atlantic and in the Pacific ocean areas. The preliminary conclusions drawn from each of the two studies differ considerably and are reviewed herein. Limitations upon the use of vertical wind shear computations in determining the slope of such pressure axes are discussed. Questions are raised regarding the assumption in such computations that the vertical shear of the observed wind is a good approximation of the shear of the geostrophic components. Illustrations are given of the fallacies of reasoning that may result from such an assumption in connection with tropical cyclones.
Wind Chill*
Authors: Court Arnold
Published: August 2018

The rate of heat removal from the human body by wind and low temperature was termed Wind Chill by Siple and expressed by an empirical formula. This paper discusses the formula critically, pointing out that this measure of the convective heat loss may be less than three-quarters of the total heat lost by the body. Siple's formula is compared with those of others, and the use of the formula is discussed.
Cirrus “Stripes” and Typhoons
Authors: Deppermann Charles E.
Published: August 2018

The article analyzes critically all cases of striped cirrus seen at Manila during the author's second Cloud Year, March 16th, 1946 to March 15th, 1947. The data favor the following conclusions: (a) Striped cirrus usually arise from the so-called false cirrus tops of cumulonimbus, strung out into lines by a strong upper air stream, (b) Striped cirrus at Manila are usually of forecasting value only if the typhoon or depression is to Manila's E-SE and the storm is moving W–WNW. (c) Great prudence should attend their use, since they may arise from any types of frontal or orographic disturbances apart from any typhoon whatsoever.
Forecasting Hawaiian Swell from January 2 to 5, 1947 1
Authors: Arthur Robert S.
Published: August 2018

The adequacy of existing forecasting techniques is demonstrated for a situation involving extreme wave conditions on the northern shores of the Hawaiian Islands. Computations of wave characteristics as made from Sverdrup and Munk's revised relationships show that this unusually high swell could be forecast more than 24 hours in advance. Travel time is computed on the basis of the group velocity at the end of the decay distance. The situation affords a particularly good check on computed travel time since the time of maximum wave height is observed at both the Hawaiian and Palmyra Islands.
Studies in the Meteorology of Upper Respiratory Infections (V): A Meteorotropic Weather-Type *
Authors: Sargent Frederick
Published: August 2018

A meteorotropism is described which concerns a correlation between a sequence of weather changes (meteorotropic weather-type) occurring 22 times during the academic years 1935–36 through 1938–39 and the daily incidence of upper respiratory infections among students of the Phillips Exeter Academy (N. H.) for the same period of years. The sequence of weather changes was a major wave in the barometric pressure followed 5.3 days later by a minor wave. The changes in the incidence of upper respiratory infections were a small increase of incidence in association with the major pressure wave followed 5.5 days later by a large increase of incidence in association with the minor pressure wave. The incidence of upper respiratory infections, during these 22 episodes, among 93 young men who were especially susceptible to such infections, varied in the same manner as did the incidence in the total population. Various statistical tests demonstrated that this meteorotropism was real and significant. Although the explanation for the phenomenon could not be offered, the author suggests that it be called the “anaphylactoid meteorotropism.”
A Hydrometeorological Analysis of Venezuelan Rainfall *
Authors: Fletcher Robert D.
Published: August 2018

A meteorological analysis is made of the general rainstorm of June 9–12, 1945, which produced substantial streamflow measurements over the Rio Tuy drainage basin of Venezuela. In this storm it appears that the intertropical convergence zone (ITC), in combination with the orography of the basin, was the weather model responsible for the rain.

There is shown to be a high correlation (a coefficient of 0.73) between the mean-annual-rainfall pattern and that of the June 9–12 storm. The same correlation coefficient is found between the mean-annual pattern and that of another storm which occurred between June 28 and July 2, 1945. It is concluded that most general rainstorms over the Rio Tuy Basin occur when the ITC, oriented such that the trade winds are blowing almost directly from the east, lies just south of the basin; that the isohyetal patterns which result are very much alike; and that the magnitude of the rainfall varies with the strength of the trade-wind current flowing over the basin.
On the Variability of Upper Winds at Eniwetok, Marshall Islands
Authors: Crowson Delmar L.
Published: August 2018

Twenty-five winds aloft observations made at Eniwetok in the Marshall Islands during a thirty-three hour period are analyzed. Large changes in wind speed from hour to hour indicate that frequent winds aloft observations, more than the standard four a day, are needed for forecasting winds. Significant operational implications of the large variations of winds aloft for aircraft flights are discussed.
Objective Calculations of Divergence, Vertical Velocity and Vorticity
Authors: Bellamy John C.
Published: August 2018

Methods of calculating horizontal divergence, vertical velocity and vorticity directly from wind observations without analyzing the wind field are presented. The appropriate formulae for these quantities in terms of the finite areas or volumes determined by the observation points are derived. Convenient nomographs and tabular forms for their calculation are described and illustrated.
Analysis of Replies to a Questionnaire on Forecast Aids
Authors: Elliott Robert D. , Olson Clifford A. , Strauss Milton A.
Published: August 2018

Results of 1,460 replies to a questionnaire on the usefulness of various forecast aids are summarized. Figures are presented showing the forecast aids, charts and diagrams in the order of their indicated usefulness to forecasters. The analysis of the replies shows that differences between services are minor and mainly attributable to differences in requirements and data availability. Differences in experience and training are minor but indicate some small variations. For several forecast aids discrepancies are noted between a particular aid's usefulness and its use.
Remote Indicating and Recording Wind Equipment (I) *
Authors: Ives Ronald L.
Published: August 2018

Equipment and methods for determining wind speed and direction at a remote point, either intermittently and manually recorded, or automatically, at regular intervals, and automatically recorded, and the equipment and techniques for long-period operation of such systems, are here described.
An Unusual Radiosonde Flight at Lander, Wyoming, Indicating Large Vertical Motions
Authors: Colson DeVer
Published: August 2018

Radiosonde flights taken at 0300Z and 0425Z February 11, 1949 in Lander, Wyoming, revealed some irregular rates of ascent and during two intervals the balloon actually descended. This paper offers an explanation of these large vertical air currents on the basis of a wave moving on the temperature inversion and also on the basis of some theoretical work by Queney.
Forecasting Winter-Time Stratus at Kansas City, Mo.
Authors: Handy Burton
Published: August 2018

An attempt is made to develop an objective method of forecasting winter-time stratus at Kansas City, Mo., using the theory that air of higher moisture content advancing upon Kansas City will cause stratus to form. The gradient of moisture in the air is indicated by the relationship between temperature at the station and dew point upstream from the station. Using four variables, temperature, geostrophic wind direction and geostrophic wind velocity at Kansas City, and dew point upstream from Kansas City, a set of three charts is constructed, using graphical correlation methods. The final chart gives a probability of the occurrence or non-occurrence of stratus. Test data show an accuracy of 78.4%, and a skill score of 35.0% over chance.
The Optical Measurement of Lapse Rate *
Authors: Fleagle Robert G.
Published: August 2018

The need for reliable determination of the temperature of the air very near the ground and the difficulties inherent in measurement of this quantity by the ordinary indirect methods are pointed out. It is suggested that the dependence of the speed of light on air density provides a convenient method for the determination of the temperature near the ground by direct measurement of the lapse rate, and evidence is given from other papers to show that this is feasible where the vertical gradient of humidity is not great. The relationship between apparent elevation and lapse rates of temperature and vapor pressure is derived, and the relationship is illustrated by the results of computations.
General Circulation Over the Anglo-Egyptian Sudan and Adjacent Regions
Authors: Solot Samuel B.
Published: August 2018

The annual weather cycle in the Sudan is divided into four seasons according to precipitation regimes. The characteristic flow patterns in the lower troposphere for each season are demonstrated and discussed. The annual migration of the intertropical convergence zone is found to be the most important controlling climatic factor. Some striking differences between continental and maritime tropical meteorology are revealed by the very abrupt wind shear at the intertropical convergence zone over Central Africa and by the marked differences in air mass characteristics on opposite sides of the zone.
Heavy Snowstorms at Blue Hill (Boston), Mass. (Concluded from May Bulletin, p. 167)
Authors: Schell Irving I.
Published: August 2018

The local precipitation indexes, w/L (namely, the ratio of the specific humidity to the lift required to initiate condensation), at Washington, D. C., and Buffalo, N. Y., from which directions the storms reaching Blue Hill usually arrive, are moderate to large shortly before and during (all but near the end of) a heavy snowstorm at Blue Hill, and give some indication of the amount of precipitation to be expected.
Further Studies of the Movement and Formation of Hurricanes and Their Forecasting
Authors: Riehl Herbert , Burgner Newton M.
Published: August 2018

At first the relation between the motion of tropical storms and the speed of the steering current is investigated quantitatively. This necessitates definition of the steering current along all space axes and time. The result is that the zonal component of motion of storms on the average equals the zonal component of the steering current. There is some scatter about the linear regression line.

The following parts deal with formation of tropical storms. Earlier work on the relation between motion of the long wave train in the westerlies and development of hurricanes is extended and it is shown that progression of the long waves very frequently precedes deepening. A synoptic example shows the three-dimensional structure of the atmosphere and its changes with time.
A “Geostrophic Map”
Authors: Williams Archie F.
Published: August 2018

If a base map is constructed so that its scale is proportional to the sine of the latitude the geostrophic wind speed would be everywhere constant for a given contour spacing. Such a map construction is presented and an analysis is made of the errors introduced due to its being slightly non-conformal at certain latitudes.
Temperature Lapse Rates over Bare Ground and over Potato Plots on Peat and Mineral Soils *
Authors: Waggoner Paul E.
Published: August 2018

Vertical temperature gradients between instrument shelter and plant heights were investigated. A sample of 160 lapse rate observations was taken during the growing season. Concomitant observations of date, time of day, plant cover, soil type, sky cover, wind speed, and thermodynamic air mass classification were also made. Means and sources of variation for the lapse rates were examined.
Some Preliminary Studies of the Rapid Variations in the Index of Refraction of Atmospheric Air at Microwave Frequencies *
Authors: Crain C. M. , Gerhardt J. R.
Published: August 2018

The index of refraction of atmospheric air at microwave frequencies is being measured with equipment which compares the resonant frequency of a cavity through which air is being drawn with that of a closed reference cavity. The equipment is shown to give a measure of the rapid variations of air moisture since the changes in refractive index at these frequencies are primarily a function of air moisture. Preliminary comparisons of the simultaneously recorded fluctuations of microwave index of refraction and air temperature, both measured with equipment whose time constants are considerably smaller than those of the recording Esterline-Angus meters, demonstrate a marked correspondence between air temperature and moisture variations. The correspondence is shown qualitatively to be a function of height, insolation, and soil moisture. No immediate correspondence is noted between non-oriented wind speed fluctuations and either air temperature or refractive index.
A Meteorograph for Low Altitude Sounding *
Authors: Parrott William H. , Paquette Robert G. , Church Phil E.
Published: August 2018

A simple mechanical direct-recording meteorograph has been constructed for captive-balloon temperature soundings in the lower 600 meters of the atmosphere. Details of construction and operation are presented. Altitudes are recorded accurately to 1.5% and temperatures to 0.2C°.
A Formation of Pileus-like Veil Clouds Over Cape Cod, Massachusetts 1, 2
Authors: Malkus Joanne Starr , Bunker Andrew F. , McCasland Kenneth
Published: August 2018

A case of low-altitude veil clouds from which cumulus later grew is studied by means of airplane, photographic, and synoptic data. Convergence due to the land-sea temperature contrast is indicated as the critical factor in this unusual cloud formation. This conclusion is further supported by an airplane study of the cumulus structure.
A Long-Term Fluctuation in Early Fall Precipitation in California
Authors: Jorgensen Donald L.
Published: August 2018

Moving means of September rainfall amounts are given for six stations in California for the period of available record. Stations in the central portion showed a marked long-term fluctuation, but in the extreme south the fluctuation was not evident. The fluctuation was characterized by periods of light rainfall from 1860 to 1890 and from 1920 to the present with considerably heavier amounts recorded in the intervening period from 1890 to 1920. Whether or not the light amounts being experienced at present will be followed by a period of heavier amounts cannot be determined.

The first rains of the season in central California usually result from the development of upper cold lows or the deepening of unstable waves just off the coast. Since these storms result from characteristic surface and upper air flow patterns, a fluctuation in the amount of rain received from these storms probably results from changes in the broadscale features of the circulation.
A Thermocouple Voltage Amplifier for Temperature Recording
Authors: Denton Robert L.
Published: August 2018

A sensitive amplifier is described which can be used, in conjunction with a milliammeter, to measure the low voltages encountered in thermocouple temperature measurements. It is much faster in response and more accurate than conventional bourdon tube type thermographs.

The virtual absence of either the zero or sensitivity drift, so common in some types of d.c. amplifiers, and the use of battery power make it particularly useful for recording or indicating in remote locations where it must operate unattended.
Thermocouple Psychrometer for Field Measurements
Authors: Bellaire F. R. , Anderson L. J.
Published: August 2018

A new thermocouple psychrometer, designed to indicate true air temperature and humidity in remote locations, is described. In order to minimize maintenance, it utilizes natural ventilation, but provides adequate shielding of sensing elements against radiation. Wet and dry bulb temperature errors of less than + 0.1C° are obtained in winds above 1 mph.