bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Example‐based Authoring of Procedural Modeling Programs with Structural and Continuous Variability
Authors: Ritchie Daniel , Jobalia Sarah , Thomas Anna
Published: June 2018

Procedural models are a powerful tool for quickly creating a variety of computer graphics content. However, authoring them is challenging, requiring both programming and artistic expertise. In this paper, we present a method for learning procedural models from a small number of example objects. We focus on the modular design setting, where objects are constructed from a common library of parts. Our procedural representation is a probabilistic program that models both the discrete, hierarchical structure of the examples as well as the continuous variability in their spatial arrangements of parts. We develop an algorithm for learning such programs from examples, using combinatorial search over program structures and variational inference to estimate continuous program parameters. We evaluate our method by demonstrating its ability to learn programs from examples of ornamental designs, spaceships, space stations, and castles. Experiments suggest that our learned programs can reliably generate a variety of new objects that are perceptually indistinguishable from hand‐crafted examples.
Parallel Reinsertion for Bounding Volume Hierarchy Optimization
Authors: Meister D. , Bittner J.
Published: June 2018

We present a novel highly parallel method for optimizing bounding volume hierarchies (BVH) targeting contemporary GPU architectures. The core of our method is based on the insertion‐based BVH optimization that is known to achieve excellent results in terms of the SAH cost. The original algorithm is, however, inherently sequential: no efficient parallel version of the method exists, which limits its practical utility. We reformulate the algorithm while exploiting the observation that there is no need to remove the nodes from the BVH prior to finding their optimized positions in the tree. We can search for the optimized positions for all nodes in parallel while simultaneously tracking the corresponding SAH cost reduction. We update in parallel all nodes for which better position was found while efficiently handling potential conflicts during these updates. We implemented our algorithm in CUDA and evaluated the resulting BVH in the context of the GPU ray tracing. The results indicate that the method is able to achieve the best ray traversal performance among the state of the art GPU‐based BVH construction methods.
MIQP‐based Layout Design for Building Interiors
Authors: Wu Wenming , Fan Lubin , Liu Ligang , Wonka Peter
Published: June 2018

We propose a hierarchical framework for the generation of building interiors. Our solution is based on a mixed integer quadratic programming (MIQP) formulation. We parametrize a layout by polygons that are further decomposed into small rectangles. We identify important high‐level constraints, such as room size, room position, room adjacency, and the outline of the building, and formulate them in a way that is compatible with MIQP and the problem parametrization. We also propose a hierarchical framework to improve the scalability of the approach. We demonstrate that our algorithm can be used for residential building layouts and can be scaled up to large layouts such as office buildings, shopping malls, and supermarkets. We show that our method is faster by multiple orders of magnitude than previous methods.
Monte Carlo Methods for Volumetric Light Transport Simulation
Authors: Novák Jan , Georgiev Iliyan , Hanika Johannes , Jarosz Wojciech
Published: June 2018

The wide adoption of path‐tracing algorithms in high‐end realistic rendering has stimulated many diverse research initiatives. In this paper we present a coherent survey of methods that utilize Monte Carlo integration for estimating light transport in scenes containing participating media. Our work complements the volume‐rendering state‐of‐the‐art report by Cerezo et al. [CPP*05]; we review publications accumulated since its publication over a decade ago, and include earlier methods that are key for building light transport paths in a stochastic manner. We begin by describing analog and non‐analog procedures for free‐path sampling and discuss various expected‐value, collision, and track‐length estimators for computing transmittance. We then review the various rendering algorithms that employ these as building blocks for path sampling. Special attention is devoted to null‐collision methods that utilize fictitious matter to handle spatially varying densities; we import two “next‐flight” estimators originally developed in nuclear sciences. Whenever possible, we draw connections between image‐synthesis techniques and methods from particle physics and neutron transport to provide the reader with a broader context.
A longitudinal, observational study examining the relationships of patient satisfaction with services and mental well‐being to their clinical course in young people with Type 1 diabetes mellitus during transition from child to adult health services
Authors: Gray S. , Cheetham T. , McConachie H. , Mann K. D. , Parr J. R. , Pearce M. S. , Colver A. ,   the Transition Collaborative Group
Published: June 2018

Aim

We hypothesized that participant well‐being and satisfaction with services would be positively associated with a satisfactory clinical course during transition from child to adult health care.

Methods

Some 150 young people with Type 1 diabetes mellitus from five diabetes units in England were recruited to a longitudinal study of transition. Each young person was visited at home four times by a research assistant; each visit was 1 year apart. Satisfaction with services (Mind the Gap; MTG) and mental well‐being (Warwick–Edinburgh Mental Well‐being Scale; WEMWBS) were captured. Change in HbA1c, episodes of ketoacidosis, clinic and retinal screening attendance were used to assess clinical course. In total, 108 of 150 (72%) young people had sufficient data for analysis at visit 4.

Results

Mean age at entry was 16 years. By visit 4, 81.5% had left paediatric healthcare services. Median HbA1c increased significantly (P = 0.01) from 69 mmol/mol (8.5%) at baseline to 75 mmol/mol (9.0%) at visit 4. WEMWBS scores were comparable with those in the general population at baseline and were stable over the study period. MTG scores were also stable. By visit 4, some 32 individuals had a ‘satisfactory’ and 76 a ‘suboptimal’ clinical course. There were no significant differences in average WEMWBS and MTG scores between the clinical course groups (P = 0.96, 0.52 respectively); nor was there a significant difference in transfer status between the clinical course groups.

Conclusions

The well‐being of young people with diabetes and their satisfaction with transition services are not closely related to their clinical course. Investigating whether innovative psycho‐educational interventions can improve the clinical course is a research priority.
Matrix metalloproteinase‐9, 10, and stress hyperglycaemia in acute kidney injury
Authors: Guvercin Guray , Karakus Volkan , Aksit Murat , Dere Yelda , Aktar Merve , Alpay Hasan , Bozkaya Giray , Tatar Erhan
Published: June 2018

Background

This study investigated the effect of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐9 and 10, and stress hyperglycaemia on the necessity of emergency renal replacement therapy (RRT) and mortality in nondiabetic geriatric patients with acute kidney injury (AKI).

Materials and Methods

The present observational and longitudinal study included 101 nondiabetic geriatric patients (age >65 years) with AKI. The serum levels of MMP‐9 and MMP‐10 were evaluated in these patients. Serum glucose level >140 mg/dL at the time of admission was accepted as stress hyperglycaemia.

Results

The average age of patients was 81 ± 7.1 years. Stress hyperglycaemia was diagnosed in 34.6% of the cases; the majority of these cases were patients with high‐serum urea, CRP, and chronic kidney disease. The average levels of MMP‐9 and MMP‐10 were found to be 199 ± 38 and 16.5 ± 7.5 ng/mL, respectively. Thirty‐one cases (30.6%) mortality during hospitalization and 20 cases (20%) underwent emergency RRT. Multiregression analysis showed the serum urea (P < .001) and stress hyperglycaemia (P = .03) to be independently associated with mortality. Also, serum urea (P = .01), potassium level (P = .03), and MMP‐10 levels (P = .03) were independently associated with the necessity of the emergency RRT. The MMP‐9 levels exhibited no relation with the necessity of emergency RRT and mortality.

Conclusion

Stress hyperglycaemia is a common condition among nondiabetic geriatric patients with AKI and is related to mortality. Serum MMP‐10 levels serve as an important predictor of the necessity of emergency RRT in these patients.
Effects of Lectin (ScLL) on osteoclast‐like multinucleated giant cells’ maturation—A preliminary in vitro study
Authors: Reis Manuella V. P. , de Souza Gabriela L. , Moura Camilla C. G. , da Silva Marcus V. , Souza Maria A. , Soares Priscilla B. F. , Soares Carlos J.
Published: June 2018

Background/Aim

Lectin (ScLL) has been recently evaluated in the oral cavity due to its anti‐inflammatory activities. ScLL could be a promising agent for blocking osteoclast activity and preventing root resorption. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of ScLL on the viability of the RAW 264.7 macrophage lineage, osteoclast‐like maturation and the release of TNF‐α and nitric oxide (NO).

Materials and Methods

The viability of RAW 264.7 cells was determined by MTT and Alamar Blue assays after ScLL treatment for 24 hours. ScLL effects on RANKL‐induced osteoclast‐like maturation were assessed by tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining and F‐actin ring formation. The supernatant was collected to detect the release of TNF‐α using ELISA and NO using a nitrite assay.

Results

ScLL suppressed osteoclast‐like maturation by decreasing TRAP activity as well as F‐actin ring formation. ScLL at 10 μg/mL showed the highest values of NO release compared with all other groups (P < .05). Lower levels of TNF‐α were found for the negative control.

Conclusions

ScLL at 5 μg/mL suppressed osteoclast‐like maturation in vitro and had no cytotoxic effect on RAW cell cultures.
Field evidences for the positive effects of aerosols on tree growth
Authors: Wang Xin , Wu Jin , Chen Min , Xu Xiangtao , Wang Zhenhua , Wang Bin , Wang Chengzhang , Piao Shilong , Lin Weili , Miao Guofang , Deng Meifeng , Qiao Chunlian , Wang Jing , Xu Shan , Liu Lingli
Published: June 2018

Theoretical and eddy covariance studies demonstrate that aerosol‐loading stimulates canopy photosynthesis, but field evidence for the aerosol effect on tree growth is limited. Here, we measured in situ daily stem growth rates of aspen trees under a wide range of aerosol‐loading in China. The results showed that daily stem growth rates were positively correlated with aerosol‐loading, even at exceptionally high aerosol levels. Using structural equation modeling analysis, we showed that variations in stem growth rates can be largely attributed to two environmental variables covarying with aerosol loading: diffuse fraction of radiation and vapor pressure deficit (VPD). Furthermore, we found that these two factors influence stem growth by influencing photosynthesis from different parts of canopy. Using field observations and a mechanistic photosynthesis model, we demonstrate that photosynthetic rates of both sun and shade leaves increased under high aerosol‐loading conditions but for different reasons. For sun leaves, the photosynthetic increase was primarily attributed to the concurrent lower VPD; for shade leaves, the positive aerosol effect was tightly connected with increased diffuse light. Overall, our study provides the first field evidence of increased tree growth under high aerosol loading. We highlight the importance of understanding biophysical mechanisms of aerosol‐meteorology interactions, and incorporating the different pathways of aerosol effects into earth system models to improve the prediction of large‐scale aerosol impacts, and the associated vegetation‐mediated climate feedbacks.
Detection of the unknown components of the oral microflora of teeth with periapical radiolucencies in a Turkish population using next‐generation sequencing techniques
Authors: İriboz E. , Arıcan Öztürk B. , Kolukırık M. , Karacan İ. , Sazak Öveçoğlu H.
Published: June 2018

Aim

To detect the unknown components of the oral microbiome and the effects of root canal treatment in a Turkish population and to evaluate the changes in microbial diversity in the root canals before and after treatment.

Methodology

Single‐rooted central and lateral maxillary incisors with one canal were chosen from 20 patients. Baseline samples of intact intracanal microbiota were collected from 20 root canals of permanent teeth with necrotic pulps using sterile paper points. After root canal preparation, the root canals were filled with a calcium hydroxide paste for 7 days. Calcium hydroxide was removed from root canal with 2.5% sodium hypochlorite and 17% EDTA using passive ultrasonic irrigation (PUI). A second bacteriologic samples were taken with sterile paper points prior to root filling. The samples were processes with DNase‐I treatment using next‐generation sequencing (NGS). Reduction in bacterial numbers during root canal treatment was evaluated using real‐time quantitative PCR (qPCR). All statistical analyses were conducted using the MINITAB 17 software (Minitab Ltd. Co., Coventry, UK). A one‐sample t‐test was used to analyse the data. Statistical significance was accepted at P < 0.05.

Results

Relative abundances of Mycoplasma sp., Paludibacter sp., Tannerella sp., Prevotella spp. and an uncultured species from the order Bacteroidales decreased with root canal preparation and medication (98.7%, 99.8%, 98.8%, 97.7% and 99.3%, respectively), whilst the relative abundances of Methylobacterium sp., Corynebacterium sp. and Streptococcus infantis increased (93.1%, 94.8% and 99.4%, respectively). Considerable numbers of Streptophyta species were detected before and after treatment. The ratio of Agrobacterium sp. in the treated teeth community and the ratio of order Streptophyta in the infected canals had negative correlations with the success of bacterial elimination.

Conclusions

The combination of NGS and qPCR techniques resulted in detection of previously unknown components of the oral microbiome and the effects of root canal treatment on their relative abundance in a Turkish population.
Modeling Basic Writing Processes From Keystroke Logs
Authors: Guo Hongwen , Deane Paul D. , van Rijn Peter W. , Zhang Mo , Bennett Randy E.
Published: June 2018

The goal of this study is to model pauses extracted from writing keystroke logs as a way of characterizing the processes students use in essay composition. Low‐level timing data were modeled, the interkey interval and its subtype, the intraword duration, thought to reflect processes associated with keyboarding skills and composition fluency. Heavy‐tailed probability distributions (lognormal and stable distributions) were fit to individual students' data. Both density functions fit reasonably well, and estimated parameters were found to be robust across prompts designed to assess student proficiency for the same writing purpose. In addition, estimated parameters for both density functions were statistically significantly associated with human essay scores after accounting for total time spent writing the essay, a result consistent with cognitive theory on the role of low‐level processes in writing.
A Comparison of Experimental and Observational Approaches to Assessing the Effects of Time Constraints in a Medical Licensing Examination
Authors: Harik Polina , Clauser Brian E. , Grabovsky Irina , Baldwin Peter , Margolis Melissa J. , Bucak Deniz , Jodoin Michael , Walsh William , Haist Steven
Published: June 2018

Test administrators are appropriately concerned about the potential for time constraints to impact the validity of score interpretations; psychometric efforts to evaluate the impact of speededness date back more than half a century. The widespread move to computerized test delivery has led to the development of new approaches to evaluating how examinees use testing time and to new metrics designed to provide evidence about the extent to which time limits impact performance. Much of the existing research is based on these types of observational metrics; relatively few studies use randomized experiments to evaluate the impact time limits on scores. Of those studies that do report on randomized experiments, none directly compare the experimental results to evidence from observational metrics to evaluate the extent to which these metrics are able to sensitively identify conditions in which time constraints actually impact scores. The present study provides such evidence based on data from a medical licensing examination. The results indicate that these observational metrics are useful but provide an imprecise evaluation of the impact of time constraints on test performance.
Lord's Wald Test for Detecting DIF in Multidimensional IRT Models: A Comparison of Two Estimation Approaches
Authors: Lee Soo , Suh Youngsuk
Published: June 2018

Lord's Wald test for differential item functioning (DIF) has not been studied extensively in the context of the multidimensional item response theory (MIRT) framework. In this article, Lord's Wald test was implemented using two estimation approaches, marginal maximum likelihood estimation and Bayesian Markov chain Monte Carlo estimation, to detect uniform and nonuniform DIF under MIRT models. The Type I error and power rates for Lord's Wald test were investigated under various simulation conditions, including different DIF types and magnitudes, different means and correlations of two ability parameters, and different sample sizes. Furthermore, English usage data were analyzed to illustrate the use of Lord's Wald test with the two estimation approaches.
Multiple traumatisation and subsequent psychopathology in people with intellectual disabilities and DSM‐5 PTSD: a preliminary study
Authors: Mason‐Roberts S. , Bradley A. , Karatzias T. , Brown M. , Paterson D. , Walley R. , Truesdale M. , Taggart L. , Sirisena C.
Published: June 2018

Background

Individuals with intellectual disability (ID) are at greater risk of exposure to traumatic life events compared with the non‐ID population. Yet no study to date has examined the role of multiple traumatisation and subsequent psychopathology in people with ID. The aim of this study was to explore the association between multiple traumatisation and subsequent mental health.

Methods

A preliminary cross‐sectional study involving 33 participants with DSM‐5 post‐traumatic stress disorder completed self‐report questionnaires on exposure to traumatic life events and post‐traumatic stress disorder symptoms, anxiety, depression and general distress.

Results

A proportion of 42.4% of the sample reported multiple traumatisation, including exposure to life events in both childhood and adulthood. Those who reported exposure to life events in childhood and adulthood reported significantly higher risk of harm, depression and general psychological distress compared with those who reported exposure to life events only in adulthood.

Conclusions

Preliminary results indicate that more severe psychopathology is associated with multiple traumatisation in childhood and adulthood compared with trauma experienced solely in adulthood.
The Effect of Milling Metal Versus Milling Wax on Implant Framework Retention and Adaptation
Authors: Ghodsi Safura , Pirmoazen Salma , Beyabanaki Elaheh , Rostami Mitra , Alikhasi Marzieh
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The metal framework of implant‐supported restorations can be made using different methods. For a successful outcome, the acceptability of each method depends on the retention and fit of the restoration. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the retention and adaptation of copings fabricated using two methods: casting wax patterns made by computer‐aided design/computer‐aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology, and milling sintered chromium‐cobalt (Cr‐Co) blocks.

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐four abutment analogs (height, 5.5 mm) were divided into two groups according to the framework fabrication method. In one group, wax patterns were prepared using a CAM milling machine, and they were cast with a Ni‐Cr‐Ti metal alloy. In the second group, the copings were milled from Cr‐Co blocks using a CAD/CAM milling machine. All copings were equal in contour, thickness, and internal relief and were seated on the abutment analogs after the necessary adjustments. The vertical marginal discrepancy was investigated using a silicone replica method and stereomicroscope with 75× magnification. After copings were cemented onto the abutment analogs using zinc phosphate, a tensile resistance test was performed using a universal testing machine. Mann‐Whitney U and Student's t‐test were used for statistical analyses at a significance level of 0.05.

Results

An independent sample t‐test revealed a significant difference between the two groups for retention (p = 0.010), and the milled wax group showed higher tensile resistance compared with the milled metal group. There was also a significant difference between the two groups in marginal discrepancy (p < 0.001), with a larger marginal gap in the milled metal group compared with the milled wax group. The milled metal copings required more adjustments to fit on the abutment analogs compared with the wax milled copings (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The CAD/CAM technique for wax milling resulted in more retentive copings with better marginal and internal adaptations compared with milling the metal blocks.
A link between physical and chemical climate change: the enhancement of vegetative water loss by atmospheric aerosols
Authors: Chappelka Arthur H. , Neufeld Howard S.
Published: June 2018

This article is a Commentary on Grantz et al., 219: 275–286.
Ambient temperature regulates the expression of a small set of sRNAs influencing plant development through NF‐YA2 and YUC2
Authors: Gyula Péter , Baksa Ivett , Tóth Tamás , Mohorianu Irina , Dalmay Tamás , Szittya György
Published: June 2018

Plants substantially alter their developmental programme upon changes in the ambient temperature. The 21–24 nt small RNAs (sRNAs) are important gene expression regulators, which play a major role in development and adaptation. However, little is known about how the different sRNA classes respond to changes in the ambient temperature. We profiled the sRNA populations in four different tissues of Arabidopsis thaliana plants grown at 15°C, 21°C, and 27°C. We found that only a small fraction (0.6%) of the sRNA loci are ambient temperature‐controlled. We identified thermoresponsive microRNAs and identified their target genes using degradome libraries. We verified that the target of the thermoregulated miR169, NF‐YA2, is also ambient temperature‐regulated. NF‐YA2, as the component of the conserved transcriptional regulator NF‐Y complex, binds the promoter of the flowering time regulator FT and the auxin biosynthesis gene YUC2. Other differentially expressed loci include thermoresponsive phased siRNA loci that target various auxin pathway genes and tRNA fragments. Furthermore, a temperature‐dependent 24‐nt heterochromatic siRNA locus in the promoter of YUC2 may contribute to the epigenetic regulation of auxin homeostasis. This holistic approach facilitated a better understanding of the role of different sRNA classes in ambient temperature adaptation of plants.
Adolescents’ knowledge and perception of medicine risk
Authors: Klimaszova Zuzana , Fazekas Tomas , Kuzelova Magdalena
Published: June 2018

Background

Adolescents often start to use medicines independently without having sufficient knowledge or previous experience, which can lead to the inappropriate use of medicines.

Methods

Adolescents’ knowledge of medicines, perception of their effectiveness, risk of the medicines and a possible association between these terms and health status, age and gender were studied. A questionnaire‐based survey was conducted in 13–18‐year‐old adolescents in secondary school.

Results

There were differences in adolescents’ knowledge, attitude and perception of risk of medicines related to their age, gender and, to a lesser extent, health status. Chronically ill adolescents had better knowledge about allergy medicines according to the mean score of a 5‐point Likert scale (1, strongly agree; 5, strongly disagree; 2.30 vs 2.51, P = 0.005) and they agreed to a lesser extent than healthy adolescents that rescription medicines improve their health (2.21 vs 2.05, P = 0.034). Medicine knowledge differed significantly with age (P < 0.001). Older adolescents (16–18 years old) were more knowledgeable about medicines (1.33−3.04 vs 1.64−3.71, P < 0.05) and they agreed to a lesser extent than younger adolescents (2.11−4.03 vs 1.86−3.56, P < 0.05) with statements that prescription medicines are effective and safe. Girls were more knowledgeable than boys (1.43−3.04 vs 1.64−3.14, P < 0.05) and preferred to discuss medicines with their parents.

Conclusion

The level of knowledge and the perception of medicine risk are associated with the health status, age and gender of adolescents, and health‐care professionals need to be aware of this when educating adolescents.
Exploring Bioluminescence Function of the Ca2+‐regulated Photoproteins with Site‐directed Mutagenesis
Authors: Eremeeva Elena V. , Vysotski Eugene S.
Published: June 2018

Site‐directed mutagenesis is a powerful tool to investigate the structure–function relationship of proteins and a function of certain amino acid residues in catalytic conversion of substrates during enzymatic reactions. Hence, it is not surprising that this approach was repeatedly applied to elucidate the role of certain amino acid residues in various aspects of photoprotein bioluminescence, mostly for aequorin and obelin, and to design mutant photoproteins with altered properties (modified calcium affinity, faster or slower bioluminescence kinetics, different emission color) which would either allow the development of novel bioluminescent assays or improvement of characteristics of the already existing ones. This information, however, is scattered over different articles. In this review, we systematize the findings that were made using site‐directed mutagenesis studies regarding the impact of various amino acid residues on bioluminescence of hydromedusan Ca2+‐regulated photoproteins. All key residues that have been identified are pinpointed, and their influence on different aspects of photoprotein functioning such as active photoprotein complex formation, bioluminescence reaction, calcium response and light emitter formation is discussed.
Distinguishing sporulating and nonsporulating lesions as a method for evaluating the resistance of sugarcane genotypes to orange rust
Authors: Moreira A. S. , Nogueira‐Júnior A. F. , Gonçalves C. R. N. B. , Souza N. A. , Bergamin Filho A.
Published: June 2018

Sugarcane breeding programmes rank the resistance of genotypes to Puccinia kuehnii, causal agent of orange rust, according to levels of disease severity. However, during the screening stages, this method of assessment can lead to precipitous elimination of genotypes with promising agronomic traits but showing mild symptoms of rust such as flecks or lesions that do not produce spores. This study aimed to propose a new method to classify the resistance of sugarcane genotypes to orange rust by counting sporulating lesions. Five sugarcane varieties with different levels of resistance to P. kuehnii were inoculated with two pathogen populations under controlled conditions. The disease severity (SEV), total number of lesions (TNL), and total number of sporulating lesions (TNSL) were evaluated in a 20 cm leaf fragment from the most diseased leaf. The TNL and TNSL evaluations were performed at 11, 16 and 21 days after inoculation (DAI) and SEV at 21 DAI. The thresholds of 80% and 8% of sporulating lesions (SL) separated susceptible from the intermediate varieties and intermediate from the resistant ones, respectively. It is proposed that the method of counting sporulating lesions be used in screening genotypes for resistance to P. kuehnii in sugarcane breeding programmes.
Tuberculosis patients not covered by treatment in public health services: findings from India's National Family Health Survey 2015–16
Authors: Pardeshi Geeta , Deluca Andrea , Agarwal Sutapa , Kishore Jugal
Published: June 2018

Objective

Half of the TB patients in India seek care from private providers resulting in incomplete notification, varied quality of care and out‐of‐pocket expenditure. The objective of this study was to describe the characteristics of TB patients who remain outside the coverage of treatment in public health services.

Methods

Cross‐sectional data from National Family Health Survey‐4 (2015–16) were analysed using logistic regression analysis. TB treatment was the dependent variable. Sociodemographic factors and place where households generally seek treatment were independent variables.

Results

Prevalence of self‐reported TB was 308.17/100 000 population (95% CI: 309.44–310.55/100 000 population) and 38.8% (95% CI: 36.5–41.1%) of TB patients were outside care of public health services – 3.3% did not seek treatment and 35.3% accessed treatment from private sector. Factors associated with not seeking treatment were age <10 years [OR = 3.43; 95% CI (1.52–7.77); P = 0.00]; no/preschool education [OR = 1.82; 95% CI (1.10–3.34); P = 0.02]; poorest wealth index [OR = 1.86; 95% CI (1.01–3.34); P = 0.04] and household's general rejection of the public sector when seeking health care [OR = 1.69; 95% CI (1.69–2.26); P = 0.00]. Factors associated with seeking treatment from private providers were female sex [OR = 1.29; 95% CI (1.11–1.50); P = 0.001], younger age of the patient [OR = 2.39; 95% CI (1.62–3.53); P = 0.00], higher education [OR = 1.82; 95% CI (1.11–2.98); P = 0.02] and household's general rejection of the public sector when seeking health care [OR = 4.56; 95% CI (3.95–5.27); P = 0.00]. Patients from households reporting ‘poor quality of care’ as the reason for not generally preferring public health services were more likely (OR = 1.48, 95% CI = 1.19–1.65; P = 00) to access private treatment.

Conclusion

The study provides insights for efforts to involve the private health sector for accurate surveillance and patient groups requiring targeted interventions for linking them to the national programme.
Not just ceremony, not just dance, not just idea: Milpirri as hyperrealism, a key word discussion
Authors: Patrick Steven Wanta Jampijinpa , Biddle Jennifer L.
Published: June 2018

This article is a critical and creative discussion of Milpirri, the experimental Warlpiri ceremony produced in conjunction with Tracks Dance Company since 2005. It utilizes Warlpiri key words as a formal device to disrupt the ubiquity of English literacy and highlight the demands of translation. A radical Warlpiri initiative, Milpirri belies categorical definition. A complex, hybrid, multiplatform event, Milpirri is discussed as a highly strategic form of community attention, assemblage, and performance: a deeply embedded and embodied practice‐base of activation and activism for at‐risk Warlpiri knowledge, language, and heritage.
Thoughts on Model Validation for Engineering Design
Authors: Hazelrigg George A.
Published: June 2018

Models are the basis for all prediction of system behavior, and hence form a crucial element of engineering design. A key concern is the validity of such models. This paper discusses the notion of model validity and the limits of what one can say about the validity of a specific model. It is shown that predictive models, such as those used in engineering design, cannot be validated objectively. That is, the validation of a predictive model can be accomplished only in the context of a specific decision, and only in the context of subjective input from the decision maker, including preferences.
Toward broadband, dynamic structuring of a complex plasmonic field
Authors: Wei Shibiao , Si Guangyuan , Malek Michael , Earl Stuart K. , Du Luping , Kou Shan Shan , Yuan Xiaocong , Lin Jiao
Published: June 2018

Researchers report a reconfigurable and wavelength-independent platform for generating a tailored plasmonic field distribution.
Thermal conductivity in Bi
0.5
Sb
1.5
Te

3+
x

and the role of dense dislocation arrays at grain boundaries
Authors: Deng Rigui , Su Xianli , Zheng Zheng , Liu Wei , Yan Yonggao , Zhang Qingjie , Dravid Vinayak P. , Uher Ctirad , Kanatzidis Mercouri G. , Tang Xinfeng
Published: June 2018

Reduction of lattice thermal conductivity in Bi
0.5
Sb
1.5
Te

3+
x

is absent despite dense dislocation arrays at grain boundaries.
A simple electron counting model for half-Heusler surfaces
Authors: Kawasaki Jason K. , Sharan Abhishek , Johansson Linda I. M. , Hjort Martin , Timm Rainer , Thiagarajan Balasubramanian , Schultz Brian D. , Mikkelsen Anders , Janotti Anderson , Palmstrøm Chris J.
Published: June 2018

A simple model explains the atomic and electronic structure of Heusler surfaces, supported by experiments and first-principles theory.
Evidence of link between quorum sensing and sugar metabolism in
Escherichia coli
revealed via cocrystal structures of LsrK and HPr
Authors: Ha Jung-Hye , Hauk Pricila , Cho Kun , Eo Yumi , Ma Xiaochu , Stephens Kristina , Cha Soyoung , Jeong Migyeong , Suh Jeong-Yong , Sintim Herman O. , Bentley William E. , Ryu Kyoung-Seok
Published: June 2018

AI-2–mediated quorum sensing of
E. coli
is directly connected to sugar metabolism via the phosphocarrier HPr protein of PTS.
Dirac surface state–modulated spin dynamics in a ferrimagnetic insulator at room temperature
Authors: Tang Chi , Song Qi , Chang Cui-Zu , Xu Yadong , Ohnuma Yuichi , Matsuo Mamoru , Liu Yawen , Yuan Wei , Yao Yunyan , Moodera Jagadeesh S. , Maekawa Sadamichi , Han Wei , Shi Jing
Published: June 2018

Spin dynamics of magnetic insulator is markedly modulated by the Dirac surface states in the adjacent topological insulator.
Higher-order topological insulators
Authors: Schindler Frank , Cook Ashley M. , Vergniory Maia G. , Wang Zhijun , Parkin Stuart S. P. , Bernevig B. Andrei , Neupert Titus
Published: June 2018

A new class of materials that are insulating in the bulk and on surfaces but have conducting hinge channels is studied.
Few Conserved Amino Acids in the Small Multidrug Resistance Transporter EmrE Influence Drug Polyselectivity
Authors: Saleh Marwah , Bay Denice C. , Turner Raymond J.
Published: June 2018

EmrE is the archetypical member of the small multidrug resistance transporter family and confers resistance to a wide range of disinfectants and dyes known as quaternary cation compounds (QCCs). The aim of this study was to examine which conserved amino acids play an important role in substrate selectivity.
Multiple Incursions and Recurrent Epidemic Fade-Out of H3N2 Canine Influenza A Virus in the United States
Authors: Voorhees Ian E. H. , Dalziel Benjamin D. , Glaser Amy , Dubovi Edward J. , Murcia Pablo R. , Newbury Sandra , Toohey-Kurth Kathy , Su Shuo , Kriti Divya , Van Bakel Harm , Goodman Laura B. , Leutenegger Christian , Holmes Edward C. , Parrish Colin R.
Published: June 2018

The relatively recent appearance of influenza A virus (IAV) epidemics in dogs expands our understanding of IAV host range and ecology, providing useful and relevant models for understanding critical factors involved in viral emergence. Here we integrate viral whole-genome sequence analysis and comprehensive surveillance data to examine the evolution of the emerging avian-origin H3N2 canine influenza virus (CIV), particularly the factors driving ongoing circulation and recent increases in incidence of the virus within the United States. Our results provide a detailed understanding of how H3N2 CIV achieves sustained circulation within the United States despite widespread host contact heterogeneity and recurrent epidemic fade-out. Moreover, our findings suggest that the types and intensities of selection pressures an emerging virus experiences are highly dependent on host population structure and ecology and may inhibit an emerging virus from acquiring sustained epidemic or pandemic circulation.
Batf3-Dependent Dendritic Cells Promote Optimal CD8 T Cell Responses against Respiratory Poxvirus Infection
Authors: Desai Pritesh , Tahiliani Vikas , Abboud Georges , Stanfield Jessica , Salek-Ardakani Shahram
Published: June 2018

During respiratory infection with vaccinia virus (VacV), a member of
Poxviridae
family, CD8
+
T cells play important role in resolving the primary infection. Effector CD8
+
T cells clear the virus by accumulating in the infected lungs in large numbers and secreting molecules such as IFN-γ that kill virally infected cells. However, precise cell types that regulate the generation of effector CD8
+
T cells in the lungs are not well defined. Dendritic cells (DCs) are a heterogeneous population of immune cells that are recognized as key initiators and regulators of T-cell-mediated immunity. In this study, we reveal that a specific subset of DCs that are dependent on the transcription factor Batf3 for their development regulate the magnitude of CD8
+
T cell effector responses in the lungs, thereby providing protection during pulmonary VacV infection.
Knowledge, attitudes and practice regarding copper intrauterine contraceptive devices among doctors in Malaysia
Authors: Chew Kah Teik , Salim Norsaadah , Abu Muhammad Azrai , Abdul Karim Abdul Kadir
Published: June 2018

Background and objective

Intrauterine contraceptive devices (IUDs) are an important method to reduce unmet need for family planning and for prevention of unintended pregnancy. However, IUD use in Malaysia is still low. Doctors play a major role in influencing IUD uptake among women. This study was designed to evaluate doctors’ knowledge, attitudes and perceptions towards IUDs and factors associated with their current practice.

Methods

A questionnaire was mailed to public and private contraceptive providers who practise in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Results

A total of 400 doctors were invited and 240 (60%) of them responded to the survey. Of the respondents, 161 (65.9%) were from the public or government sector and 89 (34.1%) were from the private sector. The knowledge score of doctors was classed as ’average', and correlated well with their previous training level, working position, number of patients seen in a week and number of contraceptive methods available in their facilities. The age, gender, working duration, availability of IUDs in the premises and number of IUD insertions in a month were not statistically associated with the providers’ knowledge. The use of IUDs was low, especially among private doctors, and was significantly related to their knowledge of the method. Knowledge scores, perception and practice were significantly lower in the private sector.
Longer stent retrievers enhance thrombectomy performance in acute stroke
Authors: Haussen Diogo C , Al-Bayati Alhamza R , Grossberg Jonathan A , Bouslama Mehdi , Barreira Clara , Bianchi Nicolas , Frankel Michael R , Nogueira Raul G
Published: June 2018

Background

Longer stent retrievers have recently become available and have theoretical advantages over their shorter counterparts. We aim to evaluate whether stent retriever length impacts reperfusion rates in stroke thrombectomy.

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected thrombectomy database in which equal diameter (4 mm) stent retrievers were used as the first-line strategy for intracranial internal carotid or middle cerebral artery M1 or M2 occlusions along with a balloon guide catheter from June 2011 to March 2017. The population was dichotomized into long (Trevo 4×30 mm/Solitaire 4×40 mm) or short (Trevo 4×20 mm/Solitaire 4×20 mm) retrievers. The primary outcome was first-pass modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction (mTICI) 2b/3 reperfusion.

Results

Of 1126 thrombectomies performed within the study period, 420 were included. Age, gender, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, ASPECTS, IV tissue plasminogen activator use, stroke etiology, occlusion site, time from last-known-normal to puncture, distribution of Trevo and Solitaire, and the use of newer generation local thromboaspiration devices were comparable between the long and short retrievers. The short retriever group had more frequent hypertension, dyslipidemia, and atrial fibrillation. First-pass mTICI 2b/3 reperfusion was more common in the long retriever group (62% vs 50%; P=0.01). Parenchymal hematomas type 2, subarachnoid hemorrhage, 90-day modified Rankin Scale score 0–2, and mortality were comparable. Multivariable analysis indicated that long retriever (OR 2.2; 95% CI 1.3 to 3.6; P=0.001), radiopaque device (OR 2.1; 95% CI 1.2 to 3.4; P=0.003), and adjuvant local aspiration (OR 2.4; 95% CI 1.3 to 4.3; P=0.003) were independently associated with first-pass reperfusion.

Conclusions

The use of longer stent retrievers is an independent predictor of first-pass mTICI 2b/3 reperfusion. First-pass reperfusion was also associated with the use of radiopaque devices and adjuvant local aspiration.
Clinically feasible stratification of 1-year to 3-year post-myocardial infarction risk
Authors: Horne Benjamin D , Muhlestein Joseph B , Bhandary Durgesh , Hoetzer Greta L , Khan Naeem D , Bair Tami L , Lappé Donald L
Published: June 2018

Objective

Post-myocardial infarction (MI) care is crucial to preventing recurrent major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), but can be complicated to personalise. A tool is needed that effectively stratifies risk of cardiovascular (CV) events 1–3 years after MI but is also clinically usable.

Methods

Patients surviving ≥1 year after an index MI with ≥1 risk factor for recurrent MI (ie, age ≥65 years, prior MI, multivessel coronary disease, diabetes, glomerular filtration rate <60 mL/min/1.73 m2) were studied. Cox regression derived sex-specific Intermountain Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events (IMACE) risk scores for the composite of 1-year to 3-year MACE (CV death, MI or stroke). Derivation was performed in 70% of subjects (n=1342 women; 3047 men), with validation in the other 30% (n=576 women; 1290 men). Secondary validations were also performed.

Results

In women, predictors of CV events were glucose, creatinine, haemoglobin, platelet count, red cell distribution width (RDW), age and B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP); among men, they were potassium, glucose, blood urea nitrogen, haematocrit, white blood cell count, RDW, mean platelet volume, age and BNP. In the primary validation, in women, IMACE ranged from 0 to 11 (maximum possible: 12) and had HR=1.44 per +1 score (95% CI 1.29 to 1.61; P<0.001); men had IMACE range 0–14 (maximum: 16) and HR=1.29 per +1 score (95% CI 1.20 to 1.38; P<0.001). IMACE ≥5 in women (≥6 in men) showed strikingly higher MACE risk.

Conclusions

Sex-specific risk scores strongly stratified 1-year to 3-year post-MI MACE risk. IMACE is an inexpensive, dynamic, electronically delivered tool for evaluating and better managing post-MI patient care.
Paraparesis in a cat caused by idiopathic sterile pyogranulomatous inflammation and necrosis of epidural fat
Authors: Lesske Nada A , Twito Roy , Krauß Maximiljan W , Bencini Röthlisberger Anne
Published: June 2018

A five‐month‐old Maine Coon tomcat was presented with acute non‐ambulatory paraparesis and severe spinal hyperaesthesia. Neurological examination was consistent with a spinal cord lesion between the third thoracic and the third lumbar segment. Diagnostic imaging and further laboratory work revealed an extradural mass consisting of sterile pyogranulomatous inflammation and necrosis of the epidural adipose tissue of unknown origin compressing the spinal cord dorsally at the 12th thoracic vertebra. The cat recovered well after surgical decompression and regained ambulation over the next three months. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report of an idiopathic sterile pyogranulomatous inflammation of epidural fat in a cat. Although rare, this disease should be included as a possible differential diagnosis for a paraparetic cat.
Metallic and antiferromagnetic fixed points from gravity
Authors: Paul Chandrima
Published: June 2018

We consider [Formula: see text] gauge theory coupled to matter field in adjoints and study RG group flow. We constructed Callan–Symanzik equation and subsequent [Formula: see text] functions and study the fixed points. We find there are two fixed points, showing metallic and antiferromagnetic behavior. We have shown that metallic phase develops an instability if certain parametric conditions are satisfied.
Performance of Steel-Reinforced Concrete-Filled Stainless Steel Tubular Columns at Elevated Temperature
Authors: Tan Qinghua , Gardner Leroy , Han Linhai
Published: June 2018

Steel-reinforced concrete-filled stainless steel tubular (SRCFSST) columns combine the advantages of concrete-filled stainless steel tubular (CFSST) columns and steel-reinforced concrete (SRC) columns, resulting in excellent corrosion resistance, good economy, good ductility, and excellent fire resistance. Thus, SRCFSST columns have many potential structural engineering applications, especially in offshore structures. The performance of SRCFSST columns at elevated temperatures is investigated by finite element (FE) analysis in this paper. Firstly, FE models capable of capturing the full load-deformation response of structural members at elevated temperatures are developed and validated against relevant published tests on CFSST and SRC columns under fire conditions. Based on the validated FE models, the behavioral mechanisms of the SRCFSST columns under fire are explained by analysis of the sectional temperature distribution, typical failure modes, axial deformation versus time response, and load redistribution. Finally, the fire resistance of SRCFSST columns is evaluated in comparison to CFSST columns with equivalent sectional load-bearing capacity at ambient temperature or equivalent steel ratios. The results lay the foundation for the development of fire resistance design rules for SRCFSST columns.
Discrete Tangent Stiffness Estimation Method for Pseudo Dynamic Test
Authors: Huang Liang , Chen Cheng , Guo Tong , Chen Menghui
Published: June 2018

In pseudo dynamic (PSD) test, researchers have long recognized the importance and potential benefits of utilizing the tangent stiffness of experimental specimen to correct the restoring force and analyze the energy error. However, improving accuracy and efficiency of the instantaneous stiffness estimation still presents a challenge. Based on the theory of discrete curve parameter recognition and the geometrical analysis approach, this paper proposes a discrete tangent stiffness estimation (DTSE) method to estimate the instantaneous tangent stiffness of a single degree of freedom (SDOF) experimental specimen. For different magnitudes of measurement noise, the proposed method can adaptively select and retain a series of latest valid data and ignore outdated information, of which the advantage is highly improving the accuracy and promptness of instantaneous stiffness estimation. The numerical study shows that the DTSE method has better accuracy and promptness of tangent stiffness estimation when compared with other existing methods. In a PSD test involving a sliding isolator, the DTSE method is utilized to analyze the cumulative energy error, the result of which shows the cumulative energy error is negative and decreases gradually. The analysis of experimental results demonstrates that the undershooting error of actuator added extra energy into the PSD testing system. Thus, the proposed method provides a desirable solution to instantaneous stiffness estimation.