cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Shape space sampling distributions and their impact on visual tracking

Object motions can be represented as a sequence of shape deformations and translations which can be interpretated as a sequence of points in N-dimensional shape space. These spaces range from simple 2D translations to more inclusive spaces such as the affine. In this case, tracking is the problem of inferring the most likely point in the space for the next frame given a current set of hypotheses. A robust method for achieving this is the particle filter. In this case, likely points within shape space are selected in a two step process. First, image measurements assign likelihoods to proposed points. Likely points are then propagated forward using a dynamical model to derive a set of new points that are perturbed according to some sampling distribution. These distributions play an important role in tracking performance because dynamical models are seldom known and a Gauss Markov model is often assumed for the model dynamics. This paper address the problems inherent in utilizing uninformed sampling distributions for visual tracking. We introduce a principled adaptive sampling approach that takes into account constraints on each component of the shape vector. Further a more appropriate sampling distribution that takes place in a linear subspace representing the predominant motion in the shape space. Results demonstrate improved tracking performance in challenging conditions where targets exhibit changing motion models.
Solutions to Yang-Mills field equations in eight dimensions and the last Hopf map

We will show that the Hopf map\(S^{15} \xrightarrow{{S^7 }}S^8\) admits a sourceless, topologically non-trivial gauge field. This result will be cast in the form of a solution to eight dimensional Euclidean Yang-Mills field equations with topological chargeQ=1. This solution is Spin (9) symmetric and leads to a new generalized duality conditionF∧F=±(F∧F)*.
Assessing Cross-Cultural Competence: A Review of Available Tests

Recent years have witnessed the emergence of a number of tests that measure cross-cultural competence; yet to date there is no review of their validity and reliability. This article addresses this gap in the literature. We discuss issues associated with evaluation of the content, construct, and ecological validity of such tests, and review the evidence for 10 tests. We evaluate that evidence, draw conclusions about the tests with the best evidence for ecological validity, and provide recommendations for future research in this area.
Management of oral feeding in children undergoing airway reconstruction

Objectives: To systematically evaluate perioperative management of oral feeding in children undergoing airway reconstruction. Study Design: A retrospective chart review of all patients who underwent open airway reconstruction from February 1, 2006 through July 31, 2008 at a tertiary care children's hospital. Methods: During the study period, a multidisciplinary protocol for perioperative management of alimentation was instituted. Swallowing function was evaluated pre- and postoperatively as part of a clinical management protocol. Results: Fifty-one patients underwent 55 reconstructions. Forty-eight of the patients (94%) have been decannulated. Eighteen single-stage procedures were performed on patients who were considered oral feeders, and oral feeding was successfully completed for three patients while the endotracheal tube was in place. Twenty-two double-stage procedures were performed on patients who were considered oral feeders. Oral feeding was initiated while the stent was in place for 16 patients. Nine patients (56%) did not tolerate oral feeding with the stent in place, five of whom had evidence of gross aspiration. Thirty-four of the 40 patients (85%) who were considered oral feeders at the time of their reconstruction returned to their preoperative diet with minimal therapy from the speech pathology service 1.9 days (range, 0―8 days) following extubation or stent removal. Six patients (15%) had clinically significant dysphagia. Conclusions: Safe oral alimentation early in the postoperative period is possible with a rigorous multidisciplinary approach. To minimize complications, postoperative oral feeding should be initiated in conjunction with a speech pathologist.
Learning Style and the Efficacy of Computer Training Methods

The Kolb Learning Style Inventory was administered to 80 novice computer users. Using one of two training methods based on different conceptual models, subjects were trained to use an electronic ma...
Risks, costs, and the expected complication of re-injury

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to determine the characteristics of young victims of violence and the risk of rehospitalization due to intentional injury (recidivism) and to estimate the potential cost of these injuries. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Trauma admissions from January 1, 1991 to December 31, 1993, at San Francisco General Hospital of youths Language: en
Vaccines in Pregnant Women and Research Initiatives

Successful maternal immunization requires consideration of maternal and infant disease burden, biological factors affecting immune response and placental transport of antibodies, optimal timing of immunization, safety and acceptability. Tetanus, inactivated influenza and acellular pertussis vaccines are recommended during pregnancy; others are recommended when maternal risk of infection is high. The development of new conjugate vaccines for use in adults may reduce global maternal and infant disease burden. Maternal immunization against group B streptococcus is projected to be superior to current preventative strategies in decreasing disease. Further evaluation of maternal immunization strategies to prevent maternal and infant infections is needed.
Geographic and Host-Associated Size Variation in the Parasitoid Wasp Torymus umbilicatus (Hymenoptera: Torymidae) in Florida: Implications for Host Survival and Community Structure

Acquisition of enemy-free-space has been suggested to reduce selective pressure against host range expansion in phytophagous insects. The gall midge, Asphondylia borrichiae Rossi and Strong (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae), which attacks the stem tips of its 3 host plants produces a spherical tumor-like growth (= gall). Juvenile stages (larvae and pupae) of A. borrichiae develop inside the gall; the midge spends approximately 95–98% of its life cycle embedded within the gall. During these juvenile stages, A. borrichiae are parasitized by 4 species of hymenopterans. Previous studies have found that one of the most common and the largest parasitoid, Torymus umbilicatus (Gahan), tends to dominate large galls owing to its significantly longer ovipositor, which enables it to penetrate the biggest galls and reach larvae and pupae that become unavailable to the other 3 parasitoids, which have much shorter ovipositors. Moreover, previous studies suggest that the gall midge is diverging both morphologically and genetically in sympatry. The current study is the first to provide morphological evidence that T. umbilicatus, which is a dominant member of the parasitoid guild that attacks A. borrichiae, may also be diverging in sympatry along with its host. Female T. umbilicatus from sea oxeye daisy (Borrichia frutescens [L.] DC) were significantly larger than those from alternative host plants of the gall midge, dune elder (Iva imbricata Walter) and marsh elder (I. frutescens L). Additionally, size of female T. umbilicatus collected from 2 geographically distant sites were significantly different and these differences were consistent with a latitudinal gradient in size between plant species. Although T. umbilicatus were larger from galls collected from B. frutescens compared to I. frutescens at both sites, gall diameter demonstrated a significant decline along a south-north latitudinal gradient. However, a significant interaction between plant species and site suggests that differences in T. umbilicatus size (and most likely their gall midge host) is caused either by phenotypic plasticity of the species at the 2 sites, or these insects (T umbilicatus and gall midges) tend to be smaller with increasing latitude. Moreover, galls on I, frutescens, owing to their smaller size and increased crowding, decline in size at a greater rate than those from B. frutescens which produces significantly larger and less crowded galls.
Toughening by Phase Boundary Propagation

Transformation toughening has enhanced the fracture toughness of certain Zirconia-Toughened Ceramics (ZTC) by factors of 2–4. The primary explanation of toughening, by McMeeking and Evans [1] and Budiansky et al. [2], suggests that the main source of toughening is the energy stored by the transformed inclusions in the wake of a propagating crack. In the case of supercritical ZTC where the boundary of the transformed zone is a phase boundary (surface of strain discontinuity), this paper suggests an additional source of toughening — that due to propagation of the phase boundary. By extending the J-integral to cracked bodies containing surfaces of strain discontinuity, the transformation toughening for a steady Mode I crack is evaluated.
Relevance in systems having a fuzzy-set-based semantics

Future automated question answering systems will typically involve the use of local knowledge available on the users' systems as well as knowledge retrieved from the Web. The determination of what information we should seek out on the Web must be directed by its potential value or relevance to our objective in the light of what knowledge is already available. Here we begin to provide a formal quantification of the concept of relevance and related ideas for systems that use fuzzy-set-based representations to provide the underlying semantics. We also introduce the idea of ease of extraction to quantify the ability of extracting relevant information from complex relationships. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Int Syst 22: 385–396, 2007.
Disentangling Listening and Verbal Recall Related But Separate Constructs

This study examines the relationship between verbal recall and listening, using measures of listening behavior as a criterion. Three possible models of the verbal recall-listening relationship are examined: isomorphic, confounding, and recall ability as antecedent to listening. Seventy-three participants were videotaped while interviewing a confederate, and the videotapes were coded for observable listening behaviors. Participants also completed a conversation-based listening test and a verbal recall test. The results indicated that, although related, listening and the ability to recall verbal stimuli are not isomorphic. The data were also inconsistent with a model specifying verbal recall ability as a confound of listening. A model stipulating verbal recall ability as antecedent to listening provided the best fit to the data. Implications of this model for past and future research are discussed.
A bar code scoring system for behavioral research.

A data collection method using lap-top computers and bar codes was developed and used in behavioral research. The studies involved several common sampling methods and a variety of study subjects. Advantages and restrictions of the system are discussed. Overall, we found bar code technology to increase both efficiency and accuracy of behavioral data collection.
On interior polytope number sequences

Polytope numbers for a given polytope are an integer sequence defined by the combinatorics of the polytope. Recent work by H. K. Kim and J. Y. Lee has focused on writing polytope number sequences as sums of simplex number sequences. In addition, these works have given a process for writing the polytope number sequence in a recursive fashion by using the interior sequence for the various k-faces of the polytope, each viewed as a k-dimensional polytope. This paper shows that the coefficients of the linear combination of simplex number are the h-vector components for a certain type of triangulation of the polytope. In addition, reversing the order of the coefficients in the linear combination is shown to equal the interior polytope sequence for this polytope.
Activators and Inhibitors in Pattern Formation

A wide class of diffusion reaction equations with activator-inhibitor reaction dynamics are studied analytically. It is shown that when the inhibitor diffuses much faster than the activator, patterns with large amplitude nonuniformities may exist. It is further shown that with a slightly nonuniform source of activator, the patterns which emerge from the time dependent process have a directional preference. The results given coincide with the numerical results of Gierer and Meinhardt [6].
The Crash in Perspective

The October 1987 crash of stock prices is a largely unexplainable event, much like any other setting of prices in the stock market, only larger. If anything the market operated efficiently in moving prices to a new level that tended to persist for many months thereafter, thus indicating that the crash was not an overreaction. Statements by the SEC chairman concerning a possible trading halt and the halt in index arbitrage trading probably added to the volatility. Attempts to limit volatility by regulation are misguided and will prove damaging.
Microbiota-based model improves the sensitivity of fecal immunochemical test for detecting colonic lesions

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second leading cause of death among cancers in the United States. Although individuals diagnosed early have a greater than 90 % chance of survival, more than one-third of individuals do not adhere to screening recommendations partly because the standard diagnostics, colonoscopy and sigmoidoscopy, are expensive and invasive. Thus, there is a great need to improve the sensitivity of non-invasive tests to detect early stage cancers and adenomas. Numerous studies have identified shifts in the composition of the gut microbiota associated with the progression of CRC, suggesting that the gut microbiota may represent a reservoir of biomarkers that would complement existing non-invasive methods such as the widely used fecal immunochemical test (FIT). We sequenced the 16S rRNA genes from the stool samples of 490 patients. We used the relative abundances of the bacterial populations within each sample to develop a random forest classification model that detects colonic lesions using the relative abundance of gut microbiota and the concentration of hemoglobin in stool. The microbiota-based random forest model detected 91.7 % of cancers and 45.5 % of adenomas while FIT alone detected 75.0 % and 15.7 %, respectively. Of the colonic lesions missed by FIT, the model detected 70.0 % of cancers and 37.7 % of adenomas. We confirmed known associations of Porphyromonas assaccharolytica, Peptostreptococcus stomatis, Parvimonas micra, and Fusobacterium nucleatum with CRC. Yet, we found that the loss of potentially beneficial organisms, such as members of the Lachnospiraceae, was more predictive for identifying patients with adenomas when used in combination with FIT. These findings demonstrate the potential for microbiota analysis to complement existing screening methods to improve detection of colonic lesions.
PS-253b Gluten Free Diet For Children With Attention Deficit And Hyperactivity Disorder

Background and aims Attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a complex neurodevelopmental-neurobiological disorder of behaviour, which is characterised by increased hyperactivity levels. Also, many of the children diagnosed with ADHD have significant nutritional problems. The aim of the study was to investigate the correlation of the hyperactivity status of these children with major nutritional changes using gluten free diet. Methods A total number of 48 children aged 4.5 to 10 years were enrolled. All of them were diagnosed with attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder. Also, all children were tested for IgA deficiency, EMA and anti-tTg autoantibodies, and 3 children with abnormal tests were excluded. The 45 remaining children group was randomly divided in two subgroups: 22 of the children started gluten free diet (group A) and the rest 23 children continued their previous diet (group B). Hyperactivity status was measured using properly arranged questionnaire model and special scoring system for the therapist and the parents. Statistical analysis was performed using the statistical program SPSS/19 and x 2 -test. Results After 6 months of intervention, statistical significant difference (p Conclusions Children suffering from attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder have increased hyperactivity status, but it seems that gluten free diet has much to offer in order to lower hyperactivity levels.
Mach 5 Bow shock Control by a Nanosecond Pulse Surface DBD 1

The present work demonstrates feasibility of Mach 5 bow shock control by low-temperature, nanosecond pulse, surface dielectric barrier discharge operated both single-pulse and at a high pulse repetition rate (100 kHz). A diffuse nanosecond pulse discharge was generated in a DBD actuator on a surface of a cylinder model placed in air flow in a supersonic test section. Plasma temperature inferred from N2 emission spectra is only a few tens of degrees higher than flow stagnation temperature, T=340±30 K. Phase-locked schlieren images are used to detect compression waves generated by individual nanosecond discharge pulses near the actuator surface. The compression wave propagates upstream toward the baseline bow shock standing in front of the cylinder model. Interaction of the compression wave and the bow shock causes its displacement in the upstream direction, thereby increasing shock stand-off distance by up to 25%. The compression wave speed behind the bow shock and the perturbed bow shock velocity are inferred from the schlieren images. The effect of compression waves generated by nanosecond discharge pulses on shock stand-off distance demonstrated in a single-pulse regime (at pulse repetition rates of a few hundred Hz) and in a quasi-continuous model (at a pulse repetition rate of 100 kHz). The results demonstrate feasibility of hypersonic flow control by low-temperature, repetitive nanosecond pulse discharges.
501 COMMUNITY-ACQUIRED ACINETOBACTER BAUMANII PNEUMONIA IN A 75-YEAR-OLD VETERAN.

Acinetobacter baumanii is a well-known causative agent of nosocomial infections. However, community-acquired A. baumanii pneumonia is rare in the United States; thus, we present this case of community-acquired pneumonia with a fulminant course. A 75-year-old Caucasian male with hypertension, moderate chronic obstructive lung disease, alcoholism, and diabetes mellitus presented with dyspnea, changes in behavior, hypotension, and hypoxemia with diffuse wheezes and crackles. Chest radiography showed dense right base infiltrate. He had profound respiratory distress started on BiPAP support and was treated with azithromycin and ceftriaxone. Blood Gram stain showed gram-negative diplococci, suggesting Neisseria meningitidis infection. CSF fluid was negative for infection. Final blood culture grew A. baumanii. Antibiotics were changed to imipenem and vancomycin. His condition continued to deteriorate, and the patient9s family decided to withdraw care, leading to the patient9s demise. Risk factors associated with community-acquired Acinetobacter pneumonia are smoking, significant alcohol use, and/or concomitant comorbid conditions (COPD, HTN, DM). Patients present with fever, cough, and dyspnea and progresses to shock with a very fulminant course. A HIGH index of suspicion is warranted during the initial course. The organism has been described as a gram-negative coccibacilli. Rarely, as in our case, it may initially be described as a gram-negative diplococcus, leading to the delay in appropriate therapy. With the increasing prevalence of hospital-acquired Acinetobacter infection, we need to maintain high vigilance in the bacterial flora responsible for community-acquired pneumonia.
Neurologic disorders of pregnancy. Connective tissue disorders.

Although neurological manifestations are well described in patients with connective tissue diseases, there is no evidence of increased frequency during pregnancy. Treatment varies with the neurological disorder and the nature of pathogenetic process, with modifications of usual therapies sometimes required during pregnancy. Termination of pregnancy is a consideration only with the more serious vasculitic diseases (i.e., PAN or WG), in patients with cardiac or renal failure, or in patients with severe exacerbations of their systemic disease that is refractory to therapy.
Development and characterization of a long-acting nanoformulated abacavir prodrug.

Aim: A myristoylated abacavir (ABC) prodrug was synthesized to extend drug half-life and bioavailability. Methods: Myristoylated ABC (MABC) was made by esterifying myristic acid to the drug's 5-hydroxy-cyclopentene group. Chemical composition, antiretroviral activity, cell uptake and retention and cellular trafficking of free MABC and poloxamer nanoformulations of MABC were assessed by proton nuclear magnetic resonance and tested in human monocyte-derived macrophages. Pharmacokinetics of ABC and nanoformulated MABC were evaluated after intramuscular injection into mice. Results: MABC antiretroviral activity in monocyte-derived macrophages was comparable to native drug. Encasement of MABC into poloxamer nanoparticles extended drug bioavailability for 2 weeks. Conclusion: MABC synthesis and encasement in polymeric nanoformulations improved intracellular drug accumulation and demonstrate translational potential as part of a long-acting antiretroviral regimen.
Public Enterprise Management Through State Holding Companies

Concerns about public enterprise management, especially since the 1980s, have been closely associated with more generalized concerns about the role of the state in processes of production. Whether in specific enterprises or industries in the context of a mixed market economy, or across the entire economy, in a system of centralized planning, state owned and operated production units have been associated with economic inefficiencies leading to lower relative levels of output, a diversion of resources from their most productive uses and internal economic inefficiencies in management and motivation within the productive unit.1 A major cause of the economic inefficiencies of public enterprises is the difficulty of reconciling the multiple political, social and ideological aims of governments and government-appointed managers guiding the operations of these enterprises, with the achievement of economic efficiency. These concerns have led to the adoption of a wide spectrum of mechanisms to modify or alter the controls and obligations between governments and state owned enterprises to better achieve these multiple and sometimes conflicting objectives.
Unemployment and Unhappiness: The Role of Pecuniary Factors

The happiness literature finds that unemployment substantially decreases subjective well-being even after controlling for income. Existing research uses non-pecuniary costs to explain such results. This paper, however, demonstrates that the root cause is pecuniary. The detrimental effects of unemployment decrease considerably after including an additional control for pecuniary costs, subjective financial evaluation. Non-pecuniary theories have less explanatory power than, but are compatible with, pecuniary factors. Policy implications are discussed.
More than Food Porn: Twitter, Transparency, and Food Systems

This article explores the ways in which social media, specifically Twitter, can provide transparency to local and national food systems. Those interested in and invested in food systems should focus more attention on the mundane, but easily dismissed, photos and tweets that populate Twitter, Instagram, and other social media feeds, especially those from chefs, mobile food vendors, and fishermen and women. As evidence, the article includes excerpts from interviews with and observations of chefs, food cart operators, and fishermen and women operating in the state of Rhode Island.
Tailored versus Mass Produced: Portfolio Managers Concurrently Managing Separately Managed Accounts and Mutual Funds

Using a matched sample of separately managed accounts (SMAs) and mutual funds (MFs) with the same portfolio manager and investment style, we find that concurrently managed MFs consistently underperform their SMAs counterparts and generate more negative return gaps. Fund characteristics and liquidity betas fail to fully explain the underperformance. An event-study analysis finds that the weights placed into top (bottom)-performing stocks increase for existing SMAs (MFs) and negative return gaps increase for the MFs after the onset of concurrent management. We find that higher compensation collected by SMA fund managers are associated with more unseen managerial actions which positively contribute to the SMA return gap. Our results suggest that when managers concurrently manage both SMAs and MFs, they favor SMA performance over their MF performance.
The Mortal Voice in the Tragedies of Aeschylus

Voice connects our embodied existence with the theoretical worlds we construct. This book argues that the voice is a crucial element of mortal identity in the tragedies of Aeschylus. It first presents conceptions of the voice in ancient Greek poetry and philosophy, understanding it in its most literal and physical form, as well as through the many metaphorical connotations that spring from it. Close readings then show how the tragedies and fragments of Aeschylus gain meaning from the rubric and performance of voice, concentrating particularly on the Oresteia. Sarah Nooter demonstrates how voice - as both a bottomless metaphor and performative agent of action - stands as the prevailing configuration through which Aeschylus' dramas should be heard. This highly original book will interest all those interested in classical literature as well as those concerned with material approaches to the interpretation of texts.
A four-drawing art therapy trauma and resiliency protocol study

Abstract Resiliency, as fostered by creativity, imagination, and the arts therapies, is a critical factor in managing the impact of adversity. This pilot study investigated the potential effectiveness of a four-drawing art therapy trauma and resiliency protocol for coping with adverse life events. The protocol is designed according to memory reconsolidation research and based in art therapy relational neuroscience (ATR-N) principles and trauma models. The hypotheses were that participation in the four-drawing protocol would result in: decreases in overall effect of the traumatic event (hypothesis one), decreases in negative affect endorsement and rating as expressed by sadness, grief, depression and anxiety (hypothesis two and three), reductions in pain endorsement and rating (hypothesis four and five), increases in resiliency-based resources (hypothesis six), positively rated impact on participants’ understanding of the problem and resources (hypothesis seven), increases in posttraumatic growth cognitions (hypothesis eight), and increases in relational security (hypothesis nine). The positive effects of the four-drawing protocol components, including the drawings, questionnaires, and inquiry were examined. Main findings included significant decreases in the rating of the effect of the traumatic event (hypothesis one), self-reported endorsement and ratings of negative affect (hypothesis two and three), trends in pain reduction ratings (hypothesis five), significant increases in endorsed resiliency resources (hypothesis six), and positive ratings of the impact of the drawing activity (hypothesis seven), but no significant changes in endorsement of pain (hypothesis four), posttraumatic growth cognitions (hypothesis eight), or relational security (hypothesis nine). Additional results revealed that decreased endorsement and ratings of negative affect continued to be maintained at follow-up, and that the inquiry had a self-reported positive impact on participants’ understanding and meaning-making of the traumatic event. It is possible that memory reconsolidation processes may account for the positive changes.
Building a Virtue Theory for Business

The author describes here the development of modern and contemporary virtue ethics, concentrating on Adam Smith’s business related moral theories.
The Evolution of Conspicuous and Distinctive Coloration for Communication in Birds

Our goal is to elucidate the selective pressures that account for the origin and maintenance of conspicuous and distinctive coloration (hereafter referred to collectively as colorfulness) in birds. Our ideas are relevant to the study of other animals as well. We propose an “adaptationist program” (Gould and Lewontin, 1979) that features the use of the comparative method (Hailman, 1976; Ridley, 1983; Clutton-Brock and Harvey, 1984), color manipulations, and tests of a priori predictions. Our major effort is to compare and contrast the major hypotheses that have been proposed to account for colorfulness in birds. Progress in understanding bird coloration will come more quickly when researchers evaluate more than one hypothesis at a time. The availability of multiple hypotheses serves two major purposes. First, it frees the researcher from psychological dependence on the hypotheses being tested (Loehle, 1987). Second, with careful planning, it permits strong inference testing (Platt, 1964) among the most relevant hypotheses.
Immunoglobulin and Complement Systems of Amphibian Serum

Current advances in knowledge of mammalian immunoglobulin structure have spurred investigative efforts directed toward the development of more primitive study models. Historical observations of Metchnikoff (1) and Widal and Sicard (2) described the capacity for antibody production and its temperature dependence in amphibians. These early observations provided tire basis for recent renewed emphasis on research in this field.
Application of unsupervised learning to hyperspectral imaging of cardiac ablation lesions.

Atrial fibrillation is the most common cardiac arrhythmia. It is being effectively treated using the radiofrequency ablation (RFA) procedure, which destroys culprit tissue and creates scars that prevent the spread of abnormal electrical activity. Long-term success of RFA could be improved further if ablation lesions can be directly visualized during the surgery. We have shown that autofluorescence-based hyperspectral imaging (aHSI) can help to identify lesions based on spectral unmixing. We show that use of k-means clustering, an unsupervised learning method, is capable of detecting RFA lesions without a priori knowledge of the lesions’ spectral characteristics. We also show that the number of spectral bands required for successful lesion identification can be significantly reduced, enabling the use of increased spectral bandwidth. Together, these findings can help with clinical implementation of a percutaneous aHSI catheter, since by reducing the number of spectral bands one can reduce hypercube acquisition and processing times, and by increasing the spectral width of individual bands one can collect more photons. The latter is of critical importance in low-light applications such as intracardiac aHSI. The ultimate goal of our studies is to help improve clinical outcomes for atrial fibrillation patients.
Two-phase flow distribution of saturated refrigerants in microchannel heat exchanger headers

Abstract Mini- and microchannel heat exchangers have the potential to drastically decrease the size and cost of thermal systems, but they often underperform because of flow maldistribution. Maldistribution can be particularly acute when a two-phase mixture enters a heat exchanger header, which is difficult to address because the flow phenomena in these situations are poorly understood. In the present study, flow distribution in microchannel heat exchanger manifolds is investigated. The work focuses on two-phase flow regimes and distribution characteristics of saturated R134a in heat exchanger headers. The results quantify the effects of inlet mass flux (23.9
Compositional data analysis as an alternative paradigm for nutritional studies

Summary Background & aim Although the compositional nature of dietary data is well recognized, little attention has been given to the methods specifically developed for the statistical analysis of compositional data. The use of standard statistical procedures that ignore the relative nature of compositional elements can lead to spurious results when applied to crude data. This note proposes using a compositional data approach for the statistical analysis of nutritional data. Methods The analyses of data from an Italian population study of 673 non-diabetic women aged 40–74 years were based on isometric log-ratio (ilr) transformation applied to three dietary compositions: seven-part macronutrients, nine-part vitamins and six-part minerals. The ilr transformation produces new variables that represent specific contrasts (balances) between the compositional parts. Different sequential binary partitions have been described and used as a means of flexibly defining balances on the basis of a researcher's interest, and the new variables (that are suitable for undergoing standard statistical procedures) have been included as covariates in linear regression models in order to examine the isocaloric associations between specific dietary balances and waist circumference (WC). Results Regardless of the dietary compositions, total energy was positively and fibre intake was negatively associated with WC. Net of these effects and keeping constant the proportional relationships between the other dietary components, WC was negatively associated with the relative increase in starches, and positively associated with the relative niacin content. Vitamin C was negatively associated with WC, whereas folate content was positively related. Discussion The proposed approach allows a clear interpretation of the relative roles of different dietary components within a holistic overview of a diet. The analyses involving WC provide some useful insights.
Bayesian Signal Recovery Under Measurement Matrix Uncertainty: Performance Analysis

Compressive sensing (CS) has gained a lot of attention in recent years due to its benefits in saving measurement time and storage cost in many applications including biomedical imaging, wireless communications, image reconstruction, remote sensing, and so on. The CS framework enables signal recovery from a small number of linear measurements with an acceptable fidelity taking advantage of signal sparsity in some potentially unknown domain. The core idea of different variants of CS methods is incorporating prior knowledge about the input signal (e.g., prior distribution or sparsity of signals) into the recovery algorithm to restrict the search space and enhance the signal recovery performance. However, the accuracy of signal reconstruction can be significantly compromised if the designed and implemented measurement matrices do not fully match. Often times, the measurement matrix mismatch is treated as an additional noise term in the recovery algorithm ignoring the fact that this mismatch is a learnable quantity which includes random but constant or slow-varying terms during the lifetime of the measurement system. In this paper, we consider this problem for a simple case of Gaussian prior with a sparsity-driven diagonal covariance matrix and find strict bounds on the deviation of the reconstructed signal from the optimal case of fully known measurement matrix based on the properties of the mismatch matrix. The obtained bounds are general, and hence can be used to assess the performance of learning algorithms designed for learning measurement matrix uncertainty and eliminating its effect from the signal recovery. We provide numerical results to illustrate this concept in real-world applications.
Multidirectional 3D-printed functionally graded modular joint actuated by TCPFL muscles for soft robots

Highly deformable bodies are essential for numerous types of applications in all sorts of environments. Joint-like structures comprising a ball and socket joint have many degrees of freedom that allow mobility of many biomimetic structures. Recently, soft robots are favored over rigid structures for their highly compliant material, high-deformation properties at low forces, and ability to operate in difficult environments. However, it is still challenging to fabricate complex designs that satisfy application constraints due to the combined effects of material properties, actuation method, and structural geometry on the performance of the soft robot. Therefore, a combination of a rigid joint and a soft body can help achieve modular robots with fully functional body morphology. Yet, the fabrication of soft parts requires extensive molding for complex shapes, which comprises several processes and can be time-consuming. In addition, molded connections between extremely soft materials and hard materials can be critical failing points. In this paper, we present a functionally graded 3D-printed joint-like structure actuated by novel contractile actuators. Functionally graded materials (FGMs) via 3D printing allow for extensive material property enhancement and control which warrant tunable functionalities of the system. The 3D-printed structure is made of 3 rigid ball and socket joints connected in series and actuated by integrating twisted and coiled polymer fishing line (TCPFL) actuators, which are confined in the FGM accordion-shaped channels. The implementation of the untethered TCPFL actuation system can be highly beneficial for deployment in environments that require low vibrations and silent actuation. The fishing line TCP actuators produce an actuation strain up to 40% and bend the joint up to 40° in any direction. The TCPFL can be actuated individually or as a group to control the bending trajectory of the modular joint, which is beneficial when deployed in areas that contain small crevices. Obtaining complex modes of bending, the FGM multidirectional joint demonstrated a great potential to achieve different functionalities such as crawling, rolling, swimming, or underwater exploration.
Zebrafish Integumentary System

Abstract Zebrafish skin separates the fish from its environment and provides physical, chemical, and biological protection. The skin is a multilayered organ with a superficial epithelial epidermis that provides a semiimpermeable chemical barrier and hosts a variety of sensory modalities. An underlying dermis is dominated by extracellular structures: the dense collagenous stroma provides tensile strength, and calcified scales protect from puncture injury. A hypodermis lines muscle cells at the deep limit of the skin and supports pigment cells that constitute the stripes. Here, we review the anatomy and development of zebrafish skin.
Bioprosthetic Valve Remodeling – Flexing to Solve Challenges of Innovation

Few medical fields have faced disruptive innovation to the extent experienced by the field of structural heart disease, where transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has progressed from bench...
Reporter‐Guided Transposon Mutant Selection for Activation of Silent Gene Clusters in Burkholderia thailandensis

Most natural product biosynthetic gene clusters that can be observed bioinformatically are silent. This insight has prompted the development of several methodologies for inducing their expression. One of the more recent methods, termed reporter-guided mutant selection (RGMS), entails creation of a library of mutants that is then screened for the desired phenotype via reporter gene expression. Herein, we apply a similar approach to Burkholderia thailandensis and, using transposon mutagenesis, mutagenize three strains, each carrying a fluorescent reporter in the malleilactone (mal), capistruin (cap), or an unidentified ribosomal peptide (tomm) gene cluster. We show that even a small library of <500 mutants can be used to induce expression of each cluster. We also explore the mechanism of activation and find that inhibition of pyrimidine biosynthesis is linked to the induction of the mal cluster. Both a transposon insertion into pyrF as well as small-molecule-mediated inhibition of PyrF trigger malleilactone biosynthesis. Our results pave the way toward the broad application of RGMS and related approaches to Burkholderia spp.
Systematic Homogenization and Self-Consistent Flux and Pin Power Reconstruction for Nodal Diffusion Methods —I: Diffusion Equation-Based Theory

A diffusion equation-based systematic homogenization theory and a self-consistent dehomogenization theory for fuel assemblies have been developed for use with coarse-mesh nodal diffusion calculatio...
The research pogress in fusion glycoprotein of human respiratory syncytial virus

The fusion glycoprotein (F) of human respiratory syncytial vires(RSV) is an important viral envelop protein which can induce protective immunity against RSV infection.The structural and functional characteristics of F protein play a central role in the understanding of infection and immunity,and in the development of vaccine. Key words: Human respiratory syncytial virus; Fusion glycoprotein
Copper-Catalyzed Enantioselective Hydroalkoxylation of Alkenols for the Synthesis of Cyclic Ethers.

The copper-catalyzed enantioselective intramolecular hydroalkoxylation of unactivated alkenes for the synthesis of tetrahydrofurans, phthalans, isochromans, and morpholines from 4- and 5-alkenols i...
Genomic Surveillance of Ceftriaxone-Resistant Escherichia coli in Western New York Suggests the Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamase blaCTX-M-27 Is Emerging on Distinct Plasmids in ST38.

Extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Enterobacteriaceae pose significant treatment and infection prevention challenges. Escherichia coli sequence type (ST) 131 associated with the bla CTX-M-15 gene has been the dominant lineage of ESBL-producing E. coli in the US and worldwide. In this study, our objective was to determine the β-lactamase profile, means of dissemination, prevalence, and the clonal identity of ESBL-producing E. coli in our region of Western New York. Whole-genome SNP-based phylogenomics was used to assess 89 ceftriaxone-resistant (CTR) E. coli. Isolates were collected from both inpatients and outpatients and from urine and sterile-sites over a 2 month period in 2017 or throughout the year, respectively. ST131 was the predominant ST (46.0%), followed by ST38 (15.7%). The bla CTX-M-15 gene was commonly found in 53.7% of ST131 isolates, whereas the bla CTX-M-27 gene was found in 26.8% of ST131, though was significantly associated with ST38, and was found in 71.4% of those strains. When compared to ST131, ST38 E. coli exhibited increased frequency of resistance to nitrofurantoin and decreased frequency of resistance to ciprofloxacin and ampicillin-sulbactam. Using Nanopore long-read sequencing technology, an analysis of the ESBL genetic context showed that the bla CTX-M-15 gene was chromosomal in 68.2% of ST131, whereas the bla CTX-M-27 gene was plasmid-borne in all ST131 and 90% of ST38 isolates. Notably, the bla CTX-M-27 gene in ST38 resided on highly-related (99.0-100.0% identity and 65.0-98.0% query coverage) conjugative IncF plasmids of distinct plasmid multi-locus sequence types (pMLSTs) from those in ST131. Furthermore, ST131 and ST38 were found to harbor different antibiotic resistance gene and virulence factor profiles. These findings raise the possibility of an emerging ESBL-producing E. coli lineage in our region.
Sybil Attack Detection and Prevention in VANETs: A Survey

VANETs are communication devices that connect vehicles and Roadside Units. The usage of VANETs in traffic management and toll administration systems has increased recently. VANETs carry security issues similar to MANETs, and one of such security issues is Sybil attacks, which refers to an attack where an illusion is created with an individual node being shown as multiple nodes to influence the voting in VANETs to its advantage. Various methodologies have been proposed for Sybil attacks detection and prevention under the categories of Trusted Certification, Resource Testing, and Position verification. Each of these methods under these categories has the goal of detecting Sybil Attacks and preserving the privacy of benign nodes.
The impact on food security of a shrinking Lake Chad

Abstract The fourth largest lake in Africa, Lake Chad has shrunk by nearly ninety percent since the 1960s, which has impacted food security and livelihoods for fifty million people residing in the Lake Chad Basin. This short communication discusses how decreased rainfall, exacerbated by climate change, and human activity have contributed to the lake's shrinking and recommends individual, national, and multilateral coordinated interventions to ensure food security needs are met for the millions of people who rely on the lake for sustenance.
Elevated APOBEC mutational signatures implicate chronic injury in etiology of an aggressive head-and-neck squamous cell carcinoma: a case report.

Aggressive squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) present frequently in the context of chronic skin injury occurring in patients with the congenital blistering disease recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa. Recently, these cancers were shown to harbor mutation signatures associated with endogenous deaminases of the active polynucleotide cytosine deaminase family, collectively termed APOBEC, and clock-like COSMIC [Catalogue of Somatic Mutations in Cancer] signatures, which are associated with normal aging and might result from cumulative DNA replication errors. We present a case of a nasal septal SCC arising in the context of recurrent injury, but also modest past tobacco use. Our genetic analysis of this tumor reveals unusually high APOBEC and clock-like but low tobacco-related COSMIC signatures, suggesting that chronic injury may have played a primary role in somatic mutation. This case report demonstrates how signature-based analyses may implicate key roles for certain mutagenic forces in individual malignancies such as head-and-neck SCC, with multiple etiological origins. We report the case of a 43-year-old male former smoker who presented with congestion and swelling following a traumatic nasal fracture. During surgery, the mucosa surrounding the right nasal valve appeared abnormal, and biopsies revealed invasive keratinizing SCC. Frozen section biopsies revealed multiple areas to be positive for SCC. Gene sequencing showed loss of PTEN (exons 2–8), CDKN2A/B and TP53 (exons 8–9), MYC amplification, and BLM S338*. Exome sequencing data also revealed that 36% of mutations matched an APOBEC mutational signature (COSMIC signatures 2 and 13) and 53% of mutations matched the clock-like mutation signature (COSMIC signature 5). These proportions place this tumor in the 90th percentile bearing each signature, independently, in a reference data set combining cutaneous and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) head and neck SCC data. In contrast, few mutations harbored a tobacco-related COSMIC signature 4, representing about the 10th percentile in our reference SCC data set. The patient was treated with partial rhinectomy with local flap reconstruction, bilateral neck dissection, and adjuvant radiation therapy; the patient remains disease-free to date. Based on comparative mutational signature analysis, we propose that the history of tobacco use and traumatic injury may have collaborated in activating APOBEC enzymes and the clock-like mutational process, ultimately leading to cancer formation. Clinical awareness of the relationship between epithelial injury and tumorigenesis should enhance earlier detection of this particularly aggressive type of cancer.
Model Feedback Control for Adaptive Cold Atmospheric Plasma

Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) is an ionized gas operated at near ambient temperature, which can be applied as an innovative therapeutic technology for cancers treatment. In actual treatment, application of CAP jet is highly affected by both the intrinsic variability of plasma characteristics and exogenous factors such as cancer cells types and medium property. In this study, a preliminary work was conducted as a model feedback control model on CAP jet in Simulink. The model predictive control (M PC) is used to obtain the optimized match between input parameters and goal of output parameters [2], [3]. To that end real time cell response of cancer and normal cells is monitored by RealTime assay [1], [4].