cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
On Variance-Reduced Simulations of the Boltzmann Transport Equation for Small-Scale Heat Transfer Applications

We present and discuss a variance-reduced stochastic particle simulation method for solving the relaxation-time model of the Boltzmann transport equation. The variance reduction, achieved by simulating only the deviation from equilibrium, results in a significant computational efficiency advantage compared with traditional stochastic particle methods in the limit of small deviation from equilibrium. More specifically, the proposed method can efficiently simulate arbitrarily small deviations from equilibrium at a computational cost that is independent of the deviation from equilibrium, which is in sharp contrast to traditional particle methods. The proposed method is developed and validated in the context of dilute gases; despite this, it is expected to directly extend to all fields (carriers) for which the relaxation-time approximation is applicable.
Three Dimensional Simulation of Solutal Dendrite Growth Using Lattice Boltzmann and Cellular Automaton Methods

Abstract To simulate three dimensional (3D) solute-driven dendrite growth, a new numerical technique is introduced that combines the lattice Boltzmann (LB) and cellular automaton (CA) methods to calculate the transport phenomena and capture the solid/liquid interface, respectively. The effect of undercooling and degree of anisotropy on the kinetics of dendrite growth and the parallel performance of the model are studied. The present model can be used as a novel tool for simulating 3D dendrite growth with high computational efficiency and large-scale parallelization.
The schistosomicidal compound Ro 15-5458 causes a reduction in the RNA content of Schistosoma mansoni

The effect of Ro 15-5458 (10-2-(diethylamino)ethyl-9-acridanone(2-thiazolin- 2-yl)hydrazone) on the steady-state RNA levels of Schistosoma mansoni was studied after dosing the host with 15 mg kg-1 and retrieving parasites. Total RNA content of parasites recovered from the host 12, 72 and 96 h after dosing was reduced by 14, 30 and 41%, respectively. Quantitative filter hybridization of blots of RNA extracted from treated and control parasites with specific probes indicated a decline in actin and superoxide dismutase mRNA as well as rRNA of treated parasites. The decline was observed 12 h after dosing, 48 h before parasites showed drug-induced changes in other vital biological processes. A prominent drug-induced reduction was seen on the 1.9 kb actin mRNA compared to the 1.4 kb. The same dose of the drug did not alter the actin mRNA content of the host liver. Similarly, the administration of the inactive structural analogue Ro 21-6787 (10-2-(diethylamino)ethyl-9-acridanone) was without any effect. We propose that the actions of Ro 15-5458 and/or its products are directed towards the inhibition of the expression of parasite genes.
The isolation of gentian positive individuals from a suspension of a gentian negative organism (b. coli)

If divided gentian violet plates be stroked with increasingly weak dilutions of a suspension of the Gram negative and gentian negative B. coli, the organism will grow equally well on the two halves of the plate in the strokes made with strong dilutions, while in the strokes made with weak dilutions many more colonies will appear on the plain agar than on the gentian violet agar. If the dilution be very weak, in many instances no colonies whatever appear on the gentian violet side. This is due to the fact that only a relatively small proportion of the individuals, in a suspension of a Gram negative organism, are really gentian negative. If the suspension be thick this small proportion of individuals is, absolutely, sufficiently large in quantity to produce good growth in the presence of the dye. If, on the other hand, the suspension be weak, the gentian negative individuals are not only proportionally but absolutely few in number; few colonies therefore appear on the gentian violet agar; if the dilution be...
Feinstone SM, Kapikian AZ, Purcell RH. Hepatitis A: detection by immune electron microscopy of a virus like antigen associated with acute illness [Science 1973;182:1026-1028].

Spherical 27-namometer particles were visualized in stools obtained from Hepatitis A patients in the acute stage of the disease. The particle was serologically specific for this disease, and every Hepatitis A patient tested demonstrated a serological response to this antigen. The findings suggest that it is the etiologic agent of Hepatitis A.
Boning Methods and Binders Affect Bind and Sensory Characteristics of Structured Beef

Steaks, fabricated with hot- (HB) or cold-boned (CB) beef and structured with salt/phosphate (SP), sodium alginate (ALG), or ALG and albumin, were packaged aerobically and anaerobically and displayed at 2°C for up to 30 days to determine effects of boning methods and binders on structured steak properties. Using SP and CB meat resulted in darker (p< 0.05) non-bloomed and bloomed steaks. Adding albumin had little effect on changing color of ALG steaks. Steaks with stronger cohesion (p<0.05) were produced when SP was used. Structured steaks fabricated with CB meat were more tender than those made using HB meat. In addition, steaks made with either meat type exhibited similar binding properties (p<0.05).
Regularization methods for optimization problems with probabilistic constraints

We analyze nonlinear stochastic optimization problems with probabilistic constraints on nonlinear inequalities with random right hand sides. We develop two numerical methods with regularization for their numerical solution. The methods are based on first order optimality conditions and successive inner approximations of the feasible set by progressive generation of p-efficient points. The algorithms yield an optimal solution for problems involving α-concave probability distributions. For arbitrary distributions, the algorithms solve the convex hull problem and provide upper and lower bounds for the optimal value and nearly optimal solutions. The methods are compared numerically to two cutting plane methods.
The fine structure of the flagellar apparatus of Chlamydomonas moewusii.

Abstract The flagella of Chlamydomonas moewusii are similar to those of other Protista except for a small cylinder which lies within the peripheral fibrils in the basal region of the flagellum and is traversed by a diaphragm. The flagella of the 11 nonmotile mutants examined display no abnormality in internal structure, though in some strains the flagella are only 0.6–1.0 μ in length. The protoplasmic bridge joining mated cells has an electron-dense core formed by extensions from the anterior projections of the blepharoplasts.
Sensory and textural attributes and fatty acid profiles of fillets of extensively and intensively farmed Eurasian perch (Percafluviatilis L.)

Sensory attributes, texture and fatty acid profiles of fillets of Eurasian perch (Percafluviatilis L.) reared under two conditions were compared. Perch were reared either in an extensive pond-based (EC) system in polyculture with carp, or intensively cultured (IC) in a recirculation system. Attributes of raw and cooked fillets of marketable perch (120-150g) were compared. No significant differences were found between groups for odour, flavour, aftertaste, or consistency in subjective evaluation of cooked fillets. The texture profile analysis (TPA) showed raw fillets from the EC group to exhibit higher values of hardness, springiness, cohesiveness, and gumminess than the IC group. Fish from the IC group had a lower content of saturated fatty acids (SFA) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and a higher content of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) in comparison to EC perch. The proportion of iso- and anteiso-SFAs was 2.6% in the EC group and 0.75% in the IC group. The content of n-3 PUFA was lower in IC than in EC, while the content of n-6 PUFA was higher in IC than in EC. The ratio of n-3:n-6 PUFA was 1.42 for the IC group and 2.85 for the EC group.
The Inference of GATE Convective Rainfall from SMS-1 Imagery

Abstract Quantitative precipitation estimates have been made for the GARP (Global Atmospheric Research Program) Atlantic Tropical Experiment (GATE) from geosynchronous, infrared satellite imagery and a computer-automated technique that is described in this paper. Volumetric rain estimates were made for the GATE A scale (1.43 × 107 km2) and for a 3° square (1.10 × 105 km2) that enclosed the B scale for time frames ranging from all of GATE (27 June—20 September 1974) down to 6 h segments. The estimates for the square are compared with independent rain measurements made by four C-band digital radars that were complemented by shipboard raingages. The A-scale estimates are compared to rainfall estimates generated by NASA using Nimbus 5 microwave imagery. Other analyses presented include: 1) comparisons of the satellite rain estimates over Africa with raingage measurements, 2) maps of satellite-inferred locations and frequencies of new cumulonimbus cloud formation, mergers and dissipations, 3) latitudinal preci...
Co-phylogenetic analysis of Anaplasma phagocytophilum and its vectors, Ixodes spp. ticks

The coevolutionary history of Ixodes spp. ticks, the obligately tick-transmitted bacterial pathogen Anaplasma phagocytophilum, and its various rodent reservoir hosts world-wide is not known. According to coevolution theory, the most recently evolved of tick–bacterial complexes could have difficulty maintaining A. phagocytophilum in nature, because transmissibility has not been efficiently maximized. This study was intended to examine the phylogeographic history of I. ricinus-subgroup ticks and A. phagocytophilum, provide an estimate for the date of the divergence of A. marginale and A. phagocytophilum, and evaluate whether there is correspondence between tick and Anaplasma spp. trees. Analysis of Ixodes spp. ticks showed a New World clade consisting of I. scapularis and I. pacificus, European I. ricinus as a sister group to this clade, and Asian I. persulcatus as basal. Of the three A. phagocytophilum genes evaluated, the most resolution was provided by the ankA gene. ankA sequences formed an Old World clade with eastern North America strains as a sister clade. California strains were highly diverse and did not form a clade. Base substitution rates were very comparable along both A. marginale and A. phagocytophilum lineages. Based on 16S rDNA analysis, maximum and minimum divergence times of A. phagocytophilum and A. marginale were calculated to be 78,296,703 and 43,415,708 years, respectively. If A. phagocytophilum did closely coevolve with specific I. ricinus-subgroup tick species, then A. phagocytophilum strains could have specialized on local tick species and optimized local infectivity in the Old World and eastern US. However, lack of absolute resolution of tick trees and conflicting prevalence data (with low prevalence in Asia and western North America) preclude us from inferring a tight coevolutionary relationship of tick species from this phylogeographic analysis.
Coronary vascular remodeling in association with endothelial dysfunction

Vascular remodeling has been demonstrated in advanced and early coronary artery disease. Whereas the endothelium may play a role in the adaptive process of vascular remodeling, it is not known if this process occurs in association with changes in coronary blood flow reserve. Early coronary atherosclerosis is characterized by endothelial dysfunction which is manifested by an abnormal coronary blood flow in response to the endothelium-dependent vasodilator acetylcholine. This study was designed to test the hypothesis that coronary vascular remodeling occurs in association with coronary endothelial dysfunction early in the development of coronary atherosclerosis. Thirty-six patients found to have normal coronary angiograms or mild coronary artery disease were studied. Acetylcholine was infused into the left anterior descending artery. Patients were divided into 2 groups based on their coronary blood flow response to acetylcholine. Intravascular ultrasound measurements of the proximal left anterior descending diameter and area were obtained. Vessel diameter and area were measured at the external elastic membrane and indexed to body surface area. Vessel diameter and area were greater in patients with abnormal than normal responses to acetylcholine (5.2 ± 0.3 mm and 19.5 ± 0.9 mm2 vs 3.9 ± 0.3 mm and 12.3 ± 1.0 mm2; p <0.02, respectively). This difference persisted when measurements were indexed to body surface area. The current study suggests in vivo in humans that coronary vascular remodeling characterized by enlargement of the proximal coronary arteries occurs in association with endothelial dysfunction early in the course of coronary artery disease.
Health Disparities and Gaps in School Readiness.

Summary The author documents pervasive racial disparities in the health of American children and analyzes how and how much those disparities contribute to racial gaps in school readiness. She explores a broad sample of health problems common to U.S. children, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, asthma, and lead poisoning, as well as maternal health problems and health-related behaviors that affect children’s behavioral and cognitive readiness for school. If a health problem is to affect the readiness gap, it must affect many children, it must be linked to academic performance or behavior problems, and it must show a racial disparity either in its prevalence or in its effects. The author focuses not only on the black-white gap in health status but also on the poor-nonpoor gap because black children tend to be poorer than white children. The health conditions Currie considers seriously impair cognitive skills and behavior in individual children. But most explain little of the overall racial gap in school readiness. Still, the cumulative effect of health differentials summed over all conditions is significant. Currie’s rough calculation is that racial differences in health conditions and in maternal health and behaviors together may account for as much as a quarter of the racial gap in school readiness. Currie scrutinizes several policy steps to lessen racial and socioeconomic disparities in children’s health and to begin to close the readiness gap. Increasing poor children’s eligibility for Medicaid and state child health insurance is unlikely to be effective because most poor children are already eligible for public insurance. The problem is that many are not enrolled. Even increasing enrollment may not work: socioeconomic disparities in health persist in Canada and the United Kingdom despite universal public health insurance. The author finds more promise in strengthening early childhood programs with a built-in health component, like Head Start; family-based services and home visiting programs; and WIC, the federal nutrition program for women, infants, and small children. In all three, trained staff can help parents get ongoing care for their children.
A Novel Statistical Approach for Jointly Analyzing RNA-Seq Data from F1 Reciprocal Crosses and Inbred Lines

RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) not only measures total gene expression but may also measure allele-specific gene expression in diploid individuals. RNA-seq data collected from F1 reciprocal crosses in mice can powerfully dissect strain and parent-of-origin effects on allelic imbalance of gene expression. In this article, we develop a novel statistical approach to analyze RNA-seq data from F1 and inbred strains. Method development was motivated by a study of F1 reciprocal crosses derived from highly divergent mouse strains, to which we apply the proposed method. Our method jointly models the total number of reads and the number of allele-specific reads of each gene, which significantly boosts power for detecting strain and particularly parent-of-origin effects. The method deals with the overdispersion problem commonly observed in read counts and can flexibly adjust for the effects of covariates such as sex and read depth. The X chromosome in mouse presents particular challenges. As in other mammals, X chromosome inactivation silences one of the two X chromosomes in each female cell, although the choice of which chromosome to be silenced can be highly skewed by alleles at the X-linked X-controlling element (Xce) and stochastic effects. Our model accounts for these chromosome-wide effects on an individual level, allowing proper analysis of chromosome X expression. Furthermore, we propose a genomic control procedure to properly control type I error for RNA-seq studies. A number of these methodological improvements can also be applied to RNA-seq data from other species as well as other types of next-generation sequencing data sets. Finally, we show through simulations that increasing the number of samples is more beneficial than increasing the library size for mapping both the strain and parent-of-origin effects. Unless sample recruiting is too expensive to conduct, we recommend sequencing more samples with lower coverage.
Detection of aterations in left ventricular fatty acid metabolism in patients with acute myocardial infarction by 15-(p-123I-phenyl)-pentadecanoic acid and tomographic imaging☆

Abstract 15-(p-iodine 123-phenyl)-pentadecanoic acid (IPPA) is a synthetic radiolabeled fatty acid with kinetics similar to palmitate. Fourteen patients who had had an acute myocardial infarction 7 ± 6 days earlier and 9 normal volunteers were studied after being injected with IPPA. The volunteers were remarkable for homogeneous uptake and metabolism of IPPA; 13 of 14 infarct patients showed areas of decreased uptake >2 SDs below the mean of the voluntters. Metabolism was homogeneous in the volunteers (14.2% ± 5.8%) and was significantly higher than in regions identified as infarcted (3.9% ± 12.1%, p p
FOUR-CORNER ARTHRODESIS

Although nearly every combination of intercarpal arthrodeses has been described, excision of the scaphoid and fusion of the remaining carpal bones in neutral alignment was a unique concept when it was introduced nearly 20 years ago. This time-tested and established procedure that is commonly known as the 4-corner or 4-bone arthrodesis is based on the principle that the radiolunate articulation is often spared from degenerative changes from conditions that result in rotatory subluxations of the scaphoid. The 4-corner arthrodesis is a motion-sparing, limited arthrodesis that reliably results in pain relief, improved grip strength, and overall high patient satisfaction with low associated nonunion and complication rates. Copyright © 2001 by the American Society for Surgery of the Hand
INHIBITION OF RABBIT RENAL ORNITHINE DECARBOXYLASE ACTIVITY BY LEAD

Ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) is the first and the rate-limiting enzyme in polyamine biosynthesis. Polyamines play key roles in cell proliferation, renal membrane transportation, and plasma membrane calcium fluxes. As part of a multidisciplinary research project to evaluate the application of the rabbit as a relevant model for male reproductive toxicology, the effect of blood lead on rabbit renal ODC activity was investigated. Kidneys from rabbits with experimentally established total blood lead concentrations of 0, 20, 40, and 80 mug/dL and maintained at these concentrations for 10 weeks were removed at sacrifice and assayed for ODC activity. ODC activity of rabbit kidney decreased as blood lead concentration increased in a dose-dependent manner. Direct addition of lead to ODC assay mixture did not alter ODC activity. At the blood lead concentrations examined, body weights of each group increased constantly throughout the study period. Overt lead toxicity was not present among the rabbits during the expo...
Order matters: pre-assessments and student generated representations

People have preconceived notions about how the world works from personal experiences. When these notions are scientifically inaccurate they can encourage unintended learning outcomes. Thus assessing students’ prior knowledge is important, allowing instructors to target misconceptions and optimize learning. However, the structure/administration of pre-assessments can influence students’ achievement and potentially mask errors in understanding. We investigated the influence of pre-assessment task order on students’ tree thinking responses. We investigated student responses on a two-tiered pretest and an associated tree building task from 133 participants. Differences in the styles of student generated representations were significantly related to task order. This influence creates the challenge of diagnosing student ideas and facilitating conceptual change, while not accidentally provoking misconceptions in the process.
Real-time speech motion synthesis from recorded motions

Data-driven approaches have been successfully used for realistic visual speech synthesis. However, little effort has been devoted to real-time lip-synching for interactive applications. In particular, algorithms that are based on a graph of motions are notorious for their exponential complexity. In this paper, we present a greedy graph search algorithm that yields vastly superior performance and allows real-time motion synthesis from a large database of motions. The time complexity of the algorithm is linear with respect to the size of an input utterance. In our experiments, the synthesis time for an input sentence of average length is under a second.
Olmesartan Medoxomil–Induced Angioedema

Objective:To report a case of olmesartan medoxomil-induced angioedema in an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor–naive patient.Case Summary:A 61-year-old white woman with hypertension experienced significant swelling of her face, neck, and lips 10 days after initiation of olmesartan medoxomil 20 mg/day. After discontinuation of the drug, symptoms resolved within 10 days. Use of the Naranjo probability scale indicated a probable association between angioedema and olmesartan medoxomil.Discussion:An angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) is, in many cases, considered a safe alternative to an ACE inhibitor since serum bradykinin is thought not to be affected. However, angioedema has been reported with the use of ARBs, suggesting alternative pathways or mechanisms that result in this adverse reaction. Although not proven in humans, one explanation is that a secondary stimulation of angiotensin II AT2 receptors produces an increase in tissue bradykinin, resulting in angioedema.Conclusions:As of February 26...
The World Epidemic of Sleep Disorders Is Linked to Vitamin D Deficiency

Abstract An observation of sleep improvement with vitamin D supplementation led to a 2 year uncontrolled trial of vitamin D supplementation in 1500 patients with neurologic complaints who also had evidence of abnormal sleep. Most patients had improvement in neurologic symptoms and sleep but only through maintaining a narrow range of 25(OH) vitamin D3 blood levels of 60–80 ng/ml. Comparisons of brain regions associated with sleep–wake regulation and vitamin D target neurons in the diencephalon and several brainstem nuclei suggest direct central effects of vitamin D on sleep. We propose the hypothesis that sleep disorders have become epidemic because of widespread vitamin D deficiency. The therapeutic effects together with the anatomic–functional correspondence warrant further investigation and consideration of vitamin D in the etiology and therapy of sleep disorders.
Free-breathing late gadolinium enhancement CMR with a fixed short scan time using CosMo

To evaluate the performance of compressed sensing for motion correction (CosMo) [1] in compensating the respiratory motion of the heart in 3D late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) CMR.
What Sperm Can Teach us About Energy Production

Mammalian sperm have evolved under strict selection pressures that have resulted in a highly polarized and efficient design. A critical component of that design is the compartmentalization of specific metabolic pathways to specific regions of the cell. Although the restricted localization of mitochondria to the midpiece is the best known example of this design, the organization of the enzymes of glycolysis along the fibrous sheath is the primary focus of this review. Evolution of variants of these metabolic enzymes has allowed them to function when tethered, enabling localized energy production that is essential for sperm motility. We close by exploring how this design might be mimicked to provide an energy-producing platform technology for applications in nanobiotechnology.
On the Phase-Space Dynamics of Systems of Spiking Neurons. I: Model and Experiments

We investigate the phase-space dynamics of a general model of local systems of biological neurons in order to deduce the salient dynamical characteristics of such systems. In this article, we present a detailed exposition of an abstract dynamical system that models systems of biological neurons. The abstract system is based on a limited set of realistic assumptions and thus accommodates a wide range of neuronal models. Simulation results are presented for several instantiations of the abstract system, each modeling a typical neocortical column to a different degree of accuracy. The results demonstrate that the dynamics of the systems are generally consistent with that observed in neurophysiological experiments. They reveal that the qualitative behavior of the class of systems can be classified into three distinct categories: quiescence, intense periodic activity resembling a state of seizure, and sustained chaos over the range of intrinsic activity typically associated with normal operational conditions in the neocortex. We discuss basic ramifications of this result with regard to the computational nature of neocortical neuronal systems.
New sulfone electrolytes for rechargeable lithium batteries.: Part I. Oligoether-containing sulfones

Abstract Sulfones with different length of oligo ethylene glycol segments have been synthesized and tested for use in rechargeable lithium batteries. Relative to the model compound ethylmethyl sulfone (EMS), which has a melting point of 36.5 °C, the new sulfones have low melting points, mostly depressed below room temperature. Their conductivities are lower than that of EMS. The highest ambient temperature conductivity of 10 −2.58 S cm −1 was obtained for 0.7 M LiTFSI/MEMS solution (MEMS is methoxyethylmethylsulfone). The sulfones showed wide electrochemical stability windows, in excess of 5.0 V vs. Li/Li + , increasing with decreasing length of the oligoether chains. Unlike their fluorinated analogs, the present sulfones prove incompatible with graphite anode hosts, but a cell with lithium metal anode and manganate cathode performed well, maintaining good coulomb efficiency over 200 cycles.
Using the Bayesian network relative risk model risk assessment process to evaluate management alternatives for the South River and upper Shenandoah River, Virginia

We have conducted a series of regional scale risk assessments using the Bayesian Network Relative Risk Model (BN-RRM) to evaluate the efficacy of 2 remediation options in the reduction of risks to the South River and upper Shenandoah River study area. The 2 remediation options were 1) bank stabilization (BST) and 2) the implementation of best management practices for agriculture (AgBMPs) to reduce Hg input in to the river. Eight endpoints were chosen to be part of the risk assessment, based on stakeholder input. Although Hg contamination was the original impetus for the site being remediated, multiple chemical and physical stressors were evaluated in this analysis. Specific models were built that incorporated the changes expected from AgBMP and BST and were based on our previous research. Changes in risk were calculated, and sensitivity and influence analyses were conducted on the models. The assessments indicated that AgBMP would only slightly change risk in the study area but that negative impacts were also unlikely. Bank stabilization would reduce risk to Hg for the smallmouth bass and belted kingfisher and increase risk to abiotic water quality endpoints. However, if care were not taken to prevent loss of nesting habitat to belted kingfisher, an increase in risk to that species would occur. Because Hg was only one of several stressors contributing to risk, the change in risk depended on the specific endpoint. Sensitivity analysis provided a list of variables to be measured as part of a monitoring program. Influence analysis provided the range of maximum and minimum risk values for each endpoint and remediation option. This research demonstrates the applicability of ecological risk assessment and specifically the BN-RRM as part of a long-term adaptive management scheme for managing contaminated sites. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2017;13:100-114. © 2016 SETAC.
The Capital Gap: Nollywood and The Limits of Informal Trade

This article examines Nollywood as a creative industry based in Africa’s informal sector. By definition, the informal sector produces no financial records, so no quantitative economic data are presented. This research utilizes ethnographic methods and anthropological analysis to highlight the importance of the video movie industry to Nigerian people, its place in their economic life and its integral role in their culture. Nollywood’s intimacy with Nigerians has been achieved by way of the industry’s distinctive informal system of production and distribution. This same informality prevents the video industry from establishing financial legitimacy. Without the ability to generate capital, the industry is straining against its economic limits. Thus, the cultural success of Nollywood pushes it towards inevitable formalization and uncertain consequences.
Effect of weekly releases of Toxorhynchites amboinensis (Doleschall) on Aedes aegypti (L.) (Diptera: Culicidae) in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Weekly releases of the larval predator, Toxorhynchites amboinensis (Doleschall), into a 16-block neighborhood with substandard housing in New Orleans, La., during 1982 reduced Aedes aegypti (L.) densities by ca. 45% when compared with similar, but untreated areas. Increasing the number of adults released per week from 100 to 300 females per block did not improve the degree of control achieved, indicating that lower release numbers may be adequate to achieve this level of control. Releasing 100 predators per block resulted in a 40% reduction in Culex quinquefasciatus Say. Examining the area surrounding the study site revealed that there was very little movement of T. amboinensis females between blocks during the 7-month study. The results suggest that it may be possible to develop a practical method to control A. aegypti mosquitoes in urban areas using T. amboinensis .
Atomic Force Microscopy Captures the Initiation of Methyl-Directed DNA Mismatch Repair

In Escherichia coli, errors in newly-replicated DNA, such as the incorporation of a nucleotide with a mis-paired base or an accidental insertion or deletion of nucleotides, are corrected by a methyl-directed mismatch repair (MMR) pathway. While the enzymology of MMR has long been established, many fundamental aspects of its mechanisms remain elusive, such as the structures, compositions, and orientations of complexes of MutS, MutL, and MutH as they initiate repair. Using atomic force microscopy, we--for the first time--record the structures and locations of individual complexes of MutS, MutL and MutH bound to DNA molecules during the initial stages of mismatch repair. This technique reveals a number of striking and unexpected structures, such as the growth and disassembly of large multimeric complexes at mismatched sites, complexes of MutS and MutL anchoring latent MutH onto hemi-methylated d(GATC) sites or bound themselves at nicks in the DNA, and complexes directly bridging mismatched and hemi-methylated d(GATC) sites by looping the DNA. The observations from these single-molecule studies provide new opportunities to resolve some of the long-standing controversies in the field and underscore the dynamic heterogeneity and versatility of MutSLH complexes in the repair process.
MR myocardial perfusion imaging in the detecting of myocardial viability (a study of 47 patients)

Objective To assess the role of MR myocardial perfusion imaging (MRMPI) in detecting the viabilitive of myocardium in patient with old myocardial infarction (OMI) Methods MRMPI was performed in 47 patients suffering from old myocardial infarction with 1 5 T MR scanner Male 44, female 3, age ranged from 30 to 87 years with a mean of 61 years All patients were imaged during the first pass and delayed phase 5-30 min after injection of Gd DTPA 0 1 mmol/kg at 5 ml/s using IR turbo FLASH sequence Short axis images were acquired during the first pass, and both short axis and long axis images during delayed phase The left ventricular wall on short axis slice was divided into 8 segments A correlative study was carried out in 17 patients with the results of rest and stress 99m Tc SPECT scanning Results In 47 patients of old myocardial infarction, 29(61 7%) showed hypoenhancement during the first pass imaging (the SI was 50 20±7 45 percent of normal segment)and 46(97 9%) revealed delayed hyperenhancement(the SI was 491 0±197 26 percent of normal segment). For delayed hyperenhancement, 10(21 3%) was transmural ,15(31 9%) was nontransmural, and 21(44 7%) mixed, another one was normal 37 segments in 17 patients revealed to be nonviable by rest and stress 99m Tc SPECT, and the MRMPI all showed delayed hyperenhancement 116 viable segments on rest and stress 99m Tc SPECT, and no delayed hyperenhancement in 97 segments (83 6%) on MRMPI With the rest and stress 99m Tc SPECT as a standard of reference the sensitivity and the specificity of MRMPI were 100.0% and 83 6% respectively Conclusion The myocardial viability and nonviability as well as their severity and extent may be effectively evaluated with MRMPI in patients with OMI
Thermoelectric Properties of NaCo2 − xFexOy

NaCo2O4 has one of the highest figures of merit among all ceramic thermoelectric materials. Because of its large thermopower and low resistivity, the ceramic oxide NaCo2O4 is a promising candidate for potential thermoelectric applications. NaCo2O4 is, moreover, a ceramic compound with high decomposition temperature and chemical stability in air and it does not contain any toxic elements. Like all 3-d transition ions, Co ions have multiple spin and oxidation states. In this investigation, thermopower and electrical conductivity of NaCo2O4 as a function of substitution of Co by Fe ions were measured. Fe substitution for Co causes resistivity to increase, whereas the Seebeck coefficient remained nearly invariant, especially above 330 K.
Death as Escape and Rebirth in Fritz Von Unruh's Ein Geschlecht

(1969). Death as Escape and Rebirth in Fritz Von Unruh's Ein Geschlecht. The Germanic Review: Literature, Culture, Theory: Vol. 44, No. 2, pp. 110-120.
Polarization-selective three-photon absorption and subsequent photoluminescence in CsPbBr 3 single crystal at room temperature

We report on highly polarization-selective three-photon absorption (3PA) in a Bridgman-grown single crystal of ${\mathrm{CsPbBr}}_{3}$ oriented along the (112) direction, which is an inorganic counterpart to emerging organic-inorganic hybrid halide perovskites for solar-cell and optoelectronic applications. The crystal exhibits strong photoluminescence (PL) at room temperature as a direct consequence of 3PA of fundamental radiation. Interestingly, 3PA disappears when the input polarization is parallel to the $(\ensuremath{-}110)$ direction. This 3PA effect is strongest when orthogonal to $(\ensuremath{-}110)$ and the corresponding 3PA coefficient was measured to be $\ensuremath{\gamma}=0.14\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.03\phantom{\rule{0.28em}{0ex}}{\mathrm{cm}}^{3}/{\mathrm{GW}}^{2}$ under picosecond-pulse excitation at the fundamental wavelength of $\ensuremath{\lambda}=1200$ nm. The laser-induced damage threshold was also determined to be about 20 GW/${\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$ at the same wavelength. Based on relative PL intensities upon $\ensuremath{\lambda}$ tuning over the entire 3PA range ($1100\text{--}1700$ nm), we determined the nonlinear optical dispersion of the 3PA coefficient for ${\mathrm{CsPbBr}}_{3}$, which is consistent with a theoretical prediction. Experimentally observed significant polarization dependence of $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ was explained by relevant selection rules. The perovskite is potentially important for nonlinear optical applications owing to its highly efficient 3PA-induced PL response with a sharp on/off ratio by active polarization control.
Understanding the self-management skills of persons with epilepsy.

Abstract Purpose To determine whether the self-management skills of persons with epilepsy (PWE) vary across the different domains of the Epilepsy Self-Management Scale (ESMS). Methods 172 PWE completed a survey questionnaire as well as the ESMS. Results Using ANOVA with pairwise comparison, the mean item scores of the medication, seizure, and safety management subscales of the ESMS were significantly higher than the lifestyle and information management subscales (p Conclusion PWE in our population performed differently across the various domains of the ESMS and did worse on the lifestyle and information management subscales. We discuss the implications of this on patient counseling and education.
Adsorption of metals by geomedia III: Fundamentals and implications of metal adsorption

Abstract Adsorption of metals by geomedia plays an important role in regulating a wide range of biogeochemical cycles and reactions. Despite decades of efforts, much remains unknown about the mechanisms of metal adsorption, and about the role adsorption plays in critical biogeochemical reactions, mainly because of the extreme heterogeneity of geomedia surfaces. This special volume results from a 20-year anniversary symposium entitled, “Adsorption of Metals by Geomedia III” that was held at the 2016 American Chemical Society spring meeting. This collection of review and research articles represents a sampling of recent progress in understanding the mechanisms and effects of metal adsorption reactions, using theoretical computational approaches, spectroscopic analyses, and benchtop experiments. The objective of putting together this special volume is to reflect on the progress that has been made recently and to foster future research in this area. Only by summarizing the progress that has been made over the past 10 years can we effectively determine the remaining questions that need to be answered in the next 10 years. We hope that the articles in this volume serve both of these purposes, and that interfacial surface geochemists of all ages are inspired to work on these interesting and important questions.
Inguinal pain and fullness due to an intravascular leiomyoma in the external iliac vein.

Abstract Intravascular leiomyomatosis (IVL) is a benign smooth muscle tumor that evolves from the pelvic veins and can spread to the central veins and heart. Cardiac involvement is the most commonly reported presentation. Initial diagnosis is difficult, and IVL is commonly misdiagnosed as thrombus or atrial myxoma. Appropriate imaging and a high clinical suspicion are required for accurate diagnosis. We report a rare case of IVL in the external iliac vein that recurred 4 years after hysterectomy. Only four cases have been reported in the literature to involve the external iliac vein as it has no direct connection to pelvic venous drainage.
Overview of the Last 25 Years and 13 International Congresses on Antiphospholipid Antibodies

The topic of antiphospholipid antibodies has generated a significant amount of interest among physicians and researchers of multiple subdisciplines over the last 28 years. Thirteen international congresses have been conducted from 1984 to 2010. This introductory chapter highlights the contents of those scientific gatherings, which clearly depicted the evolution and the continued enthusiasm on gaining new knowledge in the field of Antiphospholipid Syndrome.
Framework Convention on Tobacco Control Implementation in Nigeria: Lessons for Low- and Middle-Income Countries.

Background Nigeria is a significant tobacco market and influential country in Africa. Nigeria ratified the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) in 2005. We reviewed Nigeria's tobacco control legislation since 2000 and compliance of the National Tobacco Control Act (NTCA) 2015 with the FCTC. Methods We reviewed the National Tobacco Control Bills 2011 (proposed by legislature) and 2014 (proposed by Executive), the NTCA 2015, and media stories on tobacco control from 2008 to 2017. Results The NTCA, despite being more comprehensive than Nigeria's first Tobacco Smoking (Control) law of 1990, maintained provisions promoted by the tobacco industry, for example: allowing designated smoking areas in hospitality venues, higher educational institutions, and transportation venues; a loophole in the advertising restrictions allowing communications with consenting adults; and having the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) (which includes tobacco companies) on the National Tobacco Control Committee charged with working with the Ministry of Health to implement the law. The industry is also directly involved with the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) in preparing regulations on cigarette constituents and emissions. In an unprecedented step globally, the law requires that implementing regulations be approved by the National Assembly, giving the industry another opportunity to weaken this law further by lobbying the legislators to favor the industry. As of January 2018, the law was still not being enforced. Conclusion The NTCA can be strengthened through implementation guidelines still being developed. The industry should be prevented from interfering with through MAN and SON, as required by FCTC Article 5.3. Implications The tobacco industry works to block Framework Convention on Tobacco Control implementation even after a country ratifies the treaty. The Nigerian case illustrates that it is essential for health authorities to remain vigilant and ensure that the tobacco industry does not play a decision-making role in the process of tobacco legislation and regulation either directly or indirectly. The unprecedented step of requiring approval of implementing regulations for the Nigerian law should not be allowed to become a precedent in other countries.
Competition between crazing and shear flow during fatigue

This paper deals with the ability of polymers to easily undergo shear deformation and crazing simultaneously at the propagating crack tip. A unique plastic zone, the epsilon plastic zone, reflects this behavior. The epsilon plastic zone has only been observed under sub-critical fatigue crack propagation conditions, i.e., under discontinuous crack growth, where multiple load cycles must occur before the crack can propagate. The shear-craze competition at the crack tip can lead to a variety of unique crack growth behavior and fatigue lifetime inversions. This behavior can be displayed in fatigue fracture diagrams.
The release of leukocytes and platelets from the pulmonary circulation by epinephrine.

1. The leukocyte and platelet contents of arterial and venous blood of 12 patients were determined simultaneously during and following the intravenous administration of 0.1 to 0.3 mg. of epinephrine, l -epinephrine or norepinephrine. 2. Within 30 to 60 seconds after the start of the epinephrine administration, an initial arterial leukocytosis and thrombocytosis occurred in 10 and 8 instances respectively and continued for at least 5 minutes before it declined. A leukocytosis also occurred in the venous blood but followed the arterial rise by 30 to 120 seconds. 3. It is concluded that the initial phase of the leukocytosis and thrombocytosis following intravenous epinephrine infusion is primarily from the pulmonary circulation. 4. The data indicate that the pulmonary circulation in man is a sizable reservoir of leukocytes and platelets which may be readily discharged into the circulation under proper stimulation.
Neighborhood Fact-Gathering

No set of facts is as elusive as neighborhood facts. For the researcher who analyzes census data, one set of conclusions appears to emerge. For the researcher who talks to longtime residents, there may be a different picture. And finally, for the researcher who lives in the neighborhood for a few years, yet another set of facts may appear most pertinent. Thus what most researchers know about neighborhoods may be a mixture of their personal experiences, their aspirations regarding living conditions in America, and their research evidence.
Regression Models for Ordinal Data

SUMMARY A general class of regression models for ordinal data is developed and discussed. These models utilize the ordinal nature of the data by describing various modes of stochastic ordering and this eliminates the need for assigning scores or otherwise assuming cardinality instead of ordinality. Two models in particular, the proportional odds and the proportional hazards models are likely to be most useful in practice because of the simplicity of their interpretation. These linear models are shown to be multivariate extensions of generalized linear models. Extensions to non-linear models are discussed and it is shown that even here the method of iteratively reweighted least squares converges to the maximum likelihood estimate, a property which greatly simplifies the necessary computation. Applications are discussed with the aid of examples.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Putative Marine Pathogen Thalassobius sp. I31.1.

ABSTRACT Thalassobius sp. I31.1 is a putative pathogen involved in epizootic shell disease in the American lobster (Homarus americanus). We report here the draft genome sequence for Thalassobius sp. I31.1 and provide insight into its metabolism and links to environmental pollutant degradation.
The Effect of Bariatric Surgery Prior to Lower-Extremity Total Joint Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review:

BackgroundObesity is an independent risk factor for osteoarthritis and has been associated with increased rate of complications following lower-extremity total joint arthroplasty (TJA). Bariatric s...
Simulation of model overfit in variance explained with genetic data

Abstract Two recent papers, and an author response to prior commentary, addressing the genetic architecture of human temperament and character claimed that “The identified SNPs explained nearly all the heritability expected”. The authors’ method for estimating heritability may be summarized as: Step 1: Pre-select SNPs on the basis of GWAS p
Novel stochastic methods to predict short-term solar radiation and photovoltaic power

Abstract Solar forecasting has evolved towards becoming a key component of economical realization of high penetration levels of photovoltaic (PV) systems. This paper presents two novel stochastic forecasting models for solar PV by utilizing historical measurement data to outline a short-term high-resolution probabilistic behavior of solar. First, an uncertain basis functions method is used to forecast both solar radiation and PV power. Three possible distributions are considered for the uncertain basis functions - Gaussian, Laplace, and Uniform distributions. Second, stochastic state-space models are applied to characterize the behaviors of solar radiation and PV power output. A filter-based expectation-maximization and Kalman filtering mechanism is employed to recursively estimate the system parameters and state variables. This enables the system to accurately forecast small as well as large fluctuations of the solar signals. The introduced forecasting models are suitable for real-time tertiary dispatch controllers and optimal power controllers. The PV forecasting models are tested using solar radiation and PV power measurement data collected from a 13.5 kW PV panel installed on the rooftop of our laboratory. The results are compared with standard time series forecasting mechanisms and show a substantial improvement in the forecasting accuracy of the total energy produced.