cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
High cell density fed batch and perfusion processes for stable non‐viral expression of secreted alkaline phosphatase (SEAP) using insect cells: Comparison to a batch Sf‐9‐BEV system

The development of insect cells expressing recombinant proteins in a stable continuous manner is an attractive alternative to the BEV system for recombinant protein production. High cell density fed batch and con- tinuous perfusion processes can be designed to maximize the productivity of stably transformed cells. A cell line (Sf-9SEAP) expressing high levels of the reporter protein SEAP stably was obtained by lipid-mediated transfection of Sf-9 insect cells and further selection and screening. The expression of the Sf-9SEAP cells was compared with the BEVS system. It was observed that, the yield obtained in BEVS was similar to the batch Sf-9SEAP at 8 and 7 IU/mL, respectively. The productivity of this foreign gene product with the stable cells was enhanced by bioprocess intensifica- tion employing the fed-batch and perfusion modes of culture to increase the cell density in culture. The fed batch process yielded a maximum cell density of 28 � 10 6 cells/mL and 12 IU/mL of SEAP. Further improvements in the productivity could be made using the perfusion process, which demonstrated a stable production rate for extended periods of time. The process was maintained for 43 days, with a steady-state cell density of 17-20 � 10 6 cells/mL and 7 IU/mL SEAP. The total yield obtained in the perfusion process (394 IU) was approximately 22 and 8 times higher than that obtained in a batch (17.6 IU) and fed batch (46.1 IU) process, respectively. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2007;97: 332-345. 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Impact of Microcredit Programs on Self-Employment Profits: Do Noncredit Program Aspects Matter?

Microcredit programs provide a two-tiered approach to poverty alleviation: credit for the purchase of capital inputs in order to promote self-employment and noncredit services and incentives. These noncredit aspects may be an important component of the success of microcredit programs. However, because they are costly to deliver and their contribution to the success of the programs is difficult to measure, they may not be properly valued. This paper uses primary data on household participants and nonparticipants in Grameen Bank and two similar microcredit programs to measure the total and noncredit effects of microcredit program participation on productivity. The total effect is measured by estimating a profit equation and the noncredit effect by estimating the profit equation conditional on productive capital. Productive capital and program participation are treated as endogenous variables in the analysis. I find large positive effects of participation and the noncredit aspects of participation on self-em...
Epidemiology of anaphylaxis in Olmsted County: A population-based study

Abstract Background: Awareness of the clinical features of anaphylaxis and its causative triggers is important if recurrent episodes are to be avoided. The incidence of anaphylaxis in the general population is often underreported, and epidemiologic studies are few. Because an accurate profile of anaphylaxis could heighten awareness of this problem, we investigated the epidemiology of anaphylaxis in the general population of Olmsted County, Minn. Objective: The purpose of this study was to describe the epidemiology of anaphylaxis in Olmsted County residents from 1983 through 1987. Methods: This was a retrospective population-based cohort study. The medical records of 1255 Olmsted County residents identified by computer-linked, medical diagnostic indices (the Rochester Epidemiology Study) were reviewed retrospectively to identify residents whose clinical episodes met the criteria for anaphylaxis. We determined the incidence and rate of occurrence of anaphylaxis, rate of recurrence, prevalence of atopy, cause of anaphylaxis, frequency of referral to an allergy specialist, hospital admission rate, and case-fatality rate. Results: There were 133 residents who experienced 154 anaphylactic episodes during the 5-year period: 116 residents had 1 episode of anaphylaxis, 13 residents had 2 episodes, and 4 residents had 3 episodes. The anaphylaxis occurrence rate was 30 per 100,000 person-years (95% confidence interval, 25-35). There were 110 residents who had a first lifetime episode of anaphylaxis (that was medically evaluated) during the years 1983 to 1987. The average annual incidence rate of anaphylaxis was 21 per 100,000 person-years (95% confidence interval, 17-25). Atopy was present in 53% of the cohort, and allergy consultation was obtained in 52%. A suspect allergen was identified in 68% of the cohort, most frequently a food, medication, or insect sting. The hospitalization rate was 7%, and 1 patient died. Conclusion: The incidence of anaphylaxis is less than 1%, and death rarely occurs. People with atopy experience anaphylaxis more frequently than people without atopy. Anaphylaxis frequently is not recognized by patients and physicians. (J Allergy Clin Immunol 1999;104:452-6.)
Selective depletion of Ig-bearing lymphocytes by cyclophosphamide in rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosu guidelines for dosage

Cyclophosphamide was given to 11 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in doses regulated by monitoring effects on small lymphocytes. Total leukocyte counts, the numbers of immunoglobulin-positive and Ig-negative small lymphocytes by immunofluorescence and the proliferative response of lymphocytes to phytohemagglutinin (PHA) were measured. The number of both Ig-positive and Ig-negative small lymphocytes decreased following cyclophosphamide. When dosage was reduced to maintenance levels, the Ig-positive cells remained less than 75% of baseline values, whereas the Ig-negative lymphocytes returned toward the baseline. During this time PHA values were normal or increased. On maintenance therapy, objective evidence of improvement was observed in 10 patients. These studies suggested a selective depletion of B-lymphocytes by cyclophosphamide and that a reduction of other leukocytes is not necessary for a favorable clinical response. Adverse side effects were rare. Direct quantitation of B-lymphocytes may be helpful in regulating clinically effective individual doses of cyclophosphamide in a manner that is relatively safe.
Incidental social learning and viewer race: “All in the family” and “Sanford and son”

The more people watch such programs as the highly‐rated “All in the Family” and “Sanford and Son” with their often strong racial joke overtones, the more viewers tend to agree with the views expressed in those programs. This is explored by Drs. Leckenby (College of Communications at the University of Illinois in Urbana) and Surlin (School of Journalism at the University of Georgia at Athens) who wish to thank the University of Illinois Research Board, the Survey Research Laboratory of the same institution, and the University of Georgia for financial aid and technical support of this project. The students in Surlin's Fall 1974 mass communication research class at Georgia also contributed to the effort.
Differential flow between solar wind protons and alpha particles: First WIND observations

Alpha particle and proton measurements in the solar wind made using the SWE Faraday cup detectors on the WIND spacecraft are reported. Some overall trends observed confirm past observations : the ratios of alpha particle to proton density N α /N P , thermal speed W α /W P , as well as the differential velocity V α -V P (hereafter V αP ) are generally correlated with bulk solar wind flow speed. The detailed WIND measurements enable us to investigate instances when the alpha-proton differences deviate from these overall general trends. Occasionally, difference velocities as large as 80 km/s were seen, with the ratio of |V αP | to the Alfven speed V A near unity, characteristics more typical of observations at solar distances less than I AU. An example is presented where |V α |-|V P | reverses sign while |V αP | stays nearly constant. Comparison of the vector velocities and the magnetic field suggests that the speed reversal is associated with a localized kink in the magnetic field. Finally we show an instance where |V αP | exceeds the observed wave speed for Alfvenic fluctuations (V wave =B 0 ΔV/ΔB) resulting in alpha particle velocity fluctuations that anti-correlate with the wave. Though this phenomenon has been previously reported in high-latitude measurements beyond I AU, it is shown here to also occur at 1 AU in the ecliptic.
Harnessing the power of gene microarrays for the study of brain aging and Alzheimer's disease: Statistical reliability and functional correlation

During normal brain aging, numerous alterations develop in the physiology, biochemistry and structure of neurons and glia. Aging changes occur in most brain regions and, in the hippocampus, have been linked to declining cognitive performance in both humans and animals. Age-related changes in hippocampal regions also may be harbingers of more severe decrements to come from neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, unraveling the mechanisms underlying brain aging, AD and impaired function has been difficult because of the complexity of the networks that drive these aging-related changes. Gene microarray technology allows massively parallel analysis of most genes expressed in a tissue, and therefore is an important new research tool that potentially can provide the investigative power needed to address the complexity of brain aging/neurodegenerative processes. However, along with this new analytic power, microarrays bring several major bioinformatics and resource problems that frequently hinder the optimal application of this technology. In particular, microarray analyses generate extremely large and unwieldy data sets and are subject to high false positive and false negative rates. Concerns also have been raised regarding their accuracy and uniformity. Furthermore, microarray analyses can result in long lists of altered genes, most of which may be difficult to evaluate for functional relevance. These and other problems have led to some skepticism regarding the reliability and functional usefulness of microarray data and to a general view that microarray data should be validated by an independent method. Given recent progress, however, we suggest that the major problem for current microarray research is no longer validity of expression measurements, but rather, the reliability of inferences from the data, an issue more appropriately redressed by statistical approaches than by validation with a separate method. If tested using statistically defined criteria for reliability/significance, microarray data do not appear a priori to require more independent validation than data obtained by any other method. In fact, because of added confidence from co-regulation, they may require less. In this article we also discuss our strategy of statistically correlating individual gene expression with biologically important endpoints designed to address the problem of evaluating functional relevance. We also review how work by ourselves and others with this powerful technology is leading to new insights into the complex processes of brain aging and AD, and to novel, more comprehensive models of aging-related brain change.
Cold intravascular organ perfusion for renal hypothermia during laparoscopic partial nephrectomy.

Purpose: We report initial data on the safety and functional outcomes of renal hypothermia with arterial cold perfusion during partial nephrectomy.Materials and Methods: From June 2007 to June 2009, 31 consecutive patients underwent laparoscopic partial nephrectomy with hypothermia using renal arterial perfusion with cold, lactated Ringer's solution during renal ischemia. Doppler echography was done intraoperatively to evaluate renal perfusion. Complication data were reported prospectively. Median followup was 57 weeks (IQR 28, 83).Results: The lowest recorded renal temperature during ischemia was 14C. Median tumor size was 4.0 cm (IQR 2.7, 6.2). Median estimated blood loss was 150 cc (IQR 100, 275). Median ischemia time was 35 minutes (IQR 26, 41). Doppler echography identified intrarenal arterial blood flow postoperatively in all cases. The median change in the estimated glomerular filtration rate from preoperatively to postoperative day 2 was 4 ml per minute (IQR −29, 19). Two months postoperative in 2...
Model selection and surface merging in reconstruction algorithms

The problem of model selection is relevant to many areas of computer vision. Model selection criteria have been used in the vision literature and many more have been proposed in statistics, but the relative strengths of these criteria have not been analyzed in vision. More importantly, suitable extensions to these criteria must be made to solve problems unique to computer vision. Using the problem of surface reconstruction as our context, we analyze existing criteria using simulations and sensor data, introduce new criteria from statistics, develop novel criteria capable of handling unknown error distributions and outliers, and extend model selection criteria to apply to the surface merging problem. The new surface merging rules improve upon previous results, and work well even at small step heights (h=3/spl sigma/) and crease discontinuities. Our results show that a Bayesian criteria and its bootstrapped variant perform the best, although for time-sensitive applications, a variant of the Akaike criterion may be a better choice. Unfortunately, none of the criteria work reliably for small region sizes, implying that model selection and surface merging should be avoided unless the region size is sufficiently large.
Recent Literature on Lichens—185*

AA, A. R. & J. A. SJASTAD. 2000. Schmidt hammer age evaluation of the moraine sequence in front of Boyabreen, western Norway. Norsk Geologisk Tidsskrift 80: 27–32. 5 fig. 2 tab. [Includes lichenometric data using Rhizocarpon geographicum.] AARKROG, A., H. DAHLGAARD & S. P. NIELSEN. 2000. Environmental radioactive contamination in Greenland: a 35 years retrospect. Science of the Total Environment 245: 233–248. 11 fig. 6 tab. AGUIRRE-HUDSON, B. 2001. [Review] F. S. Dobson. Lichens. An Illustrated Guide to the British and Irish Species, Edn. 4. 431 pp. Richmond Publishing, Slough, UK. 2000 (2001). Bibliography of Systematic Mycology 11: xxxii–xxxiii. AGUIRRE-HUDSON, B. 2001. [Review] G. Kantvilas & S. J. Jarman. Lichens of Rainforest in Tasmania and SouthEastern Australia. Flora of Australia Suppl. Series 9: 1–212. 1999. Bibliography of Systematic Mycology 11: xxxiii–xxxiv. ALSTRUP, V. & E. S. HANSEN. 2001. New lichens and lichenicolous fungi from Greenland. Graphis Scripta 12: 41–50. 12 fig. [New: Servitia M. S. Christ. & Alstrup gen. nov.,S. inconspicuum (Lynge) M. S. Christ. & Alstrup, Arthonia aspiciliaesp. nov. (on Aspicilia elevata), Arthonia glacialissp. nov. (on Rhizoplaca melanophthalma), Merismatium thamnoliicolumsp. nov. (on Thamnolia vermicularis), Niesslia kununguakiisp. nov. (on dead Arthrorhaphis alpina), Phaeopyxis muscigenaesp. nov. (on Physconia muscigena), Phaeospora verrucariaesp. nov. (on Verrucaria placynthiae), Rhizocarpon cleptophilumsp. nov. (on Acarospora picea), Sagiolechia parasiticasp. nov. (on Hymenelia cyanocarpa), Skyttea arenicolasp. nov. (apparently a saprophyte, but associated with various lichens), Taeniolella ionaspisicolasp. nov. (on Ionaspis odora), Verrucaria placynthiaesp. nov. (on Placynthium nigrum).] ALVES, R. J. V. & J. KOLBEK. 1993. Penumbral rock communities in campo rupestre sites in Brazil. Journal of Vegetation Science 4: 357–366. 3 fig. 1 tab. 2 append. [Includes a few lichens, mostly undetermined.] ALVES, R. J. V. & J. KOLBEK. 2000. Primary succession on quartzite cliffs in Minas Gerais, Brazil. Biologia [Bratislava] 55: 69–83. 2 fig. 2 photo. 2 tab. [Lichens only briefly considered.] ANGOLD, P. G. 1997. The impact of a road upon adjacent heathland vegetation: effects on plant species composition. Journal of Applied Ecology 34: 409–417. 1 fig. 6 tab. ARUP, U. & M. GRUBE. 2000. Is Rhizoplaca (Lecanorales, lichenized Ascomycota) a monophyletic genus? Ca-
Associative Storage and Retrieval of Digital Information in Networks of Adaptive “Neurons”

An adaptive logical element, called the ADALINE “neuron,” which consists of a set of variable weights, a threshold, and adaptation machinery for automatically adjusting its weights, has been described previously.* Proofs of convergence of its learning processes and derivations of learning rates have been made. It has been demonstrated analytically and empirically that a single ADALINE can be “trained” to recognize geometric patterns, perform logical functions, and store digital information.
Strategies for the Conversion of Lignin to High-Value Polymeric Materials: Review and Perspective

The majority of commodity plastics and materials are derived from petroleum-based chemicals, illustrating the strong dependence on products derived from non-renewable energy sources. As the most accessible, renewable form of carbon (in comparison to CO2), lignocellulosic biomass (defined as organic matter available on a renewable basis) has been acknowledged as the most logical carbon-based feedstock for a variety of materials such as biofuels and chemicals. This Review focuses on methods developed to synthesize polymers derived from lignin, monolignols, and lignin-derived chemicals. Major topics include the structure and processing of lignocellulosic biomass to lignin, polymers utilizing lignin as a macromonomer, synthesis of monomers and polymers from monolignols, and polymers from lignin-derived chemicals, such as vanillin.
Should social psychologists create a disciplinary affirmative action program for political conservatives

Freely staying on the move between alternative points of view is the best antidote to dogmatism. Robert Merton's ideals for an epistemic community are sufficient to correct pseudo-empirical studies designed to confirm beliefs that liberals (or conservatives) think deserve to be true. Institutionalizing the self-proclaimed political identities of social psychologists may make things worse.
Genome Sequences of Mycobacteriophages AlanGrant, Baee, Corofin, OrangeOswald, and Vincenzo, New Members of Cluster B

ABSTRACT AlanGrant, Baee, Corofin, OrangeOswald, and Vincenzo are newly isolated phages of Mycobacterium smegmatis mc2155 discovered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA. All five phages share nucleotide similarity with cluster B mycobacteriophages but span considerable diversity with Corofin and OrangeOswald in subcluster B3, AlanGrant and Vincenzo in subcluster B4, and Baee in subcluster B5.
Mist deposition of micron-thick lead zirconate titanate films

A majority of the work published on liquid source misted chemical deposition (LSMCD) has focused on the fabrication of thin ferroelectric films for random access memory (RAM) applications. However, the ability of LSMCD to combine the characteristically good stoichiometry control of a chemical solution deposition process with good film conformality, makes this a desirable technique for other applications, including microactuators and integrated passive components. For these applications, though, LSMCD is limited by its low throughput. This paper describes the feasibility of depositing micron-thick lead zirconate titanate (PZT) films using the LSMCD tool. PZT films of 52/48 composition were deposited on both platinized silicon and platinized alumina substrates. The chamber temperature and the delivery geometry of the LSMCD tool were identified as limiting factors in the rate at which micron-thick samples can be prepared. By switching to a focused nozzle delivery geometry and increasing the chamber temperature from room temperature to 60°C, the total process time for 1 μm thick films can be reduced from 480 min to 90 min. Polarization hysteresis measurements indicated a 75% higher remanent polarization for PZT films deposited on platinized alumina substrates (35 μC/cm 2 ) compared to those deposed on platinized silicon substrates (20 μC/cm 2 ). The polarization loop for the silicon substrate sample was also tilted. These observations are evidence of higher tensile stresses in the PZT films deposited on silicon substrates due to a larger mismatch in the thermal expansion coefficients of the film and the substrate.
Susceptibility to Plasmodium yoelii Preerythrocytic Infection in BALB/c Substrains Is Determined at the Point of Hepatocyte Invasion

ABSTRACT After transmission by Anopheles mosquitoes, Plasmodium sporozoites travel to the liver, infect hepatocytes, and rapidly develop as intrahepatocytic liver stages (LS). Rodent models of malaria exhibit large differences in the magnitude of liver infection, both between parasite species and between strains of mice. This has been mainly attributed to differences in innate immune responses and parasite infectivity. Here, we report that BALB/cByJ mice are more susceptible to Plasmodium yoelii preerythrocytic infection than BALB/cJ mice. This difference occurs at the level of early hepatocyte infection, but expression levels of reported host factors that are involved in infection do not correlate with susceptibility. Interestingly, BALB/cByJ hepatocytes are more frequently polyploid; thus, their susceptibility converges on the previously observed preference of sporozoites to infect polyploid hepatocytes. Gene expression analysis demonstrates hepatocyte-specific differences in mRNA abundance for numerous genes between BALB/cByJ and BALB/cJ mice, some of which encode hepatocyte surface molecules. These data suggest that a yet-unknown receptor for sporozoite infection, present at elevated levels on BALB/cByJ hepatocytes and also polyploid hepatocytes, might facilitate Plasmodium liver infection.
Preferences of the fire ants Solenopsis invicta and S. geminata (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) for amino acid and sugar components of extrafloral nectars

Extrafloral nectar, a solution of both sugars and amino acids that is produced by plants on stems and leaves, attracts ants that often protect the plants from potential herbivores. To understand better the ecological significance of variability among plants in nectar chemistry, the effectiveness of ant attraction by different extrafloral nectars was compared for nectar mimics that varied in either amino acid or sugar content. Workers of the fire ants Solenopsis invicta Buren and S. geminata (F.) were fed on artificial nectaries containing mimics of pre- and postdefoliation nectars of Impatiens sultani , which differed in amino acid content. Workers of the two fire ant species also fed from artificial nectaries containing mimics of Passiflora ambigua , P. talamancensis , and P. quadrangularis , which varied in sugar composition. S. geminata workers preferred the more amino acid-rich postdefoliation mimic over the predefoliation mimic. S. invicta did not discriminate between the two nectars, demonstrating that richer amino acid solutions are not more attractive to all ants. In the sugar experiments, both species of ants preferred the nectar of P. ambigua over those of the other two Passiflora species. The nectar of P. ambigua had the lowest total sugar concentration and the lowest calorie content, indicating that ants do not necessarily maximize sugar energy intake as they forage. The behavior of S. geminata and S. invicta shows that both amino acid and sugar content can affect ant recruitment to plants and that differences in levels of recruitment cannot be predicted accurately based on simple assumptions of nutrient maximization or energy content.
Variations in the Photoluminescence Intensity of Chemically and Anodically Etched Silicon Films

We are studying the effects of etch conditions on the surface morphology, chemistry, and luminescent properties of porous silicon (PS) films. Luminescent silicon films are produced by chemical etching using solutions of HNO 3 in HF and by anodic etching using aqueous HF electrolytes. Films produced by both methods are analyzed and compared using photoluminescence (PL), vibrational, and X-ray photoelectron (XPS) spectroscopies. The initial characterization of PS is performed immediately following the etching process, resulting in oxide-free films (as confirmed by XPS). In chemically etched PS films, the luminescent intensity decreases as the vol. % HNO 3 in etch solution increases. Spectral features evolve in the PL spectrum of chemically etched films as the result of aging under ambient conditions and when the films are cooled under illumination. Moreover, we have also found that increased electrolyte convection results in a decrease in photoluminescence intensity of PS films formed anodically. The role of electrolyte flow in modifying the luminescent properties of PS is being evaluated in an etch cell with well-characterized hydrodynamics.
Polarization-insensitive coherent heterodyne receiver based on a dual-IF detection scheme

There is much interest in the area of coherent optical fiber communications.1 One problem encountered In coherent systems is that of polarization-induced signal fading which can occur when conventional low-birefringence fibers are used as the communications link. Apart from using polarization-preserving fiber in such systems to maintain the signal light in a fixed state of polarization (SOP), polarization-induced signal fading can be overcome using active SOP stabilization techniques applied to the received light (or SOP compensation applied to the LO light), using a number of mechanical, electrooptic, or magnetooptic SOP transformers,2 or adopting a form of polarization diversity detection.3,4
Stimulated scattering does not have a steady state

Much analysis and modeling of stimulated Brillouin and Raman scattering are done using a steady-state approximation. Because these processes are driven by rapidly fluctuating (thermal or quantum) noise and the noiseless equations have no time-independent solution with nonvanishing Stokes wave amplitude, there is no steady state. Although many investigators1-3 have clearly understood some aspects of this, the existence of large intensity fluctuations is not widely appreciated.
A Child with Headache and Seizures

This case illustrates the complex relationship between epilepsy and migraine. Patients with epilepsy can get headaches, sometimes with migrainous features, either before or after a seizure. Additionally, patients with epilepsy are more likely to have migraines, independent of their seizure frequency.
New experimental models of the blood-brain barrier for CNS drug discovery.

ABSTRACTIntroduction: The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a dynamic biological interface which actively controls the passage of substances between the blood and the central nervous system (CNS). From a biological and functional standpoint, the BBB plays a crucial role in maintaining brain homeostasis inasmuch that deterioration of BBB functions are prodromal to many CNS disorders. Conversely, the BBB hinders the delivery of drugs targeting the brain to treat a variety of neurological diseases.Area covered: This article reviews recent technological improvements and innovation in the field of BBB modeling including static and dynamic cell-based platforms, microfluidic systems and the use of stem cells and 3D printing technologies. Additionally, the authors laid out a roadmap for the integration of microfluidics and stem cell biology as a holistic approach for the development of novel in vitro BBB platforms.Expert opinion: Development of effective CNS drugs has been hindered by the lack of reliable strategies t...
A Kamyr Continuous Digester Model for Identification and Controller Design

Abstract Continuous Kamyr digesters play a pivotal role in the uniformity of product quality in pulp and paper mills. Chemical conversions and separations in the digester are controlled by regulating the Kappa number, a measure of residual lignin in cooked chips. A simple dynamic process model is developed in order to facilitate off-line controller design, model reduction and identification efforts for this important unit operation. Comparisons with a detailed fundamental model show that the simple model captures the unique characteristics of the complex model and can be justified for use as a reference or benchmark to distinguish alternative control approaches.
Inhibiting effects of fructanase on competence-stimulating peptide-dependent quorum sensing system in Streptococcus mutans

Streptococcus mutans produces glucosyltransferases encoded by the gtfB and gtfC genes, which synthesize insoluble glucan, and both insoluble and soluble glucans by conversion of sucrose, and are known as principal agents to provide strong biofilm formation and demineralization on tooth surfaces. S. mutans possess a Com-dependent quorum sensing (QS) system, which is important for survival in severe conditions. The QS system is stimulated by the interaction between ComD {Receptor to competence-stimulating peptide (CSP)} encoded by the comD and CSP encoded by the comC, and importantly associated with bacteriocin production and genetic competence. Previously, we found enzyme fructanase (FruA) as a new inhibitor for the glucan-dependent biofilm formation. In the present study, inhibiting effects by FruA on glucan-independent biofilm formation of S. mutans UA159, UA159.gtfB-, UA159.gtfC-, and UA159.gtfBC- were observed in sucrose and no sucrose sugars-supplemented conditions using the plate assay. The reduction of UA159.comC- and UA159.comD- biofilm formation were also observed as compared with UA159 in same conditions. These results suggested that inhibitions of glucan-independent and Com-dependent biofilm formation were involved in the inhibiting mechanism by FruA. To more thoroughly investigate effects by FruA on the QS system, we examined on CSP-stimulated and Com-dependent bacteriocin production and genetic transformation. FruA inhibited bacteriocin production in collaboration with CSP and genetic transformation in bacterial cell conditions treated with FruA. Our findings show that FruA has multiple effects that inhibit survival functions of S. mutans, including biofilm formation and CSP-dependent QS responses, indicating its potential use as an agent for prevention of dental caries.
Multi-pursuer pursuit-evasion games under parameters uncertainty: A Monte Carlo approach

The traditional pursuit-evasion game considers a situation where one or more pursuers try to catch an evader, while the evader is trying to escape. Instead of moving entities, a more general scope of the pursuit-evasion game could also consider systems of systems. In a system consisting of many subsystems, when one subsystem decides to dissent and operate in a manner that is inconsistent with the others, a game situation similar to the pursuit-evasion game occurs. The dissenting subsystem can be viewed as an evader and the remaining conforming subsystems can be viewed as pursuers who oppose and try to prevent the dissention from succeeding. This is a more general system of systems, approach to the pursuit-evasion problem where the players are now subsystems of a system rather than moving entities. Clearly, any control strategy by any one of the subsystems to separate needs to be assessed against a variety of options that the remaining subsystems may use. In this paper, we consider a game where the pursuer subsystems consider three possible strategies: (1) act independently as Nash players, (2) act optimally as a team, and (3) act individually as greedy pursuers. The evader subsystem, on the other hand, will consider strategies against all possible strategies by the pursuer subsystems. We assume that no subsystem knows which strategies the other subsystems are implementing and none of the subsystems has information about any of the parameters in the objective functions of the other subsystems. We deal with these uncertainties by first developing the Nash strategies for each of the resulting games for all possible options available to both sides. Given the prevailing parameter uncertainty in developing the strategies, we perform a Monte Carlo analysis to determine probabilities of success (or failure) for each of the strategies considered by each side. We illustrate the results using two simulation scenarios of a pursuit-evasion example consisting of three pursuers moving on a plane and chasing one evader.
Improved Outcomes in Management of Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome Associated With Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia: an Algorithmic Approach

Hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) is the second most common congenital heart disease associated with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). The reported survival rate of neonates with CDH and HLHS is only 1%-5%. We review our experience with CDH and HLHS and compare our outcomes with published literature. Retrospective review of all neonates with CDH and HLHS at our institution over a 10-year period was performed. The morphology of cardiac and diaphragm defects, clinical course, treatment strategies, and outcomes were reviewed, and an algorithmic approach was proposed. Five patients with CDH and HLHS were treated between 2006 and 2016. All had mitral stenosis with aortic stenosis. Four patients had a left-sided Bochdalek diaphragmatic hernia and 1 patient had a large bilateral Morgagni hernia. Two (2/4) of the Bochdalek hernias were associated with significant pulmonary hypoplasia and required patch closure of the CDH; both were palliated with percutaneous ductal stents and both died. Three patients underwent primary Norwood operation followed by repair of less severe CDH defect. All 3 patients are currently well and have survived bidirectional Glenn anastomosis; one patient is well after Fontan operation. Successful palliation of neonates with HLHS and associated CDH is possible in the current era. Outcome is determined primarily by the severity of the CDH and the degree of associated pulmonary hypoplasia. An algorithmic team approach is helpful in management of this difficult group of patients.
Elevated temperatures suppress inducible defenses and alter shell shape of intertidal mussel

As ocean temperatures continue to rise due to climate change, many questions remain on how coastal species will cope with a changing environment. The effects of increased temperatures on bivalves has been well examined through single-species studies, showing reductions in tissue mass, shell growth, oxygen uptake, feeding rates, and survival. However, the consequences of these effects on predator–prey interactions remain poorly understood. We examined how increased temperatures (30, 32, 34 °C) and the presence of water-borne predation cues from blue crabs (Callinectes sapidus) affected the morphology and growth rate of southern ribbed mussels (Geukensia granosissima), as well as their handling times when attacked by predatory crabs. Although southern ribbed mussels were able to survive under chronic heat stress, exposure to higher temperatures resulted in more elongated shell shapes. Growth rates in mussel wet weight were higher for mussels reared in the presence of a predator than in the predator-free control, but only in the low-temperature treatment. Likewise, handling times were greater for crabs eating mussels grown in the presence of a predator, but the effect was lost at the mid- and high-temperature treatments. These findings suggest that predation-induced defenses were suppressed when prey were under chronic thermal stress, which could make mussels more vulnerable to predation. The presence of predation cues in natural environments should be taken in consideration when estimating or predicting the effects of climate change on organisms.
Sobolev Inequalities in Familiar and Unfamiliar Settings

The classical Sobolev inequalities play a key role in analysis in Euclidean spaces and in the study of solutions of partial differential equations. In fact, they are extremely flexible tools and are useful in many different settings. This paper gives a glimpse of assortments of such applications in a variety of contexts.
Pathways of Continuity and Change: Maasai Livelihoods in Amboseli, Kajiado District, Kenya

The Greater Amboseli Ecosystem (GAE) extends ~8,400 km 2 north, east and west from the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, and includes the Amboseli basin, swamp wetlands along the base of the mountain, and neighbouring rangelands which act as seasonal dispersal areas for resident herbivore populations (Western, 1973) . The ecological centre of this system is Amboseli National Park (NP); however, land use centers on the distinctive combination of transhumant pastoralism and wildlife habitat that has typically characterized a majority of East Africa’s rangelands. Wildlife corridors, particularly for the area’s substantial elephant populations, cross the Kenya–Tanzania border and link Amboseli ecologically with the Longido region to the south. This ecosystem is unique in many ways. It is a cultural and economic core area for Maasai pastoralism in southern Kenya, and the landscape was traditionally characterized by both high wildlife diversity and abundance (Western, 2001) . The combination of these human–ecological characteristics has made Amboseli NP one of Kenya’s most visited tourist destinations. However, current literature on pastoral environments globally (Galaty and Johnson, 1990 ; Blench, 2001) and in East Africa in particular (Desta and Coppock, 2004 ; Fratkin and Mearns, 2003) , emphasizes that the challenges facing pastoral ecosystems are daunting. The Amboseli system is typical in this, as research points out that local pastoralists there are becoming poorer overall (Rutten, 1992 ; Campbell, 1999) , wildlife corridors are threatened (Noe, 2003 ; Okello, 2005) and some wildlife populations are in decline (Worden et al., 2003 ; Western and Nightingale, 2003) . Current challenges to Maasai pastoral livelihoods include an intensified recent cycle of drought in Eastern Africa (FEWS NET et al., 2005) , changes in land tenure
Uranium Precipitation in Black Sea Sediments

Previous studies have shown that organic-rich sediments of anoxic marine basins like the Black Sea are enriched in uranium, and that the seawater itself is the source of the uranium. An earlier study of uranium in the water column of the Black Sea showed that the processes of uranium precipitation are not occurring in the water column, from which it was inferred that the precipitation process occurs in the sediments. Concentrations of U in sediments and associated pore waters were measured at three sites in the Black Sea: an abyssal plain site in the central eastern basin, and two sites on the shelf along a transect out from the Bay of Sinop: one shallow site underlying oxygenated bottom waters and one deeper site underlying sulfidic bottom waters. Similar pore water uranium profiles were found at all three sites, indicating that similar processes of U precipitation are occurring at all of these sites. Authigenic U contents of the sediments are highest in the abyssal sediments, lowest in sediments from the outer shelf, and intermediate at the inner shelf site. Chemically reducing conditions of the sediments themselves, rather than the condition of the bottom waters or the composition of the sediments, lead to precipitation of uranium. The concentration of authigenic uranium that builds up in the sediments is inversely related to sediment accumulation rate.
Pneumatic retinopexy. A two-step outpatient operation without conjunctival incision

1,000 consecutive patients operated for retinal detachment were studied prospectively to determine the incidence of complications. Two parts of the operation were responsible for most of the vision-threatening complications: subretinal fluid drainage and the scleral buckle. In an attempt to reduce the complications of retinal detachment surgery, we have utilized a simplified procedure of transconjunctival cryotherapy and intravitreal gas injection with postoperative positioning. This study was limited to detachments with one or more breaks within one clock hour located within the superior eight clock hours of the fundus without signs of proliferative vitreoretinopathy. In a series of 20 consecutive patients, retinal reattachment was initially achieved in all cases. There were two recurrences that were reattached with scleral buckling. The final cure rate for the single pneumatic procedure, with six months follow-up, was 90%. No major complications were observed. This preliminary report suggests that pneumatic retinopexy has the advantages of reduced tissue trauma, no hospitalization, minimal complications, and reduced expense. The major disadvantage is the need for postoperative positioning for five days.
Electrophysiological Characterization of the Mouse Heart Using Voltage-Sensitive Dyes

The recent explosion of interest in the molecular basis of cardiac arrhythmias was spawned by discoveries of mutations of sarcolemmal ion channels which underlie the Long QT Syndrome in humans.1-4For instance, it is now recognized that a mutation in the delayed rectifier potassium channel (HERG) can produce loss of function resulting in prolongation of cellular repolarization and the QT interval, and can potentially explain the electrophysiological basis for arrhythmias under such circumstances. Genetic disorders involving mutations in ion channels and intracellular calcium handling proteins may underlie a number of cardiac arrhythmias such as those seen in the Brugada Syndrome5’6catecholaminergic ventricular tachycardia, and some forms of atrial fibrillation.8Importantly, investigators have evaluated the molecular basis for cardiac arrhythmias by selectively underexpressing sarcolemmal currents9-11connexin channels which transmit electrical activity between cells12-14or sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) calcium handling proteins15using genetically engineered intact mouse hearts.
Economics of selection of flood mitigation measures

An overview of the traditional planning approach of flood control alternative formulation, evaluation, and selection is presented. Alternative selection approaches are explored including cost-effectiveness, benefit-cost analysis, and multicriteria and multiobjective analysis. The goal in selecting from among alternatives is to reduce the adverse effects of flooding. This implies that in the selection of flood mitigation measures, one needs to recognize that controlling people is an alternative to controlling water.
Liquid Moisture Redistribution: Hydrologic Simulation and Spatial Variability

Liquid moisture redistribution processes begin when the infiltration for a rainfall or irrigation period comes to an end. Redistribution processes include the downward migration of soil moisture to eventually recharge the water table and the loss of water to the atmosphere through evapotranspiration. This paper reviews the application of relatively simple, physically based profile models for simulation of redistribution. Continuity and Darcy’s law are applied to the rectangular and kinematic profiles to model the change in water content and flux as a function of depth and time. Both initial conditions and evaporation are included, along with the use of probabilistic methods for addressing questions of spatial variability.
QRS morphology shift following catheter ablation of idiopathic outflow tract ventricular arrhythmias: Prevalence, mapping features, and ablation outcomes

Introduction In patients with monomorphic idiopathic outflow tract ventricular arrhythmias (OT-VAs), catheter ablation (CA) at the earliest activation site can result in a shift in QRS morphology indicating a change in the activation patterns. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence, mapping features, and ablation outcomes of OT-VAs displaying a QRS morphology shift following CA. Methods and results We retrospectively analyzed 446 patients with monomorphic OT-VAs. A QRS morphology shift following CA was observed in 17 (4%) patients. Initially, the earliest activation site was within the right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) in one (6%) patient, the left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) in 10 (59%) patients (left coronary cusp/right coronary cusp junction in seven patients and LVOT endocardium in three patients), and within the distal coronary venous system in six (35%) patients. The VA was suppressed in all 17 patients, but VA recurrence with a different QRS morphology was observed after a waiting period. The recurrent VA was remapped in all patients and was eliminated targeting the new earliest site in 15 (88%) cases. In 11 of 15 successful cases, the ablation site for the recurrent VA shifted to an anatomical structure distinct from but adjacent to the initial site. In the remaining four patients, the recurrent VA was eliminated within the same anatomical structure. Conclusions In patients with idiopathic OT-VAs, a QRS morphology shift following CA can be observed in 4% of the cases. In these cases, detailed remapping is necessary since the successful ablation site for the VAs with altered QRS morphology shifts to different anatomical structures in most patients.
Structural Equation Modeling

This article covers both the historical and modern developments in structural equation modeling. The material is divided into what can be referred to as the ‘first generation’ and the ‘second generation’ of structural equation modeling. Topics discussed under the first generation include the history of structural equation modeling estimation, testing, and assessment of assumptions. Topics covered in the second generation include multilevel structural equation modeling and latent variable growth curve modeling.
The moderating role of cultural background in temporal framing: focusing on climate change awareness advertising

Applying the framework of Construal Level Theory (CLT), this study tested the effects of an environmental ad describing the distant-future (i.e. end of the twenty-first century) vs. near-future (i....
Deontology with Selections from Kant’s Groundwork of the Metaphysics of Morals

Deontology is the second of the so-called realistic, naturalistic schools of ethical theory. The foundational approach is to emphasize duty to perform or not to perform a certain sort of action. The action in question will be of a certain character and that character can be examined to see whether a prohibition or an obligation is involved. In the first case one is enjoined from committing the action. In the second case a positive duty to act is created and must be carried out ceteris paribus.
Assessing the Integration of Parallel and Distributed Computing in Early Undergraduate Computer Science Curriculum using Unplugged Activities

Due to the pervasive presence of parallel and distributed computing (PDC) in most of the application domains, the need for PDC skills in computing professionals is necessary. This has inspired much interest in including PDC topics in existing computer science (CS) undergraduate curriculum, as evidenced in the ACM/IEEE joint curriculum recommendations. We address this gap by developing new active learning style PDC activities. The application and evaluation of the unplugged activities are described in this paper. The activities highlight key benefits of parallel computing, and the appropriate application of important PDC concepts. An assessment of student engagement has been utilized to measure the effectiveness of our active learning PDC modules. We determine whether the engagement differs by gender, age, and class standing (freshman, sophomore, junior, senior). Results indicated there were slight differences with respect to age and class standing. This research contributes to helping other practitioners in the CS community by providing PDC lesson modules to be integrated into their existing courses. The developed activities and the related lesson plans are intended to provide easier learning of the fundamental PDC concepts in an early undergraduate CS curriculum.