cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Shifts in Circulating Concentrations of Glucose in Domesticated Mammals: Is There a Consistent Adaptation to Domestication?

There have been marked changes in amylase gene number during human evolution resulting in shifts in carbohydrate metabolism. This has been related to utilization of starch. Similarly, there are changes in enzymes related to carbohydrate metabolism in dogs. Again, this has been linked to improving starch utilization following domestication. It was questioned as circulating concentrations of glucose is a good indicator of putative differences in carbohydrate metabolism across domesticated animals. Domesticated bovids had lower (p < 0.001) circulating concentrations of glucose than wild species in their respective subfamilies. Circulating concentrations of glucose were consistently lower (p < 0.001) in domesticated animals compared to either closely related wild species or the mean for wild species in their subfamilies (or families where there is insufficient data available). It is suggested that shift to lower circulating concentrations of glucose in domesticated animals is related to greater starch intake following domestication in a manner akin to the shifts in carbohydrate metabolism and amylase gene number in human evolution.
Angular light scattering studies using low-coherence interferometry

A modified Michelson interferometer is used to measure path- length resolved angular distributions of light backscattered by turbid media. The path length resolution is obtained by exploiting the coherence properties of a broadband source. The angular distribution is mapped out using a simple optical system to scan the angle at which the reference field intersects the detector plane. Angular scattering distributions can be compared to Mie theory to determine the size and refractive index of spherical scatterers. Initial studies utilizing this system demonstrate the potential of low coherence interferometry for obtaining structural information using angular distributions.
Reductive release of ferritin iron: A kinetic assay

Ferritin iron release, a process of considerable interest in biology and medicine, occurs most readily in the presence of reducing agents. Here is described a kinetic assay for measuring the rate of ferritin iron removal promoted by various reductants. The new procedure uses ferrozine as a chromophoric, high-affinity chelator for the product, Fe(II). The initial rate of iron release is quantified by continuous spectrophotometric measurement of the Fe(ferrozine)32+ complex which absorbs maximally at 562 nm. The initial rate of iron mobilization is dependent on reductant concentration, but not on the concentration of the chelating agent, ferrozine. Sauturation kinetics are observed for all reductants, including dihydroxyfumarate, cysteine, caffeic acid, ascorbate, and glutathione. Superoxide dismutase greatly inhibits ferritin iron release by ascorbate, but has little or no effect on the reducing action of dihydroxyfumarate, cysteine, caffeic acid, or glutathione. Ferritin iron removal by dihydroxyfumarate was inhibited by various metal ions. This new assay may be used for rapid screening of test compounds for treatment of iron overload and for investigation of the mechanistic aspects of ferritin iron reduction.
Coal: A Human History

The fascinating, often surprising story of how a simple black rock has altered the course of history. . Prized as "the best stone in Britain" by Roman invaders who carved jewelry out of it, coal has transformed societies, powered navies, fueled economies, and expanded frontiers. It made China a twelfth-century superpower, inspired the writing of the Communist Manifesto, and helped the northern states win the American Civil War. Yet the mundane mineral that built our global economy -and even today powers our electrical plants-has also caused death, disease, and environmental destruction. As early as 1306, King Edward I tried to ban coal (unsuccessfully) because its smoke became so obnoxious. Its recent identification as a primary cause of global warming has made it a cause clbre of a new kind. In this remarkable book, Barbara Freese takes us on a rich historical journey that begins three hundred million years ago and spans the globe. From the "Great Stinking Fogs" of London to the rat-infested coal mines of Pennsylvania, from the impoverished slums of Manchester to the toxic city streets of Beijing, Coal is a captivating narrative about an ordinary substance that has done extraordinary things-a simple black rock that could well determine our fate as a species.
Evolutionary Origin of a Secondary Structure: π-Helices as Cryptic but Widespread Insertional Variations of α-Helices That Enhance Protein Functionality

Formally annotated π-helices are rare in protein structures but have been correlated with functional sites. Here, we analyze protein structures to show that π-helices are the same as structures known as α-bulges, α-aneurisms, π-bulges, and looping outs, and are evolutionarily derived by the insertion of a single residue into an α-helix. This newly discovered evolutionary origin explains both why π-helices are cryptic, being rarely annotated despite occurring in 15% of known proteins, and why they tend to be associated with function. An analysis of π-helices in the diverse ferritin-like superfamily illustrates their tendency to be conserved in protein families and identifies a putative π-helix-containing primordial precursor, a "missing link" intermediary form of the ribonucleotide reductase family, vestigial π-helices, and a novel function for π-helices that we term a "peristaltic-like shift." This new understanding of π-helices paves the way for this generally overlooked motif to become a noteworthy feature that will aid in tracing the evolution of many protein families, guide investigations of protein and π-helix functionality, and contribute additional tools to the protein engineering toolkit.
Barriers to Citizen Engagement in Developing Countries

Abstract Developing countries often face distinct and formidable challenges in their efforts to build citizen engagement and democratic governance processes. In this article, we examine these challenges and consider how they relate to international efforts to foster democratic governance in developing countries. We consider the impact on developing nations of external incentives, the absence of democratic culture and civil society, profound poverty, time pressures and demands for immediate results, and the lack of an institutional infrastructure. We find that existing international aid programs may, in some instances, actually work to thwart citizen engagement efforts. We conclude by suggesting how a realistic recognition of the barriers to citizen engagement in developing countries can inform international efforts to foster democratic governance.
Deoxyribonucleoside-modified squaraines as near-IR viscosity sensors

Deoxyribonucleoside-modified squaraines were synthesized by Sonogashira coupling reactions using an unsymmetrical, terminal alkynylated benzothiazolium squaraine dye. These non-natural nucleosides exhibited fluorescent ‘turn-on’ properties in viscous conditions with an enhancement of >300-fold. The viscosity-dependent fluorescence enhancement was attributed to a combination of hampering both molecular aggregation and intramolecular bond rotation of the squaraine probe. Fluorescence microscopy allowed visualization of highly viscous regions during various stages of cellular mitosis.
Sober Housing and Motivational Interviewing: The Treatment Access Project

This paper describes an innovative program that provides rental subsidies for sober housing and supportive services to persons in early recovery who are homeless and have substance use disorders. Preliminary data point to the success of this program in enhancing recovery and exiting from homelessness. In supporting sober house placements, the Treatment Access Project creates a bridge that supports these individuals in their transition from clinical treatment services to the community. Integration with natural community supports can help to build self-efficacy, which can enhance the likelihood that this population will obtain and maintain abstinence, gainful employment, and permanent housing.
Hydroxide ion flux and pH-gradient driven ester hydrolysis in polymer vesicle reactors

In this article, we measured the hydroxide ion flux across poly(ethylene oxide-b-butadiene) (PEO-PBD) membranes, and characterized the magnitude of established pH gradients. In terms of permeability, PEO-PBD vesicles (polymersomes) are suitable polymeric analogues of lipid vesicles, with comparable permeabilities that can be tuned by varying the molecular weight (i.e. membrane thickness) of the polymer amphiphiles. PEO-PBD dispersions were found to be capable of maintaining gradients of up to 6 pH units for several weeks and their utility for partitioning acid-ionisable species inside polymer vesicles was demonstrated. Furthermore, pH gradients across vesicle membranes can be used to drive spatially-confined chemical reactions, and these gradients were used to facilitate the reaction of a fluorogenic compound, fluorescein diacetate, inside the high pH environment confined to the polymersome interior. In this sense, pH-gradient vesicles can act as artificial lysosomes, facilitating the collection and digestion of materials that can be hydrolysed in alkaline environments.
A Cultural Computing Approach to Interactive Narrative: The Case of the Living Liberia Fabric

This position paper presents an approach to computational narrative based in cognitive linguistics and sociolinguistics accounts of conceptual blending, metaphor, and narrative, multimedia semantics, human-centered interface design, and digital media art practice. In particular, as a case study, we describe the Living Liberia Fabric, an AI-based interactive narrative system developed in affiliation with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) of Liberia to memorialize a fourteen-year civil war. The Living Liberia Fabric project is led by Fox Harrell and executed in the Imagination, Computation, and Expression (ICE) Laboratory at Georgia Tech. The system exemplifies a cultural computing approach (grounding computing practices in a wider range of specific cultural traditions and values than those that are privileged in computer science). (11, 13)
Antioxidants and xanthophyll cycle-dependent energy dissipation in Cucurbita pepo L. and Vinca major L. upon a sudden increase in growth PPFD in the field

Portions of shade-acclimated shoots of Cucurbita pepo L. (pumpkin) and Vinca major L. were rapidly transferred to full sunlight exposure and chlorophyll fluorescence emission, pigment composition, antioxidant enzyme activities, ascorbate contents, and the content of thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) were measured at regular intervals for 17 d. The most notable response of leaf pigment composition was a pronounced increase in the pool size of xanthophyll cycle carotenoids that occurred over a period of 4 d (pumpkin) or 11-18 d (V. major). On day 1 after the transfer midday efficiencies of open PSII units decreased to levels similar to or below those observed in full sun-acclimated leaves. Efficiencies of open PSII units were inversely correlated with xanthophyll cycle conversion states in both species on all dates of sampling. A rapid increase in thermal energy dissipation on day 1 may thus have contributed to the absence of either an increase in the content of TBARS (a measure of lipid damage) or pronounced depressions in predawn F v /F m . Activities of the antioxidant enzymes ascorbate peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione reductase, and catalase as well as ascorbate content increased in both species upon transfer, with superoxide dismutase exhibiting the most dramatic increase. Pumpkin, but not V. major, developed new leaves during the study which possessed the attributes of sun-acclimated leaves.
Improving Reading Strategy for Comprehension: âDoes Recall Compete withWorking Memory Manipulation?â

We investigated whether reading comprehension could be improved by strategic updating of working memory during reading, by providing upper elementary students with working memory consolidation training. We report data from ten fifth-grade students, half of which underwent strategic reading comprehension intervention. Response time data indicated that training in consolidating verbal information increased automaticity of recall. However, this improvement negatively correlated with post-training performance on Backward Digit Span, indicating possible tradeoffs between resource allocation toward the component of executive function moderating maintenance/recall, or toward the component moderating manipulation of working memory content
Myocardin Enhances Smad3-Mediated Transforming Growth Factor-β1 Signaling in a CArG Box-Independent Manner Smad-Binding Element Is an Important cis Element for SM22α Transcription In Vivo

Transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta1 is an important cytokine involved in various diseases. However, the molecular mechanism whereby TGF-beta1 signaling modulates the regulatory network for smooth muscle gene transcription remains largely unknown. To address this question, we previously identified a Smad-binding element (SBE) in the SM22alpha promoter as one of the TGF-beta1 response elements. Here, we show that mutation of the SBE reduces the activation potential of a SM22alpha promoter in transgenic mice during embryogenesis. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays reveal that TGF-beta1 induces Smad3 binding to the SM22alpha promoter in vivo. A multimerized SBE promoter responsive to TGF-beta1 signaling is highly activated by Smad3 but not by the closely related Smad2. Intriguingly, myocardin (Myocd), a known CArG box-dependent serum response factor coactivator, participates in Smad3-mediated TGF-beta1 signaling and synergistically stimulates Smad3-induced SBE promoter activity independent of the CArG box; no such synergy is seen with Smad2. Importantly, Myocd cooperates with Smad3 to activate the wild-type SM22alpha, SM myosin heavy chain, and SMalpha-actin promoters; they also activate the CArG box-mutated SM22alpha promoter as well as the CArG box-independent aortic carboxypeptidase-like protein promoter. Immunopreciptiation assays reveal that Myocd and Smad3 directly interact both in vitro and in vivo. Mutagenesis studies indicate that the C-terminal transactivation domains of Myocd and Smad3 are required for their functional synergy. These results reveal a novel regulatory mechanism whereby Myocd participates in TGF-beta1 signal pathway through direct interaction with Smad3, which binds to the SBEs. This is the first demonstration that Myocd can act as a transcriptional coactivator of the smooth muscle regulatory network in a CArG box-independent manner.
Born unwanted: Long-term developmental effects of denied abortion.

Studied were 220 children born in 1961–1963 to Prague women twice denied abortion for the same pregnancy and 220 pair-matched controls, whose mothers were also pair-matched for socioeconomic status and the husband's or partner's presence in the home. All the children were born into intact homes, and they were medically, psychologically, and socially assessed at ages 9, 14–16, and 21–23. Findings show that differences between the two groups of children widened over time, always to the disadvantage of the unwanted children. In the aggregate, unwantedness in early pregnancy has a detrimental effect on children's psychosocial development. In adulthood, marital partners of the unwanted children were similar to their spouses. Families founded by men or women unwanted in early pregnancy were more problem-prone than families founded by individuals wanted or accepted in early pregnancy. A further follow-up at age 30 is in progress.
Characterization of Chromium(III) Hydroxide Solids and Their Oxidation by Hydrogen Peroxide

Chromium is of great concern in the vitrification of high-level nuclear waste sludges because it forms separate crystallites in the molten glass...
Morality, Complexity, Experts, and Systems of Authority in House, M. D., or “My Big Brain is My Superpower”

At first, House, M. D. appears to be a medical procedural show, as it follows a physician and his team around as they diagnose mysteriously ill patients. However, rather than following procedure, House shows the protagonist Dr. Gregory House avoiding work and subverting the hospital’s policies, procedures, and authority. Dr. House’s success comes from his wit, intellect, and problem-solving abilities, all of which allow him to work outside of both standard medical practices and the hierarchy of his hospital. This article argues that House, rather than being the procedural it appears to be, is in actuality a superhero program. Dr. House’s intelligence is his superpower (much as is the case with comic superheroes), and it allows him to ignore traditional authority in favor of his own method. Consequently, House calls into question the very status and existence of both authority figures and mechanisms of control in the postmodern landscape.
Rotational and orientational behaviour of three-dimensional spheroidal particles in Couette flows

This paper reports the results of lattice Boltzmann simulations of the rotation behaviour of neutrally buoyant spheroidal particles in a three-dimensional Couette flow. We find several distinctive states depending on the Reynolds number range and particle shape. As the Reynolds number increases, rotation may change from one state to another. For a prolate spheroid, two rotation transitions are found. In the low Reynolds number range 0 <R < R 1 ≈ 205, the prolate spheroid rotates around its minor axis, which is parallel to the vorticity vector of the flow. The rate of rotation is a periodic function of time. In the intermediate Reynolds number range R1 <R< R2 ≈ 345, the prolate spheroid precesses about the vorticity direction with a nutational motion. The angular velocities are periodic functions of time. The mean nutation angle between the major axis and the vorticity increases monotonically as the Reynolds number increases. In the high Reynolds number range R2 <R <467, the prolate spheroid rotates with a constant rate around its major axis, which is parallel to the vorticity. For an oblate spheroid, only one rotation transition is observed. In the lower Reynolds number range 0 <R<R � 1 ≈ 220, the oblate spheroid finally spins with a constant rate around its minor axis (the symmetric axis of the revolution), which is parallel to the vorticity vector. In the higher Reynolds number range 220 ≈ R � 1 <R <467, the oblate spheroid still spins with a constant rate around its minor axis but there is a finite inclination angle between the minor axis and the vorticity vector. This angle increases as the Reynolds number increases.
The Duchenne Smile and Persuasion

We investigated persuasiveness as a social outcome of the ability to produce a deliberate Duchenne smile in a role-play task and of a participant’s use of a Duchenne smile while persuading someone in a live interaction. Participants were tasked with persuading an experimenter to drink a pleasant and unpleasant tasting juice as well as not drink a pleasant and unpleasant juice while being videotaped. Participants’ deliberate Duchenne smiling ability was measured by asking participants to smile while acting out “genuine happiness” and also to mask imagined negative affect with a smile. Smiles in the deliberate Duchenne smiling task and the persuasion task were coded for presence of the Duchenne marker, and naive viewers of the persuasion task made ratings of how pleasant they thought the juice was. Results showed further evidence that a sizeable minority of people can deliberately produce a Duchenne smile and showed that those with this ability are more persuasive. When persuading to drink the pleasant tasting juice, the correlation between the ability to produce a deliberate Duchenne smile and persuasion was partially due to the use of the Duchenne smile while persuading, but this was not the case with the unpleasant tasting juice. When persuading to drink the unpleasant juice, participants who could deliberately put on the Duchenne smile were more persuasive but their persuasiveness was not the result of using a Duchenne smile during the persuasion task.
In vitro generation of differentiated cardiac myofibers on micropatterned laminin surfaces

Cardiac muscle fibers consist of highly aligned cardiomyocytes containing myofibrils oriented parallel to the fiber axis, and successive cardiomyocytes are interconnected at their ends through specialized junctional complexes (intercalated disks). Cell culture studies of cardiac myofibrils and intercalated disks are complicated by the fact that cardiomyocytes become extremely flattened and exhibit disorganized myofibrils and diffuse intercellular junctions with neighboring cells. In this study we sought to direct the organization of cultured cardiomyocytes to more closely resemble that found in vivo. Lanes of laminin 5-50 microm wide were microcontact-printed onto nonadhesive (BSA-coated) surfaces. Adherent cardiomyocytes responded to the spatial constraints by forming elongated, rod-shaped cells whose myofibrils aligned parallel to the laminin lanes. Patterned cardiomyocytes displayed a striking, bipolar localization of the junction molecules N-cadherin and connexin43 that ultrastructurally resembled intercalated disks. When laminin lanes were widely spaced, each lane of cardiomyocytes beat independently, but with narrow-spacing cells bridged between lanes, yielding aligned fields of synchronously beating cardiomyocytes. Similar cardiomyocyte patterns were achieved on the biodegradable polymer PLGA, suggesting that patterned cardiomyocytes could be used in myocardial tissue engineering. Such highly patterned cultures could be used in cell biology and physiology studies, which require accurate reproduction of native myocardial architecture.
Alleviation of Human Papillomavirus E2-Mediated Transcriptional Repression via Formation of a TATA Binding Protein (or TFIID)-TFIIB-RNA Polymerase II-TFIIF Preinitiation Complex

Transcription in human papillomaviruses (HPVs) is mainly regulated by cellular transcription factors and virus-encoded E2 proteins that act as sequence-specific DNA-binding proteins. Although the functions of E2 as a transcriptional activator and a repressor have been well documented, the role of cellular factors involved in E2-mediated regulation of the HPV promoters and the mechanism by which E2 modulates viral gene expression remain unclear. Using reconstituted cell-free transcription systems, we found that cellular enhancer-binding factors and general cofactors, such as TAF(II)s, TFIIA, Mediator, and PC4, are not required for E2-mediated repression. Unlike other transcriptional repressors that function through recruitment of histone deacetylase or corepressor complexes, HPV E2 is able to directly target components of the general transcription machinery to exert its repressor activity on the natural HPV E6 promoter. Interestingly, preincubation of TATA binding protein (TBP) or TFIID with HPV template is not sufficient to overcome E2-mediated repression, which can be alleviated only via formation of a minimal TBP (or TFIID)-TFIIB-RNA polymerase II-TFIIF preinitiation complex. Our data therefore indicate that E2 does not simply work by displacing TBP or TFIID from binding to the adjacent TATA box. Instead, E2 appears to function as an active repressor that directly inhibits HPV transcription at steps after TATA recognition by TBP or TFIID.
Substitution of Adenovirus Serotype 3 Hexon onto a Serotype 5 Oncolytic Adenovirus Reduces Factor X Binding, Decreases Liver Tropism, and Improves Antitumor Efficacy

Following intravascular delivery, an important route of administration for many clinical applications, the liver is the predominant site of adenovirus serotype 5 (Ad5) sequestration, thereby posing a risk of toxicity. In this regard, it has recently been shown that the Ad5 capsid binds to the blood coagulation factor X (FX) via the Ad5 hexon protein. This interaction mediates the majority of Ad5 liver transduction. Patient FX levels can be diminished by the administration of warfarin, a vitamin K inhibitor in the liver that decreases FX production; however, warfarin is a potent anticoagulant and can have a number of undesired side effects. Therefore, genetic modification of the virus to ablate FX binding is the preferred approach. Modifications of the hexon protein, specifically within the hypervariable 5 (HVR5) and 7 (HVR7) regions, have produced Ad5 vectors that show minimal liver sequestration. Our laboratory has pioneered adenovirus hexon modifications, including insertion of peptide ligands into the hypervariable regions and substitution of the adenovirus hexon with hexon proteins from alternate serotypes. Substitution of the adenovirus serotype 3 (Ad3) hexon protein onto the Ad5 capsid has been further characterized with regard to its interaction with FX and incorporated into an infectivity-enhanced conditionally replicative adenovirus (CRAd). In vitro evaluation of these hexon-modified vectors showed decreased binding to FX and decreased cell transduction via FX-mediated pathways. Furthermore, in vivo biodistribution studies in mice exhibited a decrease in liver sequestration. With the use of xenograft tumor models, the antitumor efficacy of the hexon-modified CRAds was enhanced over nonmodified controls.
Planting densities and bird and rodent absence affect size distributions of four dicots in synthetic tallgrass communities

Variability in the size distributions of populations is usually studied in monocultures or in mixed plantings of two species. Variability of size distributions of populations in more complex communities has been neglected. The effects of seeding density (35 or 350 seeds/species/m2) and presence of small vertebrates on the variability of size distributions were studied for a total of 1,920 individuals of 4 species in replicated synthetic communities of 18 species in northern Illinois. End-of season height and above-ground biomass were measured for prairie perennials Dalea purpurea (purple prairie clover), Echinacea purpurea (purple coneflower), Desmanthus illinoensis (Illinois bundleflower) and Heliopsis helianthoides (early sunflower). Variability in biomass distribution of the four target species was twice as great at low than at high densities when small vertebrates were excluded. Our results suggest that inter- and intraspecific competition may affect all individuals more under high-density conditions, thereby reducing the variability in their biomass distributions within this community. This result, a consequence of plant-plant interaction, is obscured when small birds or mammals are present, presumably because either or both add variance that overwhelms the pattern.
The mammalian centrosome and its functional significance

Primarily known for its role as major microtubule organizing center, the centrosome is increasingly being recognized for its functional significance in key cell cycle regulating events. We are now at the beginning of understanding the centrosome’s functional complexities and its major impact on directing complex interactions and signal transduction cascades important for cell cycle regulation. The centrosome orchestrates entry into mitosis, anaphase onset, cytokinesis, G1/S transition, and monitors DNA damage. Recently, the centrosome has also been recognized as major docking station where regulatory complexes accumulate including kinases and phosphatases as well as numerous other cell cycle regulators that utilize the centrosome as platform to coordinate multiple cell cycle-specific functions. Vesicles that are translocated along microtubules to and away from centrosomes may also carry enzymes or substrates that use centrosomes as main docking station. The centrosome’s role in various diseases has been recognized and a wealth of data has been accumulated linking dysfunctional centrosomes to cancer, Alstrom syndrome, various neurological disorders, and others. Centrosome abnormalities and dysfunctions have been associated with several types of infertility. The present review highlights the centrosome’s significant roles in cell cycle events in somatic and reproductive cells and discusses centrosome abnormalities and implications in disease.
Who Should Mentor Me? Giving a Voice to Black Women Athletic Training Students

Context: Black women are dramatically underrepresented in the health care profession of athletic training. It may be theorized that one of the reasons more black female students are not entering into the profession of athletic training is that they do not have adequate mentors to successfully guide them. Objective: The purpose of our qualitative study was to examine the perceived effects of mentoring on the retention and credentialing of black women athletic trainers. Design: Qualitative. Setting: Clinical settings. Patients or Other Participants: Ten certified athletic trainers who self-designate as black women. Main Outcome Measure(s): We conducted one-on-one phone interviews and follow-up on personal case study interviews, which were transcribed verbatim. We performed constant comparative analysis of the data and established trustworthiness via member checks and peer review. Results: (1) Mentoring promotes matriculation and successful college completion and credentialing of black women athletic trainin...
Influence of nonsystemic transmission on the epidemiology of insect borne arboviruses: a case study of vesicular stomatitis epidemiology in the western United States.

Abstract Nonsystemic transmission, where a pathogen is transmitted between infected and uninfected vectors without the vertebrate host becoming viremic, may provide an explanation for transmission in systems where the vertebrate hosts have been difficult to identify. This transmission pathway had been previously demonstrated for tick-borne viruses and bacteria, but the recent demonstration for Simulium and vesicular stomatitis virus is the first for a blood-feeding insect. The epidemiology of vesicular stomatitis viruses has been difficult to understand, and nonsystemic transmission may be important. We use mathematical formulations of the basic reproduction number, R0, to compare systemic and nonsystemic transmission. The absence of a latent period before host infectiousness in nonsystemic transmission may allow a more rapid increase in prevalence in the biting flies early in the development of a new outbreak. Aggregation of flies between hosts and at favored feeding sites on hosts will be important, but...
Detection and Characterization of Package Defects and Integrity Failure using Dynamic Scanning Infrared Thermography (DSIRT).

A dynamic scanning infrared thermography (DSIRT) system developed at the Univ. of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) Packaging Lab relies on variation in transient thermal artifacts to indicate defects, and offers the possibility of characterization of many types of materials and structures. These include newer polymer and laminate-based structures for shelf-stable foods that lack a reliable, nondestructive method for inspection, which is a continuing safety issue. Preliminary trials were conducted on a polyester/aluminum foil/polypropylene retort pouch laminate containing artificially-induced failed seal and insulating inclusion defects ranging from 1 to 10 mm wide in the plane of the seal. The samples were placed in relative motion to a laterally positioned infrared laser, inducing heating through the plane of the seal. The emergent thermal artifact on the obverse side was sensed using either a bolometer camera or a thermopile sensor, with thermal anomalies indicating potential defects and the results of each sensors were compared. The bolometer camera detected defects to the limit of its measured optical resolution-approximately 1 mm at 20 cm-although the lower-resolution thermopile sensors were only capable of detecting 5 mm defects even at closer distances of approximately 5 mm. In addition, a supplementary magnification system was fitted to the bolometer camera which increased resolution but reduced field of view and would require a much higher frame rate to be useful. Automatic processing of the image data rapidly detected the model defects and can lead to development of an automated inspection system. Much higher material throughput speeds are feasible using faster instruments, and the system is scalable.
A Triarchic Theory of Human Intelligence

The triarchic theory of human intelligence provides a broader basis for understanding intelligence than do many, if not most theories of intelligence. The theory is called “triarchic” because it consists of three parts. The first part relates intelligence to the internal world of the individual, specifying the mental mechanisms that lead to more or less intelligent behaviour. This part of the theory specifies three kinds of mental processes that are instrumental in learning how to do things, planning what things to do and how to do them, and in actually doing the things. The second part of the theory specifies at what point in a persons’ experience with tasks or situations intelligence is most critically involved in handling of those tasks or situation In particular, this part of the theory emphasises the roles of dealing with novelty and of automatising mental processing in intelligence. The third part of the theory relates intelligence to the external world of the individual, specifying three kinds of macroprocesses — adaptation, selection and shaping — that characterise intelligent behaviour in the everyday world. This part of the theory thus emphasises the role of environmental context in determining what constitutes intelligent behaviour in a given milieu.
Circulating endothelial progenitor cells correlate to stage in patients with invasive breast cancer

616 Background: Tumor growth and metastasis is dependent on neo-angiogenesis. Both pre-existing and circulating vascular cells have been shown to contribute to the assembly of tumor neo-vessels in ...
Spray Cooling with Hfc-134a and Hfo-1234yf for Thermal Management of Automotive Power Electronics

This study aimed to experimentally investigate the spray cooling characteristics for active two-phase cooling of automotive power electronics. Tests were conducted on a small-scale, closed loop spray cooling system featuring a pressure atomized spray nozzle. Two types of refrigerants, HFC-134a (R-134a) and HFO-1234yf, were selected as the working fluids. The test section (heater), made out of oxygen-free copper, had a 1-cm2 plain, smooth surface prepared following a consistent procedure, and served as a baseline case. Matching size thick film resistors, attached onto the copper heaters, generated heat and simulated high heat flux power electronics devices. The experiments were performed with saturated working fluids at room temperature level (22°C) by controlling the heat flux in increasing steps, and recording the corresponding steady-state temperatures to obtain cooling curves. Performance comparisons were made based on heat transfer coefficient (HTC) and critical heat flux (CHF) values. Effects of spray characteristics and liquid flow rates on the cooling performance were determined with three types of commercially available nozzles that generate full-cone sprays with fine droplets, and with varying flow rates between 1.6 to 5.4 ml/cm2.s. The experimental data showed that HFC-134a provided better performance compared to HFO-1234yf, in terms of HTC and CHF, which is believed to be dictated by the thermophysical properties that affect both the spray characteristics and heat acquisition ability. Overall, this study provided a framework for spray cooling performance with the current and next-generation refrigerants aimed for advanced thermal management of automotive power electronics.Copyright © 2015 by ASME
Non-Linear Density Dependent Upconversion Luminescence Enhancement of β-NaYF 4 : Yb 3+ : Er 3+ Nanoparticles on Random Ag Nanowire Aggregates

Spectroscopic imaging and statistical analysis of NIR-to-visible upconversion luminescence (UCL) from β-NaYF4:Yb3+:Er3+ upconverting nanoparticles (UCNPs) supported on a series of random Ag nanowire aggregates reveals a density dependent UCL enhancement. Statistical analysis of the spectrally resolved upconversion images shows a non-linear dependence of upconversion luminescence enhancement with Ag nanowire surface coverage. A maximum average enhancement of 5.8× was observed for 58% surface coverage. Based on the empirically determined trend with density, it is estimated that up to 20× upconversion luminescence enhancement can be achieved at 100% surface coverage, even at high excitation intensity. This projection is commensurate with the 20× enhancement ratio observed for select locations within the imaged micro-ensemble. Time-resolved emission of the UC luminescence from UCNPs on the Ag nanowire aggregates confirms the surface plasmon effects on the UCNPs kinetics. Such Ag nanowire aggregates show potential as a scalable and relatively simple metal-enhanced upconversion substrate.
A Buzz in the Meadow

![Figure][1] As urban centers grow around the world, more people are living farther from natural and agrarian spaces than ever before. Dave Goulson's A Buzz in the Meadow provides a glimpse into these spaces that often go unnoticed, exploring the natural histories of the flora and fauna on a farm in the French countryside. Along the way, the book takes many unexpected turns to much broader (and sometimes very personal) tales of scientific discovery. Goulson, a biologist by training, begins the book with a tour of Chez Nauche, the abandoned farm he purchased in the Charente region of southwestern France. He gives engaging accounts of the natural histories of the newts, dragonflies, mantises, and other animals he encounters, which are meant to inspire readers to explore their own yards. Goulson hopes that in doing so, they will begin to value not only the “large charismatic, furry or feathery creatures, often living on the other side of the world, glimpsed only in television documentaries” but also smaller, familiar organisms that affect our environment in profound ways. He makes special examples of the insect species living on the farm, using meadow brown butterflies to explain the beginnings of the field of genetics and flies to highlight the mismanagement of landfills. In the second part of the book, Goulson weaves tales of complex interactions between plants, animals, and fungi to illustrate the interconnectedness of life. He closes with an examination of the many factors that can lead to the decline and eventual extinction of species, focusing particularly on bumblebees, which he has studied throughout his scientific career. His conclusions are grim: We have, he claims, been culpable in the mass extinction of life on Earth since the beginning of our evolution. But Goulson's goal—“to encourage everyone to cherish what we have, and to illustrate what wonders we stand to lose if we do not change our ways”—is clear and resonates throughout the book. ![Figure][1] Biologist Dave Goulson urges us to cherish and protect life in all its forms. PHOTO: ANVAY NAKADE/FLICKR Many of the life histories, species interactions, and ecological concepts outlined in this book can be found elsewhere in published literature, but what stands out are the deeply personal insights Goulson provides into the life of a scientist. When discussing the many species he has studied over his career, he chronicles the trials, small victories, and failures of a young biologist. He also reveals the triumphs and frustrations that can come from attempting to communicate important scientific research to nonplussed policymakers and members of the public. His experiences will resonate with many scientists and will provide the general reader with an interesting and accessible glimpse into the life of a naturalist. [1]: pending:yes
Short- and long-term clinical predictors of pharmacological cardioversion of persistent atrial fibrillation by dofetilide: A retrospective cohort study of 160 patients.

INTRODUCTION Dofetilide is a class III antiarrhythmic prescribed to cardiovert persistent atrial fibrillation (AF) to sinus rhythm (SR). HYPOTHESIS To determine the clinical predictors of cardioversion and readmission in persistent AF patients on dofetilide. METHODS We analyzed 160 patients with persistent AF who were started on dofetilide and followed for 1 year. We examined age, sex, race, hypertension, diabetes, smoking, dyslipidemia, CAD, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), creatinine, BMI and concomitant use of calcium channel blockers (CCB), β-blockers in a multivariable logistic regression model. We also examined the same predictors in Cox regression model for AF-related readmission within 1 year of follow-up. RESULTS 13.5% individuals did not convert to SR on dofetilide. 55.6% converted on the first dose and 83.1% converted by the fourth dose. In multivariable logistic models, dyslipidemia (OR: 2.4, CI: 1.12-5.16) and LVEF (OR: 3.83,CI: 1.37-10.8) were associated with failure to convert with the first dose. Female sex and LVEF also were associated with increased risk of failure to convert at all. Concomitant use of CCB associated with decreased risk of failure to convert to SR. In Cox proportional model, female sex, age <63 years and CAD were associated with increased AF readmission within 1 year. CONCLUSIONS Dyslipidemia and LVEF <40% were associated with failure to cardiovert after first dose, and female sex and LVEF 40% were related to failure to convert at all on dofetilide in persistent AF patients. After 1-year follow-up, female sex, known CAD, and age <63 years were associated with increased AF readmissions.
Abstract P17: Delirium in the Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit: Implementation of a Screening Tool, Prevalence and Lessons Learned

Background: Delirium is common among critically ill patients (pts) and can lead to significant morbidity and mortality; yet the impact of delirium in a medical/surgical cardiovascular intensive car...
High-Performance Polymers Sandwiched with Chemical Vapor Deposited Hexagonal Boron Nitrides as Scalable High-Temperature Dielectric Materials

Polymer dielectrics are the preferred materials of choice for power electronics and pulsed power applications. However, their relatively low operating temperatures significantly limit their uses in harsh-environment energy storage devices, e.g., automobile and aerospace power systems. Herein, hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) films are prepared from chemical vapor deposition (CVD) and readily transferred onto polyetherimide (PEI) films. Greatly improved performance in terms of discharged energy density and charge-discharge efficiency is achieved in the PEI sandwiched with CVD-grown h-BN films at elevated temperatures when compared to neat PEI films and other high-temperature polymer and nanocomposite dielectrics. Notably, the h-BN-coated PEI films are capable of operating with >90% charge-discharge efficiencies and delivering high energy densities, i.e., 1.2 J cm-3 , even at a temperature close to the glass transition temperature of polymer (i.e., 217 °C) where pristine PEI almost fails. Outstanding cyclability and dielectric stability over a straight 55 000 charge-discharge cycles are demonstrated in the h-BN-coated PEI at high temperatures. The work demonstrates a general and scalable pathway to enable the high-temperature capacitive energy applications of a wide range of engineering polymers and also offers an efficient method for the synthesis and transfer of 2D nanomaterials at the scale demanded for applications.
Energetic Basis of Single-Wall Carbon Nanotube Enantiomer Recognition by Single-Stranded DNA

Hybrids of single-stranded DNA and single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) have proven to be very successful in separating various chiralities and, recently, enantiomers of carbon nanotubes using aqueous two-phase separation. This technique sorts objects based on small differences in hydration energy, which is related to corresponding small differences in structure. Separation by handedness requires that a given ssDNA sequence adopt different structures on the two SWCNT enantiomers. Here we study the physical basis of such selectivity using a coarse-grained model to compute the energetics of ssDNA wrapped around an SWCNT. Our model suggests that difference by handedness of the SWCNT requires spontaneous twist of the ssDNA backbone. We also show that differences depend sensitively on the choice of DNA sequence.
Constrained-Energy Dynamic Cross-Well Motion of Bistable Structures Subjected to Noise Disturbance

Bistable structures have two stable equilibrium positions and can be utilized to maintain a static shape with no energy consumption. This paper focuses on the minimum energy required for performing...
Mechanism of fluid production from the nanopores of shale

Abstract Fluid production from the nanopores of shale is elucidated by an analytical solution of the linearized compressible Navier-Stokes equations with no-slip condition for the pore-scale drainage flow from a small capillary in a matrix block to the surrounding fractures. The pore-scale drainage flow is driven by the volumetric expansion of the compressed fluid and it is always unsteady. It is shown that fluid is produced by the decay of a standing acoustic wave and the no-slip flow has a period-averaged mass flow rate (drainage rate) proportional to the square of the capillary radius which is two orders of magnitude higher than that from the Poiseuille's law. The drainage speed is found proportional to fluid's kinematic viscosity but independent of the capillary radius, allowing the fluid to escape to the fracture with a finite speed regardless how small the capillary is. This result represents a fundamental departure from the classical Poiseuille flow theory and it provides a unified mechanism on how shale fluid is produced.
A Nomenclator of Diplostephium (Asteraceae: Astereae): A List of Species with Their Synonyms and Distribution by Country

Abstract: Since the description of Diplostephium by Kunth in 1820, more than 200 Diplostephium taxa have been described. In the absence of a recent revision of the genus, a nomenclator of Diplostephium is provided based on an extensive review of the taxonomic literature, herbarium material, and databases. Here, 111 species recognized in the literature are listed along with their reference citations, types, synonyms, subspecific divisions, and distributions by country. In addition, a list of doubtful names and Diplostephium names now considered to be associated with other taxa is provided.
Trauma-informed supervision: Core components and unique dynamics in varied practice contexts

The Co-Editors of the special issue on trauma-informed supervision describe the need for increased attention to this topic and their goals for this issue. They then provide an overview of each arti...
Uncemented press-fit total hip arthroplasty using the identifit custom-molding technique: A prospective minimum 2-year follow-up study

Fifty-three primary uncemented custom-molded Identifit (Depuy, Warsaw, IN) hip arthroplasties were evaluated prospectively at a mean follow-up period of 30 months. The custom technique provided the capability to reproduce the unique femoral offset, version, and height in each hip and to achieve high percentages of femoral canal fill. Surgical time for unilateral cases was a mean 153 minutes. Clinical results, however, were disappointing. Nine hips (17%) required stem revision for persistent thigh pain and limping. Of the remaining 44 hips, the mean Harris hip score was 83, and 20% experienced moderate to severe thigh pain and 50% had a limp. Radiographically, 65% of the stems had subsided and 27% had migrated into valgus. Survivorship analysis predicted an 80% stem survival rate at 43 months. A precise fit and fill of the femoral canal is not in itself sufficient for femoral implant stability in total hip arthroplasty surgery.