cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Simulating Non-normal Distributions with Specified L-Moments and L-Correlations

This paper derives a procedure for simulating continuous non-normal distributions with specified L-moments and L-correlations in the context of power method polynomials of order three. It is demonstrated that the proposed procedure has computational advantages over the traditional product-moment procedure in terms of solving for intermediate correlations. Simulation results also demonstrate that the proposed L-moment-based procedure is an attractive alternative to the traditional procedure when distributions with more severe departures from normality are considered. Specifically, estimates of L-skew and L-kurtosis are superior to the conventional estimates of skew and kurtosis in terms of both relative bias and relative standard error.Further, the L-correlation also demonstrated to be less biased and more stable than the Pearson correlation. It is also shown how the proposed L-moment-based procedure can be extended to the larger class of power method distributions associated with polynomials of order five.
Value Change in Industrial Societies

Ronald Inglehart has argued that, while most of the major political parties in Western countries tend to be aligned along a social class–based axis, support for new political movements and new political parties largely reflects the tension between materialist and postmaterialist goals and values. This has presented something of a dilemma to the traditional parties, and helps account for the decline of social-class voting. Scott Flanagan takes issue with Inglehart's interpretation in several particulars. Although their views converge in many respects, Flanagan urges conceptual reorientations and adumbrates a different interpretation of post–World War II political development in Europe and Japan.
Interactive Slice WIM: Navigating and Interrogating Volume Data Sets Using a Multisurface, Multitouch VR Interface

We present Interactive Slice World-in-Miniature (WIM), a framework for navigating and interrogating volumetric data sets using an interface enabled by a virtual reality environment made of two display surfaces: an interactive multitouch table, and a stereoscopic display wall. The framework addresses two current challenges in immersive visualization: 1) providing an appropriate overview+detail style of visualization while navigating through volume data, and 2) supporting interactive querying and data exploration, i.e., interrogating volume data. The approach extends the WIM metaphor, simultaneously displaying a large-scale detailed data visualization and an interactive miniature. Leveraging the table+wall hardware, horizontal slices are projected (like a shadow) down onto the table surface, providing a useful 2D data overview to complement the 3D views as well as a data context for interpreting 2D multitouch gestures made on the table. In addition to enabling effective navigation through complex geometries, extensions to the core Slice WIM technique support interacting with a set of multiple slices that persist on the table even as the user navigates around a scene and annotating and measuring data via points, paths, and volumes specified using interactive slices. Applications of the interface to two volume data sets are presented, and design decisions, limitations, and user feedback are discussed.
How to Grow a Mind: Statistics, Structure, and Abstraction

In coming to understand the world-in learning concepts, acquiring language, and grasping causal relations-our minds make inferences that appear to go far beyond the data available. How do we do it? This review describes recent approaches to reverse-engineering human learning and cognitive development and, in parallel, engineering more humanlike machine learning systems. Computational models that perform probabilistic inference over hierarchies of flexibly structured representations can address some of the deepest questions about the nature and origins of human thought: How does abstract knowledge guide learning and reasoning from sparse data? What forms does our knowledge take, across different domains and tasks? And how is that abstract knowledge itself acquired?
Sampling across space and time to validate natural experiments: an example with ant invasions in Hawaii.

Measuring the impacts of invasive species on recipient biotic communities can be challenging because standard ecological field experiments may be impossible, undesirable or inaccurate due to limita- tions of scale. Many studies therefore rely on a com- parative observational approach, in which invaded areas are compared to similar nearby uninvaded areas, but this approach suffers from reduced inferential power because of the inability to randomly assign treatments. When possible, the best solution may be to incorporate comparative sampling over time, from before and after invasion, as a means of validating comparisons across space. We used this approach to assess the impacts of Argentine and big-headed ants on arthropod communities at two natural area sites in the Hawaiian Islands. Two sampling events, separated by 2 years, indicated that invaded plots at each site were significantly different from uninvaded plots in terms of overall community composition and distributions of certain indicator species. This compositional change associated with ant invasion was accompanied by a significant decrease in arthropod species richness at one site, but not at the second site. Changes in arthropod communities from before invasion to after invasion in separate before-after plots at each site were qualitatively consistent with the aforementioned changes measured across the invasion boundaries, but were smaller in magnitude because the invasion processes were still in early stages. Together, these findings support the inference that carefully planned studies of biological invasions that use a comparative observational approach can provide an accurate picture of resultant community level changes, and illustrate an effective method for validating such studies.
Model to Describe the Binodal Curve on a Type 1 Ternary Phase Diagram

A regression curve based on a Weibull distribution model is generated to describe the binodal curve on a three component liquid-liquid ternary phase diagram. The methodology involves transforming the experimental phase partitioning data points of each mixture from the ternary phase diagram to equivalent Cartesian coordinates. The regression curve is then generated, and the regression curve becomes the Weibull-derived binodal curve by superimposing the regression curve onto the original ternary phase diagram. A total of seven regression curves for seven ternary mixtures are generated in this study. From the regression analysis, the resulting R2 value for each mixture is very close to one, indicating that there is strong correlation between the regression curve and the transformed experimental data points. The method developed in this research allows researchers to empirically describe a binodal curve, which is useful in analyzing and predicting the various phase partitioning scenarios of a three-component ...
Propagation prediction techniques and antenna modeling (150 to 1705 kHz) for intelligent transportation systems (ITS) broadcast applications

This paper discusses the basic aspects of radio-wave propagation and antenna modeling at 150 to 1705 kHz. The paper contains descriptions of both sky-wave and ground-wave propagation-prediction models, in addition to the methodology used to analyze antennas that operate in this band. A method of calculating and normalizing antenna gain for system computations is also discussed. The sky-wave models described in this paper are valid from 150 to 1705 kHz. The ground-wave models described in this paper are valid from 10 kHz to 30 MHz. The propagation of radio waves from 150 to 1705 kHz includes both a ground wave and a sky wave, and is quite different from propagation at any other frequency. The methods used for antenna modeling and analysis in this band are also quite unlike those in other bands. The AM broadcast band of 535 to 1605 kHz is planned to be used in the advanced traveler information systems (ATIS) of intelligent transportation systems (ITS), to provide information such as road conditions, road hazards, weather, and incident reporting for rural travelers. The band of frequencies from 285 to 325 kHz is presently being used in another application of ITS, called the Differential Global Positioning System (DGPS), which will be used for precision location of vehicles. The propagation-prediction models and antenna-analysis methods described here can be used for designing systems and making performance predictions for both of these ITS applications, or for any other systems that operate in this band of frequencies from 150 to 1705 kHz. Some examples of comparisons of measured and predicted data are also presented. A computer program that includes all of these propagation-prediction models and antenna-modeling techniques was used.
Periprosthetic Joint Infections Treated with Two-Stage Revision over 14 Years: An Evolving Microbiology Profile

Abstract Late periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) occurs in 0.3%–1.7% of total hip arthroplasties (THAs) and 0.8%–1.9% of total knee arthroplasties (TKAs). Surgical debridement, explant, and appropriate antibiotics are imperative for successful treatment. We analyzed organisms from PJIs at one institution for temporal trends over 14years. Poisson regression model demonstrated a linear increase in infection rate for the following bacteria as the primary organism: MRSA (incidence rate ratio [IRR]=1.11, P =0.019), Streptococcus viridans (IRR=1.18, P =0.002), and Propionibacterium acnes (IRR=1.21, P =0.024). The increase in proportion of these organisms may warrant further discussion on pre-surgical MRSA screening and empiric therapy to include MRSA coverage, increased incubation time to detect P. acnes , and dental prophylaxis against S. viridans .
Advanced Techniques Using Contrast Media in Neuroimaging

This article presents an overview of advanced MRI techniques using contrast media in neuroimaging, focusing on T2*-weighted dynamic susceptibility contrast MR imaging (DSC-MRI) and T1-weighted dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging (DCE-MRI). Image acquisition and data processing methods as well as their clinical application in brain tumors, stroke, dementia and multiple sclerosis are discussed.
Pharmacokinetic Properties of a Single Intramuscular Dose of Buprenorphine in African Grey Parrots (Psittacus erithacus erithacus)

Abstract Buprenorphine is a synthetic mixed agonist-antagonist opiate analgesic that is used in a variety of species. To determine if a dose of buprenorphine at 0.1 mg/kg achieves plasma concentrations in parrots that would be analgesic in humans (0.5–1.0 ng/ml), we administered a single dose of buprenorphine (at 0.1 mg/kg) either intramuscularly (5 birds) or intravenously (1 bird) to African grey parrots (Psittacus erithacus erithacus). Serial plasma samples were taken before and at 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1.0, 1.5, 2, 6, and 8 hours after administration. For a single intramuscular dose, buprenorphine was rapidly absorbed, and plasma concentrations had a mean residence time of 1.0 hour, elimination half-life of 1.0 hour, and maximum concentration of 68.7 ng/ml, determined by using noncompartmental analysis. This dose of buprenorphine can achieve plasma levels for at least 2 hours in the African grey parrot for comparable analgesic levels in humans, however buprenorphine is not recommended as an analgesic treatm...
Update on diagnostic imaging for melanoma.

In 2001, an estimated 51,400 new cases of melanoma were diagnosed and 7800 people died of the disease in the United States. Melanoma of the skin accounts for 5% of all cancers in men and 4% of all cancers in women [1]. By virtue of its metastatic potential, melanoma accounts for the vast majority of deaths from cutaneous malignancies [2]. Fortunately, most patients present with early-stage disease and can be cured with surgical intervention; however, those with disseminated disease may expect a median survival time of 6 to 10 months [3–5]. The biologic behavior of melanoma is unpredictable, with variations in the patterns of metastatic spread [4,5]. Autopsy series reveal that melanoma may metastasize to virtually any organ system, with a predilection for lymph nodes, lung, liver, and brain [6]. Clinically, the most common sites of distant metastases are nonvisceral sites (eg, skin, subcutaneous tissues, distant lymph nodes), followed by the lungs, brain, liver, and bones [4]. The site and number of metastases are important prognostic indicators for survival [3,4].
Augmented vertical rectus transposition surgery with single posterior fixation suture: modification of Foster technique.

Purpose To describe a modification of the lateral posterior fixation augmentation suture of the vertical rectus muscles that is proposed to enhance the abducting vector while balancing the vertical vectors, therefore limiting stress on the sclera and preventing vertical deviations. Methods Full tendon temporal transposition of the vertical rectus muscles was performed on 5 patients with Duane retraction syndrome and 5 with sixth (abducens) nerve palsy. Augmentation was created by the use of a single lateral fixation suture of 5–0 polyester that incorporated the muscle bellies of both vertical muscles. The lateral rectus muscle was disinserted and attached to the lateral orbital wall in 4 of the patients with Duane syndrome. Results Four of 5 patients with Duane syndrome and 4 of 5 patients with abducens nerve palsy had successful horizontal alignment, defined as reduction or elimination of head turn, a deviation ≤10 Δ , and resolution of diplopia. Patients with Duane syndrome had improved adduction, elimination of co-contraction, and decreased torticollis. Patients with abducens nerve palsy were noted to have a reduction of esotropia with improved abduction. Conclusions The modified technique limits stress on the scleral portion of the lateral fixation suture; the opposing vertical vectors are transmitted to the opposite vertical rectus muscle. Patients exhibited improved abduction, adduction, torticollis, and range of single binocular vision with a low risk of vertical deviations induced by surgery. Complications included repeat strabismus surgery (2 cases) and scleral perforation (1 case). A vertical deviation of 3 Δ developed in 1 patient.
Effectiveness of generator control strategies on meeting pulsed load requirements in ship electric systems

The performance of a notional fully-integrated ship power system with a pulsed power combat system load was analyzed in the virtual test bed (VTB). Two traditional voltage control strategies (General Electric SCR excitation control and Westinghouse brushless control) and a nonlinear voltage control based on the Lyapunov direct method were implemented as voltage control for the synchronous generator. The power system is simulated for each of the three control strategies and responses to the pulsed power load are compared.
Reasonable Self-Interest

Philosophers have debated for millennia about whether moral requirements are always rational to follow. The background for these debates is often what I shall call “the self-interest model.” The guiding assumption here is that the basic demand of reason, to each person, is that one must, above all, advance one's self-interest. Alternatively, debate may be framed by a related, but significantly different, assumption: the idea that the basic rational requirement is to develop and pursue a set of personal ends in an informed, efficient, and coherent way, whether one's choice of ends is based on self-interested desires or not. For brevity I refer to this as “the coherence-and-efficiency model.” Advocates of both models tend to think that, while it is sufficiently clear in principle what the rational thing to do is, what remains in doubt is whether it is always rational to be moral. They typically assume that morality is concerned, entirely or primarily, with our relations to others, especially with obligations that appear to require some sacrifice or compromise with the pursuit of self-interest.
The effect of adiabatic wall roughness elements on natural convection heat transfer in vertical enclosures

The natural convection heat transfer in a two-dimensional vertical enclosure fitted with a periodic array of large rectangular elements on the bottom horizontal wall is investigated numerically. The numerical investigation is carried out for the ranges of Rayleigh numbers (Ra[inH]) and aspect ratios (W/H) of 1.85 × 102−1.85× 107 and 0.4–2.4, respectively. Prandtl numbers (Pr) of 0.72 and 4.52 are considered. It is found that the large roughness elements reduce the heat transfer rate across the enclosure. The reduction in heat transfer is more significant for enclosures with W/H > 1. The highest value of heat transfer reduction obtained in this research is 44%. This is obtained for an enclosure with W/H = 2.4 at RaH= 1.85 x 104 andPr = 4.52,
Computation of conformational transitions in proteins by virtual atom molecular mechanics as validated in application to adenylate kinase.

Many proteins function through conformational transitions between structurally disparate states, and there is a need to explore transition pathways between experimentally accessible states by computation. The sizes of systems of interest and the scale of conformational changes are often beyond the scope of full atomic models, but appropriate coarse-grained approaches can capture significant features. We have designed a comprehensive knowledge-based potential function based on a Cα representation for proteins that we call the virtual atom molecular mechanics (VAMM) force field. Here, we describe an algorithm for using the VAMM potential to describe conformational transitions, and we validate this algorithm in application to a transition between open and closed states of adenylate kinase (ADK). The VAMM algorithm computes normal modes for each state and iteratively moves each structure toward the other through a series of intermediates. The move from each side at each step is taken along that normal mode showing greatest engagement with the other state. The process continues to convergence of terminal intermediates to within a defined limit—here, a root-mean-square deviation of 1 Å. Validations show that the VAMM algorithm is highly effective, and the transition pathways examined for ADK are compatible with other structural and biophysical information. We expect that the VAMM algorithm can address many biological systems.
Detrital zircon constraints on terrane ages and affinities and timing of orogenic events in the San Juan Islands and North Cascades, Washington

Detrital zircon geochronology of this report pertains to Cretaceous orogeny in northwest Washington, an event that involved blueschist metamorphism and emplacement of nappes in the San Juan Islands...
What the Demolition of Public Housing Teaches Us about the Impact of Racial Threat on Political Behavior

How does the context in which a person lives affect his or her political behavior? I exploit an event in which demographic context was exogenously changed, leading to a significant change in voters' behavior and demonstrating that voters react strongly to changes in an outgroup population. Between 2000 and 2004, the reconstruction of public housing in Chicago caused the displacement of over 25,000 African Americans, many of whom had previously lived in close proximity to white voters. After the removal of their African American neighbors, the white voters' turnout dropped by over 10 percentage points. Consistent with psychological theories of racial threat, their change in behavior was a function of the size and proximity of the outgroup population. Proximity was also related to increased voting for conservative candidates. These findings strongly suggest that racial threat occurs because of attitude change rather than selection.
Contextual effects on metaphor comprehension in reading

Subjects read target sentences preceded by either short or long context that induced either a metaphoric or a literal target reading. As had been found by Ortony, Schallert, Reynolds, and Antos (1978), metaphoric targets were comprehended about as quickly as literals when context was long, but more slowly than literals when context was short. The latter result may have been due to the failure of computing a conceptual relationship between short context and metaphoric target; targets unrelated to prior context took as long to comprehend as metaphoric targets. Another experiment showed that metaphorically expressed targets were read more quickly when they followed metaphorically expressed context than when they followed literal context, but literal targets were read quickest when they followed literal context. These results are discussed within a schema framework and within a “process priming” hypothesis.
Stability of hybrid system limit cycles: application to the compass gait biped robot

Limit cycles are common in hybrid systems. However the nonsmooth dynamics of such systems makes stability analysis difficult. This paper uses recent extensions of trajectory sensitivity analysis to obtain the characteristic multipliers of nonsmooth limit cycles. The stability of a limit cycle is determined by its characteristic multipliers. The concepts are illustrated using a compass gait biped robot example.
A Monte-Carlo method for portfolio optimization under partially observed stochastic volatility

In this paper we implement an algorithm for the optimal selection of a portfolio of stock and risk-free asset under the stochastic volatility (SV) model with discrete observation and trading. The SV model extends the classical Black-Scholes model (1973) by allowing the noise intensity (volatility) to be random. The main assumption is that the portfolio manager has discrete access to the continuous-time stock prices; as a consequence the volatility is not observed directly. In this partial information situation, one cannot hope for an arbitrarily accurate estimate of the stochastic volatility. Using instead a new type of optimal stochastic filtering, and its associated particle method due to del Moral, Jacod, and Protter (1990), our algorithm, of the "smart" Monte-Carlo-type, approximates the new Hamilton-Jacobi-Bellman equation that is required for solving the stochastic control problem that is defined by the portfolio optimization question.
TERRESTRIAL HABITAT: A VITAL COMPONENT FOR HERPETOFAUNA OF ISOLATED WETLANDS

A wetland ecosystem, no matter how small or isolated, includes biotic and abiotic features that interact to promote biodiversity at larger landscape scales. Isolated wetlands, in particular, harbor a significant portion of regional fauna and are often critical habitats for maintaining herpetofaunal biodiversity in southern wetlands. Long-term research on isolated wetlands reveals that two terrestrial habitats contiguous with the wetland—the terrestrial periphery and terrestrial corridors that connect isolated wetlands—are vital for much of the animal community. The U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling on the SWANCC decision has severely threatened the continued existence of such wetlands and their associated animals. Recognition that terrestrial habitats associated with isolated wetlands are essential elements for enhancing biodiversity could garner support from regulators, resource managers, and the general public in strengthening wetlands protection.
Alterations in β3-Adrenergic Cardiac Innervation and Nitric Oxide Signaling in Heart Failure⁎

Sympathetic activation of cardiac beta-adrenergic signaling pathways modulates inotropic, chronotropic, and lusitropic responses, providing fundamental control over cardiac reserve responses ([1][1]). Classically these effects are mediated through the 7-transmembrane spanning, G-protein coupled
The medication monitor for treating tuberculosis in the developing countries.

Significant advances to reduce the problem of poor patient compliance with antituberculosis drug regimens have been the development of intermittent or short-term regimens where some member of the health team directly administers or supervises each dose of medication. Such supervised regimens for all patients is a missapplication of technology. The least expensive reasonably effective drug regimen for many developing countries is isoniazid and thiacetazone for 18 months with an initial 2-month supplement of streptomycin yet many failures occur primarily because of poor patient compliance. A medication monitor is the best means for differentiating reliable from unreliable patients allowing the appropriate degree of supervision to be selected for each patient. A model illustrating the principle of the medication monitor is shown in figure form. Trials with this type of device in both developed and developing countries have demonstrated that it can differentiate reliable from unreliable patients. 1 problem previously inhibiting the use of the medication monitor is the lack of a means for immediate development of the filmstrip if developing tanks and darkrooms are not readily available. The film has been packaged in a water-tight envelope of opaque polyvinyl chloride and this prevents the film from being exposed to light and also functions as a developing tank. The lowering of cost and the creation of a simple film development system makes the medication monitor an attractice alternative to completely supervised short-term or intermittent chemotherapy for reliable and reasonably reliable patients.
Trade, Aid and Migration

Le theme du seminaire presente ici a porte sur le rapport entre le commerce, les investissements etrangers et l'emploi de la main-d'oeuvre a l'interieur des frontieres. Les courants migratoires deviennent de moins en moins controlables dans la mesure ou ils resultent de plus en plus d'une poussee vers l'emigration et non plus d'une demande d'immigration. C'est la politique economique d'un pays et le developpement de son commerce interieur qui lui permet le mieux de garder sa main-d'oeuvre
Parental Involvement in Foster Family Care

Parental involvement has become a cornerstone of the movement to promote permanency planning for children and youth who are placed - or at risk of placement - out of their homes. Foster family care in particular provides many opportunities for effective involvement of biological parents in child welfare practice. Following consideration of the rationale and purposes of parental involvement, this article focuses on implications and guidelines for promoting optimal participation of biological parents.
E-049 Intraprocedural Diagnosis of Flow-Diverting Stent Malapposition during Endovascular Aneurysm Treatment with DynaCT Imaging

Introduction The treatment of large, complex intracranial aneurysms is being increasingly performed using flow-diverting stents (FDS) such as the Pipeline Embolization Device (PED). Malapposition of a FDS to the parent artery wall decreases the likelihood of aneurysm obliteration and increases the risk of both immediate and delayed complications. DynaCT is a novel imaging modality which uses a flat plane detector to generate computed tomography images using the same C-arm employed for digital subtraction angiography. Methods We present a case of a 40 year-old female with a large, unruptured, cavernous internal carotid artery (ICA) aneurysm who was treated with endovascular obliteration using a PED. Results A 6 French Chaperon guide catheter was navigated into the left ICA through which subsequent control angiograms could be performed. Cerebral angiography showed a lobular, cavernous ICA aneurysm measuring 11 mm in maximal diameter with a wide 7.5 mm neck. An Excelsior XT-27 microcatheter advanced over an Asahi Chikai microguidewire into the M1 segment of the middle cerebral artery (MCA). A 4.75 × 20 mm PED was advanced through the XT-27 microcatheter and deployed across the aneurysm neck. After removing the XT-27 microcatheter, a control angiogram through the Chaperon guide catheter showed appropriate position of the PED in relation to the aneurysm. Intraprocedural DynaCT was performed after PED deployment to critically assess apposition of the PED to the wall of the parent artery. The injection parameters for the DynaCT were as follows: 20 sec rotation, 3 mL contrast per sec, 0.2 rate rise, injection at 300 psi, and X-ray delay of 2 sec following initiation of injection. The radiation parameters were as follows: 70 kV, pulse width 12.5 msec, dose 1200 μGy per hour, total angle 200o, angulation step 0.4o per frame. The DynaCT revealed a slight overhang of the distal portion of the PED which could not be identified on angiography (Figure). Based on these findings, an angioplasty of the distal PED was performed using a 4 × 10 mm TransForm balloon. Following removal of the balloon, a final control angiogram was performed which showed no evidence of intraprocedural complications. The patient remained neurologically stable following PED treatment and was discharged home the next day. Conclusions While gross stent malapposition is readily evident after stent deployment, minor instances of malapposition may be undetectable by standard angiography. Therefore the use of DynaCT may improve intraprocedural stent visualization and potentially avert long-term endovascular aneurysm treatment complications associated with inadequate stent apposition. Disclosures D. Ding: None. R. Starke: None. C. Durst: None. J. Gaughen: None. A. Evans: None. M. Jensen: None. K. Liu: None.
Network Analytics and Configurability

End user and application experience requirements are driving the exploitation and utilization of network telemetry and datasources. Real time network analytics is critically relevant for orchestrating automated, software designed and defined network functionality supporting these requirements. Article not available.
DOMESTICATION AND CHARATERISTIC OF HIGHER-TEMPERATURE RESISTING AND CHARATERISTIC OF HIGHER-TEMPERATURE RESISTING AND ARSENIC RESISTING Thiobacillus ferrooxidans STRAIN SH-T

The Thiobacillus ferrooxoidans strain SH-T which was isolated directly from acid mine water in arsenopyrite gold ores is a kind of fine strain. A series of experiments under extreme conidtions showed that the strain SH-T could tolerate higher temperature and higher arsenic ion concentration, and could grow at 25-52℃ and oxidize Fe2+ to Fe3+ in solutions at 43℃. Hence, it could be used for the biological oxidation process of refractory gold ores.
Estonia's Post-Soviet Agricultural Reforms: Lessons for Cuba

Estonia's Post-Soviet Agricultural Reforms: Lessons for Cuba is part of the 2013 Annual Proceedings of The Association for the Study of the Cuban Economy.
Effects of Tannic Acid on Lipid and Protein Oxidation, Color, and Volatiles of Raw and Cooked Chicken Breast Meat during Storage

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of tannic acid (TA) on the oxidative stability and the quality characteristics of ground chicken breast meat. Five treatments including (1) control (none added), (2) 2.5 ppm TA, (3) 5 ppm TA, (4) 10 ppm TA, and (5) 5 ppm butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) were added to boneless, skinless ground chicken breast meat, and used for both raw and cooked meat studies. For the raw meat study, the ground chicken breast meat was packaged in oxygen-permeable bags and stored at 4 °C for 7 days. For the cooked study, raw ground meat samples were vacuum-packaged in oxygen-impermeable vacuum bags, cooked in-bag to the internal temperature of 75 °C, re-packaged in oxygen-permeable bags, and then stored. Both raw and cooked meats were analyzed for lipid and protein oxidation, color, and volatiles (cooked meat only) at 0, 3, and 7 days of storage. Raw meats with 10 ppm of TA added had significantly (p ≤ 0.05) lower lipid and protein oxidation than other treatments during storage. In addition, TA at 10 ppm level maintained the highest color a*- and L*-values during storage. Cooked chicken breast meat with 5 and 10 ppm TA added produced significantly (p ≤ 0.05) lower amounts of off-odor volatiles than other treatments. Among the volatile compounds, the amount of hexanal increased rapidly during storage for cooked meat. However, meats with 5 and 10 ppm TA added showed the lowest amount of hexanal and other aldehydes related to lipid oxidation, indicating a strong antioxidant effect of TA in cooked chicken breast meat. Furthermore, the differences in aldehydes among the treatments were bigger in cooked than in raw meat, indicating that the antioxidant effect of TA in cooked meat was greater than that in raw meat. Therefore, TA at >5 ppm can be used as a good natural preservative in cooked chicken meat to maintain its quality during storage.
Studies on african saurian malarias: plasmodium parasites of Cordylid lizards

The saurian malarial parasite Plasmodium zonuriae Pienaar, 1962 is redescribed from the type host Cordylus vittiler (Reichenow), collected near the type locality. It is characterized by polymorphic schizonts, larger than host cell nuclei, which produce 12-28 merozoites, usually arranged around the schizont margin. Gametocytes, most often elongate, are larger than host cell nuclei, which are often partially encircled by the parasite. Infected erythrocytes are enlarged and may show nuclear hypertrophy. In a second host, Pseudocordylus microlepidotus melanotus (Smith), schizonts and gametocytes of P. zonuriae are smaller but closely resemble those from the type host. Merozoite range and mean numbers are virtually identical. Another malarial parasite of cordylid lizards, Plasmodium cordyli n. sp., is described from Tanzanian Cordylus cordylus Iropidoslernum (Cope). Gametocytes are typically round or oval and average smaller than host cell nuclei. The variably shaped schizonts are also smaller than host cell nuclei and produce 5-11 merozoites in the type host. Asexual parasites and young gametocytes are commonly nucleophilic. Cells host to gametocytes, and their nuclei, may be enlarged ; this effect was not observed when erythrocytes were parasitized by schizonts. A small Plasmodium parasite found in Cordylus villifer from Transvaal is probably conspecific with P. cordyli. Gametocytes are virtually identical morphometrically and in appearance, but schizonts are larger, about the size of host cell nuclei, and produce 8-14 merozoites.
Optimal exergy-based control of internal combustion engines

Abstract Exergy or availability is defined as the maximum useful work during a process. This metric has been used to analyze and understand loss mechanisms of Internal Combustion Engines (ICEs). In this paper, an optimal control method based on exergy is introduced for transient and steady state operation of ICEs. First, an exergy model is developed for a single cylinder Ricardo engine. The ICE exergy model is based on the Second Law of Thermodynamics (SLT) and characterizes irreversibilities. Such quantifications are not identified in the First Law of Thermodynamics (FLT) analysis. For steady-state operation of the ICE, a set of 175 different operating conditions is used to construct the SLT efficiency maps. Two different SLT efficiency maps are generated depending on the applications whether work, or Combined Power and Exhaust Exergy (CPEX) is the desired output. To include transient ICE operation, a model to predict exergy loss/destruction during engine transients is developed. The sources of exergy destruction/loss are identified for a Homogeneous Charge Compression Ignition (HCCI) engine. Based on the engine operating conditions (i.e., steady-state or transient) SLT efficiency contour maps or predicted exergy losses are determined at every given engine load. An optimization algorithm is proposed to find the optimum combustion phasing to maximize the SLT efficiency. Application of the optimization algorithm is illustrated for combustion phasing control. The results show that using the exergy-based optimal control strategy leads to an average of 6.7% fuel saving and 8.3% exergy saving compared to commonly used FLT based combustion control in which a fixed combustion phasing (e.g., 8 ° aTDC ) is used.
The role of adrenergic system in regulation of cardiac myosin heavy chain gene expression.

The cardiac phenotype exhibits considerable plasticity, being under the regulation of numerous factors, such as developmental stage, functional load, as well as nutritional and hormonal states of the animal Several lines of evidence indicate that the adrenergic nervous system plays an important role in the redistribution of myosin isoforms in the heart. For example, chemical sympathectomy favors the expression of V3 isomyosin at the expense of V1. In this study, we have examined the effect of adrenergic pathways on the expression of cardiac myosin heavy chain (MHC) genes. The level of cAMP was modulated by either adding forskolin or 8-bromo-cAMP to primary cultures of embryonic (18 d) cardiac myocytes. We have found that the level of mRNA coding for MHC-α was increased two- to three-fold. The effect was dose- and time-dependent and was potentiated further when the 8-Br-cAMP was given together with a phosphodiesterase inhibitor. The same changes were found in KCl arrested cells, indicating independence of contractile activity. Treatment of cells known to activate the protein kinase C (TPA) and inositol triphosphate pathways has increased the level of β-MHC mRNA while that of α-MHC remained unchanged. These data lend strong support to direct effect of the adrenergic system on activity of cardiac genes.
Metastatic prostate cancer in the modern era of PSA screening.

ABSTRACT Introduction To characterize initial presentation and PSA screening status in a contemporary cohort of men treated for metastatic prostate cancer at our institution. Materials and methods We reviewed records of 160 men treated for metastatic prostate cancer between 2008-2014 and assessed initial presentation, categorizing patients into four groups. Groups 1 and 2 presented with localized disease and received treatment. These men suffered biochemical recurrence late (>1 year) or earlier (<1 year), respectively, and developed metastases. Groups 3 and 4 had asymptomatic and symptomatic metastases at the outset of their diagnosis. Patients with a first PSA at age 55 or younger were considered to have guideline-directed screening. Results Complete records were available on 157 men for initial presentation and 155 men for PSA screening. Groups 1, 2, 3 and 4 included 27 (17%), 7 (5%), 69 (44%) and 54 (34%) patients, respectively. Twenty (13%) patients received guideline-directed PSA screening, 5/155 (3%) patients presented with metastases prior to age 55 with their first PSA, and 130/155 (84%) had their first PSA after age 55, of which 122/130 (94%) had metastasis at the time of diagnosis. Conclusion Despite widespread screening, most men treated for metastatic prostate cancer at our institution presented with metastases rather than progressed after definitive treatment. Furthermore, 25 (16%) patients received guideline-directed PSA screening at or before age 55. These data highlight that, despite mass screening efforts, patients treated for incurable disease at our institution may not have been a result of a failed screening test, but a failure to be screened.
A modified simple dynamic model: Derived from the information embedded in observed streamflows

Abstract A zero-dimension hydrological model has been developed to simulate the discharge (Q) from watershed groundwater storage(S). The model is a modified version of the original model developed by Kirchner in 2009 which uses a unique sensitivity function, g ( Q ) to represent the relation between rate of flow recession and the instantaneous flow rate. The modified dynamic model instead uses a normalized sensitivity function g ( Q norm ) which provides the model the flexibility to encompass the hysteretic effect of initial water storage on flow during recession periods. The sensitivity function is normalized based on a correlation function F ( Q ) which implicitly quantifies the influence of initial storage conditions on recession flow dynamics. For periods of either positive or negative net recharge to groundwater the model applies a term similar in form to an analytical solution based on solution to the linearized Boussinesq equation. The combination of these two streamflow components, the recession component and the net recharge response, provides the model with the flexibility to realistically mimic the hysteresis in the Q vs. S relations for a watershed. The model is applied to the Sagehen Creek watershed, a hilly watershed located in the Sierra Mountains of California. The results show that the modified model has an improved performance to simulate the discharge dynamic encompassing a wide range of water storage (degree of wetness) representing an almost ten-fold variation in annual streamflow.
Automatic Measuring System for Process of Zinc Hydrometallurgy

Abstract The measuring system for monitoring the neutralizing process of zinc hydro-metallurgy includes an electrode potential analysis system, an electric potential titrimetry analysis system and a photoelectric coloriraetry analysis system. They are used to measure the sulphuric acid concentration, the iron concentration and pH respectively. They use an automatic sample and sample-handling system commonly. The key of the sample-handling system is to filtrate the solution of neutralizing reaction. In that sample-handling system, a new method to filtrate the sample has been first adopted. In the titrimetry analysis system, the burette of a capacitance type has been first adopted. In the colorimetry analysis system, the colorimetric cell possesses the particular structure avoiding the fog. In the electrode potential analysis system, it is a serious problem that a great quantity of dirt has been deposited on the surface of the electrode. That problem has been solved in this measuring system.
Novel Therapies for Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Are We Finally Breaking the Deadlock?

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is one of the best studied malignancies, and significant progress has been made in understanding the clinical implications of its disease biology. Unfortunately, drug development has not kept pace, as the ‘7+3’ induction regimen remains the standard of care for patients fit for intensive therapy 40 years after its first use. Temporal improvements in overall survival were mostly confined to younger patients and driven by improvements in supportive care and use of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Multiple forms of novel therapy are currently in clinical trials and are attempting to bring bench discoveries to the bedside to benefit patients. These novel therapies include improved chemotherapeutic agents, targeted molecular inhibitors, cell cycle regulators, pro-apoptotic agents, epigenetic modifiers, and metabolic therapies. Immunotherapies in the form of vaccines; naked, conjugated and bispecific monoclonal antibodies; cell-based therapy; and immune checkpoint inhibitors are also being evaluated in an effort to replicate the success seen in other malignancies. Herein, we review the scientific basis of these novel therapeutic approaches, summarize the currently available evidence, and look into the future of AML therapy by highlighting key clinical studies and the challenges the field continues to face.
Dermatopontin in Bone Marrow Extracellular Matrix Regulates Adherence but Is Dispensable for Murine Hematopoietic Cell Maintenance.

Summary The hematopoietic marrow microenvironment is composed of multiple cell types embedded in an extracellular matrix (ECM). We have explored marrow ECM using mass spectrometry and found dermatopontin (DPT), a small non-collagenous ECM protein, to be present. We found that DPT cooperates with other ECM proteins to promote hematopoietic cell adherence in vitro on plastic as well as OP9 stromal cells. We generated constitutional DPT −/− mice that were viable and had no peripheral lympho-hematopoietic abnormalities. The composition of the marrow of wild-type and DPT −/− mice was equivalent in terms of cellularity, CFU-C, LSK (Lineage − , SCA-1 + , KIT + ), and LSK-SLAM (LSK, CD48 − , CD150 + ) frequencies. These data suggest that DPT fosters adherence but is not required for steady-state hematopoiesis in vivo. There are likely overlapping cellular adhesion mechanisms that can compensate to maintain the hematopoietic niche in the absence of DPT.
Landscape-scale conservation design across biotic realms: sequential integration of aquatic and terrestrial landscapes

Systematic conservation planning has been used extensively throughout the world to identify important areas for maintaining biodiversity and functional ecosystems, and is well suited to address large-scale biodiversity conservation challenges of the twenty-first century. Systematic planning is necessary to bridge implementation, scale, and data gaps in a collaborative effort that recognizes competing land uses. Here, we developed a conservation planning process to identify and unify conservation priorities around the central and southern Appalachian Mountains as part of the Appalachian Landscape Conservation Cooperative (App LCC). Through a participatory framework and sequential, cross-realm integration in spatial optimization modeling we highlight lands and waters that together achieve joint conservation goals from LCC partners for the least cost. This process was driven by a synthesis of 26 multi-scaled conservation targets and optimized for simultaneous representation inside the program Marxan to account for roughly 25% of the LCC geography. We identify five conservation design elements covering critical ecological processes and patterns including interconnected regions as well as the broad landscapes between them. Elements were then subjected to a cumulative threats index for possible prioritization. The evaluation of these elements supports multi-scaled decision making within the LCC planning community through a participatory, dynamic, and iterative process.
The cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis) immune deficiency signaling pathway regulates Rickettsia typhi infection.

Rickettsia species are obligate intracellular bacteria with both conserved and lineage-specific strategies for invading and surviving within eukaryotic cells. One variable component of Rickettsia biology involves arthropod vectors: for instance, typhus group rickettsiae are principally vectored by insects (i.e., lice and fleas), whereas spotted fever group rickettsiae are exclusively vectored by ticks. For flea-borne Rickettsia typhi, the etiological agent of murine typhus, research on vertebrate host biology is facilitated using cell lines and animal models. However, due to the lack of any stable flea cell line or a published flea genome sequence, little is known regarding R. typhi biology in flea vectors that, importantly, do not suffer lethality due to R. typhi infection. To address if fleas combat rickettsial infection, we characterized the cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis) innate immune response to R. typhi Initially, we determined that R. typhi infects Drosophila cells and increases antimicrobial peptide (AMP) gene expression, indicating immune pathway activation. While bioinformatics analysis of the C. felis transcriptome identified homologs to all of the Drosophila immune deficiency (IMD) and Toll pathway components, an AMP gene expression profile in Drosophila cells indicated IMD pathway activation upon rickettsial infection. Accordingly, we assessed R. typhi-mediated flea IMD pathway activation in vivo using small interfering RNA (siRNA)-mediated knockdown. Knockdown of Relish and Imd increased R. typhi infection levels, implicating the IMD pathway as a critical regulator of R. typhi burden in C. felis These data suggest that targeting the IMD pathway could minimize the spread of R. typhi, and potentially other human pathogens, vectored by fleas.