cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mechanism of triflimide-catalyzed [3,3]-sigmatropic rearrangements of N-allylhydrazones—predictions and experimental validation

Computational analysis of the triflimide catalyzed [3,3]-sigmatropic rearrangement of N-allylhydrazones, using density functional theory calculations, is reported. Key mechanistic insight was obtained and predictions derived therefrom were confirmed experimentally through temperature dependence studies. The computational results have led to the development of electron deficient N-allylhydrazones capable of reacting under mild reaction conditions. Application of the rearrangement to form a new sp3 stereogenic center is reported for the first time.
Reply to Kaye and Sobel

To the Editor—In their letter [1], Kaye and Sobel express concern regarding the model described in our recent review [2] in which we suggest that recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) may in part be attributable to the ability of uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) to invade and persist within the bladder epithelium. This idea is based on results from numerous studies dating back to 1998 that used bladder cell cultures and mouse models of UTI [3]. In mice, persistent bacterial populations within the bladder are often intracellular, as assessed by gentamicin protection assays and microscopy, and unfazed by antibiotic treatments that effectively sterilize the urine. Ongoing studies in our lab and published work using mice indicate that these intracellular bacteria can reemerge sporadically and grow to high titers within the bladder lumen days to weeks after the cessation of antibiotic treatments (eg, [4–6]). The statement in our review that UPEC can persist intracellularly within the bladders of mice “without any overt clinical symptoms” was not the best choice of words and was perhaps too anthropomorphic [2]. We simply meant that mice could harbor intracellular UPEC reservoirs without displaying any obvious signs of inflammation and in the absence of any detectable bacteria within the urine. Epidemiological studies support the possibility that intracellular bacterial reservoirs within the urinary tract are responsible for many recurrent UTIs in women, but these data may also be explained by the persistence of UPEC reservoirs within local environments outside of the urinary tract (discussed in [7]). Ex vivo assays show that UPEC can invade human urothelial cells in tissue explants from volunteers, and the analysis of shed human urothelial cells collected from the urine of women with UTI symptoms indicates the presence of intracellular E. coli [8, 9]. Together, these sorts of observations suggest that intracellular UPEC reservoirs are likely more than a mouse-specific laboratory phenomenon. However, Kaye and Sobel are correct in noting that the ability of UPEC to persist long-term intracellularly within the human urinary tract has not been established. Determining if intracellular UPEC reservoirs contribute to recurrent UTIs within the human population is a daunting task, plagued by issues of tissue procurement and contamination, possible reinoculation of the bladder by UPEC from niches outside of the urinary tract, and limited means to accurately detect small numbers of bacteria within a relatively enormous tissue. Ultimately, defining the relevance of intracellular UPEC reservoirs to the etiology of recurrent UTIs may only come to light with the development of approaches that can eradicate the reservoirs. We of course agree with Kaye and Sobel that it is premature to alter treatment protocols for recurrent or chronic UTIs outside of controlled clinical investigations based solely on results from mice, but we also feel that it is important to consider alternate rational explanations for recalcitrant UTIs, whether or not they gibe with the traditional view that UPEC act as strictly extracellular pathogens.
Effect of spin state and junction configuration in the conductivity of metal-bisdicarbollide cages

A computational study of the effect of magnetic state and junction geometry in the conductive properties of metal-bisdicarbollide-containing molecules is presented here. Two carborane cages, with a metal atom (Fe or Co) in the middle are connected to electrodes via a sulfur-terminated thiophene ring at each side. In the first study where the metal atom is Fe, a strong dependence of the conductivity on the spin state is observed showing the potential application of this molecule for storage or switching. In the second part of the study, with Co as the central atom, it is shown that at low voltage, as a tip-shaped electrode is pulled away, conductivity increases rather than decreasing. The phenomenon is attributed to the destabilization of the HOMO-2 (first conductive orbital) that moves up in energy towards the Fermi level leading to a lower onset for conduction.
Structural and Electronic Features of β-Ni(OH)2 and β-NiOOH from First Principles

NiOx, long studied for its use in nickel-based secondary batteries, has been the subject of much recent interest due to its efficacy as an oxygen evolution catalyst. Despite extensive study over more than a century, however, many outstanding questions remain surrounding both the structure and the activity of NiOx. Further compounding this ambiguity is the recent finding that much of the previous experimental work on NiOx may have been influenced by incidental doping. Here, we report a computational study of the two simplest members of the NiOx family: β-Ni(OH)2 and β-NiOOH. Using DFT+U calculations, we first identify a β-NiOOH structure with a staggered arrangement of intercalated protons that is more consistent with experimental crystal structures of β-NiOOH than previously proposed geometries. Next, by conducting a thorough study of various initial spin configurations of this β-NiOOH structure, we found that a low-spin d7 Ni3+ configuration is always favored, which suggests a Jahn–Teller distortion, rat...
A Method For Computing Derivatives in MATLAB

An object-oriented method is presented that generates derivatives of functions defined by MATLAB computer codes. The method uses operator overloading together with forward mode automatic differentiation and produces a new MATLAB code that computes the derivatives of the outputs of the original function with respect to the variables of differentiation. The method can be used recursively to generate derivatives of any order that are desired and has the feature that the derivatives of a function are generated simply by evaluating the function on an instance of the class. The method is described briefly and is demonstrated on an example.
Toward A Social Theory of the Built Environment: Frank Lloyd Wright and Broadacre City

Countless commentators have noted that the desire to "improve" upon the natural environment runs deep and long throughout the fabric of western history. As the design professions of architecture, design and physical planning have gained recognition and credibility, we have witnessed the rise of a "built environment" mentality. Though there have been numerous interpretations and nuances, central to this theme of a built environment has been the idea that the environment-the location, arrangement and relationship among people and things-need not be left to happenstance. We begin to see emerging patterns of thought which stress the need to make adjustments, alterations and changes to create a better and more harmonious balance between that which is natural and that which is man-made. The conception of a built environment usually requires a vision of just how such a balance might be struck, effectuated and maintained. This necessitates that a "social theory" of the environment be articulated. As such nearly every philosophy of environmental design is, to a degree, a critique of present social conditions or at least a confrontation with prevailing norms, values and goals. In the preface of his book Environmental Design,l Richard Dober of Harvard puts the matter squarely before us. "The environment can be designed and does not have to be left to adventitious circumstances. This raises the question of how this might be done, by whom, and whether such designs are inimical to the normal processes of a representative government." Thus when Hippodomus of Miletus conceived of the grid as the ideal urban pattern he was creating an image of a "better society" within the bosom of one which repelled him.2 And when Andrew Jackson Downing, founder of American landscape architecture and design, called for the establishment of a new rural environment patterned after the "cottage society" of England, he was articulating his intense opposition to both the values of urbanism and wilderness.3 In more recent times the most consistent American philosopher of the built environment and environmental design has been Frank Lloyd Wright. 11
BREEDING BIOLOGY OF THE MONK PARAKEET

The Monk Parakeet (Myiopsitta monachus) is unique among parrots because it constructs stick nests rather than nesting in holes. This study provides a detailed description of the species' breeding biology and provides evidence that this species might breed cooperatively. Although many parakeet pairs were observed roosting in solitary nests, breeding occurred only in nests within colonies or chambers within compound nests housing other parakeets. The male was responsible for all or most of the nest construction and maintenance. He fed the female during the incubation and early nestling periods, but later in the nestling period both the male and female fed the nestlings. Most breeding attempts involved a male-female pair, but three separate breeding attempts were made by trios (two trios included a female and two males, and the third trio was composed of a male and two females). In the trios, one of the auxiliary bird contributed less to the breeding effort than the primary male and female. The observations of trios support the idea that Monk Parakeets are similar to coop- erative breeders, but the lack of cooperation in nest building indicates that colonial nesting may be a result of other benefits of group living, such as improved predator detection. Received 7 Jan. 1998, accepted I6 Aug. 1998. The social behavior of most parrots has re- mained unstudied, at least partly because of the difficulty of observing birds that are typ- ically far-ranging and often dwell in forest canopies. Compared to most of its relatives, the Monk Parakeet (Myiopsittu monachus) is a relatively tractable species for behavioral study. It is common throughout its range, gen- erally lives in semi-open habitat, and spends a large amount of time in the vicinity of its nests. Monk Parakeets are unusual among par- rots for building large domed nests instead of nesting in holes (Forshaw 1989). These nests are built of twigs and may include several chambers, each occupied by a different pair or group of birds. Nests are often clustered in the same or nearby trees to form colonies, and they are used for roosting as well as for breed- ing (Forshaw 1989). In Bolivia, Monk Para- keets (M. m. Zuchsi) build their stick nests on cliffs rather than in trees (Lanning 1991). The strong tendency to breed colonially, along with delayed breeding, reduced dispersal, and incidental helping led Bucher and coworkers (1991) to suggest that the Monk Parakeet breeding system shares some characteristics with cooperatively breeding species. The large stick nests built by these parrots are the center of much of their daily activity.
THE QUENCHING PROBLEM IN THE STUDY OF STRAIN INDUCED TRANSFORMATION OF LOW CARBON STEEL

The single-pass compression tests at different temperatures were carried out on Gleeble-1500 thermomechanical simulator for SS400 steel quenched immediately after deformation us- ing spurting water and making samples drop into the water automatically. The effects between two quenching methods was compared. The precipitation of proeutectoid ferrite from deformed austenite was investigated through the microstructure analysis for different deformation temperatures and dif- ferent positions of the samples. Combining the measured results of Ar3 after deformation at different temperatures, the upper limited temperature of strain-induced transformation Ar3 was determined, and the mechanism of strain-induced transformation was also discussed. The results indicate that the cooling rate distribution in the samples quenched by spurting water is dramatically un-uniform and the microstructures at different positions are different; the deformation temperature and the cooling rate after deformation affect the ferrite morphology, as increasing cooling rate the ferrite morphology changes from equiaxed to allotriomorphs and Widmanstatten, and the ferrite amount decreases; when the deformation temperature was below 800℃, the equiaxed ferrite existsd along the austenite grain boundaries; the Ar3 is about 60℃ above Ar3 of the un deformed sample.
Influence of pre-fast dietary roughage content on recovery from feed and water deprivation in beef steers.

Sixty steer calves of mixed British breeding averaging 268 kg were randomly assigned to four treatment groups of 15 calves each to determine the influence of pre-fast dietary roughage content on recovery from feed and water deprivation. Three groups were fed diets containing either 84 (HR), 60 (MR) or 35% (LR) roughage at 1.75% of body weight for 3 d. Calves in these three groups were deprived of feed and water for 24 h, limit-refed and watered for 24 h, and deprived of feed and water for 48 h (deprivation). Calves were then fed the MR diet ad libitum for 2 wk. The fourth group of control steers was continuously fed the MR diet throughout the experiment. Realimentation weight gains and feed intakes were not affected by pre-fast diet roughage content. Blood packed cell volume increased (P less than .05) during deprivation. Blood potassium was not affected by deprivation but declined (P less than .05) upon refeeding. Plasma urea-N increased (P less than .05) during deprivation but returned to pre-fast concentrations by d 3 of realimentation. Ruminal volume was not significantly affected by deprivation but increased (P less than .05) by 50 to 100% upon refeeding. Ruminal fluid total volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentrations declined (P less than .05) during deprivation. On d 3 of realimentation, a linear contrast (P less than .05) was observed between total VFA concentrations and the pre-fast diet roughage content.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Foreign Investment in Cuban Real Property: The Case for American Investors

Cuban real estate is hot today. And even though the right to own private property does not exist on the socialist island, prices are rising as never before. Change is in the wind and investors are becoming anxious about opportunities to grab a small piece of Caribbean real estate before tourists come to town. Of course, their hopes are tied to the lifting of the U.S. embargo on Cuba, which has been in place since 1992 but which seems likely to be lifted in the near future. In this article, I will review the current state of the law with respect to buying real property in Cuba as a foreign investor, taking into account not only the embargo but also a number of related U.S. and Cuban laws that may affect the would-be investor. I conclude that only a narrow channel for investment currently exists and that channel is riddled with risks, but that a removal of the embargo may pave the way to solid investment opportunities.
Protein a as an Immunoadsorbent in Radioimmunoassay: Usefulness in a Rapid Assay for Urinary Luteinizing Hormone

A staphylococcal cell wall protein, designated protein A, is known specifically and rapidly to bind to immunoglobulin G. We have utilized this protein as an immunoadsorbent to separate antigen-antibody complexes from free antigen in a rapid 6-hour radioimmunoassay for urinary human luteinizing hormone (hLH). We have further documented the efficacy of this system and the optimal conditions for this assay. The ability of this assay to provide rapid and reliable measurements of hLH in timed urinary specimens provides a useful tool for determination of the preovulatory LH surge and prediction of the time of ovulation in women.
Health Issues in Hispanic/Latino Youth

This review focuses on obesity, asthma and mental health functioning as salient health issues affecting Hispanic youth. Burden of these conditions and consequences for adult health are also discussed. Hispanic youth are affected by obesity at an early age; the prevalence of obesity among Hispanic children 6-11 years old is twice as high as the prevalence for non-Hispanic White children of the same age, but among 2-5 years old is 4 times higher. Asthma disproportionally affects certain Hispanic groups, notably children of Puerto Rican ancestry, and the comorbidity of asthma and obesity is an emerging health issue. Another area of concern is the scant data on mental health functioning among Hispanic youth. Research on Hispanic youth mental health have reported high rates of depressive symptomatology and high rates of alcohol use among Hispanic adolescents but despite these findings, they have inadequate access to mental health services. This review highlights the need for better data to gain a better understanding of the health status of Hispanic youth and help develop preventive programs that addresses the need of this population. Improving access to health services, in particular mental health services, is also a crucial aspect.
Petty States: Fall of Granada

From the ruins of the Umayyad caliphate there emerged an apparently fortuitous conglomeration of petty states which spent themselves in fratricidal quarrels and, after falling in part a prey to two Moroccan Berber dynasties, succumbed one after the other to the rising Christian power of the north. In the first half of the eleventh century no less than twenty such short-lived states arose in as many towns or provinces under chieftains and kinglets called by the Arabs mulūk al-ṭawā’if (Sp. reyes de taifas, party kings).
Functional and Urodynamic Characteristics of an Ileal Neobladder

AbstractWe examined the urodynamic characteristics and symptoms of 28 patients who had undergone the Stanford pouch bladder substitution following cystoprostatectomy. Urodynamics were obtained a mean of 18 months (range 6 to 43) after construction of the neobladder. Mean cystometric capacity was 699cc (range 366 to 1,370). All patients voided by the Valsalva maneuver and achieved good peak flow rates (mean 19cc per second). Of the patients 23 emptied to near completion with a mean post-void residual of 34cc, while 5 had post-void residuals of greater than 150cc (mean 630cc). The neobladders demonstrated good compliance for the storage of urine, with a mean basal pressure of less than 15cm. water at volumes of less than 500cc at which most bladders function, and of 22.4cm. water (range 1 to 72) at 100% capacity. Phasic neobladder contractions were present during filling cystometrography. While the number increased at higher neobladder volumes, the mean length and mean pressure did not. The mean pressure of...
Analysis of a novel converter topology for switched reluctance machine drives

A novel converter topology for SRM drives is proposed and analyzed in the paper. The topology is very flexible and can work well in all conditions including low and high speeds in monitoring and generating modes. Furthermore, the converter is compact since the separate transistor switches and diodes are replaced with off-the-self integrated power modules, greatly reducing the connection inductance and EMI effects. In addition, the limitation of the proposed converter topology is discussed. Experimental investigation is conducted and the results are provided to verify the proposed converter.
The Impact of Yeast Genomics on Brewing

Beer is an agricultural product that has been brewed since the dawn of civilization. Several species and countless strains of yeast are employed to ferment beer but little has been known regarding the differences and origins of these yeast strains as many were serially passaged over many years in breweries. Recently, the science of genomics-the ability to determine, analyze and compare the sequences of every DNA base pair that defines an organism-has promoted investigation of these genome differences among domesticated and wild populations of brewer’s and related yeast. This is allowing a detailed comparison of strains from different fermentations and beer styles as well as comparisons to wild populations. It has also revealed the potential origins of several of these important commercial strains. New genetic analysis designed to correlate sequence with phenotype are being attempted and new genetically modified yeasts are on the horizon. The modern era of brewing is witnessing the merging of these two very different disciplines – one from serious academic science and the other from the beverage production industry. This review discusses the current state of knowledge regarding the genomics of brewer’s yeast and the impact such investigations may have on the future of the brewing industry.
Immunogenicity of the Tetravalent Protein-Conjugated Meningococcal Vaccine in Recipients of Related and Unrelated Allogeneic Hematopoietic Cell Transplants (HCT)

Abstract Following the successful introduction of the highly immunogenic protein-conjugated Haemophilus influenza and pneumococcal vaccines, Neisseria meningitidis has become the most common cause of bacterial meningitis in the US. Each year, invasive disease (meningitis, sepsis, pneumonia) due to this organism occurs in approximately 500, 000 persons world-wide, including 1400–2800 in the US. Despite rapid institution of appropriate antibiotics, 10%–14% of affected patients die and significant morbidity occurs in up to 20% of survivors. In 2005, the quadrivalent (A, C, Y, W-135) protein conjugated polysaccharide vaccine (MCV4) was approved in the US and recommended for children 11–12 years of age, previously unimmunized adolescents entering college, military recruits, patients with acquired or functional asplenia, and all travelers to hyperendemic or epidemic areas such as sub-Sahara Africa. Improved disease-free survival following HCT has resulted in an increasing number of survivors entering college and traveling abroad. Due to the lack of information on the immunogenicity of this vaccine in transplant survivors, we assessed the responses of 41 patients immunized with MCV4 following an HLA matched related (n=16), mis-matched related (n=2) or unrelated (n=23) HCT. The median age at HCT and at vaccination was 14 years and 18 years, respectively. Patients were transplanted for acute or chronic leukemia (n=28), immunodeficiency disease (n=4), hemoglobinopathy (n=4), HLH (n=1), NHL (n=1), MDS or aplastic anemia (n=3). Fifty percent of patients received an unmodified HCT and four patients were splenectomized prior to vaccination. MCV4 was administered at a median (range) of 3.2 (0.7–12.5) years following transplant. Ninety percent of patients had undetectable titers to all 4 serotypes prior to immunization. Antibody responses were measured by ELISA. Positive response was defined as > 4 ug/ml (serotype A), >5 ug/ml (serotype C), >4 ug/ml (serotype Y), and >3 ug/ml for serotype W-135. Sixty-one percent of patients developed an antibody response to 31 vaccine serotypes, although only 13 developed positive titers to all 4 serotypes. Response to serotypes A, C, Y, and W-135 was observed in 20, 13, 18, and 13 patients, respectively. Responses were significantly poorer in recipients of an unrelated HCT. Of the 7 non-responders who received a second MCV4, 3 of 4 evaluated patients developed titers to all 4 serotypes. This data suggests that although HCT recipients respond to MCV4, the response is sub-optimal, that pre and post vaccine titers should be assessed to ensure adequate protection, and that a booster immunization should be explored in this patient population.
Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding

The cornerstone of massive upper gastrointestinal bleeding management begins with resuscitation and volume replacement. The various therapeutic modalities are tailored to the diagnosis. The most common etiologies are discussed herein as well as the modern operative management to control bleeding and provide definitive treatment.
Unique Central Carbon Metabolic Pathways and Novel Enzymes in Phototrophic Bacteria Revealed by Integrative Genomics, 13C-based Metabolomics and Fluxomics

Photosynthesis is the process to convert solar energy to biomass and biofuels, which are the only major solar energy storage means on Earth. To satisfy the increased demand for sustainable energy sources, it is essential to understand the process of solar energy storage, that is, the carbon metabolism in photosynthetic organisms. It has been well-recognized that one bottleneck of photosynthesis is carbon assimilation. In this report, we summarize our recent studies on the carbon metabolism pathways of several types of photosynthetic bacteria, including aerobic anoxygenic phototrophic proteobacteria, green sulfur bacteria, heliobacteria and cyanobacteria, using physiological studies, transcriptomics, enzyme assays, 13C-based metabolomics and fluxomics. Our studies have revealed several unique and/or significant central carbon metabolic pathways and novel enzymes that operate in these phototrophs, quantified CO2 assimilation pathways operative during mixotrophic cultivation conditions, and also suggested evolutionary links between photosynthetic and non-photosynthetic organisms.
Typical Toddlers' Participation in "Just-in-Time" Programming of Vocabulary for Visual Scene Display Augmentative and Alternative Communication Apps on Mobile Technology: A Descriptive Study.

Purpose Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) promotes communicative participation and language development for young children with complex communication needs. However, the motor, lingu...
Harmonic Simulation Study of Simultaneous Nanoparticle Size and Viscosity Differentiation

The signal harmonics of magnetic nanoparticles in solution under an ac magnetic field are highly sensitive to their physical properties and the surrounding environment. Here, we use Monte Carlo simulations of coupled stochastic Langevin equations to demonstrate a possible technique that can simultaneously characterize different particle sizes and viscous environments. When combined with a constant bias field, the relative amplitudes of the harmonics change significantly, and are shown to be uniquely sensitive to changes in particle size and viscosity. Spectroscopic experiments verify the size-dependent harmonic behavior. With this technique, particles with sizes differing by only ~1-2 nm in diameter can theoretically be identified, while separately quantifying changes in viscosity. This concurrent characterization could be implemented in magnetic particle imaging to create a colorized image.
Technical Note: Is Corrosion a Threat to the Strength of the Taper Connection in Femoral Components of Total Hip Replacements?

Taper corrosion has been suggested as a possible contributor to in vivo disassociation of modular connections in total hip arthroplasty (THA) systems, but this relationship has not been explored ex...
Trophic and Tropic Dynamics: An Ecological Perspective of Tropes

Keeling, a rhetorical scholar, and Prairie, a marine ecologist, investigate the entanglement of two foundational concepts of their requisite fields that share etymological features: trope (τροπη), to turn, and trophe (τροφη), to nourish. They discuss the ways that trophic dynamics in ecology, including symbiotic relationships, demonstrate troping’s interactive and polymorphic qualities. They engage troping as a social, biological, and physical activity that composes ecosystems with and without humans. This project historicizes the interdisciplinary emergence of rhetoric and ecology—and trope and trophe—in the mythopoeic tradition of archaic Greece, while also encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration to address problematic distillations of tropes in academic research and public decision making. An ecological perspective of rhetoric contends that tropes are dynamic and polymorphic modes of environmental expression.
Deep learning feature extraction for target recognition and classification in underwater sonar images

This paper presents an automatic target recognition (ATR) approach for sonar onboard unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs). In this approach, target features are extracted by a convolutional neural network (CNN) operating on sonar images, and then classified by a support vector machine (SMV) that is trained based on manually labeled data. The proposed approach is tested on a set of sonar images obtained by a UUV equipped with side-scan sonar. Automatic target recognition is achieved through the use of matched filters, while target classification is achieved with the trained SVM classifier based on features extracted by the CNN. The results show that deep learning feature extraction provide better performance compared to using other feature extraction techniques such as histogram of oriented gradients (HOG) and local binary pattern (LBP). By processing images autonomously, the proposed approach can be combined with onboard planning and control systems to develop autonomous UUVs able to search for underwater targets without human intervention.
MESA models of the evolutionary state of the interacting binary epsilon Aurigae

Using MESA code (Modules for Experiments in Stellar Astrophysics, version 9575), an evaluation was made of the evolutionary state of the epsilon Aurigae binary system (HD 31964, F0Iap + disk). We sought to satisfy several observational constraints: 1) requiring evolutionary tracks to pass close to the current temperature and luminosity of the primary star; 2) obtaining a period near the observed value of 27.1 years; 3) matching a mass function of 3.0; 4) concurrent Roche lobe overflow and mass transfer; 5) an isotopic ratio 12 C/ 13 C = 5 and, (6) matching the interferometrically determined angular diameter. A MESA model starting with binary masses of 9.85 + 4.5 Msun , with a 100 day initial period, produces a 1.2 + 10.6 Msun result having a 547 day period, and a single digit 12 C/ 13 C ratio. These values were reached near an age of 20 Myr, when the donor star comes close to the observed luminosity and temperature for epsilon Aurigae A, as a post-RGB/pre-AGB star. Contemporaneously, the accretor then appears as an upper main sequence, early B-type star. This benchmark model can provide a basis for further exploration of this interacting binary, and other long period binary stars.
Single-shot transient absorption spectroscopy of an organic film

We report single-shot transient absorption (SSTA) measurements of an organic film of 3,3’-Diethyloxatricarbocyanine iodide (DOTCI). In SSTA, the pump-probe time delay is spatially encoded by using a tilted pump pulse. Translation of the sample during SSTA measurements averages over any spatial heterogeneity in the film. We demonstrate that exciton dynamics measured with the single-shot technique agrees with traditional transient absorption measurements of the same film. A signal-to-noise ratio of ~40 is achieved in 10 s. The ability to measure exciton dynamics in organic films will enable future SSTA measurements of exciton dynamics during the molecular aggregation events that result in film formation.
Inverse Mappings and Differential Equations

Both the inverse mapping theorem and the existence theorem for differential equations will be based on a basic and simple lemma in complete metric spaces.
Thirty-cycle temperature optimization of a closed-cycle capillary PCR machine.

The performance of a novel thermal cycler has been characterized in a 30-cycle PCR. The device consists of a microcapillary equipped with bidirectional pressure-driven flow and in situ optical position sensors. A 1-microL droplet of reaction mixture moves between three heat zones in a 1-mm i.d., oil-filled capillary using a multi-element scattered light detector and active feedback. The design permits time and number of cycles to be changed without hardware modification, unlike other flow-in-capillary PCR systems. Temperature optimization has been performed on the three PCR heat steps. The optimal denaturation temperature is 94 degrees C-96 degrees C, which is identical to commercial machines. The optimal extension temperature of 62 degrees C-66 degrees C is lower than reported for Taq DNA polymerase (70 degrees C-80 degrees C) because of the high enzyme concentration and/or the absence of detergent in the PCR mixture. The optimal annealing temperature seems to be the same as the optimal extension temperature. This is because extension occurs when the sample is inside of the annealing heat zone. Annealing takes place as the sample travels between heat zones. Device speed (23 minfor 30 cycles without time optimization) is competitive with other rapid PCR designs for efficiencies comparable to a commercial machine.
Economic sustainability of immune-checkpoint inhibitors: the looming threat.

Immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are transforming oncology, but the mounting costs of cancer care necessitate concerns regarding economic sustainability. Here, several strategies that clinicians could use to exercise economically prudent administration of ICIs are discussed. These include better appraisal of the cost-effectiveness literature, judicious patient selection, separating statistical from clinical significance, and careful patient counselling.
Improved sensitivity and temporal resolution in perfusion FMRI using velocity selective inversion ASL.

Purpose This work aims to investigate the utility of velocity selective inversion pulses for perfusion weighted functional MRI. Methods Tracer kinetic properties of velocity selective inversion (VSI) pulses as an input function for an arterial spin labeling (ASL) experiment were characterized in a group of healthy participants. Numerical simulations were conducted to search for a robust set of timing parameters for FMRI time series acquisition with maximal signal to noise ratio efficiency. The performance of three VSI pulse sequences with different timing parameters was compared with a pseudocontinuous ASL sequence in a simple FMRI experiment conducted on healthy participants. Results The fit to the tracer kinetic model yielded arterial CBV of 1.24% ± 0.52% and 0.45 ± 0.11% and perfusion rates of 60.8 ± 32.3 and 34.4 ± 5.4 mL/min/100 g for gray and white matter, respectively. Bolus arrival times were estimated as 75.7 ± 21 ms and 349 ± 78 ms for gray and white matter, respectively. The FMRI experiments showed that VSI pulses yield comparable sensitivity to PCASL with similar timing parameters (TR = 4 s). However, VSI pulses could be used at a faster acquisition speed (TR = 3 s) and were more sensitive to neuronal activity than PCASL pulses, as evidenced by the 31% higher Z scores obtained on average in the active regions. Conclusion VSI pulses can be very beneficial for perfusion weighted functional MRI because of their tracer kinetic characteristics, which allow a faster acquisition rate while maintaining an efficient labeling input function.
Tibial Nerve and Sacral Neuromodulation in the Multiple Sclerosis Patient with Voiding Dysfunction

Storage and voiding dysfunction are highly prevalent in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Many MS patients fail behavioral modifications and oral medications. Neuromodulation in the form of posterior tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS) and sacral neuromodulation (SNM) is a potential treatment for this group of patients. We review contemporary and impactful literature regarding neuromodulation in the MS patient with lower urinary tract dysfunction. Large-scale randomized trials regarding the use of neuromodulation in the treatment neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction are limited. Despite this, several small prospective studies demonstrate durable responses to neuromodulation in the MS patient. Posterior tibial nerve trials reveal improvements in urodynamic parameters, incontinence episodes, post-void residual volumes, and quality of life metrics. Additionally, SNM in the MS patient results in improvements in daytime and nighttime frequency, urgency symptom, and quality of life. Currently, the frequent need for routine spinal MRI scans precludes the use of SNM. Limited research suggests that some MRI use may be safe, but investigation in this area is ongoing. Tibial and sacral neuromodulation appear safe and offer significant improvements in lower urinary tract symptoms and quality of life in MS patients who have failed oral medications and behavioral modifications. Though randomized controlled trials are limited in this area, neuromodulation offers great promise to this often refractory and complex patient population. Future studies are warranted and necessary to better evaluate the efficacy of these treatment options.
Towards integrative anthropology again and again: disorderly becomings of a (biological) anthropologist

Any study of the world, including that of the human, is a move toward and into complexity not away from it. Human action and perception are as evolutionarily relevant as are human genes, bones, and...
Using Software’s and Technology in Solving Mathematics Problem to Motivate and Accelerate the Learning Process

The purpose of this study was to investigate the use of software and technology in solving mathematics problem for speed-up the learning process. In this research, as a case study we investigated the dynamic properties that lead to transformations into chaos, where the point of resistance and the points of proximity was studied. We discussed the solving of the problem by applying the Matlab software for the case study. It demonstrated the areas of contraction and expansion of the map as well as the points of attracting and repelling. The results showed that the use of information and communication technology in student’s mathematical reasoning skill is effective. The goal of education is to transform a student into a person with high decision-making power and creative solving problems and has the power of reasoning. Citizenship education that can adapt to the complexity of the 21st century.
Ectopic Papillary Carcinoma in the Midline Neck Accompanied by a Benign Thyroid Gland

Ectopic thyroid tissue can deposit anywhere in the body. There are several cases reporting papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) arising from ectopic tissues; however, these cases largely presented with primary PTC within the native thyroid gland as well. Alternatively, some cases report of PTC found solely in an ectopic thyroglossal duct cyst, but reports of isolated malignancy in other types of ectopic thyroid tissue with normal native tissue are sparse throughout the literature. Here, we present an unusual case of PTC in the midline anterior neck that does not appear to be consistent with a thyroglossal duct cyst, accompanied by a completely benign native thyroid gland, of which only few cases have been reported.
Novel Oral Anticoagulants in Patients with Continuous Flow Left Ventricular Assist Devices

Purpose The gold standard for anticoagulation in patients with continuous flow left ventricular assist device (CF-LVADs) is warfarin. However, many patients fail warfarin therapy due to thromboembolic and bleeding events. Warfarin requires regular monitoring and dosage adjustments, and is associated with significant patient time outside recommended therapeutic INR range. Novel oral anticoagulation (NOAC) has been shown to be non-inferior compared to warfarin in stroke prevention with less intracranial hemorrhage in patients with atrial fibrillation. In this study, we sought to evaluate the safety and efficacy of NOACs in patients with CF-LVADs after failed warfarin therapy. Methods Patients who underwent CF-LVAD insertion between 2008 and 2018 were identified in a single-center database. 7 patients with either HeartMate II or HeartWare were switched from warfarin to a NOAC, either apixaban or rivaroxaban, were included. Occurrence of stroke, non-CNS embolism, pump thrombosis, and major GI bleeding or intracranial hemorrhage on warfarin and NOAC were evaluated. Results 5 of 7 patients were male, with an average BMI of 30. Common comorbidities were hypertension (100%), diabetes mellitus (57%) and ischemic cardiomyopathy (57%). There were a total of 3968 patient days on warfarin and 1459 patient days on a NOAC. Patients on warfarin therapy spent an average time of 30% within a therapeutic INR range. The rates of complications under warfarin versus NOAC therapy were: strokes 0.019 vs. 0 /patient-year, non-CNS embolism 0.019 vs. 0 /patient-year, pump thrombosis 0.01 vs. 0 /patient-year, major GI bleeding 0.02 vs. 0.07 /patient-year, and intracranial hemorrhage 0.019 vs. 0 /patient-year.(Table 1). Conclusion Increased complication rates and poor time in therapeutic INR range were present in patients receiving warfarin therapy after CF-LVAD insertion. NOAC therapy with apixaban or rivaroxaban may be a viable alternative. However, large prospective studies are necessary to confirm these results.
Frequency but not phase specific modulation of binocular rivalry with transcranial alternating current stimulation

Recent transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) literature suggests that tACS effects can in principle be both frequency and phase specific. In a series of three experiments using 69 participants used binocular rivalry percepts as a read-out for the effects of phase-synchronized tACS stimulation. To test for phase specificity, with frequency the same in each eye, we visually stimulated each eye with 3Hz, with stimuli in each eye presented in temporal in antiphase. The frequency-specific paradigm visually stimulated the right eye with 3Hz, and the left eye with 5Hz. Each experiment was accompanied by 3Hz tACS, whose phase with respect to the visual stimulus was varied by 0{degrees}, 90{degrees}, 180{degrees}, or 270{degrees} in relation to the right eye stimulus. A baseline no-tACS block preceded the stimulation blocks and two more followed, immediately and ten minutes after. Individual blocks lasted 4 minutes. Additionally, a no-tACS control experiment identical to the 3 Hz anti-phase visual stimuli setup was conducted, keeping all parameters the same but eliminating tACS. During stimulation, the 3 Hz anti-phase visual stimuli setup slowed the rate of rivalry in both eyes. Conversely, the 3Hz-right, 5Hz-left setup slowed the right (targeted) eye significantly while leaving the left (unstimulated) eye unchanged. In both experiments, durations returned to baseline after 10 minutes. Our results are consistent with the frequency-specific model of tACS, and with the Leveltian hypothesis that stimulation weakens the stimulated eye, as the right eye got weaker when it was directly targeted, and both eyes got weaker when targeted in antiphase. tACS does not appear to preferentially modulating percept durations in one phase more than in another.
Graph-based mining of in-the-wild, fine-grained, semantic code change patterns

Prior research exploited the repetitiveness of code changes to enable several tasks such as code completion, bug-fix recommendation, library adaption, etc. These and other novel applications require accurate detection of semantic changes, but the state-of-the-art methods are limited to algorithms that detect specific kinds of changes at the syntactic level. Existing algorithms relying on syntactic similarity have lower accuracy, and cannot effectively detect semantic change patterns. We introduce a novel graph-based mining approach, CPatMiner, to detect previously unknown repetitive changes in the wild, by mining fine-grained semantic code change patterns from a large number of repositories. To overcome unique challenges such as detecting meaningful change patterns and scaling to large repositories, we rely on fine-grained change graphs to capture program dependencies. We evaluate CPatMiner by mining change patterns in a diverse corpus of 5,000+ open-source projects from GitHub across a population of 170,000+ developers. We use three complementary methods. First, we sent the mined patterns to 108 open-source developers. We found that 70% of respondents recognized those patterns as their meaningful frequent changes. Moreover, 79% of respondents even named the patterns, and 44% wanted future IDEs to automate such repetitive changes. We found that the mined change patterns belong to various development activities: adaptive (9%), perfective (20%), corrective (35%) and preventive (36%, including refactorings). Second, we compared our tool with the state-of-the-art, AST-based technique, and reported that it detects 2.1x more meaningful patterns. Third, we use CPatMiner to search for patterns in a corpus of 88 GitHub projects with longer histories consisting of 164M SLOCs. It constructed 322K fine-grained change graphs containing 3M nodes, and detected 17K instances of change patterns from which we provide unique insights on the practice of change patterns among individuals and teams. We found that a large percentage (75%) of the change patterns from individual developers are commonly shared with others, and this holds true for teams. Moreover, we found that the patterns are not intermittent but spread widely over time. Thus, we call for a community-based change pattern database to provide important resources in novel applications.
Genetic architecture of early life history traits for channel catfish, Ictalurus punctatus ♀ × blue catfish, I. furcatus ♂ hybrid production

Hybrid catfish, the progeny of channel catfish, Ictalurus punctatus, females × blue catfish, I. furcatus, males are in high demand by the aquaculture industry due to their superiority for pond culture. Unfortunately, fry production is a limiting factor due to lack of natural hybridization between the species and the necessity to sacrifice males for artificial fertilization. In this study, we used a quantitative genetic breeding design to assess genetic, environmental, and genotype by environment interactions to detail the genetic architecture of fitness during the “critical” early life history (ELH) stages. Males and females were crossed using a full-factorial design, creating 20 unique families. Offspring from each family were split into 2 temperature-controlled environments based on conditions that mimic early (26.6 °C) and late (32.2 °C) seasonal temperatures. Embryonic survival, hatch success, larval morphology, and deformities were quantified at hatch, mid-yolk sac transition, and swim-up stages of early development. Variation in early performance traits (calculated as variance components, VC) were partitioned to maternal/paternal effects as well as parental × environmental interactions, analyzed across and within temperatures. Embryonic survival ranged from 45 to 93% by 120°-hours post-fertilization and was not impacted by temperature. Maternal effects were responsible for large amounts of variation (VC = 51%), and paternal effects also became apparent during later stages of embryonic development but in smaller quantities (VC = ~7%). Temperature significantly impacted hatch success, in which hatch decreased at 32.2 °C (from 40% to 32%). Therefore, we conclude that temperatures at the start of the spawning season yield higher hatch success. Maternal effects were highly significant (VC = 65%), and there were also significant paternal effects (VC = 12%) with wide family variation (ranging from 14 to 71%). The deformity rate increased from 3.6% at 26.6 °C to 6.0% at 32.2 °C, but variation was driven more by maternal effects rather than temperature. For morphology, fry reared at 32.2 °C had smaller body sizes at each developmental stage. Maternal variation across morphology traits ranged widely from 9 to 80% and was highest for maternal yolk. Paternal effects/interactions ranged from to 0–29%. Genetic × environmental interactions were also observed for morphology traits since values for VCs differed within each temperature. This information showed the importance of environmental effects, parentage, and their associated interactions, which by isolating indicators of male/female quality, can be used to develop parameters for broodstock selection. Results can also be applied to improve incubation conditions for hybrid catfish during the crucial ELH stages.