cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Image matting from a physical perspective

Image and video matting is used to extract objects from their original backgrounds in order to place them on a different background. The traditional matting model is a combination of foreground and background colors, i.e., I = αF + (1 − α)B. Even with good cameras, limited depth-of-focus means that often both the object and background are blurred at the boundaries. Does the matting model still apply? To understand this and other cases better, we investigate image matting from a physical perspective. We start with 3D objects and examine the mechanism of image matting due to geometrical defocus. We then derive a general matting model using radiometry and geometric optics. The model accounts for arbitrary surface shapes, defocus, transparency, and directional radiance. Under certain conditions, the physical framework subsumes the traditional matting equation. The new formulation reveals a fundamental link between parameter α and object depth, and this establishes a framework for designing new matting algorithms.
Recognition of human body motion using phase space constraints

A new method for representing and recognizing human body movements is presented. The basic idea is to identify sets of constraints that are diagnostic of a movement: expressed using body-centered coordinates such as joint angles and in force only during a particular movement. Assuming the availability of Cartesian tracking data, we develop techniques for a representation of movements defined by space curves in subspaces of a "phase space." The phase space has axes of joint angles and torso location and attitude, and the axes of the subspaces are subsets of the axes of the phase space. Using this representation we develop a system for learning new movements from ground truth data by searching for constraints. We then use the learned representation for recognizing movements in unsegmented data. We train and test the system on nine fundamental steps from classical ballet performed by two dancers; the system accurately recognizes the movements in the unsegmented stream of motion. >
Dynamic Compression of an Interpenetrating Phase Composite (IPC) Foam: Measurements and Finite Element Modeling

Dynamic compression response of Syntactic Foam (SF)–aluminum foam Interpenetrating Phase Composites (IPC) is measured. By infusing uncured syntactic foam (epoxy filled with hollow microballoons) into an open-cell aluminum network, a 3D interpenetrating structure is obtained. The uniaxial compression responses are measured at ~1500 /sec using a split Hopkinson pressure bar set up. The effect of volume fraction of microballoons on the compression response of IPC is examined in terms of yield stress, plateau stress and energy absorption. The response of IPC samples are also compared with those made using syntactic foam alone. For all volume fractions of microballoons, the IPC samples have better compression characteristics when compared to the corresponding syntactic foam samples. The failure modes of SF and IPC foams are examined both optically (using high-speed photography) and microscopically. The measured dynamic responses of SF are used in a finite element model based on a Kelvin cell representation of the IPC structure. Using infinite elements and measured particle velocity histories as input boundary conditions, the compression response of IPC foams have been successfully captured
Photoinduced Ligand Exchange and Covalent DNA Binding by Two New Dirhodium Bis-Amidato Complexes

Two new dirhodium complexes, the head-to-tail (H,T) and head-to-head (H,H) isomers of cis-[Rh2(HNOCCH3)2(CH3CN)6]2+, were synthesized, separated, and characterized following the reaction of Rh2(HNOCCH3)4 with trimethyloxonium tetrafluoroborate in CH3CN. The products were characterized by 1H NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, elemental analysis, and single crystal X-ray diffraction. Each bis-amidato isomer has a total of six CH3CN ligands, two along the internuclear Rh–Rh axis, CH3CNax, two in equatorial positions trans to the oxygen atoms of the bridging amidato groups, CH3CNeqO, and two in equatorial positions trans to the amidato nitrogen atoms, CH3CNeqN. When aqueous solutions of the complexes are irradiated with low energy light (λirr ≥ 495 nm, 60 min), both types of CH3CNeq ligands undergo efficient ligand exchange with solvent H2O molecules to form monoaqua, followed by bis-aqua, adducts, releasing two CH3CNeq ligands in the process. The quantum yields, Φ400nm, for the H,T and H,H isomers to form ...
Finding a maximum matching in a circular-arc graph

Abstract We present an O(n log n) algorithm for finding a maximum matching in a circular-arc graph. The best known algorithm for the same problem in general graphs takes O(√|V| |E|) time.
Transforming Growth Factor-β and Inflammation in Vascular (Type IV) Ehlers–Danlos Syndrome

Background— Vascular Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (VEDS) causes reduced life expectancy because of arterial dissections/rupture and hollow organ rupture. Although the causative gene, COL3A1 , was identified >20 years ago, there has been limited progress in understanding the disease mechanisms or identifying treatments. Methods and Results— We studied inflammatory and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling biomarkers in plasma and from dermal fibroblasts from patients with VEDS. Analyses were done in terms of clinical disease severity, genotype–phenotype correlations, and body composition and fat deposition alterations. VEDS subjects had increased circulating TGF-β1, TGF-β2, monocyte chemotactic protein-1, C-reactive protein, intercellular adhesion molecule-1, vascular cell adhesion molecule-1, and leptin and decreased interleukin-8 versus controls. VEDS dermal fibroblasts secreted more TGF-β2, whereas downstream canonical/noncanonical TGF-β signaling was not different. Patients with COL3A1 exon skipping mutations had higher plasma intercellular adhesion molecule-1 and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1, and VEDS probands had abnormally high plasma C-reactive protein versus affected patients identified through family members before any disease manifestations. Patients with VEDS had higher mean platelet volumes, suggesting increased platelet turnover because of ongoing vascular damage, as well as increased regional truncal adiposity. Conclusions— These findings suggest that VEDS is a systemic disease with a major inflammatory component. C-reactive protein is linked to disease state and may be a disease activity marker. No changes in downstream TGF-β signaling and increased platelet turnover suggest that chronic vascular damage may partially explain increased plasma TGF-β1. Finally, we found a novel role for dysregulated TGF-β2, as well as adipocyte dysfunction, as demonstrated through reduced interleukin-8 and elevated leptin in VEDS.
CAN SKINNER TELL A LIE? NOTES ON THE EPISTEMOLOGICAL NIHILISM OF B. F. SKINNER

L'A. montre qu'a l'interieur du systeme behavioriste de B. F. Skinner, il est impossible de dire si une chose est vraie ou fausse. En depit de l'affirmation de ce dernier il n'est pas possible de traduire certaines propositions du langage ordinaire en langage skinnerien. La position de Skinner conduit a un nihilisme epistemologique et axiologique.
CULTURAL POLITICS IN THE POST-COLONY: MUSIC, NATIONALISM AND STATISM IN MALI, 1964-75

This article examines the shifting experience of national belonging and state patronage at a crucial juncture in Mali’s post-colonial history, the ten-year period that marked the end of the country’s First Republic (1960–8) and the beginning of its Second Republic (1968–91). My focus is on the contested politics of culture that characterized this period, elucidated through the experiences and expressions of two popular dance bands, Las Maravillas de Mali and Les Ambassadeurs du Motel. By following the post-colonial careers of Las Maravillas and Les Ambassadeurs I explore social and musical encounters with national community and state authority from which broader questions of political sovereignty and accountability emerge. Resume: Cet article examine l’experience changeante d’appartenance nationale et de patronage d’Etat a un moment crucial de l’histoire postcoloniale du Mali, a savoir la decennie qui marqua la fin de la premiere Republique du pays (1960–1968) et le debut de sa seconde (1968–1991). Il s’interesse a la politique de culture contestee qui a caracterise cette periode, a travers les experiences et les expressions de deux groupes de danse populaire, Las Maravillas de Mali et Les Ambassadeurs du Motel. En suivant les carrieres postcoloniales de Las Maravillas et des Ambassadeurs, l’article examine les demeles sociaux et musicaux avec la communaute nationale et l’autorite de l’Etat, dont emergent des questions plus larges de souverainete et de responsabilite politiques.
Blast response simulation of an elastic structure: Evaluation of the fluid–structure interaction effect

Blast pressure wave interaction with an elastic structure is investigated using a numerical analysis approach, which considers fluid-structure interaction (FSI) within an Arbitrary Lagrange Euler (ALE) framework. Approximate numerical procedures for solving the Riemann problem associated with the shock are implemented within the Godunov finite volume scheme for the fluid domain. The structural displacement predicted by ignoring FSI is larger than the corresponding displacement considering FSI. The influence of the structural and blast pressure wave parameters on the importance of FSI is studied using an analysis of variables. Two non-dimensional parameters corresponding to the ratios of blast duration to the time period of the structure and the velocity of the structure to the particle velocity of the incident blast pressure wave are identified. It is shown that for a given blast pressure wave, the error in the maximum displacement predicted by ignoring FSI effect during structural motion is directly proportional to the ratio of the structure velocity to the particle velocity of the incident blast pressure wave. There is a continuous exchange of energy between the structure and air during the structural motion, which is significant when the structural velocity is significant compared to the particle velocity of incident blast pressure wave. FSI effect become insignificant when the ratio of velocities starts approaching zero.
Computation of electron repulsion integrals using the Rys quadrature method

Following an earlier proposal to evaluate electron repulsion integrals over Gaussian basis functions by a numerical quadrature based on a set of orthogonal polynomials (Rys polynomials), a computational procedure is outlined for efficient evaluation of the two-dimensional integrals Ix, Iy, and Iz. Compact recurrence formulas for the integrals make the method particularly fitted to handle high-angular-momentum basis functions. The technique has been implemented in the HONDO molecular orbital program.
Contexto histórico y cultural en el estudio de la enfermedad mental: Perspectivas latinoamericanas

Resumen La historia de la psiquiatria latinoamericana incorpora realidades culturales y epistemologicas que, en buena medida, han contribuido a la forja de una identidad de nuestra disciplina, aun sujeta sin embargo, al influjo de factores diversos, mas aun en esta etapa de globalizacion y gigantescos cambios tecnologicos. El articulo examina las caracteristicas del entorno latinoamericano y expone una secuencia historica en la conceptualizacion de enfermedad mental, su diagnostico y manejo desde la era precolombina hasta los albores del presente siglo. Se analizan y discuten las caracteristicas distintivas de la identidad actual de la psiquiatria latinoamericana, los factores en juego para su busqueda y su enunciado pleno, proceso complejo al que sin embargo debe aspirarse con tenacidad, objetividad y realismo.
Spontaneous breakdown of chiralSUN×SUN

We consider two modes of spontaneous breakdown of chiralSUN×SUN: i)SUN×SUN→SUN and ii)SUN×SUN→SUN−1×SUN−1×U1. The models consists of aN-plet of fermion fields. The Goldstone bosons appear as scalar or pseudoscalar fermion-antifermion bound states. The dynamically rearranged symmetry is obtained for both modes of breaking; for mode ii) it is found that the generators of the asymptotic symmetry do not form a closed algebra. We also derive typical low-energy theorems, and discuss the different implications of the two modes of breaking.
Estimation of convective entrainment properties from a cloud-resolving model simulation during TWP-ICE

The fractional entrainment rate in convective clouds is an important parameter in current convective parameterization schemes of climate models. In this paper, it is estimated using a 1-km-resolution cloud-resolving model (CRM) simulation of convective clouds from TWP-ICE (the Tropical Warm Pool-International Cloud Experiment). The clouds are divided into different types, characterized by cloud-top heights. The entrainment rates and moist static energy that is entrained or detrained are determined by analyzing the budget of moist static energy for each cloud type. Results show that the entrained air is a mixture of approximately equal amount of cloud air and environmental air, and the detrained air is a mixture of ~80 % of cloud air and 20 % of the air with saturation moist static energy at the environmental temperature. After taking into account the difference in moist static energy between the entrained air and the mean environment, the estimated fractional entrainment rate is much larger than those used in current convective parameterization schemes. High-resolution (100 m) large-eddy simulation of TWP-ICE convection was also analyzed to support the CRM results. It is shown that the characteristics of entrainment rates estimated using both the high-resolution data and CRM-resolution coarse-grained data are similar. For each cloud category, the entrainment rate is high near cloud base and top, but low in the middle of clouds. The entrainment rates are best fitted to the inverse of in-cloud vertical velocity by a second order polynomial.
Informal Payments to the Tax Collector in Transition Countries

In this paper, I empirically examine survey data on the likelihood and frequency of firms’ having to make informal payments or gifts to government officials in transition countries. The firm-level s urvey data are from the EBRD-World Bank Business Environment and Enterprise Performance Survey (BEEPS) for enterprises in transition economies of Europe and Central Asia, including Turkey. Characteristics of firms ar e used as explanatory variables along with country characteristics to control for the stage of economic development and current economic conditions at the time the survey data were collected. Probit and selection models of tax inspections, tax-compliance efforts, and firms' informal payments are estimated . The empirical evidence indicates that several specific corporate character istics influence the likelihood of tax inspections, including employment and t he location of the company. Both corporate and country characteristics determin e the likelihood of tax officials' requests for informal payments. Importan tly, tax-compliance costs significantly affect informal payments.
Caspases in Programmed Cell Death

Caspases are a family of cysteine proteases, which are phylogenetically conserved throughout metazoans and serve many different roles. Mammalian caspases are categorized into two functional groups, those involved in immunity and those that facilitate apoptotic cell death. Caspases are expressed as inactive precursors inside cells and must be activated to cleave specific target substrates. Pro-apoptotic caspases cleave a larger subset of intracellular proteins to mediate cell suicide by apoptosis, while caspases involved in immunity can kill cells by alternative non-apoptotic mechanisms. Pro-apoptotic caspases are essential for embryonic development and for normal tissue homeostasis.
Abstract 1765: Inhibition of Notch signaling by a Notch1 monoclonal antibody induces robust anti-tumor efficacy in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia and breast cancer

Notch signaling is deregulated in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) and advanced solid tumors, making it an attractive target for oncology drug development. In this present report, we describe a novel mouse monoclonal antibody, Notch1 mAb, that specifically binds to the negative regulatory region (NRR) of human Notch1 receptor. Using a T-ALL cell line, HPB-ALL, that harbors mutations in Notch1 heterodimerization and PEST domains, we demonstrated that Notch1 mAb blocked Notch signaling by reduction of Notch1 intracellular domain (NICD) and down-regulation of Notch target genes, Hes-1 and cMyc. Notch1 mAb caused cell growth inhibition of HPB-ALL and several other T-ALL cell lines, via induction of cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Notch1 mAb treatment resulted in robust NICD reduction and marked antitumor efficacy in HBP-ALL xenograft model. Additional mechanism-of-action studies revealed inhibition of tumor cell proliferation and induction of apoptosis in HPB-ALL tumors, suggesting that the anti-tumor activity of Notch1 mAb may be mediated by its direct effects on tumor cell growth or survival. Furthermore, this antibody led to a significant reduction in leukemia progenitor cells (LPCs) baring NOTCH1 mutation in bioluminescent humanized T-ALL LPC mouse models. In addition to its inhibitory effect on mutant Notch1, Notch1 mAb also displayed robust neutralization activity on wild type Notch1 and caused tumor growth inhibition in breast cancer models MDA-MB-231 and MX-1 by targeting the wild type receptor in these tumor types. Interestingly, using a gamma secretase inhibitor PF-03084014, we showed that Notch1 mAb and PF-03084014 elicited similar degree of biology responses in HPB-ALL cells. Our results indicate that antibodies that bind to NRR can act as potent inhibitors of Notch1 signaling and provide opportunities for development of novel cancer therapeutics for T-ALL and solid tumors. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 1765. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-1765
Interspecific Competition Between Parasitoids of the Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera Frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

Interspecific competition within larvae of the fall army worm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith), by the larval parasitoids, Cotesia (= Apanteles) marginiventris Cresson and Microplitis manilae Ashmead, and the egg-larval parasitoid Chelonus insularis Cresson was studied. Chelonus insularis was not able to compete successfully against Cotesia marginiventris, but was a successful competitor against Microplitis manilae. Multiple parasitization of larvae by either Cotesia marginiventris or Microplitis manilae, which as eggs were parasitized by Chelonus insularis, did not result in additional host mortality. Percentage parasitization under greenhouse conditions by Cotesia marginiventris of larvae parasitized previously by Chelonus insularis was two-fold higher in corn compared to sorghum and more than four-fold higher compared to Bermuda grass and itch grass. The host finding and behavioural sequence of oviposition of Cotesia marginiventris in FAW larvae already parasitized by Chelonus insularis consisted of nine steps. Microplitis manilae females changed their behaviour significantly by displaying a reduction of ca. fifty per cent in host examinations, 45% in ovipositor probes, and 55% in apparent ovipositions when Chelonus insularis parasitized larvae were presented. Cotesia marginiventris and Microplitis manilae exhibited no significant behavioural changes in the per cent contacts, examinations and apparent ovipositions when attacking larvae parasitized previously by either Cotesia marginiventris or Microplitis manilae.
Travelers' diarrhea: Prevention and Treatment

Travelers' diarrhea affects almost half of all travelers from developed to developing nations. Its occurrence frequently alters planned activities. Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli and other bacterial pathogens endemic to the area visited account for the majority of pathogens isolated. Newer research technologies are assisting in defining virulence properties and epidemiologic characteristics. Prudence exercised during travel remains the preferred mode of prevention, reserving antimicrobial prophylaxis for specific situations. Oral rehydration and early pharmacologic intervention with antimicrobial and antimotility agents significantly decrease length of illness when diarrhea occurs.
Current Situation,Problems and Countermeasures of Industrial Development of Sapindus mukurossi in Jianning County,Fujian Province

The industrial plantation of Sapindus mukurossi in Jianning County,Fujian Province is in conformity with national strategy for the diversification of energy supply,the demand for economic development in the county and Western Taiwan Strait Zone,natural environment protection and the construction of environmentally friendly society.The difficulties faced by the industrial development of Sapindus mukurossi in the county include the inadequate supply of qualified seedlings,the shortage of high-yield cultivation technology,low level of comprehensive utilization and inadequate financial support.The suggestions for the development of Sapindus mukurossi in Jianning County include strengthening the research and extension of new varieties and high-yield technology as well as the products with high added value,increasing financial support,innovating management style and cooperating with national key companies such as Sinopec.
Luto, depressão e o DSM-5: uma revisão e reflexões sobre o debate

Todos os lados envolvidos no debate sobre a eliminacao ou a manutencao do luto como criterio de exclusao para o diagnostico do transtorno depressivo concordavam que o DSM-IV era inconsistente. Nele, sintomas de depressao nao contavam para o diagnostico de um transtorno depressivo se fossem resposta a perda de uma pessoa amada, mas sim em relacao a quaisquer outros tipos de perda ou estresse. Os participantes no debate nao chegaram a um acordo sobre como resolver a inconsistencia — eliminar a clausula de excecao do luto, mante-la ou estende-la a todos os casos com sintomas depressivos precipitados por perda ou estresse. A diferenca entre como o debate foi apresentado ao publico geral e como os topicos foram debatidos na literatura cientifica e descrita, assim como os fatos sobre os quais os varios lados prontamente concordaram. Estudo cientifico que lanca duvida sobre pressupostos comuns acerca da psicologia do sofrimento do luto tambem e examinado. Em sua conclusao, o artigo aponta tanto os aspectos cientifico-empiricos como as facetas metafisicas do debate, e sugere uma solucao pragmatica e verbal para uma dessas facetas metafisicas.
Organic nitrates and nitrites as stores of NO bioactivity

Publisher Summary Nitrates are an important class of drug for cardiovascular therapy under continuous development. Hybrid nitrates and NO chimeras, respectively, release a non-nitrate drug molecule or contain an ancillary pharmacophore; both approaches are designed to amplify or synergize the therapeutic activity of the nitrate in specific disease indications. Current drug discovery of new nitrate drug classes for indications beyond the vasculature emphasizes the need to better understand nitrate metabolism, bioactivation, and bioactivity. There is an opportunity to increase the selectivity of nitrates for target cells and tissues exploiting different bioactivation apparatus and mechanisms, beyond the serendipitous selectivity of many nitrates for bioactivation in hypoxic tissue. Structural modifications of nitrates can be envisioned that target specific enzymes for bioactivation, for example, those upregulated in cells under pathophysiological conditions. The biological half-life of GTN is in the order of minutes and several NO-NSAID nitrates cannot be detected intact in target tissue or even in plasma, yet contemporary nitrate drugs are often described as releasing NO in a sustained fashion for several hours. This apparent dilemma is resolved if one considers nitrates to provide a sustained source of “NO bioactivity,” certainly of longer duration than that provided by true NO. The biological and clinical data suggest that there are multiple bioactivation pathways accessible to nitrates and multiple sites of action, and also that the mediators of bioactivity include but are not limited to NO itself.
Liquid Chromatographic Determination of Sulfentrazone in Soil

A rapid method for the determination of sulfentrazone in soils is described. The method consists of extraction of soil samples with methanol, filtration, liquid chromatographic separation of methanol-soluble components through a C 18 column, and ultraviolet detection at 220 nm. Recoveries from fortified surface soils were >85% for sulfentrazone. Average relative standard deviations over the soils examined was 7.7%. A conservative lower limit of quantitation for sulfentrazone was 40 ng/g soil.
Rationale and Background on Tumor-Treating Fields for Glioblastoma.

Background More than 150 years after the first description of glioma cells, patients with glioblastoma (GBM) continue to have a poor prognosis despite standard-of-care therapy. With the introduction of tumor-treating fields (TTFields) therapy for the treatment of recurrent GBM in 2011 and for newly diagnosed GBM in 2015, the opportunity to increase progression-free survival and overall survival while improving quality of life provides a welcome option. Objectives This article describes how TTFields therapy may be used in the treatment of patients with recurrent GBM. Methods This article provides oncology nurses with two case studies that examine how TTFields therapy can be integrated into the overall treatment paradigm. Findings These two patient case studies demonstrate the autonomy and lack of adverse effects that TTFields therapy offers to patients with GBM.
Of Human Bondage: The Relevance of Hegel's Dialectic of Desire and Recognition for Humanistic Counselors

The authors propose Hegel's (1807/1977) dialectic of desire and recognition as an integrative model for humanistic counselors. Following a review of relevant literature, the authors address desire, recognition, the master–slave relationship, and alienation in a contemporary context. Implications for the counseling relationship, case conceptualization, practice, and research are considered.
An Empirical Proton NMR Shielding Equation for Alkenes Based on Ab Initio Calculations

Nuclei of hydrogen atoms located over a carbon-carbon double bond in the presence of a strong magnetic field experience a perturbed magnetic field caused primarily by the magnetic anisotropy of the π bond. However, the commonly used theoretical model for predicting the shielding effect of an alkene double bond on hydrogen nuclei is sometimes inconsistent with the observed proton NMR chemical shifts in structures that have covalently bonded hydrogens located over a carbon-carbon double bond. We have used the ab initio gauge including atomic orbital (GIAO) method to calculate isotropic shielding values and to determine the proton NMR shielding increments for a simple model system: methane held at various positions over ethene. These shielding increments calculated for one proton of methane have been mapped as a function of their position in Cartesian coordinates relative to the center of ethene. A mathematical function has been fit to this three-dimensional shielding increment surface at each of four distances from the face of the ethene molecule. Additionally, a single mathematical equation has been developed for predicting the shielding caused by the carbon-carbon double bond in ethene. In contrast to the traditionally employed shielding model, our results predict deshielding for protons within 3 A above the center of a carbon-carbon double bond, consistent with experimental observations in several molecular systems. The NMR shielding increments predicted by this equation are compared to observed shielding increments in some test alkenes.
Building Federal Partnerships to Harness Long-Term Success: A Case Study from the Joint EPA and USCG Response to Michigan Chemical Factories

In the fall of 2015, the Coast Guard's Atlantic Strike Team (AST) was requested by Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 to provide response operations at two abandoned chemical plating fa...
Living with parents or grandparents increases social capital and survival: 2014 General Social Survey-National Death Index

Abstract Introduction After nearly a century-long trend toward single-family living arrangements, people in wealthy nations are increasingly living in multi-generational households. Multi-generational living arrangements can, in theory, increase psychological, social, and financial capital—factors associated with improvements in health and longevity. Methods We conducted a survival analysis using the 2014 General Social Survey-National Death Index, a prospective multi-year survey. We explored whether single generational living arrangements were associated with a higher risk of mortality than multi-generational living arrangements. Results We explored this association for different groups (e.g., the foreign-born and those with high self-reported stress in family relationships). Healthy subjects who live in two-generation households were found to have lower premature mortality (hazard ratio 0.9, 95% confidence interval = 0.82, 0.99). Otherwise, we found little evidence that living arrangements matter for the respondents’ risk of premature mortality. Conclusions Healthy people living in two-generation households have longer survival than healthy people living on their own.
Development of a high-throughput in vivo screening platform for particulate matter exposures.

Abstract Particulate matter (PM) exposure is a public health burden with poorly understood health effect mechanisms and lacking an efficient model to compare the vast diversity of PM exposures. Zebrafish ( Danio rerio ) are amenable to high-throughput screening (HTS), but few studies have investigated PM toxicity in zebrafish, despite the multitude of advantages. To develop standardized exposure procedures, the urban PM standard reference material (SRM) 1649b was used to systematically determine sample preparation methods, design experimental controls, determine concentration ranges and evaluation procedures. Embryos (n = 32/treatment) were dechorionated and placed into 96-well plates containing SRM1649b (0–200 μg/mL) at 6 h post fertilization (hpf). Developmental toxicity was assessed at 24 and 120 hpf by evaluating morphological changes, embryonic/larval photomotor behavior, and mortality. Differences from blank medium and particle controls were observed for all biological responses measured. Differences due to SRM1649b concentration and preparation method were also observed. Exposure to SRM1649b from DMSO extraction was associated with changes in morphology and mortality and hypoactivity in photomotor responses compared to the DMSO control for the whole particle suspension (76, 68%) and soluble fraction (59, 54%) during the embryonic and larval stages, respectively. Changes in behavioral responses were not observed following exposure to the insoluble fraction of SRM1649b from DMSO extraction. The toxicity bias from PM preparation provided further impetus to select a single HTS exposure method. Based on the biological activity results, the soluble fraction of SRM1649b from DMSO extraction was selected and shown to have concentration dependent cyp1a /GFP expression. This rapid, sensitive and consistently scalable model is a potentially cost-effective vertebrate approach to study the toxicology of PM from diverse locations, and provides a path to identifying the toxic material(s) in these samples, and discover the mechanisms of toxicity.
Estimating evapotranspiration change due to forest treatment and fire at the basin scale in the Sierra Nevada, California

We investigated the potential magnitude and duration of forest evapotranspiration (ET) decreases resulting from forest-thinning treatments and wildfire in west-slope watersheds of the Sierra Nevada range in California, U.S.A. using a robust empirical relation between Landsat-derived mean-annual normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) and ET measured at flux towers. Among forest treatments, the minimum observed NDVI change required to produce a significant departure from control plots with NDVI of about 0.70 was -0.09 units, corresponding to a basal-area reduction of 29.1 m2 ha-1 (45% reduction) and equivalent to an estimated ET reduction of 153 mm yr-1 (21% change; approximate mean annual precipitation = 1000 mm). Intensive thinning in highly productive forests that approached pre-fire-exclusion densities reduced basal area by 40-50%, generating estimated ET reductions of 153-218 mm yr-1 (21-27% change) over five years following treatment. Low-intensity underburn treatments resulted in no significant change in ET. Examining the cumulative impact of wildfires on ET between 1990 and 2008, we found that the lower and wetter American River basin (5310 km2) generated more than twice the ET reduction per unit area than those in the higher and drier Kings River basin (4790 km2), corresponding to greater water and energy limitations in the latter and greater fire severity in the former. A rough extrapolation of these results to the entire American River watershed suggests that ET reductions due to forest thinning by wildfire could approach 10% of full natural flows for dry years and 5% over all years.
Transition-metal-mediated self-assembly of discrete nanoscopic species with well-defined shapes and geometries

Publisher Summary This chapter presents self-assembly as an effective route to truly low cost manufacturing. Coordination offers advantages and unique design features in the assembly of discrete supramolecular species. These include tremendous versatility due to the potentially large and diverse number of possible transition metal complexes and multidentate ligands available as building blocks, bond energies of 15-30 kcal/mol per interaction that are the range between the strong covalent bonding in classical macrocycles and the weak interactions of systems patterned after biological models, excellent product yields inherent in the self-assembly process, precise control, coupled with large variation, over the shape and size of the assemblies, and ready control of the polarity and charge state of the desired macrocycles due to the possibility of controlled formation of charged, neutral, and mixed macrocycles. Moreover, coordination may be combined with the classical covalent macrocycles as well as the hydrogen-bonding motif for the design of even more elaborate, complex, and sophisticated species. Artificial systems able to form a wide range of nonbiological products under programmatic control are likely to be more brittle and less adaptable in their response to changes in their environment than biological systems. At the same time, they should be simpler and easier to design. The complexity of such systems will not be excessive by present engineering standards.
Categorical Filing Using the Keysort Card Technique

It is often important for research and teaching purposes to separate ultrasound files into categories defined by clinical data, referral indications, ultrasound results, pathology, or chronological periods. In many laboratories this involves tedious searches through files or reliance upon index card systems whose upkeep adds to the time required per patient exam and which do not allow for cross-match between categories. Computerized coding of all ultrasound exams would alleviate the problem. Computer facilities are available in our department; however, a desire for direct availability of the data to ultrasound personnel led to a search for another system.
Seodang: A Pilgrimage Toward Knowledge/Action and "Us-Ness" in the Community

The purpose of this article is to present a Korean theory of epistemology and to provide an epistemological embodiment of Korean epistemology as it appears in a traditional, local village school ca...
The immunocytochemical expression of VE‐1 (BRAF V600E‐related) antibody identifies the aggressive variants of papillary thyroid carcinoma on liquid‐based cytology

Background The recently introduced monoclonal V600E antibody (clone VE1) is likely to be an alternative strategy for detecting this mutation in thyroid lesions. Although VE1 immunostaining and molecular methods used to assess papillary thyroid carcinoma in surgical specimens are in good agreement, evaluation of VE1 in cytology and cell block samples is rarely performed, and its diagnostic value in cytology has not been well established. In this study, we sought to determine if VE1 is suitable for fine needle aspiration (FNA) and cell block methods. Methods A total of 86 patients who had BRAF V600E mutations were investigated with molecular and immunocytochemical (ICC) analysis in 45 FNA and 41 cell blocks. In total, 83 (96.5%) patients underwent surgical treatment. Assessment of BRAF V600E mutation status was performed in 72 (83.7%) cases. Results Among the 72 cases analysed, 54 cases agreed (ICC+/BRAF+ or ICC-/BRAF-), seven cases were false positive (ICC+/BRAF-) and 11 cases were false negative (ICC-/BRAF+). False negative cases were not detected in the cell block method. The statistical analysis showed that sensitivity and specificity of ICC for detecting the BRAF V600E mutation were 61% and 77% in FNA samples and 100% and 73% in cell block. Conclusion The use of antibody VE-1 is a reliable method and a negative result of VE1 immunostaining might help to save time and money, restricting the molecular test to antibody-positive cases only. The identification of the aggressive variants of papillary carcinoma might be enabled by the expression of the antibody in neoplastic cells with tall cell features.
The correlation between sarcopaenia and post-transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt hepatic encephalopathy: a single-institution review.

Introduction Sarcopaenia, or muscle wasting, can be used to objectively quantify malnutrition in cirrhotic patients. Material and methods In this retrospective study, a list of all patients who underwent transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) procedure at Westchester Medical Centre from September 2009 to July 2018 was obtained, and individual chart reviews were performed. Results In total, 90 charts were reviewed. Fifty-six patients satisfied our inclusion criteria. Using PMA cut-off values determined in prior studies, we found that 50 of the 56 patients in our study were sarcopaenic. The majority of the patients were male (n = 45). The most common aetiology of cirrhosis was alcoholic cirrhosis (n = 27), followed by viral hepatitis (n = 10), and the most common indication for TIPS was refractory ascites (n = 34). The mean age in the sarcopaenic group was 60.1 years compared to 57.4 years in the non-sarcopaenic group. Mean MELD-Na scores and albumin levels were comparable in both groups. Only one patient was deceased at 6 months post-TIPS. Of the 56 patients included, 18 developed clinically significant hepatic encephalopathy within 6 months of their TIPS procedure. All 18 patients belonged to the sarcopaenic group; 6 patients were not sarcopaenic, and none of them were noted to develop HE within 6 months of their TIPS (p = 0.074). Conclusions Based on our results, we concluded that sarcopaenia correlates with the development of hepatic encephalopathy within 6 months of a TIPS procedure; however, the results did not reach statistical significance.
Giant photogalvanic effect and second-harmonic generation in magnetic axion insulators

The second-order nonlinear optical (NLO) processes, such as photogalvanic effect and second-order harmonic generation (SHG), play crucial roles in probing and controlling light-matter interactions for energy and device applications. Combining quantum perturbation theory and first-principles simulations, we predict a giant injection-current photogalvanic effect and SHG in a family of emerging axion insulators, the even septuple layers of $\mathrm{MnB}{\mathrm{i}}_{2}\mathrm{T}{\mathrm{e}}_{4}$ (MBT) materials. Their amplitudes of photocurrent and SHG are about 1--2 orders of magnitude larger than those of proper ferroelectrics and antiferromagnetic $\mathrm{Cr}{\mathrm{I}}_{3}$. Moreover, unlike the widely studied injection current observed under circularly polarized light, the injection photocurrent of MBT only emerges under linearly polarized light, making it suitable for device applications. These unique characters are from a combination effect of parity-time symmetry and significant spin-orbit coupling. Our predicted enhanced NLOs are valuable for characterizing subtle magnetic orders and shed light on infrared photodetecting and photovoltaic applications based on magnetic topological materials.
Effect of adjuvant radiotherapy (RT) on overall survival (OS) for node positive head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC)

6087 Background: Although adjuvant RT is often recommended for locally advanced HNSCC, its effect on OS or cancer-specific survival (CSS) has not been clearly demonstrated. Methods: Within the Surv...
Synthesis, floating zone crystal growth and characterization of the quantum spin ice Pr2Zr2O7 pyrochlore

Abstract Pyrochlore Pr 3+ 2+ x Zr 4+ 2− x O 7− x /2 samples in the form of both powders (−0.02≤ x ≤0.02) and bulk single crystals have been studied to elucidate the dependence of their magnetic, compositional and structural properties on synthesis and growth conditions. All samples were characterized using X-ray diffraction, specific heat, and DC magnetization measurements. The crystals were also studied using the X-ray Laue technique and scanning electron microscopy. Increasing the Pr content for the Pr 2+ x Zr 2− x O 7− x /2 powders enlarged the lattice parameter, and resulted in systematic changes in magnetic susceptibility and specific heat. Stoichiometric and high quality single crystals of Pr 2 Zr 2 O 7 were grown using the optical floating zone technique under a high purity static argon atmosphere, to avoid inclusions of Pr 4+ and limit Pr vaporization. Increasing the growth speed was found to significantly reduce Pr vaporization for better control of stoichiometry. Scanning electron microscopy provided direct evidence of spinodal decomposition during growth that is controllable via rotation rate. An intermediate rotation rate of 3–6 rpm was found to produce the best microstructure. The magnetic susceptibility of crystals grown at rates from 1 to 20 mm/h revealed changes that were consistent with Pr vaporization. Further, we report indications of local off-centering of Pr 3+ ions from the ideal pyrochlore sites, similar to what is known for the trivalent cation in Bi 2 Ti 2 O 7 and La 2 Zr 2 O 7 . The effect varies with Pr content and radically modulates the low temperature specific heat. Overall, the results clearly demonstrate important correlations between the growth conditions and physical properties of Pr 2 Zr 2 O 7 crystals.
Surgery for spinal deformity: non-elective admission status is associated with higher cost of care and longer length of stay

Surgery is commonly indicated for adult spinal deformity. Annual rates and costs of spinal deformity surgery have both increased over the past two decades. However, the impact of non-elective status on total cost of hospitalization and patient outcomes has not been quantified. To evaluate the impact of admission status on patient outcomes and healthcare costs in spinal deformity surgery. All patients who underwent spinal deformity surgery at a single institution between 2008 and 2016 were grouped by admission status: elective, emergency (ED), or transferred. Demographics were compared by univariate analysis. Cost of care and length of stay (LOS) were compared between admission statuses using multivariable linear regression with elective admissions as reference. Multivariate logistic regression was utilized to assess in-hospital complications, discharge destination, and readmission rates. There were 427 spinal deformity surgeries included in this study. Compared to elective patients, ED patients had higher Elixhauser Comorbidity Index scores (p < 0.0001), longer LOS (+ 10.9 days, 97.5% CI 6.1–15.6 days, p < 0.0001), and higher costs (+ $20,076, 97.5% CI $9,073–$31,080, p = 0.0008). Transferred patients had significantly higher Elixhauser scores (p = 0.0002), longer LOS (+ 8.8 days, 97.5% CI 3.0–14.7 days, p < 0.0001), and higher rates of non-home discharge (OR = 15.8, 97.5% CI 2.3–110.0, p = 0.001). Patients admitted from the ED undergoing spinal deformity surgery had significantly higher cost of care and longer LOS compared to elective patients. Transferred patients had significantly longer LOS and a higher rate of non-home discharge compared to elective patients.
The Empire State Inclusive Value Ledger Establishment and Administration Act

This draft bill establishes the author's Inclusive Value Ledger plan - a publicly administered digital payments platform and associated system of digital wallets - in the State of New York. The aim is thereby to afford all residents and businesses in the State of New York free access to a universal value-storage and -transfer architecture, meaning in turn that (a) all persons and businesses will be 'banked,' (b) all will be able to make and receive peer-to-peer (P2P) payments in 'real time' at no charge, (c) disbursements to and from the state fisc also will be instantaneous, and (d) the state will be able to remunerate forms of 'care work' that currently go unrewarded. The bill also works to ensure personal data and privacy protection, through both encryption technology and criminal law enforcement, for all users of the system, and requires all banks to permit access to teller windows and ATMs for any who wish to convert digital cash to paper currency. These attributes must be considered essential public infrastructural goods in any self-styled 'commercial republic' or 'exchange economy' such as our own. The upshot will be a system of banking and payments that is simultaneously more just and efficient (hence 'pro-growth') than what is currently available anywhere in the U.S. The bill has been formally proposed in the New York State Assembly by Assemblyman Ron Kim, and in the State Senate by Senator Julia Salazar, since October of 2019.
How Protective are Nipple-Sparing Prophylactic Mastectomies in BRCA1 and BRCA2 Mutation Carriers?

Nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) is now routinely offered to BRCA mutation carriers for risk reduction. We assessed the rates of ipsilateral cancer events after prophylactic and therapeutic NSM in BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation carriers. BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation carriers undergoing NSM from October 2007 to June 2019 were identified in a single-institution prospective database, with variants of unknown significance being excluded. Patient, tumor, and outcomes data were collected. Follow-up analysis was by cumulative breast-years (total years of follow-up of each breast) and woman-years (total years of follow-up of each woman). Overall, 307 BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation carriers (160 BRCA1, mean age 41.4 years [range 21–65]; and 147 BRCA2, mean age 43.8 years [range 23–65]) underwent 607 NSMs, with a median follow-up of 42 months (range 1–143). 388 bilateral prophylactic NSMs had 744 cumulative woman-years of follow-up, with no new cancers seen (< 0.0013 new cancers per woman-years); 251 BRCA1 prophylactic NSMs had 1034 cumulative breast-years of follow-up, with no new ipsilateral cancers seen (< 0.0010 per breast-year); 66 BRCA1 therapeutic NSMs had 328 cumulative breast-years of follow-up, with one ipsilateral cancer recurrence not directly involving the nipple or areola (0.0030 per breast-year); 237 BRCA2 prophylactic NSMs had 926 cumulative breast-years of follow-up, with no new ipsilateral cancers seen (< 0.0011 per breast-year); and 53 BRCA2 therapeutic NSMs had 239 cumulative breast-years of follow-up, with two ipsilateral recurrent cancers, neither of which directly involved the nipple or areola (0.0084 per breast-year). The risk of new ipsilateral breast cancers is extremely low after NSM in BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation carriers. NSM is an effective risk-reducing strategy for BRCA gene mutations.