cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
3D imaging and quantitative analysis of small solubilized membrane proteins and their complexes by transmission electron microscopy

Inherently unstable, detergent-solubilized membrane protein complexes can often not be crystallized. For complexes that have a mass of >300 kDa, cryo-electron microscopy (EM) allows their three-dimensional (3D) structure to be assessed to a resolution that makes secondary structure elements visible in the best case. However, many interesting complexes exist whose mass is below 300 kDa and thus need alternative approaches. Two methods are reviewed: (i) Mass measurement in a scanning transmission electron microscope, which has provided important information on the stoichiometry of membrane protein complexes. This technique is applicable to particulate, filamentous and sheet-like structures. (ii) 3D-EM of negatively stained samples, which determines the molecular envelope of small membrane protein complexes. Staining and dehydration artifacts may corrupt the quality of the 3D map. Staining conditions thus need to be optimized. 3D maps of plant aquaporin SoPIP2;1 tetramers solubilized in different detergents illustrate that the flattening artifact can be partially prevented and that the detergent itself contributes significantly. Another example discussed is the complex of G protein-coupled receptor rhodopsin with its cognate G protein transducin.
Ultrastructural findings in congenital anemia, dyskeratosis, and progressive alopecia in Polled Hereford calves.

Ultrastructural evidence of dyserythropoiesis was found in ten calves (ages 1 to 16 months) previously diagnosed as having congenital anemia, dyskeratosis, and progressive alopecia. Morphologic abnor- malities found in erythroid precursors of all calves were associated with the nucleus. Rubriblast nuclei were irregular with numerous blebs, indentations, and deep clefts. Elongated blebs appeared as satellite nuclei in some sections. Nuclear membranes had numerous defects or gaps, which were frequently present in, but not limited to, recently divided cells. Cytoplasmic material could be found within these gaps and extending into the nucleus. Rubricytes had chromatin that was abnormally condensed and hyperosmiophilic, with numerous translucent vacuoles present. Binucleate rubricytes occurred frequently in affected calves. These changes resemble those of type I congenital dyserythropoiesis in human beings, and we suggest congenital anemia, dyskeratosis, and progressive alopecia of Polled Hereford calves as the appropriate diagnostic terms to describe this disease.
Spatially Invariant Vector Quantization: A pattern matching algorithm for multiple classes of image subject matter including pathology

Introduction: Historically, effective clinical utilization of image analysis and pattern recognition algorithms in pathology has been hampered by two critical limitations: 1) the availability of digital whole slide imagery data sets and 2) a relative domain knowledge deficit in terms of application of such algorithms, on the part of practicing pathologists. With the advent of the recent and rapid adoption of whole slide imaging solutions, the former limitation has been largely resolved. However, with the expectation that it is unlikely for the general cohort of contemporary pathologists to gain advanced image analysis skills in the short term, the latter problem remains, thus underscoring the need for a class of algorithm that has the concurrent properties of image domain (or organ system) independence and extreme ease of use, without the need for specialized training or expertise. Results: In this report, we present a novel, general case pattern recognition algorithm, Spatially Invariant Vector Quantization (SIVQ), that overcomes the aforementioned knowledge deficit. Fundamentally based on conventional Vector Quantization (VQ) pattern recognition approaches, SIVQ gains its superior performance and essentially zero-training workflow model from its use of ring vectors, which exhibit continuous symmetry, as opposed to square or rectangular vectors, which do not. By use of the stochastic matching properties inherent in continuous symmetry, a single ring vector can exhibit as much as a millionfold improvement in matching possibilities, as opposed to conventional VQ vectors. SIVQ was utilized to demonstrate rapid and highly precise pattern recognition capability in a broad range of gross and microscopic use-case settings. Conclusion: With the performance of SIVQ observed thus far, we find evidence that indeed there exist classes of image analysis/pattern recognition algorithms suitable for deployment in settings where pathologists alone can effectively incorporate their use into clinical workflow, as a turnkey solution. We anticipate that SIVQ, and other related class-independent pattern recognition algorithms, will become part of the overall armamentarium of digital image analysis approaches that are immediately available to practicing pathologists, without the need for the immediate availability of an image analysis expert.
Alternative Routes to State Breakdown: Toward an Integrated Model of Territorial Disintegration

A theoretical strategy is proposed to integrate competing models of state breakdown by conceptualizing key concepts in these models at a more abstract level. The demographic model, which asserts that rapid population growth can bring about state breakdown when economic and political institutions are too rigid, is extracted from Goldstone's work. The geopolitical model, which argues that deteriorating geopolitical condition can bring about state breakdown if the state is too weak and the economy too unproductive, is extracted from Skocpol's and Collins's works. The competing models are conceptualized as alternative and interacting routes to state breakdown where changing population pressure and geopolitical condition may generate integrative or disintegrative tendency depending on state power and productivity. A model describing four dimensions of state power--economic, military, political, and administrative--is constructed to incorporate various conceptualizations of the state in the state breakdown literature. Also integrated in the model is a third alternative route suggesting that rapid market development can generate disintegrative tendency if state power is too low. The synthesized model allows us to see that disintegrative/integrative tendency produced by one route may intensify or alleviate that generated by another route. Language: en
Fuzzy model for cylinder air charge estimation

Fuzzy logic modeling based on the fuzzy set theory provides a useful tool for converting the linguistic modeling strategies from expert knowledge into modeling rules. We deal with designing fuzzy modeling algorithms on the basis of expert experience. The proposed design procedures of fuzzy modeling are illustrated by means of a model for cylinder air charge estimation.
Anchor selection study for ocean current turbines

This paper compares anchoring systems suitable for ocean current turbines, specifically those proposed to be installed off the coast of Southeast Florida near latitude 26° 5’ N. This location boast...
Reducing Errors in Transition from Acute Stroke Hospitalization to Inpatient Rehabilitation.

Objective: Effective stroke care does not end with acute treatment during hospitalization, but extends through Objective: Effective stroke care does not end with acute treatment during hospitalization, but extends through rehabilitation and secondary stroke prevention. In transitions across care environments, stroke patients are vulnerable to errors in communication of diagnosis and treatment. This study aimed to demonstrate that formalized communication between the neurology team and the rehabilitation medicine team would promote secondary stroke prevention and minimize interruptions during rehabilitation. Methods: The intervention was a standardized verbal handoff by phone between the discharging neurology resident and the admitting rehabilitation resident regarding each patient at transfer. This retrospective cohort study compared a pre-intervention control group (September 2012- February 2013) and a post-intervention group transferred with the handoff (September 2013- January 2014). The outcomes measured included errors in communication of stroke severity, stroke mechanism, medications, and recommended follow-up (appointments and tests) as well as emergent brain imaging, return to the acute care facility, and readmission. Results: The pre- and post-intervention groups were similar with respect to number of patients (50 vs. 52) and demographics including gender (52% vs. 54% female), age (65.8 vs. 64.0 years), severity of illness as measured by the NIHSS (10 vs. 6.5), and stroke type (84% vs. 77% ischemic). Implementation of the handoff decreased errors in communication of diagnosis (NIHSS 92% vs. 74%, p=0.02; stroke mechanism 54% vs. 30%, p=0.02). Furthermore, the handoff decreased the proportion with errors in reconciliation of critical medications (42% vs. 23%, p=0.04). However, the intervention did not significantly reduce interruptions of the rehabilitation program, such as emergent brain imaging (8% vs. 12%, p=0.55) or transfers back to the acute care hospital (26% vs. 21%, p=0.56). Conclusions: Standardized handoffs decreased errors in communication of diagnosis and critical medications for secondary stroke prevention.
Effect of Niobium on the Defect Chemistry and Oxidation Kinetics of Tetragonal ZrO2

Zirconium–niobium alloys are currently proposed for applications in water-cooled nuclear reactors. However, the mechanisms by which Nb impacts the corrosion resistance of these alloys are yet to be clarified. In this work, we utilize a thermodynamic framework informed by density functional theory calculations to predict the effect of Nb on the equilibria of charged defects in tetragonal ZrO2, and discuss how the changes in the defect concentrations affect the protectiveness of this oxide that grows natively on Zr alloys during oxidation. Our analysis shows that Nb dissolves predominantly in the oxidation state 5+ as a substitutional defect on the Zr sublattice, with charge compensation achieved by the negatively charged Zr vacancies. Moreover, Nb dissolution is limited to the oxygen-rich conditions, i.e., in the oxide surface facing oxidizing environment. We validate this finding by performing X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy on oxidized Zr–Nb alloys. The introduction of Nb in tetragonal ZrO2 is found to ...
Investigation of the Kinetics of Surface-Limited thin Film Growth of SiGe Alloys by CVD of Si2H6/Ge2 H6 Mixtures

The kinetics of surface-limited thin film growth of SiGe alloys was investigated by time-resolved surface differential reflectometry. The source gas, mixtures of disilane and digermane in ratios from 1:1 to 6:1 in helium carrier gas, was delivered to a heated Si(001) substrate by a fast-acting pulsed molecular jet valve. The adsorption and desorption kinetics were determined from the surface differential reflectance signal obtained using a polarized, high-stability HeNe probe laser. Thin film growth was studied in the temperature range of 400-600°C on Si(001) substrates. Preferential incorporation of digermane into the film produces an alloy composition that depends upon but does not mirror the gas composition. For all gas mixtures, there is a strong temperature dependence of the rate at which the adsorption layer decomposes into film plus by-product. The kinetic data and the alloy compositions provide a basis for deducing some of the characteristics of the reaction sequence that leads to SiGe alloy thin film growth.
Elevation of lesioned palatal shelves in vitro.

Fetuses were obtained from CD-I mice at a time estimated to be 12 h prior to ,in vivo secondary palate closure. One of the palatal shelves of each partially dissected fetal head was lesioned in one of five ways, the other left intact to serve as a control. Single transverse cuts extending the width of the shelf were made at one of three positions along the longitudinal axis of the shelf: one-third, one-half or two-thirds the shelf length estimated from the rostral edge. Some specimens were cut in two places, dividing the shelf into three equal segments. Another group received a lesion which separated the caudal third of the shelf from its maxillary connections. All specimens were cultured for 18 h. At the end of the culture period the heads were fixed, examined and the degree of elevation of each shelf piece assessed. Intact, contiol shelves of all preparations were elevated in the rostral two-thirds of the shelf, while the caudal third was partially elevated. Results seen in lesioned shelves depended upon both the size of the segment and the region of the shelf contained in the segment. The rostral two-thirds of the shelf, the presumptive hard palate, whether intact or in segments elevated without physical connections to neighboring shelf tissue. Thus, it is unlikely that this elevation requires a wave of contraction be transmitted from the caudal soft palate region. In contrast, the presumptive soft palate requires continuity with the rostral portions of the shelf both to maintain structural stability and to elevate.
DIFFERENTIAL GEOMETRIC METHODS AND NONLINEAR CONTROL SYSTEMS

This paper introduces a new kind of methods—differential geometric methods (DGMs), which are effective in dealing with nonlinear control system. The relations between DGMs and nonlinear control system are discussed in section 2. The next section gives the definitions of (differentisble) manifold and differentiable map. In section 4, the concepts of vector field are given, and the relations between vector fields and dynamic systems are introduced. Lie algebra and Lie derivatives are briefly diacussed in section 5. Section 6 introduces the concepts of distribution and integral manifoid, and gives a very important theorem—Frobenius Theorem. In section 7, the linearization and input-output decoupling problems are investigated respectively. The structure of nonlinear control systems with symmetries are studied, and the properties of large-acale compsite systems with similarity are investigated in section 8.
Identification of mRNA coding for factor VII protein in human alveolar macrophages--coagulant expression may be limited due to deficient postribosomal processing.

Clotting factors synthesized by monocytes and macrophages may initiate coagulation reactions during inflammation. Functional vitamin K-dependent coagulation factors have been found to be associated with human monocytes/macrophages, but there are no reports identifying mRNA coding for vitamin K-dependent proteins in these cells. In the present studies, factor VII mRNA was found in total RNA extracted from freshly isolated human alveolar macrophages using hybridization with a complementary DNA probe. On the other hand, vitamin K-dependent carboxylase activity which is required for postribosomal modification of the protein, was not detectable in the macrophages before or after culture, and human blood mononuclear leukocytes also lacked this enzyme activity. Control human and rat hepatoma cells exhibited high levels of carboxylase activity within the same experiments. Using sensitive kinetic assays, no increase in factor VII activity was detected during culture of alveolar macrophages under conditions promoting 1.78 +/- .24 (n = 8) fold increases of tissue factor activity. These findings with freshly isolated cells demonstrate that alveolar macrophages synthesize factor VII mRNA in vivo. However, the mRNA was found in the absence of evidence for gamma-carboxylase activity or processing of the factor into a functional clotting enzyme. The results imply that functional expression of any synthesized coagulation factor VII in alveolar macrophages may be limited or prevented due to a cellular deficiency at the level of postribosomal processing.
Attracting Flows by Attracting Big Clients: Conflicts of Interest and Mutual Fund Portfolio Choice

We explore a new channel to attract inflows using a unique dataset of corporate 401(k) retirement plans and their mutual fund family trustees. Families secure substantial inflows by attracting 401(k) plan assets through being trustee. This affords the plan sponsor potential influence on the family's portfolio decisions. Consistent with this, we find that family trustees significantly overweight their 401(k) client firm's stock. Trustee overweighting is more pronounced when the conflict of interest of the trustee family is more severe and when other mutual funds are selling the client firm's stock. This overweighting is not explained by superior information. We quantify a potentially large benefit to the 401(k) sponsor firm of having its price propped up by its trustee fund's more severe overweighting. We also estimate the resulting loss to mutual fund investors, which in some cases can be large.
A halfplane version of a theorem of Borel

A classical theorem of Borel [2] (c.f. [6, Chapter 5]) states THEOREM A. Let S = {f1,…,fn+1}be a set of zero free entire functions such that any proper subset of S is linearly independent. Then S is linearly independent.
Physical, Textural, and Antioxidant Properties of Extruded Waxy Wheat Flour Snack Supplemented with Several Varieties of Bran

Wheat represents a ubiquitous commodity and although industries valorize 10% of wheat bran, most of this antioxidant-rich byproduct gets fed to livestock. The objective of this study was to incorporate wheat bran into an extruded snack. Bran samples from hard red spring, soft white club cv. Bruehl, and purple wheat lines were added to cv. Waxy-Pen wheat flour (Triticum aestivum L.) at replacement concentrations of 0%, 12.5%, 25%, and 37.5% (w/w; n = 10). Extrudates were evaluated for antioxidant capacity, color, and physical properties. Results showed that high fiber concentrations altered several pasting properties, reduced expansion ratios (P < 0.0001), and created denser products (P < 0.0001), especially for white bran supplemented extrudates. Purple bran supplemented extrudates produced harder products compared to white and red bran treatments (P < 0.0001). Extrudates produced with 37.5% (w/w) of each bran variety absorbed more water than the control with no added bran. The oxygen radical absorption capacity assay, expressed as Trolox Equivalents, showed that extrudates made with addition of red (37.5%) and purple (37.5%) bran had higher values compared to the other treatments; the control, red, and white bran treatments had less antioxidant activity after extrusion (P < 0.0001) compared to purple bran supplemented extrudates. Purple and red brans may serve as viable functional ingredients in extruded foods given their higher antioxidant activities. Future studies could evaluate how bran variety and concentration, extruded shape, and flavor influence consumer acceptance.
The Activation of Maize Controlling Elements

A major contribution to the dynamic flux of the plant genome is the presence of discrete mobile genetic elements that can cause high rates of genetic instability including spontaneous unstable mutations and chromosome rearrangements. These mobile elements, first identified in maize, have since been discovered in a wide variety of prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms. They may well be ubiquitous but simply not yet identified in other organisms.
Treatment Options in Patients Awaiting Liver Transplantation with Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Cholangiocarcinoma

Liver transplantation (LT) provides a good chance of cure for selected patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (pCCA). Patients with HCC on a waiting list for LT are at risk for tumor progression and dropout. Treatment of HCC with locoregional therapies may lessen dropout due to tumor progression. Strict selection and adherence to the LT criteria for patients with pCCA before and after neoadjuvant chemotherapy are critical for optimal outcome with LT. This article reviews the existing data for the various treatment strategies used for patients with HCC and pCCA awaiting LT.
Wonderful triangle: a simple, unified, algorithmic approach to change of basis procedures in computer aided geometric design

Abstract Many important algorithms in computer aided geometric design can be viewed as change of basis procedures. These include evaluation, subdivision, knot insertion, knot deletion, interpolation, degree elevation, and differentiation. We provide a simple, unified, algorithmic approach to such change of basis procedures for a wide class of polynomial and spline bases. Along the way we shall observe that many well-known algorithms and formulas for polynomials and splines, including synthetic division, forward differencing, Horner's method, the de Casteljau algorithm, the de Boor algorithm, Boehm's derivative algorithm, Boehm's knot insertion algorithm, the Oslo algorithm, Marsden's identity, and the binomial theorem are simply variations on a common theme.
An Alternative APW Technique: Theory and Application to Copper

The variational formulation for the solution of the periodic potential problem has been known for some time1. Thus, the development of a new band structure method usually consists of creating a basis function set which has some convenient features. What is to be described here is a variant of the APW basis function set.
Transcutaneous bilirubinometer use and practices surrounding jaundice in 150 California newborn intensive care units.

Transcutaneous bilirubin measurements (TcBs) provide a noninvasive method for screening infants for hyperbilirubinemia and have been used extensively in term and late preterm newborns in well baby nurseries, offices, and outpatient clinics. Several studies have also demonstrated the utility of TcBs as a screening tool for infants > 28 weeks’ gestation and their ability to reduce the need for blood sampling. The objectives of this study are to identify how often TcBs are used among California Newborn Intensive Care Units (NICUs) in preterm, late preterm and term infants, and other aspects of jaundice management. We conducted a survey on TcB use and practices relating to jaundice management in 150 California NICUs between April and October 2016. TcB screening is routinely used in 28% (42/150) of NICUs. Only 7% (11/150) of NICUs use TcB in preterm infants 28 weeks, only 28% of California NICUs routinely use TcB devices. TcB screening in infants < 28 weeks gestation is not widely used and no recommendation can be made in this regard until there is more experience with its application using a standardized protocol in these infants and on a large scale.
Outcomes of Black Patients with Multiple Myeloma in the Veterans Health Administration

Abstract Background: Multiple myeloma (MM) is the most common hematologic malignancy in blacks with more than twice the incidence of non-black populations in national registry data. Prior studies have shown that blacks present with MM at an earlier age and have improved survival compared to non-blacks, contrary to the pattern in most malignancies. These findings have been theorized due to the effects of obesity, treatment variation, and disparities in care, in addition to alternate disease biology in black patients. In order to understand possible effects of race on outcomes while adjusting for confounders not available in other national datasets such as treatment, comorbidities, and baseline laboratory characteristics, we studied outcomes in a nationwide population of United States veterans with MM in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Methods: Patients with MM were identified by the VHA Central Cancer Registry between September 1, 1999 and December 31, 2013 and followed through December 31, 2014. Age, sex, race, body mass index (BMI), Charlson (Romano) comorbidity index, treatment (including transplant), hemoglobin (hgb), albumin, renal function (eGFR), and statin use were included. Cox proportional hazards regression modeling was used to assess the association between black race and overall survival at five years while controlling for known prognostic factors. The study was approved the Saint Louis VA Medical Center institutional review board. Results: 4805 patients were identified with MM, of which 1418 (29.5%) were black. Black patients were younger (66.2 years vs. 69.2, p Conclusions: Survival of black patients with MM was improved compared to non-blacks in the VHA, a national comprehensive care delivery system. Black patients also received similar therapies compared to non-blacks, while presenting at a younger age with more comorbidities. These results are strengthened after adjusting for treatments and patient characteristics not available in other large data studies. Despite increased incidence of MM in the black population, outcomes are improved, similar to other large studies of patients in the United States. Alternate disease biology may be responsible for improved survival and further studies of MM based on race are appropriate. Disclosures Carson: Flatiron Health: Employment; Washington University in St. Louis: Employment; Roche: Consultancy. Sanfilippo: BMS/Pfizer: Speakers Bureau.
On Spanners of Geometric Graphs

We consider the problem of computing spanners of Euclidean graphs embedded in the 2-dimensional Euclidean plane. We present an $O(n\lg{n})$ time algorithm that computes a spanner of a Euclidean graph that is of bounded degree and plane, where n is the number of points in the graph. Both upper bounds on the degree and the stretch factor significantly improve the previous bounds. We extend this algorithm to compute a bounded-degree plane lightweight spanner of a Euclidean graph. Our results rely on elegant structural and geometric results that we develop. Moreover, our results can be extended to Unit Disk graphs under the local distributed model of computation.
Purpose in adolescents diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder

Abstract Introduction Drawing from positive youth development theory, the research team examined purpose in life among adolescents diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Methods Members of the research team conducted paired interviews about purpose in life with adolescents diagnosed with an ASD and one of each adolescent's parents. Data collection took place in the south-central region of the US. The eight adolescent participants were in middle school, high school, and early college. The research team open-coded interview transcripts and condensed these codes into meta-codes to aid in determining the form of purpose for each participant. Results Similar to what has been found in studies of neurotypical youth, participants distributed diversely across the forms of purpose, with all but one participant demonstrating some aspect of purpose. Conclusions The authors recommend practitioners consider the variety of supports they could provide to adolescents diagnosed with an ASD and consider encouraging these youth when their creative interests are sparked. Additionally, the research team invites the scholarly community to further investigate specific contextual supports and to develop ways of measuring purpose that do not rely on advanced language and social skills.
Si-Chip Frequency Combs with 2-Octaves Bandwidth for Longwave-IR Gas and Liquid Dual-Comb Spectroscopy

We use suspended-silicon waveguides for spectral engineering of mid-infrared frequency combs to achieve spectra spanning 2.0 octaves (2-8.5 µm). We demonstrate dual-comb spectroscopy of gas and liquid-phase samples with 100 MHz comb-line resolution. © 2019 The Author(s)
Post-Heart Transplant Hypertension and Conditional Survival

Purpose Hypertension (HTN) is common after orthotopic heart transplant (OHT) and is associated with cardiac allograft vasculopathy (CAV), which is strongly related to mortality. Few data are available regarding whether anti-HTN medications in OHT patients who develop HTN will reduce mortality or incidence of CAV. Our goal was to determine if specific anti-HTN medications were associated with a reduction in CAV or were associated with survival. Methods We performed a single-center retrospective analysis of 130 OHT recipients who developed HTN during their index OHT hospitalization between January 1, 2006 and December 31, 2016. Patients who did not survive to one year were excluded. Patients were followed for 3 years after their OHT. A survival analysis based on conditional one-year survival was performed to find predictors of mortality. Results Baseline characteristics between the two groups (any CAV vs no CAV) were similar (Table 1). No class of medication was associated with a reduction in CAV development. ACE-inhibitors (ACE-I) were associated with reduced mortality (Figure 1). No other predictors of survival were identified in univariate and multivariate analysis. Conclusion For patients who develop HTN post-OHT, our data suggests that no class of medication is associated with the prevention of CAV development, although there may be a survival benefit in patients who are treated with ACE-I. While these data are intriguing, larger studies are required to determine the generalizability of our results.
Commodity Aggregation and Slutsky Asymmetry

Consumer expenditure data often violate the revealed preference axioms. The observed revealed preference inconsistencies must be measured in order to judge the extent to which optimizing models misrepresent demand behavior. This paper considers the “sizes” of violations of the Ville axiom, a differential revealed preference axiom that is equivalent to Slutsky symmetry. We study the effect of commodity aggregation on Ville axiom violations when the commodity aggregation is justified in the sense that it generates a well-defined aggregated demand function. Using a natural measure of Slutsky asymmetry and Ville axiom violation, we show that commodity aggregation can either expand or eliminate the revealed preference inconsistency. We obtain an upper bound on the increase in the maximal sizes of Ville axiom violations due to commodity aggregation. The Slutsky asymmetry norm of the aggregated demand can be larger than that of the original demand function by a factor that is no greater than \( \sqrt {nm/N,} \), where N is the number of goods in the original demand system, m is the number of goods that are aggregated, and n = N − m + 1 is the number of goods in the aggregated system.
Time-Modulated Metamaterials and Metasurfaces: Design and Analysis

Temporally modulated metamaterials have garnered significant interest the last few years due to their nonreciprocal and frequency converting properties. This presentation will describe recent work and ongoing efforts by the authors to analyze and develop time–varying metamaterials and metasurfaces. In particular, the development of time-varying, cascaded metasurfaces will be described. In addition, techniques to analyze linear, periodically time-varying (LPTV) metasurfaces and metamaterials will be presented.
Corrosion-Induced Mass Loss Measurement under Strain Conditions through Gr/AgNW-Based, Fe-C Coated LPFG Sensors.

In this study, graphene/silver nanowire (Gr/AgNW)-based, Fe-C coated long period fiber gratings (LPFG) sensors were tested up to 72 hours in 3.5 w.t% NaCl solution for corrosion-induced mass loss measurement under four strain levels: 0, 500, 1000 and 1500 µe. The crack and interfacial bonding behaviors of laminate Fe-C and Gr/AgNW layer structures were characterized using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and electrical resistance measurement. Both optical transmission spectra and electrical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) data were simultaneously measured from each sensor. Under increasing strains, transverse cracks appeared first and were followed by longitudinal cracks on the laminate layer structures. The spacing of transverse cracks and the length of longitudinal cracks were determined by the bond strength at the weak Fe-C and Gr/AgNW interface. During corrosion tests, the shift in resonant wavelength of the Fe-C coated LPFG sensors resulted from the effects of the Fe-C layer thinning and the NaCl solution penetration through cracks on the evanescent field surrounding the LPFG sensors. Compared with the zero-strained sensor, the strain-induced cracks on the laminate layer structures initially increased and then decreased the shift in resonant wavelength in two main stages of the Fe-C corrosion process. In each corrosion stage, the Fe-C mass loss was linearly related to the shift in resonant wavelength under zero strain and with the applied strain taken into account in general cases. The general correlation equation was validated at 700 and 1200 µe to a maximum error of 2.5% in comparison with 46.5% from the zero-strain correlation equation.
FDA Approval Summary: Ado-Trastuzumab Emtansine for the Adjuvant Treatment of HER2-positive Early Breast Cancer.

On May 3, 2019, the FDA granted regular approval to ado-trastuzumab emtansine (KADCYLA), for the adjuvant treatment of patients with HER2-positive early-breast cancer (EBC) who have residual invasive disease after neoadjuvant taxane-based chemotherapy and trastuzumab-based treatment. Approval was based on data from the KATHERINE trial, which randomized patients to receive ado-trastuzumab emtansine or trastuzumab. At 3 years, the event-free rate for invasive disease-free survival in the ado-trastuzumab emtansine arm was 88.3% [95% confidence interval (CI), 85.8-90.7] compared with 77.0% (95% CI, 73.8-80.7) in the trastuzumab arm, (HR, 0.50; 95% CI, 0.39-0.64; P 25% and higher incidence in ado-trastuzumab emtansine arm) with ado-trastuzumab emtansine were fatigue, nausea, increased transaminases, musculoskeletal pain, hemorrhage, thrombocytopenia, headache, peripheral neuropathy, and arthralgia. Ado-trastuzumab emtansine is the first drug approved for the treatment of patients with residual disease after neoadjuvant treatment and surgery. This article summarizes the FDA review and the data supporting the approval of ado-trastuzumab emtansine as a component of treatment for patients with HER2-positive EBC with residual disease.
Normocomplementemic Urticarial Vasculitis: An Unusual Presentation

Urticarial vasculitis (UV) is a form of cutaneous vasculitis which lasts for >24 h. Clinically, the patients present with erythema and wheals. The level of complement decides the type of UV. This is a case of a middle-aged lady, who developed vesiculobullous lesion over her leg after trekking. She was diagnosed to have normocomplementemic UV. Bullous presentation of UV is a rare scenario.
Peri- and Postoperative Outcomes of Outpatient vs Inpatient Laparoscopic Apical Prolapse Repair.

ABSTRACT Study Objective To assess the feasibility of outpatient laparoscopic management of apical pelvic organ prolapse along with indicated vaginal repairs and anti-incontinence procedures. Design Retrospective cohort study. Setting Tertiary-care academic center, Boston, MA. Patients Total of 112 patients seen in the minimally invasive gynecologic surgery and urogynecology clinics with symptomatic pelvic organ prolapse. Interventions Laparoscopic hysterectomy, sacrocervico- or sacrocolpopexy along with vaginal prolapse and anti-incontinence procedures as indicated from 2013 to 2017 at Brigham & Women's Hospital and Brigham & Women's Faulkner Hospital performed by a minimally invasive gynecologic surgery and urogynecology team. Measurements and Main Results Of the 112 patients, 52 were outpatient and 60 were admitted (median stay in admission group = 1 day; range 1–3). Patient baseline characteristics, American Society of Anesthesiologists’ class, and pelvic organ prolapse quantification stage were similar between the outpatient and admitted cohorts. Most patients underwent hysterectomy at the time of the sacropexy (65.4% outpatient vs 73.3% admitted, p = .08). Concomitant apical prolapse repair was more common in the outpatient group (98.1% vs 85%, p = .02). The proportion of outpatient procedures increased from 17% in 2013 to a peak of 70% in 2016. Operating room time was shorter for the outpatient cohort (103.9 minutes vs 115.5 minutes, p = .04), but other perioperative outcomes were similar. There were no intraoperative complications. The numbers of postoperative complications, readmission, and reoperations were low and similar between outpatient and admitted cohorts. No factor was predictive of admission on regression analysis. Conclusion Laparoscopic apical prolapse repair with concomitant vaginal repairs can be performed safely as an outpatient procedure. A unique team approach may foster a shorter, more efficient procedure without compromising short-term outcomes.
Epidemiologic and Economic Burden of Achalasia in the United States.

Background & Aims Achalasia is a debilitating chronic condition of the esophagus. Currently there are no national estimates on the epidemiologic and economic burden of disease. We sought to estimate trends in incidence and prevalence of achalasia by age-sex strata, and to estimate the total direct medical costs attributed to achalasia in the United States. Methods We conducted a cohort study using two administrative claims databases: IBM MarketScan Commercial Claims and Encounters database (2001-2018; age Results The crude prevalence of achalasia per 100,000 persons was 18.0 (95% CI, 17.4, 18.7) in MarketScan and 162.1 (95% CI, 157.6, 166.6) in Medicare. The crude incidence rate per 100,000 person-years was 10.5 (95% CI, 9.9, 11.1) in MarketScan and 26.0 (95% CI, 24.9, 27.2) in Medicare. Incidence and prevalence increased substantially over time in the Medicare cohort, and increased with more advanced age in both cohorts. Utilization of achalasia-specific healthcare was high; national estimates of total direct medical costs exceeded $408 million in 2018. Conclusions Achalasia has a higher epidemiologic and economic burden in the US than previously suggested, with diagnosis particularly increasing in older patients.
Perioperative outcome of Whipple’s procedure with special attention to the impact of preoperative biliary drainage: a real-life scenario

The aim of the present study is to report the overall perioperative outcome of Whipple’s procedure (WP) with particular attention to the impact of preoperative biliary drainage (PBD) on postoperative clinical outcome. All the patients who underwent WP at our institution between August 2007 and December 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. Impact of PBD and the stent-surgery interval on the postoperative clinical outcome of WP were analyzed. Of the total 404 patients, 254 (63%) were male. The median age at operation was 50 years. The overall morbidity was 57.7%. The most common complication was surgical site infection (SSI) (28.7%). POPF developed in 57 (14.1%) patients. Delayed gastric emptying, intra-abdominal collection, and postpancreatectomy hemorrhage developed in 82 (20%), 23 (5.7%), and 18 (4.5%) patients, respectively. PBD was performed in 175 (43%) patients. The median stent-surgery interval was 59 days. Postoperative overall complications and SSI were significantly more common in PBD patients. No significant difference in postoperative major complications or mortality was observed between PBD and no-PBD patients. Stent-surgery interval more than 6 weeks was not associated with increased postoperative complications or hospital stay. Similarly, PBD solely based on serum bilirubin ≥ 15 mg/dl has no beneficial effect on surgical outcome. The operative mortality was 4.2% (n = 17). The median postoperative hospital stay was 13 (7–68) days. PBD is associated with increased incidence of postoperative overall complications and SSI, but does not affect major complications or mortality. PBD-surgery interval greater than 6 weeks does not have a negative impact on postoperative clinical outcomes.
Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Online: A Journey of Challenges and Triumphs

In June 2005, three State University of New York (SUNY) campuses, namely Stony Brook University, the University at Buffalo, and Binghamton University, joined forces to provide a completely online electrical engineering program that would lead to a bachelor of science in electrical engineering (BSEE) degree. The program was put together to serve a nontraditional student body that is otherwise unable to achieve higher education in electrical engineering. The project was jump-started by an award from the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation. This multi-institutional approach was an effective medium for sharing the resources and revenue of the online offering of courses. The Sloan Foundation grant initiated a big step toward the "Learning Anywhere, Anytime" vision for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education. It helped to set up the infrastructure of an ambitious joint venture among the three SUNY campuses to collaborate on a jointly offered program.
The implementation of reciprocal imitation training in a Part C early intervention setting: A stepped-wedge pragmatic trial

Despite the development of several evidence-based Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Interventions (NDBIs), very few have been adapted for use in community-based settings. This study examines the implementation of Reciprocal Imitation Training (RIT)-an NDBI-by community Early Intervention (EI; IDEA Part C) providers serving toddlers from birth to 3 years. Of the 87 EI providers enrolled from 9 agencies in 4 counties across Washington State, 66 were included in the current sample. A stepped-wedge design was used to randomly assign counties to the timing of RIT training workshops. Self-report measures of practice and self-efficacy regarding ASD care were collected at baseline (T1, T2) and 6-months and 12-months post-training (T3, T4). At T3 and T4, providers reported on RIT adoption and rated items about RIT feasibility and perceived RIT effectiveness; at T4, they also reported on child characteristics that led to RIT use and modifications. From pre-training to post-training, there were significant increases in providers' self-efficacy in providing services to children with ASD or suspected ASD. At T3 and T4, provider ratings indicated high levels of RIT adoption, feasibility, and perceived RIT effectiveness. At T4, providers indicated that they most commonly: (a) initiated RIT when there were social-communication or motor imitation delays, or an ASD diagnosis; and (b) made modifications to RIT by repeating elements, blending it with other therapies, and loosening its structure. While additional research is needed, RIT may help families get an early start on accessing specialized treatment within an established infrastructure available across the United States. LAY SUMMARY: Reciprocal imitation training (RIT) is an evidence-based treatment for ASD that might be a good fit for use by intervention providers in widely accessible community-based settings. After attending an educational workshop on RIT, providers reported feeling more comfortable providing services to families with ASD concerns, used RIT with over 400 families, and believed that RIT improved important social communication behaviors.
Rational Principles of Psychopharmacology for Therapists, Healthcare Providers and Clients

Because the epidemic dispensing of psychiatric drugs is based on misinformation, it is important for all health professionals, consumers, and most citizens (including patients and their family members) to have a more rational understanding of how psychiatric drugs actually “work.” Instead of enforcing authoritarian “medication compliance” in obedience to the prescriber’s orders, informed therapists and healthcare providers have an ethical duty to provide scientific information about the real effects of psychiatric drugs. Instead of naively accepting whatever the doctor prescribes to them, consumers need to educate themselves about all medications, but especially about psychiatric ones, which are consistently misrepresented and oversold. This review focuses on three principles of rational psychopharmacology. The first is the brain-disabling principle, which states that all psychoactive substances work by causing dysfunctions of the brain and mind. It further observes that no psychiatric drugs work by improving or correcting biochemical imbalances or any other presumed biological malfunctions. The second principle is intoxication anosognosia (medication spellbinding) which states that all psychoactive substances tend to cause a subjective over-estimation of their positive effects while masking their harmful ones, sometimes resulting in extremely harmful behaviors such as mania, violence and suicide. The third principle is chronic brain impairment (CBI)—that exposure to psychoactive substances, especially long-term, results in impairments of the brain or mind that can become persistent or permanent, including atrophy (shrinkage) of brain tissue. Not only are psychiatric drugs likely to do more harm than good, there are more effective and infinitely safer proven psychosocial approaches for treating the whole spectrum of “psychiatric disorders” from “ADHD” and “major depressive disorder” to “schizophrenia.”
Introduction to Hypersonic Flows

In the previous chapters, compressibility effects are covered, particularly in the transonic regime where the Mach number is close to one.
An optimal control problem for flows with discontinuities

In this paper, we study a design problem for a duct flow with a shock. The presence of the shock causes numerical difficulties. Good shock-capturing schemes with low continuity properties often cannot be combined successfully with efficient optimization methods requiring smooth functions. A remedy studied in this paper is to introduce the shock location as an explicit variable. This allows one to fit the shock and yields a problem with sufficiently smooth functions. We prove the existence of optimal solutions, Frechet differentiability, and the existence of Lagrange multipliers. In the second part, we introduce and investigate the discrete problem and study the relations between the optimality conditions for the infinite-dimensional problem and the discretized one. This reveals important information for the numerical solution of the problem. Numerical examples are given to demonstrate the theoretical findings.
Finding incident breast cancer cases through US claims data and a state cancer registry.

Objective: With the increasing availability of automated health-care data, new methods are available to screen large populations for the presence of cancer diagnoses. However, it is crucial to evaluate how completely incident cancer cases can be ascertained using these data sources. Methods: We used capture–recapture techniques to estimate the total number of incident breast cancer cases occurring within one state during a 3-year period. We then compared the ascertainment of these cases by the following two data sources: claims for breast cancer surgery recorded in Medicaid and Medicare data vs a cancer registry in the same state. Results: Medicaid–Medicare breast cancer surgery claims identified 68% of the total estimated number of incident breast cancer cases while cancer registry data identified 78%. Case ascertainment improved markedly to 91% when both registry and Medicare–Medicaid data sources were used together. The sensitivity of ascertainment was lower for Medicaid–Medicare data among those aged under 65 and non-white; ascertainment was lower for the registry among women who were aged under 65, poor, and non-white. Conclusions: Combining health insurance claims data with a population-based cancer registry improved the identification of incident cases of breast cancer, and may be particularly useful among demographic groups found to be at highest risk of under-ascertainment such as younger women, the poor, and racial minorities.