cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Automatic Modeling of Planar-Hinged Buildings

We present a framework to automatically model and reconstruct buildings in a dense urban area. Our method is robust to noise and recovers planar features and sharp edges, prod ucing a water-tight triangulation suitable for texture mapping and interactive rendering. Building and architectural prio rs, such as the Manhattan world and Atlanta world assumptions, have been used to improve the quality of recons tructions. We extend the framework to include buildings consisting of arbitrary planar faces interconnected by hin ges. Given millions of initial 3D points and normals (i.e., via an image-based reconstruction), we estimate the lo cation and properties of the building model hinges and planar segments. Then, starting with a closed Poisson tr we use an energy-based metric to iteratively refine the initial model so as to attempt to recover the planar -hinged model and maintain building details where possible. Our results include automatically reconstruc ting a variety of buildings spanning a large and dense urban area, comparisons, and analysis of our meth od. The end product is an automatic method to produce watertight models that are very suitable for 3D city modeling and c
Collision Detection in Cluttered Driving Scenes

The purpose of the present experiment was to examine whether drivers’ detection of collisions was altered when the driving scene was cluttered with scene objects. In this experiment stationary scene objects were manipulated by positioning them behind an approaching object and driver motion induced. The authors found that observers’ collision detection performance (d’) decreased with the presence of scene objects. These results indicate that the ability to detect a collision is altered by the presence of scene objects. In addition, performance was dependent on display duration, with greater sensitivity at increased durations. Moreover, the results showed a significant criterion shift between scene objects present and scene objects absent, with a decrease in identifying a collision object (hit rate) when scene objects were present but no difference in identification of a collision event when scene objects were absent. This suggests that the decreased performance was due to the inability to accurately determine a collision event because of apparent motion of background scene objects due to driver motion. Because the displays used in this experiment are akin to driving in a cluttered environment, the results of this research have important implications regarding driving safety and crash rates particularly in urban environments with complex scenes. Specifically, the results suggest that one factor in cluttered driving scenes is the apparent motion of background scene objects due to driver motion.
Commentary on Photoacoustic Tomography

Substantial funding, notably from the National Cancer Institute of the United States, over the past 10 y has greatly promoted noninvasive approaches to studying pathophysiology, tumor progression, and response to therapy as well as pharmacokinetics and biodistribution of potential therapeutics. Many
Ethics Education: Three Issues for Further Discussion

As the title of the book indicates, the focus is on the application of ethics to the marketing field. The authors argue that "good marketing strategies and good ethics [is there "bad" ethics?] are inextricably and positively linked ... taking the higher road is most often good business strategy, provides for long term organ? izational profitability, and stands resolutely as the 'proper' thing to do." Before I offer a few thoughts for reflection, discussion, or argumentation, I will briefly identify three stylistic features of the book and provide a synopsis of the struc? ture of the book.
Nanofabrication of Functional Nanostructures by Thermochemical Nanolithography

Nanofabrication is the process of building functional structures with nanoscale dimensions, which can be used as components, devices, or systems with high density, in large quantities, and at low cost. Since the invention of scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) in 1980s, the application of scanning probe based lithography (SPL) techniques for modification of substrates and creation of functional nanoscale structures and nanostructured materials has been widespread, resulting in the emergence of a large variety of methodologies. In this chapter, we review the recent development of a thermal probe based nanofabrication technique called thermochemical nanolithography (TCNL). We start with a brief review of the evolution of the thermal AFM probes integrated with resistive heaters. We then provide an overview of some established nanofabrication techniques in which thermal probes are used, namely thermomechanical nanolithography, the Millipede project, and thermal dip-pen nanolithography. We discuss the heat transfer mechanisms of the thermal probes in the thermal writing process of TCNL. The remainder of the chapter focuses on the use of TCNL on a variety of systems and thermochemical reactions. TCNL has been successfully used for fabrication of functional nanostructures that are appealing for various applications in nanofluidics, nanoelectronics, nanophotonics, and biosensing devices. Finally, we close this chapter by discussing some future research directions where the capabilities and robustness of TCNL can be further extended.
Progesterone rapidly reduces arterial pressure in ewes

Chronic progesterone treatment decreases mean arterial pressure (MAP) and expands plasma volume. Evidence now suggests that progesterone metabolites have rapid nongenomic actions on the baroreflex. This experiment tests for a rapid effect of progesterone on MAP,Na+, arginine vasopressin, and baroreflex sensitivity. Ewes were studied during 2-h infusions of vehicle or progesterone at 3 and 6 micrograms.kg-1.min-1. Infusion of progesterone at 3 micrograms.kg-1.min-1 resulted in progesterone levels characteristic of ovine pregnancy and significantly reduced MAP by the 17th minute, suggesting a nongenomic mechanism. However, progesterone infusion at 6 micrograms.kg-1.min-1 produced supraphysiological progesterone levels and failed to modify MAP. Overall baroreflex sensitivity was not altered by either dose of progesterone, but the slope of the tachycardic response to hypotension tended to be attenuated after infusion of progesterone at 6 micrograms.kg-1.min-1. We speculate that the lack of a simple, linear dose-response effect of progesterone on blood pressure and baroreflex sensitivity can be explained by progesterone action at multiple receptor populations.
Effect of adjunctive modafinil on wakefulness and quality of life in patients with excessive sleepiness-associated obstructive sleep apnoea/hypopnoea syndrome: a 12-month, open-label extension study.

Objective: To evaluate the long-term effect on wakefulness, functional status and quality of life and tolerability of adjunctive modafinil in continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP)-treated patients with residual excessive sleepiness (ES) associated with obstructive sleep apnoea/hypopnoea syndrome (OSA/HS). Study design: 12-month, open-label extension of a 12-week, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Setting: Thirty-seven centres in the US and four in the UK. Patients: Two hundred and sixty-six patients experiencing ES associated with OSA/HS who completed at least 8 weeks of the 12-week double-blind study, and who received adequate education and intervention efforts to encourage use of nasal CPAP (nCPAP). Intervention: Patients receiving nCPAP therapy were administered modafinil 200 mg/day during week 1, 300 mg/day during week 2, and then 200, 300 or 400 mg/day, based on the investigator’s assessment of efficacy and tolerability, for the remainder of the study. Main outcome measures: Assessments included the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), Functional Outcomes of Sleep Questionnaire (FOSQ) and Short Form-36 Health Survey (SF-36). Results: One hundred and seventy five patients (66%) completed the study. Modafinil maintained a significant effect on wakefulness, as shown by improvement in the ESS total score at months 3, 6, 9 and 12 compared with baseline (all p < 0.0001). Modafinil also improved functional status (FOSQ total score) and general health (SF-36 mental and physical component scores) at months 6 and 12 compared with baseline (all p < 0.05). Modafinil was well tolerated. The most common adverse events reported were infection (11.3%), headache (9.4%) and nervousness (9.0%). Serious adverse events were reported in 13 patients, with two of these events (mild bradycardia and severe syncope, both in the same patient) considered to be possibly related to modafinil. There were few clinically meaningful changes in clinical laboratory data, vital signs, physical examination findings or ECG results. Important changes included significant increase in blood pressure in six patients, five of whom had a history of hypertension. Conclusions: Adjunctive modafinil maintained effects on wakefulness and functional outcomes, and improved quality of life in patients with OSA/HS experiencing residual ES over a 12-month period. Modafinil was well tolerated during long-term therapy.
Abrupt Decline in Tuberculosis among Foreign-Born Persons in the United States

While the number of reported tuberculosis (TB) cases in the United States has declined over the past two decades, TB morbidity among foreign-born persons has remained persistently elevated. A recent unexpected decline in reported TB cases among foreign-born persons beginning in 2007 provided an opportunity to examine contributing factors and inform future TB control strategies. We investigated the relative influence of three factors on the decline: 1) changes in the size of the foreign-born population through immigration and emigration, 2) changes in distribution of country of origin among foreign-born persons, and 3) changes in the TB case rates among foreign-born subpopulations. Using data from the U.S. National Tuberculosis Surveillance System and the American Community Survey, we examined TB case counts, TB case rates, and population estimates, stratified by years since U.S. entry and country of origin. Regression modeling was used to assess statistically significant changes in trend. Among foreign-born recent entrants (<3 years since U.S. entry), we found a 39.5% decline (-1,013 cases) beginning in 2007 (P<0.05 compared to 2000–2007) and ending in 2011 (P<0.05 compared to 2011–2014). Among recent entrants from Mexico, 80.7% of the decline was attributable to a decrease in population, while the declines among recent entrants from the Philippines, India, Vietnam, and China were almost exclusively (95.5%–100%) the result of decreases in TB case rates. Among foreign-born non-recent entrants (≥3 years since U.S. entry), we found an 8.9% decline (-443 cases) that resulted entirely (100%) from a decrease in the TB case rate. Both recent and non-recent entrants contributed to the decline in TB cases; factors contributing to the decline among recent entrants varied by country of origin. Strategies that impact both recent and non-recent entrants (e.g., investment in overseas TB control) as well as those that focus on non-recent entrants (e.g., expanded targeted testing of high-risk subgroups among non-recent entrants) will be necessary to achieve further declines in TB morbidity among foreign-born persons.
Peritoneal endometriosis in women requesting reversal of sterilization

Seventy-six women requesting reversal of sterilization underwent at least 1 operative procedure during a 27-month period, and 14 (18.4%) were found to have pelvic endometriosis. The endometriosis patients were noted to have had significantly fewer pregnancies (1.8 versus 2.9, P
Lung tumors in rats treated with N-nitrosoheptamethyleneimine and N-nitrosooctamethyleneimine.

SummaryTwo new cyclic nitrosamines, nitrosoheptamethyleneimine and nitrosooctamethyleneimine, have been prepared and tested biologically by feeding to rats in drinking water, at two concentrations, 50 and 200 mg/liter. Both nitrosamines produced a high incidence of squamous carcinomas in the lung and of squamous tumors in the esophagus. The lower dose of the compounds did not seem less effective than the 200 mg/liter concentration. Nitrosooctamethyleneimine appeared to be a less potent tumorigen than nitrosoheptamethyleneimine, the latter giving rise to lung tumors after less than 16 weeks treatment, and to esophageal tumors after 7 weeks. Although large single doses of both nitrosamines caused rapid death of the animals with severe necrosis of the liver, there were no tumors or other lesions of the liver in animals treated chronically.
Main pests and diseases and their integrated control measures in Quanzhou Forest Park

According to the data from recent 5 years survey,there were 23 species of pests and 3 diseases in Quanzhou Forest Park.Major pests were Hemiberlesia pitysophila,Monochamus alternatus,Odontotermes formosanus,Rhynchophorus ferrugineus,Chilades pandava,Diaphania angustalis,and piercing-sucking insects such as aphids,scale insects,whitefly and psylla.In view of the special location of the forest park in the seacoastal city,the principles and measures to control the pests and diseases have been proposed,meanwhile a calendar on pests and diseases control measures in accordance with the southern Fujian climate and for park building and maintenance in the seacoastal city has been worked out.
Co2+ as a shift reagent for 35Cl NMR of chloride with vesicles and cells

Applications of high-resolution 35Cl NMR to the study of chloride in vivo and in vesicles have hitherto been limited by problems of NMR detectability and of resolving internal from external signals. We have characterized the effects of Co2+ on the 35Cl resonance of Cl- in solution and have shown that when added to suspensions of lipid vesicles, Co2+ shifts the 35Cl signal of the extravesicular Cl-, allowing clear resolution and quantitation of two peaks. We have assigned these signals to chloride inside and outside the vesicles. The spectra do not change over a 90-min period, demonstrating the stability of the vesicles in the presence of Co2+. This technique is shown to be applicable to red blood cell ghosts, where intravesicular and extravesicular chloride signals were separated and measured and chloride/sulfate exchange through the band 3 anion transport protein A was followed. In two plant species (an alga and a higher plant), an intracellular Cl- signal can be observed and resolved from the extracellular signal. The intracellular transportable chloride was found to be fully NMR-visible (+/- 5%) in the algal cells. The high steady-state levels of Cl- seen in the alga were consistent with previous work using 36Cl- labeling on a related species [Doblinger, R., & Tromballa, H.W. (1982) Planta 156, 10-15]. Successive spectra acquired after adding Co2+ to Chlorella cells under deenergizing conditions allow us to follow the time course of movement of Cl- out of the cells.
Impact of biochemical composition on susceptibility of algal biomass to acid-catalyzed pretreatment for sugar and lipid recovery

Abstract One of the major challenges associated with algal biofuels production in a biorefinery-type setting is improving biomass utilization in its entirety, increasing the process energetic yields and providing economically viable and scalable co-product concepts. We focus on the impact of compositional characteristics of biomass on the susceptibility to pretreatment in order to maximize the valorization of algal biomass conversion for biofuels and bioproducts. The release of monomeric carbohydrates in the aqueous phase and extractability of the lipid fraction was measured based a response surface methodology to find significant explanatory variables and interaction terms. We studied the effect of harvest timing on the conversion yields, using three algal strains; Chlorella vulgaris and Scenedesmus acutus and Nannochloropsis granulata representing three different nutritional metabolic phases. Four cultivation conditions of high (≥ 90 gallon gasoline equivalent/ton biomass) value for a combined sugar- and lipid-based biofuels process were identified. These four conditions represent either mid or late stage harvest cultivation regimes. The results indicate that acid pretreatment has potential to be applicable for a vast range of biomass samples to obtain high energy yields, but that the exact conditions and optima are dependent on the strain and likely the starting composition of the biomass.
Reseña de Tirso de Molina, «Amar por arte mayor», edición crítica, estudio y notas de Enrique García Santo-Tomás, New York/Madrid/Pamplona, IDEA/IET, 2015, 176 pp. ISBN: 978-1-938795-01-5

Review of Tirso de Molina, «Amar por arte mayor», edicion critica, estudio y notas de Enrique Garcia Santo-Tomas, New York/Madrid/Pamplona, IDEA/IET, 2015, 176 pp. ISBN: 978-1-938795-01-5
A Primer on Using Spreadsheets

This chapter explores the use of Excel spreadsheets, beginning at the most primary concepts of handling a mouse—pointing and clicking—and opening a spreadsheet with it, and goes on to illustrate all valuable information about Excel. All the functions and tools of the subject are explained with diagrams, menu items are focused upon, and every action that can be performed is discussed in a step-by-step approach for beginners. Creating and opening files, basic handling, using dialog boxes, cell formatting, use of charts, and formulating equations are discussed in detail. Use of pivot tables as a powerful option available in Excel to easily manipulate large amounts of tabulated data into organized forms for quick analysis is explained. Apart from these elementary aspects, procedures, such as using macros and data analysis in calculation are discussed with diagrams. Macros are programs that automate a number of steps involved in calculations into a single or a few steps. When worksheets involve a number of repetitive steps, macros are extremely useful in saving time.
Dynamic fault weakening and strengthening by gouge compaction and dilatancy in a fluid-saturated fault zone

Fault gouge deformation likely plays a significant role in controlling the strength of mature, large-displacement faults. Experiments show that intact gouge deforms in an overall ductile and stable manner, readily compacting, but dilates and experiences brittle failure under large strain rate. Inelastic gouge compaction and dilatancy are modeled here using a combined Mohr-Coulomb and end-cap yield criterion in a dynamic rupture model of a strike-slip fault with strongly velocity-weakening friction. We show that large shear stress concentration ahead of the rupture associated with the rupture front causes the gouge layer to compact (e.g., by structural collapse and comminution), leading to rapidly elevated pore pressure and significant weakening of the principal fault surface. Shortly after the rupture front passes, strong dilatancy during strength drop and rapid sliding reduces pore pressure and strengthens the fault, promoting slip pulses. Large strain localization in the gouge layer occurs as a result of rapid gouge dilatancy and strain softening. The combination of pre-rupture weakening from compaction and restrengthening from dilatancy hardening leads to a smaller strength drop, and limits the stress concentration outside the gouge layer. This leads to a reduction of inelastic shear strain in the damage zone, which is more consistent with geological observations and high-speed frictional experiments. With the presence of well-developed fault gouge, the strength of mature faults may be limited by end-cap, rather than Mohr-Coulomb failure; thus, their frictional strengths are significantly smaller than Byerlee friction.
QDEVS natural coupled simulation of a microgrid

Simulation is a fundamental tool for the design of next generation power systems. At the same time, existing simulation methods are inadequate to tackle the complexity of such systems. In this paper we present a simulation approach based on the combination of Quantized Discrete Event System Specification (QDEVS) and the Latency Insertion Method (LIM). The combination of these two approaches leads to the definition of a simulation method which is highly parallelizable, capable of updating individual models asynchronously, and with performance automatically adaptable to different levels of desired detail. After the description of the method we illustrate the performance of the proposed simulation method using a microgrid example.
A Physics-Based Crystallographic Modeling Framework for Describing the Thermal Creep Behavior of Fe-Cr Alloys

In this work, a physics-based thermal creep model is developed based on the understanding of the microstructure in Fe-Cr alloys. This model is associated with a transition state theory-based framework that considers the distribution of internal stresses at sub-material point level. The thermally activated dislocation glide and climb mechanisms are coupled in the obstacle-bypass processes for both dislocation and precipitate-type barriers. A kinetic law is proposed to track the dislocation densities evolution in the subgrain interior and in the cell wall. The predicted results show that this model, embedded in the visco-plastic self-consistent framework, captures well the creep behaviors for primary and steady-state stages under various loading conditions. The roles of the mechanisms involved are also discussed.
Dorsal Root Ganglia Mitochondrial Biochemical Changes in Non-diabetic and Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Mice Fed with a Standard or High-Fat Diet

Background: Mitochondrial dysfunction is purported as a contributory mechanism underlying diabetic neuropathy, but a defined role for damaged mitochondria in diabetic nerves remains unclear, particularly in standard diabetes models. Experiments here used a high-fat diet in attempt to exacerbate the severity of diabetes and expedite the time-course in which mitochondrial dysfunction may occur. We hypothesized a high-fat diet in addition to diabetes would increase stress on sensory neurons and worsen mitochondrial dysfunction. Methods: Oxidative phosphorylation proteins and proteins associated with mitochondrial function were quantified in lumbar dorsal root ganglia. Comparisons were made between non-diabetic and streptozotocininduced (STZ) C57Bl/6 mice fed a standard or high-fat diet for 8 weeks. Results: Complex III subunit Core-2 and voltage dependent anion channel were increased (by 36% and 28% respectively, p<0.05) in diabetic mice compared to nondiabetic mice fed the standard diet. There were no differences among groups in UCP2, PGC-1α, PGC-1β levels or Akt, mTor, or AMPK activation. These data suggest compensatory mitochondrial biogenesis occurs to offset potential mitochondrial dysfunction after 8 weeks of STZinduced diabetes, but a high-fat diet does not alter these parameters. Conclusion: Our results indicate mitochondrial protein changes early in STZ-induced diabetes. Interestingly, a high-fat diet does not appear to affect mitochondrial proteins in either nondiabetic or STZ- diabetic mice.
Relational Contracts and the Theory of the Firm: A Renegotiation-Proof Approach

I analyze the effect of long-term relations on the property rights theory of the firm when agents are allowed to renegotiate relational contracts. Renegotiation proof relational contracts exists when agents's actions affect the structure of the game. In this setting, repeated relations change some of the predictions of the property rights theory of the firm. Single ownership dominates joint ownership when the discount factor is very high or very low, however there exists a mid-region where other ownership structures including joint ownership become optimal. Joint ownership has a higher chance of being optimal in industries where agents' actions affect the structure of the game, i.e. where reputation and network effects are important. Keywords: theory of the firm, relational contracts, joint ventures, optimal ownership structure.
Medical applications of conformai flexible antennas

Flexible conformai antennas are developed for medical applications. The overall antenna thicknesses are thin and processed on flexible substrates. In addition to normal metallic antennas, slotted versions are developed so that they can be more flexible and cover wider frequency ranges. Various antenna configurations such as Composite Right/Left-Handed (CRLH), fractal, elongated circular and logarithmic spiral antennas were processed. Possible applications are listed.
The Beginning of the End: Bulgakov and the Ascension:

This paper analyzes Sergius N. Bulgakov’s unique interpretation of the Ascension of Jesus Christ. Drawing from the Orthodox liturgy and the New Testament, Bulgakov argues that the Ascension of Jesu...
Delay discounting associated with challenges to treatment adherence and glycemic control in young adults with type 1 diabetes.

Abstract Introduction Many young adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D) face challenges in adherence to self-management practices and have above-target HbA1c. Poorer decision-making skills, indicated by greater delay discounting, may be linked to these factors. Methods An online survey using social media ads targeted young adults aged 18–26 with T1D. Participants completed the Self-Care Inventory and the 5-trial delay discounting task and self-reported their last HbA1c value. Results Discounting was significantly associated with treatment adherence (r = −.14, p Discussion These results expand the literature on cognitive factors and glycemic control among patients with T1D. Factors like delay discounting represent potentially modifiable risk factors targetable through interventions.
Regulatory sequences for expressing genes in oomycete fungi.

Promoter and terminator sequences from a range of species were tested for activity in the oomycetes, a group of lower fungi that bear an uncertain taxonomic affinity to other organisms and in which little is known of the sequences required for transcription. Transient assays, using the reporter gene β-glucuronidase (GUS), were used to examine the function of these promoters and terminators in the plant pathogens Phytophthora infestans and P. megasperma f. sp. glycinea, and in the saprophytic water mold, Achlya ambisexualis. Oomycete promoters, isolated from the ham34 and hsp70 genes of Bremia lactucae and the actin gene of P. megasperma f. sp. glycinea, resulted in high levels of GUS accumulation in each of the three oomycetes. In contrast, little or no activity was detected when promoters from higher fungi (four ascomycetes and one basidiomycete), plants, and animals were tested. The terminator from the ham34 gene resulted in much higher levels of GUS accumulation than did others, although an oomycete terminator was not absolutely required for expression. Transcript mapping of RNA from stable transformants confirmed accurate initiation from the B. lactucae hsp70 promoter and termination within 3′ ham34 sequences in P. infestans. Our results indicate that the transcriptional machinery of the oomycetes differs significantly from that of the higher fungi, but that enough conservation exists within the class to allow vectors developed from one oomycete species to be used for others.
(A)-tail of two polymerase structures.

The recently solved crystal structures of the yeast and bovine poly(A) polymerases add to the growing list of high resolution RNA polymerase structures and provide a basis for understanding the specifics of template-independent RNA polymerization.
Rumor has it: The effects of virality metrics on rumor believability and transmission on Twitter:

This study examines the effects of virality metrics on the judgment of a rumor on Twitter. In an online experiment (N = 203), a tweet about the rumor related to the issue of food safety was present...
Bipartite and Eulerian minors

Abstract This paper defines the related notions of bipartite and Eulerian minors for binary matroids. Using these definitions, it characterizes graphic matroids within the classes of bipartite binary matroids and Eulerian binary matroids by the exclusion of certain bipartite minors and Eulerian minors, respectively. This result on Eulerian minors in binary matroids extends a result of Chudnovsky et al. who characterized planar graphs within the class of bipartite graphs by the exclusion of K 3 , 3 as a bipartite minor.
Alagille Syndrome: Overview and Introduction

The manifestations of Alagille syndrome include the most complex and most interesting of all pediatric liver diseases. The hepatic disease of ALGS ranges from inconsequential to failure, and the manifestations in many other organs also vary from trivial to catastrophic. The dominant mode of inheritance and the common occurrence of de novo mutations have led to fascinating genetic discoveries, and the presence of a normal gene in all affected individuals may lead to novel genetic therapies based on regulation of gene expression. The ALGS is the most extensively studied of any single gene defect that is involved in human embryogenesis. Notch signaling is an important mechanism for cell to cell communication, having developed early on in evolution, and it is highly conserved in all species studied. While much has been learned about the Alagille syndrome over the 50 years since its first description, there are many current clinical challenges and opportunities for the development of novel and effective therapies. In the subsequent chapters of this book, the extensive compilation of the knowledge about Alagille syndrome and Notch signaling will serve as a framework for investigation and discovery into the mechanisms and therapies of this extremely important and fascinating disease.
Economic Pressure, Parent Positivity, Positive Parenting, and Child Social Competence

The current study examined how economic pressure impacts parental positivity and positive parenting separately for mothers and fathers, as well as how positivity and parenting impact child social competence. This study included 207 mothers, fathers, and their first-born child from toddlerhood through the preschool years. This study employed an Actor–Partner Interdependence Model which was developed to handle dyadic relationships to investigate the association between economic pressure, parental positivity, and positive parenting, separately for mother and father and the interdependent associations between them. Results showed that economic pressure when the child was age 2 (Time 1) was negatively associated with maternal and paternal positivity and father positive parenting when the child was 3-4 years old (Time 2). Maternal positivity was associated with paternal positivity and mother positive parenting was associated with father positive parenting. In addition, maternal positivity was associated with mother positive parenting while paternal positivity was not significantly related to father positive parenting at Time 2. Parental positivity and positive parenting at Time 2 were both associated with child social competence at age 5 (Time 3), even after controlling for child social competence at age 2 (Time 1). The current results suggest that both maternal and paternal positivity and positive parenting are important protective factors for young children’s social competence even under times of economic adversity.
Klf4, Klf2, and Zfp148 activate autophagy-related genes in smooth muscle cells during aortic aneurysm formation

Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) are a progressive dilation of the aorta that is characterized by an initial influx of inflammatory cells followed by a pro-inflammatory, migratory, proliferative, and eventually apoptotic smooth muscle cell phenotype. In recent years, the mechanisms related to the initial influx of inflammatory cells have become well-studied; the mechanisms related to chronic aneurysm formation, smooth muscle cell apoptosis and death are less well-characterized. Autophagy is a generally believed to be a protective cellular mechanism that functions to recycle defective proteins and cellular organelles to maintain cellular homeostasis. Our goal with the present study was to investigate the role of autophagy in smooth muscle cells during AAA formation. Levels of the autophagy factors, Beclin, and LC3 were elevated in human and mouse AAA tissue via both qPCR and immunohistochemical analysis. Confocal staining in human and mouse AAA tissue demonstrated Beclin and LC3 were present in smooth muscle cells during AAA formation. Treatment of smooth muscle cells with porcine pancreatic elastase or interleukin (IL)-1β activated autophagy-related genes in vitro while treatment with a siRNA to Kruppel-like transcription factor 4 (Klf4), Kruppel-like transcription factor 2 (Klf2) or Zinc-finger protein 148 (Zfp148) separately inhibited activation of autophagy genes. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays demonstrated that Klf4, Klf2, and Zfp148 separately bind autophagy genes in smooth muscle cells following elastase treatment. These results demonstrate that autophagy is an important mechanism related to Klfs in smooth muscle cells during AAA formation.
Early Modern Developments in Italy and France (1400s–1600s)

This chapter considers the emergence of Italian humanism, through ancient influences, with neoclassical rules, perspective scenery, Torelli’s scene-changing device, opera, commedia dell’arte, and new theatres, including Teatro Olimpico, which still has its original set for Sophocles’s Oedipus the King. Then it investigates the adoption of neoclassical rules, scenic devices, and commedia by French theatres, plus court ballets and machine plays. It explores the tensions that developed between moral restraint and pleasurable spectacle, political order and satirical insight—in the French Academy’s critique of Corneille’s Le Cid, other attacks on Moliere’s Tartuffe, and the king’s expulsion of the Comedie Italienne.
Mixed Reality Patients Monitoring Application for Critical Care Nurses

Recent research and development projects have demonstrated the use of virtual reality (VR) technology in the healthcare environment, although most applications are still limited to medical simulations and training applications. Whereas VR removes a user from their immediate environment, augmented and mixed reality (AR/MR) adds virtual content to a user's immediate environment. We endeavor to develop an MR application for hospital medical providers which will enable them to directly monitor any patient and their pertinent medical information from any location, at a glance. With this system, the provider could view a live-stream of patients from other locations and their vital signs to provide information for rapid medical decision making. Such application could significantly improve patient safety, allow quicker response times for emergency and critical situations, and reduce medical errors. It could also enhance the effectiveness of the medical team and allow the providers to more closely monitor their patients, improving patient care outcomes and decreasing costs. A prototype of this proposed MR application is developed with a state-of-the-art head mounted display and the result is presented below.
Cloud detection over snow and ice with oxygen A- and B-band observations from the Earth Polychromatic Imaging Camera (EPIC)

Abstract. Satellite cloud detection over snow and ice has been difficult for passive remote sensing instruments due to the lack of contrast between clouds and cold/bright surfaces; cloud mask algorithms often heavily rely on shortwave infrared (IR) channels over such surfaces. The Earth Polychromatic Imaging Camera (EPIC) on board the Deep Space Climate Observatory (DSCOVR) does not have infrared channels, which makes cloud detection over snow and ice surfaces even more challenging. This study investigates the methodology of applying EPIC's two oxygen absorption band pair ratios in the A band (764, 780 nm) and B band (688, 680 nm) for cloud detection over the snow and ice surfaces. We develop a novel elevation and zenith-angle-dependent threshold scheme based on radiative transfer model simulations that achieves significant improvements over the existing algorithm. When compared against a composite cloud mask based on geosynchronous Earth orbit (GEO) and low Earth orbit (LEO) sensors, the positive detection rate over snow and ice surfaces increased from around 36 % to 65 % while the false detection rate dropped from 50 % to 10 % for observations of January 2016 and 2017. The improvement in July is less substantial due to relatively better performance in the current algorithm. The new algorithm is applicable for all snow and ice surfaces including Antarctic, sea ice, high-latitude snow, and high-altitude glacier regions. This method is less reliable when clouds are optically thin or below 3 km because the sensitivity is low in oxygen band ratios for these cases.
Mandibular ceramic veneers: an examination of diverse cases integrating form, function, and aesthetics

Mandibular anterior ceramic veneers, though used less frequently than maxillary anterior ceramic veneers, are highly useful for certain case conditions. The learning objective of this article is to explore the indications, tooth preparation design, provisionalization considerations, and placement procedures for these conservative aesthetic restorations. In addition, their functional utility, tissue biocompatibility, and variances from maxillary anterior ceramic veneers are discussed by means of several different case reports.
3D printing technologies: techniques, materials, and post-processing

Additive manufacturing, or more commonly known as 3D printing, has been at the forefront of manufacturing research for the past couple decades. Many advances have occurred in the basic printing techniques, materials, and post-processing schemes. In recent years, there have been many critical developments in the field 3D printing, such as the development of volumetric 3D printing to increase the printing speed, composite 3D printing to create piezoelectric devices, and hydrogel structures highly similar to blood vessels. The spectrum of materials that can be printed has also increased, allowing researchers to print a variety of materials including live cells, modulus changing polymers and even spacecraft-grade metals.
PD-1+ Treg cells: a foe in cancer immunotherapy?

The mechanisms that drive responses to PD-1-blocking immunotherapy in some but not all patients have been puzzling. A new study suggests that the balance of PD-1 expression levels between CD8+ T cells and Treg cells might provide an answer.
Ulysses' pact or Ulysses' raft: Using pre‐analysis plans in experimental and nonexperimental research

Economists have recently adopted pre‐analysis plans in response to concerns about robustness and transparency in research. The increased use of registered pre‐analysis plans has raised competing concerns that detailed plans are costly to create, overly restrictive, and limit the type of inspiration that stems from exploratory analysis. We consider these competing views of pre‐analysis plans, and make a careful distinction between the roles of pre‐analysis plans and registries, which provide a record of all planned research. We propose a flexible “packraft” pre‐analysis plan approach that offers benefits for a wide variety of experimental and nonexperimental applications in applied economics. JEL CLASSIFICATION A14; B41; C12; C18; C90; O10; Q00
Video: Menschen zu Menschen sprechen lassen

Steigender Personalbedarf in einem stark umkampften Arbeitsmarkt: Das erfordert ein Umdenken in den HR-Abteilungen, der Bewerbungsprozess muss auf den Kopf gestellt werden. Das nehmen die Verkehrsbetriebe Zurich (VBZ) wortlich. Seit dem Jahr 2010 setzen sie in ihrer Personalmarketing-Strategie konsequent auf das Medium Video. Sie lassen Menschen zu Menschen sprechen oder konkreter: Der Vorgesetzte spricht den Interessenten direkt per Videobotschaft an und bewirbt sich bei seinen zukunftigen Mitarbeitenden. Videoproduzentin Florina Saladin gibt Auskunft uber die Erfolgskriterien eines guten Videos und verrat, wie auch Laien vor der Kamera authentisch wirken konnen. Auserdem interessant: Wie das Medium Video als Instrument fur die interne Kommunikation eingesetzt werden kann, erklart am Praxisbeispiel der VBZ.
Abstract 14888: Association of Interatrial Conduction and Diffuse Left Ventricular Myocardial Fibrosis Defined by Cardiac Magnetic Resonance: the PRIMERI Study

Background: Abnormal P-terminal force in V1 (PTFV1) is associated with an increased risk of heart failure, stroke, atrial fibrillation (AF) and death. Our goal was to explore the associations of left ventricular (LV) diffuse myocardial fibrosis with electrocardiographic (ECG) measures of left atrial (LA) electrical activity. Methods: 101 patients (mean age 60.13, 64.36% men, 67.33% Caucasian) with structural heart disease (wide spatial QRS-T angle ≥105° ± Selvester QRS score ≥5 on ECG) but LV ejection fraction >35% underwent clinical evaluation, cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR), and resting ECG. LA function indices (LA volume index) were obtained by multimodality tissue tracking with CMR using 2 and 4 chamber long-axis images. T1 mapping and late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) methods were used to assess diffuse LV myocardial fibrosis and the presence of scar. Amplitude, duration of P-prime in V1 (PPV1), averaged P-duration, PR interval and P-axis were automatically measured using 12SL TM algorithm. PTFV1 w...
[Cytochrome oxidase solubilization at high pH. I. Effects of pH, Ca2+ and Mg2+ on the reversible solubilization of cytochrome oxidase and cytochrome b by synthetic zeolites and by EDTA].

Abstract Treatment of extensively water-washed beef heart or yeast mitochondria with synthetic A or X type zeolites in the Na + or K + form disaggregates the mitochondria and solubilizes cytochromes b , c , and oxidase in aqueous systems whose pH is between 10 and 11. However, when mitochondria are treated with the same types of A or X zeolites in the Ca 2+ or Mg 2+ forms, only solubilization of some cytochrome c occurs, and cytochromes b and oxidase remain insoluble in aqueous systems whose pH is between 8 and 9.5. Incubation of heart mitochondria with 0.05 m EDTA at pH 10.5 (or yeast mitochondria at pH values between 9 and 10) results in complexation of all of the mitochondrial Ca 2+ and Mg 2+ by the EDTA, and concomitantly, cytochromes b , c , and oxidase are solubilized. At lower pH values, the divalent cations are still complexed, but solubilization of oxidase and b components does not occur. Restoration of Ca 2+ (as chloride) to either zeolite- or EDTA-solubilized mitochondrial systems quantitatively precipitates the b , c , and oxidase components which can be centrifuged down at 2000 g for 10 min. However, restoration of Mg 2+ (as chloride) to either zeolite- or EDTA-solubilized mitochondrial systems causes slow formation of an aggregate which does not contain cytochrome b , c , or oxidase components, all of which remain in solution. Finally, when the high pH of zeolite- or EDTA-solubilized cytochrome b and oxidase systems is lowered by back-titration with acid, the above components are quantitatively precipitated.
Morning Spot and 24-Hour Urinary 6β-Hydroxycortisol to Cortisol Ratios: Intraindividual Variability and Correlation under Basal Conditions and Conditions of CYP 3A4 Induction

A single spot urine collection to measure the ratio of 6 beta-hydroxycortisol (6 beta-OHC) to free cortisol (C) has been proposed as a research tool for the assessment of CYP3A4 induction. However, intraindividual variability in 6 beta-OHC/C under basal conditions and conditions of induction has not been prospectively evaluated, and findings on the correlation between morning spot and 24-hour urinary ratios have been conflicting. In this study, the variability in morning spot and 24-hour urinary 6 beta-OHC/C ratios was assessed in 15 healthy adult male volunteers before, during, and after oral administration of rifampin 600 mg once daily for 14 days. In addition, the correlation between morning spot and 24-hour urinary ratios measured under baseline, maximum induction, and postinduction was determined. Intraindividual coefficients of variation (CVs) at baseline for the morning spot and 24-hour ratios were 54.3% and 57.1%, respectively, and were not changed significantly during induction. No significant differences were detected in the variability between the morning spot and 24-hour ratios at baseline, maximum induction, or postinduction. A good correlation (r = 0.61, p < 0.0001) was detected between the mean morning spot and 24-hour urinary ratios. Mean (+/- SEM) percent increases in the morning spot and 24-hour ratios at maximum induction relative to baseline were 320% +/- 73% and 137% +/- 30%, respectively (p = 0.019). All 15 subjects had an increase in the mean morning spot ratio at maximum induction relative to baseline, whereas 12 subjects showed an increase in the mean 24-hour ratio. The time course of changes in the mean morning spot urinary ratio in response to a 14-day course of rifampin was also similar to that reported previously in a study using 24-hour urine collections. These findings suggest that measurement of the morning spot urinary 6 beta-OHC/C ratio is an effective and efficient method for evaluating the potential of investigational agents to induce CYP3A4.
Formation of proteoglycan aggregates in rat chondrosarcoma chondrocyte cultures treated with tunicamycin

Proteoglycan monomer and link protein isolated from the Swarm rat chondrosarcoma both contain glycosylamine-linked oligosaccharides. In monomer, these N-linked oligosaccharides are concentrated in a region of the protein core which interacts specifically with both hyaluronate and link protein to form proteoglycan aggregates present in cartilage matrix. Chondrocyte cultures were treated with tunicamycin to inhibit synthesis of the N-linked oligosaccharides, and the ability of the deficient proteoglycan and link protein to form aggregates was studied. Cultures were pretreated with tunicamycin for 3 h and then labeled with either [3H]mannose, [3H]glucosamine, [3H]serine, or with [35S]sulfate for 6 h in the presence of tunicamycin. Formation of link protein-stabilized proteoglycan aggregates in the culture medium was inhibited by up to 40% when the cells were treated with 3 micrograms of tunicamycin/ml, a concentration which inhibited 3H incorporation with mannose as a precursor by about 90%, but by only 15% with glucosamine as a precursor. When exogenous proteoglycan aggregate was added to the culture medium, however, it was found that both endogenous monomer and link protein synthesized in the presence of tunicamycin were fully able to form link-stabilized aggregates. This suggests that glycosylamine-linked oligosaccharides on monomer and on link protein are not necessary for their specific interactions with hyaluronate and with each other. Further, although tunicamycin did not inhibit net synthesis of hyaluronate, transfer of hyaluronate from the cell layer to the culture medium was retarded. This phenomenon accounted for most if not all of the decrease in the amount of proteoglycan which formed aggregates in the medium of cultures treated with tunicamycin.