cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Biopsy Core Features are Poor Predictors of Adverse Pathology in Men with Grade Group 1 Prostate Cancer

Purpose: Active surveillance is often restricted to patients with low risk prostate cancer who have 3 or fewer positive cores. We aimed to identify predictors of adverse pathology results for low risk prostate cancer treated with radical prostatectomy and determine whether a threshold number of positive cores could help the decision process for active surveillance.Materials and Methods: A total of 3,359 men with low risk prostate cancer underwent radical prostatectomy between January 2000 and August 2016. We analyzed the relationship between biopsy core features and adverse pathology at radical prostatectomy, defined as Grade Group 3 or greater, seminal vesicle invasion or lymph node involvement.Results: Of the 171 cases (5.1%) with adverse pathology findings at radical prostatectomy 144 (4.3%) were upgraded to Grade Group 3 or greater, 31 (0.9%) had seminal vesicle invasion and 15 (0.4%) had lymph node involvement. Prostate specific antigen and patient age were the only predictors of adverse pathology re...
Katrina J. Edwards: A Force in the World of Environmental Microbiology

Katrina J. Edwards (1968–2014) was a force in the environmental microbiology world with diverse training in the fields of geology, isotope geochemistry, and geomicrobiology. She founded the Center for Dark Energy Biosphere Investigations with the National Science Foundation, which has produced over 300 publications on the biological, hydrological, and geochemical processes that occur in the subsurface of the Earth. This chapter is a personal reflection from John R. Spear on Dr. Edwards’ life, career, and how she continues to inspire a new generation of researchers in geobiology and science in general.
SPT- and CPT-Based Relationships for The Residual Shear Strength of Liquefied Soils

An evaluation of post-earthquake stability of earth embankments or slopes that contain, or are founded on, soils that may liquefy requires estimating the liquefied soil’s residual shear strength, Sr. Decisions regarding the need for expensive mitigation efforts, including ground improvement work, often hinge on the selected Sr values. This paper presents recommended SPTand CPT-based relationships for estimating the residual shear strength ratio, Sr/σ′ vo, of liquefied nonplastic soils in the field based on a review of prior case history studies, laboratory testing studies, and recent findings regarding void redistribution mechanisms. The recommended relationships provide guidance regarding the unavoidable task in practice of having to extrapolate beyond the available case history data. Limitations in the state of knowledge are discussed.
Mass Measurements with Pion Double Charge Exchange

The first discussions1 of pion double charge exchange (DCX) dating back to the early 1960’s mention already the great potential of this reaction to study nuclei far from the line of stability. Early attempts by Gilly et al., at CERN failed because of the low pion intensities available at that time. The situation changed with the advent of high intensity pion beams at the ‘meson factories.’ DCX experiments by Burman et al.3 at the Low Energy Pion (LEP) channel of the Clinton P. Anderson Meson Physics Facility (LAMPF) yielded the first experimental value for the mass of 16Ne via the 16O(π+, π-) reaction. However, these experiments suffered from poor energy resolution (FWHM ~ 4 MeV) and the extracted mass excess for 16Ne is not very accurate (M.E. = 24.4 ± 0.5 MeV). When the Energetic Pion Channel and Spectrometer (EPICS) facility at LAMPF became fully operational, the first pion DCX was studied there by the Northwestern University group.4,5 In the course of these experiments, the mass excess of 18C was measured via the 18O(π-, π+) 18C reaction.5 Since then not only our group but also a collaboration of groups6 from the New Mexico State University, the University of Texas at Austin and the Los Alamos Scientific Laboratory measured masses with pion DCX.
Photobiomodulation (PBM) Provides a Prompt and Near-Resolution Response to Advanced Oral Chronic Graft-Versus-Host Disease (cGVHD) after Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (allo-HSCT)

Background cGVHD is a major complication after allo-HSCT. The oral cavity is frequently affected and may present with painful ulcerations, intraoral discomfort, and limitation to oral intake. While systemic corticosteroids remain first line therapy for moderate/ severe cGVHD, topical and intralesional immunosuppressant (IS)-based therapies have been used with modest effect. PBM, a non-invasive light therapy, appears to promote tissue recovery via direct absorption of cytochrome C oxidase and activation of TGF-β1, and has been used for the prevention and treatment of radiation-induced mucositis in head & neck cancer. However, the effect of PBM therapy in oral cGVHD is currently unknown. Methods We evaluated 7 patients (median age 47) who underwent allo-HSCT (7 PBSC grafts) after myeloablative (n = 3) and reduced (n = 4) conditioning between 09/2015-05/2017. Patients developed moderate (n = 2) or severe (n = 5) oral cGVHD and received PBM (2x/week for 3 weeks) after failure to improve with topical corticosteroid and/or topical tacrolimus therapy +/- intralesional triamcinolone injections and systemic IS. Thor® laser LX2 with wavelengths of 660 nm (visible-red) and 810 nm (near-infrared) was applied extra-orally. The psychometric questionnaire for pain rating (Visual Analogue Scale [VAS], scale 0-10), and oral GVHD (OGVHD) score (severity of erythema, lichenoid changes, ulcers and mucoceles, scale 0-15) were used weekly for the assessment of therapeutic response. Results The baseline oral cGVHD evaluation revealed high VAS (median 7, range 3-8) and OGVHD (median 9, range 6-9) scores. Patients had affected oral cavity that included lichen planus-like changes, ulcers, mucositis, gingivitis, and/or erythema (Fig. 1A-B). The first therapeutic response assessment was obtained 1 week after initiation of therapy and showed improvement in pain by VAS score (median 3). Subsequent assessments were obtained for the duration of PBM therapy and showed overall improvement in the pain scale and healing of the oral cavity (Fig. 1C-D, 2A-B). At the end of treatment, the median VAS score was 2 (range 1-2) and OGVHD was 3 (range 1-4). Treatment was well tolerated, and all patients received the intended number of PBM treatments in the planned period of 3 weeks. No adverse events were reported as related to PBM. Conclusions Advanced oral cGVHD achieved near-complete resolution of pain and oral cavity lesions after PBM therapy. Notable, patients who previously failed to respond to upfront topical and systemic IS treatment achieved high therapeutic response with PBM. Improvement in pain scale was observed 1 week after starting therapy and healing of the oral cavity was observed at 2 weeks. This non-IS treatment appears feasible, safe and promising in oral cGVHD. A prospective study is needed to confirm these preliminary findings.
Abstract WP234: Seasonal Differences in Sleep and Incident and Recurrent Strokes: Evidence From the Stroke Warning Information and Faster Treatment (SWIFT) Study

Introduction: Studies have documented seasonal patterns in stroke outcomes. While results are equivocal most report increased rates of these outcomes in the winter-spring and hypothesize this is ex...
UV-B Radiation and Photoimmunology

Irradiation with ultraviolet-B (UV-B, 280–320 nm) initiates a selective immunosuppression which results in a down regulation of cell-mediated immunity. This form of immune suppression may be a fundamental regulatory mechanism, controlling the interaction between mammals and potentially deleterious environmental radiation. Immunosuppression by UV-B is mediated via a functional alteration to antigen-presenting cells, specialized cells that initiate immune responses by processing foreign proteins (antigens) and “presenting” them to lymphocytes which carry out the immune response. Most antigen-presenting cells cannot be reached by UV-B photons in vivo and UV-B therefore affects their function indirectly.
The career of measurement

Units as they exist today are highly abstract. Meters, miles, and other modern measures have no obvious basis in tangible phenomena and can be applied broadly across domains. Historical examples suggest, however, that units have not always been so abstract. Here, we examine this issue systematically. We begin by analyzing linear measures in the Oxford English Dictionary (OED) and in an ethnographic database that spans 114 cultures (HRAF). Our survey of both datasets shows, first, that early length units have mostly come from concrete sources-body parts, artifacts, events, and other tangible phenomena-and, second, that they have often been tied to particular contexts. Measurement units have thus undergone a shift from highly concrete to highly abstract. How did this shift happen? Drawing on historical surveys and case studies-as well as data from the OED and HRAF-we next propose a reconstruction of how abstract units might have evolved gradually through a series of overlapping stages. We also consider the cognitive processes that underpin this evolution-in particular, comparison. Finally, we discuss the cognitive origins of units. Units are not only slow to emerge historically, they are also slow to be acquired developmentally, and mastering them appears to have cognitive consequences. Taken together, these observations suggest that units are not inevitable intuitions, but are best thought of as culturally evolved cognitive tools. By analyzing the career of measurement in detail, we illustrate how such tools-abstract as they are today-can arise from concrete, often bodily origins.
How Do We Grow Our Next Generation of Nurse Leaders

A plus sign can mean many things depending on the context-math for a school-aged child, a positive balance for an accountant, or, for us (the authors), new beginnings and new additions to our families. We were thrilled with the news that we were both expecting at the same time and that our children would be growing up together. As reality set in, however, we realized that this timing would have an incredible impact on our clinical oncology care teams because the two of us would be on leave at the same time.
Rat Models of Central Nervous System Injury

Abstract The central nervous system (CNS) plays a pivotal role in virtually all mammalian functions, including cognitive behavior, motility, perception, and homeostasis/regulation. Trauma to the CNS can therefore have devastating consequences due to the disruption of complex neural circuitry underlying these critical functions, which is compounded by the limited regenerative capacity of the brain and spinal cord. Rat models of both spinal cord injury and traumatic brain injury are described in this chapter. Induction of specific models and selected outcome measures are reviewed. Benefits of using rat models, potential confounding factors on animal experiments, and complications for interpretation of data obtained from these experiments are highlighted.
Teaching about Latino immigration with a focus on social justice

This essay outlines an approach to teaching U.S. immigration policy and Latino immigration to undergraduate students in a systemic and critical manner. The course is designed to build students’ kno...
Chapter 4 – Flame phenomena in premixed combustible gases

Combustion phenomena in premixed fuel–air mixtures are analyzed including laminar and turbulent flames and stirred reactors. Several theories are reviewed to examine the structure of laminar premixed flames and deduce their laminar flame speeds. The effects of temperature, pressure, equivalence ratio, and mixture diluent are considered. Methods to experimentally measure flame speeds are also discussed. Laminar flame stability characteristics including flammability limits, quenching distance, and flame stabilization are presented and analyzed. The various regimes of turbulent reacting flows are described along with turbulence chemistry interactions and the turbulent flame speed. Stirred reactor theory is introduced, and considerations for flame stabilization, including flashback and blowoff, in high-speed flows are presented. Finally, a brief description of combustion in microsystems is provided.
The clinical characteristics and treatment outcome of special ROP by Avastin

Objective To study the clinical characteristics and outcome of the special cases of ROP after treated by intravitreal injections of Avastin.Methods A retrospective clinical analysis was performed on the data from 22 cases (44 eyes) of patients with ROP.All patients were treated within 24 hours by intravitreal injections with Avastin of 0.03 ml/eye/dose.Results In group of AP-ROP,6 cases (12 eyes) were stopped,2 cases (4 eyes) were controlled.In group of poor condition,4 cases (8 eyes) were stopped,2 cases (4 eyes) were controlled.In the group of threshold period ROP,4 cases (8 eyes) were stopped,4 cases (8 eyes) were controlled.Conclusions To the AP-ROP patients and typical ROP patients,treated by intravitreal injection can effectively control the development of the disease,in the time before and after 20 days (half-life period of Avastin),when growth disorder of new blood vessels appeared again.If give children Avastin injection again timely,most of patients won't appear large avascular and which needn't laser treatment. Key words: Retinopathy of Premature; Aggressive posterior retinopathy of prematurity; Treatment; Vitreous injection
Development of advanced conduction disturbances following balloon-expandable transcatheter aortic valve replacement leads to poorer clinical outcomes.

Background Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is a reliable method of treating patients with severe aortic stenosis, but is associated with postprocedure conduction defects. Objective The purpose of this study was to compare clinical outcomes in patients who developed advanced conduction defects post-TAVR to those who did not. Methods We conducted a retrospective chart review of 243 patients who underwent balloon-expandable TAVR with the Edwards Sapien valve to determine the incidence of advanced conduction defects in our cohort. We compared clinical outcomes including overall mortality, improvement in symptomatology, and improvement in left ventricular ejection fraction. Results Among the 243 patients included in the study, 9.1% (22/243) required permanent pacemaker (PPM); 19.8% (48/243) developed left bundle branch block (LBBB), and 71.2% (173/243) did not develop any permanent advanced conduction defects. Overall 1-year mortality was similar across all three groups. There was significant improvement in New York Heart Association functional capacity of all groups post-TAVR, but this was much less in the PPM group (45.5% vs 68.8%, P = .04). Postprocedure from TAVR, patients with LBBB or PM were less likely to have improvement in their ejection fraction (net loss of -0.7% for LBBB and -5.7% for PPM compared to a net gain of 2.3% for no-LBBB/PM (P = .02). Conclusion Patients who develop LBBB or require PM post-TAVR with Edwards Sapien valves are less likely to improve New York Heart Association functional capacity and more likely to have no improvement or deterioration of their pre-TAVR left ventricular ejection fraction.
Renal biomarkers of preeclampsia

Abstract Worldwide, preeclampsia and related-conditions are among the leading causes of maternal mortality, perinatal death, preterm birth, and low birth-weight. In the United States, the incidence of preeclampsia is increasing and may be related to the higher prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, obesity, delay in child-bearing, and the use of artificial reproductive technologies. Preeclampsia is usually defined as new-onset hypertension (i.e., SBP ≥ 140 mmHg and/or DBP ≥ 90 mmHg) and proteinuria (>0.3 g/day) arising after 20 weeks of gestation in a previously normotensive woman. In the absence of proteinuria, pre-eclampsia can be diagnosed as new-onset hypertension associated with thrombocytopenia, elevated liver transaminases, impaired renal function, pulmonary edema, new-onset visual or cerebral disturbances. During pregnancy, the oxidatively stressed placenta releases angiogenic and antiangiogenic factors into the maternal circulation, which cause the maternal systemic inflammatory response and endothelial dysfunction that lead to the clinical signs of preeclampsia. Some of these factors can be used as biomarkers for early screening and diagnosis of preeclempsia.
Motor behavior-induced prefrontal cortex activation and episodic memory function.

Background The objective of this paper was to evaluate the potential individual and combined effects of acute exercise coupled with bilateral interhemispheric activation on episodic memory function. Six experiments were conducted. Methods Experiment 1 was a within-subject, counterbalanced experiment. Participants completed four visits, including 1) exercise and saccadic eye movements, 2) exercise only, 3) saccadic eye movements only, and 4) no exercise and no saccadic eye movements (control). A word-list memory assessment was employed, including a long-term (20-min delay) memory evaluation. In Experiment 2, we evaluated the effects of saccadic eye movements on prefrontal cortex oxygenation, a proxy for neuronal activity. Similarly, in our third experiment, we evaluated the effects of acute exercise on prefrontal cortex oxygenation. Thus, experiments 2 and 3 were employed to provide mechanistic insights from the results shown in experiment 1. Experiment 4 replicated Experiment 1, but instead of increasing prefrontal cortex activation via saccadic eye movements, we used a fist clenching protocol. Experiment 5 evaluated the effects of fist clenching on prefrontal cortex oxygenation. Results Collectively, these 5 experimental studies showed that acute exercise (Experiment 1), saccadic eye movements (Experiment 1), and fist clenching (Experiment 4) enhanced memory function, and that acute exercise (Experiment 3), saccadic eye movements (Experiment 2) and fist clenching (Experiment 5) all increased prefrontal cortex oxygenation. Experiment 6 demonstrated that prefrontal cortex oxygenation was positively associated with episodic memory function. Conclusion These six experiments suggest that several behaviors, such as acute exercise, saccadic eye movements and fist clenching may improve memory function and may, potentially, do so via increases in prefrontal cortex oxygenation.
Sizing Behind-the-Meter Energy Storage and Solar for Electric Vehicle Fast-Charging Stations

This paper presents a techno-economic analysis of behind-the-meter (BTM) solar photovoltaic (PV) and battery energy storage systems (BESS) applied to an Electric Vehicle (EV) fast-charging station. The goal is to estimate the maximum return on investment (ROI) that can be obtained for optimum BESS and PV size and their operation. Fast charging is a technology that will speed up mass adoption of EVs, which currently requires several hours to achieve full recharge in level 1 or 2 chargers. Fast chargers demand from tens to hundreds of kilowatts from the distribution grid, potentially leading to system congestion and overload. The problem is formulated as a linear program that obtains the size of PV, power and energy ratings of BESS as well as charging and discharging scheduling of the storage system to maximize ROI under operational constraints of BESS and PV. The revenue are cost-savings of demand and time-of-use charges, with a penalty for BESS degradation. We have considered Los Angeles Department of Water and Power tariff A-2 and fast charger data derived from the EV Project. The results show that a 46.5 kW/28.3 kWh BESS can obtain a ROI of about $22.4k over 10 years for a small 4-port fast-charging station.
Intensive Approaches to Prenatal Care May Reduce Risk of Gestational Diabetes.

Objectives: To observe gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) prevalence among participants receiving enhanced prenatal care through one of three care models: Birth Centers, Group Prenatal Care, and Maternity Care Homes. Materials and Methods: This study draws upon data collected from 2014 to 2017 as part of the Strong Start II evaluation and includes data from nearly 46,000 women enrolled across 27 awardees with more than 200 sites throughout the United States. Descriptive and statistical analyses utilized data from participant surveys completed upon entry to the program and a limited chart review. Results: A total of 6.3% of Strong Start participants developed GDM during their pregnancy. Rates varied significantly and substantially by model. After adjusting for participant risk factors, we find that Birth Center participants of all races and ethnicities experienced significantly lower rates of GDM than women of the same race/ethnicity in Maternity Care Homes. Conclusions: The lower rates of gestational diabetes among women receiving Birth Center prenatal care suggest the need for further investigation of how prenatal care approaches can reduce GDM and address health disparities.
Polyethylene-BN nanosheets nanocomposites with enhanced thermal and mechanical properties

Abstract Polyethylene (PE) are in demand for electrical insulation and thermal management applications; however, their low mechanical and thermal properties pose major challenges. Herein, we report on novel properties of PE-boron nitride (BN) nanocomposites prepared by melt compounding followed by injection molding. The thermal and mechanical properties of silane-functionalized (sBN) and non-functionalized (pBN) PE-BN nanocomposites were studied in order to assess the role of silane functional groups at the interface of BN nanosheets and PE matrix. In comparison with PE materials, addition of 5 wt % BN nanosheets increases tensile modulus of elasticity by 37 and 42%, flexural modulus of elasticity by 24 and 30%, tensile strength by 15 and 27%, and storage modulus by 80 and 91% for pBN and sBN nanocomposites, respectively. Besides mechanical reinforcement, thermal and thermomechanical properties were evaluated for PE-BN nanocomposites. While thermal stability of PE-pBN and PE-sBN nanocomposites was comparable, coefficient of thermal expansion was decreased by 12 and 20% at 5 wt % pBN and sBN nanosheets, respectively. These polymer nanocomposites with enhanced mechanical and thermal properties can be an excellent choice for application in insulation materials, including thermal interface layers in electronic devices.
Pediatric Unilateral Vocal Fold Movement Impairment: Diagnostic Tools and Management Strategies

Unilateral vocal fold movement impairment (VFMI) in the pediatric population presents unique challenges. Thoughtful and innovative methods of diagnosis, prognostication, and intervention have recently influenced the management of VFMI in children. This article presents updates on the natural history of pediatric VFMI, use of laryngeal ultrasound (LUS) and laryngeal electromyography (LEMG) as diagnostic tools, and optimal management strategies for pediatric unilateral VFMI. Long-term follow-up studies for pediatric patients diagnosed with VFMI described a substantial number of children that have recovery of VFMI well after 12 months, contradicting the conventional teaching that recovery after 1 year is unlikely. LUS performs well compared to the gold standard flexible nasolaryngoscopy (FNL) in identifying VFMI with significantly less physiologic impact. LEMG can be used to assist in determining etiology of VFMI and may play a role in predicting recovery and outcomes of interventions. Recent data has demonstrated that reinnervation is highly effective in managing dysphonia and aspiration in children with VFMI. Children diagnosed with VFMI should be followed at regularly scheduled intervals until resolution of their VFMI. LUS is an alternate tool that should be considered in medically fragile children susceptible to alterations in physiologic parameters. LEMG is a useful adjunct for elucidating neuronal versus mechanical VFMI. Recent data suggests that reinnervation should be considered as a primary surgical intervention for neuronal unilateral VFMI.
A Tunable Sub-Millimeter Laser using Rydberg States of Atomic Potassium

We report the development of a tunable sub-millimeter laser source, operating in the 100-1000 micrometer wavelength range, using Stark tuned atomic Rydberg states of potassium. The sub-millimeter laser action is generated by optically pumping Rydberg states of atomic potassium vapor with a frequency doubled, etalon tuned, flashlamp pumped dye laser. For example, when the 13p3/2 state is pumped at 292 nanometers, lasing occurs from the 13p to 13s transition (∼116 micrometer) and the 13p to 11d transition (∼78 micrometer). Tuning is accomplished by Stark shifting these energy levels with a small electric (<500 v/cm) field applied to the vapor during optical pumping.
Meeting the (Trans)parent: Test of Parasocial Contact with Transgender Characters on Reducing Stigma toward Transgender People

This study examined the role parasocial contact with a transgender character on an online TV show (Transparent) may play in reducing prejudice toward transgender people. An experiment was conducted...
Gay humor: a conversation with Mariana Valencia on Futurity (2019)

Yarden: I want to start with a question regarding the Whitney Biennial itself. It seems hard to avoid given the political uproar. How has the political urgency developed around the Biennial shaped ...
Changes in Parent and Child Skin Carotenoids, Weight, and Dietary Behaviors over Parental Weight Management

(1) The objective was to determine changes in parent–child (ages 7–18) dyad skin carotenoids spanning parental participation in a medical weight management program (WMP), and associations with parent BMI, child BMIz, fruit/vegetable intake, and family meals and patterns. (2) The study design was a longitudinal dyadic observational study with assessment at WMP initiation, mid-point (3-months), and conclusion (6-months). Twenty-three dyads initiated the study, 16 provided assessments at 3 months, and 11 at program conclusion. Associations between parent and child carotenoids (dependent variables) and parent BMI, child BMIz, increases in fruit/vegetable intake, and family meals and patterns were analyzed using Pearson’s correlations and independent samples t-tests. Repeated measures ANOVA assessed changes in weight status and carotenoids. (3) Parents experienced significant declines in BMI and skin carotenoid levels over 6 months. Parent and child carotenoids were correlated at each assessment. At initiation, parent BMI and carotenoids were inversely correlated, child carotenoids were associated with increased family meals, and never consuming an evening fast food or restaurant meal were associated with increased parent and child carotenoids. (4) Results demonstrate skin carotenoids are strongly correlated within dyads and may be associated with lower parental BMI and positive family meal practices.
Structural biofilm resistance of carbon-infiltrated carbon nanotube coatings.

Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is a devastating complication of orthopedic implant surgeries, such as total knee and hip arthroplasties. Treatment requires additional surgeries because antibiotics have limited efficacy due to biofilm formation and resistant bacterial strains such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). A non-pharmaceutical approach is needed, and examples of this are found in nature; dragonfly and cicada wings are antibacterial because of their nanopillar surface structure rather than their chemistry. Carbon-infiltrated carbon nanotube (CICNT) surfaces exhibit a similar nanopillar structure, and have been shown to facilitate osseointegration, and it is postulated that they might provide a structurally-derived resistance to bacterial proliferation and biofilm formation. The objective of this study was to test the biofilm resistance of CICNT coatings. Two types of CICNT were produced: a vertically aligned CNT forest on a silicon substrate using a layer of iron as the catalyst (CICNT-Si) and a random-oriented CNT forest on stainless steel (SS) substrate using the substrate as the catalyst (CICNT-SS). These were tested against SS and carbon controls. After 48 h in an MRSA biofilm reactor, samples demonstrated that both types of CICNT coatings significantly (p < 0.0001) reduced MRSA biofilm formation by 60%-80%. Morphologically, biofilm presence on both types of CICNT was also significantly reduced. Clinical Significance: Results suggest that a CICNT surface modification could be suitable and advantageous for medical devices susceptible to MRSA cell attachment and biofilm proliferation, particularly orthopedic implants.
The synthesis and applications of TiO2 nanoparticles derived from phytochemical sources

Abstract Nano sized materials have gathered significant attention during the last few decades due to their unique chemical, physical, electrical, optical and mechanical properties. Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is non-toxic and has good corrosion resistance, high chemical and thermal stability. TiO2 has a wide range of applications including as photocatalysts, in solar cells, self-cleaning surfaces, wastewater treatment and as an antimicrobial agent. A number of methods have been implemented for the synthesis of TiO2 nanoparticles and among these, so-called ‘green’ approaches, for example those that employ renewable resources and/or require low energy input, are attractive because they can be cost-effective, less hazardous and environmentally sustainable. This review explores recent advances in the synthesis of TiO2 nanoparticles derived from phytochemical sources and benchmarks their performance in a range of applications against nano-TiO2 produced by more conventional methods.
A systematic review of the bidirectional relationship between depressive symptoms and cardiovascular health.

Abstract Depression is a mental health disorder associated with a 2-fold increase in cardiovascular disease risk. However, the association between depression and cardiovascular health (CVH), as reflected by the American Heart Association's (AHA) CVH metrics, is incompletely understood. We aimed to systematically review the current evidence to understand and clarify whether a bidirectional relationship may exist between depressive symptoms and CVH. We conducted a systematic review by searching EMBASE, Google Scholar, PubMed and Web of Science from inception to May 2021. MeSH terms and keywords were used to identify studies with information on depressive symptoms and CVH. Among 132 articles screened, 11 studies were included with 101,825 participants. Eight studies were cross-sectional while 3 used a prospective cohort design. Five studies found an association between participants with unfavorable CVH and depressive symptoms. Six studies found an association between participants with depressive symptoms and unfavorable CVH. In conclusion, we found a bidirectional relationship may exist between depressive symptoms and CVH. However, further research is required to quantify the risk and identify the biological mechanisms underlying the association between depressive symptoms and unfavorable CVH so adequate screening and interventions can be directed towards people with depressive symptoms or unfavorable CVH.
Partial Differential Equation Analysis in Biomedical Engineering: Case Studies with Matlab

1. Introduction to partial differential equation integration in space and time 2. Antibody binding kinetics 3. Acid-mediated tumour growth 4. Retinal oxygen transport 5. Hemodialyzer dynamics 6. Epidermal wound healing 7. Drug distribution from a polymer matrix.
The metabolism of C14-α-tocopheryl quinone and C14-α-tocopheryl hydroquinone

The metabolism of C14-d-α-tocopheryl quinone (α-TQ) and its hydroquinone (αTHQ) was investigated. Forty-six hours after intraperitoneal administration of either compound to rats the radioactivity isolated from the liver was present almost exclusively in C14-α-TQ. The results indicated, however, that in situ this compound was present primarily in the reduced form. No conversion to C14-α-tocopherol or other liver metabolites was observed. α-THQ was eliminated from the tissues more rapidly than α-TQ. The main metabolite excreted in the urine was a conjugate of α-tocopheronic acid and the main metabolite excreted in the feces was a conjugate of α-TQ. Free C14-α-TQ was present in the feces after administration of this compound but not after C14-α-THQ administration.
A NOTE ON THE DISTRIBUTION OF MAXIMA OF SHIP ROLLING

The methods and results of a digital computer simulation of a nonlinear random process are described. The process was one of the simpler analytical models for ship roll. The main objective of the simulation was to obtain "empirical" data on the distribution of roll maxima, and to test these data against the corresponding theoretical distribution for a random Gaussian (linear) process. Effect was made to confine the variation of parameters within ranges appropriate to ship rolling. Within this range of parameters, the frequency band of response is sufficiently narrow that the theoretical distribution of maxima of the corresponding linear process tends toward the Rayleigh. The results obtained by objective statistical test procedures indicate that the distribution of maxima of the nonlinear process is not Rayleigh in a substantial portion of the parameter range of interest. However, it was possible to conclude from the results that the Rayleigh assumption is reasonable for an important class of engineering predictions; that of the prediction of average, "significant" and "1/10 highest" maxima from a knowledge of the spectrum of roll.
Endogenous Opioid System Activity Following Temporary Focal Cerebral Ischemia

We studied changes in opioid receptors (μ,δ, κ) concentrations during temporary middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) in cats by sequential displacement of unselective opioid antagonist, [3H]diprenorphine with highly selective ligands for μ, δ and κ, subsites. Following threshold cerebral ischemia (rCBF < 10ml/100 g/min) there was a 2 to 3 fold increase in the 3 opioid receptor subtype concentrations at 10 min following the release of MCAO. Further, 56% of the cats depicted early postischemic hyperemia BBB opening, at 1 h and 3 h following the release of occlusion, with significant subsequent progression of brain edema. We believe that the enhanced brain opioid activity may be relevant to the neuronal damage caused by the early postischemic BBB opening.
Mechanism of an Alternate Type of Echinoderm Blastula Formation: The Wrinkled Blastula of the Sea Urchin Heliocidaris erythrogramma direct development/echinoderm development/morphogenesis/sea urchin embryos/wrinkled blastula

While most indirect-developing echinoderms (possessing a feeding larval stage) form a hollow, smooth-walled blastula, most direct-developing species form a wrinkled blastula. The process of wrinkled blastula formation was examined in the direct-developing sea urchin, Heliocidaris erythrogramma. Approximately 5 hrs after fertilization the blastula epithelium contains folds along one, two or three orthogonal planes, which superficially appear like 2-, 4- or 8-cell stages, respectively. Microinjection of fluorescent dye into individual blastomeres of 2-, 4- and 8-cell embryos revealed that the wrinkles correspond with the first, second and third cleavage planes. Two factors appear to generate the wrinkled blastula epithelium. First, blastomeres undergo a partial separation along the first, second and third cleavage planes during early cleavage. Subsequent cell divisions are oriented such that the blastula epithelium is constructed with deep creases along these planes of cell separation. Second, there is no room for the expansion of the developing blastoderm within the tightly fitting fertilization envelope. Prior to hatching from the fertilization envelope, wrinkles in the blastula epithelium disappear, due to an increased packing and elongation of the cells. In addition, a substantial volume of cellular material is removed as lipids are secreted into the blastocoel in an apocrine fashion.
Spatial Parsing for Visual Languages

Theoretical context. The long-term goal of this research is computer understanding of how humans use graphics to communicate. The full richness of graphic communication is exemplified in blackboard activity,* which is one kind of conversational graphics. Conversational graphics can be defined as the spontaneous generation and manipulation of text and graphics for the purpose of communication. But there is a problem with taking informal conversational graphics as a phenomenon for investigation using computer tools. The unrestricted use of text and graphics found on blackboards is too rich and ambiguous to be tackled head-on as a project in machine understanding.
Genetic Testing Meets Big Data: Tort and Contract Law Issues

Technological advances pertaining to genetic testing hold much promise for the prevention of disease. Novel legal issues, however, accompany those advances. As the genomic age meets the age of Big Data, this Article details risks associated with genetic testing, focusing in particular on the negligent disclosure of genetic information resulting in financial and emotional harm. The Article then examines the availability of statutory and tort remedies for that harm. The Article finds that, given the exceptional social position of genetic information, there is a need for new solutions such as more rigorous informed consent guidelines for genetic testing and the promulgation of a new tort, the tort of genetic information disclosure. This is a particularly timely project given the recent Supreme Court ruling in Association for Molecular Pathology vs. Myriad Genetics. That ruling denies human gene patents and allows for more widespread availability of genetic testing, especially in the context of breast cancer screening. As foreseeably more individuals partake in genetic testing, and as that information becomes subsumed in the Big Data phenomenon, the probability of the (inadvertent) disclosure of their genetic information and the peril of injury from such disclosure demands greater legal attention.
A Review of “Global Property Investment: Strategies, Structures, Decisions”

This text about global real estate investment by Baum and Hartzell integrates important aspects of international and corresponding capital markets into a cutting edge perspective. They take some of...
NK cells inhibit humoral immunity by reducing the abundance of CD4+ T follicular helper cells during a chronic virus infection

There is a need to understand better how to improve B cell responses and immunity to persisting virus infections, which often cause debilitating illness or death. People with chronic virus infection show evidence of improved virus control when there is a strong neutralizing antibody response, and conversely, B cell dysfunction is associated with higher viral loads. We showed previously that NK cells inhibit CD4+ and CD8+ T cell responses to disseminating LCMV infection and that depletion of NK cells attenuates chronic infection. Here, we examined the effect of NK cell depletion on B cell responses to LCMV infection in mice. Whereas mice infected acutely generated a peak level of antibody soon after the infection was resolved, mice infected chronically showed a continued increase in antibody levels that exceeded those after acute infection. We found that early NK cell depletion rapidly increased virus-specific antibody levels to chronic infection, and this effect depended on CD4+ T cells and was associated with elevated numbers of CXCR5+CD4+ TFH cells. However, the NK cell-depleted mice controlled the infection and by 1 mo pi, had lower TFH cell numbers and antibody levels compared with mice with sustained infection. Finally, we show that NK cell depletion improved antiviral CD8+ T cell responses only when B cells and virus-specific antibody were present. Our data indicate that NK cells diminish immunity to chronic infection, in part, by suppressing TFH cell and antibody responses.
An interactive display for approximation by linear programming

An interactive program with a graphical display has been developed for the approximation of data by means of a linear combination of functions (including splines) selected by the user. The coffiecients of the approximation are determined by linear programming so as to minimize the error in either the L1 or L∞ norm. Auxiliary conditions such as monotonicity or convexity of the approximation can also be imposed. This interactive system is described and several examples of its use are given.
Outcome Probability versus Magnitude: When Waiting Benefits One at the Cost of the Other

Using a continuous impulsivity and risk platform (CIRP) that was constructed using a video game engine, choice was assessed under conditions in which waiting produced a continuously increasing probability of an outcome with a continuously decreasing magnitude (Experiment 1) or a continuously increasing magnitude of an outcome with a continuously decreasing probability (Experiment 2). Performance in both experiments reflected a greater desire for a higher probability even though the corresponding wait times produced substantive decreases in overall performance. These tendencies are considered to principally reflect hyperbolic discounting of probability, power discounting of magnitude, and the mathematical consequences of different response rates. Behavior in the CIRP is compared and contrasted with that in the Balloon Analogue Risk Task (BART).
Amoeboid chemotaxis: future challenges and opportunities.

Chemotaxis is the directed movement of a cell towards a gradient of chemicals such as chemokines or growth factors. This phenomenon can be studied in organisms ranging from bacteria to mammalian cells and here we will focus on eukaryotic amoeboid chemotaxis. Chemotactic responses are mediated by two major classes of receptors: GPCR’s and RTK’s, with multiple pathways signaling downstream of them, certain ones functioning in parallel. In this review we address two important features of amoeboid chemotaxis that will be important for further advances in the field. First, the application of in vivo imaging will be critical for providing insight into the functional requirements for chemotactic responses. We will briefly cover a number of systems in which in vivo imaging is providing new insights. Second, due to the network-type design of signaling pathways of eukaryotic chemotaxis, more refined phenotypic analysis will be necessary, and we will discuss recent analyses of the role of the phosphoinositide 3-kina...
Dynamics of Platform-based Networks during Periods of Architectural Shifts in Videogames

We studied the evolution of the platform-complementor network in the PC and home video game consoles as video games transitioned from the sixth to the seventh generation. We specifically sought to ...
Laparoscopy in children and adolescents

One hundred twelve females below the age of twenty years underwent laparoscopy at the Medical University of South Carolina over a ten-year period. Pelvic pain followed by primary amenorrhea was the major indication for the procedure. Eighty-nine percent of those with acute pain had identifiable pelvic pathology, whereas 27% of girls presenting with chronic pain had a normal laparoscopic examination. Pelvic inflammatory disease was the most common diagnosis. Ovarian cysts, pregnancy complications, and endometriosis were also found. Endometriosis was not found among black teenage clinic patients. The procedure appears to be a safe and useful diagnostic tool in this age group.
Silicone adjustable bundling devices: do they meet manufacturer's claims during cooking and cleaning?

Silicone cooking and baking devices are purportedly easy to use, can be stretched to hold and support a variety of foods, and are stick-resistant, heat-resistant, stain-resistant and dishwasher-safe. Also, depending on the silicone device, such as muffin pans, they are food safe and Food and Drug Administration compliant. Yet recent research has reported results to the contrary. Testing a new method of bundling or trussing food, this study found that adjustable silicone bundling devices, also known as ‘Foodloops’, are not as effective as manufacturers claim. The Foodloops often slipped off food while cooking, food stuck to the silicone, and using the aerobic plate count spiral method, significant levels of bacteria were found after cleaning.
The thematic index: A computer application to musicology

Of the various technical aids available to the musicologist, one of the oldest and possibly most useful is the thematic index. Making one by hand is a tedious investigative procedure involving the manipulation of thousands of cards and the development of filing schemes which hopefully will locate borrowings and duplications, identify anonymous works, and help in the dating of a composer's work. But when properly constructed and judiciously employed, it can provide fundamental information for the history of music. For example, in 1886, R. Schwarz, writing on the Libro Primo of frottole published by Petrucci, was able to note that "the superius of a Tromboncino piece also appears as the alto of a piece by Cara and as the bass of a piece by Michael." Schwarz probably was enabled to make this observation on the recurring frottola melody by the use of a thematic index on the classic set of cards. As it has served generations of scholars, the thematic index is simply a straightforward listing of the opening theme of each work by a particular composer, usually in chronological order. The most famous is the catalog of Mozart's works prepared by Ludwig von K6chel and published in 1862. K6chel was a mineralogist who set about his task as systematically as if he were compiling a descriptive index of minerals. The works are arranged in chronological order with a number assigned to each. The opening three or four measures are quoted, titles and/or first lines are given, and bibliographical information is supplied. Mozart's works are so commonly referred to by their "K" numbers that K6chel's monumental Verzeichnis must be revised every few years to keep it abreast of the latest research. Some other well known catalogs, used daily in any music library, are the Kinsky Beethoven, the Hoboken Haydn, the Deutsch Schubert, and the Kirkpatrick Scarlatti. The researcher in earlier music is interested in more, however, than a simple chronological listing of a composer's works with their corresponding incipits, or quotations of the opening themes. His work cuts across boundaries of composer, genre, or geography as he attempts to collate manuscripts, and search out borrowings of melodies from folk or popular sources or between composers. He strives to identify melodies whose roles have shifted from court
Studies of nanomagnetism using synchrotron-based x-ray photoemission electron microscopy (X-PEEM)

As interest in magnetic devices has increased over the last 20 years, research into nanomagnetism has experienced a corresponding growth. Device applications from magnetic storage to magnetic logic have compelled interest in the influence of geometry and finite size on magnetism and magnetic excitations, in particular where the smallest dimensions reach the important magnetic interaction length scales. The dynamical behavior of nanoscale magnets is an especially important subset of research, as these phenomena are both critical for device physics and profoundly influenced by finite size. At the same time, nanoscale systems offer unique geometries to promote and study model systems, such as magnetic vortices, leading to new fundamental insights into magnetization dynamics. A wide array of experimental and computational techniques have been applied to these problems. Among these, imaging techniques that provide real-space information on the magnetic order are particularly useful. X-ray microscopy offers several advantages over scanning probe or optical techniques, such as high spatial resolution, element specificity and the possibility for high time resolution. Here, we review recent contributions using static and time-resolved x-ray photoemission electron microscopy to nanomagnetism research.