cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Place of Doubt in Kierkegaard

These words highlight the primacy of doubt in Kierkegaard’s philosophy. The integral role played by doubt is the focal point of Johannes Climacus, or De Omnibus Dubitandum Est.2 This short narrative which describes the philosophical itinerary of Johannes Climacus, the pseudonymous author of the Fragments and Postscript,3 is reminiscent, in form if not in content, of Descartes’ Discourse on Method.4 Kierkegaard, like Descartes before him, experiments with doubt. Yet, their experiences differ considerably. For Descartes, doubt is a preparation; it is a point of departure for the methodical construction of a rational system. Descartes is looking for a place to dwell and finds repose within the walls of objective certainty.5
P- and S-wave velocity anomalies associated with the subducting lithosphere determined from travel-time residuals in the Japan region

Travel-time residuals of P and S waves from local deep earthquakes are used to apply geophysical constraints to the laterally heterogeneous structure associated with the Japan subduction zone. Theoretical residuals for two-dimensional upper mantle models that have high-velocity dipping slabs are calculated by applying Jacob's (1970) ray-tracing method. The forms of the spatial distribution of the observed and the calculated residuals are matched to determine the velocity contrasts across the asthenosphere and the subducting lithosphere boundary and a possible velocity structure inside the slab. We find 5 ± 1 per cent for Vp contrast and 7 ± 2 per cent for Vs contrast. These contrasts cannot simply be explained by a temperature effect alone and it is likely that other mechanisms such as partial melting in the asthenosphere are required for the observed velocity change. The data indicate that the subducting lithosphere can be modeled by a two-layer structure similar to that found for oceanic lithosphere (Shimamura and Asada, 1976) but with a smaller velocity contrast. Two-layer model calculations show that the subducting lithosphere is about 120 km thick. The upper layer of the slab is about 40 to 50 km thick and has about 1 per cent lower velocity than the underlying layer.
Nativity and Migration: Considering Acculturation in the Assessment and Treatment of Mental Disorders

This chapter provides an overview of research on acculturation and mental health in multicultural individuals. The principle frameworks of acculturation are reviewed and distinctions are drawn between the acculturation experiences of immigrants and refugees. This chapter also highlights various methodological considerations relevant to the assessment of acculturation and reviews existing acculturation measures developed with Latinos, Asian Americans, African Americans, and American Indians. Research examining the relationships between acculturation and mental health with emphasis placed on Latino and Asian American populations are presented. This chapter concludes with recommendations for future acculturation research and underscores areas in need of additional empirical inquiry.
Overview: Gastrointestinal and Hepatic Diseases

Since 2010, major advances in our understanding of a number of immunological diseases of the gastrointestinal tract have occurred. These are well described in the several chapters of this section on mucosal immunology. In this overview, we briefly summarize some of the main new findings in this important area of mucosal immunity.
Dispersion of Buoyant Emissions from Low Level Sources in Urban Areas

The projected increase in distributed power generation has given rise to the need for a model to examine the air quality impact of small power plants located in urban areas. This model needs to treat plume rise and dispersion of a buoyant release in an inhomogeneous urban boundary layer whose structure is governed by complex surface characteristics. Models such as AERMOD [Cimorelli AJ, Perry SG, Venkatram A, Weil JC, Paine RJ, Wilson RB, Lee RF, Peters WD, Brode RW (2005) AERMOD: A dispersion model for industrial source applications. Part I: General model formulation and boundary layer characterization. J Appl Meteorol 44(5):682–693] are not designed for such sources, although they do include methods to account for the effects of isolated buildings on dispersion. This paper describes progress in developing a dispersion model that treats the governing processes relevant to an urban boundary layer. The model is being developed using data from a field study conducted in the vicinity of a distributed generator (DG). The data from the field study was supplemented with data from simulations conducted in a water channel.
Anemia in the Turks and Caicos Islands: exploring the dietary link.

OBJECTIVE To conduct the first national dietary survey and examine inter-island differences in and relationships between iron consumption and reports of anemia. DESIGN AND METHODS A total of 144 households, randomly selected from electoral lists for Grand Turk (n=48), Providenciales (n=46), and Middle Caicos (n=50), participated in the survey. Food consumption (via food frequency questionnaire), self-reported health history, and sociodemographic data were collected from female household-heads during home interviews. Data on frequency of consumption and tabulated iron score for each "normal" food portion size were used to calculate each household's iron-intake-score. Chi-squared analyses were used to compare inter-island intake score categories. RESULTS Households were assigned to low ( 160) iron-intake-score categories. The proportion of households with low scores was lower on Grand Turk (<5%) and Providenciales (0%) compared to Middle Caicos (20%), the least developed island. CONCLUSION Suboptimal iron intakes, especially on Middle Caicos, support the prevailing view that anemia in vulnerable groups could be of dietary origin. Findings highlight the need for additional research to determine how various factors (eg, diet, supplement use, physiology, and environment) impact iron status. In the short term, we must identify and treat cases and provide culturally appropriate nutrition education to increase dietary iron intake and promote safe use of multivitamin/mineral supplements. National dependence on imported foods makes this the most viable public health intervention option until the etiology of anemia is fully determined.
Optimizing wound healing. A practice within nursing's domain.

Clinicians could be overwhelmed with all that needs to be done to advance the clinical care of tissue wounds. This is not the time to be discouraged, however. Perhaps there has been no period in the history of health care when the possibility of influencing future trends in wound care was greater. Generally speaking, nurses are increasing their understanding of their place in healing activities and are involved in tending wounds that demand greater direct care. Simultaneously, some manufacturers of wound care products seek the input of clinicians as they attempt to produce sound and usable products. Articles appear that delimit scientifically based approaches to wound care and debunk those based solely on tradition. Levine reminded us that "perhaps no worker can influence the success of the healing process more than the nurse." I encourage the readers of this article to take Levine's statement to heart, to latch onto the current momentum, and to force the next decade in health care to be referred to not as the "era of the wound" but rather as the "era of healing."
Intention to Enact and Enactment of Gatekeeper Behaviors for Suicide Prevention: an Application of the Theory of Planned Behavior

Gatekeeper training for suicide prevention was evaluated on a college campus to examine the impact of training on gatekeeper enactment of behaviors in support of suicide prevention and identify predictors of enactment of gatekeeper behaviors. Trained gatekeepers (N = 216) displayed greater perceived knowledge and self-efficacy for suicide prevention and reported higher rates of self-reported actual gatekeeper behaviors, including inquiring about suicidal ideation and referring for mental health treatment when they encountered someone in distress, compared to their untrained counterparts (N = 169). Consistent with the Theory of Planned Behavior, SEM results indicated that attitudes, self-efficacy, and perceived knowledge explained intentions to engage in gatekeeper behaviors, accounting for 59% of the variance in intentions to inquire about suicidal ideation and supporting the role of attitudes and perceived behavioral control in intentions to act. These intentions explained self-reported actual gatekeeper behaviors among participants who encountered someone in distress, with each one-point increase in intention associated with nearly twice the likelihood of both inquiring about suicidal ideation and referring someone for mental health care. On the other hand, self-reported situational barriers were associated with a decreased likelihood of referral behavior, indicating the role of actual behavioral control over volitional actions. Findings support the value of gatekeeper training for promoting factors that influence the likelihood of action on behalf of suicide prevention.
Computational efficiency for the surface renewal method

Abstract. Measuring surface fluxes using the surface renewal (SR) method requires programmatic algorithms for tabulation, algebraic calculation, and data quality control. A number of different methods have been published describing automated calibration of SR parameters. Because the SR method utilizes high-frequency (10 Hz +) measurements, some steps in the flux calculation are computationally expensive, especially when automating SR to perform many iterations of these calculations. Several new algorithms were written that perform the required calculations more efficiently and rapidly, and that tested for sensitivity to length of flux averaging period, ability to measure over a large range of lag timescales, and overall computational efficiency. These algorithms utilize signal processing techniques and algebraic simplifications that demonstrate simple modifications that dramatically improve computational efficiency. The results here complement efforts by other authors to standardize a robust and accurate computational SR method. Increased speed of computation time grants flexibility to implementing the SR method, opening new avenues for SR to be used in research, for applied monitoring, and in novel field deployments.
Abstract P231: Patient-Centered Care of Stage I and II Hypertension in Underserved Communities

Background: Inadequate BP control leads to excess cardiovascular disease risk (CVD), especially in underserved communities. Patient-centered care tools including home monitoring of BP are key components in BP control and CVD risk reduction. We compared two communication methods to modify CVD risk in hypertensive patients. We also tested whether either strategy is more effective in stage I or II hypertension. Methods: 388 asymptomatic subjects (59% white, 37% AA) with Framingham risk score >10% from one urban and one rural center completed our trial. 37% had StageI HTN (SBP 140-159 mmHg), and 24% StageII HTN (SBP≥160 mmHg). Subjects were randomized to nurse management (NM) with 4 visits/year, or nurse management plus Telemedicine (T). T group reported weight, BP, steps/day at least weekly via internet (average 6.3 reports/month). Periodic summaries were sent to patients and to their care providers Results: BP decreased substantially in both groups, with a significant difference in BP reduction between NM and T in patients with stageI HTN (P=0.037-see graph). T had a lower 8 month average BP compared to NM (T: 134.6 ± 15.0, NM: 140.4±16.9 mmHg, P Conclusion: Telemedicine improved BP control in patients with StageI HTN more than with StageII HTN. It appears that SBP ≥160 is more likely to be immediately treated by care providers than SBP in the (140-159) range. StageI patients, therefore, had greater benefit from Telemedicine as it stimulated a more effective intervention by their care providers.
Dynamic Control of dNTP Synthesis in Early Embryos

Exponential increase of cell numbers in early embryos requires large amounts of DNA precursors (deoxyribonucleoside triphosphates (dNTPs)). Little is understood about how embryos satisfy this demand. We examined dNTP metabolism in the early Drosophila embryo, in which gastrulation is preceded by 13 sequential nuclear cleavages within only 2 hr of fertilization. Surprisingly, despite the breakneck speed at which Drosophila embryos synthesize DNA, maternally deposited dNTPs can generate less than half of the genomes needed to reach gastrulation. The rest of the dNTPs are synthesized "on the go." The rate-limiting enzyme of dNTP synthesis, ribonucleotide reductase, is inhibited by endogenous levels of deoxyATP (dATP) present at fertilization and is activated as dATP is depleted via DNA polymerization. This feedback inhibition renders the concentration of dNTPs at gastrulation robust, with respect to large variations in maternal supplies, and is essential for normal progression of embryogenesis.
THU0410 Gout and the risk of incident erectile dysfunction: a body mass index-matched population-based study

Background Gout is the most common inflammatory arthritis. Erectile dysfunction is common in the general population; however, evidence regarding erectile dysfunction among gout patients is limited. Objectives Our purpose was to study whether there was an increased risk of erectile dysfunction among gout patients, as compared with the general population. Methods We conducted a cohort study using The Health Improvement Network, an electronic medical record database in the United Kingdom. Up to five individuals without gout were matched to each case of incident gout by age, enrolment time, and body mass index. Multivariate Hazard Ratios for erectile dysfunction were calculated after adjusting for smoking, alcohol consumption, comorbidities and medication use. Results We identified 2290 new cases of erectile dysfunction among 38,438 patients with gout (mean age 63.6 years) and 8447 cases among 154,332 individuals in the comparison cohort over a 5-year median follow up (11.9 vs. 10.5 per 1000 person-years, respectively). Univariate (age, entry time and body mass index-matched) and multivariate Hazard Ratios for erectile dysfunction among patients with gout were 1.13 (95% CI, 1.08 to 1.19) and 1.15 (95% CI, 1.09 to 1.21), respectively. In our sensitivity analysis, restricting gout cases to those receiving anti-gout treatment (n=31,227) the magnitude of relative risk was stronger than the primary analysis; (multivariate Hazard Ratios =1.29; 95% CI, 1.22 to 1.37). Conclusions This population-based study suggests an increased risk of erectile dysfunction among gout patients, supporting a possible role for hyperuricemia and inflammation as independent risk factors for erectile dysfunction. References Jackson G, et al. Int J Clin Pract 2002; 56: 663. Clarson L, et al. Ann Rheum Dis 2015; 74: 4642. Schlesinger N, et al. J Rheumatol 2015; 42: 1893. Vlachopoulos C, et al. Eur Urol 2007; 2:1590. Disclosure of Interest N. Schlesinger Grant/research support from: Astra Zeneca, Consultant for: Astra Zeneca, Horizon, Celgene, ProteoThera, Pfizer, N. Lu: None declared, H. Choi Grant/research support from: Astra Zeneca, Consultant for: Takeda, Selecta
An Irradiance-Independent, Robust Ground-Fault Detection Scheme for PV Arrays Based on Spread Spectrum Time-Domain Reflectometry (SSTDR)

A healthy photovoltaic (PV) array has a specific impedance between node pairs, and any ground fault changes the impedance values. Reflectometry is a well-known technique in electromagnetics, and it could be exploited to detect fault and aging-related impedance variations in a PV system. A fault detection algorithm using the spread spectrum time-domain reflectometry (SSTDR) method has been introduced in this paper. SSTDR has been successfully used for detecting and locating aircraft wiring faults. However, the wide variation in impedance throughout the entire PV system, which is caused by the use of different materials and interconnections makes PV fault detection more challenging while using reflectometry. Unlike other conventional ground-fault detection techniques specifically developed for PV arrays, SSTDR does not depend on fault-current magnitudes. Therefore, SSTDR can be used even in the absence of the solar irradiation, which makes it a very powerful fault-detection tool. The proposed PV ground-fault detection technique has been tested in a real-world PV system, and it can confidently detect PV ground faults for different configurations of PV arrays (single and double strings) and fault resistances (0.5, 5, and 10- $\Omega$ ). Moreover, it has been experimentally verified that our proposed algorithm works at low irradiance and can detect specific ground faults that may remain undetected using the conventional ground-fault detection and interrupter (GFDI) fuses.
UPS: A new approach for multiple sequence alignment using morphing techniques

We present a novel computational method for Multiple Sequence Alignment (MSA), a fundamental problem in computational biology. In contrast to other known approaches, our method searches for an optimal alignment — structurally and evolutionarily — by inserting or deleting gaps from a set of initial candidates in an efficient manner. Our method called a Universal Partitioning Search (UPS) approach for MSA uses graphical morphism to guarantee that the scores of the alignment candidates are always improved after each particle swarm optimization iteration. We compare our novel method with previous known methods and report our experimental results using BAliBASE test suites. Our initial results showed that the multiple sequence alignments found by our software, which was implemented in Maple and C/Java, are better in some cases or comparable with current state-of-the-art software.
Spectroscopic and Computational Characterization of Diethylenetriaminepentaacetic Acid/Transplutonium Chelates: Evidencing Heterogeneity in the Heavy Actinide(III) Series

The chemistry of trivalent transplutonium ions (Am3+ , Cm3+ , Bk3+ , Cf3+ , Es3+ …) is usually perceived as monotonic and paralleling that of the trivalent lanthanide series. Herein, we present the first extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) study performed on a series of aqueous heavy actinide chelates, extending past Cm. The results obtained on diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA) complexes of trivalent Am, Cm, Bk, and Cf show a break to much shorter metal-oxygen nearest-neighbor bond lengths in the case of Cf3+ . Corroborating those results, density functional theory calculations, extended to Es3+ , suggest that the shorter Cf-O and Es-O bonds could arise from the departure of the coordinated water molecule and contraction of the ligand around the metal relative to the other [MIII DTPA(H2 O)]2- (M=Am, Cm, Bk) complexes. Taken together, these experimental and theoretical results demonstrate inhomogeneity within the trivalent transplutonium series that has been insinuated and debated in recent years, and that may also be leveraged for future nuclear waste reprocessing technologies.
Bangladeshi Anglophone Literature: Rerouting the Hegemony of Global English

By examining the implicit triangulation of the English, Bangla and Urdu languages in contemporary Bangladeshi Anglophone literature, this essay puts pressure on persistent binaries in debates about...
Diagnostic value of the history and examination in giant cell arteritis: a clinical pathological study of 81 temporal artery biopsies

To determine the value of the history and examination in predicting a temporal artery biopsy result, 81 temporal artery biopsies between 1974-1980 were studied. Each biopsy was scored blindly and independently by 2 pathologists and correlated with clinical data and the indications for biopsy at the time of the biopsy. Thirteen biopsies had giant cells and were considered positive, 8 had mononuclear inflammatory cells in the wall (7 cases) or healed arteritis (1 case) and were considered probable, and 60 were negative. In patients with an elevated sedimentation rate, the presence of a sign (tenderness or abnormal temporal artery), or a symptom (visual change or headache) predicted 18 of 21 (86%) positive-probable biopsies, but misclassified 32 of 60 negative biopsies. Attempts to derive a clinical decision rule with improved specificity resulted in unacceptably low sensitivity (missing 5 of 21 positive-probable biopsies). A minimum 5-year followup showed that those patients treated with steroids had a 6-fold increase in fractures and a 4-fold increase in cataracts.
Hero Worship and the Heroic in Neuroscience

In the past century the research institute has become the temple in which scientific truth is revealed, and the idols are great scientists. The scientific world-view has become a replacement for religion. Many scientists who reject religion bow down in a state of awe before the mysteries of the universe and kneel in adoration before the idols of science. In place of the saints of religion they have substituted the savants of science.
Some Structure-Function Relationships in the Subtilisins

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses some structure-function relationships in the subtilisins. It is evident that considerable variation in primary sequence exists among the subtilisins, although these form a homologous family of enzymes. One shall not be concerned with problems of bacterial taxonomy, although some of these enzymes may be produced by different species and, perhaps, even by different genera, but shall use the name subtilisin in the broadest sense. The residues near the active serine residue may have little influence on the reaction mechanism, in determining the reactivity of the serine hydroxyl group or in determining the specificity of the enzyme. However, sequences may be of taxonomic value in classifying the various types of enzymes. Although the reactive serine residue in the subtilisins is in an invariant sequence, this is not the case for the reactive histidine. The residue on the amino-terminal side of histidine 64 is glycine for the Carlsberg enzyme and serine for BPN’. It is tempting to assume that this single amino acid replacement may account in part for the absolute greater activity of subtilisin Carlsberg and some of the small differences in specificity exhibited by two enzymes.
Enlisting the Collaboration of the Educational Technology Professional Community to Develop a Knowledge Management System of the Field: edu-techKNOWiki

The field of educational technology evolves rapidly, increasing in complexity and sophistication; educators struggle to keep up to date. Current Internet development with Web 2.0 technology marks a paradigm shift in how the Internet is used, away from a depository of content information and toward a means of collaboration for knowledge sharing and building. Faculty from Eastern Michigan University’s Educational Media and Technology program describes a nationwide collaboration and development of a knowledge management system which organizes information related to educational technology in the form of a wiki (http://edu-teKNOWiki.emich.edu). This innovative system is an “open educational resource” for professional development.
Topical Wound Care Treatment and Indications for Their Use

In this chapter, we will explore the role of various topical wound care strategies, and the evidence, or lack thereof, in support of their use in diabetic foot ulcer patients. The chapter is divided into two major sections that cover Basic and Advanced wound care strategies. The myriad wound care compounds, dressings, and devices are discussed. The chapter concludes with general recommendation for ulcer management based on stage.
The impact of method of recurrence detection on esophageal/gastroesophageal junction (EGJ) cancer outcomes.

e15580Background: Trimodality treatment (tx) with neoadjuvant chemoradiation (CRT) followed by esophagectomy is standard tx for locally advanced EGJ cancer. Post-operatively, there is no strong con...
Abstract 5054: Are co-occurring structural birth defects associated with risk of acute lymphoblastic leukemia among children with Down syndrome

Background: Children with Down syndrome (DS) have a 15- to 20-fold increased risk of developing acute leukemia (ALL). While children with DS typically also present with multiple co-occurring major and minor structural birth defects, very little is known about whether the number and type of these co-occurring birth defects in children with DS are associated with risk of ALL. Methods: The Genetic Overlap Between Anomalies and Cancer in Kids (GOBACK) Study included linking data from population-based birth defects and cancer registries in Texas for the years 1999-2013. We performed a case-control analysis of ALL risk in participants diagnosed with DS. We evaluated the risk of ALL according to the presence of major birth defects in eight organ systems, as well as by the number of birth defects. Results: We identified 7,684 children with DS (controls) and 81 children with DS-ALL (cases) from among 5.7 million live births. There was a high burden of co-occurring birth defects in both the DS and DS-ALL groups, with 97% compared to 98% being diagnosed with at least one co-occurring birth defect (p = 0.39), respectively, and 68% compared to 71% being diagnosed with at least one major birth defect (p = 0.33). Similar to what has been reported among the general population of ALL patients, children with DS and ALL had a significantly higher mean birthweight (3088 vs 2891 g, p Conclusions: In this population-based assessment, we did not find strong evidence that co-occurring structural birth defects were related to ALL risk among children with DS. However, the small numbers of children with DS-ALL make it difficult to draw definitive conclusions. Citation Format: Jeremy M. Schraw, Tiffany M. Chambers, John P. Woodhouse, Peter H. Langlois, Mark A. Canfield, Angela E. Scheuerle, Michael E. Scheurer, Sharon E. Plon, Karen R. Rabin, Philip J. Lupo. Are co-occurring structural birth defects associated with risk of acute lymphoblastic leukemia among children with Down syndrome [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2019; 2019 Mar 29-Apr 3; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 5054.
Response to Comment on “Long-term measles-induced immunomodulation increases overall childhood infectious disease mortality”

Thakkar and McCarthy suggest that periodicity in measles incidence artifactually drives our estimates of a 2- to 3-year duration of measles “immune-amnesia.” We show that periodicity has a negligible effect relative to the immunological signal we detect, and demonstrate that immune-amnesia is largely undetectable in small populations with large fluctuations in mortality of the type they use for illustration.
What are the essentials of system integration

In summary, the Luke article is a solid starting point for understanding the relationships between existing hospital systems, developing regional systems, and ultimate benefits to patients, their employers, and their communities. We clearly have a long way to go though, and the attention should turn to some of the key functional features of integrated systems.
Anatomy and Anthropometry of the Ear

The intricacy and distinctiveness of the ear’s topography poses a particular challenge to the reconstructive surgeon. The skin of the ear differs by location, with the skin of the lateral surface being very thin and sensitive, while that of the medial surface is thicker, and very soft. Muscles of the ear, though serving very few purposes, are categorized as either internal or external auricular muscles. It is the internal auricular muscles that create the characteristic folds seen in the ear, while the external auricular muscles stabilize the entire ear. Arterial blood flow to the auricle relies on the superficial temporal artery and the posterior auricular artery, which together form an arcade that supplies blood to the helix. Sensory information from the external ear is carried by the great auricular nerve, the auricular branch of the vagus nerve, the auriculotemporal nerve, and the lesser occipital nerve, while motor innervation is provided by branches of the facial nerve. Possessing a thorough understanding of the anatomy presented herein, in addition to the anthropometric characteristics of a “normal” ear remains critical for surgeons performing ear reconstruction.
A highly efficient uranium grabber derived from acrylic fiber for extracting uranium from seawater

Acrylic fiber can be chemically converted to an amidoxime and carboxylate containing chelating adsorbent by a two-step synthesis method for extraction of uranium from seawater. A portion of the nitrile groups in the fiber is first converted to amidoxime using hydroxylamine followed by conversion of another portion of the nitrile groups to carboxylate with NaOH. At an optimized ratio of amidoxime/carboxylate (about 1 : 1), the chelating fiber in real seawater shows a higher uranium adsorption capacity and shorter saturation time compared with similar high-surface-area chelating fibers developed recently using a radiation-induced grafting method. The saturation capacity of uranium is estimated to be 7.73 grams per kilogram of the adsorbent at 20 °C and the half-saturation time is about 15.7 days. The fiber shows a vanadium/uranium ratio of about 1 in real seawater tests. The low vanadium adsorption capacity of the fiber is attributed to the branched-chain amidoxime groups formed by the specified amidoximation process. This simple and low-cost synthesis method can be scaled up to mass produce the chelating fiber for recovering metals from various aquatic environments including production of uranium from seawater.
The compositional optimization and secondary phases evaluation regarding the creep resistance in Grade 91 steel through the CALPHAD approach

Abstract The critical secondary phases along with critical temperatures in regard to the creep resistance of Grade 91 steel alloy were evaluated in order to optimize the composition of the alloy to improve the creep resistance. The critical temperatures which are highlighted in this paper are Ac1 (the threshold temperature in which austinite begins to form), and Ac3 (the threshold temperature at which ferrite is fully transformed into austenite). Furthermore, optimization was presented through various Cr, V, Nb, and N concentrations in Gr.91 in relation to these critical temperatures and the mole fraction of M23C6, MX, and Z-Phase as critical secondary phases. The results indicate that increasing V and Nb will increase MX stability, whereas decreasing Cr and N lead to a decrease in Z-Phase and M23C6 stability, which may lead to an increased creep resistance of the material. Upon further analyzing the V, Nb, and N concentrations in Gr.91, results indicate that increasing Nb content in the steel can lead to an increased stability of Nb-rich MX2 carbide which can be used to replace Z-Phase in low N steels. Simulation results indicate that elimination of N with a dramatic increase in Nb concentrations result in the stability increase of only M23C6 and MX2 phases at temperature regions between 600 °C and 1370 °C and a complete removal of Z-Phase precipitation. Overall, with the elimination of N, which destabilizes Z-Phase precipitation, and an increase in Nb for NbC carbide stability, a possible solution to increasing both long-term and short-term creep resistance for Gr.91 can be achieved, though further optimization and creep experiments need to be conducted for final conclusions.
Rates of Potentially Inappropriate Dosing of Direct-Acting Oral Anticoagulants and Associations With Geriatric Conditions Among Older Patients With Atrial Fibrillation: The SAGE-AF Study.

Background Direct‐acting oral anticoagulant (DOAC) dosing guidelines for atrial fibrillation recommend dose alteration based on age, renal function, body weight, and drug‐drug interactions. There i...
Room-Temperature Continuous-Wave Electrically Driven Semipolar (202̅1) Blue Laser Diodes Heteroepitaxially Grown on a Sapphire Substrate

Growth of semipolar GaN laser diodes (LDs) on low-cost and large-size foreign substrates is crucial yet remains very challenging. In this study, we report the world’s first continuous-wave (CW) ele...
Slower nutrient stream suppresses Subarctic Atlantic Ocean biological productivity in global warming

Earth system models (ESMs) project that global warming suppresses biological productivity in the Subarctic Atlantic Ocean as increasing ocean surface buoyancy suppresses two physical drivers of nutrient supply: vertical mixing and meridional circulation. However, the quantitative sensitivity of productivity to surface buoyancy is uncertain and the relative importance of the physical drivers is unknown. Here, we present a simple predictive theory of how mixing, circulation, and productivity respond to increasing surface buoyancy in 21st-century global warming scenarios. With parameters constrained by observations, the theory suggests that the reduced northward nutrient transport, owing to a slower ocean circulation, explains the majority of the reduced productivity in a warmer climate. The theory also informs present-day biases in a set of ESM simulations as well as the physical underpinnings of their 21st-century projections. Hence, this theoretical understanding can facilitate the development of improved 21st-century projections of marine biogeochemistry and ecosystems.
Hydrogen Peroxide 40% for the Treatment of Seborrheic Keratoses.

Objective:Hydrogen peroxide 40% (HP40) was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for topical treatment of seborrheic keratosis (SK) in December 2017. This article will review phase II and...
Stereotactic body radiation therapy for empirically treated hypermetabolic lung lesions: a single-institutional experience identifying the Charlson score as a key prognostic factor

Background Though pathologic evidence for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is preferred, many patients do not receive a biopsy prior to treatment with stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT). This study seeks to analyze the overall survival (OS), local control, and toxicity rates for such patients. Methods This retrospective review included patients empirically treated with SBRT for presumed non-metastatic NSCLC at a single institution. Inclusion criteria included a hypermetabolic pulmonary lesion noted on positron emission tomography (PET) imaging but no pathological evidence of NSCLC. Patients with another known metastatic tumor were excluded. Statistical analysis was conducted with Cox proportional hazards analysis, univariate analysis, and the Kaplan-Meier method. Results Ninety-one treatments in 90 unique patients met inclusion criteria. Patients were a median 77.9 years at the start of treatment and had a median Charlson score of 7. Pre-treatment standardized uptake value (SUV) was a median 4.5 and 1.5 after treatment. At a median follow-up of 12.9 months, 36-month local control of 91.3% was achieved. Twenty-four-month OS and progression-free survival were 65.4% and 44.8%, respectively. On univariate analysis, biologically effective dose (BED) ≥120 Gy was predictive of improved OS (P=0.001), with 36-month OS of 50.5% for patients with BED ≥120 Gy and only 31.6% for patients with BED <120 Gy. On Kaplan-Meier analysis, Charlson score ≥9 was predictive of decreased OS (P=0.04), and BED ≥120 Gy trended towards improved OS (P=0.08). Thirty-two cases of grade <3 toxicity were reported, and only two cases of grade 3 morbidity (fatigue) were noted. Conclusions Local control rates for empiric SBRT treatment for hypermetabolic, non-metastatic NSCLC are similar to those for biopsied NSCLC. OS is primarily dependent on a patient's overall health status, which can be accurately assessed with the Charlson score. BED ≥120 Gy may also contribute to improved OS.
Allogenic stem cell transplant-associated acute graft versus host disease: a computational drug discovery text mining approach using oral and gut microbiome signatures.

Acute graft versus host disease (aGVHD) is a major cause of non-relapse morbidity and mortality post-allogenic hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT). Using conventional literature search and computational approaches, our objective was to identify oral and gut bacterial species associated with aGVHD, potentially affecting drug treatment via lipopolysaccharide (LPS) pathways. Medline, PubMed, PubMed Central, and Google Scholar were searched using MeSH terms. The top 100 hits per database were curated, and 25 research articles were selected to examine oral and gut microbiomes associated with health, HSCT, and aGVHD. Literature search validation, aGVHD drug targets, and microbial metabolic pathway identification were completed using BioReader, MACADAM, KEGG, and STRING programs. Our review determined that (1) oral genera Rothia, Solobacterium, and Veillonella were identified in HSCT patients’ stool and associated with aGVHD; (2) shifts in gut enterococci profiles were determined in HSCT-associated aGVHD; (3) gut microbiome dysbiosis prior or during HSCT and lower Shannon diversity index at time of HSCT were also associated with increased risk of aGVHD and transplant related death; and (4) Coriobacteriaceae family was negatively correlated with gut aGVHD, whereas Eubacterium limosum was associated with decreased risk of chronic GVHD relapse. Additionally, we identified molecular pathways related to TLR4/ LPS, including candidate aGVHD drug targets, impacted by oral and gut bacterial taxa. Reduced microbial diversity reflects higher severity and mortality rate in HSCT patients with aGVHD. Multi-omics approaches to decipher oral and gut microbiome associations will be critical for developing aGVHD preventive therapies.
The Able Worry More? Debt Delinquency, Financial Capability, and Financial Stress

Research on the link between debt and financial stress is emerging. This study was one of the first attempts to examine the association between debt delinquency and financial stress and the moderating role of financial capability in the association. Delinquencies in three types of debts were examined: (a) mortgage, (b) credit card, and (c) student loan. With data from the 2018 U.S. National Financial Capability Study, multivariate regression results showed that payment delinquencies of mortgage, credit card and student loans were positively, while financial capability was negatively associated with financial stress. Further, surprisingly, the results implied that among consumers with debt delinquencies, financial capability may increase financial stress. If both financial capability's direct and interactive effect were considered, financial capability may decrease financial stress at much smaller rates than those without debt delinquencies. The situation was the worst among consumers with multiple delinquencies, in which the potential net effect of financial capability on financial stress was positive. The results of this study have implications for consumer financial service practices.
A Soluble Epoxide Hydrolase Inhibitor, 1-trifluoromethoxyphenyl-3-(1-propionylpiperidin-4-yl) Urea, Ameliorates Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are essential FAs for human health. Cytochrome P450 oxygenates PUFAs to produce anti-inflammatory and pain-resolving epoxy fatty acids (EpFAs) and other oxylipins whose epoxide ring is opened by the soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH/Ephx2), resulting in the formation of toxic and pro-inflammatory vicinal diols (dihydroxy-FAs). Pharmacological inhibition of sEH is a promising strategy for the treatment of pain, inflammation, cardiovascular diseases, and other conditions. We tested the efficacy of a potent, selective sEH inhibitor, 1-trifluoromethoxyphenyl-3-(1-propionylpiperidin-4-yl) urea (TPPU), in an animal model of multiple sclerosis (MS), experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). Prophylactic TPPU treatment significantly ameliorated EAE without affecting circulating white blood cell counts. TPPU accumulated in the spinal cords (SCs), which was correlated with plasma TPPU concentration. Targeted lipidomics in EAE SCs and plasma identified that TPPU blocked production of dihydroxy-FAs efficiently and increased some EpFA species including 12(13)-epoxy-octadecenoic acid (12(13)-EpOME) and 17(18)-epoxy-eicosatrienoic acid (17(18)-EpETE). TPPU did not alter levels of cyclooxygenase (COX-1/2) metabolites, while it increased 12-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (12-HETE) and other 12/15-lipoxygenase metabolites. These analytical results are consistent with sEH inhibitors that reduce neuroinflammation and accelerate anti-inflammatory responses, providing the possibility that sEH inhibitors could be used as a disease modifying therapy, as well as for MS-associated pain relief.
Development and molecular characterization of a human ovarian cancer cell line resistant to 2-Methoxyestradiol (1A9-2ME2R)

5092 We have recently identified a mechanistic link between disruption of the microtubule cytoskeleton and inhibition of tumor angiogenesis via the hypoxia inducible factor-1 (HIF-1) pathway. HIF-1 is a pro-angiogenic transcription factor induced primarily by tumor hypoxia, which is critically involved in tumor progression, metastasis and overall survival. We have shown that disruption of interphase microtubules by the microtubule-destabilizing drug 2ME2 impairs tumor angiogenesis by inhibiting HIF-1 levels and transcriptional activity. In order to get more insight on the molecular mechanism of HIF-1α downregulation by 2ME2, we have established a 2ME2 resistant cancer cell line (1A9/2ME2-R), by culturing 1A9 human ovarian cancer cells in the presence of increasing 2ME2 concentrations. Preliminary molecular characterization of the 1A9/2ME2-R cells has identified an acquired β-tubulin point mutation at residue 236 (GTC to ATC) leading to a Val to Ile substitution. These resistant cells exhibited 25-fold resistance to 2ME2 compared with their parental 1A9 counterparts, while remaining sensitive to other microtubule-targeting agents, including paclitaxel, colchicine and vincristine. Further mechanistic studies revealed that 2ME2 was unable to significantly inhibit HIF-1α protein in the 1A9 2ME2-R cells, consistent with the lack of drug-induced tubulin depolymerization in these beta-tubulin mutant cells. This result is in sharp contrast with the ability of 2ME2 to both depolymerize microtubules and inhibit HIF-1α protein in the parental 1A9 cells harboring wild-type tubulin. Our previous observation that pharmacologic disruption of microtubules is required for the downstream HIF-1α inhibition is both extended and confirmed. Ongoing studies in our laboratory are utilizing the 1A9 2ME2-R cells and 2ME2 analogs (modified at positions 3 and 17) as tools to elucidate the mechanism of microtubule-dependent regulation of HIF-1α, and to dissect the structural elements of 2ME2 contributing to the drug’s antitumor and antiangiogenic activity.
Enabling Few-View 3D Tomographic Image Reconstruction by Geometry-Informed Deep Learning.

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S) Deep learning affords enormous opportunities to augment the armamentarium of biomedical imaging, albeit its design and implementation have potential flaws. Fundamentally, most deep learning models are driven entirely by data without consideration of any physical priors, which dramatically increases the complexity of neural networks and limits the application scope and generalizability of the resultant models. Here we establish a geometry-informed deep learning framework for ultra-sparse tomographic image reconstruction. We introduce a novel mechanism for the integration of geometric priors of the imaging system. We demonstrate that the seamless inclusion of known geometric priors is essential to enhance the performance of volumetric computed tomography imaging with ultra-sparse sampling. MATERIALS/METHODS We propose a geometry-informed deep learning framework for 3D tomographic image reconstruction and illustrate the way that the known imaging geometry is integrated into the dual-domain deep learning. Specifically, the proposed framework consists of three modules: a) 2D projection generation network is developed to learn to generate novel-view projections from the given sparse views; b) geometric back-projection operator transforms the 2D projections to 3D images, referred to as geometry preserving images (GPI), which geometrically relates the pixelated 2D input data to the corresponding ray lines in 3D space; and c) 3D image refinement network learns to refine the GPI to generate the final 3D images. To evaluate feasibility of the proposed approach, we conduct experiments on a dataset containing 1018 lung CT images, where 80% and 20% data are used for training and testing. The projection images are digitally produced from CT images using geometry consistent with a clinical on-board cone-beam CT system for radiation therapy. RESULTS We deploy the trained model on the held-out testing set for few-view 3D image reconstruction. The reconstructed results are compared with ground truth qualitatively and quantitatively. For single-/two-/three-view reconstruction, the average NRMSE / SSIM / PSNR values over all testing data are 0.368 / 0.734 / 20.770, 0.300 / 0.807 / 22.687 and 0.274 / 0.838 / 23.669, respectively. By visualizing the reconstructed CT images, we observe the proposed model can generate images closely to the targets although the anatomic structures of different patients have a large variance, indicating the potential of the proposed model for volumetric imaging even with few views. Moreover, experiments also show the proposed model can also be generalized to multi-view 3D image reconstruction and outperform deep models without geometry priors. CONCLUSION We present a novel geometry-integrated deep learning model for volumetric imaging with ultra-sparse sampling. The study opens new avenues for data-driven biomedical imaging and promises to provide substantially improved imaging tools for various clinical imaging and image-guided interventions.
Introduction to Potential Theory

One of the fruitful achievements of probability theory in recent years has been the recognition that two seemingly unrelated theories in physics—one for Brownian motion and one for potentials—are mathematically equivalent. That is, the results of the two theories are in one-to-one correspondence and any proof of a result in one theory can be translated directly into a proof of the corresponding result in the other theory. In this chapter we shall sketch how this equivalence comes about, and we shall see that Brownian motion is a process which is like a Markov chain except that it does not have a denumerable state space and time does not proceed in discrete steps. The details of this equivalence can be found in Knapp [1965]. The important thing to notice will be that the definitions of potential-theoretic concepts in terms of Brownian motion do not depend on isolated specific properties of the process but depend only on the Markovian character of Brownian motion. In other words, there is reasonable hope of defining for an arbitrary Markov chain a potential theory in which analogs of the classical theorems hold.