cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with azithromycin selects for anti-inflammatory microbial metabolites in the emphysematous lung

Introduction Azithromycin (AZM) reduces pulmonary inflammation and exacerbations in patients with COPD having emphysema. The antimicrobial effects of AZM on the lower airway microbiome are not known and may contribute to its beneficial effects. Here we tested whether AZM treatment affects the lung microbiome and bacterial metabolites that might contribute to changes in levels of inflammatory cytokines in the airways. Methods 20 smokers (current or ex-smokers) with emphysema were randomised to receive AZM 250 mg or placebo daily for 8 weeks. Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) was performed at baseline and after treatment. Measurements performed in acellular BAL fluid included 16S rRNA gene sequences and quantity; 39 cytokines, chemokines and growth factors and 119 identified metabolites. The response to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) by alveolar macrophages after ex-vivo treatment with AZM or bacterial metabolites was assessed. Results Compared with placebo, AZM did not alter bacterial burden but reduced α-diversity, decreasing 11 low abundance taxa, none of which are classical pulmonary pathogens. Compared with placebo, AZM treatment led to reduced in-vivo levels of chemokine (C-X-C) ligand 1 (CXCL1), tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-13 and IL-12p40 in BAL, but increased bacterial metabolites including glycolic acid, indol-3-acetate and linoleic acid. Glycolic acid and indol-3-acetate, but not AZM, blunted ex-vivo LPS-induced alveolar macrophage generation of CXCL1, TNF-α, IL-13 and IL-12p40. Conclusion AZM treatment altered both lung microbiota and metabolome, affecting anti-inflammatory bacterial metabolites that may contribute to its therapeutic effects. Trial registration number NCT02557958.
The Influence of Scientists on Nuclear Policy

In this chapter I will trace the rise to prominence of Soviet nuclear physicists after the Second World War. After the successful test of the Soviet atomic bomb in 1949 Soviet physicists were awarded many accolades. By providing the Soviet Union with both the atomic and hydrogen bombs Soviet scientists made an enormous contribution towards the defence of the Soviet Union and, as a result, they gained tremendous prestige and authority. However, the success and resultant increase in stature of the nuclear physicists was tempered by the sensitivity of the contribution they made. Throughout the enterprise of building the bomb the leaders harboured nagging suspicions about the loyalty of the scientific community and their capacity to engage in sabotage. To the extent that modem physics relied on ‘capitalist’ theories to produce its defence contribution, the leaders feared that Soviet scientists were too tied to the West. Adding to this sense of distrust, some scientists tried to move out of their role as ‘bomb-makers’ and into the role of ‘policy-makers’. Despite this lack of trust, the bomb-makers were protected from the ideological ‘crusades’ that otherwise would have had a severe impact upon their lives. The evolving relationship between the nuclear physicists and the political leadership was thus a complex one.
Master timing and TOF module

In conjunction with the development of a beam size monitor (BSM) for the Final Focus Test Beam (FFTB), a general-purpose timing device with capabilities useful for many different applications has been built. The time master consists of a fast clock, a large memory loaded via a PC, and a time vernier (analog) with 8-b resolution. The time master generates an arbitrary pattern of pulses on 16 different channels (up to 256), with a resolution of 1/2 /sup 8/ times the clock period. The clock content is stored in another memory to measure the time of up to 16 channels, with a resolution of 1/2/sup 8/ times the clock period (frequency is set at 50 MHz), using a time-to-amplitude vernier. The data stored in the memory are accessed via a PC. The depth of the memory for pattern generation is 15 b (32767), equal to the depth of the time-measuring part. The device is self-calibrating, simply by prescribing a pattern on the output channels, and reading it into the time measuring section. The total clock length is 24 b, equivalent to 354 ms of time at 50-MHz frequency. Therefore, the resolution is on the order of 32-b (i.e., 24 b of clock plus 8 b of vernier). >
A non-intrusive system for measuring underground power utility cable impedance

It is shown that impedance measurements can be used to quantify transmission line damage. A device design is given for detecting the complex impedance of a transmission line at high frequencies without disrupting regular service. A complementary device is presented that simulates an open circuit at the excitation frequency at some distance from the excitation source, thus increasing the sensitivity of the impedance measurement. Experimental verification data from a prototype measurement device is presented.
Exploring the role of identity in elementary preservice teachers who plan to specialize in science teaching

Abstract Reforms in science education emphasize learning outcomes of elementary students; it is important to prepare elementary teachers to teach reformed-based science. This study interviews twenty elementary preservice teachers who participated in four discipline-specific science teaching methods courses to become elementary science specialists. This study asks: Why do elementary preservice teachers want to specialize in science teaching? And, how do the they narrate change in their identities following enrollment and through the progression of one or more courses? Using an identity lens, we find that discipline specific experiences and practice develops teachers' ability to see themselves as reformed-based elementary science teachers.
A GaN-based 100 W two-stage wireless power transmitter with inherent current source output

A two-stage power conversion architecture for the transmitter in wireless power transfer applications is introduced. The system achieves high efficiency at output powers up to 100W, and exhibits constant output current over varying load impedance. A front-end bridgeless totem pole rectifier provides power factor correction (PFC), necessary at the designed power level. This rectifier achieves high efficiency by eliminating the conventional diode full bridge and by achieving soft switching operation. A full bridge inverter, switching at 6.78MHz, generates the AC output. Combined with an output passive filter network, the inverter achieves constant output current with load variation without the need for dynamic feedback control. A prototype system is constructed and tested experimentally to verify operation.
Tone Polarity in K?nni nouns

Since Kenstowicz et at's analysis of Moore (1988), a widespread view is that tone polarity does not exist; apparent polarity is actually dissimilation. This paper shows that an OCP-based dissimilation analysis cannot account for the full range of K:mni data, and presents a morpheme-specific POLAR constraint referring to the Noun Class 1 plural suffix. POLAR is satisfied in two or possibly three ways: the polar tone may be inserted, be already present in the input, or possibly spread from the definite suffix. The polar tone is not always on the word's edge, and for some words may even be floating. The analysis here thus supports the assertion of Newman (1995) that tone polarity is a natural pattern of language.
Cry3Bb1-Resistant Western Corn Rootworm, Diabrotica virgifera virgifera (LeConte) Does Not Exhibit Cross-Resistance to DvSnf7 dsRNA.

Background and Methodology There is a continuing need to express new insect control compounds in transgenic maize against western corn rootworm, Diabrotica virgifera virgifera (LeConte) (WCR). In this study three experiments were conducted to determine cross-resistance between the new insecticidal DvSnf7 dsRNA, and Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) Cry3Bb1; used to control WCR since 2003, with field-evolved resistance being reported. Laboratory susceptible and Cry3Bb1-resistant WCR were evaluated against DvSnf7 dsRNA in larval diet-incorporation bioassays. Additionally, the susceptibility of seven field and one field-derived WCR populations to DvSnf7 (and Cry3Bb1) was assessed in larval diet-overlay bioassays. Finally, beetle emergence of laboratory susceptible and Cry3Bb1-resistant WCR was evaluated with maize plants in the greenhouse expressing Cry3Bb1, Cry34Ab1/Cry35Ab1, or DvSnf7 dsRNA singly, or in combination. Principal Findings and Conclusions The Cry3Bb1-resistant colony had slight but significantly (2.7-fold; P<0.05) decreased susceptibility to DvSnf7 compared to the susceptible colony, but when repeated using a field-derived WCR population selected for reduced Cry3Bb1 susceptibility, there was no significant difference (P<0.05) in DvSnf7 susceptibility compared to that same susceptible population. Additionally, this 2.7-fold difference in susceptibility falls within the range of DvSnf7 susceptibility among the seven field populations tested. Additionally, there was no correlation between susceptibility to DvSnf7 and Cry3Bb1 for all populations evaluated. In greenhouse studies, there were no significant differences (P<0.05) between beetle emergence of susceptible and Cry3Bb1-resistant colonies on DvSnf7 and Cry34Ab1/Cry35Ab1, and between DvSnf7 and MON 87411 (DvSnf7 + Cry3Bb1) for the Cry3Bb1-resistant colony. These results demonstrate no cross-resistance between DvSnf7 and Cry3Bb1 against WCR. Therefore, pyramiding DvSnf7 with Bt proteins such as Cry3Bb1 and Cry34Ab1/Cry35Ab1 will provide a valuable IRM tool against WCR that will increase the durability of these Bt proteins. These results also illustrate the importance of using appropriate bioassay methods when characterizing field-evolved resistant WCR populations.
Liberal Communication Needed for Rational Practices

The issue examined in this book has been agricultural biotechnology and the use of technical rationalism in the assessment, management, and communication of risk. It has been my recurrent argument that although the practice of risk analysis among industry technicians and governmental administrators is based on the ideology of liberalism, it is an impoverished or not fully performed form of liberalism. At stake in this poorly assessed, managed, and communicated risk analysis are billions of dollars in investments by the biotechnology industry and American farmers who have rapidly adopted varieties of corn, potatoes, cotton and soybeans that have been engineered to produce higher yields or resist pests. As a consequence of the American bureaucratic culture not learning any lessons from the dairy debate, the significant public policy divorce of rational-scientific risk and liberal-social risk continues today. The lack of public understanding, consent, trust, and discourse about the role of genetically altered milk in the future of agriculture is a prime example of the need for a broader analysis of risk that appreciates democratic values. Inclusive political analysis must become part of democratic life in America because the opinions associated with proponents and opponents of risk analysis are laden with ethical implications for the entire society.
Stigma and Conspiracy Beliefs Related to Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and Interest in Using PrEP Among Black and White Men and Transgender Women Who Have Sex with Men.

The HIV/AIDS epidemic in the US continues to persist, in particular, among race, sexual orientation, and gender minority populations. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), or using antiretroviral medications for HIV prevention, is an effective option, but uptake of PrEP has been slow. Sociocultural barriers to using PrEP have been largely underemphasized, yet have the potential to stall uptake and, therefore, warrant further understanding. In order to assess the relationships between potential barriers to PrEP (i.e., PrEP stigma and conspiracy beliefs), and interest in PrEP, Black men and transgender women who have sex with men (BMTW, N = 85) and White MTW (WMTW, N = 179) were surveyed at a gay pride event in 2015 in a large southeastern US city. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were completed to examine factors associated with PrEP interest. Among the full sample, moderate levels of PrEP awareness (63%) and low levels of use (9%) were observed. Believing that PrEP is for people who are promiscuous (stigma belief) was strongly associated with lack of interest in using PrEP, and individuals who endorsed this belief were more likely to report sexual risk taking behavior. Conspiracy beliefs related to PrEP were reported among a large minority of the sample (42%) and were more frequently reported among BMTW than WMTW. Given the strong emphasis on the use of biomedical strategies for HIV prevention, addressing sociocultural barriers to PrEP access is urgently needed and failure to do so will weaken the potential benefits of biomedical prevention.
Point:Counterpoint "Release of an endothelium-derived vasoconstrictor and RhoA/Rho kinase-mediated calcium sensitization of smooth muscle cell contraction are/are not the main effectors for full and sustained hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction".

The following letters are in response to Point:Counterpoint: “Release of an endothelium-derived vasoconstrictor and RhoA/Rho kinase-mediated calcium sensitization of smooth muscle cell contraction are/are not the main effectors for full and sustained hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction” that
Genetic Basis of Positive and Negative Symptom Domains in Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a highly heritable disorder, the genetic etiology of which has been well established. Yet despite significant advances in genetics research, the pathophysiological mechanisms of this disorder largely remain unknown. This gap has been attributed to the complexity of the polygenic disorder, which has a heterogeneous clinical profile. Examining the genetic basis of schizophrenia subphenotypes, such as those based on particular symptoms, is thus a useful strategy for decoding the underlying mechanisms. This review of literature examines the recent advances (from 2011) in genetic exploration of positive and negative symptoms in schizophrenia. We searched electronic databases PubMed, Web of Science, and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature using key words schizophrenia, symptoms, positive symptoms, negative symptoms, cognition, genetics, genes, genetic predisposition, and genotype in various combinations. We identified 115 articles, which are included in the review. Evidence from these studies, most of which are genetic association studies, identifies shared and unique gene associations for the symptom domains. Genes associated with neurotransmitter systems and neuronal development/maintenance primarily constitute the shared associations. Needed are studies that examine the genetic basis of specific symptoms within the broader domains in addition to functional mechanisms. Such investigations are critical to developing precision treatment and care for individuals afflicted with schizophrenia.
Edge-aware inter-domain routing for realizing next-generation mobility services

This work describes a clean-slate inter-domain routing protocol designed to meet the needs of the future mobile Internet. In particular, we describe the edge-aware inter-domain routing (EIR) protocol which provides new abstractions of aggregated-nodes (aNodes) and virtual-links (vLinks) for expressing network topologies and edge network properties necessary to address next-generation mobility related routing scenarios which are inadequately supported by the border gateway protocol (BGP) in use today. Specific use-cases addressed by EIR include emerging mobility service scenarios such as multi-homing across WiFi and cellular, multipath routing over several access networks, and anycast access from mobile devices to replicated cloud services. Simulation results for protocol overhead are presented for a global-scale Caida topology, leading to an identification of parameters necessary to obtain a good balance between overhead and routing table convergence time. A Click-based proof-of-concept implementation of EIR on the ORBIT testbed is described and used to validate performance and functionality for selected mobility use-cases, including mobile data services with open WiFi access points and mobile platforms such as buses operating in an urban area.
Recent Advances in Enzymatic Complexity Generation: Cyclization Reactions

Enzymes in biosynthetic pathways, especially in plant and microbial metabolism, generate structural and functional group complexity in small molecules by conversion of acyclic frameworks to cyclic scaffolds via short, efficient routes. The distinct chemical logic used by several distinct classes of cyclases, oxidative and non-oxidative, has recently been elucidated by genome mining, heterologous expression, and genetic and mechanistic analyses. These include enzymes performing pericyclic transformations, pyran synthases, tandem acting epoxygenases, and epoxide “hydrolases”, as well as oxygenases and radical S-adenosylmethionine enzymes that involve rearrangements of substrate radicals under aerobic or anaerobic conditions.
The Justice of Contradictions: Antonin Scalia and the Politics of Disruption (Preface)

Engaging but caustic and openly ideological, Antonin Scalia was among the most influential justices ever to serve on the United States Supreme Court. In this new book, legal scholar Richard L. Hasen assesses Scalia’s complex legacy as a conservative legal thinker and disruptive public intellectual. The left saw Scalia as an unscrupulous foe who amplified his judicial role with scathing dissents and outrageous public comments. The right viewed him as a rare principled justice committed to neutral tools of constitutional and statutory interpretation. Hasen provides a more nuanced perspective, demonstrating how Scalia was crucial to reshaping jurisprudence on issues from abortion to gun rights to separation of powers. A jumble of contradictions, Scalia promised neutral tools to legitimize the Supreme Court, but his jurisprudence and confrontational style moved the Court to the right, alienated potential allies, and helped to delegitimize the institution he was trying to save.
Modulation of cytokine/chemokine production in human macrophages by bisphenol A: A comparison to analogues and interactions with genistein

The immunotoxicant bisphenol A (BPA) may produce toxic effects on organs and systems, in part, by altering the secretion of cytokines and chemokines. However, systematic studies of the effects of BPA, let alone of its analogs and in cases when there are interactions with other chemicals, on innate immunity and cytokine modulation are limited. The objectives of this study were to investigate the immunomodulatory effects of: (1) BPA and its analogs, BPS and BPAF; and (2) the interaction between BPA and genistein (GEN), a partial estrogen agonist or antagonist. BPA, BPS, and BPAF were incubated with PMA-differentiated-U937 cells (a widely used cell line for primary human macrophages) at concentrations of 0, 0.1, 1, 10, 100 µM for up to 96 h. BPA (0, 0.1, 1, 10 µM) and GEN (0, 1, 10 µM) were also applied at various combinations. Cell viability and 30 cytokines/chemokines were measured. The results showed that the cell viability-inhibiting effect of these three bisphenols was BPAF > BPA > BPS. At 0.1 µM, BPA and BPAF generally increased the secretion of cytokines/chemokines, while BPS had minimal effects. All three bisphenols generally suppressed the secretion of cytokines/chemokines at 1 µM, while increased their secretion at 10 µM. The most increased cytokines/chemokines were interferon (IFN)-γ, interleukin (IL)-1RA, IL-8 and MIP-1β, and the most decreased was IL-10. GEN increased cell viability at low BPA concentrations but had no effect when BPA levels were high. In general, GEN attenuated the BPA-induced secretion of cytokines/chemokines but enhanced it at low BPA concentrations. In conclusion, this study showed that BPA, BPS, and BPAF were immunotoxic to macrophages: BPS was the least toxic, while BPAF was the most toxic. Further, GEN reversed suppressive effects on macrophages that resulted from exposure to high concentrations of BPA and produced synergetic effects with BPA at low concentrations.
A FIELD EXPERIMENT ON THE EFFECT OF TASK DECOMPOSITION ON THE QUALITY OF DECISIONS IN A GROUP SUPPORT ENVIRONMENT

ABSTRACT The use of Group Support Systems has been researched repeatedly using many task-type. For brainstorming tasks the process support of the system have been restricted to ensuring member anonymity and allowing the simultaneous entry of ideas. Little work has been done investigating other process improvements for idea-generating groups. In this paper is investigated the effect on idea quality and quantity of decomposing a brainstorming task with a South African setting. Using Team Expert Choice, an Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) based group support system. An experiment was conducted with two groups. It was hypothesized that task decomposition will generate more and better quality ideas. The findings show that task decomposition resulted in 40% more ideas than no decomposition; the effect on decision quality is statistically significant only when decision quality is measured as the number of good ideas. Keywords: Group Support Systems, AHP, Decision making, Brainstorming.
Is There a Mitochondrial Clock

A mitochondrial oscillator dependent on reactive oxygen species (ROS) was first described in heart cells. Available evidence now indicates that mitochondrial energetic variables oscillate autonomously as part of a network of coupled oscillators under both physiological and pathological conditions. Moreover, emerging experimental and theoretical evidence indicates that mitochondrial network oscillations exhibit a wide range of frequencies, from milliseconds to hours, instead of a dominant frequency. With metabolic stress, the frequency spectrum narrows and a dominant oscillatory frequency appears, indicating the transition from physiological to pathophysiological behavior.
Bombs or Ballots: How Do Aggrieved Ethnic Groups Determine Their Political Strategy?

Why do some groups with ethnic-based grievances in democracy choose terrorism while others select peaceful tactics such as forming a political party? To understand the decision-making process, I conduct a detailed district level analysis of ethno-nationalist terrorism in India.Using an original district level database, I find that infrastructure plays an important role in creating institutions, civil society, and democratic norms over time. Areas with a developed infrastructure are more likely to have strong institutions and democratic norms, which ultimately create trust in the ability of democratic process to address grievances. Aggrieved ethnic groups in areas with developed infrastructure are consequently more likely to form political parties. In contrast, areas with an underdeveloped infrastructure lack the same institutions and norms and are more likely to resort to violence, specifically terrorism. Historically, the terrain of the land played a substantial role in determining which areas developed a strong infrastructure in India. The British Raj essentially ignored areas with rugged terrain as they built their expansive infrastructure. This left areas isolated, underdeveloped, and with weak institutions. What is unique about the underdeveloped regions is that the same environment that prevented infrastructure and institutional development also provides an ideal environment for terrorist movements.
Topical and Transdermal Nanomedicines for Cancer Therapy

Topical and transdermal nanomedicine systems have attracted considerable attention in anticancer therapy. The administration route toward the skin can transport active drugs through the skin barrier and control their entrance into the blood circulation system. Agents delivered through this platform are capable of escaping the first pass of metabolism, which causes physiological degradation of the agent and systemic clearance. Apart from methodology to facilitate the delivery of drug transdermally, the formulation of nanomedicines to preserve the therapeutic’s property is also critical for overall clinical outcomes. This strategy improves the efficiency of encapsulated drugs by potentiating the targeting capability and tailoring the release kinetics toward specific tumors. This chapter summarizes the principles and the recent innovations in the field of transdermal nanomedicine together with opportunities and challenges in clinical translation. For the continued development of novel transdermal devices incorporating nanotechnology, a deeper understanding is required in rational nanoparticle design and their pharmacokinetics.
Do young black men who have sex with men in the deep south prefer traditional over alternative STI testing

Background High sexually transmitted infection (STI) rates in the South, especially among young black men who have sex with men (YB MSM), make STI testing imperative for public health. Purpose To identify STI testing preferences in this population to improve testing delivery and utilization. Methods YB MSM ages 16–35 in Birmingham, Alabama participated in focus groups (FG). A trained qualitative researcher coded transcripts after each FG and added questions to explore emerging themes. Results Between September 2017 and January 2018, 36 YB MSM participated in 5 focus groups. Median age was 25.5 (Interquartile range 22–30). Participants preferred STI testing at doctors’ offices conducted by physicians but they also preferred having options related to testing locations, frequency, and timing to address diverse needs. Participants did not prefer testing by non-physician staff or home self-testing. Conclusion A variety of options, including varied locations, personnel, and methods (self-collected and provider collected) are needed to make patient-preferred STI testing a reality among YB MSM in the Deep South. Further, the desire to be tested by a trusted physician highlights the need for access to primary care providers. Results suggest that newer home-based tests and self-collected tests are less preferable to YB MSM in the South, which deserves further study as these tests are rapidly integrated into clinical care.
Feedstock Energy Reporting Compilation for the Paving and Other Related Industries

Abstract Feedstock energy is the combustible energy content in a material. This article analyzes the consistency in nomenclature and reporting of feedstock energy with respect to life cycle assessm...
Red Sweet Cherry Ameliorates Inflammation in Obese Diabetic (db/db) Mice

We studied the possible protective effect of cherry intake on metabolic syndrome and diabetes complications using the obese diabetic (db/db) mouse model. Mice (4–5 week old) were fed an agar-based ...
Wind Power System Control Based on the Self-Synchronized Universal Droop Controller

This paper presents a new control scheme for the back-to-back converter in a wind energy conversion system (WECS) that is equipped with a permanent magnetic synchronous generator (PMSG). The self-synchronized universal droop controller (SUDC) is utilized for both the rotor-side converter (RSC) and the grid-side converter (GSC). The DC-link voltage is regulated by the RSC instead of the GSC. The GSC is responsible for the maximum power point tracking (MPPT) and the grid integration. The control scheme does not involve the commonly-used abc/dq transformation, the phase-locked loop (PLL), or the motor encoder usually used in the field-oriented control to measure the rotor position/angle. The control scheme does not need the generator parameters either, therefore it is simple, and it is robust to system parameters. An experimental platform is built up to test the proposed control scheme and the results have demonstrated the effectiveness and good performance of the control scheme.
Discrepancies in Financial Self-Disclosures and Open Payments Reporting Among Authors of Clinical Oncology Research Studies.

PURPOSECompany-reported payments from the Open Payments database (OP) have been compared with self-disclosed financial relationships made by physician authors. Discrepancies have been viewed as und...
Field Performance of Geocell Reinforced Recycled Asphalt Pavement Base Layer

Utilization of 100% recycled asphalt pavement (RAP) material in the base layer of road construction can provide a cost-effective and sustainable solution. However, excessive permanent deformation o...
Convalescent plasma treatment of severe COVID-19: A matched control study

Abstract Background Since December 2019, Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has become a global pandemic, causing mass morbidity and mortality. Prior studies in other respiratory infections suggest that convalescent plasma transfusion may offer benefit to some patients. Here, the outcomes of thirty-nine hospitalized patients with severe to life-threatening COVID-19 who received convalescent plasma transfusion were compared against a cohort of retrospectively matched controls. Methods Plasma recipients were selected based on supplemental oxygen needs at the time of enrollment and the time elapsed since the onset of symptoms. Recipients were transfused with convalescent plasma from donors with a SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory disease coronavirus 2) anti-spike antibody titer of ³1:320 dilution. Matched control patients were retrospectively identified within the electronic health record database. Supplemental oxygen requirements and survival were compared between plasma recipients and controls. Results Convalescent plasma recipients were more likely than control patients to remain the same or have improvements in their supplemental oxygen requirements by post-transfusion day 14, with an odds ratio of 0.86 (95% CI: 0.75∼0.98; p = 0.028). Plasma recipients also demonstrated improved survival, compared to control patients (log-rank test: p = 0.039). In a covariates-adjusted Cox model, convalescent plasma transfusion improved survival for non-intubated patients (hazard ratio 0.19 (95% CI: 0.05 ∼0.72); p = 0.015), but not for intubated patients (1.24 (0.33∼4.67); p = 0.752). Conclusions Convalescent plasma transfusion is a potentially efficacious treatment option for patients hospitalized with COVID-19; however, these data suggest that non-intubated patients may benefit more than those requiring mechanical ventilation.
MYH9-related disease

MYH9 related disease( MYH9-RD) is one of the most common types of genetic thrombocytopenia. This disorder is inheritated as an automosal dominant trait and is caused by mutations in MYH9, coding for the nonmuscle myosin ⅡA. The clinical features include sensorineural hearing loss, cataract, and progressive nephritis. It is an autosomal dominant disorder including four related syndromes, known as May-Hegglin anomaly, Sebastian syndrome, Epstein syndrome, and Fechtner syndrome. The thrombocytopenia is usually mild, and the suspected diagnosis is usually easy to make by recognizing abnormal giant platelets on blood smear. Furthermore, immunofluorescence is an important method for making a correct diagnosis. Recent studies demonstrated a correlation of genotype-phenotype with MYH9-RD. Clinical studies have shown that Eltrombopag could be effective for this disorder. Key words: Hereditary bleeding disorder; Thrombocytopenia; Nonmuscle myosin ⅡA; MYH9
In-Network Memory Access Ordering for Heterogeneous Multicore Systems

In heterogeneous multicore systems, implementing a programmer-friendly memory consistency model while maximizing memory-level parallelism is challenging. Ideally, memory accesses can be performed out of order as long as program order is not violated. But enforcing memory access order at the end-point (e.g., a core) prohibits a number of architecture optimizations and limits memory-level parallelism. In this work, we explore the opportunity of preserving memory access order inside the on-chip interconnection network. We propose a hybrid switching networks-on-chip (NoC) attached with a light-weight token ring network to guarantee global memory access order. The hybrid switching NoC that supports both packet and circuit switching serves as the underlying communication infrastructure, while the token ring network is used to preserve memory order among multiple ordering points. Our proposed design enables strong memory consistency models and deterministic program execution, with negligible performance overhead compared to an un-ordered packet switching network.
Hydrogen Compression Technology

In this chapter a brief summary of the major currently available hydrogen compression methods is presented.
Effect of surface chemistry on the uptake of lignin-derived aromatic molecules on ordered mesoporous silica

Abstract A series of functionalized ordered mesoporous silica (OMS) materials were synthesized, characterized, and tested for their ability to uptake lignin-derived molecules such as guaiacol from dilute aqueous solution. A key observation was that OMS materials functionalized with hydrophobic groups have modest guaiacol uptake (
Spectroscopic insight into carbon speciation and removal on a Cu/BEA catalyst during renewable high-octane hydrocarbon synthesis

Abstract Conversion of methanol and dimethyl ether (DME) to high-octane gasoline catalyzed by beta zeolite (BEA) provides an opportunity for the production of high-quality fuels from renewable carbon sources (e.g., gasified biomass). Recent research demonstrated that a Cu-modified BEA zeolite catalyst (Cu/BEA) offered advantages over the unmodified BEA catalyst due to multifunctional Cu species that enabled incorporation of co-fed H2, reactivation of light alkanes, and reduction of products from the aromatic hydrocarbon pool. The shift in hydrocarbon pool chemistry has the potential to influence the identity and relative composition of surface carbon species that are often linked to deactivation. A detailed understanding of these carbon species is important to develop an effective and efficient regeneration procedure that can enable the transition from fundamental catalyst development to commercial application. Here, we applied complementary ex situ and in situ characterization techniques to compare the structures of surface carbon species on post-reaction Cu/BEA and unmodified BEA catalysts. Both catalysts contained acyclic and aromatic hydrocarbons along with graphitic carbon species. However, the post-reaction Cu/BEA catalyst had a lower polycyclic aromatic content, and further, the graphitic species were more hydrogenated and defective. It was also found that the presence of Cu promoted carbon removal at lower temperatures than for unmodified BEA through activation of O2 by Cu oxide during thermal oxidation. The fundamental insight into the composition of surface carbon species enabled the design of an effective and efficient regeneration strategy for the DME homologation reaction over Cu/BEA, resulting in full recovery of the catalyst activity.
Uveitis reactivation following recombinant zoster vaccination

Abstract Purpose Describe three cases of uveitis reactivation following immunization with recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV). Observations One patient developed reactivation of previously controlled multifocal choroiditis within one week of receiving RZV, requiring treatment with systemic corticosteroids. Two patients with previously controlled anterior uveitis developed new anterior segment inflammation after RZV; both were treated with topical corticosteroids and systemic antiviral therapy. Conclusion and importance Uveitis recurrence is an infrequent but serious potential ocular side effect of recombinant zoster vaccination.
Environmental education, age, race, and socioeconomic class: An exploration of differential impacts of field trips on adolescent youth in the United States

Despite growing calls for greater inclusivity and cultural responsiveness, little is known about how environmental education (EE) may differentially affect diverse audiences. As part of a national ...
A book review on: Priceless: how I went undercover to rescue the world's stolen treasure

In his new memoir, Priceless, retired FBI agent, Robert Wittman (along with cowriter John Shiffman), recounts his many years investigating art crimes. Wittman’s story is a compelling and fascinating one, from his humble beginnings, to his experiences while leading the FBI’s Art Crime Team. Over the years, art crime has emerged as a considerable presence in the world of property theft, yet it was not always a priority at the FBI. Wittman carved out a niche for himself in this area, and in doing so, helped to create and develop the FBI’s art crime Team. His accomplishments brought accolades and recognition to this previously underserved area of crime. Art crime has been a growing topic of research within the last decade and the literature continues to expand in its scope. Increased recognition in law enforcement has resulted in the FBI’s expansion of its Art Crime Team, which currently includes thirteen special agents who are specifically trained in art and cultural property investigations (www.fbi.gov). The topic of art crime has been the topic of increasing study and scholarship over the past decade or so. Although there is certainly some distinguished academic literature on art crime, it is still an emerging area of research which will undoubtedly continue to develop. Those in academia who publish on art crime are a somewhat small but well respected group. Their work can be found not only in traditional criminology journals, but looking more broadly, is also found in anthropology, archeology and art history publications. The connection between organized crime and art crime is well represented in the literature [3, 5, 6]. Organized crime in this area should not be confused with the typical associations of organized crime, such as mafia related. Rather, it is meant in the broader sense of interconnected organized networks in which the goods are trafficked. Crime Law Soc Change (2011) 56:209–211 DOI 10.1007/s10611-011-9318-1
The state of doctoral education in public administration: developments in the field's research preparation

This article reports the results of a 1995 survey of the fifty-six NASPAA-affiliated doctoral programs of public administration and public affairs. Following on two related streams of research, we assess the degree of intellectual coherence in the field of public administration, and document what doctoral programs are doing to encourage and prepare students to do research. The evidence indicates that public administration is a fragmented, interdisciplinary field but that many doctoral programs are undertaking considerable effort to train students for research careers. In particular, they are following NASPAA guidance provided in policy on doctoral education and heeding advice provided in the literature. A lingering question is whether these innovations are making a difference in the quantity and quality of research produced by doctoral graduates.
RGS9-1 phosphorylation and Ca2+.

The duration of photoresponses in vertebrate rods and cones is controlled at the level of GTP hydrolysis by a GTPase accelerating protein (GAP) whose catalytic core is provided by RGS9-l. RGS9-1 is in turn regulated by phosphorylation on serine 475, in a reaction that is dependent on Ca2+. In living mice, the level of phosphorylation at this site is reduced by light. Thus RGS9-1 phosphorylation provides a potential mechanism by which light-regulated changes in intracellular [Ca2+] may feed back on phototransduction through effects on the lifetime of activated G protein and cGMP phosphodiesterase.
Transcriptional Suppression of Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 Gene Expression by IFN-γ and IFN-β: Critical Role of STAT-1α

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a family of zinc-dependent endopeptidases that play crucial roles in proteolytic degradation of the extracellular matrix. Aberrant expression of the 92-kDa type IV collagenase (MMP-9) is implicated in the invasion and angiogenesis process of malignant tumors and in inflammatory diseases of the CNS. We investigated the effects of IFN-gamma and IFN-beta, cytokines used for treating some cancers and multiple sclerosis, on MMP-9 expression in human astroglioma and fibrosarcoma cell lines and primary astrocytes. Our results demonstrate that IFN-gamma and IFN-beta significantly inhibit MMP-9 enzymatic activity and protein expression that is induced by PMA and the cytokine TNF-alpha. The inhibitory effects of IFN-gamma and IFN-beta on MMP-9 expression correlate with decreased steady state MMP-9 mRNA levels and suppression of MMP-9 promoter activity. IFN-gamma- and IFN-beta-mediated inhibition of MMP-9 gene expression is dependent on the transcription factor STAT-1alpha, since IFN-gamma and IFN-beta fail to suppress MMP-9 expression in STAT-1alpha-deficient primary astrocytes and human fibrosarcoma cells. Reconstitution of human STAT-1alpha successfully restores the inhibitory effects of IFN-gamma and IFN-beta on MMP-9 gene expression. Thus, these data demonstrate the critical role of STAT-1alpha in IFN-gamma and IFN-beta suppression of MMP-9 gene expression.
Twisted Tomei manifolds and Toda lattices

This paper begins with an observation that the isospectral leaves of the signed Toda lattice as well as the Toda flow itself may be constructed from the Tomei manifolds by cutting and pasting along certain chamber walls inside a polytope. It is also observed through examples that although there is some freedom in this procedure of cutting and pasting the manifold and the flow, the choices that can be made are not arbitrary. We proceed to describe a procedure that begins with an action of the Weyl group on a set of signs; it uses the Convexity Theorem in \cite{BFR:90} and combines the resulting polytope with the chosen Weyl group action to paste together a compact manifold. This manifold which is obtained carries an action of the Weyl group and a Toda lattice flow which is related to this action. This construction gives rise to a large family of compact manifolds which is parametrized by twisted sign actions of the Weyl group. For example, the trivial action gives rise to Tomei manifolds and the standard action of the Weyl group on the connected components of a split Cartan subgroup of a split semisimple real Lie group gives rise to the isospectral leaves of the signed Toda lattice. This clarifies the connection between the polytope in the Convexity Theorem and the topology of the compact smooth manifolds arising from the isospectral leaves of a Toda flow. Furthermore, this allows us to give a uniform treatment to two very different cases that have been studied extensively in the literature producing new cases to look at. Finally we describe the unstable manifolds of the Toda flow for these more general manifolds and determine which of these give rise to cycles.
Exploiting the Multi-Append-Only-Trend Property of Historical Data in Data Warehouses

Data warehouses maintain historical information to enable the discovery of trends and developments over time. Hence data items usually contain time-related attributes like the time of a sales transaction or the order and shipping date of a product. Furthermore the values of these time-related attributes have a tendency to increase over time. We refer to this as the Multi-Append-Only-Trend (MAOT) property. In this paper we formalize the notion of MAOT and show how taking advantage of this property can improve query performance considerably. We focus on range aggregate queries which are essential for summarizing large data sets. Compared to MOLAP data cubes the amount of pre-computation and hence additional storage in the proposed technique is dramatically reduced.
A remark on two-dimensional stokes flow solutions

It is shown that the solution of Laplace's equation is useful to obtain a unique Stokes stream function which is valid everywhere under limited circumstances. When the Stokes stream function fails at infinity the use of the Oseen solution is required to obtain a physically acceptable solution.
A CMOS Noise-Squeezing Amplifier

Noise squeezing occurs through phase-sensitive gain implemented by a parametric process in a nonlinear LC resonator. This process enhances the sensitivity for one quadrature component of an input signal at the expense of degrading the sensitivity for the other quadrature. We demonstrate an 8.75-GHz parametric resonant amplifier in a 0.13-μm CMOS process, which provides gain of 21 dB and 12 dB for the two quadrature components. This 9-dB gain difference results in a 2.5-dB sensitivity improvement for one quadrature, while it degrades the other quadrature sensitivity by 6.4 dB. The amplifier bandwidth is around 800 MHz and draws 36 mA from a 1.2-V supply.
Adaptive Hashing for IP Address Lookup in Computer Networks

For applications that rely on large databases as the core data structure, the need for a fast search process is essential. Hashing algorithms have widely been adopted as the search algorithm of choice for fast lookups. Hashing algorithms involve the creation of hash values from the target database entries. A hashing algorithm that transforms the database to hash values with a distribution as uniform as possible would lead to a better search performance. When a database is already value-wise uniformly distributed, any regular hashing algorithm, such as bit-extraction, group-XOR, etc., will lead to a statistically perfect hashing result. In almost all known practical applications, the target database rarely demonstrates uniformly distributed characteristic. The use of any known regular hashing algorithm can lead to a performance far less than desirable. This paper aims at designing a hashing algorithm that can deliver a better performance for all practical databases. An analytical preprocess is performed on the original database to extract critical information that would significantly benefit the design of a better hashing algorithm. The process includes sorting database hash bits to provide a priority that would facilitate the decision-making on which bits and how these bits should be combined to generate better hash values. The algorithm follows an ad hoc design that is critical to adapting to real-time situation when there exists a changing database with an irregular non-uniform distribution. The proposed technique clearly outperforms all known regular hashing algorithms by a significant margin.
Pumping a photoionization atomic inner-shell x-ray laser with x-ray free-electron laser radiation

Focusing an x-ray free electron laser (XFEL) pulse into a gas target, a plasma of transiently core excited ions can be created within a few fs, building a pathway to an inner-shell keV x-ray laser. Varying the XFEL parameters, a wide variety of pulse structures can be created with comparable peak-intensities to XFELs: isolated pulses of subfs duration, trains of pulses with increased temporal coherence, and trains of fs pulses of different wavelengths. We present self-consistent gain and amplification calculations, tailored to predict first experiments on lasing in neon pumped by the Linac Coherent Light Source at Stanford.
Development of an integrated coastal management plan for the Gulf of San Miguel and Darien Province, Panama: Lessons from the experience

Panama's first experience in integrated coastal management took the form of a pilot project in Darien Province in eastern Panama. The project, funded by the Inter-American Development Bank, was part of package of numerous development activities comprising the Program for the Sustainable Development of Darien. The project team conducted an extensive evaluation of the province's coastal resources, community organization and uses of the marine and coastal resources, and problems affecting the long-term sustainability of resources in the region. Together with broad community input, the project team developed a Coastal Management Plan for Darien that is composed of five actions plans (Sustainable Fisheries, Habitat and Resource Conservation, Coastal Environmental/Water Quality, Eco-Tourism, and Institutional Coordination). This manuscript examines the successes, challenges, and outcomes of the program.