cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Nonlinear multiplexing in optical fiber communications

The nonlinear evolution of a dispersion-managed soliton admits a novel nonlinear multiplexing scheme for optical communications. Information is coded onto the canonical parameters (chirp and width) characterizing the pulse. It is shown that in dispersion-managed fiber communication channels, there exists the possibility of a nonlinear multiplexing scheme, with no linear analog, that effectively multiplies the bit-rate throughput several-fold. Alternatively, the same bit-rate is achieved while relaxing the requirements on the pulse width, so that slower modulation speeds and narrowband in-line filters may be used without paying a penalty in the information-transfer rate. In addition, the scheme is insensitive to minor variations in the multiplexing parameters. The analysis is based on a Hamiltonian reduction of the dispersion-managed nonlinear Schrodinger equation, and is corroborated with direct numerical simulations.
Quantitation of Residual N-Methylpyrrolidone in Losoxantrone Hydrochloride by Reversed-Phase High-Performance Liquid Chromatography

A reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatographic method designed to quantitate /V-methylpyrrolidone (NMP) as a residual solvent in losoxantrone hydrochloride (DuP 941) is described. The experiments performed demonstrate that this procedure can reliably quantitate low concentrations (< 0.01 %) of NMP in losoxantrone hydrochloride. The sensitivity, linearity, and reproducibility of this method are also demonstrated. (DMF) at 50 mg/mL. Of the solvents tested, only water, DMF, NMP, and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) dissolved losoxantrone hydrochloride at concentration s sufficient to provide the required sensitivity (< 0.1%, relative to the drug substance). All three organic solvents interfered with the determination of residual NMP, whereas water was incompatible with the flame ionization detector when used as a sample solvent under these conditions. Because NMP possesses a chromophore that absorbs at low ultraviolet (UV) wavelengths, HPLC with UV detection was investigated. Methods for the HPLC analysis of NMP have previously been published. Frick (12) developed an isocratic method for deter­ mination of NMP in waste water. HPLC with radioactivity detec­ tion has been used to detect radiolabeled NMP and 2-pyrrolidone in rat plasma and urine (13,14). We believe this to be the first
Carbon sequestration: An underexploited environmental benefit of agroforestry systems

Agroforestry has importance as a carbon sequestration strategy because of carbon storage potential in its multiple plant species and soil as well as its applicability in agricultural lands and in reforestation. The potential seems to be substantial; but it has not been even adequately recognized, let alone exploited. Proper design and management of agroforestry practices can make them effective carbon sinks. As in other land-use systems, the extent of C sequestered will depend on the amounts of C in standing biomass, recalcitrant C remaining in the soil, and C sequestered in wood products. Average carbon storage by agroforestry practices has been estimated as 9, 21, 50, and 63 Mg Ch a −1 in semiarid, subhumid, humid, and temperate regions. For smallholder agroforestry systems in the tropics, potential C sequestration rates range from 1.5 to 3.5 Mg C ha −1 yr −1 . Agroforestry can also have an indirect effect on C sequestration when it helps decrease pressure on natural forests, which are the largest sink of terrestrial C. Another indirect avenue of C sequestration is through the use of agroforestry technologies for soil conservation, which could enhance C storage in trees and soils. Agroforestry systems with perennial crops may be important carbon sinks, while intensively managed agroforestry systems with annual crops are more similar to conventional agriculture. In order to exploit this vastly unrealized potential of C sequestration through agroforestry in both subsistence and commercial enterprises in the tropics and the temperate region, innovative policies, based on rigorous research results, have to be put in place.
Future potential of echocardiography in heart failure

Echocardiography represents a convenient, portable and noninvasive method to provide important anatomic and physiologic information to inform the management of heart failure patients. Traditional echo assessments include diagnostic, etiologic and prognostic data from ventricular size, geometry and performance. Newer echocardiographic techniques are receiving greater utilization, however, and promise to further enhance diagnostic abilities in heart failure. This article reviews traditional anatomic assessments, echo-based cardiac hemodynamics, 3D echocardiography, quantification of myocardial tissue mechanics and hand-carried echocardiography. These developments in echocardiography underlie future trends toward echo objectivity, improved imaging of patients with poor acoustic windows, miniaturization and simplicity in focused exams and the expanded application of old and new techniques.
Sexism and Sexual Harassment Concerns of African American Women of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church

This article is drawn from a larger research project that examined social issues identified by a select group of religiously active Black females. The research identifies sexism and sexual harassment as two primary concerns. Women proposed that before churches could appropriately address social injustices inflicted on women in society, they must first acknowledge and combat their prevalence within the church. Inclusion of women in decision-making processes in churches was proposed as an initial step toward improving the status of African American women in the community and in formulating relevant policies directed at minimizing such social injustices as sexism and sexual harassment, precursors to sexual violence.
Automatic generation of compiled simulations through program specialization

Using a program specializer, we automatically generated high-performance digital simulation algorithms from a simple interpreter-based simulator. By making simple changes in the simulator and the specializer, we generated four types of compiled simulations: the PC-set algorithm, an improvement on the PC-set algorithm, and two compiled versions of the BACKSIM algorithm. An analysis of our experiments indicate that large improvements to the PC-set method are possible, and that compiled simulation based on the pure BACKSIM algorithm should not be further investigated as the overhead of the algorithm is larger than the time it saves by pruning gate evaluations.
Identity Production in Figured Worlds: How some Mexican Americans become Chicana/o Activist Educators

Using Holland, Lachicotte, Skinner, and Cain’s (1998) theory of identity and their concept of figured worlds, this article provides an overview of how twenty-four Mexican Americans came to produce Chicana/o Activist Educator identities. The desire to raise consciousness (teach for social justice pero con ganas) and “give back to the [their] community” became a very important part of this identity. Using an ethnographic interview as well as a life history interview methodology, this article specifically focuses on the participants’ conceptual and procedural identity production in local Chicana/o activist figured worlds (usually in colleges and universities). In these local figured worlds, the participants produced a more complex process of identity production that was both conceptual and procedural. The article concludes with broad implications for urban teacher education.
OVERVIEW OF MODERN DESIGN OF EXPERIMENTS METHODS FOR COMPUTATIONAL SIMULATIONS

The intent of this paper is to provide an overview of modern design of experiments (DOE) techniques that can be applied in computational engineering design studies. The term modern refers to DOE techniques specifically designed for use with deterministic computer simulations. In addition, this term is used to contrast classical DOE techniques that were developed for laboratory and field experiments that possess random error sources. Several types of modern DOE methods are described including pseudo-Monte Carlo sampling, quasi-Monte Carlo sampling, Latin hypercube sampling, orthogonal array sampling, and Hammersley sequence sampling.
Time-dependent dielectric breakdown of a recessed channel DRAM access device

A recessed access device (RAD) used in a DRAM cell has exhibited advantages over the conventional planar access device, including retention time improvement. However, worse time-dependent dielectric breakdown (TDDB) characteristics were observed for RAD. The degraded TDDB performance is primarily attributed to thinner oxide growth in the recess.
Ecological Significance of Coaggregation among Oral Bacteria

The human oral ecosystem is an ecologist’s paradise. It is readily accessible to the investigator and contains greater than 325 species of bacteria. Within a few hours after a tooth is professionally cleaned, a succession of genera of bacteria repopulate the tooth surface. These primary colonizers are also involved in the succession of genera that accompany the progressive changes at a tooth site, when the clinical condition changes from healthy through gingivitis to the advancing stages of periodontal disease.
Additional Comments on Cost-Benefit Analysis of Water Use Restrictions

The method used to ration a project's output determines who obtains it, and therefore, the valuation that is placed on it. Hence, when we conduct cost-benefit studies, we must consider simultaneously the way in which a project's benefits are measured and the method used to ration a project's output.
Greased Wheels or Just Greased Palms: Political Corruption and Firm Value

Using an inclusive sample of U.S. firms over a nearly 30-year period, we find a negative relation between political corruption and firm value that is robust to controlling for potential endogeneity. The magnitude of this relation is attenuated by firm size, firm age, competitive product markets, and strong audit monitoring. Our results also indicate that strong corporate governance may not be value maximizing in corrupt environments and that corruption lowers firm investment efficiency, which perhaps contributes to the negative relation between corruption and value. Taken together, our results suggest that political corruption in the U.S. imposes substantial costs on shareholders.
Stranski–Krastanov Shell Growth in ZnTe/CdSe Core/Shell Nanocrystals

ZnTe/CdSe core/shell nanoparticles are synthesized in noncoordinating solvents at different temperatures. The experimental results show that CdSe shell deposition at 215 °C on spherical ZnTe core particles is analogous to Stranski-Kranstanov growth of 2D epitaxial films. The shell thickness inhomogeneity is determined by measuring the inhomogeneity in interfacial hole transfer rates to an adsorbed hole acceptor, phenothiazine. We find that the first approximately three layers of CdSe are deposited uniformly and that subsequent layers produce a rough shell surface. The origin of the shell thickness inhomogeneity is investigated. ZnTe and CdSe have very close to the same lattice constants, and the interface therefore has very little lattice strain. However, cation interdiffusion changes the radial composition profile of the ZnTe-CdSe interface, leading to a large amount of lattice strain. The extent of cation interdiffusion and hence the surface morphology can be controlled by varying the deposition tempera...
Inquiry in Action for Leadership in Turbulent Times: Exploring the Connections Between Transformative Learning and Adaptive Leadership

This article discusses the theory and practices associated with a methodology for leadership capacity development that utilizes Collaborative Developmental Action Inquiry to support adults in understanding the connections between transformative learning and adaptive leadership. Discussion is focused on transformative learning, ways of knowing, or action logics and single-, double-, and triple-loop learning.
Solar Energy Prospects

Electro optical technology is the key element for transformation of sunlight to heat, electricity, or fuels. Successful innovation, requires integration into a system designed for a particular application. The criteria for success include cost, and environmental benefit, as well as technical performance. However the absence of clear government policies adds additional uncertainty to design choices and comparison between different approaches. Despite these challenges it is sure that solar will become a dominant source of energy in the future -- when and how much cannot be predicted today.
The role of cilia in the pathogenesis of cystic kidney disease.

Purpose of reviewPrimary (immotile) cilia are specialized organelles present on most cell types. Almost all of proteins associated with a broad spectrum of human cystic kidney diseases have been localized to the region in or around the cilia. Abnormal cilia structure and function have both been repo
Epidemiological survey of a case caused by highly variant vaccine-derived poliovirus in Hubei

Objective To understand the epidemiological characteristics of a case caused by highly variant vaccine derived poliovirus in Hanchuan,Hubei province,in May 2013.Methods The case survey,virus excretion monitoring,laboratory examination and transmission risk assessment were conducted and the case was isolated and followed up.Results The isolate from the case was identified as highly variant vaccine-derived poliovirus type Ⅲ( 8nt,0.88%) by nucleotide sequencing in provincial and national polio laboratory,respectively.The case had received irregular 2 dose oral polio vaccine( OPV) immunization.Conclusion The case was finally diagnosed with non-acute flaccid paralysis( AFP) and no further transmission occurred due to strict prevention and control measures,including active search for AFP cases and supplementary immunization of OPV among the local children.
The Application of Reactive Power Compensator in 2300XP Electric Shovel

This paper gave a brief introduction to the role of reactive power compensator (RPC) in 2300XP electric shovel and its basic work principle,analyzed the existing problems of RPC in the process of use,and put forward some solutions for design and related people's reference.
Informal Learning for Possible Science Selves

A study of possible science selves as measured by a new instrument, Possible Science Selves (PSS) (Cultural Studies of Science Education, 7(4), 963–978, 2012), among high-school students is presented. Possible science selves are examined by gender, career interest, and desire to be a scientist, pre/post a unique science field-trip experience. Forty-four of n = 88 high-school participants from a small, rural public school parish in Louisiana, USA reported interest in seeking a STEM-related (science, technology, engineering, or mathematics) career. The PSS was used to examine changes in the desired, academic, feared, and participation factors for scientific selves in relation to participation in informal learning of science.
Discoidin Domain Receptors and Disease

The discoidin domain receptors have been implicated as contributing to normal developmental and pathologic conditions in humans. Mutations in the DDR genes have been described in a number of human diseases. Some of these are now being modeled in mice, which have afforded a better understanding for the cellular basis for the action of DDRs in various pathologic states. Herein, we first discuss the role(s) that DDR1 and DDR2 play in mouse development. Then we discuss pathologic conditions in humans where the action of DDRs has been associated with or correlated with pathologic and genomic analyses. Accumulated data indicate that the action of DDRs in various cell types have both cell-intrinsic roles as well as affecting the nature of the extracellular matrix produced or present in pathologic conditions.
Ultrasonic powder consolidation of Sn/In nanosolder particles and their application to low temperature Cu-Cu joining

Abstract Tin/Indium (Sn/In) nanosolder particles in the size range of 40–70 nm were successfully consolidated into nanosolder films by the ultrasonic power consolidation (UPC) method. The consolidated nanosolder film prevents the nanoparticles from oxidation, which is a common problem of nanomaterials during storage and processing, and makes the nanoparticles easier to handle. The quality of the consolidated nanosolders was examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The consolidated Sn/In nanosolder films were then used to join copper (Cu) plates at two soldering conditions (high pressure vs. low pressure). SEM and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) were used to study the intermetallic compound (IMC) formation and growth during thermal aging. The IMC layer consisted of ƞ-Cu 6 (Sn, In) 5 and no Cu 3 (Sn, In) was observed. The thickness of the IMC layer followed a linear relationship with the square root of the aging time, indicating diffusion controlled kinetics. The results indicated that pressure is critical for effective Cu-Cu joining by limiting the IMC growth. Finally, pull tests of the specimen joined by the consolidated nanosolder film under high pressure showed a comparable result with the solder joints formed by Sn/In solders reported in literature.
Care of the Surgical ICU Patient with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Pulmonary Hypertension

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive chronic disease characterized by airflow limitation that is frequently progressive and associated with respiratory impairment. As the fourth leading cause of death in the United States and Europe, COPD results in a substantial and ever increasing economic and social burden [1]. Acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) are frequently encountered in the intensive care unit (ICU). Although there is no standardized definition, AECOPD are characterized by a significant change in patient symptoms from baseline accompanied by overall increased airway resistance [2]. These exacerbations carry a significant risk to patients, with 10 % in-hospital mortality and 1-year and 2-year all-cause mortality rates of 43 % and 49 %, respectively, in patients with hypercapnic exacerbations [3]. Other studies note in-hospital mortality rates as high as 30 % with worse outcomes associated with older age, severity of respiratory and non-respiratory organ dysfunction, and hospital length of stay [4]. Given that patients transferred to the ICU with AECOPD are at high risk for complications and adverse outcomes, early diagnosis and management are critical to improve patient outcomes and survival in this population.
The West Bank Apartheid/Separation Wall: Space, Punishment and the Disruption of Social Continuity

Through the use of survey data from the West Bank, this paper explores the effects of the Apartheid/Separation Wall in the occupied territory of the West Bank on Palestinian society. How has the Wa...
Does a Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree Provide Preparation for Assuming a Magnet Program Director Role

One of the blueprints used by health care organizations for attaining and sustaining nursing excellence is the American Nurses' Credentialing Center's (ANCC) Magnet designation. The ANCC requires organizations to identify a Magnet program director (MPD), who serves as the contact and communication point through the process of application, designation, and maintenance of the credential. The MPD role is complex, has a wide variety of necessary skills and competencies, and can be challenging and overwhelming to undertake. Literature reveals no guidelines nor recommendations regarding educational preparation for assuming the role. Chief nursing officers (CNOs) support "program director" as a potential employment option for doctor of nursing practice (DNP) graduates. Given the complexity of the MPD, would DNP education provide elements that would help new MPDs prepare for the position? The purpose of this project was to determine if MPDs recommend concepts within DNP program Essentials as preparation for their roles. A mixed methods design was used, with qualitative data obtained from a focus group and quantitative, nonexperimental data obtained through a cross-sectional survey. Data were collected from current MPDs. The concepts of DNP Essentials presented in the survey were all recommended as preparation for the MPD role, making DNP education a relevant option.
Dynamics of tumor–CD4+–cytokine–host cells interactions with treatments

Abstract Mathematical models of interactions between tumor cells, CD4 + T cells, cytokines, and host cells are proposed to investigate the role of CD4 + on tumor regression. Our results suggest that host cells along with the mechanism of production of CD4 + T cells play important roles in driving tumor dynamics. Cancer cells can be eradicated if the tumor has a small growth rate and is also not competitive. Treatments by either CD4 + , cytokines, or a combination of the two are applied to study their effectiveness. It is concluded that doses of treatments along with the tumor size are critical in determining the fate of the tumor. Tumor cells can be eliminated completely if doses of treatments by cytokine are large. The treatments are in general more effective if the tumor size is smaller. Bistability is observed in all of the models with or without the treatment strategies indicating that there is a window of opportunity for clearing off the tumor cells.
Effect of elevated imipenem/cilastatin minimum inhibitory concentrations on patient outcomes in Gram-negative bloodstream infections.

Abstract Objectives Carbapenem minimum inhibitory concentration (MICs) are known to predict outcomes for patients with Gram-negative bacteraemia. However, limited data exist on how MICs influence such outcomes when organisms are classified as carbapenem-resistant. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of increasing imipenem/cilastatin MICs on mortality in patients with Gram-negative bloodstream infection (BSI). Methods Patients with an imipenem/cilastatin-resistant (MIC > 4 mg/L) monomicrobial Gram-negative BSI were eligible for inclusion in the study and were assessed for baseline characteristics, organ function, microbiological data, timing and type of therapeutic treatment, and in-hospital mortality. Results A total of 62 patients with imipenem/cilastatin-resistant bacterial isolates (MIC > 4 mg/L) were retrospectively studied. Time to event analyses found no difference between patients who received carbapenem therapy and those who did not (P = 0.10). After adjustment, patients receiving directed therapy were less likely to die (adjusted hazard ratio = 0.35, 95% confidence interval 0.15–0.83; P Conclusion This study did not demonstrate a relationship between receipt of a carbapenem and mortality in patients with carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative BSI.
Smartwatch Algorithm for Automated Detection of Atrial Fibrillation

Abstract Background The Kardia Band (KB) is a novel technology that enables patients to record a rhythm strip using an Apple Watch (Apple, Cupertino, California). The band is paired with an app providing automated detection of atrial fibrillation (AF). Objectives The purpose of this study was to examine whether the KB could accurately differentiate sinus rhythm (SR) from AF compared with physician-interpreted 12-lead electrocardiograms (ECGs) and KB recordings. Methods Consecutive patients with AF presenting for cardioversion (CV) were enrolled. Patients underwent pre-CV ECG along with a KB recording. If CV was performed, a post-CV ECG was obtained along with a KB recording. The KB interpretations were compared to physician-reviewed ECGs. The KB recordings were reviewed by blinded electrophysiologists and compared to ECG interpretations. Sensitivity, specificity, and K coefficient were measured. Results A total of 100 patients were enrolled (age 68 ± 11 years). Eight patients did not undergo CV as they were found to be in SR. There were 169 simultaneous ECG and KB recordings. Fifty-seven were noninterpretable by the KB. Compared with ECG, the KB interpreted AF with 93% sensitivity, 84% specificity, and a K coefficient of 0.77. Physician interpretation of KB recordings demonstrated 99% sensitivity, 83% specificity, and a K coefficient of 0.83. Of the 57 noninterpretable KB recordings, interpreting electrophysiologists diagnosed AF with 100% sensitivity, 80% specificity, and a K coefficient of 0.74. Among 113 cases where KB and physician readings of the same recording were interpretable, agreement was excellent (K coefficient = 0.88). Conclusions The KB algorithm for AF detection supported by physician review can accurately differentiate AF from SR. This technology can help screen patients prior to elective CV and avoid unnecessary procedures.
Parallelized incomplete poisson preconditioner in cloth simulation

Efficient cloth simulation is an important problem for interactive applications that involve virtual humans, such as computer games. A common aspect of many methods that have been developed to simulate cloth is a linear system of equations, which is commonly solved using conjugate gradient or multi-grid approaches. In this paper, we introduce to the computer gaming community a recently proposed preconditioner, the incomplete Poisson preconditioner (IPP ), for conjugate gradient solvers. We show that IPP performs as well as the current state-of-the-art preconditioners, while being much more amenable to standard thread-level parallelism. We demonstrate our results on an 8-core Mac Pro and a 32-core Emerald Rigde system.
Convergence in Distribution in Euclidean Spaces

Convergence is distribution of a sequence X n of real random variable is traditionally defined to mean convergence of distribution functions at each continuity point of the limit distribution function: $$\mathbb{P}\{ X_n \leqslant x\} \to \mathbb{P}\{ X \leqslant x\} \,\text{whenever}\,\mathbb{P}\{ X = x\} = 0$$ .
Physical Interpretation of Diagonal Energy Matrix Elements

Table 2 shows six prototypical CW’s which illustrate how bonding and antibonding interactions between atoms enter through one class of matrix elements, i.e., the Hii’s. The definitions of the various integrals of Table 2 are given below. D and A represent the two fragments, i.e., atoms, d and a represent the corresponding effective nuclei, 1 and 2 stand for the two AO’s, x1 and x2, and r and R are nucleus-electron and nucleus-nucleus distances, respectively.
Effects of anticonvulsants on K+-induced excitation and on penicillin-induced seizures.

Abstract Excitation induced in mice by intracerebral injection of KCl was antagonized by prior i.p. injection of phenytoin, chlordiazepoxide or phenobarbital, but was not significantly affected by muscimol, valproate, ethosuximide or trimethadione. In contrast, seizures induced by intracerebral injection of benzyl penicillin were antagonised by chlordiazepoxide, phenobarbital, valproate, ethosuximide and trimethadione, but not by phenytoin or muscimol. Implications with regard to mechanisms of action of the anticonvulsants and of penicillin are discussed.
Compositional programming and testing of dynamic distributed systems

A real-world distributed system is rarely implemented as a standalone monolithic system. Instead, it is composed of multiple independent interacting components that together ensure the desired system-level specification. One can scale systematic testing to large, industrial-scale implementations by decomposing the system-level testing problem into a collection of simpler component-level testing problems. This paper proposes techniques for compositional programming and testing of distributed systems with two central contributions: (1) We propose a module system based on the theory of compositional trace refinement for dynamic systems consisting of asynchronously-communicating state machines, where state machines can be dynamically created, and communication topology of the existing state machines can change at runtime; (2) We present ModP, a programming system that implements our module system to enable compositional reasoning (assume-guarantee) of distributed systems. We demonstrate the efficacy of our framework by building two practical fault-tolerant distributed systems, a transaction-commit service and a replicated hash-table. ModP helps implement these systems modularly and validate them via compositional testing. We empirically demonstrate that the abstraction-based compositional reasoning approach helps amplify the coverage during testing and scale it to real-world distributed systems. The distributed services built using ModP achieve performance comparable to open-source equivalents.
Mechanisms of leukemic transformation in congenital neutropenia.

Purpose of review The development of a myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) or acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in patients with congenital neutropenia is now the major cause of mortality. Treatment options are limited and there are no effective prevention strategies. This review focuses on mechanisms of leukemic transformation in severe congenital neutropenia (SCN) and Shwachman-Diamond syndrome (SDS), the two most common types of congenital neutropenia. Recent findings AML/MDS that develops in the setting of congenital neutropenia has distinct molecular features. Clonal hematopoiesis because of TP53 mutations is seen in nearly 50% of patients with SDS, but is not seen in patients with SCN. Accordingly, there is a very high frequency of TP53 mutations in AML/MDS arising in the setting of SDS but not SCN. The rate of mutation accumulation in hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) from patients with congenital neutropenia is not increased. Summary Both HSC cell-intrinsic and noncell-intrinsic changes contribute to the development of clonal hematopoiesis in congenital neutropenia and likely accounts for the high rate of leukemic transformation. In SCN, the persistently high levels of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor drive expansion of HSCs carrying truncation mutations of CSF3R. In SDS, impaired ribosome biogenesis induces p53-mediated growth inhibition and drives expansion of HSCs carrying TP53 mutations.
Osteogenic ability of rat bone marrow concentrate is at least as efficacious as mesenchymal stem cells in vitro.

Cell therapy using bone marrow concentrate (BMC) or purified and expanded mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has been shown to have a promising osteogenic capacity. However, few studies have directly compared their relative osteogenic ability. The aim of this study was to compare the osteogenic ability of BMC isolated by density gradient centrifugation with bone marrow-derived MSCs in vitro using the cells of 3-month-old Sprague-Dawley rats. The isolated cells were seeded onto 24-well plates (1 × 105 cells/well) and cultured in control growth media, osteogenic media with dexamethasone, or media without dexamethasone (which simulated the in vivo tissue environment). Alkaline phosphatase activity at week 2, osteocalcin using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction at week 4, and Alizarin red staining at week 4 were evaluated. In the osteogenic media with dexamethasone, BMC showed equivalent (osteocalcin) or even greater (Alizarin red staining) osteogenic ability compared to MSCs, suggesting that cross-talk among various cells in the BMC leads to greater osteogenesis. Furthermore, in the osteogenic media without dexamethasone, BMC showed equivalent (osteocalcin) or a trend for greater (Alizarin red staining) bone formation than MSCs alone. Our results suggest that BMC has at least comparable bone regeneration potential to MSCs. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 107B:2500-2506, 2019.
Evaluating improvements in cardiac dosimetry in breast radiotherapy and comparison of cardiac sparing techniques

Data from Darby et al. demonstrated that cardiac dose in patients undergoing breast radiation therapy is associated with cardiac events. Cardiac dose is primarily dependent on treatment laterality and treatment fields. More recently, techniques such deep inspiratory breath hold (DIBH) and prone positioning have been used as cardiac sparing techniques. The purpose of this study is to assess changes in cardiac dosimetry with cardiac sparing techniques. This retrospective study included breast cancer patients treated from 2010 to 2018 at a single institution. Mean heart dose (MHD) was analyzed with respect to treatment era, laterality, cardiac sparing technique, and treatment fields, including regional nodal irradiation (RNI) and internal mammary nodal irradiation (IMNI). Seven hundred sixty-five patients were included in this study. Average MHD was 1.87 Gy for left-sided cases and 0.71 Gy for right-sided cases (p < 0.0001). For left-sided cases, the average MHD without RNI, RNI without IMNI, and RNI with IMNI was 1.40 Gy, 2.01 Gy, and 3.48 Gy respectively. For left-sided cases without RNI, the average MHD decreased from 1.61 to 1.22 Gy using DIBH (p < 0.0001), and to 1.02 Gy with prone positioning (p < 0.0001). There was no difference in MHD between DIBH and prone techniques (p = 0.44). For left-sided cases with RNI, DIBH reduced the average MHD from 2.4 to 2.1 Gy (p = 0.04). Following the 2013 publication of Darby et al., the average MHD significantly decreased for left-sided RT cases (2.02 vs. 1.83 Gy, p = 0.03) due to increased institutional adoption of cardiac-sparing techniques. Cardiac doses were lower following the 2013 publication of Darby et al. due to greater use of cardiac sparing techniques. Overall, the average MHD was < 1 Gy and < 2 Gy for right and left breast cancers, respectively, with lower doses achieved using DIBH and prone positioning as cardiac sparing techniques.
Methodological Issues in the Study of Sexuality

Social scientific research on sexuality has grown enormously in recent decades primarily driven by demographic and health concerns. Focusing on the problems of sample-based surveys, the methodological challenges related to sampling (generalizability) and interviewing (measurement error) are discussed. The design of sex research must begin with the clear conceptualization and operationalization of sexuality. Gaining participation by selected participants and minimizing bias and error in response through the formulation of questions and maximizing privacy of response are emphasized.
Regulation of immunity to the azobenzenearsonate hapten.

Publisher Summary This chapter reviews structural, genetic, and cellular data evaluating the immunological responses to the hapten, azobenzenearsonate, coupled to proteins or cells. The idiotype utilized in the studies reviewed here is that associated with antibodies to the azobenzenearsonate (ABA) hapten in strain A mice. The system is useful because all mice of the A or AL/N strain respond to immunization with KLH-ABA by producing antibodies bearing a major cross-reactive diotype (CRI); in general between 20 and 70% of the anti-ABA antibody population carries the idiotype. In addition to KLH, several protein carriers, when conjugated to ABA and inoculated into strain A mice, induce anti-ABA antibodies with a high content of the CRI. These include ovalbumin, edestin, and p-lactoglobulin. The structure of the protein, at the site to which the ABA is conjugated, nevertheless appears to influence the induction of the idiotype. The administration of rabbit anti-Id antibodies to A/J mice, prior to immunization with KLH-ABA, has little effect on the total anti-ABA response, but can completely suppress the appearance of the CRI. If immunization is started immediately after the administration of anti-Id, say within 2 weeks, the re-emergence of the CRI upon subsequent immunization has never been observed. It might be envisioned that CRI VH genes are present in many mouse strains, but may be utilized to build receptors with different ligand specificities or regulated in some other fashion. Alternatively, BALB/c mice may lack such V genes but nevertheless have T cells with anti-idiotypic receptors.
Quasielliptic, Quasihyperbolic, and Quasi-Euclidean Geometries

Since the Euclidean space R n and pseudo-Euclidean space R l n can be defined as the projective space P n with a distinguished hyperplane in which the absolute hyperquadrics of the spaces S n-1 or S l n-1 are given, there are spaces corresponding them by the duality principle of P n . These dual spaces are called co-Euclidean, respectively copseudo-Euclidean, spaces and are denoted by R n* , respectively R l n* .
Violence and Abuse in Intimate Partner Relationships: Battered Women and Their Batterers

The situation of women abused by a male partner, sometimes labeled as an IPV survivor is explored in this chapter. This abuse can take many forms including physical and sexual violence, as well as threats of violence and psychological or emotional abuse. A brief history of how the research on battered women has developed is followed by a summary of research findings about how these relationships develop and the typical patterns seen once the violence is well established. Motivations of battering men include aggressive personalities as well as responses to stress. The battered woman responds to the increasing levels of violence and abuse in many ways. She has physical injuries and illnesses as well as emotional trauma often associated with PTSD. She is often depressed, and may feel hopeless about her situation. She is likely to take action to protect herself or to try to prevent future violence. She may try to leave but often returns at least once before finally leaving for good. She seeks help from family and friends as well as more formal help givers, but may not be given the help she needs. She may turn to the police or other legal assistance as well. A number of case histories from our files are included to demonstrate some of the findings from the research.
Probative Value of the D-Dimer Assay for Diagnosis of Deep Venous Thrombosis in the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Syndrome.

OBJECTIVES: To describe the predictive utility of the D-dimer assay among patients with the coronavirus disease 2019 syndrome for unprovoked lower extremity deep venous thrombosis. DESIGN: Prospective observational study with retrospective data analysis. SETTING: Academic medical center surgical ICU. PATIENTS: Seventy-two intubated patients with critical illness from coronavirus disease 2019. INTERVENTIONS: Therapeutic anticoagulation after imaging diagnosis of the first three deep venous thrombosis cases was confirmed; therapeutic anticoagulation as prophylaxis thereafter to all subsequent ICU admissions. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Seventy-two patients with severe coronavirus disease 2019 were screened for deep venous thrombosis after ICU admission with 102 duplex ultrasound examinations, with 12 cases (16.7%) of lower extremity deep venous thrombosis identified. There were no differences between groups with respect to age, renal function, or biomarkers except for D-dimer (median, 12,858 ng/mL [interquartile range, 3,176-30,770 ng/mL] for lower extremity deep venous thrombosis vs 2,087 ng/mL [interquartile range, 638-3,735 ng/mL] for no evidence of deep venous thrombosis; p < 0.0001). Clinical screening tools (Wells score and Dutch Primary Care Rule) had no utility. The C-statistic for D-dimer concentration was 0.874 ± 0.065. At the model-predicted cutoff value of 3,000 ng/mL, sensitivity was 100%, specificity was 51.1%, positive predictive value was 21.8%, and negative predictive value was 100%. CONCLUSIONS: Lower extremity deep venous thrombosis is prevalent in coronavirus disease 2019 disease and can be present on ICU admission. Screening has been recommended in the context of the pro-inflammatory, hypercoagulable background milieu. D-dimer concentrations are elevated in nearly all coronavirus disease 2019 patients, and the test appears reliable for screening for lower extremity deep venous thrombosis at or above a concentration of 3,000 ng/mL (more than 13-fold above the normal range). Full anticoagulation is indicated if the diagnosis is confirmed, and therapeutic anticoagulation should be considered for prophylaxis, as all coronavirus disease 2019 patients are at increased risk.
What Does Research Suggest About the Teaching and Learning of Introductory Statistics at the College Level? A Review of the Literature

Since the first studies on the teaching and learning of statistics appeared in the research literature, the scholarship in this area has grown dramatically. Given the diversity of disciplines, meth...
Delivery of recombinant SARS-CoV-2 envelope protein into human cells

SARS-CoV-2 envelope protein (S2-E) is a conserved membrane protein that is essential to coronavirus assembly and budding. Here, we describe the recombinant expression and purification of S2-E into amphipol-class amphipathic polymer solutions. The physical properties of amphipols underpin their ability to solubilize and stabilize membrane proteins without disrupting membranes. Amphipol delivery of S2-E to pre-formed planar bilayers results in spontaneous membrane integration and formation of viroporin ion channels. Amphipol delivery of the S2-E protein to human cells results in membrane integration followed by retrograde trafficking to a location adjacent to the endoplasmic reticulum-to-Golgi intermediate compartment (ERGIC) and the Golgi, which are the sites of coronavirus replication. Delivery of S2-E to cells enables both chemical biological approaches for future studies of SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis and development of "Trojan Horse" anti-viral therapies. This work also establishes a paradigm for amphipol-mediated delivery of membrane proteins to cells.
“Post Mastectomy Pain Syndrome: A Systematic Review of Prevention Modalities”

SUMMARY Background Post-mastectomy pain syndrome (PMPS) is a surgical complication of breast surgery characterized by chronic neuropathic pain. The development of PMPS is multifactorial and research on its prevention is limited. The objective of this systematic review is to synthesize the existing evidence on interventions for lowering the incidence of persistent neuropathic pain after breast surgery. Methods Using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, we performed a comprehensive search of the electronic databases of MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and ClinicalTrials.gov using a combination of database-specific controlled vocabulary and keyword searches. Two reviewers independently screened all unique records. Publications on chronic (>3-month duration) pain after breast cancer-related surgery were included. Studies were classified by modality. Results Our literature search yielded 7092 articles after deduplication. We identified 45 studies that met final inclusion criteria for analysis, including 37 randomized-controlled trials. These studies revealed seven major intervention modalities for prevention of PMPS: physical therapy, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, oral medications, surgical intervention, anesthesia, nerve blocks, and topical medication therapy. Conclusion High-quality data on preventative techniques for PMPS are required to inform decisions for breast cancer survivors. We present a comprehensive assessment of the modalities available that can help guide breast and reconstructive surgeons employ effective strategies to lower the incidence and severity of PMPS. Our review supports the use of multimodal care involving both a peripherally targeted treatment and centrally acting medication to prevent the development of PMPS.
Complicity in the Holocaust: Churches and Universities in Nazi Germany

In one of the darker aspects of Nazi Germany, churches and universities - generally respected institutions - grew to accept and support Nazi ideology. Robert P. Ericksen explains how an advanced, highly educated, Christian nation could commit the crimes of the Holocaust. This book describes how Germany's intellectual and spiritual leaders enthusiastically partnered with Hitler's regime, thus becoming active participants in the persecution of Jews, and ultimately, in the Holocaust. Ericksen also examines Germany's deeply flawed yet successful postwar policy of denazification in these institutions. Complicity in the Holocaust argues that enthusiasm for Hitler within churches and universities effectively gave Germans permission to participate in the Nazi regime.
American Fear: The Causes and Consequences of High Anxiety

Part 1: Establishing the Cause for Fear Excess 1. Introducing Fear 2. The Distinctiveness of American Fear Part 2: Causes and Contexts 3. Searching for Causes 4. The Roots of American Fear: Traditions 5. From Science Fiction to Real Death: New Contexts for Fear Part 3: The Decisive Changes: Redefining Fear and Risk in Life and in Media 6. Fearing Fear: A New Socialization 7. New Approaches to Risk: Lawyers and Bicycle Helmets 8. Self-Scaring and Advertising: The Commerce Factor Part 4: The Exhaustion of War 9. At Your Own Risk 10. A Deluge of Crises: Foreign Fears in the Past Century Part 5: Consequences and Remedies 11. Conclusion: The Lessons of American Fear
Erythritol Metabolism by Propionibacterium pentosaceum THE OVER-ALL REACTION SEQUENCE

Abstract Randomly labeled erythritol-14C has been synthesized and incubated with fluoride-poisoned suspensions of dried cells of Propionibacterium pentosaceum. Therefrom labeled glycerol-3-P, glyceric acid-3-P, erythritol-1-P, ribose-5-P, xylulose-5-P, glucose-6-P, fructose-6-P, mannose-6-P, fructose-1,6-di-P, and sedoheptulose-7-P were isolated. Erythritol-14C-1-P accumulated more rapidly than did the other phosphates. Even under conditions in which its dephosphorylation is inhibited it was metabolized to the same products as was erythritol-14C. Also, in short term experiments the addition of unlabeled l-erythritol-1-P to cell preparations actively metabolizing erythritol-14C reduced the amount of label normally found as glyceric acid-3-P. This supports the view that in P. pentosaceum erythritol metabolism proceeds via a series of phosphorylated intermediates, of which l-erythritol-1-P is the primary member. l-Erythritol-1-P can serve as hydrogen donor for the reduction of 2,6-dichloroindophenol in cell-free extracts. Although the product of the oxidation was not isolated, indirect evidence suggests that it is l-erythrulose-1-P and that this compound is the next intermediate in the erythritol fermentation. Labeling dilution experiments indicated that d-erythrose-4-P is not a direct intermediate in the sequence. The formation of labeled formaldehyde in the reaction mixtures lends support to the view that l-erythrulose-1-P, formed from l-erythritol-1-P, undergoes cleavage between the C3 and C4 positions to yield formaldehyde and dihydroxyacetone-P. This cleavage, combined with reactions known to occur in the propionic acid bacteria, provides a source of the labeled C3, C5, C6, and C7 sugar phosphates accumulating in the cell suspensions and an explanation for the substantial quantities of formic acid produced in the fermentation of erythritol.
Breast MRI as a screening tool: The appropriate role

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can detect breast cancer that is occult on mammography or ultrasound. However, although the high sensitivity of this imaging modality is desirable, its lower specificity, higher cost, variable technique and interpretation among institutions, exclusion criteria, and unproven effect on survival rate make it a less desirable screening test for the general population. Several studies have shown that using more than one imaging tool, such as MRI and mammography, increases cancer yield in high-risk patients, such as those with inherited BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations. Recent studies show improved specificity of MRI, likely related to advances in technique and the development of interpretive guidelines.