cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Immune Reconstitution after Haploidentical Stem Cell Transplantation

With increasing efficacy and safety of the procedure in recent years, the transplantation of hematopoietic stem cells has become an important therapeutic modality for patients with a variety of malignant and nonmalignant diseases. However, the scarcity of available HLA-identical donors necessitates the search for alternative donors in many cases. Haploidentical donors offer the advantages of a high availability and motivation to donate several times if necessary. Limitations such as GvHD and resistance to engraftment across HLA-barriers have been successfully overcome by the introduction of T-cell depletion, transplantation of megadoses of stem cells and immunological conditioning regimens [1, 2, 3]. Although immune reconstitution is one of the prime factors determining the outcome of a T cell depleted, HLA-mismatched transplant, little data are known about the pattern of immune reconstitution in this particular transplant setting so far. At the University Children’s Hospital in Tubingen, we are transplanting highly purified CD34+ hematopoietic stem cells, isolated from the peripheral blood of a G-CSF mobilized parental donor. A purity of 98–99% CD34 positivity is achieved by several steps of positive selection using a MACS-device following immunomagnetic labeling [2]. 17 high-risk patients (ALL 8, AML 5, CML 3, NHL 1) with malignant diseases lacking a conventional HLA-matched donor have been included in our pilot study in which we prospectively analysed the patterns of immune reconstitution by phenotypic and functional analysis at monthly intervals after transplantation. T-cell receptor (TCR) repertoire complexity was monitored using the RT-PCR Spectratyping approach measuring the size distribution of the CDR3-regions every three months [4]. All patients received megadoses of CD34+ cells (median 21 × 106 / kg BW) which had been rigorously T-cell depleted (median 10 × 103 CD3+ cells/kg BW). The GvHD-prophylaxis consisted only of T-cell depletion, no posttransplant immunosuppression was given. None of our patients showed significant acute GvHD (≥. II°). However, one patient developed severe intestinal GvHD after repeated T-cell addbacks in an attempt to convert an increasing mixed chimerism. This patient died of multiorgan failure subsequently. Eight patients succumbed to relapse of the underlying malignant disease after a median of 125 days. One patient developed severe autoimmune hemolytic anemia and required profound immunosuppression to control the anemia. He died subsequently of an invasive aspergillosis. So far, this was the only case of an autoimmune disease in our series of haploidentical transplants. Only one patient developed a fatal infectious complication (disseminated varicella infection). Six patients are alive and well after a median of 1130 days.
Developmental thresholds and degree-day accumulations of Indianmeal moth (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) on dried fruits and nuts

Degree-days for egg to adult development were determined for a laboratory and a wild-type isolate of the Indianmeal moth, Plodia intcrpunctella (Hubner), reared on wheat bran diet, almonds, pistachios, walnuts, raisins, and prunes. To avoid problems with temperature-induced diapause and effects of diet, eggs and pupae were used to estimate developmental thresholds used in degree-day determinations. Lower developmental thresholds for eggs (14.8) and pupae (13.8) of both isolates were identical. A threshold of 14 was used for degree-day determinations for both isolates. Egg hatch on all diets was lower for the wild-type isolate, but postembryonic survival of the wild-type isolate was similar to the laboratory isolate. Survival was <12% on dried fruits, 76.5-91.7% on nuts, and 9.5.3-97.3% on wheat bran. Degree-days for the laboratory isolate for each diet was lower than those for the wild-type isolate. Degree-days for each isolate was lowest when reared on wheat bran and highest when reared on dried fruits. The determination of developmental thresholds for eggs and pupae allows the use of a single lower threshold for all models, although different degree-days will be necessary for each commodity.
Green bean extract-induced oviposition site preference in laboratory reared western tarnished plant bug (Heteroptera: Miridae)

Lygus hesperus Knight is a major pest of agricultural crops in the San Joaquin Valley of California. They have been the subject of many laboratory studies over the years and many protocols exist for their rearing. This article examines the feasibility of using an artificial egg oviposition packet instead of organic material or an artificial diet packet. When given the choice between diet packets and egg packets treated with an extract of green bean ( Phaseolus vulgaris L.), females chose egg packets significantly more often than diet packets. When given the choice between packets treated with green bean seed or green bean pod shell extract, females chose packets treated with shell extract significantly more often than those treated with seed extract. Treating egg packets with green bean extract encourages female L. hesperus to oviposit on them and produces the greatest yield of offspring.
Directing folding pathways for multi-component DNA origami nanostructures with complex topology

Molecular self-assembly has become a well-established technique to design complex nanostructures and hierarchical mesoscale assemblies. The typical approach is to design binding complementarity into nucleotide or amino acid sequences to achieve the desired final geometry. However, with an increasing interest in dynamic nanodevices, the need to design structures with motion has necessitated the development of multi-component structures. While this has been achieved through hierarchical assembly of similar structural units, here we focus on the assembly of topologically complex structures, specifically with concentric components, where post-folding assembly is not feasible. We exploit the ability to direct folding pathways to program the sequence of assembly and present a novel approach of designing the strand topology of intermediate folding states to program the topology of the final structure, in this case a DNA origami slider structure that functions much like a piston-cylinder assembly in an engine. The ability to program the sequence and control orientation and topology of multi-component DNA origami nanostructures provides a foundation for a new class of structures with internal and external moving parts and complex scaffold topology. Furthermore, this work provides critical insight to guide the design of intermediate states along a DNA origami folding pathway and to further understand the details of DNA origami self-assembly to more broadly control folding states and landscapes.
Application of Improved Noise Cancellation Algorithm in Passive Detection

To weaken the strong noise in passive detection system,multi-reference adaptive noise cancellation algorithm.By using the transmission channel diversity between target echo signal and noise,multi-reference signals are obtained through minus between the received signals of every receiving element.Simulation result shows that this algorithm can offset noise effectively,so that the weak signal detection performance is improved.
About Separating Rational \(L_{\!p}\) Inequalities for Integral Operators

Here we present \(L_{p}\), \(p>1\), integral inequalities for convex and increasing functions applied to products of ratios of functions and other important mixtures. As applications we derive a wide range of fractional inequalities of Hardy type.
Optical Response of Hybrid Plasmon–Exciton Nanomaterials in the Presence of Overlapping Resonances

We consider a hybrid plasmon–exciton system comprising a resonant molecular subsystem and three Au wires supporting a dipole mode that can be coupled to a dark mode in controllable fashion by variation of a symmetry parameter. The physics of such a system under strong coupling conditions is examined in detail. It is shown that if two wires supporting the dark mode are covered with molecular layers, the system exhibits four resonant modes for a strong coupling regime due to asymmetry and lifted degeneracy of the molecular state in this case, while upon having molecular aggregates covering the top wire with a dipolar mode, three resonant modes appear. Pump–probe simulations are performed to scrutinize the quantum dynamics and find possible ways to control plasmon–exciton materials. It is demonstrated that one can design hybrid nanomaterials with highly pronounced Fano-type resonances when excited by femtosecond lasers.
Concerns With Entertainment-Education: Zombie Pandemic Preparedness and the Unanticipated Promotion of a Weapons Culture

Entertainment-education has proved to be an engaging medium through which to explore health and social issues in populations. Given the popularity of the zombie theme in popular culture it is no su...
Recent progress in superhydrophobic coatings used for steel protection: A review

Abstract Since the discovery of the self-cleaning properties of the lotus effect, the wetting of surfaces were intensively investigated due to their potential application in many industrial sectors. The corrosion of steel is a major industrial problem and its economic and environmental consequences are widely known. The use of superhydrophobic coatings appear to be one of the promising solutions to protect steel from corrosion effects. This review provides an overview of the superhydrophobic coatings reported in literature for steel protection and their performances. First, to obtain a comprehensive perspective, superhydrophobicity that is present in nature is concisely introduced at the beginning of this review. Second, the different models used to evaluate the wettability of a rough surface and the equations governing the static contact angle are discussed and commented. Finally, the different approaches used to fabricate the artificial superhydrophobic coatings and their impact on the corrosion performance for steel are also examined.
Measured Performance of Experimental and Commercial Solar Heating Systems

Selected results of a multi-year, multi-organization program of solar heating system development based mainly on experimental and demonstration projects supported by the Office of Solar Heat Technologies of the U.S. Department of Energy are presented. The capabilities of various types of solar water heating and space heating systems are compared, the low performance of most systems in practical use is contrasted with that of well designed experimental systems, and opportunities for improving the average efficiency of solar heating are shown There is a trend toward considerably better average performance and toward higher efficiencies of the best systems in practical use. It is concluded that even without major design changes or system cost increases, there are excellent prospects for significant increases in average performance of solar heating systems.
Peirce and Legal Semiotics

Peirce, introduced here as the first godfather of semiotics, claims (like de Saussure) that signs—strung together in a manner prescribed by rules—communicate meaning.Coded texts are thus signs to decode for a reader, and the decoding touches the essence of the magic of legal language.Kevelson gave law a Peircean frame when highlighting in various publications how the entire notion of a legal system consists of interrelating communicative processes between discourse and practice, and functions almost universally as a model of dialogic thought.Peirce knew about the problems with legal interpretation, reference activities in legal discourse, causality in law and the debates on the status of facts in law.But that is certainly not enough to describe a direct, non-philosophical and jurisprudentially relevant thought pattern of Peirce on legal semiotics. In his philosophy, the semiotic background remains general although extremely relevant for law.The chapter traces developments from philosophy, signs, semiotics and meanings related to law.It shows how Peirce texts fascinate because of their links to an encompassing process of semiosis, which is relevant for lawyers.
Understanding and mitigating some limitations of Illumina© MiSeq for environmental sequencing of Fungi

ITS-amplicon metabarcode studies using the illumina MiSeq sequencing platform are the current standard tool for fungal ecology studies. Here we report on some of the particular challenges experienced while creating and using a ribosomal RNA gene (rDNA) amplicon library for an ecological study. Two significant complications were encountered. First, artificial differences in read abundances among OTUs were observed, apparently resulting from bias at two stages: PCR amplification of genomic DNA with ITS-region Illumina-sequence-adapted-primers, and during Illumina sequencing. These differential read abundances were only partially corrected by a common variance-stabilization method. Second, tag-switching (or the shifting of amplicons to incorrect sample indices) occurred at high levels in positive mock-community controls. An example of a bioinformatic method to estimate the rate of tag switching is shown, some recommendations on the use of positive controls and primer choice are given, and one approach to reducing potential false positives resulting from these technological biases is presented.
What is the machine learning

Applications of machine learning tools to problems of physical interest are often criticized for producing sensitivity at the expense of transparency. To address this concern, we explore a data planing procedure for identifying combinations of variables---aided by physical intuition---that can discriminate signal from background. Weights are introduced to smooth away the features in a given variable(s). New networks are then trained on this modified data. Observed decreases in sensitivity diagnose the variable's discriminating power. Planing also allows the investigation of the linear versus nonlinear nature of the boundaries between signal and background. We demonstrate the efficacy of this approach using a toy example, followed by an application to an idealized heavy resonance scenario at the Large Hadron Collider. By unpacking the information being utilized by these algorithms, this method puts in context what it means for a machine to learn.
Comparative Power Analysis of an Adaptive Bus Encoding Method on the MBUS Structure

This paper proposes a novel bus encoding method on MBUS in order to reduce the power consumption of system-on-chips (SoCs). The main contribution is to lower the bus activity by an average 64.55% and thus decrease the IO power consumption through reconfiguring the MBUS transmission. This method is effective because field-programmable gate array (FPGA) IOs are most likely to have very large capacitance associated with them and consequently dissipate a lot of dynamic power. Experimental result shows an average 70.96% total power reduction compared with the original MBUS implementation.
A Young Woman With Sudden Urinary Retention and Sensory Deficits

The patient was in her usual state of good health until one week prior to presentation when she developed low back pain and numbness and tingling around her abdomen and lower back. Over the next several hours the numbness spread distally to involve her legs and feet, and it became difficult to walk. The following day she developed constipation and urinary retention. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Semi-parametric graph kernel-based reconstruction

Signal reconstruction over graphs arises naturally in diverse science and engineering applications. Existing methods employ either parametric or nonparametric approaches based on graph kernels. Although the former are adequate when the signals of interest adhere to postulated models, their performance degrades rapidly under model mismatch. Non-parametric alternatives on the other hand are flexible, but not as parsimonious in capturing prior information. Targeting a hybrid “sweet spot,” the present contribution advocates an efficient semi-parametric approach capable of incorporating known signal structure without sacrificing the flexibility of the overall model. Numerical tests on synthetic as well as real data corroborate that the novel method leads to markedly improved signal reconstruction performance.
Stability of extemporaneously prepared preservative-free prochlorperazine nasal spray.

Purpose The stability of an extemporaneously prepared preservative-free prochlorperazine 5-mg/mL nasal spray was evaluated. Methods The preservative-free prochlorperazine nasal spray was prepared by adding 250 mg of prochlorperazine edisylate to 50 mL of citrate buffer in a low-density polyethylene nasal spray bottle. A stability-indicating high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method was developed and validated using the major degradant prochlorperazine sulfoxide and by performing forced-degradation studies. For chemical stability studies, 3 100-μL samples of the preservative-free prochlorperazine from 5 nasal spray bottles stored at room temperature were collected at days 0, 20, 30, 45, and 60 and were assayed in triplicate using the stability-indicating HPLC method. Microbiological testing involved antimicrobial effectiveness testing based on United States Pharmacopeia ( USP ) chapter 51 and quantitative microbiological enumeration of aerobic bacteria, yeasts, and mold based on USP chapter 61. Samples for microbiological testing were collected at days 0, 30, and 60. Results The stability-indicating HPLC method clearly identified the degradation product prochlorperazine sulfoxide without interference from prochlorperazine. All tested solutions retained over 90% of the initial prochlorperazine concentration for the 60-day study period. There were no detectable changes in color, pH, and viscosity in any sample. There was no growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold for 60 days in all samples tested. Conclusion An extemporaneously prepared preservative-free nasal spray solution of prochlorperazine edisylate 5 mg/mL was physically, chemically, and microbiologically stable for 60 days when stored at room temperature in low-density polyethylene bottles.
The Safety of Aspirin Vs. Direct Oral Anticoagulants: A Meta-Analysis of Currently Published Clinical Trials

Abstract Introduction: Several prior analyses have suggested that the use of warfarin leads to no observable difference in bleeding events when compared to aspirin. Although direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) have been shown to be consistently safer than warfarin, data comparing the safety and efficacy of DOACs vs. aspirin has been sparse until recently. To date, two large randomized trials, EINSTEIN CHOICE and AVERROES, have compared DOACs to aspirin for secondary VTE prevention and prevention of thrombotic events in patents with atrial fibrillation respectively. Although DOACs were proven more effective then aspirin for both indications, the comparative bleeding risk between the two interventions remained unclear. In order to evaluate the safety of aspirin vs. DOACs we performed a meta-analysis of patients receiving aspirin vs. full dose DOAC within the two aforementioned trials. Methods: Using data from two recently-published, phase III trials– EINSTEIN CHOICE and AVERROES– we performed a meta-analysis using a Mantel-Haenszel random-effects model. Odds Ratios (OR) were generated along with forest plots. All analysis was performed with Review Manager (version 5.3 The Nordic Cochrane Centre, The Cochrane Collaboration, 2014). Results: In total, 3854 patients were treated with a therapeutic dose DOAC (apixaban 5mg BID or rivaroxaban 20mg daily) and 3876 were treated with varied doses of aspirin (81mg [46.9%], 100mg [27.6%], 162mg [18.5%], 243mg [1.9%], 324mg [5.0%], and unknown dose [0.2%]). Our analysis detected no statistically significant difference in major bleeding events (1.27% vs. 1.07%; p=0.4) or clinically-relevant, non-major bleeding events (3.22% vs. 2.65%; p=0.14) between the two groups (Table 1). Conclusion: This analysis suggests that aspirin is not appreciably safer than full dose DOACs in terms of bleeding risk. Given the size of this analysis, if a true difference in bleeding risk does exist, it is likely small and not clinically relevant. In addition to being significantly less effective, these results contradict any notion that aspirin is a safer alternative in terms of bleeding risk. Therefore, given the superior efficacy of DOACs for secondary VTE prevention and stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation, DOACs should always be preferentially used over aspirin in these populations. Future guidelines for clinical practice should reflect the evidence that aspirin is neither safer nor more effective for either indication. Download : Download high-res image (155KB) Download : Download full-size image Figure . Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Educational Supervision: A Learning Theory Approach:

Although educational supervision is well documented in practice and supervision literature, little exists on how to put it into operation. Assessment, planning, and instruction techniques from lear...
A Network of Self Interactions

Contemporary Immunology has evolved from two basic paradigms, the Clonal Selection Theory and the Network Theory which identified clonal expansion by antigen of cells with recognition structures and the regulatory property Ig V region (and possibly TcR V region) antigenic determinants as the main aspects of a functioning, mature immune system. How B and T cells communicate and influence each other is still partially understood.
A phase I and pharmacologic study of pyrazoloacridine (NSC 366140) and carboplatin in patients with advanced cancer.

Background: Pyrazoloacridine (PZA) is thefirst of a new class of rationallysynthesized acridine derivatives to undergoclinical testing as an anticancer agent. We previously demonstrated cytotoxicsynergy between combinations of PZA andplatinum compounds. Subsequent studiesrevealed that PZA inhibits removal ofplatinum-DNA adducts in cultured A549cells. Based on these results, weundertook a phase I study of thecombination of PZA and carboplatin (CBDCA). Patients and methods: Twenty-eightpatients received 76 28-day courses (median2.5, range 1–6) of CBDCA (30-minuteinfusion) followed by PZA (3-hourinfusion), through six dose levels [PZA/CBDCA] (200/AUC 3,400/AUC 3, 400/AUC 4,400/AUC 5, 500/AUC 5, 600/AUC5 mg/m2/AUC). Pharmacokineticanalyses were performed to evaluate thedisposition of PZA. Retention ofplatinum-DNA adducts in peripheral bloodmononuclear cells of patients was alsoevaluated. Results: The most common anddose-limiting toxicity wasmyelosuppression, consisting of neutropeniaand leukopenia. Non-hematologic toxicitiesof anorexia, nausea and stomatitis weremild to moderate. In six patientsevaluated at the MTD, CBDCA did not appearto affect the pharmacokinetics of PZA. Onepatient with malignant melanoma had apartial response. Disease stabilizationfor greater than 4 courses of treatmentoccurred in 4 patients. Conclusion: The combination of PZAand CBDCA was well tolerated and may haveutility in some tumor types.
Traumatic Experiences in Childhood and Adult Substance Use in a Nonclinical Sample: The Mediating Role of Arousal/Reactivity.

The vast majority of adults in the United States experience at least one traumatic event during childhood. According to the self-medication hypothesis of substance use disorders, adult survivors of childhood trauma may cope with trauma-related symptoms via alcohol or drug use. The purpose of this study is to identify through which specific PTSD symptom clusters childhood trauma exposure are associated with adult substance use. Participants of this study (N = 627) were not recruited based on substance use or traumatic exposure. Results of this study demonstrate that arousal/reactivity partially mediates the association between childhood trauma and current substance use. Implications for treatment include recommendations for trauma-informed approaches that aim to decrease arousal/reactivity and subsequently substance use.
Endoscopic Dilation of Bariatric RNY Anastomotic Strictures: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Gastrojejunostomy anastomotic strictures are a complication of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery without an established treatment guideline. A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed to determine the safety and efficacy of endoscopic dilation in their management. PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central (1994-2017) were searched. Data was analyzed with random effects meta-analysis and mixed effects meta-regression. Twenty-one observational studies (896 patients) were included. The stricture rate for laparoscopic patients was 6% (95% CI, 5-9%). Only 38% (95% CI, 30-47%) required greater than one dilation. Symptom improvement occurred in 97% (95% CI, 94-98%). The complication rate was 4% (95% CI, 3-6%). Endoscopic dilation of GJA strictures is safe, effective, and sustaining. This study can guide endoscopists in the treatment of a common bariatric surgical complication.
School Counselor Job Satisfaction

The school counselor's job has become more demanding and complex, with work overload and stress impacting job satisfaction levels. A survey was conducted in the East Texas region to determine and m...
Energy Issues and the Retail Industry: Public Policy/Marketing Implications:

This paper describes the results of a recent study designed to measure retailers’ attitudes and policy-responses toward energy issues as they affect their stores. Specifically examined were retaile...
TRADE IN SOUTH ASIA IN THE NAME OF SUB-REGIONAL TRADE CORRIDOR

The development of the corridor for the Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, and Nepal (sub-regional) Motor Vehicle Agreement is rooted in the formation of the South Asian Growth Quadrangle (SAGQ), a collective organization established by the four South Asian nations. To meet its goal, SAGQ was tasked with improving cross-border connectivity, boosting trade among member countries, and strengthening sub-regional economic integration. The strategic location of North East India implies that the sub-regional corridor will significantly impact the development of the region. over the past 20 years, despite dedicated programs and attempts from multiple stakeholders within the SAGQ to promote development within sub-regional, not enough has happened to facilitate regional trade, transport, and the movement of goods and people across the region. Consider the existing state of aﬀairs: intraregional trade among South Asian countries accounted for only 5 percent of their trade in 2015. This low level of regional integration in South Asia is manifested in poor intraregional investment. Higher levels of integration to ensure smooth access to regional and international markets is even more important for smaller, less developed, and landlocked nations such as Nepal and Bhutan.
A case of an Infant with SARS-CoV-2 hepatitis early after liver transplantation.

We present a case of a pediatric liver transplant recipient diagnosed with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection four days after receiving a living donor liver allograft from her mother. The recipient was a 6-month-old with end-stage liver disease due to biliary atresia and failed Kasai. The infant had an uncomplicated implantation, excellent graft function and down-trending liver enzymes until developing fevers, diarrhea, and moderate respiratory distress requiring non-invasive respiratory support. SARS-CoV-2 testing (nasal swab Polymerase Chain Reaction) was positive on post-operative day (POD) 4. Liver enzymes peaked ~1000 U/L (5-fold higher than the previous day) on POD 6. Histology demonstrated a mixed picture of moderate acute hepatitis and classical elements of mild to moderate acute cellular rejection. Her hepatitis and respiratory symptoms improved coincident with completing treatment with hydroxychloroquine, reduced immunosuppression, and intravenous gamma globulin (IVIG).
Robotic Deep Rolling With Iterative Learning Motion and Force Control

Large industrial robots offer an attractive option for deep rolling in terms of cost and flexibility. These robots are typically designed for fast and precise motion, but may be commanded to perform force control by adjusting the position setpoint based on the measurements from a wrist-mounted force/torque sensor. Contact force during deep rolling may be as high as 2000 N. The force control performance is affected by robot dynamics, robot joint servo controllers, and motion-induced inertial force. In this letter, we compare three deep rolling force control strategies: position-based rolling with open-loop force control, impedance control, and gradient-based iterative learning control (ILC). Open loop force control is easy to implement but does not correct for any force deviation. Impedance control uses force feedback, but does not track well non-constant force profiles. The ILC augments the impedance control by updating the commanded motion and force profiles based on the motion and force error trajectories in the previous iteration. The update is based on the gradient of the motion and force trajectories with respect to the commanded motion and force. We show that this gradient may be generated experimentally without the need of an explicit model. This is possible because the mapping from the commanded joint motion to the actual joint motion is nearly identical for all joints in industrial robots. We have evaluated the approach on the physical testbed using an ABB robot and demonstrated the convergence of the ILC scheme. The final ILC tracking performance of a trapezoidal force profile improves by over 70% in terms of the RMS error compared with the impedance controller.
Rayleigh - Taylor Gravity Waves and Quasiperiodic Oscillation Phenomenon in X-ray Binaries

Accretion onto compact objects in X-ray binaries [black hole, neutron star (NS), white dwarf] is characterized by non-uniform flow density profiles. Such an effect of heterogeneity in presence of gravitational forces and pressure gradients exhibits Raylegh-Taylor gravity waves (RTGW). They should be seen as quasioperiodic wave oscillations (QPO). In this paper I show that the main QPO frequency, which is very close to the Keplerian frequency, is split into separate frequencies (hybrid and low branch) under the influence of the gravitational forces in the rotational frame of reference. The observed low and high QPO frequencies are an intrinsic signature of the RTGW. I elaborate the conditions for the density profile when the RTGW oscillations are stable. A comparison of the inferred QPO frequencies with QPO observations is presented. I find that hectohertz frequencies detected from NS binaries can be identified as the RTGW low branch frequencies. I also predict that an observer can see the double NS spin frequency during the NS long (super) burst events when the pressure gradients and buoyant forces are suppressed. The Coriolis force is the only force which acts in the rotational frame of reference and its presence causes perfect coherent pulsations with a frequency twice of the NS spin.
The Merchant Prince of Black Chicago: Anthony Overton and the Building of a Financial Empire

Review of: The Merchant Prince of Black Chicago: Anthony Overton and the Building of a Financial Empire, by Robert E. Weems, Jr.
Disparities in Cancer Survival Among Adolescents and Young Adults: A Population-Based Study of 88 000 Patients.

BACKGROUND Adolescents and young adults (AYA, aged 15-39 years) diagnosed with cancer comprise a growing, yet understudied, population. Few studies have examined disparities in cancer survival in underserved and diverse populations of AYA. METHODS Using population-based data from the Texas Cancer Registry, we estimated 5-year relative survival of common AYA cancers and examined disparities in survival by race and ethnicity, neighborhood poverty, urban or rural residence, and insurance type. We also used multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models to examine associations of race or ethnicity, neighborhood poverty, urban or rural residence, and insurance type with all-cause mortality. RESULTS We identified 55 316 women and 32 740 men diagnosed with invasive cancer at age 15-39 years between January 1, 1995, and December 31, 2016. There were disparities in relative survival by race and ethnicity, poverty, and insurance for many cancer types. Racial and ethnic disparities in survival for men with non-Hodgkin lymphoma (74.5% [95% confidence interval (CI) = 72.1% to 76.7%] White vs 57.0% [95% CI = 51.9% to 61.8%] Black) and acute lymphocytic leukemia (66.5% [95% CI = 61.4% to 71.0%] White vs 44.4% [95% CI = 39.9% to 48.8%] Hispanic) were striking, and disparities remained even for cancers with excellent prognosis, such as testicular cancer (96.6% [95% CI = 95.9% to 97.2%] White vs 88.7% [95% CI = 82.4% to 92.8%] Black). In adjusted analysis, being Black or Hispanic, living in high-poverty neighborhoods, and having Medicaid, other government insurance, or no insurance at diagnosis were associated with all-cause mortality in both women and men (all 2-sided P < .01). CONCLUSIONS Our study adds urgency to well-documented disparities in cancer survival in older adults by demonstrating persistent differences in relative survival and all-cause mortality in AYAs. Findings point to several areas of future research to address disparities in this unique population of cancer patients.
COVID-19 Mortality in a Pediatric Patient with Hemoglobin SC Disease and Alpha-Thalassemia Trait

As the pandemic continues to evolve, more cases of COVID-19 in pediatric patients are being detected. A 12-year-old boy with HbSC disease alpha-thalassemia trait presented to a pediatric emergency room with fever and weakness. His vital signs were notable for fever, tachypnea, and tachycardia. His physical exam was concerning for increased work of breathing. He tested positive for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) by PCR although his hemoglobin level remained near his baseline. His chest radiograph showed a retrocardiac opacity concerning for evolving acute chest syndrome. He decompensated quickly requiring invasive mechanical ventilation and exchange transfusion. He received hydroxychloroquine, broad-spectrum antibiotics, and enoxaparin for DVT prophylaxis. Despite showing clinical signs of improvement, he became acutely hypoxemic and suffered a cardiac arrest. We believe this to be an unusual case of a pediatric patient with HbSC disease and COVID-19. We outline clearly the course of illness and treatments trialed, which can prove beneficial to providers facing similar challenges as this virus continues to strike areas around the world. Although children have significantly better outcomes than adults, providers must remain vigilant while treating any patient with a hemoglobinopathy in the setting of severe COVID-19.
There is a lock for every key.

Chemoproteomics-enabled identification of the targets of a hydroxylated cholesterol metabolite, 20(S)-hydroxycholesterol, reveals it to be the first reported endogenous ligand of the sigma-2 receptor, a drug target for neurodegeneration and neuropathic pain.
Gold's Value as an Investment

For investors, gold is an asset without a yield that is attractive in times of low and negative real interest rates. Gold also has an embedded put option because investors can sell it to those who value its use as jewelry or as a productive input. This paper presents an approach for pricing gold from investors' perspective based on no-arbitrage principles. There is no need to specify investor preferences and the main input for pricing gold is a term structure model for real interest rates. The model implies that on average more than half of the value of gold is due to its role as an investment asset. When fitted to match 10-year real US Treasury rates the model can replicate the salient fluctuations in the time series of gold prices since 2007.
Toward a Sustainable Future: The Practice of Science Teacher Education for Sustainability

Since Rachel Carson’s book Silent Spring, which in 1962 exposed the hazards of the pesticide DDT and set the stage for the environmental movement, there has been a legacy of learning and understanding of how human actions influence the environment in a variety of unanticipated ways. “Many consider the book’s release to be the turning point in our understanding of the interconnections among the environment, the economy and social well-being. Since then, many milestones have marked the journey toward sustainable development.” (Sustainability Development [SD] Timeline, 2012, p. 1). Since then other disasters, some more closely linked to human causes than others have reinforced the notions of the fragility of our planet, while other authors and events have given us guidance and hope how to proceed to a more sustainable world. These include:
Abstract 15763: Does the Stop-Flow Technique Improve Cardiac Retention of Intracoronarily Delivered Cells? A Study of Cardiac Retention of C-kit Positive Human Cardiac Stem Cells (hcscs) After Intracoronary Infusion in a Porcine Model of Chronic Ischemic Cardiomyopathy

Background: Cell based therapies have emerged as promising modalities in patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy, promoting reverse LV remodeling and improvement in cardiac function. It is commonly believed that the optimal methodology for intracoronary administration of cells is to stop coronary flow during cell infusion, in order to prolong cell/vascular wall contact, enhance adhesion, and promote extravasation of the cell product into the myocardium. Occlusion of a coronary artery with a balloon involves serious risks of vascular damage and/or dissection, particularly in non-stented coronary segments such as those commonly found in patients with heart failure. It remains unknown whether the use of the stop-flow technique results in improved cell engraftment. We addressed this issue in a clinically relevant model of chronic ischemic cardiomyopathy by directly comparing retention of hCSCs after intracoronary infusion with or without coronary occlusion. Methods: Acute myocardial infarction was produced in 1...
Characterization and modeling of non-line-of-sight ultraviolet scattering communication channels

The solar blind ultraviolet (UV) spectrum provides unique opportunities for wireless communications and sensing. We present recent experimental and analytical results in non-line-of-sight UV channel characterization and modeling, including impulse response and path loss. Path loss predictions are validated with experimental measurements outdoors. The effects of multiple scattering are captured and demonstrate significant dominance in some atmospheric conditions.
The Personality Construct of Hardiness: II. Relationships with Comprehensive Tests of Personality and Psychopathology

Theory and research are suggesting that personality hardiness is a composite of interrelated attitudes of commitment, control, and challenge that facilitates the management of stressful circumstances by turning them into growth-inducing rather than debilitating experiences. The two studies reported here seek to further our understanding of the overall importance of hardiness in living. The first study determines the correlational pattern between hardiness and the various scales of the Millon Clinical Multiaxial Inventory III and the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory 2. The second study concerns the correlational pattern between hardiness and the five-factor model, as measured by the NEO Five Factor Inventory. The results of both studies suggest that both total hardiness and its components of commitment, control, and challenge express vigorous mental health.
Expression and therapeutic targeting of dopamine receptor-1 (D1R) in breast cancer

Patients with advanced breast cancer often fail to respond to treatment, creating a need to develop novel biomarkers and effective therapeutics. Dopamine (DA) is a catecholamine that binds to five G protein-coupled receptors. We discovered expression of DA type-1 receptors (D1Rs) in breast cancer, thereby identifying these receptors as novel therapeutic targets in this disease. Strong to moderate immunoreactive D1R expression was found in 30% of 751 primary breast carcinomas, and was associated with larger tumors, higher tumor grades, node metastasis and shorter patient survival. DA and D1R agonists, signaling through the cGMP/protein kinase G (PKG) pathway, suppressed cell viability, inhibited invasion and induced apoptosis in multiple breast cancer cell lines. Fenoldopam, a peripheral D1R agonist that does not penetrate the brain, dramatically suppressed tumor growth in two mouse models with D1R-expressing xenografts by increasing both necrosis and apoptosis. D1R-expressing primary tumors and metastases in mice were detected by fluorescence imaging. In conclusion, D1R overexpression is associated with advanced breast cancer and poor prognosis. Activation of the D1R/cGMP/PKG pathway induces apoptosis in vitro and causes tumor shrinkage in vivo. Fenoldopam, which is FDA (Food and Drug Administration) approved to treat renal hypertension, could be repurposed as a novel therapeutic agent for patients with D1R-expressing tumors.
Searching for kinesin's mechanical amplifier

Kinesin, a microtubule-based motor, and myosin, an actin-based motor, share a similar core structure, indicating that they arose from a common ancestor. However, kinesin lacks the long lever-arm domain that is believed to drive the myosin power stroke. Here, we present evidence that a much smaller region of ca. 10-40 amino acids serves as a mechanical element for kinesin motor proteins. These 'neck regions' are class conserved and have distinct structures in plus-end and minus-end-directed kinesin motors. Mutagenesis studies also indicate that the neck regions are involved in coupling ATP hydrolysis and energy into directional motion along the microtubule. We suggest that the kinesin necks drive motion by undergoing a conformational change in which they detach and re-dock onto the catalytic core during the ATPase cycle. Thus, kinesin and myosin have evolved unique mechanical elements that amplify small, nucleotide-dependent conformational changes that occur in their similar catalytic cores.
Describing RNA Structure by Libraries of Clustered Nucleotide Doublets

The rapidly increasing wealth of structural information on RNA and knowledge of its varying roles in biology have facilitated the study of RNA structure using computational methods. Here, we present a new method to describe RNA structure based on nucleotide doublets, where a doublet is any two nucleotides in a structure. We restrict our search to doublets that are close together in space, but not necessarily in sequence, and obtain doublet libraries of various sizes by clustering a large set of doublets taken from a data set of high-resolution RNA structures. We demonstrate that these libraries are able to both capture structural features present in RNA and fit local RNA structure with a high level of accuracy. Libraries ranging in size from ten to 100 doublets are examined, and a detailed analysis shows that a library with as few as 30 doublets is sufficient to capture the most common structural features, while larger libraries would be more appropriate for accurate modeling. We anticipate many uses for these libraries, from annotation to structure refinement and prediction.
Hemodynamic interpretation of pulmonary arterial tree images

Various imaging modalities permit direct observation of the pulmonary arterial tree within the intact lung. We have been concerned with finding a means for efficient organization of the data such that they can reveal certain aspects of the hemodynamic function of the tree. Commonly, pulmonary arterial morphometric data have been summarized by grouping the individual vessel segments according to generation or order and then averaging the dimensions within each generation or order. The most effective criteria for grouping has been a question, and some criteria are not applicable to imaging methods having limited resolution. We have considered an alternative approach in which we begin with the concept that the bifurcating, volume filling characteristics of the tree put constraints of the structure such that the assignment of orders or generations may be superfluous. The scale independent, or fractal, appearance of the tree suggests that one might consider the three vessel segments joined at a bifurcation to be the fundamental repeating morphometric unit descriptive of the tree. The analysis is based on the information in the diameters of the three vessels at each bifurcation. These diameters, D 1 the parent vessel diameter, and D 2 and D 3 , the two daughter vessel diameters are used to calculate (beta) 1 which is the harmonic mean of (beta) 1 equals log2/[log2D 1 - log(D 1 + D 2 ], where (beta) 1 is the quantitative descriptor of each bifurcation of the tree. Within the range of resolution of the imaging modality, a statistical sample of the values of (beta) 1 can provide an estimate of (beta) 1 . To put the utility of (beta) 1 in perspective, we introduce the concept of cumulative vascular volume, which is the arterial volume upstream from all of the locations within the arterial tree that have the same intravascular pressure. The distribution of intravascular pressure from arterial inlet to capillary inlet as a function of cumulative vascular volume can be expressed in terms of (beta) 1 . Thus, a sample containing a sufficiently large number of bifurcations can be used to relate the structural image data to pulmonary arterial tree hemodynamic function. Microfocal pulmonary angiographic data provide examples of the application of this concept.
Influence of benzimidazole fungicides on growth and foliar element accumulation of Agrostis palustris Huds. and Poa pratensis L.

Abstract The effect of two benzimidazole fungicides, 2‐(4‐thiazolyl) benzimidazole (thiabendazole) and methyl l‐(butylcarbamoyl)‐2‐benzimidazole carbamate (benomyl) on growth and foliar element accumulation of ‘Penncross’ and ‘Seaside’ cultiyars of. Agrostis palustris Huds. and ‘Merion’ cultivar of Poa pratensis L: was investigated ina series, of greenhouse and field plot experiments. In the greenhouse, soils.with varying concentrations of the materials were seeded. with ‘Penncross,’ and ‘Merion. In the field a 2 year old plant ing of the ‘Seaside’ cultivar (Agrostis palustris) was sprayed with thiabendazole, and benomyl formulations. Criteria employed for determining growth effectswere dry weight of foliage, dry weight of roots, and macro‐ and micro‐element accumulation by the. foliage, Dry foliar weights of both Poa and Agrostis were increased by soil amendment with benomyl and thiabendazole, With Agrostis benomyl soil amendment increased foliar P and decreased P, Ca, Mg, Mn, B, and Na. Thiabendazole am...
Acute intermittent porphyria: A diagnostic challenge

Acute intermittent porphyria is a metabolic disorder rarely seen in prepubertal children. A delay in diagnosis of acute intermittent porphyria is common because of variable and nonspecific symptoms. We report an 8-year-old boy with right hemimegalencephaly and intractable seizures, who presented with dark-colored urine, hypertension, increasing lethargy, fluctuating seizures, and poor oral intake. He subsequently developed hyponatremia secondary to syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion. His urinalysis was negative for red blood cells, and a random urine porphobilinogen level was elevated. Further biochemical and molecular testing confirmed the diagnosis of acute intermittent porphyria. His antiepileptic medications were discontinued and hemin administered, with dramatic clinical improvement. The diagnosis of acute intermittent porphyria was challenging because of his underlying neurologic condition. This case highlights the variable presentation of acute intermittent porphyria and emphasizes the importance of considering the diagnosis even in young patients with underlying neurologic conditions when they present with nonspecific neurovisceral symptoms or with unexplained neurologic deterioration.