cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Review of past, present, and future plasma models for electrothermal plasma discharge simulation

Electrothermal (ET) plasma discharges have captured the interest of researchers due to their wide range of applicability. They have been investigated for their application to solid propellant ignition, electric propulsion, high heat flux experiments, and fusion fuel pellet injection. ET plasma discharges involve the passage of high currents (order of tens of kA) through narrow channels (usually millimeters in diameter and centimeters in length). The plasma arc that forms inside the discharge radiates heat to the channel's walls and ablation is induced. The partially ionized plasma that results is then ejected into an exit chamber.
Coupling of capillary-channeled polymer (C-CP) fibers for reversed phase liquid chromatography and ESI-MS for the determination of proteins in a urine matrix

Electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) analysis provides a great deal of analytical information as a detection mode when coupled with liquid chromatography (LC) and capillary electrophoresis (CE) separations of proteins. However, limitations to low flow rates ( 50 mm s−1), while also using volume flow rates compatible with standard ESI-MS, smaller column diameters are evaluated with the intension to match the high chromatographic throughput demonstrated through UV-Vis absorbance detection with the high information fidelity of the MS detection. Mixtures of ribonuclease A, cytochrome c, myoglobin and lysozyme were prepared in phosphate buffered saline (PBS) and urine matrices. The efficiency of the matrix removal is reflected in the near-identical qualitative and quantitative responses in both cases. It is felt that C-CP microbore columns can provide the high throughput and solute recoveries desired in top-down proteomics applications.
SAT0248 B Cell Characterization in Systemic Sclerosis: CD19 Correlates Inversely with Disease Activity and Plasmablasts Directly with Diffuse Disease and Lung Involvement

Background B cells play an important role in Systemic Sclerosis (SSc). Objectives To determine the phenotypic characteristics of blood B cell subsets in patients with SSc and their possible association with organ involvement and disease activity. Methods 100 SSc patients (83.0% females; mean age 56.5±13.9 years; 49 (49.0%) with diffuse skin involvement-dcSSc) and 50 age and sex matched healthy controls (HC) were studied. Clinical, immunological and inflammatory characteristics were assessed for all the SSc patients. Peripheral blood samples were analyzed by flow cytometry for the distribution of circulating B cell subpopulations by staining with surface markers CD45, CD19, CD38, CD27 and IgD (1). For each patient at study entry, disease activity and severity were evaluated (2,3). Patients with an activity score ≥3.0 were considered to have an active disease. Results The distribution of circulating CD19+ cells of SSc patients and healthy controls was comparable. Considering the two main phenotypes of the disease, the percentage of CD19+ cells was lower in patients with dSSc versus HC (8.0±4.8%vsHC 10.6±3.3%, p=0.01), as well as versus patients with limited skin disease (lSSc) (11.3±5.3%, p=0.01). The percentage of CD19 cells inversely correlated with activity index (R=-0.36, p=0.001) and patients with active disease showed lower percentage of CD19 (8.1±4.2%) compared with patients with inactive disease (11.6±5.9%, p=0.001). ROC curve analysis showed a CD19 cut off of 5.5% as the one that identified patients with active disease (AUC=0.31, p=0.006). Patients with CD19 higher than 5.5% more frequently presented a diffuse disease (p=0.02) and a restrictive lung involvement (p=0.001). The analysis of B cell subsets showed a lower percentage of pre-switched memory B cells (IgD+CD27+: 7.9±8.3p 79% (2.9±3.9%, p=0.01). Conclusions Systemic sclerosis patients show an immune deregulation of B cell subset phenotypes in the peripheral blood. The difference in the percentage of CD19 population in the different subsets of the disease and when the disease is active suggests that the CD19 count may be a potential simple biomarker of the activity. Plasmablasts represent crucial biomarkers of dSSc with lung involvement. References Tolusso B et al; Clin Immunol. 2009. Medsger TA et al; Clin Exp Rheumatol 2003. Valentini G et al; Clin Exp Rheumatol 2003. Disclosure of Interest None declared
Non-Myeloablative Allogeneic Transplantation (NMT) with T-Cell Replete Graft for Relapsed Chemosensitive Follicular Lymphoma (FL): Donor Lymphocyte Infusion (DLI) To Convert Stable Mixed Chimerism to Full Donor Chimerism Is Not Necessary in the Absence of Disease Progression.

DLI is commonly provided for mixed chimerism post NMT, even in the absence of measurable disease. This is with a high risk for graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) and a major cause of mortality and morbidity after NMT. We hypothesized that this practice may not be routinely needed in pts with indolent diseases, such as FL, and who continue to have stable mixed chimera (SMC) after NMT. We defined SMC as presence 50% to 99% donor cells by PCR analysis, and without any significant decrease of > 20% on two consecutive analysis. We treated prospectively 47 pts with relapsed FL with a NMT after conditioning with fludarabine, cyclophosphamide and high-dose rituximab as previously described (Blood89:3595, 2001). ATG was added for 2 pts receiving unrelated transplants. Tacrolimus and methotrexate were used for GVHD prophylaxis. All pts received a non-manipulated graft, from peripheral blood (45 pts) or marrow (2 unrelated donors). At the time the first analysis was undertaken post NMT (median 30 days), 13 of 18 pts (72%) in clinical complete remission (CR) and 24 of 29 pts (83%) who had evidence of active disease at study entry had mixed chimera ( P = 0.2). The % of donor cells were 93% and 75%, respectively. When the subsequent PCR analysis to assess engraftment was undertaken (median time, 89 days post NMT), median % donor cells were 100% and 95%, respectively, for the pts who were in CR or had active disease at study entry. All pts achieved CR post NST. Median time to achieve CR for pts who had active disease at study entry was 5.5 months after transplant. Twelve pts in CR continue to have SMC at the time of their last PCR analysis, undertaken at a median of 12 months (range, 6 to 55 months) post NMT. Nineteen pts were tested for the amplification of bcl-2 rearrangement from the marrow by PCR. They all had evidence of clonal disease prior study entry. All converted to PCR-negativity. Sixteen of these 19 pts had mixed chimera when they were first tested to be PCR (−) at a median time of 3 mos (range, 1–6 months) post NMT. At a median time follow-up time of 34 months, overall survival and disease-free survival of all 47 pts at 3-year were 88 and 85%, respectively. Only one relapse occurred. This occurred in a pt who had 60% donor at 3 months post NMT; it then decreased to 42% at 9 months. This was followed by graft failure and relapse. DLI was provided to only one pt with decreasing chimerism. This resulted to conversion to full donor after the infusion of to 1 x 10 5 CD3+ cells/kg, from the HLA-identical sibling donor. The incidence of acute grade II–IV and chronic (extensive and limited) GVHD in the study was 17% and 51%, respectively. These data suggest that DLI may not be needed for SMC after non-T cell depleted NMT for pts with FL who do not have evidence of progression. This strategy resulted in lower than expected acute and chronic GVHD and improved survival.
Dynamic State Aware Source Coding for Networked Control in Cyber-Physical Systems

The paper studies the source coding (quantization) for the feedback of discrete-time and continuous-state cyber-physical systems (CPSs). It is formulated as a sequential coding optimization problem. The goal is to find a deterministic policy, as a series of mappings from the historical state information to the quantization strategy for the current feedback state. In particular, an optimization problem is formulated and then solved by the Bellman's Equation in dynamic programming (DP). A more practical solution is proposed by leveraging the approximate dynamic programming (ADP). The performance of the proposed strategy is examined for both scalar and vector dynamic systems, which shows that the designed policy can significantly outperform constant quantization strategies in the CPSs.
Medical Versus Interventional Treatment of Intra-Abdominal Abscess in Patients With Crohn Disease

Background: Few studies exist to guide the treatment approach to intra-abdominal abscesses in Crohn disease, which can include antimicrobials alone or in conjunction with percutaneous drainage or surgery. The primary aim of this study is to review outcomes from different treatment approaches to intra-abdominal abscess in Crohn disease. Methods: Medical records were reviewed for patients admitted to the University of Michigan health care system with Crohn disease and intra-abdominal abscess over a 4-year period. Outcomes were compared among medical and interventional approaches. The χ2 test was used to test for statistical significance. Results: Of the 33 patients included, 13 were in the medical group and 20 were in the interventional group. Abscess recurrence/nonresolution occurred in 31% of patients in the medical group and 25% of patients in the interventional group ( P = .7). Conclusions: In this study, there was no significant difference in outcome between medical and interventional therapy for intra-abdominal abscess in Crohn disease.
Trends in synchronous invasive ductal carcinomas of the breast: A SEER database analysis.

e13081Background: Synchronous breast cancers are uncommon and account for around 2% of all breast cancer diagnosis. Lobular histology is considered a risk factor for synchronous breast cancers. We sought to study the trends in synchronous breast cancer of ductal histology and influence of age by interrogating the SEER database. Methods: The SEER Research data 1973-2013 was interrogated for synchronous infiltrating ductal carcinoma diagnosis (2 diagnosis within 6 months of each other). Overall survival (OS), the primary endpoint, was defined as the time (in months) from diagnosis to death from any cause. Univariate proportional hazards modeling results were used to assess the effect of age, race and stage on overall survival. All associations were considered statistically significant at an alpha error 65 years. 60% were 65 years or younger. 85% were Caucasians, ...
The Core and Balance Model of Family Leisure Functioning: A Systematic Review

ABSTRACTIn the past 15 years, the Core and Balance Model of Family Leisure Functioning has emerged as a focus in family leisure research. This body of work has demonstrated that family leisure involvement is consistently a significant predictor of elements of family well-being from multiple perspectives in the family, and among a variety of family types. A closer examination of this work reveals a more complex interrelationship between family leisure involvement and well-being and calls for further refinement and testing of the model. A systematic review of this body of work was conducted with the goals of offering a summary of findings, a revised graphic of the model, strengths, limitations, and recommendations for future work. Nineteen peer-reviewed journal articles, nine research abstracts, and one dissertation were reviewed.
Advances in Survey Methods for the Developing World

Political scientists are fielding more and more surveys in the developing world. Yet, most survey research methodology derives from experiences in developed countries. Researchers working in the developing world often confront very different challenges to collecting high-quality data. Census data may be unreliable or outdated, enumerators may shirk, political topics may be sensitive, and respondents may be unaccustomed to and uncomfortable with an interview format. In this article, we review both published methodological research and the best practices of scholars based on an original expert survey of survey researchers. We characterize the state of the field and provide insights about the range of available options for implementing surveys in the developing world. We examine and assess innovations across many aspects of survey implementation, including sampling, enumeration, data collection, ethical considerations, and reporting. We also offer suggestions for future methodological inquiry and for greater...
Bizarreness Effects of Imagery on Memory of Preschool Children

Whether or not the bizarreness of an image improves recall is an issue unresolved in the experimental literature. It is most likely that researchers have found conflicting results because of the diverse methodologies employed when studying bizarre imagery. Perhaps the most notable problem in these diverse methodologies is the manner in which the images to be studied are presented to the subject. As an example, some studies use verbal instructions to create their images (Delin, 1968), while other researchers use linedrawn pictures to convey a condition to the subject (Webber and Marshall, 1978). The problem of using various techniques to create the images is not, however, the only difficulty in comparing the results of one study to another. Differences in coding and retention intervals, as well as differences in the operational definitions of bizarreness, contributes to the general problem in comparing results. As a further complication, no systematic control of intraand inter-subject variables has been evidenced.
Abstract 5146: Administration of Parabacteroides distasonis in the attenuation of colorectal tumorigenesis in a carcinogenic murine model of colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second leading cause of related deaths in the United States. Interindividual differences in genetic background result in a complex and dynamic system between the gut microbiome and variable phenotypic response to diet as it relates to CRC risk. Previous research from our laboratory investigated CRC susceptibility in an azoxymethane (AOM) murine model using FVB/NJ (FVB) and C57Bl/6J (B6) mice fed a ketogenic (high fat, no carbohydrate) American (high fat, high carbohydrate) or standard (moderate fat, moderate carbohydrate) mouse chow. Tumor multiplicity was dependent on both strain and diet with a four-fold increase reported in FVB mice fed ketogenic diet relative to those fed standard chow. This response was not observed in FVB mice fed the American diet or in B6 mice on any of the three diets. A subsequent study that investigated the physiological response to diet in multiple genetic backgrounds revealed a decrease in the abundance of the bacterial species Parabacteroides distasonis in FVB mice fed a ketogenic diet. This established an emphasis on the interaction between variable response to diet, gut microbiome and further implications to gut health. To further investigate this relationship in FVB mice we are using an AOM-induced carcinogenic model on FVB mice fed a ketogenic diet supplemented with a biweekly gavage of P. distasonis. Upon necropsy, tumor load of mice receiving the experimental gavage will be compared to the control mice. Droplet digital PCR will be used to quantify the absolute abundance of P. distasonis in fecal samples at several time points before and after the initiation of diet and administration of AOM. Ultimately, we aim to determine the relationship between P. distasonis and CRC tumorigenesis, which will lead to a further understanding of the etiology of colorectal cancer. Citation Format: Camilo Anthony G. Gacasan. Administration of Parabacteroides distasonis in the attenuation of colorectal tumorigenesis in a carcinogenic murine model of colorectal cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2018; 2018 Apr 14-18; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 5146.
Personal Control from the Perspective of Cognitive-Experiential Self-Theory

A not unreasonable definition of personal control is the ability of a person to carry out his or her intentions. If I am in control of a situation, I can influence the outcome to come out as I intend. If I am in control of myself I can make myself behave as I intend. Under what circumstances do I not have control? There are several such conditions. First, I may not have the ability to influence the outcome as I wish. I may desire to play the violin magnificently, or to have a devastating tennis serve, but lack the ability to do so. To improve my control I would have to improve my skill.
Fault and Defect Modeling

A model of a physical object or model of a phenomenon is a representation of the object or ­phenomenon that is used for the specific purpose of analyzing the behavior of the object, studying the phenomenon, or studying the effect of the object or phenomenon on its environment or surroundings. A computer simulation program uses a model. The information we obtain from running a simulation program depends on the model that is used for simulation. For example, a model of a circuit can be developed for predicting its temperature radiation, its logical behavior, or its behavior of when the circuit becomes faulty.
Nature of Moral Statements

This chapter will explain briefly the various types of statements and then indicate how moral statements can be plausibly interpreted as one or another type of statement. It should be quite evident that the deliberations we are about to undertake are very important. The intelligent person most assuredly is curious about his moral utterances. He not only wants to know how to make moral decisions, but he desires to understand the significance of the statements he uses in arriving at these decisions. Those who happen to be content simply with the ability to use moral principles to make moral judgments perhaps will find this chapter less interesting. Nevertheless, the analysis will unquestionably have its relevance to moral situations. Knowing the nature of a moral statement is important, not so much in the making of a moral decision in a direct fashion as in comprehending what is happening when two people utter incompatible moral statments, especially when these express moral principles or moral judgments. For the necessary steps in solving disagreements are indicated more clearly if we know whether a moral statement is a statement of fact, an emotive expression, or something else.
Neighborhood deprivation predicts infant sleep quality.

Abstract Objectives The current study examined the relationship between neighborhood deprivation and infant sleep at 3 months of age. Methods Neighborhood and sleep data were collected from 80 African American infants and their caregivers. A composite neighborhood deprivation score was created using census data. Infant sleep was measured via 7 nights of actigraphy monitoring when infants were 3 months of age. Current analyses considered the average number of infant night wakings as an index of sleep quality. Multilevel models were used, in which children (level 1) were nested within census tracts (level 2). Results Controlling for level 1 covariates, greater neighborhood deprivation (b = 0.07, P Conclusions Findings suggest that infants who reside in communities marked by higher deprivation experience poorer quality sleep, even after controlling for family-level factors.
Understanding chondrodysplasia (cho): A comprehensive review of cho as an animal model of birth defects, disorders, and molecular mechanisms.

Background The mutant chondrodysplasia (cho) is a cartilage-targeting disorder in C57BL mice that results in dwarfing and other malformations stemming from this collagenopathy. Clarke Fraser made the discovery of the mutation accidentally in the early 1960s during the thalidomide tragedy. Methods For this review we identified key research on cho as since its discovery. Relevant data were compiled to make a comprehensive review that details discoveries associated with the cho mutation, that describes the associated phenotypes and molecular mechanisms, and that provides a discussion surrounding its current clinical relevance. Results Mechanistically, cho acts by hindering chondrogenesis and endochondral bone formation. The phenotype results from a 1-nt deletion in the gene encoding the alpha 1 chain of type XI collagen. For more than half a century, researchers have studied the pathogenesis of the cho mutation in relation to a variety of mouse models of human birth defects and disease. These studies have resulted in several discoveries linking cho with such human disorders as dwarfism, tracheal stenosis, cleft palate, pulmonary hypoplasia, and osteoarthritis (OA). Conclusion The study of cho has led to numerous advances in understanding human birth defects, congenital disorders, and adult human disease. The most recent studies have suggested a role for the TGF-Beta, HtrA1, Ddr2, and Mmp-13 pathway in the degradation of articular cartilage and the development of OA in cho/+ mice. We have shown that the anti-hypertension drug Losartan is a TGF-Beta blocker that could be used to treat OA in Stickler syndrome, and thereby rescue the WT phenotype.
The applied music lesson: Teaching gifted and talented students utilising principles of comprehensive musicianship

Comprehensive musicianship is a term used to describe the intradisciplinary study of music. The comprehensive musicianship approach is closely related to Gestalt psychology in that music is approached as a totality, with a concern for constituent parts and how they relate to the whole (Willoughby, 1971). The concept of integration is central to the philosophy of comprehensive musicianship. By relating and integrating the various areas of music, integration allows for a logical and meaningful learning experience. The comprehensive musicianship approach brings balance and focus to the disparate areas of music, allowing students to pursue and explore all aspects of music and their interrelationships (Willoughby, 1971). The intent of the comprehensive musicianship approach is to integrate and synthesise all areas of music including music history, music literature, music theory, performance and pedagogy into a unified whole (Spearman, 1979; MENC, 1965).
Abstract 2677: MSIClass–Identification and classification of microsatellite unstable using cell-free DNA from ultra-low-pass sequencing

The acquisition of mismatch repair deficiency is common in many tumor types. A unique subtype of mismatch repair deficient tumors, called tumors with microsatellite instability (MSI), has been recently approved for treatment with PD-1\PD-L1 blockade immunotherapy. Therefore, developing a quick, inexpensive, and easy-to-implement technique for classifying tumors as MSI is of utmost importance. Here, we describe such a method using next-generation sequencing data, and show that it can detect MSI from cell-free DNA (cfDNA), even when there is low fraction of tumor DNA in the cfDNA. We first analyzed the unique mutational features of MSI vs. microsatellite stable (MSS) tumors. Using our SignatureAnalyzer tool, we analyzed the signatures of the different insertions and deletions within microsatellite loci (MS-indels), and found that MSI tumors harbor elevated MS-indels of certain types, which we further validated using whole genome sequencing data from The Cancer Genome Atlas. We next used this information to develop a method (MSIClass) that analyzes the WGS data of a given sample by capturing the features unique to MSI tumors. This method assigns each sample a score based on aggregating information from all MS loci simultaneously; since MSIClass is a sample-based tool, it can call the MSI status of tumor samples that have no patient-matched normal sample. We further demonstrate that MSIClass requires minimal genomic information; indeed, sequencing coverage as low as 0.05x (current sequencing cost of ~$2/sample) is sufficient for accurate classification by MSIClass. Using in silico and in vitro DNA mixing we show that MSIClass can accurately identify MSI cases in very low purity cases, at 0.1% tumor DNA (using 0.5x sequencing coverage). We show that MSIClass, applied on cfDNA, could accurately classify 29 colon cases – 22 MSS and 7 MSI cases, 3 of which are early stage disease and with low tumor content. These results demonstrate that MSIClass is an inexpensive MSI test that can be applied in various cases: bulk sequencing where a matched normal is not available, cases of very low purity tumors, and even using cfDNA from blood in cases a biopsy is not available or possible. Finally, this methodology can be the basis for monitoring minimal residual disease, and potential be used for early detection of MSI tumors. Citation Format: Yosef E. Maruvka, Ruslana Frazer, Jonna Grimsby, Carrie Cibulskis, Viktor Adalsteinsson, Ryan Corcoran, Gad Getz. MSIClass–Identification and classification of microsatellite unstable using cell-free DNA from ultra-low-pass sequencing [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2019; 2019 Mar 29-Apr 3; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 2677.
Flex-LIONS: A Scalable Silicon Photonic Bandwidth-Reconfigurable Optical Switch Fabric

We propose Flex-LIONS, a silicon photonic switch architecture with 21 × less switching elements and 2.9× lower on-chip loss when compared with other reconfigurable switching fabrics at a scale of 64 ports. Benchmarking simulations indicate 1.33× reduction in packet latency and > 1.5× improvement in energy efficiency when compared with Fat Tree topologies.
Near-Real-Time Forecast of Satellite-Based Soil Moisture Using Long Short-Term Memory with an Adaptive Data Integration Kernel

AbstractNowcasts, or near-real-time (NRT) forecasts, of soil moisture based on the Soil Moisture Active and Passive (SMAP) mission could provide substantial value for a range of applications includ...
The genome of a Bacteroidetes inhabitant of the human gut encodes a structurally distinct enoyl-acyl carrier protein reductase (FabI).

Enoyl-acyl carrier protein reductase (FabI) catalyzes a rate-controlling step in bacterial fatty-acid synthesis and is a target for antibacterial drug development. A phylogenetic analysis shows that FabIs fall into four divergent clades. Members of clades 1-3 have been structurally and biochemically characterized, but the fourth clade, found in members of phylum Bacteroidetes, is uncharacterized. Here, we identified the unique structure and conformational changes that distinguish clade 4 FabIs. Alistipes finegoldii is a prototypical Bacteroidetes inhabitant of the gut microbiome. We found that A. finegoldii FabI (AfFabI) displays cooperative kinetics and uses NADH as a cofactor, and its crystal structure at 1.72 A resolution showed that it adopts a Rossmann fold as do other characterized FabIs. It also disclosed a carboxyl-terminal extension that forms a helix-helix interaction that links the protomers as a unique feature of AfFabI. An AfFabI·NADH crystal structure at 1.86 A resolution revealed that this feature undergoes a large conformational change to participate in covering the NADH-binding pocket and establishing the water channels that connect the active site to the central water well. Progressive deletion of these interactions led to catalytically compromised proteins that fail to bind NADH. This unique conformational change imparted a distinct shape to the AfFabI active site that renders it refractory to a FabI drug that targets clade 1 and 3 pathogens. We conclude that the clade 4 FabI, found in the Bacteroidetes inhabitants of the gut, have several structural features and conformational transitions that distinguish them from other bacterial FabIs.
Chapter 19 – Nonadditive Representations

Publisher Summary Most work in the theory of measurement has been based on additive representations for various kinds of structures. There are good reasons for studying the structures in which the numerical combination rules are intrinsically nonadditive. This chapter discusses nonadditivity in its various guises. The approach to nonadditivity is pursued in the chapter, namely, representation by nonadditive binary numerical operations. The chapter provides an overview of an approach, due to Narens and Luce, which mediates between two goals. If a structure has “holes,” so that its natural representation cannot be onto a real interval, it might be possible to fill the holes with ideal elements, while preserving the key properties. Thus, standard mathematics can be used despite the holes. The chapter presents a theorem due to Cohen. More work is needed to understand what could be accomplished by this approach. The existence of a representation of a conjoint structure that is unrestrictedly solvable and Archimedean follows almost immediately from the facts that its induced structure is a total concatenation structure.
Red-flagging the leagues: the U.S. Sports most in danger from match-fixing

On May 14, 2018, the U.S. Supreme Court effectively allowed single-game sports wagering in America. The current U.S. sports gambling market is estimated at somewhere between $67 billion and $400 bi...
Matched Cohort Study of Convalescent COVID-19 Plasma Treatment in Severely or Life Threateningly Ill COVID-19 Patients.

Background The utility of convalescent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) plasma (CCP) in the current pandemic is not well defined. We sought to evaluate the safety and efficacy of CCP in severely or life threateningly ill COVID-19 patients when matched with a contemporaneous cohort. Methods Patients with severe or life-threatening COVID-19 were treated with CCP according to Food and Drug Administration criteria, prioritization by an interdisciplinary team, and based on CCP availability. Individual-level matched controls (1:1) were identified from patients admitted during the prior month when no CCP was available. The safety outcome was freedom from adverse transfusion reaction, and the efficacy outcome was a composite of death or worsening O2 support. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data were analyzed by univariate and multivariable regression analyses accounting for matched design. Results Study patients (n = 94, 47 matched pairs) were 62% male with a mean age of 58, and 98% (90/94) were minorities (53% Hispanic, 45% Black, non-Hispanic) in our inner-city population. Seven-day composite and mortality outcomes suggested a nonsignificant benefit in CCP-treated patients (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 0.70; 95% CI, 0.23-2.12; P = .52; aHR, 0.23; 95% CI, 0.04-1.51; P = .13, respectively). Stratification by pretransfusion mechanical ventilation status showed no differences between groups. No serious transfusion reactions occurred. Conclusions In this short-term matched cohort study, transfusion with CCP was safe and showed a nonsignificant association with study outcomes. Randomized and larger trials to identify appropriate timing and dosing of CCP in COVID-19 are warranted. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04420988.
Hyperhomocysteinemia and Oxidative Stress May Predict the Risk of Stroke in Patients Supported by Continuous Flow Left Ventricular Assist Devices

Purpose Stroke is one of the leading complications during CF-LVAD support. The purpose of this observational study was to investigate the temporal relationship of circulating homocysteine (Hcy) and oxidative stress as potential markers to identify CF-LVAD patients at risk for developing postoperative strokes. Methods We analyzed available blood samples from 24 selected subjects including non-heart failure control group(n=6) and heart-failure patients undergoing CF-LVAD implant(n=18). The CF-LVAD patients were selected in stroke group(n=6) those who developed stroke within a month after implant and were compared to selected matched patients who did not develop stroke(n=12). Baseline Hcy, malondialdehyde(MDA) and antioxidant were compared between groups. Weekly blood samples at 1,2,3 and 4 weeks were analyzed in selected stroke and no-stroke groups. Results At baseline, CF-LVAD patients had higher plasma Hcy and MDA and lower antioxidant than the control group(Fig1A-C). There was a significant 1.8-fold increase in baseline Hcy in stroke group compared to no-stroke group though there were no differences in the levels of MDA and antioxidant between them(Fig1A-C). In stroke group, post-implant levels of Hcy and MDA increased temporally and remained elevated while these trends were not seen in the no-stroke group(Fig1D-F). There was also a significant depletion in antioxidant in stroke group at week 4 compared to no-stroke group(Fig1F). Conclusion A near 2-fold rise in baseline Hcy was seen in stroke group patients compared to no-stroke patients, suggesting its utility as a potential biomarker to predict stroke risk after CF-LVAD implant. Elevated Hcy, oxidative stress and depleted antioxidant may be important indicators of systemic response of the body to CF-LVAD in patients who have stroke. These findings also suggest that vascular endothelial dysfunction may plan an important role in the development of stroke in CF-LVAD recipients.
Are the First and Second Hip in Staged Bilateral Total Hip Arthroplasty Equal? A Hospital Adverse Event and Perioperative Risk Comparison

Hospital adverse events remain a significant issue; even “minor events” may lead to increased costs. However, to the best of our knowledge, no previous investigation has compared perioperative events between the first and second hip in staged bilateral total hip arthroplasty (THA). In the current study, we perform such a comparison. A retrospective chart review was performed on a consecutive series of 172 patients (344 hips) who underwent staged bilateral THAs performed by two surgeons at a single institution (2010–2016). Based on chronological order of the staged arthroplasties, two groups were set apart: first-staged THA and second-staged THA. Baseline-demographics, length of stay (LOS), discharge disposition, hospital adverse events, and hospital transfusions were compared between groups. Statistical analyses were performed using independent t-tests, Fisher's exact test, and/or Pearson's chi-squared test. The mean time between staged surgeries was 465 days. There were no significant differences in baseline demographics between first-staged THA and second-staged THA groups (patients were their own controls). The mean LOS was significantly longer in the first-staged THA group than in the second (2.2 vs. 1.8 days; p Level of Evidence Level III.
Efficacy of botulinum toxin for treating cramps in peripheral neuropathy

Abstract Introduction: Muscle cramps are a common occurrence in patients with peripheral neuropathy and are known to cause significant distress and decrease the quality of life. Although several drug formulations have been used in the management of cramps, there is significant variability in terms of efficacy and tolerability in patients with peripheral neuropathy. This study aims to assess the efficacy of botulinum toxin A in the management of lower limb cramps in patients with peripheral neuropathy. Methods: This retrospective chart review included a total of ten patients with peripheral neuropathy with cramps. Relevant data such as age, gender, race, pain score and cause of peripheral neuropathy were documented. Statistical analyses to compare the variables was done using the Wilcoxon Test. The pain score before the administration, at 3-month, 6 month and 9 months follow up were compared. Results All patients enrolled in the study showed improvement of pain assessed by visual pain analog scale. An improvement of 1.60 (95%CI, p<0.05), 2.70 (95%CI, p<0.05) and 3.50 (95%CI, p=0.05) was noted between test scores from before administration of botulinum toxin to 3-month, 6 months and 9 months follow up with a range of 6, 4 and 4 respectively. Conclusion: Local BTX-A infiltration is a likely efficacious and safe procedure for improving pain associated with cramps in patients with peripheral neuropathy.
Circadian neurons in the paraventricular nucleus entrain and sustain daily rhythms in glucocorticoids.

Signals from the central circadian pacemaker, the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), must be decoded to generate daily rhythms in hormone release. Here, we hypothesized that the SCN entrains rhythms in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) to time the daily release of corticosterone. In vivo recording revealed a critical circuit from SCN vasoactive intestinal peptide (SCNVIP)-producing neurons to PVN corticotropin-releasing hormone (PVNCRH)-producing neurons. PVNCRH neurons peak in clock gene expression around midday and in calcium activity about three hours later. Loss of the clock gene Bmal1 in CRH neurons results in arrhythmic PVNCRH calcium activity and dramatically reduces the amplitude and precision of daily corticosterone release. SCNVIP activation reduces (and inactivation increases) corticosterone release and PVNCRH calcium activity, and daily SCNVIP activation entrains PVN clock gene rhythms by inhibiting PVNCRH neurons. We conclude that daily corticosterone release depends on coordinated clock gene and neuronal activity rhythms in both SCNVIP and PVNCRH neurons. It is unclear how circadian signals from the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) are decoded to generate daily rhythms in hormone release. Here, the authors show that daily corticosterone release depends on coordinated clock gene and neuronal activity rhythms in both SCN and paraventricular nucleus neurons.
Preparing student pharmacists to care for patients exposed to intimate partner violence

Abstract Introduction Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a serious public health problem. Little is known about pharmacists' IPV knowledge and awareness. This study assessed student pharmacists' knowledge, attitudes, and awareness of IPV and examined the impact of a brief curricular unit on these factors. Methods The Physician Readiness to Manage Intimate Partner Violence Survey was adapted for use with student pharmacists and administered at two pharmacy schools, one private (n = 88) and one public institution (n = 104). Students at one institution were exposed to a curricular unit on IPV tailored for pharmacy practice and completed a post-assessment. Results Students at both institutions had low levels of IPV-related knowledge, answering Conclusions Preparing student pharmacists to care for patients exposed to IPV may improve patient outcomes and positively impact the lives of the patients they serve. A brief educational intervention improved students' knowledge about IPV and confidence in screening patients for IPV.
Exposure of Small Airways to Cristobalite In Vitro

Certain inorganic particulates, such as carbon (Mossman et al. 1978) asbestos (Mossman et al. 1982) and silica (Adler et al. 1984 a) can generate a toxic response, as well as stimulate mucin secretion, after deposition upon epithelium of extrapulmonary airways in vitro. However, in vivo, it is within the smaller intrapulmonary bronchi and bronchioles where a response to inhaled particulates, such as stimulated secretion, release of inflammatory mediators, and initiation of bronchoconstriction, would have the greatest influence on airflow resistance and ventilation. Despite their obvious importance, responses of small airways to impingement of potentially deleterious particulates have not been elucidated.
Disabled Without Benefits: The Impacts of Recent Social Security Reform on Disabled Children

In 1996, Congress passed sweeping reforms aimed at overhauling the welfare system. The Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act ("PRWORA") included a new definition of childhood disability that, it is estimated, excluded 100,000 children from SSI benefits. This Note explains the changes implemented within the childhood disability system and explains the reasoning behind those changes. It then argues that the regulations promulgated in response to PRWORA exclude truly disabled children from receiving disability benefits. These regulations violate the Social Security Act, are inconsistent with the stated policies of the Social Security Administration and draw arbitrary distinctions, violating the legislative intent of the Social Security Act.
An Offer They Can't Refuse: Spectrum Reallocation that can Benefit Consumers, Broadcasters & the Mobile Broadband Sector

Consider two relatively uncontroversial statements:(1) America needs more spectrum to feed its growing appetite for mobile broadband(2) Traditional television broadcasters are facing unprecedented marketplace competition and serious financial turmoil that threatens their long-term viabilityCould Congress or the FCC help broker a deal by buying out broadcasters and then re-auctioning a portion of that spectrum for mobile broadband services?Blair Levin, Executive Director of the FCC's Omnibus Broadband Initiative, suggested broadcasters might want to consider returning their spectrum in exchange for a share in the billions of dollars coming from the auction of the spectrum to the wireless industry – a relevant pitch considering Levin is in charge of formulating the FCC's plan to boost broadband deployment. Meanwhile a report crafted by a working group deployed by The Progress & Freedom Foundation on new spectrum policy offers five "Transition Options for Encumbered Spectrum," – including two variants similar to that of Levin's:1) An FCC-driven spectrum auction that would grant winners the right to clear incumbents from the spectrum they have purchased, by paying relocation costs or paying the incumbent to cease operations.2) A "Big Bang" auction with unassigned and encumbered spectrum: To either permit incumbents to repurchase their existing rights at no net cost or permit the FCC to repackage and auction the spectrum clear of any encumbrance. However, it is worth noting broadcasters bought spectrum from previous owners, invested in their stations, and built relationships in their communities. It is essential that broadcasters be willing partners in a reallocation plan and see clear benefits for themselves, their shareholders, and the viewing public, under just compensation. Another spectrum auction becomes an attractive target for cash-starved legislators, but Congress must be willing to let the FCC make the deal generous enough that broadcasters are willing to listen.
Cross-spectral methods for processing biological signals

We present methods for estimation of signal parameters and apply these methods to biological signals. The methods are based on cross-spectral phase which is computed from the phase of the short time Fourier transform. The methods are applied to acoustical biological signals, including human speech and dolphin sonar clicks. Specifically addressed are the problems of crisp narrowband time frequency representations from very small data sets, accurately estimating speech formants, blind recovery of the group delay of the transmission channel and equalization of time-frequency representations.
Electron microscopic studies on rabbit ova: II. The penetrated tubal ovum

The nuclear and cytoplasmic changes that occur in the rabbit tubal ovum after penetration by the spermatozoon have been considered. At the completion of the second meiotic division, the nuclear changes begin with the reconstitution of a double envelope around individual chromosomes. This is followed by migration of the chromosomes toward the center of the cell, chromosome clumping, and formation of a female pronucleus. The cytoplasmic changes are characterized by reorganization of the ergastoplasmic reticulum, development of a hypertrophic Golgi apparatus, and the appearance of annulate lamellae. The significance of these morphological changes is considered and discussed.
The BBP Algorithm for Pi

The 'Bailey-Borwein-Plouffe' (BBP) algorithm for {pi} is based on the BBP formula for {pi}, which was discovered in 1995 and published in 1996 [3]: {pi} = {summation}{sub k=0}{sup {infinity}} 1/16{sup k} (4/8k+1 - 2/8k+4 - 1/8k+5 - 1/8k+6). This formula as it stands permits {pi} to be computed fairly rapidly to any given precision (although it is not as efficient for that purpose as some other formulas that are now known [4, pg. 108-112]). But its remarkable property is that it permits one to calculate (after a fairly simple manipulation) hexadecimal or binary digits of {pi} beginning at an arbitrary starting position. For example, ten hexadecimal digits {pi} beginning at position one million can be computed in only five seconds on a 2006-era personal computer. The formula itself was found by a computer program, and almost certainly constitutes the first instance of a computer program finding a significant new formula for {pi}. It turns out that the existence of this formula has implications for the long-standing unsolved question of whether {pi} is normal to commonly used number bases (a real number x is said to be b-normal if every m-long string of digits in the base-b expansion appears, in themore » limit, with frequency b{sup -m}). Extending this line of reasoning recently yielded a proof of normality for class of explicit real numbers (although not yet including {pi}) [4, pg. 148-156].« less
Receptors for C3b on the neutrophil surface associate with the cytoskeleton-containing cell residue subsequent to cell lysis with non-ionic detergent. Cytoskeletal-CR1 interactions.

Abstract Radioiodinated Fab′ and F(ab′)2 fragments were prepared from 57F monoclonal antibody which is specific for the C3b receptor (CR1) on human cells. We find that both Fab′ and F(ab′)2 fragments bind to CR1 on human neutrophils and then dissociate, at 0°C, with half-lives of 172 and 35 min, respectively. In addition to binding to cell surface CR1, both antibody fragments bind specifically to the isolated non-ionic detergent-insoluble cellular residue (NDIR) which remains after cell lysis and solubilization in Triton X-100. We also find that Fab′ and F(ab′)2 antibody fragments remain associated with the NDIR after the radiolabeled antibody fragments are allowed to bind to cell surface CR1, the unbound fragments removed, and the cells subsequently lysed in non-ionic detergent. Because the cytoskeletal matrix (together with the cell nucleus) makes up a substantial portion of the NDIR, these results suggest that some fraction of cell surface CR1 may be associated in vivo with the cytoskeletal matrix. However, post-lysis association of cell surface-CR1-antibody fragment complexes to the NDIR occurs. Examination of the binding kinetics of this interaction reveals that less than 10% of cell surface CR1 exists bound to the NDIR prior to cell lysis. While the nature of post-cell lysis association of CR1 with the NDIR is unknown, several modulating effects are noted. For example, binding of bivalent cross-linking agents to CR1 on cells followed by a 37°C incubation is known to induce internalization of cell surface CR1. We find that binding of F(ab′)2 antibody fragments under these conditions causes a 50% decrease in association of this 57F fragment to the NDIR. Pretreatment of the cells at 37°C with the chemotactic peptide N-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine similarly caused a 50% decrease of (Fab′-labeled) CR1 association with the NDIR cell fraction. These results support the hypothesis that chemotactic peptide serves to enhance CR1-mediated adherence to C3b-bearing targets by increasing the density of CR1 on the cell surface rather than by inducing cytoskeletal-dependent, detergent-stable, CR1 redistribution on the cell surface.
Synchronization of multiple parametric frequency combs

We theoretically demonstrate passive synchronization of solitons in systems of two-and three-microresonator-based parametric frequency combs resulting in time-locked pulses and frequency-locked comb lines.