cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Priors Based on Levy Processes

The independent increments process, also known as (positive) Levy process, with its associated Levy measure has emerged as an important vehicle in the development of a group of processes such as neutral to the right, gamma, extended gamma, beta, and beta-Stacy processes that are discussed cohesively in this chapter. After a brief review of the Levy process and its generalization the completely random measure and of the Poisson Process which is used in its construction, we present a detail treatment of the neutral to the right process defined on the real line since all other processes discussed here can be classified as of the neutral to the right type. It is shown to have the desirable conjugacy property which facilitates the Bayesian analysis of statistical data even in the case of right censored data which the Dirichlet process fails to do. We devote a sizable effort to the derivation of the posterior distribution under this prior and simulation procedures necessary thereof, since it carries over to other neutral to the right type processes as well. Thereafter we introduce a simple case of Levy process, namely the gamma process, in which the independent increments are assumed to be distributed as gamma distribution, followed by its convolution with a known function, the extended gamma process, to serve as a prior on the space of hazard functions.We discuss next the beta process, which was developed to place a prior on the space of cumulative hazard functions defined on the real line, and also indirectly on the space of distribution functions, along with its important properties. The Levy measure of the beta process when viewed on an arbitrary space is shown to be useful in generating a prior process known as the Indian buffet process, which serves as a prior on the space of sparse binary matrices encountered in featural modeling. Further generalizations of the beta process, such as the stable and kernel beta processes, are also considered in the same context. A special case of the Levy process—the log-beta process, in which the increments are assumed to have a beta-Stacy distribution, is used in developing the beta-Stacy process presented next, and noted that the latter not only generalizes the Dirichlet process but is also conjugate with respect to data which may include right censored observations as well. Finally, we present the derivation of three special processes, namely the Chinese restaurant, the Indian buffet, and infinite gamma-Poisson processes, which have emerged to be very useful in areas outside the statistical field, such as machine learning, information retrieval, and featural modeling. We also discuss in the chapter various properties, special characteristics, essential features and limitations, as well as challenges in applications of the above mentioned processes.
Scenario Reduction With Submodular Optimization

Stochastic programming methods have been proven to deal effectively with the uncertainty and variability of renewable generation resources. However, the quality of the solution that they provide (as measured by cost and reliability metrics) depends on the accuracy and the number of scenarios used to model this uncertainty and variability. Scenario reduction techniques are used to manage the computational burden by selecting representative scenarios. The common drawback of existing scenario reduction techniques is that the number of representative scenarios is a user-defined parameter. We propose a scenario reduction algorithm based on submodular function optimization to endogenously optimize the number of scenarios as well as rank these scenarios. This algorithm is compared, both qualitatively and quantitatively, with the state-of-the-art fast forward selection algorithm.
Upfront use of plerixafor and granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (GCSF) for stem cell mobilization in patients with multiple myeloma: efficacy and analysis of risk factors associated with poor stem cell collection efficiency*

Plerixafor (P), an agent that selectively and reversibly binds to the chemokine receptor CXCR4, has been approved in combination with G-CSF (P + G-CSF) for stem cell (SC) mobilization in patients with multiple myeloma (MM). The goal of this study was to determine the SC collection success rate of P + G-CSF using a clinically relevant outcome defined as the ability to collect at least 5 × 106 CD34+ cells/kg to allow safely two transplants, and identify risk factors impacting SC mobilization. One hundred and thirty-eight patients were mobilized with P + G-CSF upfront following induction. The SC collection success rate was 92.8%. We identified exposure to lenalidomide alone (p = .038), WBC count <4 × 103/mcL prior to mobilization (p = .01) and non-African American race (p = .019), as risk factors for low efficiency by multivariate analysis. This study demonstrates that P + G-CSF is highly efficient in MM patients and provides strong support for its upfront use in SC collection for MM patients.
The people sensor: a mobility aid for the visually impaired

Electronic Travel Aids, which transform visual environmental cues into another sensory modality, have been proven to help visually impaired people travel with a greater degree of psychological comfort and independence. The People Sensor is an Electronic Travel Aid designed to address two issues of importance to visually impaired people: inadvertent cane contact with other pedestrians and objects, and speaking to a person who is no longer within hearing range. The device uses pyroelectric and ultrasound sensors to locate and differentiate between animate (human) and inanimate (non-human) obstructions in the detection path. The distance between the user and the obstruction along with the nature of the obstruction (human or non-human) is transmitted via modulated vibrotactile feedback. Armed with advance knowledge of the presence and location of objects and people in the environment, users of The People Sensor can travel with increased independence, safety and confidence.
Resource survivability for multicast in elastic optical networks

While the multicast paradigm offers tremendous benefits in efficiency for transmitting data across optical networks, the loss of a destination, or resource, node can result in both the loss of data at the node and the disconnection of an entire established request. We propose an integer linear programming based approach to optimally solve this problem in elastic optical networks, and show that the generalized problem of protecting against this failure is NP-hard. We find that protection against this type of failure can be provided with the trade-off of increased frequency slot consumption, compared to less-protected solutions.
Therapeutic singing as an early intervention for swallowing in persons with Parkinson's disease

Abstract Objective For persons with Parkinson's disease (PD), secondary motor symptoms such as swallow impairment impact the quality of life and are major contributors to mortality. There is a present need for therapeutic interventions aimed at improving swallow function during the early stages of PD. The purpose of this pilot study was to examine the effects of a group therapeutic singing intervention on swallowing in persons with PD with no significant dysphagia symptoms. Design Cohort study. Setting University in the United States. Participants Twenty-four participants with PD. Intervention Eight weeks of group therapeutic singing. Main outcome measures Electromyography (EMG) was used to assess muscle activity associated with swallow pre and post the group singing intervention. Swallow quality of life (SWAL-QOL) and the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) were also obtained pre- and post-intervention. Results Participants reported minimal difficulty with swallowing, yet results revealed a significant increase in EMG outcome measures, as well as significant improvement in UPDRS total and UPDRS motor scores. No significant differences were revealed for SWAL-QOL. Conclusion Increases in EMG timing measures may suggest that group singing results in the prolongation of laryngeal elevation, protecting the airway from foreign material for longer periods of time during swallow. Combined with the improvement in UPDRS clinical measures, therapeutic singing may be an engaging early intervention strategy to address oropharyngeal dysphagia while also benefiting additional clinical symptoms of PD.
Can binimetinib, encorafenib and masitinib be more efficacious than currently available mutation-based targeted therapies for melanoma treatment?

ABSTRACTIntroduction: Historically, there were few effective and durable treatments for metastatic melanoma. Recently, mutation based targeted therapies have revolutionized treatment and outcomes for patients with metastatic melanoma. Specifically, inhibitors aimed at BRAF, NRAS, and C-KIT mutations are now commonly used in treatment for patients harboring the specific mutations.Areas covered: A brief review of current BRAF, NRAS, and C-KIT inhibitors provides background for a thorough review of newly developed agents namely binimetinib, a MEK inhibitor, encorafenib a BRAF inhibitor, and masitinib which inhibits C-KIT.Expert opinion: While the 3 novel agents reviewed here have potential for use in melanoma, optimal utilization will occur once a more personalized approach incorporating genomic, proteomic, and immunologic data guides therapeutic decisions.
Extraperitoneal vs Transperitoneal Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy in the Setting of Prior Abdominal or Pelvic Surgery

Abstract Introduction: During robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP), the prostate may be approached extraperiteoneally (extraperitoneal robot-assisted radical prostatectomy [eRARP]) or transperitoneally (transperitoneal robot-assisted radical prostatectomy [tRARP]). The former avoids the abdominal cavity, which might be of benefit in patients who have had prior abdominal or pelvic surgery (PAPS). Our objective was to compare the outcomes of patients with PAPS undergoing either technique. Methods: A retrospective review of patients treated with RARP from July 1, 2003 to December 31, 2014 with a minimum follow-up of 3 months was undertaken. Of 2927 patients, 620 were identified as having undergone RARP (without concomitant unrelated procedures) and PAPS (excluding patients with prior inguinal hernia repair with mesh or unclear surgical histories) for prostate adenocarcinoma without prior pelvic radiotherapy. Of these, 340 patients underwent eRARP and 280 patients underwent tRARP. Results: Patients in ...
Identifying the D-Pentoses Using Water Adduction to Lithium Cationized Molecule

A method has been developed that is capable of distinguishing an exhaustive list of underivatized D-pentoses with only a mass spectrometer. Electrospray ionization (ESI) of a solution containing a pentose and a lithium salt yields [Pentose + Li]+. These lithiated pentoses adduct water in a quadrupole ion trap. The reaction rate of water adduction is unique for several of the pentose isomers. Additionally, there are multiple potential gas-phase lithiation sites to form [Pentose + Li]+. A mixture of ions with at least one reactive (water adducting) and at least one unreactive (non-adducting) lithiation site is formed for each pentose. The water adduction reaction rate along with the unreactive fraction of lithiated pentose can be used to completely discriminate all D-pentoses.
Functionalized silica aerogels for gas-phase purification, sensing, and catalysis: A review

Abstract Silica aerogels have a rich history and offer an unusual assembly of gas- and solid-phase properties that has lent them to many diverse applications. This review starts with a brief discussion of the fundamental issues driving the movement of gases in silica aerogels and then proceeds to provide an overview of the work that has been done with respect to the purification of gases, sensing of individual gases, and uses of silica aerogels as catalysts for gas-phase reactions. Salient features of the research behind these different applications are presented, and, where appropriate, critical aspects that affect the practical use of the aerogels are noted. Specific sections under the gas-purification category focus on the removal of airborne nanoparticles, carbon dioxide, volatile organic compounds, sulfur gases and radioactive iodine from gas streams. The use of silica aerogels as sensors for humidity, oxygen, hydrocarbons, volatile acids and bases, various non-ammoniacal nitrogen gases, and viral particles is discussed. With respect to catalysis, the demonstrated use of silica aerogels as supports for oxidation, Fischer-Tropsch, alkane isomerization, and hydrogenation reactions is reviewed, along with a section on untested catalytic formulations involving silica aerogels. A short section focuses on recent developments in thermomolecular Knudsen compressor pumps using silica aerogel membranes. The review continues with an overview of the production methods, locations of manufacturing facilities globally, and a brief discussion of the economics before concluding with a few remarks about the present and future trends revealed by the work presented.
Adsorption Energy Correlations at the Metal–Support Boundary

The emergence of supercell density functional theory (DFT) over the past few decades has enabled great progress in rational catalyst design for extended surfaces of transition metals. However, insights from such metal-only models may not translate directly to metal nanoparticles dispersed on high surface area supporting phases, where metal and support may both participate in catalysis. To quantify these differences, we investigate the adsorption behavior of common catalytic intermediates at the boundaries of late transition metals supported on MgO(100). We show that the oxide can either strengthen or weaken adsorption at the metal–oxide boundary, depending on the metal–adsorbate combination. Using a thermodynamic cycle, we trace the origins of these stabilization/destabilization effects to a combination of multiple structural and electronic perturbations, including strain and ligand effects, geometric reorientation, and charging of the adsorbate. These perturbations in some cases result in departures from...
Impact of human mobility on police allocation

Motivated by recent findings that human mobility influences crime behavior in big cities and that there is a superlinear relationship between the population movement and crime, this article aims to evaluate the impact of how these findings influence police allocation. More precisely, we shed light on the differences between an allocation strategy, in which the resources are distributed by clusters of floating population, and conventional allocation strategies, in which the police resources are distributed by an Administrative Area (typically based on resident population). We observed a substantial difference in the distributions of police resources allocated following these strategies, which demonstrates the imprecision of conventional police allocation methods.
The Stability of the Normal Age Distribution

There is a unique age distribution which, in certain circumstances, has the property of perpetuating itself when once set up in a population. This fact is easily established, as is also the analytical form of this unique fixed or normal age distribution.
The Relevance of George Sand’s "Lucrezia Floriani" for Dostoevsky’s "Netochka Nezvanova"

Analyses of Dostoevsky’s unfinished 1849 novel, Netochka Nezvanova, have focused on its connection to Dostoevsky’s biography and to his earlier and later works; to the tradition of German Romanticism; to the tradition of the Bildungsroman and that of the confession; to literary depictions of the artist and the dreamer; to ideas about education; to psychological interpretations, including to the issue of codependency.Scholars have discussed influences on Netochka Nezvanova, including, among others, E.T.A. Hoffmann, Vladimir Odoevsky, Balzac, Eugene Sue, Sir Walter Scott, Dickens, Rousseau, Goncharov, Gogol, Pushkin, Herzen, and George Sand. When scholars speak about George Sand in connection with Netochka Nezvanova, some suggest that her novels, Consuelo and Lucrezia Floriani, were important to Dostoevsky in the emphasis of the future trajectory of the novel, in Netochka’s future life as a great singer.In this article, I attempt to prove that some of the major features of Netochka Nezvanova that have links to Lucrezia Floriani have almost nothing to do with the theme of the singer-to-be, but rather, have to do, almost exclusively, with aspects of psychology.I focus on these links between the Dostoevsky and George sand novels: thematic concerns and parallels that are intertwined with major characters’ personality traits and behavior; a few subplots; and a dog. Dostoevsky took the core of Lucrezia Floriani, a story of obsession, passion, and illusion – in love – that can corrupt; and applied that situation to obsession, passion, and illusion in art and human relationships.
Medical Ethics and Moral Philosophy in an Era of Bioethics

Medical ethics, the traditional professional ethic of the physician, is some 2,500 years old. Bioethics, its contemporary rival and partner, is barely half a century old. Each functions under the rubric of “ethics”; each purports to provide guidance to society on the moral uses of the unprecedented powers of modern biology. Yet, each construes “ethics” in its own way. Neither supports a robust moral philosophy with which to justify its moral dicta or define the boundaries of its moral pretensions. What seems clear is that bioethics seems destined to continue its prodigious growth and influence while its ancient predecessor, medical ethics, is undergoing slow but definite erosion. Both, however, are moving progressively away from classical ethics as the disciplined study of right and wrong, and good and bad human conduct. This essay examines this evolving state of affairs from four points of view: (1) the sociocultural environment which begat bioethics and reshaped medical ethics; (2) the evolving character of bioethics as a new field of study; (3) the transformations of traditional medical ethics by the same sociocultural forces that begat bioethics; and (4) the place, if any, of moral philosophy in preserving the ethical integrity of both medical ethics and bioethics.
Simulation Models for Urban Economies

A simulation model is a parameterised model that is solved on the computer since it is too complex to solve analytically. Most economic simulation models are used to forecast the effects of policies. This article reviews a class of simulation models that builds on the new urban economics, which views the urban economy from the perspective of competitive general equilibrium theory. The article starts with a discussion of computable general equilibrium models, then introduces the monocentric (city) model – the core model of the new urban economics – and then reviews earlier and more recent urban simulation models in this vein. The earlier simulation models were static and assumed a single centre of nonresidential activity. More recent models treat urban dynamics and polycentric cities, and are considerably richer descriptively.
Polymerization and Other Organic Reactions in the Crystalline State

Reactions of molecular crystals which do not involve polymerization may exhibit several features reflecting the crystalline order of the reagent, e.g., (a) anisotropy of reactions of the crystals with gases, (b) topotaxy, (c) selection of one of several possible reaction paths, (d) the formation of optically active reaction products from achiral or racemic reagents by the influence of a chiral crystal environment. Solid-state polymerizations are discussed particularly with respect to topotactic effects and the control of the reaction product by the geometric arrangement of monomer molecules in the monomer crystal. The survey deals with (a) the polymerization of trioxane, (b) the polymerization of crystals of vinyl monomers and their clathrate complexes, (c) the “polydimerization” of Ephenylene diacrylic acid derivatives and of distyrylpiperazine and (d) the preparation of large single polymer crystals by the homogeneous solid-state polymerization of diacetylene derivatives.
Agrammatism II: Linguistic Approaches

The study of agrammatism seeks to make connections between two bodies of knowledge: linguistic theory and brain theory. One approach to this research has been to try to characterize the patterns of sparing and loss in agrammatism in terms of linguistic theory and to consider how experimentation based on such characterizations can increase understanding, either about brains or about language. Preliminary efforts in this direction have been made in inquiry into both the comprehension and the production of agrammatic subjects.
Omega-3 fatty acids and anxiety: A systematic review of the possible mechanisms at play.

Introduction: Anxiety is prevalent, costly, and associated with significant adverse outcomes. The importance of nutrition is underestimated in the management of mental health disorders. In particular, omega-3 fatty acids (ω-3 FAs) are a critical component for healthy development and have been shown to reduce anxiety symptoms. Objective: This paper reviews the current state of the research to identify potential mechanisms underlying the relationship between ω-3 FAs and anxiety reduction. Method: Studies were identified using PubMed, PsycINFO, and CINAHL databases. Results: Of the 197 full-text studies screened, six met criteria for inclusion. Four mechanisms were identified based on primary outcomes reported by each study, Inflammatory Response, Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), Cortisol, and Cardiovascular Activity. Conclusion: Five key recommendations are provided to guide future research examining ω-3 FAs and anxiety. They include: (1) standardization of dosage and duration of ω-3 supplementatio...
New Directions in Understanding Motivation to Learn

Motivation to learn is a robust predictor of learning and other learning outcomes (Colquitt, LePine, & Noe, 2000). Motivation to learn affects learning through the choices learners make to engage i...
Investigation of a sugar N-formyltransferase from the plant pathogen Pantoea ananatis.

Pantoea ananatis is a Gram-negative bacterium first recognized in 1928 as the causative agent of pineapple rot in the Philippines. Since then various strains of the organism have been implicated in the devastation of agriculturally important crops. Some strains, however, have been shown to function as non-pathogenic plant growth promoting organisms. To date, the factors that determine pathogenicity or lack thereof between the various strains are not well understood. All P. ananatis strains contain lipopolysaccharides, which differ with respect to the identities of their associated sugars. Given our research interest on the presence of the unusual sugar, 4-formamido-4,6-dideoxy-d-glucose, found on the lipopolysaccharides of Campylobacter jejuni and Francisella tularensis, we were curious as to whether other bacteria have the appropriate biosynthetic machinery to produce these unique carbohydrates. Four enzymes are typically required for their biosynthesis: a thymidylyltransferase, a 4,6-dehydratase, an aminotransferase, and an N-formyltransferase. Here, we report that the gene SAMN03097714_1080 from the P. ananatis strain NFR11 does, indeed, encode for an N-formyltransferase, hereafter referred to as PA1080c. Our kinetic analysis demonstrates that PA1080c displays classical Michaelis-Menten kinetics with dTDP-4-amino-4,6-dideoxy-d-glucose as the substrate and N10 -formyltetrahydrofolate as the carbon source. In addition, the X-ray structure of PA1080c, determined to 1.7 A resolution, shows that the enzyme adopts the molecular architecture observed for other sugar N-formyltransferases. Analysis of the P. ananatis NFR11 genome suggests that the three other enzymes necessary for N-formylated sugar biosynthesis are also present. Intriguingly, those strains of P. ananatis that are non-pathogenic apparently do not contain these genes.
Controlled Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Ligand Display on Cancer Suicide Enzymes via Unnatural Amino Acid Engineering for Enhanced Intracellular Delivery in Breast Cancer Cells.

Proteins are ideal candidates for disease treatment because of their high specificity and potency. Despite this potential, delivery of proteins remains a significant challenge due to the intrinsic size, charge, and stability of proteins. Attempts to overcome these challenges have most commonly relied on direct conjugation of polymers and peptides to proteins via reactive groups on naturally occurring residues. While such approaches have shown some success, they allow limited control of the spacing and number of moieties coupled to proteins, which can hinder bioactivity and delivery capabilities of the therapeutic. Here, we describe a strategy to site-specifically conjugate delivery moieties to therapeutic proteins through unnatural amino acid (UAA) incorporation, in order to explore the effect of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-targeted ligand valency and spacing on internalization of proteins in EGFR-overexpressing inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) cells. Our results demonstrate the ability to enh...
Perspectives on facilitating whole exome sequencing for international patients at Mayo Clinic

Whole exome sequencing (WES) has become a fundamental component of genetic evaluation and diagnosing rare genetic diseases. This test is now offered to patients from a wide variety of cultural backgrounds and in various clinical and research settings. This commentary is a reflection of one group of clinical genetic counselors' experiences in facilitating WES for patients who come from outside the United States for genetic evaluation and pursue WES. This patient population in our clinic primarily consists of individuals from the Middle East and presents recurrent logistical and counseling challenges. We aim to describe our international patient population, illuminate the challenges we have faced and illustrate how we have addressed these challenges.
Model-Based Control of Soft Actuators Using Learned Non-linear Discrete-Time Models.

Soft robots have the potential to significantly change the way that robots interact with the environment and with humans. However, accurately modeling soft robot and soft actuator dynamics in order to perform model-based control can be extremely difficult. Deep neural networks are a powerful tool for modeling systems with complex dynamics such as the pneumatic, continuum joint, six degree-of-freedom robot shown in this paper. Unfortunately it is also difficult to apply standard model-based control techniques using a neural net. In this work, we show that the gradients used within a neural net to relate system states and inputs to outputs can be used to formulate a linearized discrete state space representation of the system. Using the state space representation, model predictive control (MPC) was developed with a six degree of freedom pneumatic robot with compliant plastic joints and rigid links. Using this neural net model, we were able to achieve an average steady state error across all joints of approximately 1 and 2$^\circ$ with and without integral control respectively. We also implemented a first-principles based model for MPC and the learned model performed better in terms of steady state error, rise time, and overshoot. Overall, our results show the potential of combining empirical modeling approaches with model-based control for soft robots and soft actuators.
Critical evaluation of p-type doping effects in Bi-Sb alloys

We have investigated the doping effects of elements (Sn, Pb, Ge) with valence 4 in Bi-Sb alloys. The solubilities of these elements in Bi-Sb alloy are known to range from ∼3 to ∼0.5 to zero atomic percent, respectively. We employed a rapid solidification method to prepare samples that allowed us to achieve a high doping level of Ge and a high doping efficiency of Pb in Bi85Sb15. Using this method, unprecedented high Ge content (up to 13 atomic percent) could be solutionized in Bi-Sb. Microstructure analyses and thermoelectric transport property measurements have been performed on the doped samples which all showed p-type properties at cryogenic temperatures. The doping efficiency of the elements (Sn, Pb, Ge) was calculated based on the Hall measurements and discussed in light of donor and acceptor sites in Bi-Sb. A two-band effective mass model was used to simulate the thermoelectric transport properties within the Boltzmann transport theory. The present study revealed a gap-decreasing phenomenon in the undoped and doped samples. This gap-decreasing behavior is a heretofore unrealized obstacle to achieving a high thermoelectric figure of merit in p-type Bi-Sb alloys.
Order Indication Solicitation to Assess Clinical Laboratory Test Utilization: D-Dimer Order Patterns as an Illustrative Case.

Background:A common challenge in the development of laboratory clinical decision support (CDS) and laboratory utilization management (UM) initiatives stems from the fact that many laboratory tests have multiple potential indications, limiting the ability to develop context-specific alerts. As a potential solution, we designed a CDS alert that asks the ordering clinician to provide the indication for testing, using D-dimer as an exemplar. Using data collected over a nearly 3-year period, we sought to determine whether the indication capture was a useful feature within the CDS alert and whether it provided actionable intelligence to guide the development of an UM strategy. Methods: We extracted results and ordering data for D-dimer testing performed in our laboratory over a 35-month period. We analyzed order patterns by clinical indication, hospital service, and length of hospitalization. Results: Our final data set included 13,971 result-order combinations and indeed provided actionable intelligence regarding test utilization patterns. For example, pulmonary embolism was the most common emergency department indication (86%), while disseminated intravascular coagulation was the most common inpatient indication (56%). D-dimer positivity rates increased with the duration of hospitalization and our data suggested limited utility for ordering this test in the setting of suspected venous thromboembolic disease in admitted patients. In addition, we found that D-dimer was ordered for unexpected indications including the assessment of stroke, dissection, and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Conclusions: Indication capture within a CDS alert and correlation with result data can provide insight into order patterns which can be used to develop future CDS strategies to guide appropriate test use by clinical indication.
Proposed Administrative Tribunal Policies Concerning Indigenous Ecological Knowledge and Values, and the Duty to Consult

1. IntroductionFormer Chief Justice McLachlin’s recognition of the importance and effectiveness of tribunals is nowhere more relevant than in Canada’s North—particularly with respect to the co-management of wildlife and the environment. Prior to the relatively recent establishment of land claim boards, much decision making with respect to environmental and wildlife matters in the northern regions was made in Ottawa, and essentially all decision making followed processes that, at best, afforded insufficient input from those most affected by such decisions.While significant advances have been achieved over the last several decades, there still remains room for improvement. Accordingly, this article intends to set out recommendations for:(a) Enhancements to the integration of Indigenous Ecological Knowledge (IEK)2 and values into the practice of administrative law in the North; and(b) Tribunal policies that reflect recent Supreme Court of Canada decisions regarding the duty to consult and, where appropriate, accommodate. ... ...More
Leukemia cutis in a medical center in southern Taiwan: A retrospective study of 42 patients.

Background/Purpose Leukemia cutis (LC), by definition, is the infiltration of neoplastic leukocytes in the skin. The overall incidence of LC is rare. We aimed to investigate the association between clinical characteristics, classifications and prognosis among different types of LC in Taiwan. Methods We performed a retrospective analysis of forty-two patients with histopathology proven LC based on skin biopsies in a medical center in Southern Taiwan from 1997 to 2018. The study involved medical records of the patients, clinical manifestations, and outcomes according to different types of leukemia. Results This series consisted of 27 males and 15 females, and the mean age was 55.7 years old. The most common cutaneous features were papules (38%) and nodules (29%), followed by plaques (16%) and ulcers (10%). The most commonly affected sites were the trunk (33%) and extremities (31.5%), although generalized distribution (14%) was not rare. The prognosis of LC was very poor, 76.2% of patients (32/42) died during the follow-up, and the median survival time was 7.2 months (95% CI, 4.53–9.87 months). No statistical significance was found (P = 0.068 for survival curves) among different types of LC. Conclusion This study was the first large-scale research in regarding to LC of Han Chinese. The commonest clinical presentations were papules and nodules, and the predilection sites were trunk and extremities. Besides, there was the high frequency of LC from AML and MDS in Taiwan. Clinicians should pay more attention to the leukemia patients with extramedullary manifestations due to poor survival outcomes.
"Invasores": Squatters, Informal Cities, and the Co-Optation of the Urban Poor in Latter Twentieth-Century Mexico

Millions of people fled urban and rural poverty in latter twentieth-century Mexico and squatted on marginal urban lands, establishing shantytowns using whatever resources were available to them. Derided as invasores (invaders), squatters faced eviction, surveillance, and repression, but for many, the outcome was regularization—a process that saw the government provide them land titles. Built on ministerial studies, intelligence reports, newspaper coverage, and secondary analyses, this article contends that the Mexican federal government confronted the crises of land invasions and urban informality by distributing patronage and legalizing the land claims of squatters in ways that subordinated them politically and reduced the threats they posed to national stability. Empirical studies from Acapulco and Chihuahua in the 1960s and 70s and an assessment of federal policy demonstrate how land invasions and the rise of informal cities in the latter century compelled authorities to use land tenure regularization as a means to establish patronage networks, demobilize political alternatives, and, ultimately, perpetuate the status quo.
Quantitative wood–adhesive penetration with X-ray computed tomography

Abstract Micro X-ray computed tomography (XCT) was used to analyze the 3D adhesive penetration behavior of different wood–adhesive bondlines. Three adhesives, a phenol formaldehyde (PF), a polymeric diphenylmethane diisocyanate (pMDI), and a hybrid polyvinyl acetate (PVA), all tagged with iodine for enhanced X-ray attenuation, were used to prepare single-bondline laminates in two softwoods, Douglas-fir and loblolly pine, and one hardwood, a hybrid polar. Adhesive penetration depth was measured with two separate calculations, and results were compared with 2D fluorescent micrographs. A total of 54 XCT scans were collected, representing six replicates of each treatment type; each replicate, however, consisted of approximately 1500 individual, cross-section slices stacked along the specimen length. As these adhesives were highly modified, the presented results do not indicate typical behavior for their broader adhesive classes. Still, clear penetration differences were observed between each adhesive type, and between wood species bonded with both the PF and pMDI adhesives. Furthermore, penetration results depended on the calculation method used. Two adhesive types with noticeably different resin distributions in the cured bondline, showed relatively similar penetration depths when calculated with a traditional effective penetration equation. However, when the same data was calculated with a weighted penetration calculation, which accounts for both adhesive area and depth, the results appeared to better represent the different distributions depicted in the photomicrographs and tomograms. Additionally, individual replicate comparisons showed variation due to specimen anatomy, not easily observed or interpreted from 2D images. Finally, 3D views of segmented 3D adhesive phases offered unique, in-situ views of the cured adhesive structures. In particular, voids formed by CO 2 bubbles generated during pMDI cure were clearly visible in penetrated columns of the solidified adhesive.
Clinical Outcomes of Patients With Newly Diagnosed Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in a County Hospital System.

Abstract Background Major advances in the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) over the past decade have resulted in 5-year overall survival (OS) rates of 80% in mature B cell ALL, 50% in precursor B cell ALL, 50% to 60% in T cell ALL, and 60% to 70% in Philadelphia chromosome–positive (Ph+) ALL, as reported in studies from large, specialized centers. However, many patients treated in the community have limited access to novel therapies and stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Patients and Methods The purpose of this retrospective cohort analysis was to evaluate the clinical outcomes of patients ≥ 16 years with newly diagnosed ALL treated from October 2007 to June 2019 in the Harris County Health System, Houston, TX. Results One hundred forty-six patients were included, with newly diagnosed pre-B-ALL (n = 127), T-ALL (n = 18), and chronic myeloid leukemia and/or lymphoid blast crisis (n = 1). Median age was 35 years (16-82) at diagnosis, and 81(55%) were male. The majority of patients with pre-B ALL identified as Hispanic (n = 118, or 92%). Ninety-eight (67%) of patients were uninsured or indigent, receiving care under the county's financial assistance programs. Hyper-CVAD-based induction chemotherapy was administered in 134 (92%) of patients, while 9 (6%) were treated on different protocols, and 3 (2%) were not treated due to early death, or patient refusal. Imatinib was the most common TKI used in 17 of 30 or 57% of patients with Ph+ disease. Out of 137 evaluable for response patients, 117 (85%) achieved complete remission (CR + CRi), 19 (14%) had refractory disease, and 1 (1%) died within 4 weeks of diagnosis. Median follow-up time was 50 months (1.5-135). For the entire study cohort, the median duration of CR/CRi was 15.4 months. Out of 62 patients who were eligible for consolidative HSCT at first CR, 52 (89%) did not receive it, with lack of insurance being the most common reason (n = 29, or 56%). Barriers to utilization of novel therapies such as blinatumomab or CAR-T were also observed. Patient-caused delays in administration of chemotherapy and treatment interruptions of at least 30 days were seen in 31(23%) patients. At 1, 2, and 5 years, relapse rates were 37%, 56%, and 70%. Recurrent and/or refractory disease was the cause of death in most patients (n = 69 [85%]). Five-year EFS and OS rates were 22% and 38% for patients with pre-B ALL, 24% and 44% for patients with T ALL, and 13% and 27% for patients with Ph+ ALL. Median OS was significantly increased (not reached [NR] vs. 24 months; P = .00088) in patients with an indication for HSCT in first CR due to high-risk features who underwent HSCT, versus those who did not. Conclusion Addressing barriers raised by socioeconomic disparities, increasing access to effective therapies, and including patients with ALL treated in the community in clinical trials may improve survival for underserved populations.
Using micro pillar array columns (μPAC) for the analysis of permethylated glycans

Glycosylation is a complex and common post-translational modification of proteins. To study glycosylation, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) is often used to profile and structurally characterize the glycans in biological systems. While bed packed reverse phase columns are frequently utilized for the separation of permethylated glycans, the use of newly commercialized micro array pillar nanoLC columns (μPAC) have not been demonstrated previously. Owing to its advantages such as low back pressure, reproducibility, and durability, we have investigated the viability of the μPAC for the analysis of permethylated glycans. In this work, we demonstrate the online purification ability of μPAC trapping column compared against PepMap trapping column. We also found that the 50 cm μPAC can be used for the analysis of both permethylated N- and O-glycans. The use of 50 cm μPAC was compared against the previous method. The use of 200 cm μPAC was also investigated for the permethylated glycan analysis. 200 cm μPAC demonstrated efficient separation of oligomannose glycan isomers as well as other complex glycans.
The Anatomy of China's Export Growth

Decomposing China's real export growth, of over 500 percent since 1992, reveals a number of interesting findings. First, China's export structure changed dramatically, with growing export shares in electronics and machinery and a decline in agriculture and apparel. Second, despite the shift into these more sophisticated products, the skill content of China's manufacturing exports remained unchanged, once processing trade is excluded. Third, export growth was accompanied by increasing specialization and was mainly accounted for by high export growth of existing products (the intensive margin) rather than in new varieties (the extensive margin). Fourth, consistent with an increased world supply of existing varieties, China's export prices to the United States fell by an average of 1.5 percent per year between 1997 and 2005, while export prices of these products from the rest of the world to the United States increased by 0.4 percent annually over the same period.
Abstract 855: Is shift-work associated with increased risk of gastric cancer? A meta-analysis

Introduction: Gastric cancer remains one of the most common cancers worldwide. Shift-work involving circadian disruption was designated as a probable cause of cancer by The International Agency for Research on Cancer. Several studies have investigated the impact of shift work on gastric cancer, however, most of them are with small sample size. Thus, this meta-analysis was conducted. Method: A comprehensive literature search on PubMed was conducted to identify all relevant studies published prior to September 2020 according to the established inclusion criteria. The quality assessment was performed by the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). The pooled relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated to estimate the association between the shift-work and gastric cancer risk. A random-effect or fixed-effect model was used to calculate the pooled RR, based on heterogeneity significance. Subgroup analysis was performed based on rotating-shift versus permanent-shift. Sensitivity analysis and publication bias detection were also performed. All statistical analyses were performed using RevMan software (version 5.3; Cochrane library) and STATA 12.0 statistical software (Stata Corp., College Station, TX), and all P values were two-tailed, the test level was 0.05. Result: 51 articles were obtained from the database search, and 7 articles obtained from other sources. 4 articles involving 36,574 participants were included. All studies were considered moderate to high quality. A non-statistically significant association between shift-work and increased gastric cancer risk was found (RR 1.15, 95%CI: 0.95, 1.37, P=0.14, I2=0%). In the subgroup analysis, neither rotating-shift (RR 1.24, 95%CI: 0.92, 1.67, P=0.16, I2=0%) nor permanent-shift (RR 1.13, 95%CI: 1.10, 0.90, P=0.12, I2=0%) were found to be associated with an increased risk of gastric cancer. Sensitivity analysis by changing fixed-effect models to random-effect models and by omitting each study at a time confirmed the stability of the result. Funnel plot, Egger9s test (t=0.70, P=0.554), and Begg9s test (z=0.68, P=0.497) found no publication bias of analysis. Conclusion: The current meta-analysis demonstrates that shift-work is not associated with increased gastric cancer risk. However, only four studies were included. More original studies are needed to further explore shift-work impacts on gastric cancer risk. Citation Format: Chenyu Sun, Ce Cheng, Chandur Bhan, Mubashir Ayaz Ahmed, Nimararta Bheesham, Jannell F. Lising. Is shift-work associated with increased risk of gastric cancer? A meta-analysis [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2021; 2021 Apr 10-15 and May 17-21. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2021;81(13_Suppl):Abstract nr 855.
The Greening of the Information Systems Curriculum

The purpose of this study is related to Green Information Technology (IT), Green Computing, and/or Sustainability (GITS) curriculum initiatives in institutions of higher education in the US and abroad. The purpose of this study is threefold; 1) to evaluate whether GITS academic programs have been initiated in higher educational organizations; 2) to analyze if GITS programs and/or courses are currently in place; and 3) to investigate the conceptual framework of GITS across campuses.
Successful resection of primary suprapapillary carcinoma of duodenum.

Summary (1)The pathology, symptomatology and radiographic findings in primary carcinoma of the duodenum have been presented. (2)The early diagnosis of carcinoma of the duodenum may now be rewarded with successful resection in view of marked advances in surgical technique for lesions in this region. (3)The details of a successfully resected case of primary duodenal carcinoma are incorporated in the body of this report.
Mechanisms by which cytokines signal the brain.

Publisher Summary Several different mechanisms exist for cytokines to signal the brain. The relevance of mechanisms depends on the cytokine and the response under consideration. The existing evidence almost exclusively relates to effects of interleukin-1 (IL-1). This is largely because the brain effects of IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and other cytokines are weaker and have been harder to demonstrate than those of IL-1. There are five principal known mechanisms for cytokine signaling of the brain. First, cytokines can be transported into the brain to a limited extent using selective uptake systems (transporters) that bypass the blood–brain barrier. Second, cytokines can act on brain tissue at sites where the blood–brain barrier is weak or nonexistent. Third, cytokines may act directly or indirectly on peripheral nerves that send afferent signals to the brain. Fourth, cytokines can act on peripheral tissues inducing the synthesis of molecules whose ability to penetrate the brain is not limited by the barrier. A major target appears to be endothelial cells that bear receptors for IL-1. Fifth, cytokines can be synthesized by immune cells that infiltrate the brain. Despite the evidence from clinical studies of the effects of the interferons, the responses to interferons in animals have proven to be inconsistent and/or difficult to study.