cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Targeting of P-Element Reporters to Heterochromatic Domains by Transposable Element 1360 in Drosophila melanogaster

Heterochromatin is a common DNA packaging form employed by eukaryotes to constitutively silence transposable elements. Determining which sequences to package as heterochromatin is vital for an organism. Here, we use Drosophila melanogaster to study heterochromatin formation, exploiting position-effect variegation, a process whereby a transgene is silenced stochastically if inserted in proximity to heterochromatin, leading to a variegating phenotype. Previous studies identified the transposable element 1360 as a target for heterochromatin formation. We use transgene reporters with either one or four copies of 1360 to determine if increasing local repeat density can alter the fraction of the genome supporting heterochromatin formation. We find that including 1360 in the reporter increases the frequency with which variegating phenotypes are observed. This increase is due to a greater recovery of insertions at the telomere-associated sequences (∼50% of variegating inserts). In contrast to variegating insertions elsewhere, the phenotype of telomere-associated sequence insertions is largely independent of the presence of 1360 in the reporter. We find that variegating and fully expressed transgenes are located in different types of chromatin and that variegating reporters in the telomere-associated sequences differ from those in pericentric heterochromatin. Indeed, chromatin marks at the transgene insertion site can be used to predict the eye phenotype. Our analysis reveals that increasing the local repeat density (via the transgene reporter) does not enlarge the fraction of the genome supporting heterochromatin formation. Rather, additional copies of 1360 appear to target the reporter to the telomere-associated sequences with greater efficiency, thus leading to an increased recovery of variegating insertions.
Current treatment of hypertension in patients with coronary artery disease recommended by different guidelines

Introduction: It is important to know how to treat hypertension in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). The reason for the review was to update this treatment and to discuss the 2015 American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology/American Society of Hypertension 2015 guidelines of treatment of hypertension in patients with CAD.Areas covered: Studies between 1968 and 2015 were reviewed on treatment of hypertension in patients with CAD using a Medline search, and studies between 1977 and 2015 were reported. Hypertension should be treated with beta blockers and ACE inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs). Long-acting nitrates are effective antianginal and anti-ischemic drugs. Calcium-channel blockers (CCBs) may be added if angina persists despite beta blockers and long-acting nitrates. The 2015 guidelines recommend that the blood pressure should be < 140/90 mm Hg in patients aged ≤ 80 years and the systolic blood pressure < 150 mm Hg if they are ≥ 80 years.Expert opinion: Hypert...
Modeling and Control of a Recoverable Balloon System for Launch of Small Payloads to Low Earth Orbit

This paper presents system modeling and simulation results of a balloon system for the purpose of launching small payloads into low earth orbit using rockets . The system uses a balloon attached to a platform containing a rocket capable of maneuvering b y an actuation device relative to the platform . The balloon propels the system into the upper atmosphere where the rocket is launched and a parachute is employed to retrieve the system after launch to be reused for other missions . This paper focuses on dev eloping a “systems” based model including the rocket launch system (a DC -motor actuation system is assumed for pointing of the rocket) and the platform where the rocket is mounted . A linear state -space model is developed using Lagrange’s equations . The sta te -space model is non dimensionalized by defining characteristic parameters to quantify interaction effects of the motor -platform system a nd power requirements using non dimensional parameter analysis . Two control laws are implemented on the system model inc luding PID control and dynamic inversion . Simulation results indicate both control law algorithms provide sufficient tracking control for the rocket maneuver module . However, power requirements for an optimal system confi guration based on open -loop non dime nsional analysis are minimal for the dynamic inversion Control closed -law system.
Research on Optimization of Scheduled Transit Train Operating Plan

Optimization of the scheduled transit train operating plan is investigated.By using the node partition method,the freight station nodes are transformed into a small-scale sub-network consisting of origin destination arcs and delay arcs,thus forming a transport network of scheduled transit trains and depicting the whole process of traffic flow explicitly.So optimization of the scheduled transit train operating plan is transformed into design of a network with limitation of conjunct arcs.Taking into consideration the generalized costs of freight transport,the optimization model of the scheduled transit train operating plan is established.The model is a linear integer programming model,which covers the transit plan and makeup plan.The model is solved by Lingo 10.0.The numerical example demonstrates the feasibility of the model and algorithm.
Evaluation on effect of Measles supplementary immunization activities in Gansu province in 2010

Objective To summarize the strenghtened immune activity in 2010 about Measles vaccine,Live(MV).Methods The data in reported forms from MV streghtened immunization in Gansu province were collected,which were analysed in epidemiology by the descriptive statistical method.Results The total amount of people in herd immunization of MV streghtened immunization is 1 272 003,and both of the reported vaccine inoculation rate and rapid assessment inoculation rate are more than 95%.The serum positive rate was increased to 97.62% after strengthened vaccination from 90.34% before the vaccination and the success rate is 99.09%.Conclusion The incidence of measles was decreased obviously after MV strengthened vaccination which has achieved the expected result.
Selection,Breeding and Cultivation of Super-high Yield Rice Variety Jinxing No.4

Jinxing No.4 with super-high yield was bred (341-2×Zhonghua No.8) by Tianjin Rice Research Institute in 1994. Jinxing No.4′s traits:170 days of developing period, and half loose dig spike type, stable yield, good resistance, and good quality. Jinxing No.4 was tested in variety comparision from 1995 to 1996, and in Tianjin regional and production test from 1999 to 2001, and was planted for demonstration. The result showed: Jinxing No.4 had over 600 kg/667m2, and up to 749 kg/667m2 of the highest yield. Jinxing No.4 is suited to be planted as one-season rice in Tianjin, Beijing and Tangshan rice region, and as wheat batch rice in the south of Hebei, Henan and Shandong.
L’informatique au service de la qualité des prescriptions de produits sanguins labiles

Resume La prescription des produits sanguins labiles est sans doute l’etape la plus importante du processus transfusionnel. Differents moyens ont ete utilises pour modifier les pratiques des cliniciens avec des resultats limites. L’informatisation de la prescription des produits sanguins labiles associee a un systeme d’aide a la decision a montre son interet en ameliorant la qualite des prescriptions en termes de lisibilite et d’exhaustivite. De plus, l’informatisation de la prescription des produits sanguins permet de modifier les pratiques medicales et de reduire le nombre de prescriptions inappropriees. Cependant, certains logiciels avec des interfaces inadaptees peuvent etre difficilement utilisables et responsables d’erreurs de prescriptions. L’evaluation de ces systemes doit guider les evolutions futures pour ameliorer la securite des patients.
A constructive version of the Sylvester–Gallai theorem

The Sylvester–Gallai Theorem, stated as a problem by James Joseph Sylvester in 1893, asserts that for any finite, noncollinear set of points on a plane, there exists a line passing through exactly two points of the set. First, it is shown that for the real plane \({{\mathbb{R}^{2}}}\) the theorem is constructively invalid. Then, a well-known classical proof is examined from a constructive standpoint, locating the nonconstructivities. Finally, a constructive version of the theorem is established for the plane \({{\mathbb{R}^{2}}}\); this reveals the hidden constructive content of the classical theorem. The constructive methods used are those proposed by Errett Bishop.
The Effect of a Sport Stacking Intervention on Handwriting with Second Grade Students.

The present study examined the impact a 14-week sport stacking (cup stacking) exercise intervention would have on children’s handwriting quality and speed. Eighty-three second graders were randomly assigned to either an experimental or a control group. The experimental group (n = 42) participated in a 15-min session of sport stacking activities every school day for 14 weeks, and the control group (n = 41) experienced other supervised physical activities using the same time interval and duration. The dependent variables, handwriting speed and accuracy, were measured pre- and postintervention. Results showed a significant test effect, F(1, 81) = 19.1, p = .001, with all students in both groups increasing handwriting speed posttest. Moreover, a marginal interaction between group and test emerged, F(1, 81) = 3.1, p = .08, suggesting a tendency that the experimental group had a greater improvement in writing speed than the control group. No difference was found in handwriting accuracy. The results were not conclusive, and further investigations are recommended to test the potential effect of sport stacking activities on enhancement of perceptual-motor function, specifically handwriting skill for school children.
Integration of Biological Control into Pest Management Systems

In some instances, biological control programs occur in areas where little or no pest control is attempted, such as forests, rangeland, or aquatic areas. In other instances, there may be only one important pest as is the case for many insect pests of woody landscape plants. Biological control programs conducted against pests in such circumstances can stand alone (Huffaker 1985); because no broader system of pest management exists, there is little or no need to harmonize other pest control activities with the biological control program.
Acquisition of partial grain orientation information using optical microscopy

Optical microscopy (OM) is often the first technique used to characterize surfaces of materials because of its simplicity and low cost. However, the information obtained by OM is usually limited to the geometry and spatial distribution of microstructural features. We present an advanced OM technique to perform quantitative microstructure analysis of polycrystalline metals and to assess partial grain orientation information from measurements of reflectance over a range of incident light directions. Our technique relies on the collection of a series of optical micrographs under controlled illumination conditions. We find a marked direction-dependence of reflectance and ascribe it to sub-micron facets on the surfaces of individual grains. These surface facets are, in turn, correlated to grain orientation. We automate our technique via digital processing and numerical analysis of micrographs, enabling it to generate a wealth of microstructure data while remaining simple to use and inexpensive to implement.
Ground Squirrel Shooting and Potential Lead Exposure in Breeding Avian Scavengers

Recreational ground squirrel shooting is a popular activity throughout the western United States and serves as a tool for managing ground squirrel populations in agricultural regions. Belding's ground squirrels (Spermophilus beldingi) are routinely shot in California, Nevada, and Oregon across habitats that overlap with breeding avian scavengers. Ground squirrels shot with lead (Pb)-based bullets may pose a risk to avian scavengers if they consume carcasses containing Pb fragments. To assess the potential risk to breeding avian scavengers we developed a model to estimate the number, mass, and distribution of Pb fragments in shot ground squirrels using radiographic images. Eighty percent of shot carcasses contained detectible Pb fragments with an average of 38.6 mg of Pb fragments. Seven percent of all carcasses contained Pb fragment masses exceeding a lethal dose for a model raptor nestling (e.g. American kestrel Falco sparverius). Bullet type did not influence the number of fragments in shot ground squirrels, but did influence the mass of fragments retained. Belding's ground squirrels shot with .17 Super Mag and unknown ammunition types contained over 28 and 17 times more mass of Pb fragments than those shot with .22 solid and .22 hollow point bullets, respectively. Ground squirrel body mass was positively correlated with both the number and mass of Pb fragments in carcasses, increasing on average by 76% and 56% respectively across the range of carcass masses. Although the mass of Pb retained in ground squirrel carcasses was small relative to the original bullet mass, avian scavenger nestlings that frequently consume shot ground squirrels may be at risk for Pb-induced effects (e.g., physiology, growth, or survival). Using modeling efforts we found that if nestling golden eagles (Aquila chrysaetos), red-tailed hawks (Buteo jamaicensis), and Swainson's hawks (B. swainsoni) consumed shot ground squirrels proportionately to the nestling's mass, energy needs, and diet, 100% of the nestling period would exceed a 50% reduction in delta-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase production threshold, the last 13-27% of the nestling stage would exceed a reduced growth rate threshold, but no nestlings would be expected to exceed a level of Pb ingestion that would be lethal.
Operative fixation of rib fractures after blunt trauma: A practice management guideline from the Eastern Association for the Surgery of Trauma

BACKGROUNDRib fractures are identified in 10% of all injury victims and are associated with significant morbidity (33%) and mortality (12%). Significant progress has been made in the management of rib fractures over the past few decades, including operative reduction and internal fixation (rib ORIF)
East-West Differences in Gender-Role Orientation and Entrepreneurial Self-efficacy: A Proposed Study

Studies over the past decade suggest a persistent gap between men and women in their level of entrepreneurial activity (Minniti, Arenius and Langowitz 2005), in entrepreneurial orientation and propensity (Langowitz and Minniti 2007; Mueller 2004), as well as in the motivation, desire, and intention to become entrepreneurs (Minniti and Nardone 2007). Some researchers have attributed this “gender gap” to differences in how men and women perceive the environment for entrepreneurship and how they perceive their ability to succeed (Langowitz and Minniti 2007).
Green for God: Religion and Environmentalism by Cohort and Time:

Previous research demonstrates that religion plays a significant role in understanding attitudes and behavior regarding the environment. In addition, studies also demonstrate value change across co...
Hypogene Caves of the Central Appalachian Shenandoah Valley in Virginia

Several caves in the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia show evidence for early hypogenic conduit development with later-enhanced solution under partly confined phreatic conditions guided by geologic structures. Many (but not all) of these caves have been subsequently invaded by surface waters as a result of erosion and exhumation. Those not so affected are relict phreatic caves, bearing no relation to modern drainage patterns. Field and petrographic evidence shows that carbonate rocks hosting certain relict phreatic caves were dolomitized and/or silicified by early hydrothermal fluid migration in zones that served to locally enhance rock porosity, thus providing preferential pathways for later solution by groundwater flow, and making the surrounding bedrock more resistant to surficial weathering to result in caves that reside within isolated hills on the land surface. Features suggesting that deep phreatic processes dominated the development of these relict caves include (1) cave passage morphologies indicative of ascending fluids, (2) cave plans of irregular pattern, reflecting early maze or anastomosing development, (3) a general lack of cave breakdown and cave streams or cave stream deposits, and (4) calcite wall and pool coatings within isolated caves intersecting the local water table, and within unroofed caves at topographic locations elevated well above the lo﻿cal base level. Episodes of deep karstification were likely separated by long periods of geologic time, encompassing multiple phases of sedimentary fill and excavation within caves, and reflect a complex history of deep fluid migration that set the stage for later shallow speleogenesis that continues today.
In-memory flow-based stochastic computing on memristor crossbars using bit-vector stochastic streams

Nanoscale memristor crossbars provide a natural fabric for in-memory computing and have recently been shown to efficiently perform exact logical operations by exploiting the flow of current through crossbar interconnects. In this paper, we extend the flow-based crossbar computing approach to approximate stochastic computing. First, we show that the natural flow of current through probabilistically-switching memristive nano-switches in crossbars can be used to perform approximate stochastic computing. Second, we demonstrate that optimizing the approximate stochastic computations in terms of the number of required random bits leads to stochastic computing using bit-vector stochastic streams of varying bit-widths — a hybrid of the traditional full-width bit-vector computing approach and the traditional bit-stream stochastic computing methodology. This hybrid approach based on bit-vector stochastic streams of different bit-widths can be efficiently implemented using an in-memory nanoscale memristive crossbar computing framework.
Threshold Switching: A Discussion of Thermal and Electronic Issues

Papers of joint authorship ordinarly result from shared research, but the present case is an exception. Shared principles are its basis, of course, but it represents above all a search for common ground, approached from opposite sides of the interpretational spectrum. The opposite sides are represented by thermal and non-thermal (electronic) models of threshold switching, an issue which has been widely (and, at times, hotly) debated by protagonists at international conferences and in the literature. In the course of such debates, misunderstandings abound, and some of the sweetest victories are scored against “opposing” models not actually advanced by the other party. In the present didactic context, an attempt at clarification therefore seems particularly appropriate. Once found, the common ground must serve at the starting point for more dis-- criminating experimentation. Inasmuch as our agreement falls short of total unanimity, we each take our cue from the clergyman who ended a bitter dispute with a colleague, saying: “It is clear that we cannot settle this issue, and we must therefore agree to disagree you will have to continue to serve the Lord in your way, and I shall continue to serve Him in His.”
Dynamic preferential allocation to arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi explains fungal succession and coexistence

Evidence accumulates about the role of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi in shaping plant communities, but little is known about the factors determining the biomass and coexistence of several types of AM fungi in a plant community. Here, using a consumer-resource framework that treats the relationship between plants and fungi as simultaneous, reciprocal exploitation, we investigated what patterns of dynamic preferential plant carbon allocation to empirically-defined fungal types (on-going partner choice) would be optimal for plants, and how these patterns depend on successional dynamics. We found that ruderal AM fungi can dominate under low steady-state nutrient availability, and competitor AM fungi can dominate at higher steady-state nutrient availability; these are conditions characteristic of early and late succession, respectively. We also found that dynamic preferential allocation alone can maintain a diversity of mutualists, suggesting that on-going partner choice is a new coexistence mechanism for mutualists. Our model can therefore explain both mutualist coexistence and successional strategy, providing a powerful tool to derive testable predictions.
Moving Beyond Charity to Philanthropy? The Case of Charitable Giving in Thailand

This paper outlines the characteristics of the philanthropic sector in Thailand today. It first describes the local concept of giving, which is intricately linked to Theravada Buddhism. Then, the paper provides examples of traditional forms of philanthropic institutions that are more closely associated with charity than philanthropy, followed by examples of innovative forms of philanthropic efforts. Given the trajectory of economic development in Thailand, opportunities to engage broader public interest in philanthropy exist and in order to do so, there is need for the sector in general to build stronger evidence of how public giving is translated into social impact. The main challenge to the Thai philanthropic sector is the limited attention to accountability and transparency, as philanthropic entities generally have not developed robust monitoring and evaluation frameworks that target outcomes. This can be turned into an opportunity to address the general lack of focus on strategy development, weak monitoring systems, and a limited reporting of outcomes.
Intrinsic Properties of Polyelectrolyte Multilayer Membranes: Erasing the Memory of the Interface.

Polyelectrolyte multilayers (PEMUs) are ultrathin membranes made by alternating adsorption of oppositely charged polyelectrolytes on substrates. Although PEMUs have shown exceptional selectivity for certain ion-filtering applications, they usually contain an excess of one of the polyelectrolytes due to the history- and condition-dependent mode of PEMU assembly. This excess charge provides fixed sites for ion exchange, enhancing the concentration of oppositely charged ions. Thus, the ion-permselective properties of PEMUs cannot be compared unless they are assembled under identical conditions. This work demonstrates the enhanced permeability of PEMUs as-made from poly(diallyldimethylammonium) (PDADMA), and poly(styrene sulfonate) (PSS) to ferricyanide as an example of an anion. Annealing by NaCl followed by pairing of excess PDADMA with additional PSS produces an almost stoichiometric film that better reflects the intrinsic transport properties of PEMUs. This pairing, observed in real time using electrochem...
Portal Vein Embolization Utilizing N -Butyl Cyanoacrylate for Contralateral Lobe Hypertrophy Prior to Liver Resection: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

The following publication was cited in the published article, but it was not included in the reference list.
Counterpart Models in Facility Location Science and Reserve Selection Science

Five classes of zero–one programming models for discrete facility location problems are compared to counterpart models for the selection of conservation reserves. The basic problem of siting facilities to cover demand for services is analogous to the problem of selecting reserves to support species diversity. The classes of models include the set covering and maximal covering models, as well as models for backup and redundant coverage. Issues of reliability and uncertainty are addressed by chance constrained covering models and maximal expected covering models. Exact and heuristic solution approaches are discussed. Multi-objective and economic issues are considered.
Goshen Points in the Northwestern Plains: New Evidence from Montana

ABSTRACTGoshen projectile points are commonly associated with the regions of eastern Wyoming, western South Dakota, and southeastern Montana; however, they have also been identified as isolates and in a few sites in northern Colorado and the Canadian Prairie Provinces. This paper shares an occurrence of an atypical Goshen point made on a flake from southwestern Montana.
Global & Community Health: Brief in-hospital cognitive screening anticipates complex admissions and may detect dementia.

OBJECTIVE With the long-term goal of improving community health by screening for dementia, we tested the utility of integrating the Six-Item Screener (SIS) into our emergency department neurology consultations. METHODS In this cross-sectional observational study, we measured SIS performance within 24 hours of hospital arrival in 100 consecutive English-speaking patients aged ≥45 years. Performance was compared to patient age, previously charted cognitive impairment, and proxies for in-hospital complexity: whether or not a patient was admitted to the hospital and the number of medical studies ordered. RESULTS Those with poor SIS performance were older (p = 0.02) and more likely to have previously charted cognitive impairment (p < 0.01; sensitivity 86%, specificity 77%). Poor performers were more likely to be admitted to the hospital (p = 0.04; odds ratio 3.6) and were subjected to more tests once admitted (p < 0.01), relationships that persisted after accounting for age and history of cognitive impairment. CONCLUSIONS Poor performance on the SIS was associated with previously charted cognitive impairment, justifying future study of its ability to detect unrecognized dementia cases. Until then, its ability to inexpensively anticipate medically complex hospital admissions motivates broader emergency department use of the SIS.
Effects of Auditory Training and Remote Microphone Technology on the Behavioral Performance of Children and Young Adults Who Have Autism Spectrum Disorder

Individuals who have a normal pure-tone audiogram but are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often exhibit poorer speech recognition and auditory processing when compared with neurotypical peers with normal pure-tone audiograms. The purpose of this study was to determine the efficacy and effectiveness of a 12-week auditory processing training (APT) program that was designed to address the deleterious effects of background noise and auditory processing deficits that are common among individuals diagnosed with ASD. A repeated measures design was used. The sample consisted of 15 high-functioning children and young adults who had a formal diagnosis of ASD and who were recruited from local clinics and school districts. Participants completed the 12-week APT program consisting of computerized dichotic training, one-on-one therapist-directed auditory training, and the use of remote microphone (RM) technology at home and in the classroom. Participants completed a comprehensive test battery to assess general auditory processing skills, speech recognition in noise, acceptance of background noise, spatial processing, binaural integration abilities, self-perceived difficulties, and observed behaviors. Testing was conducted before (n = 15), immediately after (n = 15), and 12 weeks after (n = 7) the completion of the APT program. Paired t-tests, repeated measures analysis of variance, or nonparametric tests were used to analyze the data. On average, the APT program significantly enhanced general auditory processing abilities, including binaural integration and subjective listening abilities in the classroom. When the RM was used, significantly improved speech recognition and improved acceptance of background noise was measured relative to a condition with no technology. Following the APT program, the participants exhibited the greatest improvements in testing that required binaural integration and auditory working memory. The use of the RM technology was able to address the deleterious effects of noise on speech recognition in noise and acceptance of noise levels.
Phase Transitions: The Giant Cluster

A problem of great theoretical interest in thermodynamics is the possibility of phase transitions. Many dynamical systems exhibit behavior that is remarkably similar to phase transitions. Polymer gelation, shattering in fragmentation, the spread of epidemics, and the emergence of long-range connectivity in artificial and neural networks are examples of the emergence of a giant coherent structure, a behavior that is often discussed qualitatively in the language of phase transitions. If generic population obey thermodynamics, do they also undergo phase transitions? The answer is, yes. As in molecular thermodynamics, phase splitting in the cluster ensemble is associated with the violation of the stability conditions that guarantee the existence of a maximum in the microcanonical weight that defines the most probable distribution. In this chapter we formalize the stability conditions that ensure the existence of the most probable distribution and identify the giant cluster as a phase that is distinct from the sol, a stable population of dispersed clusters. We discuss two mathematical models that give rise to a giant cluster and solve them analytically. A kinetic model of gelation with a closer connection to a physical system of reacting polymers will be discussed in Chap. 9.
Becoming Rationalist: Biological Philosophy, History of the Reflex Concept, and the Uses of Water

This chapter puts Canguilhem into discussion with Bachelard and Foucault through the former’s poetics of water and the latter’s discussion of water’s use in psychiatry. I read Canguilhem’s history of the reflex concept as a critical extension of Bachelard’s efforts at “becoming rationalist” and culmination of his own biological philosophy. Canguilhem, I argue, treats the concept as an historical a priori in seeking to extend a convergence between the sciences and workers’ resistance to psychological techniques of control. And this fits with his critique of psychology and defense of Pinel’s therapies for madness. On this basis, I argue that Foucault’s History of Madness resists Bachelard and Canguilhem by reflexively criticizing their writings to show the historical contingency of categories of work, alienation, and Man.
Disability-Specific Atlases of Gray Matter Loss in Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (P3.347)

Objective: To understand the relationship between localized gray matter atrophy and clinical disability in multiple sclerosis (MS). Background: MS is characterized by progressive gray matter (GM) atrophy that strongly correlates with clinical disability, however the relationship between localized gray matter atrophy and specific disabilities remains unclear. Design/Methods: Clinical evaluations and magnetic resonance images (MRI) were acquired from 133 female subjects with relapsing-remitting MS. MR images were analyzed using voxel-based morphometry (VBM) and a voxel-wise regression analysis was used to determine if localized gray matter loss was associated with specific clinical deficits. Results: Worse performance on the Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test (PASAT) correlated with GM volume loss in the auditory cortex and in Brodmann area 6, which has been associated with numerical, verbal, and spatial tasks. Worse performance on the 9-hole peg test (9HPT) correlated with GM volume loss in Brodmann area 44 (Broca area), which although best known for the production of speech (verbal communication), has also been shown to be involved in specific, coherent activation of the motor system, particularly hand and arm motion (gestural communication). Finally, disability on the bowel and bladder system subscale of the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) correlated with voxelwise GM loss in the right paracentral lobulus, a region that receives somatosensory input from the genital area and has been associated with defecation and micturition. Conclusions: These data indicate that specific disabilities in MS are associated with voxelwise gray matter loss in distinct, clinically eloquent locations in a biology-driven, rather than a hypothesis-driven, approach. This approach may be used to develop disability-specific biomarkers for use in future clinical trials of neuroprotective treatments in MS. Study Supported by: This work was generously supported by the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation [Grant #20130231], the National Institutes of Health [RO1NS051591 (RRV)], and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society [RG3915 (RRV)]. The authors are grateful for the generous support from the Brain Mapping Medical Research Organization, Brain Mapping Support Foundation, Pierson-Lovelace Foundation, The Ahmanson Foundation, Capital Group Companies Charitable Foundation, William M. and Linda R. Dietel Philanthropic Fund, and Northstar Fund. Research reported in this publication was also partially supported by the National Center for Research Resources and by the Office of the Director of the National Institutes of Health under award numbers C06RR012169, C06RR015431 and S10OD011939. Disclosure: Dr. MacKenzie-Graham has nothing to disclose. Dr. Kurth has nothing to disclose. Dr. Itoh has nothing to disclose. Dr. Wang has nothing to disclose. Dr. Montag has nothing to disclose. Dr. Elashoff has nothing to disclose. Dr. Voskuhl has nothing to disclose.
Bone strength testing in rodents

Abstract Rodent models are widely used to assess the consequences of genetic, dietary, pharmacologic, and mechanical perturbations on the skeleton. Since one of the main functions of bone is to maintain body structure and permit locomotion, understanding how those perturbations affect the mechanical behavior of bone is crucial. While the diminutive size of rodents presents technical challenges when assessing mechanical properties of bone compared with larger animal models, decades of developing and validating appropriate mechanical testing techniques now allow scientists to assess rodent cortical or trabecular bone strengths at multiple length scales: whole bone, micron, and nanometer levels. This chapter provides an overview of the most common techniques used to assess the biomechanical properties of bone at different length scales in rodent models, including best practices and guidelines for interpretation of findings.
Thoracic surgery program websites: Bridging the content gap for improved applicant recruitment.

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the website content of all US thoracic training programs, assessing the available content to identify areas for improvement. METHODS A total of 98 accredited thoracic surgery fellowship and integrated residency programs were evaluated for the presence of 25 important online content items. Two authors assessed each website and social media page individually, and a third author resolved <4% of the initial data disagreement. The total number of alumni represented for each program was also recorded, including a breakdown of what the alumni pursued. RESULTS Of the 98 accredited programs, 91 (92.9%) had a website. All 26 integrated residencies had a website, compared with 65 of 72 fellowships (90.3%). The 91 websites contained a mean of 8.2 ± 3.0 out of the 25 online content variables evaluated (33.0%), with rotation information (n = 69; 75.8%), application information (n = 65; 71.4%), program coordinator contact (n = 60; 65.9%), hospital affiliation (n = 49; 53.8%), number of positions per year (n = 49; 53.8%), and faculty listing (n = 46; 50.5%) found on ≥50% of the program websites. Areas lacking were retention rate (0% reported), social media links (n = 3; 3.3%), written and oral exam pass rates (both n = 5; 5.5%), graduate placement (n = 11; 12%), call duties (n = 12; 13.2%), cases performed (n = 17; 18.7%), and salary/benefits (n = 25; 27.5%). CONCLUSIONS This study identifies gaps in content for prospective thoracic surgery applicants. Important information such as retention rate, social media links, exam pass rates, outcomes of graduates, call duties, cases performed, and salary/benefits were lacking in program websites. The improvement of websites may represent a straightforward and low-cost intervention that programs can undertake to enhance the recruitment of prospective applicants.
Targeting uncoupling of copy number and gene expression in cancers

Abstract The high degree of aneuploidy in cancer is likely tolerated via extensive uncoupling of copy number (CN) and mRNA expression (UCNE) of deleterious genes located in copy number aberrations (CNAs). To test the extent and role of UCNE in cancer, we performed integrative analysis of multiomics data across The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), encompassing ∼ 5000 individual tumors. We found many genes having UCNE, the degree of which are associated with increased oncogenic signaling, proliferation and immune-suppression. The occurrence of UCNE appears to be orchestrated by complex epigenetic and regulatory changes, with transcription factors (TFs) playing a prominent role. To further dissect the regulatory mechanisms, we developed a systems-biological approach to identify candidate TFs, which upon perturbation can offset UCNE and reduce tumor fitness. Applying our approach on TCGA data, we identified 20 putative targets, 45% of which were validated by independent sources. Among them are IRF1, which plays a prominent role in anti-tumor immunity and response to immune checkpoint therapy, ETS1, TRIM21 and GATA3, which are associated with anti-tumor immunity, tumor proliferation and metastasis. Together, our study indicates that UCNE is likely an important mechanism in cancer development that can be exploited therapeutically.
Compressed Sensing Structured Illumination Microscopy

We propose a new framework for super-resolution structured illumination microscopy (SR-SIM) based on compressed sensing (CS). Our framework addresses several key problems in SIM, including long readout time and photobleaching. CS has the potential to eliminate these problems because it allows the reduction of the number of measurements, can record an image faster, and excites fluorochromes with less excitation light. Key contribution of our proposed method is that sampling and down-modulation of an object scene are simultaneously performed. The impact of our contribution is demonstrated by simulation-based experiments involving computer-generated super-resolution microscopy images, considering reductions in both data quality and quantity.
Abrogation of IL-6-mediated JAK/STAT signaling by the cyclopentenone prostaglandin 15-Deoxy-Δ12,14-Prostaglandin J2 in oral squamous carcinoma cells

4403 Antineoplastic effects of cyclopentenone prostaglandins, especially 15-deoxy-Δ12,14-prostaglandin J2 (15d-PGJ2), have been reported in various types of cancer. In oral squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), we recently demonstrated that 15d-PGJ2 induces cell growth inhibition and apoptosis accompanied by downregulation of the oncogenic signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (Stat3) signaling pathway. To investigate the mechanism underlying 15d-PGJ2-mediated repression of Stat3 in oral SCC, we assessed the effects of 15d-PGJ2 on upstream activators of Stat3, including the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and janus kinase (JAK)-mediated signaling pathways. Oral SCC cells were treated with interleukin 6 (IL-6), transforming growth factor alpha (TGF-α), 15d-PGJ2, 9,10-dihydro-15d-PGJ2, a 15d-PGJ2 analog with structural modifications lacking the reactive carbonyl group, or the specific JAK inhibitor AG490. Tyrosine phosphorylation of EGFR, JAKs, and Stat3, were assessed by immunoprecipitation and Western blot analyses. Treatment with 15d-PGJ2 abrogated IL-6-mediated Stat3 activation. In contrast, exogenous treatment with TGF-α reversed the inhibitory effects of 15d-PGJ2 on Stat3 signaling. Importantly, 15d-PGJ2 selectively inhibited constitutive and IL-6-mediated JAK phosphorylation without affecting EGFR activation. Moreover, 9,10-dihydro-15d-PGJ2 failed to inhibit JAK and Stat3 phosphorylation, suggesting that the repression of IL-6 mediated JAK/Stat3 signaling by 15d-PGJ2 requires the reactive α,β-unsaturated carbon within the cyclopentenone ring. Finally, AG490-mediated inhibition of JAK signaling also resulted in significant cell growth inhibition and apoptosis. These findings provide the first evidence for downregulation of IL-6-mediated JAK/Stat3 signaling by cyclopentenone prostaglandin 15d-PGJ2 in cancer. These results further suggest that targeting of JAK signaling may represent a promising therapeutic approach in oral SCC. [Supported by PHS/NIH DE13118, DE12606 and DE014935]
Comparative associations of problematic alcohol and cannabis use with suicidal behavior in U.S. military veterans: A population-based study.

Abstract Alcohol use disorder (AUD) and cannabis use disorder (CUD) are each associated with increased suicidal behavior, but it is unclear how their comorbidity relates to suicide risk. Understanding these associations in U.S. military veterans is especially important, given their heightened risk for suicide, high prevalence of AUD, and increasing access to cannabis. We compared associations of probable AUD, CUD, and AUD/CUD with suicide ideation, plan(s), and attempt(s) in a nationally representative sample of 4,069 veterans surveyed in 2019–2020 as part of the National Health and Resilience in Veterans Study. Among veterans who screened positive for current AUD, 8.7% also screened positive for current CUD. Among veterans who screened positive for current CUD, 33.3% screened positive for current AUD. Current and lifetime positive screens for AUD, CUD, and AUD/CUD were each strongly and independently associated with past-year suicide ideation and lifetime suicide ideation, plan(s), and attempt(s) [odds ratios (ORs) = 1.6–8.7]. Relative to veterans who screened positive for AUD only, veterans who screened positive for AUD/CUD and CUD only had higher odds of past-year suicide ideation (AUD/CUD: OR = 3.3; CUD only: OR = 2.4), lifetime suicide ideation (AUD/CUD: OR = 1.9; CUD only: OR = 2.6) and lifetime suicide plan(s) (AUD/CUD: OR = 1.7; CUD only: OR = 6.1). Collectively, findings suggest that screening positive for CUD might be an especially strong indicator of suicide ideation and planning in veterans with and without AUD, independent of sociodemographic, military, trauma, and other psychiatric factors. These findings underscore the importance of routine screening for CUD in suicide prevention efforts, especially as cannabis becomes more widely available.
Empowering International Trainees to Champion a Global Consortium in Medical Careers and Mentorship

Background Global differences for medical professionals from limited-resource world regions struggle foraccess to diagnostics and implementation of patient care Such differences have direct implications onlearning for doctors-in-training Hypothesis An initiative by/for international trainees from limited-resourcesettings to collaborate with a rich-resource medical center can be designed to enhance clinical competenceand scholarly achievements for careers in medicine Methods Needs Assessment Model/Community CoalitionAction Theory for “Empowerment and Collaboration” In 2019, an Alpha/Pilot of 8 international traineesrotating to a US academic center created a focus group to partner with US and global faculty/post-trainees tochampion a consortium initiative that would empower global trainees in a rich-resource training experience,not otherwise available to them Consortium elements: (1) Curriculum;(2) Scholarly projects;(3) Mentorship(peer-faculty): (4) Reflection;(5) Global sharing Venues: on-site;global conferencing;project meetings;timelines;networking/social media Results Global MS “homes”: Mexico (5), Ecuador (1), Turkey (1) and Thailand (1);global languages English, Spanish, Japanese, Arabic, Turkish and Thai;global faculty: Mexico, Turkey,Venezuela, Thailand Scholarly MS outcomes/1-year: 4 abstracts, 3 manuscripts, 10 oral presentations (2international), 3 posters, 6/8 declared AI careers (2/8, Rheumatology;Pulmonary);1 course scholarship;8 non-trainee global trainees;2 ethics courses Bonus: US and global faculty encountered culturalawareness/opportunities supporting promotion;Consortium global impact of trainees multiple campusesTechSalud, Mexico;US impact of faculty promotion content Discussion International trainees are competent, motivated and can be positioned for a successful career trajectory when engaged in an inclusive peer- driven/faculty-induced mentoring/ resource-rich learning-teaching environment Founding trainees now serveas empowered leaders/peer mentors of their Consortium and created a scholarly momentum with addedtrainees and willing US-global faculty Importantly, this model exchanges cognitive/tangible resources andethical values from the global perspectives of diversity and cross-cultural awareness, critical to patient careand research Moreover in this COVID19 era, all trainees have managed to create and maintain a digital empowerment career consortium, sustainable with increasing global membership and mentorship withproven scholarly outcomes Conclusion This digital global medical trainee-mentor model may be applicable totrainees of all disciplines to serve as a rising platform for inclusion and diversity in medicine that would befeasible regardless of worldly location Longitudinal studies in scholarly outcomes andcompetence/confidence performance tracking with post-trainee positions and their reflections would furtherthe understanding of impact of this program on not only trainee career intentions and successes but expansions on global awareness/perceptions and mentorship roles that would otherwise not occur
Characterizing outdoor infiltration and indoor contribution of PM2.5 with citizen-based low-cost monitoring data.

Abstract Epidemiological research on the adverse health outcomes due to PM2.5 exposure frequently relies on measurements from regulatory air quality monitors to provide ambient exposure estimates, whereas personal PM2.5 exposure may deviate from ambient concentrations due to outdoor infiltration and contributions from indoor sources. Research in quantifying infiltration factors (Finf), the fraction of outdoor PM2.5 that infiltrates indoors, has been historically limited in space and time due to the high costs of monitor deployment and maintenance. Recently, the growth of openly accessible, citizen-based PM2.5 measurements provides an unprecedented opportunity to characterize Finf at large spatiotemporal scales. In this analysis, 91 consumer-grade PurpleAir indoor/outdoor monitor pairs were identified in California (41 residential houses and 50 public/commercial buildings) during a 20-month period with around 650000 h of paired PM2.5 measurements. An empirical method was developed based on local polynomial regression to estimate site-specific Finf. The estimated site-specific Finf had a mean of 0.26 (25th, 75th percentiles: [0.15, 0.34]) with a mean bootstrap standard deviation of 0.04. The Finf estimates were toward the lower end of those reported previously. A threshold of ambient PM2.5 concentration, approximately 30 μg/m3, below which indoor sources contributed substantially to personal exposures, was also identified. The quantified relationship between indoor source contributions and ambient PM2.5 concentrations could serve as a metric of exposure errors when using outdoor monitors as an exposure proxy (without considering indoor-generated PM2.5), which may be of interest to epidemiological research. The proposed method can be generalized to larger geographical areas to better quantify PM2.5 outdoor infiltration and personal exposure.