cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Abstract A42: TWIST1 as a driver of accelerated tumor growth and drug resistance: Potential novel pathways and therapeutics.

Introduction: Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is particularly deadly due to its fast rate of growth, dissemination, and chemoresistant recurrences. Novel therapies are urgently needed to limit metastasis and restore platinum sensitivity. We have investigated the role of TWIST1, a basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor, in these processes. TWIST1 is a well-documented regulator of metastasis from solid tumors, which has been linked to cancer stem cell phenotypes, drug resistance, and poor prognosis in several tumor types. Here we present in vitro and in vivo data supporting TWIST19s role in EOC growth and drug resistance, and propose a therapeutic modality to target TWIST1. Methodology: In vitro and in vivo studies: We created two cell lines, derived from the EOC line OVCAR8, that differ only in their TWIST1 expression. The cells were stably transfected with a G418-selectible vector containing either TWIST1 or an shRNA targeting TWIST1 , under the control of the CMV viral promoter. Cells from each line were injected IP (intraperitoneally) into NSG mice, allowed to grow for 7 weeks, and tumor burden was evaluated at necropsy. In addition, RNA from each of these OVCAR8 cell lines (TWIST1 overexpressing versus knockdown) was isolated and used for RNA-seq analysis. Raw data was processed using the Galaxy online platform, and differentially expressed genes were further analyzed using Ingenuity Pathway Analysis. To determine the effect of TWIST1 on drug resistance, OVCAR8 cells with and without TWIST1 were treated with varying doses of cisplatin, and survival was quantified using colorimetric cytotoxicity assays. Therapeutic Application: Since we and others have shown that TWIST19s transactivation/protein binding (WR) domain is required for TWIST1 function, we produced a fusion protein comprised of GFP and the WR domain, and used CoIP to evaluate its ability to competitively inhibit TWIST1 binding in HEK 293 cells. Results: TWIST1 knockdown resulted in reduced tumor size and overall tumor burden in an NSG mouse model of EOC. Specifically, all mice receiving TWIST1-overexpressing cells developed primary ovarian tumors which were scored +4 on HE Oct 17-20, 2015; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2016;22(2 Suppl):Abstract nr A42.
The effects of tobacco on the surgical patient ... (continuing education credit).

Smoking is proven to have an adverse effect on an individual's health. Long term use of tobacco products has a cumulative effect leading to compromised physiology of several body systems. Clinical research studies support the premise that tobacco users are at an increased risk for surgical complications. Individuals with a history of tobacco abuse present a challenge to the nurse. Throughout the perioperative phase the nurse initiates interventions to prevent or minimize complications. This article presents a general overview of the adverse effects of tobacco on the surgical patient and nursing interventions when caring for a patient with a history of tobacco abuse.
Adrenal Histologic Stress-Related Changes in Third Trimester Stillbirth: Frequency and Clinical-Pathologic Correlations in a Predominantly African-American Population.

Adrenal histologic changes, including compact cell change (CCC), cystic change (CYC), and adrenal hemorrhage (AH), and their clinical correlations have only infrequently been investigated in stillb...
V-Y fasciocutaneous flap closure technique is a safe and efficacious alternative to primary closure of the perineal wound following abdominoperineal resection

Abstract Background The aim of this study was to compare wound complications from V-Y flap vs primary closure in the setting of abdominoperineal resection. Methods This was a single institution retrospective review (1999–2014). The main outcome measures were any wound complication, hospital length of stay, and unplanned readmissions. Results Among 80 patients included, 21 (26%) received reconstruction with V-Y flap. Compared with those who received primary closure, patients who underwent V-Y flap reconstruction had lower rates of overall wound complications (14.3% vs 64%, P = .002), superficial surgical site infection (6% vs 32%, P = .05), and wound dehiscence (4.5% vs 14%, P = .251 statistical significance not met). Conclusions Reconstruction of perineal defect following abdominoperineal resection using a V-Y fasciocutaneous flap is a safe and efficacious alternative to traditional simple primary closure and is associated with reduced postoperative morbidity. Further comparative effectiveness studies should be undertaken to evaluate long-term and quality-of-life outcomes.
Part 2. Pressure Scale and Fixed Point

A straightforward measurement of pressure involves measuring a force and an area. Several types of high pressure apparatus are very difficult to calibrate so as to know the pressure at the sample because a relatively unknown fraction of the force is dissipated in friction between moving parts of the pressure apparatus or lost to internal friction within the gasket material surrounding the sample. The area over which the pressure is applied is also a difficult problem at high pressures because of compression of the high pressure apparatus. These types of apparatus are most generally ‘calibrated’ by arriving at a correspondence between the load applied and the sample pressure. This is accomplished by replacing the sample with some material which experiences a phase change at some known pressure and noting the load at this change. This gives a point on the load pressure calibration curve. Several such points are measured and then connected with a smooth curve. Of course, the above presupposes that there has been a measurement of the pressure at which these phase changes take place.
Disease burden and pain in obese cancer patients with chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy.

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) and obesity are prevalent in cancer survivors and decrease quality of life; however, the impact of the co-occurrence of these conditions has garnered little attention. This study investigated differences between obese and non-obese cancer survivors with CIPN and predictors of symptom burden and pain. Patients with CIPN were administered the MD Anderson Symptom Inventory and a modified version of pain descriptors from the McGill Pain Inventory. Independent t tests assessed group differences between obese and non-obese survivors, and linear regression analyses explored predictors of patient outcomes. Results indicated a significant difference in symptom severity scores for obese (M = 32.89, SD = 25.53) versus non-obese (M = 19.35, SD = 16.08) patients (t(37.86) = −2.49, p = .02). Significant differences were also found for a total number of pain descriptors endorsed by obese (M = 4.21, SD = 3.45) versus non-obese (M = 2.42, SD = 2.69) participants (t(74) = −2.53, p = .01). Obesity was a significant predictor of symptom severity and total pain descriptors endorsed. Other significant predictors included age and months since treatment. Cancer survivors with CIPN and co-occurring obesity may be more at risk for decreased quality of life through increased symptom severity and pain compared to non-obese survivors. This paper identified risk factors, including obesity, age, and months since treatment, that can be clinically identified for monitoring distress in CIPN patients. Future research should focus on the longitudinal relationship between obesity and CIPN, and robust interventions to address the multifaceted issues faced by cancer survivors.
Interaction of Indomethacin With Calf Thymus DNA: A Multi-Spectroscopic, Thermodynamic and Molecular Modelling Approach

Indomethacin belongs to the acetic acid derivative class of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs with diverse pharmacological and biological activities. Understanding the mechanism of interaction of drugs with possible target and off-target biomolecules can prove useful in the development of a rational drug designing system. In this paper, we have attempted to ascertain the mode of binding of indomethacin with calf thymus DNA (Ct-DNA) through various biophysical techniques and in silico molecular docking. Analysis of the UV-visible absorbance spectra and fluorescence emission profile of indomethacin upon addition of Ct-DNA indicates the formation of a drug–DNA complex. UV-visible absorbance and steady state fluorescence experiments revealed a binding constant on the order of 103 L mol−1, which is consistent with those of well-known groove binders. Competitive displacement studies with ethidium bromide, acridine orange and Hoechst 33258 further suggested that indomethacin binds to the minor groove of the Ct-DNA. The above observations were further confirmed by KI induced quenching experiments, DNA melting studies, CD spectral analysis and viscosity measurements. The thermodynamic parameters like spontaneous free energy (ΔG < 0) and large favourable enthalpy (ΔH < 0) obtained from isothermal calorimetry indicated the involvement of hydrogen bonding and van der Waals forces in the binding process. Molecular docking further corroborated the experimental results.
At-Stream-Velocity Pumping Sediment Sampling System

The sampling system collects water-sediment samples at local stream velocity from any point in an open channel flow. The system uses a flow-through Pitot tube as a combination velocity sensor and sampler nozzle. The main advantage of the sampling system over existing suspended sediment samplers such as the US-P series samplers is that a sample of any desired volume can be collected without changing the position of the sampler nozzle. To compare the performance of the system with that of other samplers, suspended-sediment samples were collected from a flat-bed flow using the system, a US DH-48 sampler modified for point sampling, and a siphon sampler. On the basis of these samples, at the 99% confidence level, the relative percent difference between the concentrations of the samples from the system and the siphon sampler was between -5.45 and 4.45 and the relative percent difference between the concentrations of the samples from the system and from the US DH-48 was between -0.54 and 7.78.
Measurement, Education and Tracking in Integrated Care (METRIC): use of a culturally adapted education tool versus standard education to increase engagement in depression treatment among Hispanic patients: study protocol for a randomized control trial

Significant mental health disparities exist for Hispanic populations, especially with regard to depression treatment. Stigma and poor communication between patients and their providers result in low use of antidepressant medications and early treatment withdrawal. Cultural factors which influence treatment decisions among Hispanics include fears about the addictive and harmful properties of antidepressants, worries about taking too many pills, and the stigma attached to taking medications. Primary care settings often are the gateway to identifying undiagnosed or untreated mental health disorders, particularly for people with co-morbid physical health conditions. Hispanics, in particular, are more likely to receive mental healthcare in primary care settings. Recent recommendations from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force are that primary care providers screen adult patients for depression only if systems are in place to ensure adequate treatment and follow-up. We are conducting a randomized controlled trial among 150 depressed adult Hispanics in a primary care safety net setting, testing the effectiveness of a culturally appropriate depression education intervention to reduce stigma and increase uptake in depression treatment among Hispanics, and implement a Measurement-Based Integrated Care (MBIC) model with collaborative, multidisciplinary treatment and culturally tailored care management strategies. This study protocol represents the first randomized control trial of the culturally adapted depression education fotonovela, Secret Feelings, among Hispanics in a primary care setting. The education intervention will be implemented after diagnosis using an innovative screening technology and enrolled in measurement-based integrated care for the treatment of depression, which will help build the evidence around cultural adaptations in treatment to reduce mental health disparities. ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02702596. Registered on 20 March 2016.
The splicing factor transformer2 (tra2) functions in the Drosophila fat body to regulate lipid storage.

Excess nutrients are stored as triglycerides mainly in the adipose tissue of an animal and these triglycerides are located in structures called lipid droplets. Previous genome-wide RNAi screens in Drosophila cells identified splicing factors as playing a role in lipid droplet formation. Our lab has recently identified the SR protein, 9G8, as an important factor in fat storage as decreasing its levels results in augmented triglyceride storage in the fat body. Previous in vitro studies have implicated 9G8 in the regulation of splicing of the sex determination gene doublesex (dsx) by binding to transformer (tra) and transformer2 (tra2); however, any function of these sex determination proteins in regulating metabolism is unknown. In this study, we have uncovered a role of tra2 to regulate fat storage in vivo. Inducing tra2dsRNA in the adult fat body resulted in an increase in triglyceride levels but had no effect on glycogen storage. Consistent with the triglyceride phenotype, tra2 knockdown flies lived longer under starvation conditions. In addition, this increase in triglycerides is due to more fat storage per cell and not an increase in the number of fat cells. Interestingly, the splicing of CPT1, an enzyme involved in the breakdown of lipids, was altered in flies with decreased tra2. The less-catalytically active isoform of CPT1 accumulated in tra2dsRNA flies suggesting a decrease in lipid breakdown, which is consistent with the increased triglyceride levels observed in these flies. Together, these results suggest a link between mRNA splicing, sex determination and lipid metabolism and may provide insight into the mechanisms underlying tissue-specific splicing and nutrient storage.
Governmentality and Post-Fordist Art Education

This chapter bears down on neoliberal ideology’s influence on contemporary conceptions of creativity and its education. Under the present post-Fordist system of economic production, artists—with their drive to innovate, flexible production practices, and tolerance for precarity—are being upheld as ideal workers. The resulting requirements of immaterial labor have obliged the restructuring of education through forms of neoliberal governmentality that set about instilling specific values and urgencies manifesting in the governmentalization of learning and economization of education. In my consideration of the convergence of these pressures I focus on how the Partnership for 21st Century Skills mandates the acceleration of post-Fordist economic goals for art education through government of self and others that greatly reduces the possibilities for the nurturing of creativity.
Assessing Variation in Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator Therapy Guideline Adherence With Physician and Hospital Patient-sharing Networks.

BACKGROUND Implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) therapy is used for primary prevention of death among people with heart failure, and new evidence in 2005 on its effectiveness changed practice guidelines in the United States. OBJECTIVES The objective of this study is to examine how the connectedness of physicians and hospitals, measured using network analysis, relates to guideline-consistent ICD implantation. RESEARCH DESIGN We constructed physician and hospital networks for cardiovascular disease. Physicians were linked if they shared cardiovascular disease patients; these links were aggregated by hospital affiliation to construct a hospital network. SUBJECTS Medicare beneficiaries who underwent ICD therapy for primary prevention from 2007 to 2011. MEASURES The clinical outcome of interest was guideline-consistent ICD implantation, calculated using the National Cardiovascular Data Registry. The exposure variables of interest were the network measures of the ICD surgeon, the referring hospital, and the hospital where the ICD surgery occurred. RESULTS We focused on patients who were referred between hospitals for ICD implantation because they were more likely influenced by the hospital network (n=28,179). Patients were less likely to meet guidelines if their referring hospital had more connections to other hospitals (OR, 0.49; 95% confidence interval, 0.25-0.96) and more likely to meet guidelines if their ICD surgery hospital had more connections (OR, 1.61; 95% confidence interval, 0.98-2.64). The ICD surgeon's network measures were not associated with guideline-consistent implantation. CONCLUSIONS Associations between the hospital network measures and guideline adherence suggests new approaches to better disseminate clinical guidelines across health systems.
Dormio: Interfacing with Dreams

Current HCI research overlooks an opportunity to create human-machine interaction within the unique cognition ongoing during dreams and drowsiness. During sleep onset, a window of opportunity arises in the form of Hypnagogia, a semi-lucid sleep state where we begin dreaming before we fall fully unconscious. To access this state, we developed Dormio, the first interactive interface for sleep, designed for use across levels of consciousness. Here we present evidence for a first use case, directing dream content to augment human creativity. The system enables future HCI research into Hypnagogia, extending interactive technology across levels of consciousness.
The Family’s Impact on Adolescent Outcomes

Research efforts focused on both the parent–adolescent dyad and polyadic relationships inside of families with adolescents invariably are linked to attempts to understand the impact of these family-oriented variables on adolescent outcomes. The present chapter reviews the empirical literature over the last 15 years that centers attention on the linkage between family factors and various aspects of adolescent outcomes, including adolescent delinquency, mental health issues, substance use and abuse, sexual activity, education, and socially competent behaviors. Many of these studies share some important similarities, including having generated substantial evidence concerning the critical role that parenting behaviors and family processes play in adolescent adjustment and well-being. Many of these studies also underscore the corresponding impact of peers and other social contexts beyond the family, as well as highlighting the importance of sibling relationships in families with adolescents. As well, the ways in which gender, race, ethnicity and culture influence the influence of parenting and family process variables also are discussed in many of the studies reviewed in this chapter.
Molecular progression of prostate cancer: Androgens and estrogens

Androgens are responsible for the growth of the normal prostate gland and play an essential role in the development and progression of prostate cancer. Accordingly, androgen deprivation provides a favorable initial clinical response for the majority of patients with advanced prostate cancers. However, tumors invariably recur as a lethal phenotype known as castrate-resistant disease. The androgen receptor (AR) is a nuclear transcription factor, which binds androgens in the cell cytoplasm, translocates to the nucleus, and assembles as a protein complex that regulates target gene expression. As such, the AR has been a prime target for androgen deprivation therapies. Interestingly, however, the AR maintains a critical role in the survival of castrate-resistant tumors, likely through a variety of mechanisms including receptor overexpression, mutation, splice variation, alternative ligand activation, coactivator modification, as well as the intratumoral production of androgens. Meanwhile, the impact of estrogens and the estrogen receptor in prostate cancer development and treatment continues to be defined. Here, we review current concepts regarding the role of the sex-steroid hormone axis in prostate cancer.
Role of Astrocytes in Delayed Neuronal Death: GLT-1 and its Novel Regulation by MicroRNAs

Astrocytes have been shown to protect neurons from delayed neuronal death and increase their survival in cerebral ischemia. One of the main mechanisms of astrocyte protection is rapid removal of excess glutamate from synaptic sites by astrocytic plasma membrane glutamate transporters such as GLT-1/EAAT-2, reducing excitotoxicity. Astrocytic mitochondrial function is essential for normal GLT-1 function. Manipulating astrocytic mitochondrial and GLT-1 function is thus an important strategy to enhance neuronal survival and improve outcome following cerebral ischemia. Increasing evidence supports the involvement of microRNAs (miRNA), some of them being astrocyte-enriched, in the regulation of cerebral ischemia. This chapter will first update the information about astrocytes, GLT-1, astrocytic mitochondria, and delayed neuronal death. Then we will focus on two recently reported astrocyte-enriched miRNAs (miR-181 and miR-29 families), their effects on astrocytic mitochondria and GLT-1 as well as on outcome after cerebral ischemia.
Dipeptidyl(amino)peptidase IV and post proline cleaving enzyme in cultured endothelial and smooth muscle cells.

Dipeptidyl (amino) peptidase IV (DAP IV; EC 3.4.14.5) and post proline cleaving enzyme (PPCE; EC 3.4.21.26) can convert or degrade vasoactive peptides and have been identified in isolated vessels. The present study examined the cellular (endothelial/smooth muscle) localization of vascular DAP IV and PPCE. Membrane-bound DAP IV was higher on cultured hog aorta smooth muscle (11.7 ±1.7 nmol/min/mg) than on endothelium (1.5 ± 0.3 nmol/min/mg). In contrast, comparable levels of cytosolic PPCE were found in endothelium and smooth muscle (1.5 ± 0.3 and 1.8 ± 0.3 nmol/min/mg, respectively). DAP IV was specifically inhibited by diprotin A (lie-Pro-He) (IC50 = 6 µM) while PPCE was inhibited by TPCK. Neither enzyme was affected by o-phenanthroline or inhibitors of aminopeptidase M (amastatin, bestatin), neutral endopeptidases (phosphoramidon), carboxypeptidases N (MERGETPA) or ACE (Captopril). DAP IV may play a role in the extracellular metabolism of peptides at or near endothelial and smooth muscle cell surface receptors. In contrast, the cytosolic localization of PPCE may limit its participation to intracellular peptide metabolism.
Testosterone: use, misuse and abuse.

• Testosterone is among the oldest drugs in medicine. It has a long efficacy and safety record for its prime role of androgen replacement therapy in men with androgen deficiency. • Testosterone and synthetic analogue androgens have also been used in pharmacological androgen therapy (PAT) to produce androgenic effects on marrow, muscle or bone. Although PAT is increasingly being superseded by newer, more expensive drugs, androgens remain cost-effective in many older applications. • Androgen misuse is the systematic over-prescribing for unproven medical indications. Misuse is increasingly evident for male ageing (“andropause”) and some other clinical conditions. • Further trials for new indications for androgens require reliable safety data, but rising costs may make it increasingly attractive to circumvent the need for evidence by promoting off-label mass marketing. • Androgen abuse is the illicit self-administration of often massive doses of androgens for non-medical purposes — notably power sports and body building. In parallel with effective detection reducing androgen abuse in elite sports, more focus is needed on non-sporting cosmetic, recreational and occupational androgen abuse.
Coupling of the Free Energy of Hydrolysis of ATP to Na+ Transport Across Frog Skin

Much is known separately about transepithelial Na+ transport and the ATP hydrolysis supporting that transport. However, relatively little is known concerning the coupling of the two processes, and much of that information has been derived from erythrocytes (Civan 1983). To examine this issue, a series of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopic, electrophysiologic, and chemical analyses of frog skin have been initiated. In these studies, we have been concerned with two problems. First, we have wished to develop techniques to monitor the intracellular contents of Na+, ATP, phosphocreatine (PCr), and inorganic phosphate (Pi) noninvasively at room temperature. Second, we have compared the free energy of hydrolysis of intracellular ATP (- ΔG ATP c ) with the free energy expended by the Na,K-exchange pump (ΔG Na,K bl ) in extruding three sodium ions and accumulating two potassium ions. The results reviewed below indicate that the Na,K-exchange pump operates far from equilibrium and that (- ΔG ATP c ) is little affected by large changes in Na+ transport across frog skin.
The Quantitative Analysis of the Hydra-Hydramoeba Host-Parasite System

Several species of the freshwater hydras have been reported infected with the protozoan amoeba parasite Hydramoeba hydroxena Entz. Entz (1912) and Reynolds and Looper (1928) found the greatest level of infection in late summer through December. The latter author suggested the hydramoeba posed a “serious threat” to the hydra population. Epidemic levels of the infection have also been reported by Welch and Loomis (1924) and Miller (1936) in Douglas Lake, Michigan, and by Bryden (1952) in his work on Hydra oligactis in Tennessee. All reported highest levels of the parasite in the autumn, considerable deterioration of the hydra populations by the amoeba, and even complete disappearance of one hydra species due to the infection (Bryden, 1952). Further field studies of this host-parasite system are generally lacking.
Characterization of 234U/238U Activity Ratios and Potential Inorganic Uranium Complexation Species in Unregulated Water Sources in the Southwest Region of the Navajo Reservation

Abstract Extensive uranium mining occurred from the mid- to late-1900s on Navajo tribal lands in Northern Arizona, an area rich in natural uranium. In this study, water samples from unregulated sources on the Navajo Reservation were analyzed to determine elemental uranium concentration, 234U/238U activity ratios, and existing inorganic anions. These data provide a more complete understanding of uranium source and the formation of potential uranium complexes. Results of the current studies suggest that some wells on the Navajo Nation have uranium concentrations near or above the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency guideline of 30 μg/l. The 234U/238U activity ratios were similar for water wells located near mining sites with ratios of 1–1.5, and for those from the control, activity ratios were observed at 2.5–4.5. Two wells were observed to have high uranium and bicarbonate content suggesting the presence of uranyl carbonate species that may increase the solubility of uranium.
Targeting sudden death in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: promise or pipedream?

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a heterogeneous clinical syndrome that continues to expand in prevalence as the global population ages, and as cardiometabolic risk factors...
MOF-GO Hybrid Nanocomposite Adsorbents for Methane Storage

In this study, the storage of methane in nanocomposite adsorbents comprising metal–organic framework (MOF) and graphene oxide (GO) was investigated. Three different sets of MOF-GO nanocomposites co...
Multi-Level Multi-Stage Agent-Based Decision Support System for Simulation of Crowd Dynamics

The agent-based model is a well-established approach to carry out the simulation of crowd behavior under varying conditions and environments. However, this approach still lacks the ability to be fully automated and to take into account the agents' unfamiliarity and minimum awareness in an unknown environment. In this paper, we propose a multi-level multi-stage agent-based modeling framework that automates the decision-making processes during crowd evacuation in large-scale facilities. We demonstrate that crowd behaviors can be modeled at different stages and at several layers. We do this by integrating a probabilistic model with a dynamic generating process of intelligent guide agents to automatically generate decisions that are nearly optimal for neighboring agents. Specifically, we apply the framework to different evacuation scenarios and analyze its effectiveness in case of a high-density crowd. Our experimental results provide evidence that the hybrid multi-layered approach can be successfully applied to efficiently simulate agent behaviors in intensive crowd environments. The results show that employing our method, which is scalable, outperforms the standard conservative agent-based approaches.
Miniature spiders (with miniature brains) forget sooner

Miniature animals have tiny brains and should therefore face cognitive limitations. There is little supporting evidence for this expectation, however. We focused on memory information content and retention time, which likely subtend a broad range of cognitive abilities. Our study species, a web spider, allowed us to use a simple assay of working memory: how spiders search for prey they have captured and lost. We used an ontogenetic approach, taking advantage of variation in body size and the concomitant variation in brain size across instars in a single species. This approach eliminates possible confounding variation from species differences in ecology. Small spiders were the most highly motivated to search for lost prey and made the clearest discrimination of prey size. However, when we introduced a delay between memory formation and memory use, search time decreased more steeply in small spiders than in large spiders. Small spiders also performed less additional searching after their primary bout. Thus, the retention of working memory, but not its content, was limited in small spiders with small brains. We suggest that animals that evolve miniature sizes sacrifice not the ability to perceive and acquire information, but rather the ability to retain information over time in working memory. This may, in turn, limit their ability to relate behavioural decisions to their consequences.
Stable or seral? Fire-driven alternative states in aspen forests of western North America

As important centres for biological diversity, aspen forests are essential to the function and aesthetics of montane ecosystems in western North America. Aspen stands are maintained by a nuanced relationship with wildfire, although in recent decades aspen mortality has increased. The need to understand the baseline environmental conditions that favour aspen is clear; however, long-term fire history reconstructions are rare due to the scarcity of natural archives in dry montane settings. Here, we analyse a high-resolution lake sediment record from southwestern, Utah, USA to quantify the compositional and burning conditions that promote stable (or seral) aspen forests. Our results show that aspen presence is negatively correlated with subalpine fir and that severe fires tend to promote persistent and diverse aspen ecosystems over centennial timescales. This information improves our understanding of aspen disturbance ecology and identifies the circumstances where critical transitions in montane forests may occur.
How did we rapidly implement a convalescent plasma program

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of convalescent plasma as a possible treatment has been explored. Here we describe our experience as the first U.S. organization creating a COVID-19 convalescent plasma program to support its use through the single-patient emergency investigational new drug, the National Expanded Access Program, and multiple randomized controlled trials. Within weeks, we were able to distribute more than 8000 products, scale up collections to more than 4000 units per week, meet hospital demand, and support randomized controlled trials to evaluate the efficacy of convalescent plasma treatment. This was through strategic planning; redeployment of staff; and active engagement of hospital, community, and public health partners. Our partners helped with donor recruitment, testing, patient advocacy, and patient availability. The program will continue to evolve as we learn more about optimizing the product. Remaining issues to be resolved are antibody titers, dose, and at what stage of disease to transfuse.
Implementation of Telemedicine in a Laryngology Practice During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Lessons Learned, Experiences Shared.

ABSTRACT Objectives : The novel coronavirus disease 2019 has posed significant limitations and barriers to providing in-person healthcare. We aim to provide a summary of learned experiences and important considerations for implementing and offering telehealth to provide laryngology subspecialty care during the COVID-19 pandemic and thereafter. Materials and Methods : Four laryngologists and a voice-specialized speech-language pathologist from a tertiary-care academic Voice and Swallowing Center were engaged in a structured group consensus conference. Participants shared input, experiences and practice patterns employed via telemedicine (via telephone or video-communication) during the early COVID-19 era. Results : Key identified areas of consideration when offering telemedicine included (1) how to set up and structure a telemedicine visit and maintain patient confidentiality, (2) patient examination and treatment initiation, (3) optimization of the tele-visit, (4) limitations and recognition of when a tele-visit is insufficient for patient care needs, (5) billing/reimbursement considerations. Group consensus for the aforementioned topics is summarized and discussed. Conclusion : During the COVID-19 pandemic, a telemedicine model can be effectively employed to improve patient access to subspecialty laryngology care, including a multi-disciplinary care approach, with initiation of various therapeutic interventions. A major limitation given the preclusion of in-person assessment is the lack of access to laryngoscopy, which can likely be delayed safely in the majority of individuals.
Dance Lessons: Performance as Engaged Experiential Embodiment

As both scholar and dancer, Jonathan S. Marion has studied and taught a variety of partnered-dance forms including ballroom, salsa, and Brazilian zouk throughout the USA, Europe, and in Brazil. Based in his research concerning how different dance styles index different attitudes, understandings, and values relating to the body, touch, posture, and movement, he has developed a variety of classroom exercises to facilitate students’ understandings of culture as embodied. In this chapter, he describes the pedagogical value of four such exercises—concerning body posture, non-verbal greetings, in-class demonstrations, and ethnography-based skits—and the utility of each for helping students develop insights and build understandings in ways that purely textual representations cannot. Including students’ experiences and perspectives in describing how he uses each exercise, Jonathan highlights the role of experiential engagement in helping students develop more holistic and nuanced anthropological understandings.
Update on Evidence-Based Diagnosis and Treatment of Acetabular Labral Tears

This paper aims to assess the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and latest evidence-based treatment of acetabular labral tears. The acetabular labrum contributes to the stability of the hip. Labral tears may lead to significant pain and disability, although many are asymptomatic. Imaging and intra-articular injections are often required in addition to standard history and physical examination for accurate diagnosis. Most patients will benefit from initial conservative treatment, but those requiring surgical intervention may have better outcomes with labral repair over debridement. If the labral tear is irreparable, reconstruction is favored. There is still conflicting evidence regarding the efficacy of surgical versus non-surgical treatment likely due to heterogeneity of pathology, patient activity, and lack of long-term follow up. The approach to management of acetabular labral tears starts with confirming the labrum as the primary pain generator. Most patients benefit from initial conservative treatment. Ultimately, the decision for surgical treatment is dependent on correct patient selection. Those patients who are youger, with bony morphologic changes, a higher activity level, an isolated labral tear without significant cartilage degeneration, and good response to intra-articular diagnostic injection will likely have better outcomes with surgical treatment.
Duplex Ultrasound Surveillance after Transcarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR) in Clinical Practice.

Background To propose a protocol for the routine clinical use of duplex ultrasound (DUS) assessment after transcarotid artery revascularization (TCAR) procedures, with its specific point of vascular access, based on DUS data from routine clinical practice. Methods DUS data were retrospectively collected at 2 centers from a total of 97 patients who underwent a TCAR procedure with at least 30-day and up to 12-month follow-up. Peak systolic velocity (PSV), end diastolic velocity (EDV), and the internal carotid artery (ICA)/common carotid artery (CCA) PSV ratio were collected at baseline (≤30 days after the procedure) and compared with subsequent measurements. Results Baseline data were established within 30 days after the procedure. There were no access site stenoses, pseudoaneurysms, or dissections detected in follow-up. Average hemodynamics measurements at 12 months after the procedure (36% of patients reached this time point to date) were PSV 167 ± 153 cm/sec, EDV 51 ± 55 cm/sec, and ICA/CCA PSV 2.3 ± 1.9. Five patients (5.2%) exhibited velocities indicative of ≥80% in-stent restenosis (ISR) at 12 months after the procedure. Two patients (2.1%) underwent repeat intervention for ISR based on high velocities and before significant clinical consequence. The other 3 patients (3.1%) were asymptomatic and are being managed medically and monitored for neurological symptoms. One intraprocedural stroke (1.0% of total treated) was observed. Conclusions This protocol not only illustrates the utility of using the CCA for the arterial access sheath for carotid stenting, but also successfully identifies patients with clinically significant restenosis >80%–99%. A surveillance regimen of baseline at ≤30 days after the procedure, followed by assessment at 6 and 12 months, and yearly thereafter appears to be a safe and effective protocol, based on the data available to date. A PSV >340 cm/sec and ICA/CCA ratio >4.15 is consistent with an 80–99% restenosis after TCAR. Although a small number, this study serves as a starting point for those who perform TCAR to specifically look at the CCA access site to rule out these potential pitfalls which did occur in the early trials.
Effectiveness of a Pre-College STEM Outreach Program

Workforce shortages in the field of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) have led to an increasing need for STEM outreach programs for high school students. This paper presents an integrated approach to such efforts; government agencies, the host university, and local professional associations play meaningful roles in program design and implementation. This paper also evaluates program effectiveness in increasing high school students' likelihood of studying STEM in college. Beginning and end-of-program surveys, coupled with demographic data, provide rich information on participants' backgrounds and their responses to STEM exposure and intervention. A discrete choice model discovers participants' differential valuation of program effectiveness and quantifies the factors that influence participants' pursuit of STEM college education due to program participation. In addition to demographics and family culture, overall program experience is critical to the perceived benefits of STEM exposure. Findings can help educators and outreach program directors develop appealing STEM outreach curriculum.
Smuggling and the exercise of effective sovereignty at the China-Myanmar border

As a component of illicit globalization, smuggling has loomed large in international political economy in recent years. The question of sovereignty is at the forefront of the discussion because smu...
The United States and the NATO Non-extension Assurances of 1990: New Light on an Old Problem?

The Russian government has claimed that the Western powers promised at the end of the Cold War not to expand NATO, but later reneged on that promise. Most former officials in the West, and many sch...
Colorectal Cancer in People with Cystic Fibrosis under the Age of 40: A Case Series

Introduction Mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene cause cystic fibrosis (CF), a disease which affects primarily the respiratory and gastrointestinal (GI) tracts. The lifetime risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) in patients with CF is approximately 5-10 times that of the general population. In 2018, the CF Foundation CRC Screening Task Force recommended initiating CRC screening in adults with CF at age 40. Case Presentations In this case series, we present three cases of females with CF younger than age 40 diagnosed with CRC with variable presentations and stages. We discuss the data supporting current CRC screening guidelines in CF in an effort to raise awareness among clinicians regarding young-onset CRC in this population. Furthermore, we aim for this case series to help drive further investigation into the mechanisms underlying CF-related CRC and to open the door to changes in current screening practices. Conclusion People with CF are at substantially higher risk of development of CRC relative to the general population. While current CRC screening practices advocate for earlier screening in this population compared to average-risk patients, this case series highlights potential limitations to current screening guidelines.
Effects of Using Virtual Manipulatives for Students With Disabilities: Three-Level Multilevel Modeling for Single-Case Data:

We synthesized studies published since 2000 that assessed the effects of using virtual manipulatives to increase the mathematical accuracy of students with disabilities. We extracted a total of 1,7...
Twin-Twin Transfusion Syndrome Complicated by Single Ventricle Physiology: A Case Report

Clinically significant extrauterine twin-twin transfusion syndrome in conjoined twins is rare and carries a high risk of perinatal mortality. The ensuing postnatal imbalance in circulation across connecting vessels results in hypovolemia in the donor and hypervolemia in the recipient. Data on management and treatment are sparse especially in the setting of a single ventricle congenital heart defect. We present a case of a pair of omphalopagus conjoined twins, one with a single ventricle physiology (Twin B), who developed twin-twin transfusion syndrome shortly after birth. The resulting pathophysiology in the setting of a single ventricle congenital heart defect created added layers of complexity to their management and expedited surgical separation. Shunting from Twin B to Twin A-with an anatomically normal heart-resulted in mal-perfusion and rapid deterioration jeopardizing the health of both twins. In the preoperative course, steps taken to medically optimize the twins prior to surgery and the anesthetic considerations are detailed in this report.
Identifying Risk and Resilience Factors Impacting Mental Health among Black and Latinx Adults following Nocturnal Tornadoes in the U.S. Southeast

Prior research has found that Black and Latinx communities in the U.S. face significant disparities that impact both preparedness for severe weather events and the support received after a disaster has occurred. In the current study, we examined key risk and protective factors that impacted mental health among 221 Black and Latinx adult respondents exposed to the 2-3 March 2020 nocturnal tornado outbreak in the U.S. state of Tennessee. Key factors that adversely affected mental health among participants were encountering barriers for receiving tornado warning alerts and tornado-related exposure. Key factors that served a protective mechanism against adverse mental health included having access to physical resources, supportive relationships, and adaptive coping skills. These findings may assist National Weather Service (NWS) personnel, emergency managers, and mental health providers with the development of policies and practices to address barriers and promote protective strategies for future nocturnal tornado events.
APOΕ4 lowers energy expenditure in females and impairs glucose oxidation by increasing flux through aerobic glycolysis.

Background Cerebral glucose hypometabolism is consistently observed in individuals with Alzheimer's disease (AD), as well as in young cognitively normal carriers of the E4 allele of Apolipoprotein E (APOE), the strongest genetic predictor of late-onset AD. While this clinical feature has been described for over two decades, the mechanism underlying these changes in cerebral glucose metabolism remains a critical knowledge gap in the field. Methods Here, we undertook a multi-omic approach by combining single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) and stable isotope resolved metabolomics (SIRM) to define a metabolic rewiring across astrocytes, brain tissue, mice, and human subjects expressing APOE4. Results Single-cell analysis of brain tissue from mice expressing human APOE revealed E4-associated decreases in genes related to oxidative phosphorylation, particularly in astrocytes. This shift was confirmed on a metabolic level with isotopic tracing of 13C-glucose in E4 mice and astrocytes, which showed decreased pyruvate entry into the TCA cycle and increased lactate synthesis. Metabolic phenotyping of E4 astrocytes showed elevated glycolytic activity, decreased oxygen consumption, blunted oxidative flexibility, and a lower rate of glucose oxidation in the presence of lactate. Together, these cellular findings suggest an E4-associated increase in aerobic glycolysis (i.e. the Warburg effect). To test whether this phenomenon translated to APOE4 humans, we analyzed the plasma metabolome of young and middle-aged human participants with and without the E4 allele, and used indirect calorimetry to measure whole body oxygen consumption and energy expenditure. In line with data from E4-expressing female mice, a subgroup analysis revealed that young female E4 carriers showed a striking decrease in energy expenditure compared to non-carriers. This decrease in energy expenditure was primarily driven by a lower rate of oxygen consumption, and was exaggerated following a dietary glucose challenge. Further, the stunted oxygen consumption was accompanied by markedly increased lactate in the plasma of E4 carriers, and a pathway analysis of the plasma metabolome suggested an increase in aerobic glycolysis. Conclusions Together, these results suggest astrocyte, brain and system-level metabolic reprogramming in the presence of APOE4, a 'Warburg like' endophenotype that is observable in young females decades prior to clinically manifest AD.
Rightful Presence in Times of Crisis and Uprisings: A Call for Disobedience

Borders—territorial, economic, political, and ideological—are processes of social division. They monitor and exclude and are regulated, patrolled, and maintained by an array of power regimes, but b...