cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Poly(I: C) promotes TNFα/TNFR1-dependent oligodendrocyte death in mixed glial cultures

Activation of glial cells via toll-like receptors (TLRs) and other intracellular pathogen recognition receptors promotes the release of potentially toxic acute phase reactants such as TNFα and nitric oxide into the extracellular space. As such, prolonged glial activation, as is thought to occur during a persistent viral infection of the CNS, may contribute to both neurodegeneration and demyelination. However, the effects of virus-induced glial activation on oligodendrocytes are not fully understood. To determine the effects of glial activation on oligodendrocyte viability we treated primary glial cultures isolated from neonatal rats or mice with the RNA viral mimic poly(I:C) and in some cases other TLR ligands. TLR3 expression was determined by western blot. Cytokine levels were measured by RT-PCR, ELISA, and intracellular cytokine staining. Oligodendrocyte precursor (preOL) viability was determined by Alamar blue assays and immunocytochemistry. Stimulation of mixed glial cultures with poly(I:C) resulted in microglia activation, TNFα production and preOL toxicity. This toxic effect of poly(I:C) was indirect as it failed to affect preOL viability in pure cultures despite the fact that preOLs express TLR3. Poly(I:C)-induced loss of preOLs was abolished in TNFα or TNFR1 deficient mixed glial cultures, suggesting that TNFα/TNFR1 signaling is required for poly(I:C) toxicity. Furthermore, although both microglia and astrocytes express functional TLR3, only microglia produced TNFα in culture. Consistent with these findings, other TLR agonists similarly triggered TNFα production and preOL toxicity in mixed glial cultures. Activation of microglia by poly(I:C) promotes TNFα/TNFR1-dependent oligodendroglial cell death. These data indicate that during an ongoing viral infection of the CNS, microglial TNFα may be detrimental to oligodendrocytes.
Phase Field Modeling of the Tetragonal-to-Monoclinic Phase Transformation in Zirconia

Abstract The allotropic phase transformation in zirconia from the tetragonal to monoclinic double lattices is known to occur by a martensitic twinning mechanism which shows a complex dependence on temperature, stress and environment. This paper is concerned with the development of a phase field model which accounts for the main metallurgical mechanisms governing this martensitic transition. The symmetry reduction and orientation relationship between the parent and product phases were simulated using several non-conserved order parameters representing different transformation paths. Inhomogeneous and anisotropic elastic properties were considered to determine the resultant elastic stresses. Governing equations of the tetragonal-to-monoclinic transformation were solved in a finite element framework under a variety of initial and boundary conditions. It was shown that applying different initial conditions, such as seed embryo or random, did not change the twinning patterns or the final volume fractions of the parent and product phases after the relaxation period. On the other hand, enforcing different boundary conditions resulted in completely different twinning patterns and phase volume fractions. The model was able to predict both the “V” shape morphology of twinning and the surface stress relief with “gable roof” patterns, which were observed by transmission electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy to be characteristic of the tetragonal-to-monoclinic transition.
Analysis of Depolarizing and Hyperpolarizing Inactivation Responses in Gymnotid Electroplaques

In electroplaques of several gymnotid fishes hyperpolarizing or depolarizing currents can evoke all-or-none responses that are due to increase in membrane resistance as much as 10- to 12-fold. During a response the emf of the membrane shifts little, if at all, when the cell either is at its normal resting potential, or is depolarized by increasing external K, and in the case of depolarizing responses when either Cl or an impermeant anion is present. Thus, the increase in resistance is due mainly, or perhaps entirely, to decrease in K permeability, termed depolarizing or hyperpolarizing K inactivation, respectively. In voltage clamp measurements the current-voltage relation shows a negative resistance region. This characteristic accounts for the all-or-none initiation and termination of the responses demonstrable in current clamp experiments. Depolarizing inactivation is initiated and reversed too rapidly to measure with present techniques in cells in high K. Both time courses are slowed in cells studied in normal Ringer's. Once established, the high resistance state is maintained as long as an outward current is applied. Hyperpolarizing inactivation occurs in normal Ringer's or with moderate excess K. Its onset is more rapid with stronger stimuli. During prolonged currents it is not maintained; i.e., there is a secondary increase in conductance. Hyperpolarizing inactivation responses exhibit a long refractory period, presumably because of persistence of this secondary increase in conductance.
Optimization Methods: One-to-One Distribution

Newell (1971) shows how to find an optimal sequence of headways for a transportation route serving a changing demand over time with a continuum approximation method that avoids “details.” This problem is mathematically analogous to the problems with time dependent demand addressed in this chapter, which are traditionally solved with dynamic programming. Section 3.3, is based on this reference. Daganzo (1987) shows that a continuous approximation of a function and its variables can be more accurate than the exact, detailed and discontinuous world representation they replace. This result is discussed in Section 3.2.
Proposed Radiation Induced Hormone Crisis in a Patient with Glucagonoma.

Tumor lysis syndrome (TLS) refers to a group of disorders that occur as a secondary complicaton of cancer treatments, in which dying cells release large quantities of intracellular components in the blood circulation [6]. Typically, solutes like potassium, phosphate, calcium, and nucleic acids are found in dangerously high levels following chemotherapy or radiation therapy in patients with TLS. This syndrome is typically documented in cancers like leukemia and lymphomas but has been documented in solid tumors as well [1]. When this occurs in solid neuroendocrine tumors, there is measurable release of hormones into the circulation. Glucagonomas are rare glucagon secreting malignant tumors, more than half of which have metastasized by the time of diagnosis, with the liver being the primary site [2]. Chemotherapy and microsphere-radiation are palliative, whereas symptomatic relief is achieved with surgical debulking and long-acting somatostatin analogues [3]. Surgical resection can be curative in primary neoplasms. The following criteria support a diagnosis of glucagonoma syndrome, an elevated serum glucagon level, radiographically or histologically demonstrable neuroendocrine tumor, and characteristic clinical features [4]. Our original case report reviewed the paradoxical presentation of a patient with stage IV glucagonoma who had presented with a benign physical exam and non-specific complaints [5]. Following initiation of therapy, the patient developed multiple local and systemic complaints that were believed to be side effects of treatment but are now thought to secondary to massive hormone release. Case Presentation
Electrical control of cell density and morphology on conducting polymer surfaces

One of the main goals of bioelectronics research is to develop an understanding of the interface between biological systems and electronic materials. Toward this goal we investigate the growth of three cell lines that include normal and malignant cells on the conducting polymer poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) doped with p-toluenesulfonate (Tosylate, Tos). The results show that electrical stimuli can control the location of cellgrowth on a substrate as well as cell morphology.
Mediated Negotiation in the Public Sector: The Planner as Mediator

Resource allocation decisions in the public sector are typically made by legislative and administrative bodies. All too often, these methods of decision making fail to produce wise and efficient responses to conflicting needs and interests and courts are asked to review or to overturn these decisions Recent experiments with medi ated negotiation — face-to-face negotiation involving teams representing key stake- holding interests and an impartial mediator — indicate that it might be possi ble to supplement traditional resource allo cation processes in a manner likely to yield an informed consensus Three cases have been selected to illustrate the procedures and opportunities involved
Control of mobile communications with time-varying channels in heavy traffic

Consider the forward link of a system with K remote units and a single base transmitter with time varying connecting channels. Data to be transmitted to the remote units arrives according to some random process, and is queued according to its destination. Power is to be allocated to the K channels in a queue and channel state depend on way to minimize some cost criterion. The channel fading rate is fast and the bandwidth and data arrival rates are high. Owing to the high speed of the fading, arrival, and service rates, an asymptotic or averaging of the heavy traffic type method is promising. By heavy traffic, we mean that on the average there is little server idle time and spare power over the "average" requirements. Heavy traffic analysis eliminates inessential details and focuses on the fundamental issues of scaling and parametric dependencies. To illustrate the scope of the method, several models are considered, and more complicated systems are also treated.
Behavioral Explanations Underlying the Lack of Trap Effectiveness for Small-Scale Management of Japanese Beetles (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae)

Traps containing a combination floral and synthetic pheromone lure are used to monitor and manage Japanese beetles, Popillia japonica Newman (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae). One key factor limiting trap effectiveness for beetle control is the “trap spillover” phenomenon, in which the trap attracts beetles without capturing them, resulting in increased damage to surrounding host plants. We investigated the mechanisms underlying trap spillover by conducting two studies in a soybean field in east central Illinois. In the first study, we set up trap stations for 1 d and compared the sex, size, and egg load (for females) of beetles caught in the traps with those on the plants immediately surrounding the trap, downwind of the trap, at lure-only (no trap) stations, and at control areas. Females caught in traps tended to be smaller than those on plants surrounding the traps, and females attracted to the traps had fewer eggs than those downwind or at control sites. We did not find any difference in male characteristics. In the second study, we observed the behavior of beetles initially approaching traps. Upon initial approach, the majority of individuals landed on plants before making contact with the trap, and those beetles that spent an extended time on the leaves tended to be females. Arriving males would occasionally pair with these females on the plants. Overall, traps did not capture a random subset of the beetles present in the field. We hypothesize that trap spillover is a result of arriving females not being as attracted to the precise location of the trap as they are to the general location itself, and of arriving males seeking mates and finding them among these spillover females.
Foreign and domestic news content of Chinese television

A sample from 10 weeks of the major Chinese national television news program was content analyzed; 559 news stories were coded according to duration, topic category, position in the newscast, and geographic origin. The 189 international stories clustered at the end of the broadcast and were significantly shorter than domestic stories. A plurality of domestic stories was from the capital, Beijing, and covered different topics than those that originated outside of China. Foreign and domestic stories were brief and provided little interpretation or background.
Early childhood social disadvantage is associated with poor health behaviours in adulthood

AbstractBackground: Individual health behaviours are considered important risk factors for cardiometabolic diseases. These behaviours may be socially patterned by early exposure to social disadvantage, but few studies have prospectively tested this hypothesis empirically.Aim: This study investigated whether childhood social disadvantage was associated with likelihood of engaging in less healthy behaviours 40 years later.Subjects and methods: Prospective data were analysed from the New England Family Study, a 2005–2007 adult follow-up of a cohort initiated in 1959–1966 (n = 565). Childhood social environment (age 7 years) was assessed using a cumulative index of socioeconomic and family stability factors. Logistic regression models evaluated associations between social disadvantage and each health-related behaviour and obesity in adulthood.Results: Relative to low disadvantage, higher disadvantage was associated with 3.6-fold greater odds of smoking (95% CI = 1.9–7.0), 4.8-fold greater odds (in women only)...
Podcasts, Google, and YouTube—Oh My! An Innovative Online Course for University Students on Preventing Hearing Loss

Although hearing conservation programs have been developed and assessed for young children, military and civilian personnel, employees, and other groups, few studies have reported on ways to assist college-age students to learn about and protect their hearing. In this paper, we discuss the rationale, development, analysis, and outcome of a web-based, general education course at a large research university in the Northeast. The study analyzed annual student comments and evaluations of 2,745 individuals who had successfully completed the course from 2003 through 2011. Consistent, positive ratings using a seven-point scale (1 = lowest to 7 = highest) were obtained: the highest ratings of 6 or 7 were selected by 86% of respondents for content, 93% for overall learning experience, and 90% for online learning experience. Results suggested that college-age students can learn new knowledge and skills about hearing, hearing loss, and the negative impact of noise across the lifespan. Quantitative and qualitative da...
The history of birth and death.

The demographic history of humanity is reviewed. The author concludes that over the course of human evolution zero population growth was the norm rather than the exception. The reasons for this are examined in an effort to throw light on the causes of the modern population explosion (ANNOTATION)
Electromagnetic field modeling for defect detection in 7 nm node patterned wafers

By 2017, the critical dimension in patterned wafers will shrink down to 7 nm, which brings great challenges to optics-based defect inspection techniques, due to the ever-decreasing signal to noise ratio with respect to defect size. To continue pushing forward the optics-based metrology technique, it is of great importance to analyze the full characteristics of the scattering field of a wafer with a defect and then to find the most sensitive signal type. In this article, the vector boundary element method is firstly introduced to calculate the scattering field of a patterned wafer at a specific objective plane, after which a vector imaging theory is introduced to calculate the field at an image plane for an imaging system with a high numerical aperture objective lens. The above methods enable the effective modeling of the image for an arbitrary vectorial scattering electromagnetic field coming from the defect pattern of the wafer.
On the Depth of Szemerédi's Theorem

Manymathematicians have cited depth as an important value in their research. However, there is no single widely accepted account of mathematical depth. This article is an attempt to bridge this gap. The strategy is to begin with a discussion of Szemeredi’s theorem, which says that each subset of the natural numbers that is sufficiently dense contains an arithmetical progression of arbitrary length. This theorem has been judged deep bymanymathematicians, and somakes for a good case on which to focus in analyzing mathematical depth. After introducing the theorem, four accounts of mathematical depth will be considered. Mathematicians frequently cite depth as an important value for their research. A perusal of the archives of just the Annals of Mathematics since the 1920s reveals more than a hundred articles employing the modifier ‘deep’, referring to deep results, theorems, conjectures, questions, consequences, methods, insights, connections, and analyses. However, there is no single widely shared understanding of what mathematical depth consists in. This article is a modest attempt to bring some coherence to mathematicians’ understandings of depth, as a preliminary to determining more precisely what its value is. I make no attempt at completeness here; there are many more understandings of depth in the mathematical literature than I have categorized here, indeed so many as to cast doubt on the notion that depth is a single phenomenon at all. Yet I hope to advance our philosophical understanding of this rich cluster of values a little bit, perhaps making way for more unified accounts to follow. My strategy in this article is to introduce Szemeredi’s theorem, that every sufficiently ‘dense’ subset ofN contains an arbitrarily long arithmetic progression, as a case study for focusing an investigation of mathematical depth. After discussing the content †Thanks to Jeremy Heis, Penelope Maddy, Bennett McNulty, Sean Walsh, and Jim Weatherall for organizing the conference on mathematical depth at UC Irvine in April 2014 at which this paper was first presented, and to the participants of this conference for stimulating discussions. Thanks to Jordan Ellenberg, Balazs Gyenis, Juliette Kennedy, and Jonathan Livengood for helpful comments on drafts of the article. Philosophia Mathematica (III) Vol. 00 No. 0 C ©The Authors [2015]. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com • 1 Philosophia Mathematica Advance Access published January 6, 2015
The Collective Action of Exporters

Competing in global markets sometimes depends on industry-specific public goods, like standards of production, existence of specialized intermediate inputs, or information about technology and markets. This paper explores participation in Business Association as a proxy for this cooperative activity of firms engaging in International Trade. Surveys from 68 countries show that exporters and importers participate more than other firms in Business Associations. While larger firms participate more in associations, exporters' participation is less sensitive to firm size, suggesting that even smaller exporters may benefit from participation, unlike in lobbying models. Opinion surveys also remark that exporters give a higher valuation to these constructive activities. Current workhorse models of International Trade are based on the crucial assumption that heterogeneous firms pay additional costs when dealing with foreign markets. Here we find evidence that some of these additional costs can be shared across firms, as suggested by Alfred Marshall in 1920.
Mortality Associated with Severe Sepsis Among Age-Similar Women with and without Pregnancy-Associated Hospitalization in Texas: A Population-Based Study

BACKGROUND The reported mortality among women with pregnancy-associated severe sepsis (PASS) has been considerably lower than among severely septic patients in the general population, with the difference being attributed to the younger age and lack of chronic illness among the women with PASS. However, no comparative studies were reported to date between patients with PASS and age-similar women with severe sepsis not associated with pregnancy (NPSS). MATERIAL AND METHODS We used the Texas Inpatient Public Use Data File to compare the crude and adjusted hospital mortality between women with severe sepsis, aged 20-34 years, with and without pregnancy-associated hospitalizations during 2001-2010, following exclusion of those with reported chronic comorbidities, as well as alcohol and drug abuse. RESULTS Crude hospital mortality among PASS vs. NPSS hospitalizations was lower for the whole cohort (6.7% vs. 14.1% [p<0.0001]) and those with ≥3 organ failures (17.6% vs. 33.2% [p=0.0100]). Adjusted PASS mortality (odds ratio [95% CI]) was 0.57 (0.38-0.86) [p=0.0070]. CONCLUSIONS Hospital mortality was unexpectedly markedly and consistently lower among women with severe sepsis associated with pregnancy, as compared with contemporaneous, age-similar women with severe sepsis not associated with pregnancy, without reported chronic comorbidities. Further studies are warranted to examine the sources of the observed differences and to corroborate our findings.
Tunable Quantum Dot Solids: Impact of Interparticle Interactions on Bulk Properties

QD-solids comprising self-assembled semiconductor nanocrystals such as CdSe are currently under investigation for use in a wide array of applications including light emitting diodes, solar cells, field effect transistors, photodetectors, and biosensors. The goal of this LDRD project was develop a fundamental understanding of the relationship between nanoparticle interactions and the different regimes of charge and energy transport in semiconductor quantum dot (QD) solids. Interparticle spacing was tuned through the application of hydrostatic pressure in a diamond anvil cell, and the impact on interparticle interactions was probed using x-ray scattering and a variety of static and transient optical spectroscopies. During the course of this LDRD, we discovered a new, previously unknown, route to synthesize semiconductor quantum wires using high pressure sintering of self-assembled quantum dot crystals. We believe that this new, pressure driven synthesis approach holds great potential as a new tool for nanomaterials synthesis and engineering.
The Stream of Time

As we have seen, there are some very fundamental similarities between space and time. There are also some dissimilarities. There exists, however, a unique aspect which, according to some, constitutes the most fundamental difference between space and time and which according to yet others does not exist at all. I am referring to the belief that time — unlike space — has a dynamic aspect as well as a static one.
Where Is the Power

Political power in the Federal Republic is fragmented and dispersed among a wide variety of institutions and elites. There is no single locus of power. At the national level, there are three major decision-making structures: (1) the Bundestag, the lower house of parliament; (2) the Federal Council (Bundesrat), which represents the states and is the German equivalent of an upper house; and (3) the federal government, or executive (the chancellor and cabinet). In addition, the sixteen states that constitute the Federal Republic play important roles, especially in the areas of education and internal security. These states also have a direct influence on national policymaking through the Bundesrat, which is composed of delegates from each of the states. The Federal Constitutional Court, which has the power of judicial review, has also become an increasingly powerful institution. Finally, a federal president, indirectly elected but with little independent responsibility for policy, serves as the ceremonial head of state and is expected to be a unifying or integrating figure, above the partisan political struggle.
Photochemical Tissue Passivation Attenuates AV Fistula Intimal Hyperplasia.

OBJECTIVE We hypothesized that decreasing vein compliance would protect the vein against stretch injury and reduce intimal hyperplasia (IH). BACKGROUND Although arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) are the criterion standard for vascular access, their effectiveness is limited by poor patency with 40% to 60% failing due to IH. Venous stretch injury from exposure to arterial pressure induces IH. Photochemical tissue passivation (PTP) crosslinks adventitial collagen, decreasing vein compliance to resemble that of an artery. METHODS AVFs were created between the femoral artery and epigastric vein in rats (n = 29). PTP was performed on the vein immediately before vessel anastomosis. AVFs were harvested after four weeks. Venous diameter was measured at the initial procedure and harvest. Intimal area was measured for each segment. Ultrasound was performed at harvest to measure AVF flow. RESULTS Following AVF construction, venous diameter increased by 10% ± 18% for PTP-treated vessels and 78% ± 27% for controls (P ≤ 0.0001). At one month, PTP reduced AVF dilation by 71% compared to control (69% ± 29% vs 241% ± 78%; P ≤ 0.0001). Both juxta-anastomotic intimal area and total intimal area were reduced in PTP-treated vessels compared to control vessels. Specifically, intimal area was 0.024 ± 0.018 and 0.095 ± 0.089 mm for PTP-treated juxta-anastomotic segments of AVF and control, respectively (P < 0.05). Mean total intimal area for PTP-treated and control AVF were 0.080 ± 0.042 and 0.190 ± 0.110 mm, respectively (P < 0.03). AVF flow was 46.9 ± 35.3 and 19.1 ± 10.1 mL/min for PTP-treated and control AVF, respectively (P < 0.109). CONCLUSIONS These data demonstrate that PTP represents a promising therapy for the prevention of AVF IH, a process that might improve surgical outcomes for patients receiving hemodialysis.
Improvement of bandwidth limitation and chromatic- dispersion tolerances using 4-level/7-level coding PAM for direct-detection system

We have achieved improved bandwidth limitation and chromatic-dispersion tolerances in a 4-level/7-level coding PAM scheme for a direct-detection system. Simulation results showed the scheme enabled improved 112-Gb/s transmission. The scheme's feasibility was also experimentally confirmed.
(Post?)qualitative inquiry in sport, exercise, and health: notes on a methodologically contested present

AbstractIn this article, I address some of the emerging debates surrounding the ontological turn in qualitative inquiry. To do so, I highlight recent conversations in the field related to evidence, knowledge and research practices. Framing these conversations as part of a broader ‘methodologically contested present’ within qualitative inquiry, I attend to the ways in which qualitative researchers in the field of sport, exercise and health-related disciplines are pushing these conversations forward. As well, I highlight key questions and the ramifications thereof for engaging with what has been termed ‘post-qualitative inquiry’. I conclude by offering several points of departure for situating the philosophy of inquiry at the centre of any debate concerning research methods and methodologies.
Chromate Binding and Removal by the Molybdate-Binding Protein ModA

Effective and cheap methods and techniques for the safe removal of hexavalent chromate from the environment are in increasingly high demand. High concentrations of hexavalent chromate have been shown to have numerous harmful effects on human biology. We show that the E. coli molybdate-binding protein ModA is a genetically encoded tool capable of removing chromate from aqueous solutions. Although previously reported to not bind chromate, we show that ModA binds chromate tightly and is capable of removing chromate to levels well below current US federal standards.
Responses of bromelain in a human cell screening assay for melanoma prevention

B145 A human cell chemoprevention assay has been developed in our laboratory to identify agents that alter biomarkers with relevance to melanoma development. The assay uses the radial growth phase-like melanoma cell line, WM3211, and co-exposure to 25 mJ/cm2 UVB irradiation. E-cadherin induction and N-cadherin inhibition were included as biomarkers due to their relevance to the control normal melanocyte growth and differentiation and the changes in the N-cadherin/E-cadherin ratios during melanoma development. Given the importance of the E-cadherin/N-cadherin homeostatic tissue controls that are found in normal melanocytes and the E-cadherin to N-cadherin switch that is found in the conversion from normal melanocytes to metastatic melanoma, these two endpoints appear to be very relevant for identifying possible melanoma prevention activity. Caspase 3 induction was included as a biomarker for apoptosis. The induction of HLA-ABC expression, which is reduced during the conversion to melanoma and facilitates immune surveillance system, was also selected. The human cell assay for melanoma prevention was used to evaluate bromelain, an extract from the pineapple plant stem that is reported to have anticancer activities both in vitro and in vivo. Bromelain was tested in the assay at six half-log concentrations ranging from 0.3 to 100 μg/mL. Bromelain induced E-cadherin at all concentrations evaluated. N-cadherin was inhibited by five of the six concentrations. Caspase 3 was induced by five of six concentrations and HLA ABC was induced by two of six concentrations. The biomarker responses observed in the human cell screening assay suggest that bromelain may have the potential to prevent melanoma. >Supported by NCI Contract # N01-CN-15030.
Abstract 3901: Therapeutic targeting of C-terminal binding protein: a key dependency for polyposis and cancer stem cell activity inAPCmutant neoplasia

The C terminal binding proteins (CtBP) 1 and 2 are a family of transcriptional co-repressors overexpressed in a variety of cancers, and are frequently associated with poor prognosis and chemoresistance. CtBP has also been characterized in cell culture models as drivers of migration/invasion and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. CtBP mediates its transcriptional corepressor activity via its dehydrogenase domain, and inhibition of this domain interferes with CtBP oncogenic functions. The role of CtBP in APC mutant neoplasia remains obscure even though APC is responsible for degradation of both β-catenin and CtBP in suppressing colorectal tumorigenesis. Our prior work demonstrates that CtBP proteins can be effectively therapeutically targeted with substrate analogues of their intrinsic dehydrogenase domains. We now observe that pharmacologic inhibition of CtBP using either the 1st generation inhibitor 2-keto-4-methylthiobutyrate (MTOB) or the 2nd generation inhibitor hydroxyimino-3-phenylpropanoic acid (HIPP) significantly reduces the burden of intestinal polyps in the Apcmin mouse model of the human cancer predisposition syndrome Familial Adenomatous Polyposis. The number of intestinal polyps in mice with CtBP2 inhibitors were significantly lower (21 polyps/mouse for MTOB, 15 polyps/mouse for HIPP) as compared with vehicle treated mice (45 polyps/mouse) with a P value Citation Format: Ayesha T. Chawla, Agnes Cororaton, Rashmi Seth, Barbara Szomju, Evan T. Sumner, Steven R. Grossman. Therapeutic targeting of C-terminal binding protein: a key dependency for polyposis and cancer stem cell activity in APC mutant neoplasia [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2017; 2017 Apr 1-5; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2017;77(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 3901. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2017-3901
Improving magnetosphere in situ observations using solar sails

Abstract Past and current magnetosphere missions employ conventional spacecraft formations for in situ observations of the geomagnetic tail. Conventional spacecraft flying in inertially fixed Keplerian orbits are only aligned with the geomagnetic tail once per year, since the geomagnetic tail is always aligned with the Earth-Sun line, and therefore, rotates annually. Solar sails are able to artificially create sun-synchronous orbits such that the orbit apse line remains aligned with the geomagnetic tail line throughout the entire year. This continuous presence in the geomagnetic tail can significantly increase the science phase for magnetosphere missions. In this paper, the problem of solar sail formation design is explored using nonlinear programming to design optimal two-craft, triangle, and tetrahedron solar sail formations, in terms of formation quality and formation stability. The designed formations are directly compared to the formations used in NASA’s Magnetospheric Multi-Scale mission.
Cryo-EM structure of the bacteriophage T4 isometric head at 3.3-Å resolution and its relevance to the assembly of icosahedral viruses

The 3.3-A cryo-EM structure of the 860-A-diameter isometric mutant bacteriophage T4 capsid has been determined. WT T4 has a prolate capsid characterized by triangulation numbers (T numbers) Tend = 13 for end caps and Tmid = 20 for midsection. A mutation in the major capsid protein, gp23, produced T=13 icosahedral capsids. The capsid is stabilized by 660 copies of the outer capsid protein, Soc, which clamp adjacent gp23 hexamers. The occupancies of Soc molecules are proportional to the size of the angle between the planes of adjacent hexameric capsomers. The angle between adjacent hexameric capsomers is greatest around the fivefold vertices, where there is the largest deviation from a planar hexagonal array. Thus, the Soc molecules reinforce the structure where there is the greatest strain in the gp23 hexagonal lattice. Mutations that change the angles between adjacent capsomers affect the positions of the pentameric vertices, resulting in different triangulation numbers in bacteriophage T4. The analysis of the T4 mutant head assembly gives guidance to how other icosahedral viruses reproducibly assemble into capsids with a predetermined T number, although the influence of scaffolding proteins is also important.
Effects of High-Velocity Circuit Resistance and Treadmill Training on Cardiometabolic Risk, Blood Markers, and Quality of Life in Older Adults

The presence of cardiometabolic syndrome (CMS) confers an increased risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and mortality and is associated with reduced health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Although the effects of exercise on biomarkers, HRQoL, and future risk have been studied, no study has measured the effects on all three components. The present study compared the effects of steady-state, moderate-intensity treadmill training (TM) and high-velocity circuit resistance training (HVCRT) on biological markers, HRQoL, and overall CVD risk in adults with CMS and CVD risk factors. Thirty participants (22 females, 8 males) were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 groups: HVCRT, TM, or control. Participants in the exercise groups attended training 3 days/week for a total of 12 weeks. Of the 30 participants who began the study, 24 (19 females, 5 males) were included in the final analysis. Primary outcome measures included CMS criteria, hemodynamic measures, Framingham Risk Score (FRS), and HRQoL. All variables were measured pre- and post-intervention. CMS z score significantly decreased for HVCRT (p = 0.03), while there were no significant changes for TM or control. FRS significantly decreased for HVCRT compared with TM (p = 0.03) and control (p = 0.03). Significant decreases in systolic (p < 0.01) and diastolic blood pressures (p < 0.01) for HVCRT accompanied significant increases from baseline in stroke volume (p = 0.03) and end-diastolic volume (p < 0.01). Systemic vascular resistance significantly decreased (p = 0.05) for HVCRT compared with control. Emotional well-being significantly improved following HVCRT and TM compared with control (p = 0.04; p = 0.03). HVCRT represents a novel training modality that improved factors in each of the 3 components assessed.
Optimal and adaptive mismatch filtering for stretch processing

Traditional stretch processing performs match filtering using a Fourier transform, which is essentially the matched filter bank for an LFM waveform mixed with an LFM reference. Here we consider how optimal least-squares based mismatched filtering could be used in place of the Fourier transform. This notion is then taken a step further with the formulation of an adaptive transformation. These new stretch processing filter structures are demonstrated in simulation and experimentally using open-air measurements, with the enhancements they enable applicable to a wide variety of legacy systems.
Declarative algorithms for generation, counting and random sampling of term algebras

From a declarative variant of Remy's algorithm for uniform random generation of binary trees, we derive a generalization to term algebras of an arbitrary signature. With trees seen as sets of edges connecting vertices labeled with logic variables, we use Prolog's multiple-answer generation mechanism to derive a generic algorithm that counts terms of a given size, generates them all, or samples a random term given the signature of a term algebra. As applications, we implement generators for term algebras defining Motzkin trees, use all-term and random-term generation for mutual cross-testing and describe an extension mechanism that transforms a random sampler for Motzkin trees into one for closed lambda terms.
Ductal Carcinoma Antigen: Characteristics, Tissue Distribution and Capacity to Represent a Target for Monoclonal Antibody Therapy

Murine monoclonal antibody F36/22 was generated against the human breast carcinoma cell line MCF-7. The antibody reacts strongly with selected carcinoma cell lines and insignificantly against cell lines of mesenchymal derivation. No reactivity versus normal blood elements, bone marrow components or lymph nodes has been detected. Antigen is highly expressed in primary malignant tumors of ductal lineage to the virtual exclusion of lymphomas, sarcomas and non-ductal carcinomas, hence the designation Ductal Carcinoma Antigen. A small number of normal ductal structures also produce the antigen, although at greatly reduced levels. The antigen is found in the circulation of breast cancer patients where its exists as a high molecular weight glycoprotein. Purified antigen exhibits high density and a significant amount of carbohydrate content, thus resembling a mucin-like structure. The antibody-combining region also represents a carbohydrate component which is released upon alkaline-borohydride cleavage. The antigen behaves as an effective target in vitro for antibody dependent cytotoxicity as mediated both with complement and effector cells. Further, the passive administration of monoclonal antibody F36/22 results in a rapid decrease in the volume of human tumor xenografts as grown on athymic mice. The usefulness of this murine system as a pre-clinical model for human immunotherapies is under study.
On the geometric mean of a pair of oriented, meromorphic foliations, Part I

The geometric mean of a pair of oriented, meromorphic foliations on a Riemann surface is an unoriented foliation; the quadratic differential defining the latter is the product of the linear differentials defining the former. For instance, geometric means of pairs of oriented circle pencils in the Riemann sphere may be used to represent confocal families of (Euclidean or non-Euclidean) conics.
A memetic algorithm for the generalised machine layout problem

Designing efficient machine layouts is a key issue to ensure profitability in manufacturing environments. The major decisions in designing machine layouts are: the selection of machines (including machine replicas); the assigning of machines to the plant floor; the selection of production mix (i.e., determine the products to be produced); and the assigning of products to machines (i.e., determining the product flows). The generalised machine layout problem (GMALP) integrates these factors under a single problem. The contribution of this paper is the development of a memetic algorithm for the GMALP. The memetic algorithm takes advantage of the diversification strategies of the genetic algorithm combined with the intensification strategies of tabu search. Results obtained with the memetic algorithm compares favourably with the results presented in the literature.
Factors influencing pre-fledging mass recession by nestling Tree Swallows (Tachycineta bicolor)

ABSTRACT Nestlings of some aerial insectivores experience pre-fledging mass recession, possibly to achieve optimum wing loading at fledging. However, studies to date where mass recession was linked...
373 TRENDS IN ADULT HEPATITIS B VACCINATION STATUS: IMPROVEMENT OR COHORT EFFECT?

Background Hepatitis B vaccination of infants and adolescents has been successful in the United States. The trends in adult immunization are not as clear. Objective To determine the trends in hepatitis B vaccination prevalence among high-risk adults across the years 2000, 2002, and 2004. To examine the effect of age on these trends and the factors associated with vaccination receipt. Methods We used National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) 2000, 2002, and 2004 data to examine the trends in hepatitis B vaccination coverage among adults, 18 to 49 years of age, with self-reported high-risk behaviors. Health care workers were not included. Subgroup analyses within age groups (18-29, 30-39, 40-49) by survey year were conducted to assess the vaccination prevalence status by age groups across 3 survey years. Factors independently associated with vaccination receipt were determined by a multivariate model fitted to the 3 years of data. SUDAAN was used for statistical analysis to account for the NHIS complex survey design. Results There was a significant increasing trend in the prevalence of vaccination status across the 3 survey years (2000 = 32.6%; 2002 = 35.3%; 2004 = 41.4%; trend test p = .001). When examined by age groups, the increase in vaccination was significant only in the 18 to 29 years age group (2004 vs 2000; 52.7% vs 41.4%; p = .02). Compared with the year 2000, the 18 to 29 years age group was more likely to be vaccinated in the year 2004 after adjusting for relevant confounders (OR 1.73, 95% CI 1.14-2.6), and there was no significant increase in odds of vaccination for other age groups (30-39 and 40-49 years) between the years 2000 and 2004. The independent predictors of vaccination are survey year, age, education status, receipt of influenza or pneumococcal vaccination, and testing for HIV. An inverse association was noted between age and odds of vaccination (OR [CI] for 18-20, 21-25, 26-30, 31-40, 41-49 age strata are 4.61 [2.87-7.41], 3.02 [2.14-4.27[, 2.07 [1.45-2.96], 1.42 [1.06-1.91], 1.00, respectively). Conclusions There was a significant trend toward higher hepatitis B vaccination status with time among high-risk adults. This trend, significant only in the younger age group, suggests a ‘cohort effect’ caused by successfully vaccinated adolescents reaching young adulthood. Successful strategies should be developed and implemented to improve hepatitis B immunization rates among high-risk adults, particularly among older adults, to achieve the goal of successful elimination of hepatitis B from the United States.
Differential expression of efferocytosis and phagocytosis associated genes in tumor associated macrophages exposed to African American patient derived prostate cancer microenvironment.

Macrophages are the first line of defense in the cellular environment in response to any antigenic or foreign invasion. Since cancer cells express antigenic molecules and create a tumor microenvironment quite different from the normal cellular environment, macrophages will attack this cancer cells as foreign Invaders. However, the cancer cells adept their ability to suppress macrophage activity by secreting compounds/proteins through unknown mechanisms and train these macrophages to aid in tumorigenesis. These macrophages are commonly known as tumor associated macrophages (TAM). In this study, our goal was to find out key regulatory molecules involved in this conversion of cancer-fighting macrophages to cancer friendly macrophages. We used African American(AA) patient derived established human prostate cancer cells along with the human derived macrophages followed by Affymetrix cDNA microarray analysis. Microarray analysis of the PCa cell exposed macrophages revealed appreciable decrease in mRNA expression of several genes associated with phagocytosis process. Aberrant expression of several noncoding RNAs that control the expression of such phagocytosis associated molecules were also evident. Increased expression of oncogenic miR such as, miR-148, 615, 515, 130, 139 and markedly decreased expression of tumor suppressive miR’s MiR-3130, let7c,101,103, 383 were noted. Further, TARGET SCAN analysis demonstrated these differential expression of non-coding RNA’s causing down regulation of phagocytosis promoting genes elf5A, Meg3, Tubb5, Sparcl-1, Uch-1, Bsg(CD147), Ube2v, GULP, Stabilin 1 and Pamr1. There is an increase of RAP1GAP gene that causes concomitant decrease in the expression of tubulin genes that promote cytoskeletal assembly in forming phagosomes. In addition Ingenuity pathway analysis of the gene expression data also showed upregulation of antiphagocytic genes IL-10, CD16, IL-18 and MMP-9. Some core canonical pathways showing physiology of cellular signaling obtained by data analyzed by the Ingenuity software is confirmed a very complex mechanism still to be deciphered involved in the biology of TAM formation by which the rogue cancer cells tame their enemies, the macrophages and actually make them their helper cells to survive and propagate in the tumor microenvironment and thus prepare for epithelial mesenchymal transition for future metastasis and cancer stem cell formation and progression.
Peripheral Neuropathy in Rheumatologic Disorders

The peripheral neuropathies (PNs) are a broad group of disorders that affect the axons, myelin sheath, anterior horn cells, and/or sensory neurons in the peripheral nervous system (PNS). Peripheral nerve injury is a common manifestation of rheumatologic disease, reflecting the susceptibility of the PNS and its support structures to injury related to maladaptive auto-inflammatory responses. PNs are distinguished physiologically by the type(s) of nerve fibers or neurons affected and by the relative degree to which the axons or their myelin sheaths are damaged. They can also be distinguished clinically by neuropathic syndrome, defined by acuity or pace, distribution (multifocal, length-dependent, or segmental), and modality (sensory, motor, autonomic, or a combination). Though the underlying pathophysiology helps define the syndrome, it is not always apparent upon clinical evaluation and usually requires electrodiagnostic or pathologic clarification.
Characterizing urban butterfly populations: the case for purposive point-count surveys

Developing effective butterfly monitoring strategies is key to understanding how butterflies interact with urban environments, and, in turn, to developing local conservation practices. We investigated two urban habitat types (public gardens and restored/reconstructed prairies) and compared three survey methods (Pollard transects, purposive point counts, and random point counts) to determine which was most productive for detecting butterflies and assessing family diversity. We conducted 66 butterfly surveys by using each method (198 total) from May through September in 2015 and 2016 at six sites (three public gardens and three prairies) in Ames, Ankeny and Des Moines, Iowa. All survey methods were used on 11 sampling dates at each site. Overall, we observed 2,227 butterflies representing 38 species: 1,076 in public gardens and 1,151 in prairie areas. We used a smaller data set standardized for survey effort, including 1,361 of these sightings, to compare survey methods and habitat types. Although there were no significant differences in number of butterfly sightings between the two habitats, more sightings (798) were documented by using purposive point counts when compared to Pollard transects (297) or random point counts (266) (for both comparisons, p < 0.0001). Occupancy modeling also indicated that purposive point counts were most effective in detecting certain species of butterflies, most notably those within the Pieridae (whites, sulphurs) and Papilionidae (swallowtails). We conclude that public gardens and restored/reconstructed prairies in urban settings can provide important butterfly habitat, and that purposive point-count surveys are most effective for detecting butterflies in these relatively small-scale landscape features.