cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Zinc-finger domains of the transcriptional repressor KLF15 bind multiple sites in rhodopsin and IRBP promoters including the CRS-1 and G-rich repressor elements

In the retina, many of the genes that encode components of the visual transduction cascade and retinoid recycling are exclusively expressed in photoreceptor cells and show highly stereotyped temporal and spatial expression patterns. Multiple transcriptional activators of photoreceptor-specific genes have been identified, but little is known about negative regulation of gene expression in the retina. We recently identified KLF15, a member of the Sp/Kruppel-like Factor family of zinc-finger containing transcription factors, as an in vitro repressor of the promoters of the photoreceptor-specific genes rhodopsin and IRBP/Rbp3. To gain further insight into the mechanism of KLF15-mediated regulation of gene expression, we have characterized the binding characteristics and specificity of KLF15's DNA binding domains and defined the KLF15 binding sites in the rhodopsin and IRBP promoters. In EMSA and DNAseI footprinting assays, a KLF15-GST fusion protein containing the C-terminal zinc-finger domains (123 amino acids) showed zinc-dependent and sequence-specific binding to a 9 bp consensus sequence containing a core CG/TCCCC. Both the bovine rhodopsin and IRBP promoters contained multiple KLF15 binding sites that included the previously identified CRS-1 and G-rich repressor elements. KLF15 binding sites were highly conserved between the bovine, human, chimp and dog rhodopsin promoters, but less conserved in rodents. KLF15 reduced luciferase expression by bRho130-luc (containing 4 KLF15 sites) and repressed promoter activation by CRX (cone rod homeobox) and/or NRL (neural retina leucine zipper), although the magnitude of the reduction was smaller than previously reported for a longer bRho225-luc (containing 6 KFL15 sites). KLF15 binds to multiple 9 bp consensus sites in the Rhodospin and IRBP promoters including the CRS-1 and G-rich repressor elements. Based on the known expression pattern of KLF15 in non-photoreceptor cells, we hypothesize an in vivo role for KLF15 in repressing photoreceptor-specific gene expression in the inner retina.
Simulation of flow around a thin, flexible obstruction by means of a deforming grid overlapping a fixed grid

This paper presents a numerical method for simulation of coupled flows, in which the fluid interacts with a thin deformable solid, such as flows in cardiovascular valves. The proposed method employs an arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian (ALE) method for flow near the solid, embodied in the outflow domain in which the mesh is fixed. The method was tested by modelling a two-dimensional channel flow with a neo-Hookean obstacle, an idealization of the coupled flow near a cardiovascular valve. The effects of the Reynolds number and the dimensionless elastic modulus of the material on the wall shear stress, the size of the downstream reverse flows, and the velocity and pressure profiles were investigated. The deformation of the obstacle, the pressure drop across the obstacle, and the size of the top reverse flow increased as the Reynolds number increased. Conversely, increasing the elastic modulus of the obstacle decreased the deformation of the obstacle and the size of the top reverse flows, but did not affect the pressure drop across the obstacle over the range studied. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Emerging relationships: rheumatoid arthritis and the PTPN22 associated autoimmune disorders

The complexity and variety of autoimmune diseases and phenotypes is a source of continuing fascination and frustration for both physicians and scientists. Even in the setting of exciting advances in understanding the molecular basis of immune recognition and regulation, the fundamental causes of the autoimmune diseases are unknown, and it is still unclear to what extent these diseases are pathogenically related. The mere presence of autoimmune phenomena is not a compelling unifying feature, since these phenomena can occur in a variety of circumstances, including in normal subjects. Studies in animal models and the discovery of a few rare highly penetrant genes involved in human polyendocrine syndromes [1], have provided some direct evidence that abnormalities in thymic selection [2] can cause autoimmunity in humans. However, it is still not clear to what extent altered thymic selection operates in the more common autoimmune diseases [3], and other peripheral regulatory mechanisms are also likely to be important [4, 5]. Comprehensive genetic analysis in humans is one of the most promising avenues of gaining insight into this question. In the last few years, this approach has begun to bear fruit. The intracellular tyrosine phosphatase, PTPN22, has recently been associated with a variety of autoimmune diseases, including type 1 diabetes [6], rheumatoid arthritis [7], systemic lupus [8] and autoimmune thyroid disease [9–11]. These discoveries have provided some of the first direct evidence that these diseases are genetically related, and also raise a host of new questions to be addressed. As discussed in this review, the example of PTPN22 illustrates how human genetics is likely to provide new insights into pathogenesis and unravel new relationships among the autoimmune diseases.
Code Inflation

Much of the increase in the size of software applications is unnecessary. The history of the tiny Unix /bin/true command illustrates this growth.
Metaphors as Tools for Restructuring Knowledge: Metaphor-Based Learning about Computer Systems

We hypothesize that metaphor-based training provides a mechanism for creating knowledge structures (schemas) in declarative memory which permit learners to acquire information rapidly. An experiment to test this hypothesis involved: (1) pre-training, in which subjects' schematic knowledge structures were assessed using the Pathfinder algorithm; (2) metaphor-based training, in which one of five common domains served as the vehicle and the user interface for a computer served as the tenor; and (3) post-training that reassessed the schematic structures and tested user knowledge. The similarity of Pathfinder networks for the vehicle and tenor predicted performance during training, (2) performance during training predicted post-training similarity of the vehicle and tenor networks, and (3) post-training similarity of vehicle and tenor networks predicted aspects of post-training metaphor knowledge. The results support metaphor-based restructuring as a mechanism for rapid learning about computer systems.
Agrypon caribbaeum, a New Species of Ichneumon Wasp (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) from the U.S. Virgin Islands

A new ichneumon wasp, Agrypon caribbaeum , was reared from pupae of the melonworm, Diaphania hyalinata (L.) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), on St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands. Wasps emerged from 34% of the pupae and may merit further study as a biocontrol agent of melonworms. Adult A. caribbaeum are described.
Control of cyclic photoinitiated electron transfer between cytochrome c peroxidase (W191F) and cytochrome c by formation of dynamic binary and ternary complexes.

Extensive studies of the physiological protein–protein electron-transfer (ET) complex between yeast cytochrome c peroxidase (CcP) and cytochrome c (Cc) have left unresolved questions about how formation and dissociation of binary and ternary complexes influence ET. We probe this issue through a study of the photocycle of ET between Zn-protoporphyrin IX-substituted CcP(W191F) (ZnPCcP) and Cc. Photoexcitation of ZnPCcP in complex with Fe3+Cc initiates the photocycle: charge-separation ET, [3ZnPCcP, Fe3+Cc] → [ZnP+CcP, Fe2+Cc], followed by charge recombination, [ZnP+CcP, Fe2+Cc] → [ZnPCcP, Fe3+Cc]. The W191F mutation eliminates fast hole hopping through W191, enhancing accumulation of the charge-separated intermediate and extending the time scale for binding and dissociation of the charge-separated complex. Both triplet quenching and the charge-separated intermediate were monitored during titrations of ZnPCcP with Fe3+Cc, Fe2+Cc, and redox-inert CuCc. The results require a photocycle that includes dissociati...
Abstract 5323: Fractalkine receptor CX3CR1 regulates peritoneal dissemination of ovarian carcinoma

Epithelial ovarian carcinoma (EOC) is the deadliest gynecologic malignancy largely due to the metastatic disease. EOC metastases spread by shedding the malignant cells off of the ovarian surface and seeding tissues and organs of the peritoneal cavity. Currently used therapies, a combination of chemotherapy and surgery, fail to keep most patients in the remission. Mechanistic understanding of the biology of EOC metastasis will facilitate development of new therapeutic approaches. Our previous data demonstrated that fractalkine receptor (CX3CR1) is expressed by EOC cells and can support cell migration and proliferation. Moreover, our previous data suggested that CX3CR1-positive EOC cells can adhere to the CX3CL1-postive peritoneal mesothelial cells in in vitro assay. Thus, we hypothesized that CX3CL1/CX3CR1 axis could be important for peritoneal dissemination of metastatic EOC. To test this hypothesis, we performed short-term ex vivo and in vivo adhesion assay, as well as long-term metastasis formation assay. Expression of CX3CR1 in EOC cells was downregulated in SKOV-3 using shRNA. Both CX3CR1 shRNA-expressing and scrambled shRNA-expressing EOC cells were seeded atop of mouse peritoneum and omentum tissues in the ex vivo assay and allowed to adhere for up to 24 h. CX3CR1 shRNA-expressing and scrambled shRNA-expressing EOC cells were intraperitoneally injected into abdomens of athymic nude mice for 4 h following sacrifice of the animals and examination of the peritoneal organs and tissues for green fluorescence. Data analysis has demonstrated that downregulation of CX3CR1 in EOC cells led to a significant decrease of adhesion in these assays. Furthermore, parental SKOV-3 as well as CX3CR1 shRNA-, scrambled shRNA-, and vector shRNA-expressing cells were intraperitoneally injected into athymic nude mice and allowed to form metastasis for 10 weeks. As a result, we observed very small omental metastatic lesions in three out of six animals injected with CX3CR1 shRNA-expressing cells. In opposite, all of the control groups developed gross intraperitoneal metastasis in many organs and tissues. Our data suggest that CX3CR1 may be one of the key factors that determine peritoneal dissemination of EOC. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 5323. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-5323
Characterization of light emission from mechanoluminescent composites subjected to high-rate compressive loading(Conference Presentation)

This study aims to devise multifunctional composites using fracto-mechanoluminescent (FML) materials and photoactive sensing thin films for autonomous and self-powered impact damage detection. In previous studies, multifunctional photoactive thin films were suggested as a strain sensor that does not require any external electrical source. Instead, the photoactive thin films generated direct current (DC) (or photocurrent) under ambient light, whose magnitude varied linearly with applied strain. In this study, multifunctional FML materials-photoactive thin film composites will be devised for autonomously sensing high-speed compressive strains without supplying any external photonic or electrical energy. FML materials exhibit transformative properties that emit light when its crystalline structures are fractured. The developed photoactive strain sensing thin film will be integrated with the FML materials. Thus, it is envisioned that the FML materials will emit light, which will be supplied to the photoactive sensing thin films when the high-speed compressive loadings break FML materials’ crystalline structures. First, synthesized europium tetrakit(dibenzoylmethide) triethylammonium (EuD4TEA) crystals will be embedded in the elastomeric and transparent polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) matrix to prepare test specimens. Second, the FML properties of the EuD4TEA-PDMS composites will be characterized at various compressive strains, which will be applied by Kolsky bar testing setup. Light emission from the EuD4TEA-PDMS test specimens will be recorded using a high-speed camera. Intensity of the light emissions will be quantified via image processing techniques by taking into account pixel profiles of the high-speed camera captured images (e.g., pixel values, counts of pixels, and RGB values) at various levels of compressive strains. Lastly, the autonomous high-speed compressive sensor modules will be fabricated by integrating the EuD4TEA-PDMS composites with the photoactive thin film sensor. Self-powered sensing capability will be validated by measuring DC at various compressive strains.
Aspects of perinatal endocrinology.

Because of their relevance to the practicing pediatrician and their paramount importance to the well being of the developing infant, the two aspects of perinatal endocrinology discussed are congenital hypothyroidism of the dystrophic type and congenital adrenal hyperplasia.
Relax then compensate: on max-product belief propagation and more

We introduce a new perspective on approximations to the maximum a posteriori (MAP) task in probabilistic graphical models, that is based on simplifying a given instance, and then tightening the approximation. First, we start with a structural relaxation of the original model. We then infer from the relaxation its deficiencies, and compensate for them. This perspective allows us to identify two distinct classes of approximations. First, we find that max-product belief propagation can be viewed as a way to compensate for a relaxation, based on a particular idealized case for exactness. We identify a second approach to compensation that is based on a more refined idealized case, resulting in a new approximation with distinct properties. We go on to propose a new class of algorithms that, starting with a relaxation, iteratively seeks tighter approximations.
Growth and characterization of TbAs films

We report on the molecular beam epitaxy growth and characterization of TbAs films. In situ reflection high energy electron diffraction and ex situ high resolution X-ray diffraction, reciprocal space mapping, and both scanning and transmission electron microscopy are used to confirm the complete film growth and study the films' morphology. Spectrophotometry measurements provide the energy of optical transitions, revealing a red shift in optical band gap with increasing thickness. The Hall effect measurements show temperature insensitive carrier concentrations, resistivities, and mobilities. The carrier concentration decreases and resistivity increases with increasing film thickness; mobility appears thickness independent. The films' reflectivity, obtained via Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, shows a possible Drude edge that differs from the trend of other lanthanide monopnictides. These measurements show that TbAs is a degenerately doped semiconductor with a combination of electronic and optical pr...
Dopaminergic Neuron-Specific Deletion of p53 Gene Attenuates Methamphetamine Neurotoxicity

p53 plays an essential role in the regulation of cell death in dopaminergic (DA) neurons and its activation has been implicated in the neurotoxic effects of methamphetamine (MA). However, how p53 mediates MA neurotoxicity remains largely unknown. In this study, we examined the effect of DA-specific p53 gene deletion in DAT-p53KO mice. Whereas in vivo MA binge exposure reduced locomotor activity in wild-type (WT) mice, this was significantly attenuated in DAT-p53KO mice and associated with significant differences in the levels of the p53 target genes BAX and p21 between WT and DAT-p53KO. Notably, DA-specific deletion of p53 provided protection of substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNpr) tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) positive fibers following binge MA, with DAT-p53KO mice having less decline of TH protein levels in striatum versus WT mice. Whereas DAT-p53KO mice demonstrated a consistently higher density of TH fibers in striatum compared to WT mice at 10 days after MA exposure, DA neuron counts within the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) were similar. Finally, supportive of these results, administration of a p53-specific inhibitor (PFT-α) provided a similarly protective effect on MA binge-induced behavioral deficits. Neither DA specific p53 deletion nor p53 pharmacological inhibition affected hyperthermia induced by MA binge. These findings demonstrate a specific contribution of p53 activation in behavioral deficits and DA neuronal terminal loss by MA binge exposure.
Lung Cancer Screening in Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Results from the National Lung Screening Trial (NLST) showed that annual lung cancer screening with low-dose computed tomography reduces lung cancer–related mortality. On the basis of NLST selection criteria, major health organizations have made recommendations regarding the population who should be
Unsupervised Kernel Correlations Based Hyperspectral Clustering With Missing Pixels

This paper focuses on unsupervised clustering of hyperspectral pixels whose intensity may not be available across certain spectral bands. The presence of statistical correlations among pixels that contain data originating from the same material is exploited here to develop a novel regularized correlation analysis framework to perform clustering. Kernel learning is integrated in a regularized correlations framework to exploit nonlinear dependencies of pixels acquiring information about similar materials. An effective technique is proposed to select the kernel mapping parameters and form pertinent kernel covariance matrices by proper weighted-averaging that takes into account the information content across the available spectral bands. The novel correlations framework will return proper sparse clustering matrices whose nonzero entries point to the correlated pixels. These matrices will be obtained via a minimization formulation that will be solved via computationally efficient subgradient descent iterations. The novel correlations formulation is applied in small-size pixel patches of the original hyperspectral image, while recursively bigger size patches are built that contain information about the same materials. Extensive numerical tests on real hyperspectral images reveal that the proposed approach, in spite of being unsupervised, can outperform existing supervised and unsupervised techniques especially in the presence of missing pixels.
Doppler Radar Noncontact Vital Sign Monitoring

This chapter presents the noncontact and noninvasive approach for monitoring human vital signs using Doppler radar sensor. The theory of noncontact vital sign detection is based on Doppler phase modulation. The system-level hardware architectures of the Doppler radar sensor have been illustrated. Research groups all over the world have been working for decades to improve the performance of Doppler radar noncontact vital sign detection. While some groups improved the performance from the hardware side, e.g., using quadrature receiver to avoid the null point problem, some groups took effort from the software side. For example, new demodulation techniques such as complex demodulation have been invented. System-on-chip (SoC) integration is also a major interest of the researchers working on Doppler radar sensors. With all the circuits integrated into one chip, the radar can be much smaller so as to be more portable or more easily integrated with other communication devices, e.g., cell phones. Several examples of radar sensor SoC have been introduced in this chapter. The Doppler radar sensor sees a bright future in medical applications. It is expected to bring enhanced healthcare in the near future. This chapter introduces the potential applications such as infants monitoring, sleep apnea detection, pulse wave velocity measurement, respiration measurement in motion-adaptive cancer radiotherapy, and so forth.
Addressing Health Literacy in the Inpatient Setting

This review seeks to provide a comprehensive approach to understanding the impact of and addressing health literacy for pediatric patients and families cared for in the hospital. Limited health literacy can impact clinical outcomes. Hospitalization presents unique challenges, as caregivers face the stress of a sick child and the need to navigate the complex medical system; families of children with medical complexity or limited English proficiency are particularly vulnerable groups. To address the problem, general principles should be applied to communication with all patients, including the use of plain language, counseling with techniques to confirm understanding, and assessing written tools for readability and understandability to ensure that care plans can be carried out at home. Health literacy is an important consideration for families of hospitalized children. Providers can communicate effectively to improve health outcomes by implementing general strategies for all patients.
Abstract 19423: ATF6 Serves a Novel Role as an Integrator of the Antioxidation and Adaptive ER Stress Responses in the Heart

Introduction: Secreted and membrane proteins are synthesized and folded in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). We previously showed that myocardial ischemia increases ER protein misfolding and activates the ER stress response, which is initially adaptive, fostering myocyte survival. However, if left unresolved, the ER stress response is maladaptive leading to myocyte death. ATF6 is an ER-transmembrane protein that senses misfolded proteins in the ER, and then becomes a transcription factor that induces ER stress response genes encoding ER proteins that adaptively restore ER protein folding. We previously showed that compared to non-transgenic mice, the hearts of ATF6 transgenic mice had better function and less damage upon ischemia/reperfusion (I/R); however, the mechanism of these protective effects is not known. Methods: Here, PCR gene array results showed that in cardiac myocytes, ATF6 induces genes encoding antioxidant proteins residing outside the ER, one of which is catalase. Thus, we explored the functions of ATF6-mediated catalase induction in the oxidative stress response during I/R in cardiac myocytes, in vitro and in vivo . Results: In vitro, overexpression of ATF6 in neonatal rat ventricular myocytes (NRVMs) induced protective ER stress response genes, while reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS), and necrotic cell death in cells treated with H 2 O 2 or simulated I/R (sI/R); ATF6 knockdown had the opposite effects. Catalase knockdown in NRVMs increased ROS, and necrotic cell death in cells treated with sI/R. ATF6 bound to putative ER stress response elements in the catalase gene and activated the catalase promoter. Mutation of these elements ablated ATF6 binding and ATF6-mediated catalase promoter activation. In vivo, compared to wild type, ATF6 knockout mouse hearts exhibited decreased catalase expression, reduced function and greater damage in response to myocardial infarction or I/R. Conclusions: This is the first demonstration in any cell type that ATF6 is critical for the adaptive oxidative stress response and the adaptive ER stress response, and describes a novel mechanism of ATF6-mediated protection of the heart from ischemic damage.
COMPUTER CONTROL IN SPARK IGNITION ENGINES

ABSTRACT A microprocessor based device for obtaining the optimal spark timing in a conventional spark ignition engine is introduced. It is well known that the spark timing is a crucial problem, the traditional mechanical solution, combining vacuum and centrifugal advance, while reasonably efficient, needs regular tuning and it leaves, theoretically, a good margin for improvement. The modern technique using a memory mapping of the optimal points is very good, but has to be introduced at the factory, it has to use special and expensive transducers and is sensitive to wear and ageing. Solutions which are simple but at the same time are a close approximation to the optimum ignition timing, for varying engine conditions, are at the moment still lacking. The method here presented uses unconstrained optimization techniques for determining the spark timing that maximizes the power output. When starting the engine there is a transient lasting a few engine revolutions while the device is searching for the optimum, once it is found the device keeps locked, following any fluctuation in the engine state. The sampling occurs once every two engine revolutions, or it can be reduced to once per revolution or half revolution. The distributor pulse train output is used; it is also possible to avoid the use of a distributor using an inductive coupling to the crankshaft. A better average performance of about 15% over standard mechanical systems has been obtained in the “power/fuel consumption ratio” and a very good performance has been observed during a transient speed change regime. The device is highly reliable, it has a low cost and it can be easily installed in any standard engine. Due to its closed loop design it can keep the optimum under conditions of mechanical misadjustements due to wear and ageing. Also, a significative reduction in noxious exhaust gases has been observed.
The FDSN Archive at the IRIS Data Management Center

In August of 1990, the IRIS Data Management Center (IRIS DMC) was designated as the first FDSN Data Center. Since that time the IRIS DMC has also come to be known as the FDSN Archive. As the FDSN Archive, all member networks, through their own local Network Data Centers, routinely send data to the IRIS DMC. At the present time we have received data from seven member networks. These include: CNSN (Canada); CDSN (China); GEOSCOPE (France); Graefenberg (Germany); IRIS GSN (U.S.A.); MEDNET (Italy); POSEIDON (Japan). In addition to acting as the FDSN Archive, the IRIS DMC is responsible for archiving and distributing data from several sources. The Global Seismographie Network (GSN) and the Program for Array Seismic Studies of the Continental Lithosphere (PASSCAL) and the Joint Seismic Program (JSP) are three IRIS programs that presently send data to the IRIS DMS. The DMC also archives data from some regional networks in the United States and in the Former Soviet Union (FSU). The DMC is one component of a larger Data Management System (DMS) consisting of several components including two Data Collection Centers (DCCs), one Data Management Center (DMQ, a DMC Host at the University of Washington, a Wave form Quality Center (WQC), and the Moscow Data Analysis Center (MDC) in Russia.
Puzzles and Paradoxes Involving Averages: An Intuitive Approach

Questions involving (re)aggregating parts into wholes are fundamental to all branches of scientific inquiry Saari (2001). After discussing two very general insights we derive from the aggregation literature, we look at how wholes may sometimes be reconstructed from their parts when we weight the parts appropriately, and we show that the notion of weighted averages can be used to make sense of seeming paradoxes: including how family income can go down even though per capita income is going up; how standardized test scores can go down even though the scores of every racial and ethnic group taking the test is going up; why most people think that roads are crowded even though most of the time there may be hardly any cars on the road; why teachers can teach mostly small classes, yet students can take mostly large ones; why George Bush could have won the Electoral College in 2000 even though he loses the popular vote; and why your friends can be expected to have more friends than you do.
Black-white differences in mortality in idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy: the Washington, DC, dilated cardiomyopathy study.

Racial, socioeconomic, and clinical factors were examined as predictors of survival in idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy using cases from five Washington, DC-area hospitals. One hundred three (80.5%) of the patients were black and 25 (19.5%) were white. The black patients were less likely to have private health insurance, less educated on average, and more likely to have a household income of $15,000 or less (P < or = .05). No racial differences were found in cardiac medication usage, with the exception of beta blockers and antiarrhythmics. The cumulative survival among black patients at 12 and 24 months was 71.5% and 63.6%, respectively, as compared with 92.0% and 86.3% among whites. The 12-month survival of black patients with ventricular arrhythmias or an ejection fraction of less than 25% was particularly poor. Age, ventricular arrhythmias, ejection fraction, and cigarette usage were significant predictors of survival in univariate analysis using the proportional hazards model. The univariate association with black race was of borderline significance (P < or = .07). In multivariate analysis, age and race were statistically significant independent predictors of survival. A strong association with black race was observed with an estimated relative risk of mortality of 5.41 (P < or = .02) after adjustment for age, ejection fraction, ventricular arrhythmias, and educational attainment. Poorer survival among blacks may be caused by a greater severity of disease at the time of diagnosis or by racial differences in cardiac care, comorbid conditions, or biologic factors affecting survival.
The Role of Harrington Instrumentation and Posterior Spine Fusion in the Management of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis

The Harrington instrumentation system was the first widely used, internationally accepted internal fixation system for the correction of idiopathic scoliosis when combined with a spinal arthrodesis. It has been generally available to the orthopedic surgeon for more than 25 years, and therefore its capabilities and limitations have been identified through this long experience. Its implantation requires minimal invasion of the spinal canal and is associated with a low (less than 0.5 per cent) incidence of neurologic complications. It provides predictable correction of spinal deformity with little subsequent loss of correction. When compared with other newer, more complex internal fixation systems for spinal deformities, the Harrington system has a shorter, less difficult "learning curve"; requires less operating time and blood loss to insert; implants a smaller mass of metal; and in some cases costs substantially less for the implant system. The Harrington system has an extremely low incidence of hook dislodgment and pseudoarthrosis formation in single thoracic curves, being reported as near zero for these curves in two recently published series. Conversely, there are some disadvantages to the Harrington system when compared with other types of fixation. It has limited ability to provide sagittal plane control. It does not effectively and predictably derotate the spine. A recent study showed that at an average of 4 years postoperatively, nearly two thirds of the patients had an actual increase in their rib prominence. The pseudoarthrosis rate is high, up to 4 per cent, in the thoracolumbar and lumbar spine. Hook dislodgment approaches 3 per cent when used below the thoracic region. Another disadvantage is the necessity for postoperative external support. As a result, the Harrington system remains an excellent means of treating single and double thoracic idiopathic curves in a safe and predictable manner, while admittedly having limited derotation and sagittal plane control. Other systems that are more sophisticated at segmental fixation of the spine appear to be more appropriate for scoliotic deformities requiring fusion of the thoracolumbar or lumbar spine and those associated with significant sagittal plane deformities.
Ets-2 interacts with co-repressor BS69 to repress target gene expression.

Background: The ETS-family of proteins consists of over 30 members that regulate the growth, differentiation and survival of both normal and tumor cells. How specificity is achieved within this family remains largely unresolved. One mechanism for attaining specificity is through the action of signaling pathways on specific family members. For example, Ets-2 is an activator modulated by ras-dependent phosphorylation of a single residue in the conserved pointed domain of this factor We hypothesized that phosphorylation of the pointed domain regulates the proteins that can interact with ets-2 in the cell nucleus, resulting in regulation of target genes. Materials and Methods: We used a combination of biochemical assays, yeast two-hybrid screens and transfection assays to identify and characterize proteins interacting with the pointed domain. Results: BS69, a known co-repressor, was identified in a yeast two hybrid screen as an ets-2 interacting partner. BS69 can interact with ets-2 in vivo and phosphorylation of the ets-2 pointed domain decreased the interaction with BS69 in vitro. In transfection assays, co-expression of ets-2 and BS69 resulted in repression of defined ets-2 target genes. Conclusion: These results support a role for ets-2 as a repressor and indicate that BS69 is required as co-repressor. Phosphorylation of ets-2 may switch its activity from repressor to activator by interfering with formation of the BS69 complex.
Modeling cation exchange in zeolitic nuclear waste form

Zeolites are currently being considered as an encapsulation material for high-level nuclear wastes. As a first step toward understanding the mechanisms of radionuclide migration in such molecular crystals, we apply an atomistic simulation approach to the study of ion exchange, which is assumed to be the underlying chemical process for the release of radioactive cations. Specifically, we investigate the Cs-Na cation exchange isotherm for dehydrated sodalite waste form. Our calculations indicate significant relaxation effects of the sodalite cage, in the form of displacement of cation adsorption sites and cage distortion.
BIOACTIVITY OF HUMAN GM-CSF GENE THERAPY IN METASTATIC RENAL CELL CARCINOMA AND PROSTATE CANCER

Ex vivo GM-CSF gene therapy using transduced non­ immunogenic tumor cells induces potent, curative T-cell mediated immune responses in animal models, including poorly immunogenic models of prostate cancer. These findings were translated into Phase I studies. A randomized, double-blinded study with autologous, irradiated renal cell carcinoma (RCC) vaccines was conducted after nephrectomy plus (transfected) or minus (non transfected) GM-CSF gene transfer in patients with metastatic RCC. No dose limiting toxicities were encountered in sixteen Stage IV fully evaluable patients. No autoimmune disease, including nepbritis, was noted. Induction of human T-cell mediated delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH) to autologous RCC and normal kidney was dependent on GM-CSF transfection and vaccine dose. The largest induced DTH after 28 days paralleled post-treatment partial clinical remission in the GM-CSF gene transfer group. Immunohistochemistry of skin biopsies at vaccine and DTH sites showed similar macrophage, T-cell, and eosinophil responses seen in murine models. No replication competent retrovirus was detected. Dose escalation continues in the prostate cancer Phase I trial, where bioactivity of antigen presentation is clearly observed in vivo at the lowest dose level. These Phase I studies demonstrated the feasibility and safety ofGM-CSF transfected, autologous tumor vaccines on an outpatient basis. Identification of immunodominant antigens is critical. These findings of dose dependent bioactivity and a partial clinical remission suggest that additional clinical studies are warranted in patients with minimal residual disease.
Sleep-disordered breathing, neuroendocrine function, and clinical SUDEP risk in patients with epilepsy

Abstract Introduction Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) is a major contributor to epilepsy-related mortality. It is associated with nocturnal seizures and centrally mediated postictal cardiorespiratory dysfunction (CRD), but mechanisms and contributors remain poorly understood. Methods We performed a prospective, cross-sectional, observational pilot study in the Columbia University Medical Center (CUMC) adult epilepsy monitoring unit (EMU) to explore relationships between periictal CRD, sleep-disordered breathing (SDB), neuroendocrine function, and clinical SUDEP risk. Thirty patients (twenty women, ten men) underwent video-electroencephalogram (EEG) with electrocardiogram (EKG) and digital pulse oximetry, inpatient or outpatient polysomnography (PSG), and comprehensive laboratory evaluation of sex steroid hormones. Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy risk was defined as Low (0–2) or High (≥ 3) using the revised SUDEP-7 Inventory. Sleep-disordered breathing was defined using standard criteria. Neuroendocrine dysfunction was defined as ≥ 1 laboratory abnormality. Results Cardiorespiratory dysfunction occurred more frequently in high-risk patients (60% vs. 27%, p = 0.018). Endocrine dysfunction was seen in 35% of patients, more in men (p = 0.018). Sleep-disordered breathing was found in 88% of fully scoreable PSGs. Conclusions There was no significant relationship between CRD, SDB, and neuroendocrine status, though all PSGs in those with high SUDEP risk or neuroendocrine dysfunction revealed SDB. Larger studies are needed to further elucidate relationships between CRD, SDB, neuroendocrine factors, and SUDEP.
Prognostic and predictive value of HPV status in metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck.

e18038Background: The prognostic and predictive value of human papillomavirus (HPV) status in metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) is unclear. Methods: A Surveillance, Ep...
Claims-based surveillance for reintervention after endovascular aneurysm repair among non-Medicare patients

Abstract Objective Many patients who undergo endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (EVR) also undergo repeat procedures, or reinterventions, to address suboptimal device performance and prevent aneurysm rupture. Quality improvement initiatives measuring reintervention after EVR has focused on fee-for-service Medicare patients. However, because patients aged less than 65 years and those with Medicare Advantage represent an important growing subgroup, we used a novel approach leveraging a state data source that captures patients of all ages and with all types of insurance. Methods We identified patients who underwent EVR (2011-2015) within the Vascular Quality Initiative registry and were also listed in the Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System all-payer claims database of New York. We linked patients in the Vascular Quality Initiative to their Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System claims file at the patient level with a 96% match rate. We compared outcomes between fee-for-service Medicare eligible, defined as age 65 or older or on dialysis, versus ineligible patients, defined as those younger than 65 and not on dialysis. Our primary outcome was reintervention. We used Cox proportional hazards regression and propensity score matching for risk adjustment. Results We studied 1285 patients with a median follow-up of 16 months (range, 1-57 months). The mean age was 74 years, 79% were male, and 84% of procedures were elective. Nearly one in six patients were not Medicare eligible (14%), and the remainder (86%) were Medicare eligible. Medicare-eligible patients were less likely to be male (77% vs 91%; P Conclusions Reintervention can be monitored using administrative claims from both Medicare and non-Medicare payers, and serve as an important outcome metric after EVR in patients of all ages. The rate of reintervention seems to be similar between older, Medicare-eligible individuals, and those who are not yet eligible.
The Chemical Development of CI-972 and CI-1000: A Continuous Nitration, A MgCl2/Et3N-Mediated C-Alkylation of a Chloronitropyrimidine, A Catalytic Protodediazotization of a Diazonium Salt, and an Air Oxidation of an Amine

Efficient, large-scale processes were developed for the preparation of the potent PNP inhibitors 2,6-diamino-3,5-dihydro-7-(3-thienylmethyl)-4H-pyrrolo[3,2-d]pyrimidin-4-one hydrochloride, monohydrate (1) and 2-amino-3,5-dihydro-7-(3-thienylmeth-yl)-4H-pyrrolo[3,2-d]pyrimidin-4-one hydrochloride, monohydrate (2). We report (1) a safe, continuous nitration process for the preparation of 2-amino-6-chloro-5-nitro-4-pyrimidinol (8a) and its stable diisopropylamine salt (8b), (2) the first MgCl2/Et3N-mediated C-alkylation of a chloronitropyrimidine, (3) a rare catalytic protodediazotization of the diazonium salt 2-amino-4-oxo-7-thiophen-3-ylmethyl-4,5-dihydro-3H-pyrrolo[3,2-d]pyrimidine-6-diazonium chloride (14), (4) a single-step process to prepare 2 directly from 2-amino-6-hydroxy-5-nitro-α-(3-thienylmethyl)-4-pyrimidineacetonitrile (12) using a sponge nickel-catalyzed reduction, and (5) a method to convert the over-reduction by-product 2,5-diamino-6-(1-aminomethyl-2-thiophen-3-yl-ethyl)-pyrimidin-4-ol (16) ...
Pursuing Deep Equity in “Blended” Classrooms: Exploring the In-Person Teacher Role in Supporting Low-Income Youth through Computer-Based Learning:

Background/ContextEfforts to increase low-income, underrepresented students’ access to coursework increasingly tap computer-based course materials. Yet as we turn increasingly to computers for inst...
Integrating Core Sustainability Meta-Competencies and SDGs Across the Silos in Curriculum and Professional Development

Debra Rowe, president of the U.S. Partnership for Education for Sustainable Development has challenged us to go beyond educating students with conceptual knowledge, rather to develop capacities to become agents for systemic change. This means integrating values, attitudes, behavior, and ethics into classrooms. Penn State University Sustainability Institute research findings articulated five sustainability meta-competencies for sustainability: system thinking, temporal thinking, interpersonal literacy, ethical literacy, and creativity/imagination. For the practitioner, this means experimenting and assessing different ways to integrate these meta-competencies into curricula. This presentation provides examples using guided inquiry with peer-to-peer learning with team wiki projects, case studies, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and reflection essays using Digication ePortfolio, Blackboard, and self-assessment exercises and instruments. We present some interesting comparisons of the New Ecological Paradigm – Revised instrument metrics and the SuLiTest Sustainability Literacy self-assessment before and after the course for classes and individuals. Limitations of these instruments and alternative quantitative and qualitative instruments are discussed. A faculty development workshop template for sustainability across the curriculum with the sustainability meta-competencies and SDGs has been developed from this experience and an Association for the Advancement of Sustainability and Higher Education (AASHE) inter- and multi-disciplinary bioregion faculty development workshop template.
New Generation Smart Substations

Abstract With the changing mode of power grid development, the innovation and development of management model, the smart substation has entered a comprehensive construction stage. In this chapter, the technology of a new generation smart substation is introduced, including its characteristics, primary system, secondary system, network technology and information flow, and technology of prefabricated cabin for secondary device. For each part, the composition and characteristics of the technology are proposed and investigated, together with their application in new generation substations. With these new technologies, the aims of high degree of integration system, reasonable structure, advanced equipment, and economic energy saving are expected to be achieved.
Reliability of Human Lumbar Facet Joint Degeneration Severity Assessed by Magnetic Resonance Imaging.

Abstract Objective The purpose of this study was to determine the reliability of the assessment of lumbar facet joint degeneration severity by analyzing degeneration subscales using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in human participants. Methods The reliability of articular cartilage degeneration, subchondral bone sclerosis, and osteophyte formation subscales of lumbar facet joint degeneration severity was assessed in MRI images from n = 10 human participants. Each scale was applied to n = 20 lumbar facet joints (L4/5 level). Three examiners were trained. A first assessment of MRI images was provided by the examiners followed by a second assessment 30 days later. Intraobserver and interobserver reliability were determined using percent agreement, the weighted kappa coefficient κw for paired comparisons, and the overall weighted kappa κo. The minimum threshold for reliability was set at moderate levels of agreement, κw > 0.40, based upon previous recommendations. Results The articular cartilage subscale had acceptable intraobserver (κo = 0.51) and interobserver (κo = 0.41) reliability. Scales for subchondral bone sclerosis (intraobserver κo = 0.28; interobserver κo = 0.10) and osteophyte formation (intraobserver κo = 0.26; interobserver κo = 0.20) did not achieve acceptable reliability. Conclusion Of the 3 subcategories of lumbar facet joint degeneration, only articular cartilage degeneration demonstrated acceptable reliability. Subscales of lumbar facet joint degeneration should be considered independently for reliability before combining subscales for a global degeneration score. Owing to the inherent difficulty of assessing lumbar facet joint degeneration, the use of multiple examiners independently assessing degeneration with reliable scales and then coming to a consensus score upon any disagreements is recommended for future clinical studies.
Global Distribution of the Fusulinacean Genus Biwaella

The Late Pennsylvanian-Cisuralian fusulinacean genus Biwaella Morikawa et Isomi, 1960 has been described from a number of tropical to subtropical Tethyan and Peri-Gondwanan localities along with sparse occurrences from the Boreal and Midcontinent-Andean faunal provinces. The present study provides a synthesis of the known global distribution and migratory timescales of Biwaella and describes the first occurrence of B. americana Skinner et Wilde, 1965 from Nevada, USA.
CHAPTER 4 – Mineral Cycles

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses plant processes by identifying the essential elements for growth and then explaining how these are acquired, stored, and internally recycled within vegetation before being returned through detritus production and leachate to the forest floor. It considers the relative importance of atmospheric inputs, biological fixation, and geologic weathering for supplying various nutrients to forest ecosystems. It focuses on litter processes to appreciate the slow rate at which detritus is converted to soil humus and the environmental factors that affect this important soil component. A discussion of soil processes follows to explain how soil profiles form and how shifts in the relative availability of nutrients may occur seasonally. The study also discusses those processes that hold minerals and nutrients within the soil profile, buffering the system against losses, and those that enhance losses through volatilization and leaching. Much larger losses of nutrients occur through erosion, harvesting, and fire. Direct measurement of all the variables important in mineral cycling requires a large investment in equipment and chemical analyses.