cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Building a Program that Cultivates Library Leaders from Within the Organization

Abstract These days few libraries can afford to hire new leaders to head teams, manage people and projects effectively, and contribute to the vision and direction of the organization. As organizational charts flatten increased levels of responsibility are expected of employees. These changes require libraries to increase the leadership skills of the talented librarians and staff members already working at their libraries. This paper describes a collaborative project between the University of Houston Libraries Training Committee and the University of Houston Human Resources Department (HR) in which emerging leaders within the library attended a semester-long intensive program designed to nurture Excellence in Library Leadership (ELLP). Successful applicants to the University of Houston Libraries ELLP participated in personality and emotional intelligence assessments; attended six interactive day-long sessions with content specifically tailored to leadership skills in the library setting; and formed a cohort that has been active in planning and advocating for continued leadership and emotional intelligence training within the organization. This paper discusses the content of the program, the lessons learned from two cohorts, information about how other libraries might pilot a similar program, and a description of how the ELLP is impacting UH Libraries' culture.
Formation of the gap junction intercellular channel requires a 30 degree rotation for interdigitating two apposing connexons.

Abstract Intercellular communication via gap junction membrane channels cannot occur until two apposing hemichannels (connexons) meet and dock to form a sealed cell-cell conduit. In particular, an important question is how does the structure at the extracellular surface influence the molecular recognition of the two connexons. In this study, cryoelectron microscopy and computer modeling provide evidence that the formation of the gap junction intercellular channel requires a 30° rotation between hemichannels for proper docking. With this amount of rotation, the peaks (protrusions) on one connexon fit into the valleys of the apposed connexon in the 3-D model, which would make for an ionically tight interface necessary for a functional cell-cell channel. Docking appears to be governed by a “lock and key” mechanism via a simple interdigitation of the six protrusions from each connexon. This interdigitation increases significantly the contact surface area and potential number of hydrogen bonds or hydrophobic interactions and/or other attractive interactions. Having a larger surface area than if the surfaces were flat would explain the biochemical requirements for conditions characterized previously for splitting of channels into hemichannels. The docked connexons were computationally fitted into two gap junction structures, which further confirmed the interdigitated manner of docking.
Assessment and improvement of the Plasmodium yoelii yoelii genome annotation through comparative analysis

Motivation: The sequencing of the Plasmodium yoelii genome, a model rodent malaria parasite, has greatly facilitated research for the development of new drug and vaccine candidates against malaria. Unfortunately, only preliminary gene models were annotated on the partially sequenced genome, mostly by in silico gene prediction, and there has been no major improvement of the annotation since 2002. Results: Here we report on a systematic assessment of the accuracy of the genome annotation based on a detailed analysis of a comprehensive set of cDNA sequences and proteomics data. We found that the coverage of the current annotation tends to be biased toward genes expressed in the blood stages of the parasite life cycle. Based on our proteomic analysis, we estimate that about 15% of the liver stage proteome data we have generated is absent from the current annotation. Through comparative analysis we identified and manually curated a further 510 P. yoelii genes which have clear orthologs in the P. falciparum genome, but were not present or incorrectly annotated in the current annotation. This study suggests that improvements of the current P. yoelii genome annotation should focus on genes expressed in stages other than blood stages. Comparative analysis will be critically helpful for this re-annotation. The addition of newly annotated genes will facilitate the use of P. yoelii as a model system for studying human malaria. Contact:xinxia.peng@sbri.org; stefan.kappe@sbri.org Supplementary information: Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Multicrack growth monitoring at riveted lap joints using piezoelectric patches

A built-in cost-effective diagnostic system is being developed to monitor fatigue crack growth in aircraft structures. The proposed system consists of a SMART Layer by Acellent Technologies with an embedded network of distributed piezoelectric sensors/actuators, a diagnostic unit, and software. Multi-riveted aluminum lap joints (936 x 462 mm) were tested for a constant amplitude fatigue test under tensile loading to monitor crack growth at rivet holes. A SMART Layer was designed as a strip and surface-mounted to the critical area of lap joints where crack initiation and growth were suspected. The SMART Layer installed between the two rivet rows was used as an actuator strip and the other layer located below the rivets was used as a sensor strip. Using the software, pre-selected diagnostic signals from a designated piezoelectric actuator to its neighboring sensors were generated by the diagnostic unit. A corresponding sensor signals were recorded and compared to a previously recorded baseline reference. The signal processing technique and interpretation algorithm were developed and implemented for extracting features related to crack growth condition at the time of measurement. The results of estimates were compared with non-destructive testing (NDT) data taken from the experiments, which were conducted during the course of the investigation. The probability of damage detection, compared to conventional NDT techniques, was evaluated.© (2002) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Squishy circuits: a tangible medium for electronics education

This paper reports on the design of a circuit building activity intended for children, which replaces wires with malleable conductive and non-conductive dough. By eliminating the need for soldering or breadboards, it becomes possible to very quickly incorporate movement and light into sculptures, and to introduce simple circuit concepts to children at a younger age. Future applications in both structured and unstructured learning environments, based on results from a preliminary pilot study, are presented.
Engineering the coefficient of thermal expansion and thermal conductivity of polymers filled with high aspect ratio silica nanofibers

Abstract The thermomechanical properties of epoxy filled with two different types of silica nanofillers: spherical nanoparticles and nanofibers were investigated as a function of silica nanofiller aspect ratio and concentration. Results indicated that at room temperature and at 8.74% silica nanofiber concentration (by volume) the thermal conductivity of epoxy increased twofold and coefficient of thermal expansion (CET) decreased by ∼40%. Silica nanofiber filled epoxy showed 1.4 times greater CET and 1.5 times greater thermal conductivity compared to spherical nanoparticle filled epoxy. The significant changes observed in thermomechanical properties of silica nanofiber filled epoxy were attributed to its high aspect ratio by constraining the polymer matrix as well as reducing the phonon scattering due to the formation of a continuous fiber network within the matrix. In addition to being electrically insulating, the improved properties of silica nanofiber filled epoxy make it an extremely attractive material as underfill and encapsulant in advanced electronic packaging industry.
FANCM and FAAP24 Maintain Genome Stability via Cooperative as Well as Unique Functions

The DNA remodeling enzyme FANCM and its DNA-binding partner, FAAP24, constitute a complex involved in the activation of Fanconi anemia (FA) DNA damage response mechanism, but neither gene has distinct patient mutants. In this study, we created isogenic models for both FANCM and FAAP24 and investigated their integrated functions in DNA damage response. We found that FANCM and FAAP24 coordinately facilitate FA pathway activation and suppress sister chromatid exchange. Importantly, we show that FANCM and FAAP24 possess nonoverlapping functions such that FAAP24 promotes ATR-mediated checkpoint activation particularly in response to DNA crosslinking agents, whereas FANCM participates in recombination-independent interstrand crosslink repair by facilitating recruitment of lesion incision activities, which requires its translocase activity. Our data suggest that FANCM and FAAP24 play multiple, while not fully epistatic, roles in maintaining genomic integrity.
Effects of non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug treatments on cognitive decline vary by phase of pre‐clinical Alzheimer disease: findings from the randomized controlled Alzheimer's Disease Anti‐inflammatory Prevention Trial

Objective: We examined the effects of non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs on cognitive decline as a function of phase of pre‐clinical Alzheimer disease. Methods: Given recent findings that cognitive decline accelerates as clinical diagnosis is approached, we used rate of decline as a proxy for phase of pre‐clinical Alzheimer disease. We fit growth mixture models of Modified Mini‐Mental State (3MS) Examination trajectories with data from 2388 participants in the Alzheimer’s Disease Anti‐inflammatory Prevention Trial and included class‐specific effects of naproxen and celecoxib. Results: We identified three classes: “no decline”, “slow decline”, and “fast decline”, and examined the effects of celecoxib and naproxen on linear slope and rate of change by class. Inclusion of quadratic terms improved fit of the model (�2 log likelihood difference: 369.23; p<0.001) but resulted in reversal of effects over time. Over 4years, participants in the slow‐decline class on placebo typically lost 6.6 3MS points, whereas those on naproxen lost 3.1 points (p‐value for difference: 0.19). Participants in the fast‐ decline class on placebo typically lost 11.2 points, but those on celecoxib first declined and then gained points (p‐value for difference from placebo: 0.04), whereas those on naproxen showed a typical decline of 24.9 points (p‐value for difference from placebo: <0.0001). Conclusions:Our results appeared statistically robust but provided some unexpected contrasts in effects of different treatments at different times. Naproxen may attenuate cognitive decline in slow decliners while accelerating decline in fast decliners. Celecoxib appeared to have similar effects at first but then attenuated change in fast decliners. Copyright # 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development of Antibodies and Immunological Methods for Terminal Transferase Assay

Antibody against homogeneous terminal transferase (1) has turned out to be an essential reagent for biological and biochemical investigations on the occurrence and structure of the enzyme. Carefully prepared antibody preparations have allowed characterization of the normal cells that contain TdT (2–4), analysis of leukemic cell populations (5), and, most recently, new insight into the conservation and structure of terminal transferase peptides (6). Although preparation, characterization and use of monospecific immune reagents is a fairly routine procedure, it is of value to record some of the experience we found to be worthwhile.
Evolution of microRNAs and their targets: Are all microRNAs biologically relevant?

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are defined by their precise processing from a longer stem-loop precursor and by their subsequent ability to direct the regulation of target RNAs distinct from the miRNA precursor. Several lines of evidence suggest that miRNAs arose at least twice during eukaryotic evolution from an ancestral, pan-eukaryotic small RNA producing molecular machinery, though alternative scenarios cannot be ruled out. A handful of plant miRNAs are strongly expressed, widely conserved among plants, and have identical targets in long-diverged species; most of these very well conserved miRNA-target relationships involve DNA-binding transcription factors with suspected roles in developmental control. In contrast, a much greater number of plant miRNAs are weakly expressed, poorly conserved, and have few if any readily identifiable targets. These miRNAs appear to be evolutionarily "transient", and many of them may be of little to no selective value. However, this ever-changing cast of transient miRNAs could provide a reservoir of potentially useful miRNAs from which new regulatory interactions sometimes are selected.
Antibiotics for Life-Threatening Illness

Infection is a common reason for seeking treatment in the emergency department. Appropriate and timely therapy for these patients is critical. The therapy of most infectious presentations in the emergency department is empiric, with little information published about the infectious etiology and/or pathogen(s). Optimal antibiotic therapy in these patients involves the selection of the appropriate agent(s), the proper dosing regimen, timely administration, and close therapeutic monitoring. To make these decisions, health care providers must be aware of the appropriate diagnostic criteria, likely pathogens for the suspected site of infection, the latest antimicrobial products, and current antimicrobial resistance patterns and trends. Health care providers are also charged with the task of avoiding unnecessary or inappropriate antimicrobial therapy to prevent or slow further bacterial pathogen resistance. Bacterial meningitis, urinary tract infection, and community-acquired pneumonia are the most commonly see...
Topological Symmetry Groups of Small Complete Graphs

Topological symmetry groups were originally introduced to study the symmetries of non-rigid molecules, but have since been used to study the symmetries of any graph embedded in R 3 . In this paper, we determine for each complete graph Kn with n ≤ 6, what groups can occur as topological symmetry groups or orientation preserving topological symmetry groups of some embedding of the graph in R 3 .
Stomatal responses to humidity in isolated epidermes

The ability of guard cells to hydrate and dehydrate from the surrounding air was investigated using isolated epidermes of Tradescantia pallida and Vicia faba. Stomata were found to respond to the water vapour pressure on the outside and inside of the epidermis, but the response was more sensitive to the inside vapour pressure, and occurred in the presence or absence of living, turgid epidermal cells. Experiments using helium-oxygen air showed that guard cells hydrated and dehydrated entirely from water vapour, suggesting that there was no significant transfer of water from the epidermal tissue to the guard cells. The stomatal aperture achieved at any given vapour pressure was shown to be consistent with water potential equilibrium between the guard cells and the air near the bottom of the stomatal pore, and water vapour exchange through the external cuticle appeared to be unimportant for the responses. Although stomatal responses to humidity in isolated epidermes are the result of water potential equilibrium between the guard cells and the air near the bottom of the stomatal pore, stomatal responses to humidity in leaves are unlikely to be the result of a similar equilibrium.
An integrated knowledge- and algorithm-based method for power converter design

A knowledge-based system (KBS) is developed as a computer-aided tool for power converter designers. The knowledge acquired from experienced designers is generalized and extended in the KBS. The algorithm-based methods are integrated with the KBS to overcome the difficulty of incomplete design knowledge. This integrated method is intended to reduce the design time and costs. Practical converter design examples are provided. >
Keeping It Short and Sweet: Brief, Ungraded Writing Assignments Facilitate Learning

Can short, ungraded, free-writing assignments promote learning of course material? We randomly assigned introductory psychology recitation sections (N = 978 students) to writing or thinking conditions. For all sections, teaching assistants presented students with a discussion topic based in current coursework. Students either wrote or thought about the topic for 5 min. All sections then discussed the topic for approximately 10 min. Exams included questions related to the discussion topics. Students in the writing condition attended class more often and performed better on factual and conceptual multiple-choice exam questions than students in the thinking condition, even after controlling for measures of student quality. The results suggested that brief free writing improved factual and conceptual learning.
Electric-Circuit Fault-Protective Principles as Applied to D-C Aircraft Systems

AIRCRAFT d-c electric systems are being extended constantly in responsibility and physical size. The assignment of more important tasks to the electric system emphasizes the need for the highest order of reliability of power supply, particularly in military craft exposed to unusual hazards. The increase in electric plant capacity increases the concentration of electric power which may be un-leashed with damaging effect in the event of electric-circuit fault.
5-Lipoxygenase–Deficient Mice Infected with Borrelia burgdorferi Develop Persistent Arthritis

The enzyme 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO) catalyzes the conversion of arachidonic acid into the leukotrienes, which are critical regulators of inflammation and inflammatory diseases, such as asthma and arthritis. Although leukotrienes are present in the synovial fluid of Lyme disease patients, their role in the development of Lyme arthritis has not been determined. In the current study, we used a murine model of Lyme arthritis to investigate the role 5-LO products might have in the development of this inflammatory disease. After infection of Lyme arthritis-susceptible C3H/HeJ mice with Borrelia burgdorferi, mRNA expression of 5-LO and 5-LO-activating protein was induced in the joints, and the 5-LO product leukotriene B(4) was produced. Using C3H 5-LO-deficient mice, we demonstrated that 5-LO activity was not necessary for the induction of Lyme arthritis, but that its deficiency resulted in earlier joint swelling and an inability to resolve arthritis as demonstrated by sustained arthritis pathology through day 60 postinfection. Although production of anti-Borrelia IgG was decreased in 5-LO-deficient mice, bacterial clearance from the joints was unaffected. Phagocytosis of B. burgdorferi and efferocytosis of apoptotic neutrophils was defective in macrophages from 5-LO-deficient mice, and uptake of opsonized spirochetes by neutrophils was reduced. These results demonstrate that products of the 5-LO metabolic pathway are not required for the development of disease in all models of arthritis and that caution should be used when targeting 5-LO as therapy for inflammatory diseases.
Toward Understanding the Recent Large Reductions in the Proportion of Young Persons With a Driver's License: A Response to Le Vine et al. (2013)

In 3 articles, we documented the recent large reductions in the licensure of teenagers and young adults in the United States and in 7 out of 14 other countries examined (Sivak and Schoettle 2011, 2...
Total and inorganic arsenic in Mid-Atlantic marine fish and shellfish and implications for fish advisories.

Abstract Sampling was conducted in 2002 to determine the total concentration and chemical speciation of arsenic in several marine fish and shellfish species collected from the Delaware Inland Bays and the Delaware Estuary, both of which are important estuarine waterbodies in the US Mid-Atlantic region that support recreational and commercial fishing. Edible meats from summer flounder (Paralicthys dentatus), striped bass (Marone saxatilis), Atlantic croaker (Micropogonias undulates), and hard clam (Mercenaria mercenaria) were tested. Total arsenic was highest in summer flounder, followed by hard clam, then striped bass, and finally, Atlantic croaker. Total arsenic was higher in summer flounder collected during the spring, as these fish migrated into the Inland Bays from the continental shelf, compared with levels in summer flounder collected during the fall, after these fish had spent the summer in the Inland Bays. Similarly, striped bass collected in the early spring close to the ocean had higher total ar...
Practical prescribing and long-term efficacy and safety of zonisamide.

Abstract Long-term efficacy, tolerability and safety of antiepileptic drug (AED) therapy is essential given the chronic nature of epilepsy. Zonisamide (Zonegran ® ), a novel AED with a broad range of mechanisms of action contributing to its antiseizure efficacy, has been evaluated extensively for the long-term management of epilepsy. Open-label extension studies in the United States and Europe suggest continued efficacy of zonisamide in long-term treatment without development of adverse events further to those seen in registration studies. Baseline seizure frequency is reduced by approximately 40–70% during long-term treatment for up to 2 years, and 30–50% of patients attain ≥50% reduction in seizure frequency across all categories of seizure and durations of treatment. Preliminary data indicate a progressive decline in seizure frequency with continued zonisamide treatment. Zonisamide is well tolerated in long-term use, with a trend towards decreasing incidence of generally mild adverse events over time and a low rate of withdrawal during chronic use. Nephrolithiasis and other serious adverse events are infrequent, and can be minimised by appropriate management and patient education. This profile of maintained efficacy, tolerability and safety during sustained administration in combination with other AEDs supports zonisamide as a valuable adjunctive agent in the long-term management of refractory partial epilepsy.
Causal Ambiguity, Barriers to Imitation, and Sustainable Competitive Advantage

This article addresses the issues of competitive advantage and competitor imitation. It is argued that tacitness, complexity, and specificity in a firm's skills and resources can generate causal ambiguity in competency-based advantage, and thus raise barriers to imitation. Reinvestment in causally ambiguous competencies is necessary to protect the advantage. Without reinvestment, attritional effects of continued competitive action will cause decay in the barriers to imitation. From this theorizing, research propositions are suggested, which, ultimately, will lead to an improved understanding of competitive advantage sustainability.
Assessment of Cognitive Components of Decision Making with Military Versions of the IGT and WCST

Abstract : The U.S. Army is focused on improving leader decision making, yet little is known as to how military officers develop optimal decision making. Two key components of optimal decision making are reinforcement learning and cognitive flexibility. Thirty-four military officers completed military versions of two standard cognitive assessments, the Iowa Gambling Test and the Wisconsin Card Sorting Task, while their eye movements were tracked. Results indicated that the military versions of these tasks successfully provided objective assessments of reinforcement learning and cognitive flexibility. Preliminary analyses of eye movements provide insights into the subjects decision strategies. Training implications of the results are discussed.
Comparison of outcomes in acute coronary syndrome in patients receiving statins within 24 hours of onset versus at later times

The clinical benefits of statins in acute coronary syndromes are well established, but the optimal time for administration in this setting has not been well studied. In this study, patients who had acute coronary syndrome and received statins <24 hours of presentation had lower incidences of death, stroke, reinfarction, heart failure, and pulmonary edema compared with delayed administration. Prompt administration of statins appears to be significantly beneficial in patients who present with an acute coronary syndrome.
Motion - patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis should undergo early liver transplantation: arguments for the motion.

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a condition of unknown etiology that causes progressive inflammation, fibrosis and obliteration of the intrahepatic and extrahepatic biliary tree. There is no medical cure, and ursodeoxycholic acid and other drugs have not been shown to affect the natural history of the disease. Endoscopic dilation is of value only in the relief of symptoms and complications related to dominant strictures. Cholangiocarcinoma occurs in a substantial minority of cases, especially those with ulcerative colitis and cirrhosis, and is often not clinically apparent before surgery. There are no good serologic tests for early cancers. Because this tumour has such a dismal prognosis, some authorities recommend that liver transplantation be undertaken before its development. This procedure is the only curative option for PSC, and excellent survival rates have been reported. There is evidence that early transplantation, before end stage liver disease or cholangiocarcinoma have developed, improves the survival and quality of life of patients with PSC. Because it is the only procedure of proven benefit, patients with PSC should be considered for liver transplantation early in the course of the disease.
Liquid Alternative Mutual Funds: An Asset Class that Expands Opportunities for Diversification

Contrary to the widely held misconception that alternative mutual funds use derivatives to take on significant risk in the search for outsized returns, the empirical evidence suggests that these funds do not subject investors to undue risk, and have important diversification benefits that can make them a highly beneficial tool for the average investor. These funds enable investors to construct diversified portfolios that either reduce the level of risk for a given level of return, or increase returns at the same level of risk, or both, and they have enabled ordinary investors to access an important, diversified asset class that had previously available only to high net worth individuals and institutional investors. To the extent that investors are heavily concentrated in equities, LAMFs can preserve expected returns at meaningfully lower risk levels.
A histamine-like component of commercial pitressin.

SummaryCommercial pitressin contains minute amounts of a histamine-like component apparently bound to the polypeptide but which can be concentrated and rendered capable of inducing physiological responses characteristic of histamine when pitressin is subjected to strong acid hydrolysis and the pressor activity destroyed. Extracts of commercial oxytocin contained but one-tenth the vasodepressor activity of pitressin extracts.
Detection of Tunnels in PCAP Data by Random Forests

This paper describes an approach for detecting the presence of domain name system (DNS) tunnels in network traffic. DNS tunneling is a common technique hackers use to establish command and control nodes and to exfiltrate data from networks. To generate the training data sufficient to build models to detect DNS tunneling activity, a penetration testing effort was employed. We extracted features from this data and trained random forest classifiers to distinguish normal DNS activity from tunneling activity. The classifiers successfully detected the presence of tunnels we trained on, and four other types of tunnels that were not a part of the training set.
Advance in the Effects of Heavy Metals on Bryophytes

Heavy metal stress harm is widespread in the natural environment,and heavy metal pollution must take some negative effect on the growth and development of plant.Bryophytes as a minimum higher plants,are very sensitive to the change of the external environment.Researches of heavy metals on the growth and development of bryophyte in domestic and overseas is not much,which is in the primary stage.In this paper,mang researches of Pb,Cd,Cu and other heavy metals on moss were summarized,and the emphasis of further research was illuminated.For learning bryophyte was how to adapt to the characteristics of the environment of heavy metals,and this paper would be the foundation of physiological changes of related research,sets and provides the reference for correlational research.
Sensemaking during unfolding events

Motivation - Organizations need to know how cognitive differences influence macrocognitive processes including information management and sensemaking. Research approach - To investigate the role of Analytic-Holistic thinking, 312 participants engaged in information management and sensemaking in the context of two unfolding scenarios. Findings/Design - Analytic-Holistic thinking directed initial sensemaking. Holistic thinkers were more influenced by information than were analytic thinkers and emphasized breadth over focus. People varied in their readiness to change their sense of a situation when faced with contradictory information. Limitations/Implications - While our scenarios were useful, more complex and possibly computer-based scenarios may better approximate naturalistic sensemaking and distributed teamwork. Originality/Value - We introduced a promising method for exploring sensemaking and information management and pioneered its use for investigating of analytic-holistic differences with implications for multinational collaborations. Take away message - In dynamic, complex domains, Analytic-Holistic thinking impacts sensemaking and information management and deserves continued attention.
Efficient protein transfection of cultured coronary venular endothelial cells

Although it is well recognized that microvascular endothelial cells play an important role in the local regulation of tissue perfusion and exchange processes, the precise effect of specific endothe...
A Comparison of Beam and Yttrium 90 Ibritumomab Tiuxetan (Zevalin®) in Addition to Beam (Z-BEAM) in Older Patients Undergoing Autologous Stem Cell Transplant (ASCT) for B-Cell Lymphomas: Impact of Radioimmunotherapy on Transplant Outcomes.

Background: ASCT is an effective treatment for patients with high risk NHL. However, relapse rates remain high. Attempts at further dose intensification are limited by regimen-related toxicity especially in older patients. Zevalin as a single agent has showed activity in aggressive Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL). We therefore, devised a novel conditioning regimen (Z-BEAM) combining standard dose Zevalin (0.4mci/kg) with high dose BEAM (BCNU 150mg/m 2 day-7,-6, cytarabine 800mg/m 2 and etoposide 800mg/m 2 day-5 to day-2, and melphalan 140mg/m 2 day-1). Herein, we provide an update on the study and also retrospectively compare this new conditioning regimen with conventional high dose BEAM in older patients (age >=50). Between 1995 and 2005, 65 patients (BEAM n=32, Z-BEAM n=33) underwent ASCT utilizing these regimens. Patient selection was similar for Z-BEAM and BEAM. Patients received BEAM prior to the opening of the Z-BEAM protocol and similiarly after the Z-BEAM protocol completed accrual. The groups were well matched for most demographics and disease status. Median age: Z-BEAM - 62 yrs (range 50–78), BEAM - 64 yrs (range 50–77); 1st CR/PR pts comprised 45% in the Z-BEAM arm and 34% in the BEAM, > =1st Relapse 42% vs 50% and induction failure 12% vs 15%. (p=0.7). Median number of prior regimens was 3 in the Z-BEAM group vs 2 in the BEAM arm.(p=0.08) 54 % had bulky disease at diagnosis in the Z-BEAM group vs 41% in the BEAM group (p=0.30). Results: Two-year OS was 78% for all pts (95%CI, 67–86). Two-year OS/PFS in the Z-BEAM group was 88%(95% CI, 70–95)/72 %(95% CI, 57–83) respectively vs 65% (95%CI, 48–77)/ 67%( 95CI, 50–79) in the BEAM group (Figure1). Analysis by histology showed that in patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), there was a significant difference in OS/PFS of Z-BEAM vs BEAM, 95% vs 48% at 2 yrs (p=.009)/ 88% vs 48% ( p=0.015). The OS/PFS difference of Z-BEAM vs BEAM in patients with mantle cell lymphoma did not reach significance. The toxicity profile and transplant related mortality was similar in both regimens. Conclusions: Our study suggests that the addition of Zevalin to the BEAM conditioning regimen is feasible and well tolerated in older patients. The favorable outcome of patients treated with Z-BEAM compared with BEAM alone, especially in patients with DLBCL, suggests that prospective study in a randomized trial is warranted.
Single-channel ground airborne radio system (SINCGARS) based remote control for the M1 Abrahms

Remote control of the Ml Abrahms Main Battle Tank through a minefield breach operation will remove the vehicle crew from the inherent hazard. A successful remote control system will provide automotive control yet not impair normal operation. This requires a minimum of physical parts, and an unobtrusive installation. Most importantly, a system failure must not impair the regular operation as a manned system. The system itself need not be complex. A minefield breach only requires simple control of automotive function and a mine plow interface. Control hardware for the Ml-Al can be reduced to two linear actuators, an electrical interface for the engine control unit, an interface for the mine plow, and the associated cables. Communication between vehicle control and operator control takes place over the vehicles organic radio (typically SINCGARS). This helps reduce the number of special purpose components for the remote control device. The device is currently awaiting an automotive safety test to prepare for its safety release. Because of the specific nature of the MDL-STD 1553-B data bus the device will not control an M1-A2 Main Battle Tank. The architecture will allow control of the M1-A2 through the 1553-B data bus however the physical hardware has not been constructed. The control scheme will not change. The communication interface will provide greater flexibility when interfacing to the vehicle tactical radio. Operational utility will be determined by U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command personnel. The obvious benefit is that if a remote tank is lost during a minefield breach the crew is saved.
Telemedicine in Pediatric Critical Care: At Home and Abroad

This review highlights current efforts to expand telemedicine in pediatric critical care in the United States (U.S.), including the evolution of the underlying technology, and evaluates studies supporting its use. The important and growing role of telemedicine in resource-limited settings (RLS) is further outlined. Pediatric telecritical care is a rapidly growing field, with data emerging to assess its feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and clinical utility. Telemedicine is increasingly applied in RLS for both clinical and educational purposes—embraced as a means of overcoming longstanding barriers of distance, training, and technology. The use of telemedicine is increasing in the U.S. and around the world, with a growing body of evidence to support its use. More research is needed on the clinical impact of such programs. However, given its potential to save lives, time, and money, we recommend continued development and implementation of pediatric telemedicine programs to provide clinical support and critical care education for remote and resource-limited settings.
Advances on the BRAF Front in Colorectal Cancer.

Colorectal cancer with BRAFV600E mutation can be effectively treated with combination approaches involving inhibition of BRAF, MEK, and EGFR proteins. However, activation of the MAPK pathway, often due to emergence of previously undetected molecular alterations, ultimately leads to adaptive therapeutic resistance. Novel combination strategies combining inhibition of BRAF, ERK, and EGFR can be used to prevent MAPK pathway-driven resistance and warrant further investigation. Cancer Discov; 8(4); 389-91. ©2018 AACRSee related article by Corcoran et al., p. 428See related article by Hazar-Rethinam et al., p. 417.
Reconfigurable Photovoltaic Systems for Electric Vehicles

This article discusses the insights for design and implementation of onboard PV systems for electrical vehicles. It proposes novel and efficient approaches to maximize the performance of onboard PV systems. The proposed method has been extensively validated for industrial applications. — Xin Li, Carnegie Mellon University
Cell Surface Glycoconjugates Associated with Malignancy/Metastasis of RAW117 Lymphoma Cells

Cell surface components are known to play an important role in cell-to-cell interactions such as recognition, communication and adhesion (Nicolson, 1984; Liotta, 1987; Gabius et al, 1987). Such interactions are important during tumorigenesis, tumor progression and metastasis. Cell surface glycoconjugates, particularly, are known to be involved in the complex process of metastasis. The precise biochemical nature of the molecules involved and their relation to tumor progression is not known.
Observations of Fe II in Active Galactic Nuclei

A forest of thousands of Fe II lines competes with Lα as the strongest contributor to the broad emission line spectrum of QSOs, the nuclei of broad line radio galaxies and Seyfert 1 galaxies. The most prominent feature, always present in broad line spectra, is between 2000 and 3500 A; the Fe II lines in the optical region, strongest near 4600 A, vary widely in strength from one object to another. I will review developments, from the discovery and identification of Fe II lines in the optical spectra of the quasar 3C 273 and a few bright Seyfert 1 galaxies, to systematic studies of the optical Fe II lines in many Seyfert and radio galaxy nuclei, the recognition of UV emission (mainly 2000 to 3500 A) in the resonance lines from about 5 eV, and finally to the identification of emission from high level transitions at 10 eV and above. I will discuss the use of recent model calculations in measuring the strength of the Fe II emission by matching synthetic and observed spectra, and present results on the strength of Fe II emission compared with other strong lines. Some statistical results are discussed, as well as some individual interesting objects whose spectra may elucidate or confuse our picture of Fe II production in the broad line region.
Robust object tracking with a case-base updating strategy

The paper describes a simple but effective framework for visual object tracking in video sequences. The main contribution of this work lies in the introduction of a case-based reasoning (CBR) method to maintain an accurate target model automatically and efficiently under significant appearance changes without drifting away. Specifically, an automatic case-base maintenance algorithm is proposed to dynamically update the case base, manage the case base to be competent and representative, and to maintain the case base in a reasonable size for real-time performance. Furthermore, the method can provide an accurate confidence measurement for each tracked object so that the tracking failures can be identified in time. Under the framework, a real-time face tracker is built to track human faces robustly under various face orientations, significant facial expressions, and illumination changes.
The Blunt End: Surgical Challenges of Gene Therapy for Inherited Retinal Diseases.

Purpose To review barriers to effective transduction of cells in the subretinal plane during gene therapy surgery for inherited retinal dystrophies (IRD). Design Perspective. Methods Case-based learning in clinical trials and commercial applications of gene therapy in a tertiary care, university-affiliated hospital. MEDLINE search for publications relevant to retinal surgical technique for gene therapy, clinical trials results for gene therapy of IRD, adenoviral-associated viral vector design, and immune response to viral vectors. Results The most important surgical issues are safe access to the subretinal space, intraoperative visualization with optical coherence tomography to protect the macula, and quantitation of viral dose. Other issues for retinal surgeons are patient selection, target zone planning, and control of inflammation. Vector-related issues that may affect the precision of treatment involve capsid interaction with the innate and adaptive immune systems and selective targeting of cell types. Conclusions Most current gene therapy vectors for monogenic IRD require physical proximity to target tissues under the retina in order to work. New surgical skills and new instrumentation are under development. So far, the host immune response does not seem to cause rejection of genes delivered by viral vectors but the efficiency of transduction can only be indirectly assessed by long-term visual outcomes.
Work Schedule and Work Schedule Control Fit: Work-Family Conflict, Work-Family Synergy, Gender, and Satisfaction

This paper examines the effects of actual work schedules (e.g., shift, rotating, flexible) and work schedule control fit on work-family conflict and synergy using data (N=2822) from the 2008 National Study of the Changing Workforce. Gender and work schedules interacted to predict work interfering with family (WIF) and work-family synergy but not family interfering with work (FIW). Employee work schedule control-fit was related to both types of work-family conflict (WIF and FIW) and work-family synergy (controlling for employee gender and presence of a child six years of age or younger). Supervisor support was related to employee of work schedule control-fit. Work schedules moderated the relationship between conflict (synergy) and satisfaction outcomes. Implications and directions for future research were discussed.
Personality traits moderate the association between conflict resolution and subsequent relationship satisfaction in dating couples

Abstract Communication is an important component of relationship satisfaction. Its longitudinal relationship may not be as robust as previously thought, leaving open the possibility that individual-level factors may influence this association. Personality traits have been associated with relationship satisfaction and communication, separately, but no study has simultaneously examined these interrelated components. We used stepwise structural equation modeling to examine the extent to which conflict resolution skills, personality traits, and their interactions predicted relationship satisfaction in heterosexual dating couples (N = 116 individuals) at four-month follow-up. Results showed that some personality traits moderated the association between conflict resolution and later relationship satisfaction. Specifically, for individuals with lower than average levels of conscientiousness and neuroticism, the link was positive; for individuals with higher than average levels of conscientiousness and neuroticism, the link was negative. Notably, conflict resolution skills, personality traits, and their interactions accounted for more than half of the variance in later relationship satisfaction. Results suggest that personality traits may differentially influence the communication-relationship satisfaction link in couples over time. Future studies investigating the communication-satisfaction link should examine these and other individual differences to better inform interventions for distressed couples.
Ribosomal DNA and the nucleolus in the context of genome organization

The nucleolus constitutes a prominent nuclear compartment, a membraneless organelle that was first documented in the 1830s. The fact that specific chromosomal regions were present in the nucleolus was recognized by Barbara McClintock in the 1930s, and these regions were termed nucleolar organizing regions, or NORs. The primary function of ribosomal DNA (rDNA) is to produce RNA components of ribosomes. Yet, ribosomal DNA also plays a pivotal role in nuclear organization by assembling the nucleolus. This review is focused on the rDNA and associated proteins in the context of genome organization. Recent advances in understanding chromatin organization suggest that chromosomes are organized into topological domains by a DNA loop extrusion process. We discuss the perspective that rDNA may also be organized in topological domains constrained by structural maintenance of chromosome protein complexes such as cohesin and condensin. Moreover, biophysical studies indicate that the nucleolar compartment may be formed by active processes as well as phase separation, a perspective that lends further insight into nucleolar organization. The application of the latest perspectives and technologies to this organelle help further elucidate its role in nuclear structure and function.
Mechanical thrombectomy in ischemic stroke: Trends and predictors of utilization of thrombectomy using a national database (P4.202)

Objective: To evaluate the trends and predictors of utilization of intra-arterial thrombectomy (IAT) over an 8 year period. Background: IAT has recently been approved for acute treatment of ischemic strokes (IS). With the advent of several new devices for IAT, this procedure has become more widely utilized with better outcomes. Design/Methods: Analysis of Nationwide Inpatient Sample data (2006–2013) showed a total of 850,997 patients discharged with primary diagnosis of IS, ICD-9 Code 433.xx and 434.xx. IAT was ascertained by ICD-9 procedure code 39.74. Independent predictors of IAT were studied using binary logistic regression. The predictors included in the model were age, sex, race, teaching status, and insurance type. Results: 4903 or 0.6% of IS patients received IAT. Mean age of patients receiving thrombolysis was 71.01 years. Percentage of IS patients receiving IAT has consistently increased from 0.037% in 2006 to 1% in 2013. We also observed significant year to year decrease in mortality among patients receiving IAT. In 2006, 26.2% of IAT patients died as compared to 15.8% in 2013. Using binary logistic regression, the statistically significant independent predictors of IAT utilization were Age (OR= 0.978, p=0.000), Female gender (OR=1.120, p=0.019), Insurance type as compared to Medicare (Private insurance OR=1.199 p=0.006, and self-pay OR=0.778 p=0.05). As compared to Caucasians, African Americans were less likely to receive treatment (OR=0.531 p=0.000). Also, a teaching hospital was found to be more likely to administer IAT as compared to a non-teaching hospital (OR = 5.941, p=0.000). Conclusions: IS patients with younger age, female gender, private insurance and patients admitted to teaching hospitals are more likely and African Americans are less likely to receive IAT. This study showed that IAT utilization has increased significantly since 2006 with a steep decline in the in-hospital mortality. This may point to improved IAT devices and better patients’ selection. Disclosure: Dr. Hamer has nothing to disclose. Dr. Gupta has nothing to disclose. Dr. Lobbous has nothing to disclose. Dr. Benesh has nothing to disclose. Dr. Hays Shapshak has nothing to disclose.