cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Retrospective evaluation of laboratory-based diagnostic tools for cervical necrotizing fasciitis.

Objectives/Hypothesis: Cervical necrotizing fasciitis (CNF) is challenging to diagnose and associated with high morbidity and mortality. The objective of this study is to evaluate the utility of two laboratory-based diagnostic tools for distinguishing necrotizing from non-necrotizing infection when specifically applied to neck infection. Study Design: Retrospective review. Methods: We reviewed 17 consecutive cases of CNF and 70 cases of non-necrotizing neck infection (cellulitis, phlegmon, abscess) occurring at our institution over a 10.75-year period. Cervical necrotizing fasciitis was confirmed by operative report documentation. Patient demographics, presenting characteristics, and outcomes were recorded. Results: Use of white blood cell count and serum sodium levels to predict cervical necrotizing fasciitis had a sensitivity of 24% (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.078-0.502), specificity of 81% (95% CI, 0.688-0.889), positive predictive value of 23% (95% CI, 0.054-0.401), and negative predictive value of 81% (95% CI, 0.769-0.857). A Laboratory Risk Indicator for Necrotizing Fasciitis (LRINEC) score of ≥ 6 had a sensitivity of 56% (95% CI, 0.227-0.847), specificity of 60% (95% CI, 0.274-0.863), positive predictive value of 25% (95% CI, 0.072-0.433), and negative predictive value of 85% (95% CI, 0.733-0.962). Conclusions: Neither the LRINEC score nor the use of admission white blood cell count and sodium level were useful for distinguishing cervical necrotizing fasciitis from non-necrotizing neck infection.
Endocytosis and Vesicle Recycling at a Ribbon Synapse

At ribbon synapses, where exocytosis is regulated by graded depolarization, vesicles can fuse very rapidly with the plasma membrane (complete discharge of the releasable pool in approximately 200 msec). Vesicles are also retrieved very rapidly (time constant of approximately 1 sec), leading us to wonder whether their retrieval uses an unusual mechanism. To study this, we exposed isolated bipolar neurons from goldfish retina to cationized ferritin. This electron-dense marker uniformly decorated the cell membrane and was carried into the cell during membrane retrieval. Endocytosis was activity-dependent and restricted to the synaptic terminal. The labeling pattern was consistent with direct retrieval from the plasma membrane of large, uncoated endosomes 60-200 nm in diameter. Even after extensive synaptic activity lasting several minutes, most of the ferritin remained in large endosomes and was present in only approximately 10% of the small vesicles that constitute the reserve pool. By contrast, after brief stimulation at a conventional terminal, ferritin did not reside in endosomes but was present in approximately 63% of the small vesicles. We suggest that the bipolar ribbon synapse sustains its rapid exocytosis by retrieving membrane in larger "bites" than the clathrin-dependent mechanism thought to dominate at conventional synapses. The resulting large endosomes bud off small vesicles, which reenter the reserve pool and finally the releasable pool.
Advanced Communication Techniques for Hostage Negotiators

ABSTRACT Hostage negotiators are in the communication business. In negotiating courses, negotiators are taught the basic principles of communicating. Very few negotiators are taught advanced communication techniques that are designed to influence others and increase compliance. The purpose of this paper is to present a model of negotiating developed by Ury (1991) and specific influence and compliance techniques discussed by Cialdini (1984). Ury's model presents a five stage program for getting agreement. The model was designed to deal with difficult negotiating situations, including hostage incidents. The techniques of influence and compliance are techniques which rely on automatic, unconscious behaviors and are powerful determinants in changing behavior and attitudes. The negotiator who knows and utilizes these techniques is at a tremendous advantage over the hostage taker and greatly increases the probability of being successful in negotiations.
Automated analysis of complex scenes of airborne fiberglass preparations for scanning electron microscopy imagery

Describes an automated approach for analyzing complex scenes obtained from digitized scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images of lung bio-dissolution preparations. Such images are used in the evaluation of airborne fiberglass distributions. They present varying densities of isolated, overlapping, and crossing fibers and other objects that should be individually identified and measured. A polygonal approximation model for each detected object in the scene is used to obtain a simplified description. After detecting complex objects, such as crossing fibers, an unsupervised neural network is used to resolve the ambiguities and separate the objects. The method performs satisfactorily under different conditions of fiber density and background clutter.
True costs of cheap labor are hard to measure: edge deletion and VCG payments in graphs

We address the problem of lowering the buyer's expected payments in shortest path auctions, where the buyer's goal is to purchase a path in a graph in which edges are owned by selfish agents. We show that by deleting some of the edges of the graph, one can reduce the total payment of the VCG mechanism by a factor of θ(n). However, we prove that it is NP-hard to find the best subset of edges to delete, even if the edge costs are small integers, or the graph has very simple structure; in the former case, this problem is hard to approximate, too. On the positive side, we describe a pseudopolynomial time algorithm for series-parallel graphs and fixed edge costs. Also, we discuss the applicability of this algorithm for the case of general (probabilistic) costs and derive a general lower bound on the performance of algorithms that are based on expected edge costs.
Contact allergic dermatitis to dicyclohexylcarbodiimide used in protein synthesis

Abstract Dicyclohexylcarbodiimide is a commonly used coupling agent found in protein synthesis. It is a potent allergic sensitizer found especially in the emerging industries involved in recombinant DNA synthesis. Chemists who work in research and development of this industry are especially at risk of development of contact dermatitis, unless they are careful and avoid skin contact. This report describes two chemists with allergic contact dermatitis from repeated contact with this compound in their work as research and development chemists. An appropriate concentration for patch testing is suggested.
More on noncommutative polynomial identity testing

We continue the study of noncommutative polynomial identity testing initiated by Raz and Shpilka and present efficient algorithms for the following problems in the noncommutative model: polynomial identity testing: The algorithm gets as an input an arithmetic circuit with the promise that the polynomial it computes has small degree (for instance, a circuit of logarithmic depth or an arithmetic formula) and determines whether or not the output of the circuit is identically zero (as a formal expression). Unlike the algorithm by Raz and Shpilka, our algorithm is black-box (but randomized with one-sided error) and evaluates the circuit over the ring of matrices. In addition, we present query complexity lower bounds for identity testing and explore the possibility of de-randomizing our algorithm. The analysis of our algorithm uses a noncommutative variant of the Schwartz-Zippel test. Minimizing algebraic branching programs: The algorithm gets as an input an algebraic branching program (ABP) and outputs a smallest equivalent ABP. The algorithm is based on Nisan's characterization of ABP complexity, and uses as a sub-routine an algorithm for computing linear dependencies amongst arithmetic formulas, a problem previously studied by the authors.
Progressive Network Coding for Message-Forwarding in Ad-Hoc Wireless Networks

We consider multi-hop transmission from the source to the destination in ad-hoc wireless networks. Cooperative forwarding approaches in the framework of progressive network coding are proposed which generalize coded cooperation in a multi-hop context. In this framework, the source node and each succeeding relay node progressively decode what they receive from the previous stages and re-encode the messages to different parts of the parity bits from a single (network) codeword hop by hop. The maximal achievable rates for the multi-hop wireless networks using traditional repetition-forward and progressive network coding are analyzed with respect to different transmit power constraint and packet length allocation. The optimal number of relays are derived in each scheme. It is found that progressive network coding with adaptive packet length significantly increases the system throughput and improves the energy efficiency
Brand or Variety Choices and Periodic Sales as Substitute Instruments for Monopoly Price Discrimination

We study the puzzle that sellers often employ diverse strategies in terms of carrying multiple brands and holding periodic sales. These two selling tools can be substitute instruments to induce consumer self selection and implement price discrimination. We analyze the factors that affect a seller’s choice between the two pricing instruments and show how different combinations of the two instruments can be optimal under alternative market conditions. A seller may, surprisingly, increase her total number of offers when it becomes more costly to carry brands or hold sales if there are decreasing marginal costs of the alternative selling tool.
Cross layer optimization of iterative OFDM reception with clipping

An optimized automatic repeat request (ARQ) iterative receiver for orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) transmission, suitable for application in double selective multipath channels in the presence of transmitter clipping is presented. The receiver is an optimized maximum aposteriori expectation maximization (MAP-EM) Turbo processor that exploits information from previous, failed transmissions of a packet. The system uses an imbedded pilot structure for initial channel estimation. We show that this configuration achieves performance very close to a system without clipping, even in hard clipping scenarios. Therefore, the proposed scheme represents a very efficient adaptive platform for OFDM ARQ when transmission non-linearities are present.
Hybrid predictive control of process systems

The operation of chemical processes often requires respecting constraints on manipulated inputs and process states. Input constraints typically reflect limits on the capacity of control actuators, such as valves or pumps, whereas state constraints represent desirable ranges of operation for process variables, such as temperatures or concentrations. Constraints, however, limit the set of initial conditions, starting from where a process can be stabilized at a possibly open-loop unstable steady state. Therefore, in control of constrained processes, it is important to obtain an explicit characterization of the region of closed-loop stability. Model predictive control (MPC) provides a suitable framework for implementing control that respects manipulated input and process variable constraints while meeting prescribed performance objectives. Unfortunately, the implicit nature of the feedback law in MPC (the control action is computed by solving on-line a constrained optimization problem at each sampling time) makes the a priori computation of the closed-loop stability region a very difficult task. Such a computation, however, is possible when Lyapunov-based bounded control techniques are used to design controllers for the stabilization of systems with manipulated input constraints. Motivated by this, the present work proposes a hybrid predictive control structure, which seamlessly unites MPC and bounded control, for output feedback stabilization of linear systems with input constraints. The design of the proposed structure is based on the idea of using a bounded controller, with its associated region of stability, as a “fallback” controller for the output feedback implementation of MPC. Switching laws are derived to orchestrate the transition between the two controllers in a way that reconciles their respective stability and optimality properties. The switched closed-loop system is shown to possess a region of guaranteed stability, achieved by appropriately switching between the two controllers. The proposed hybrid control structure is shown to provide a safety net for the practical implementation of MPC by providing a priori knowledge, through off-line computations, of a large set of initial conditions for which closed-loop stability is guaranteed. Finally, two simulation studies are presented to demonstrate the implementation and evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed hybrid predictive control scheme, as well as test its robustness with respect to modeling errors and measurement noise. © 2004 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 50: 1242–1259, 2004
Conventional Forms of Renal Neoplasia

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the third most common and deadliest urologic malignancy, accounting for 2 % of solid malignancies diagnosed in the United States (USA). Despite a robust downward stage migration due to increasing utilization of radiological imaging modalities and diagnoses in incidental settings, deaths from RCC continue to rise. Interplay between genetics, environmental and metabolic factors may give rise to RCC with increased incidence. This chapter will review the major histopathological categorization and subtypes of RCC and major benign cortical tumors, staging classifications, as well as therapeutic strategies and options for different stages and ongoing controversies regarding management.
"In Spanish": advancing public health.

The authors reflect on the need for improved scientific literacy using the Spanish language. It states that while adopting English as a single language to communicate advances in health sciences allows faster dissemination of information, it has adverse public health effects in countries where a significant percentage of people do not speak English. It mentions in the U.S. Spanish-speaking communities tend to be excluded from the discussion of public health issues.
Thymidylate Synthase and Fluorouracil

A knowledge of the catalytic mechanism of thymidylate synthase (TS), and its inhibition by 5-fluorodeoxyuridylate (FdUMP) was instrumental in developing the FUra-CF combination for cancer chemotherapy. The generation of the ideas which led to the current combination cleary demonstrates the importance of a fundamental knowledge of the interactions of inhibitors with their targets, and of how basic studies can be translated to clinical practice. The history of the development of the FUra-CF combination is a paradigm for the rational development of chemotherapeutic regimens. This report summarizes current knowledge of (a) the enzymology of the interaction of TS with FdUMP, (b) the 3-dimensional structure of TS, and (c) the effect of FUra on tRNA-uracil methyltranferase. Also, we suggest a possible molecular mechanism for the RNA effects of FUra.
Experience with continuous caudal analgesia in obstetrics at the University of Michigan Hospital

Abstract In summary, certain characteristics of continuous caudal analgesia in obstetrics reported by others are further supported by our experience with 250 consecutive cases: 1. Complete relief of pain during labor and delivery may be obtained, without impairment of consciousness or abolishment of voluntary motion, and without interference of uterine contractions. 2. The respiratory and other vital mechanisms of the child are not depressed. 3. Labor is shortened in most cases. 4. Blood loss during labor is decreased, and postpartum hemorrhage is minimized. 5. The incidence of operative delivery is definitely increased, but consists chiefly of outlet forceps. There was no increase in any of the major or more serious obstetric operative procedures in our series.
Nishida Kitarō on Social Contradiction: A Critical Lens for Analyzing Community-Supported Agriculture

The central concern of this paper is the linkages between contradiction and social change, as developed in the work of Nishida Kitarō, a critical social philosopher who explored the nature of socia...
Slowing Down Media Coverage on The US–Mexico Border

This article argues that though loosely configured and encapsulating a variety of approaches, the “slow journalism” movement offers a useful set of techniques and tools for critiquing the way print and television news currently represents the US–Mexico border. Working against the sensationalism and lack of introspection in contemporary news media, slow journalism advocates champion projects that focus on developing innovative techniques for providing deeper coverage of social issues. Drawing on Borderland: Dispatches from the US–Mexico Border, a multimedia collaboration launched by National Public Radio’s (NPR) Morning Edition staff and the Center for Investigative Reporting (CIR) in 2014, I will address the interaction between two complementary “slow” strategies: an ethnographic strategy that draws heavily on extensive interviews with individuals whose everyday lives are affected by border issues and an analytical strategy featuring visualizations created by processing large datasets related to annual se...
Evaluating the Potential Impact of Pharmacist Counseling on Medication Adherence Using a Simulation Activity

Objective. To evaluate the impact of counseling in a simulated medication adherence activity. Design. Students were randomized into 2 groups: patient medication monograph only (PMMO) and patient medication monograph with counseling (PMMC). Both groups received a fictitious medication and monograph. Additionally, the PMMC group received brief counseling. A multiple-choice, paper-based survey instrument was used to evaluate simulated food-drug interactions, adherence, and perceptions regarding the activity’s value and impact on understanding adherence challenges. Assessment. Ninety-two students participated (PMMC, n=45; and PMMO, n=47). Overall, a significantly higher incidence of simulated food-drug interactions occurred in the PMMO group (30%) vs the PMMC group (22%) (p=0.02). Doses taken without simulated food-drug interactions were comparable: 46.2% (PMCC) vs 41.9% (PMMO) (p=0.19). The average number of missed doses were 3.2 (PMMC) vs 2.8 (PMMO) (p=0.55). Approximately 70% of the students found the activity to be valuable and 89% believed it helped them better understand adherence challenges. Conclusion. This activity demonstrated the challenges and important role of counseling in medication adherence.
Testing of service-oriented software: a metamorphic testing approach

During the process of service-oriented software testing,Oracle problem that the program result is unpredictable comes into existence frequently because of issues like the unknown communication partners before the service discovery and the potential existence of non-identical implementations of the same service.In this paper,based on the benefits of the SOA environments,Metamorphic Testing(MT) approach was applied in the phase of unit testing and integration testing of service-oriented software.Metamorphic Relation(MR) can be built according to the service properties.A metamorphic testing class can invoke relevant services to execute test cases and use their metamorphic relations to detect failures.Any violation of any relevant metamorphic relation indicates a failure.
Contemporary Women's Writing in India, edited by Varun Gulati and Mythili Anoop

Varun Gulati and Mythili Anoop raise a provocative issue in their Introduction to this collection of essays. How does one delineate the Indian-ness of a woman writer in a world in which ‘many India...
Depression Management in the Medical Home

Depression is common and disabling. Worldwide, an estimated 350 million people are affected, and in the USA, an estimated 9 % of the population is experiencing a depressive disorder at any given time. Major depression is considerably disabling, second only to back and neck pain for having the greatest effect on disability days. Depression is also well understood to be a major risk factor for suicide.
The computer aided temperature monitor and control system for the hydraulic valve

This paper deals with the temperature control applied in hydraulic valve testing. The control system parameters can be identified online with the algorithm, and the parameters can also be optimized. For improving the control system performance, the penalty function is led into the process of identifying parameters. The distributing points of measuring temperature are considered. There are about five measuring temperature points and three controlling temperature points in the control system. Oil is used to test the hydraulic valve flows in the pipeline. The temperature control system consists of two levels of computer: the top level computer is the SUN 286, its tasks is to calculate the parameters and penalty function, optimize the parameters, draw the temperature curve, display data, and print data tables; and the front end computers are STO industry control computers whose task is to sample the temperature data and control temperature. There are four front end computers in the control system. One of them is used to control temperature, and the rests are used to control the oil pressure and flow. >
Nano-plasmonic phenomena in graphene

Graphene plasmons, which are collective oscillations of Dirac fermions in graphene, are of broad interests in both fundamental research and technological applications. In this talk, we present the first nano-infrared (IR) imaging studies of graphene plasmons using the scattering-type scanning near-field optical microscopy—a unique technique allowing efficient excitation and high-resolution imaging of graphene plasmons. With this technique, we were able to show that common graphene/SiO 2 /Si back-gated structures support propagating surface plasmons in the IR frequencies. The observed plasmons are highly confined surface modes with a wavelength around 200nm that are conveniently tunable by the back gate voltages [1]. In addition, we were able to map and characterize grain boundaries inside CVD graphene film by examining the distinct plasmonic interference patterns triggered by these line defects. Our modeling and analysis unveiled unique electronic properties associated with grain boundaries [2]. Furthermore, we investigate the plasmonic properties of Bernal-stacking bilayer graphene (BLG) and find that BLG supports gate-tunable IR plasmons with higher confinement compared to graphene and randomly stacked graphene layers. We also found that BLG plasmons can be turned off completely in a wide voltage range close to the charge neutrality point. Those unique plasmonic properties are attributed to both interlayer electron tunneling and bandgap opening in BLG [3]. Finally, we observed peculiar one-dimensional edge plasmons propagating strictly along the edges of patterned graphene nanostructures. Compared to commonly known two-dimensional surface plasmons, these one-dimensional edge modes have shown a slightly smaller plasmon wavelength [4].
Comparative Outcomes of Patients With Advanced Renal Dysfunction Undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement in the United States From 2011 to 2014.

Background— Renal dysfunction is intricately linked to aortic stenosis, with over 25% patients presenting for transcatheter aortic valve replacement having chronic kidney disease (CKD). Prevalence and outcomes of patients with CKD, especially those with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), are controversial. We aimed to compare in-hospital outcomes of patients with CKD or ESRD with those patients with no CKD/ESRD. Methods and Results— Data were obtained using the national inpatient sample between the years 2011 and 2014. We used the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Edition, Clinical Modification procedure codes 350.5 and 350.6 to identify patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement. Primary outcome of interest was in-hospital mortality. A 2-tailed P value P Conclusions— Patients with CKD and ESRD have increased in-hospital mortality and periprocedural adverse events with longer hospital length of stay, when compared with those without CKD
Waiver of Consent in Medical Procedure Research

Clinical trials for the blood substitute PolyHeme revealed the potential for the FDA's waiver of informed consent for emergency research to be misinterpreted. Virtual Mentor is a monthly bioethics journal published by the American Medical Association.
Adaptive Nonlinear Control in Active Suspensions

Abstract We study the sensitivity of a recently developed nonlinear control scheme with respect to variations in the parameters of the active suspension. Based on comparative simulation results, we conclude that the parameters of the hydraulic actuator dynamics are the ones to which closed-loop system performance is most sensitive. In fact, it is enough to estimate only one parameter in order to guarantee good performance, while variations in the remaining parameters can be dealt with through judicious choice of the controller parameters. We use tuning functions for our adaptive backstepping scheme, and provide guidelines for the choice of the fixed controller parameters.
Designing heterogeneous hierarchical material systems: a holistic approach to structural and materials design

Many materials systems comprise complex structures where multiple materials are integrated to achieve a desired performance. Often in these systems, it is a combination of both the materials and their structure that dictate performance. Here the authors layout an integrated computational–statistical–experimental methodology for hierarchical materials systems that takes a holistic design approach to both the material and structure. The authors used computational modeling of the physical system combined with statistical design of experiments to explore an activated carbon adsorption bed. The large parameter space makes experimental optimization impractical. Instead, a computational–statistical approach is coupled with physical experiments to validate the optimization results.
Micromechanical heterogeneity of the rat pia-arachnoid complex.

Abstract To better understand the onset of damage occurring in the brain upon traumatic events, it is essential to analyze how external mechanical loads propagate through the skull and meninges and down to the brain cortex. However, despite their crucial role as structural dampers protecting the brain, the mechanical properties and dynamic behavior of the meningeal layers are still poorly understood. Here, we characterized the local mechanical heterogeneity of rat pia-arachnoid complex (PAC) at the microscale via atomic force microscopy (AFM) indentation experiments to understand how microstructural variations at the tissue level can differentially affect load propagation. By coupling AFM mechanical testing with fresh tissue immunofluorescent staining, we could directly observe the effect of specific anatomical features on the local mechanical properties of tissue. We observed a two-fold stiffening of vascularized tissue when compared to non-vascularized PAC (with instantaneous Young’s modulus distribution means of 1.32 ± 0.03 kPa and 2.79 ± 0.08 kPa, respectively), and statistically significant differences between regions of low- and high-vimentin density, reflecting trabecular density (with means of 0.67 ± 0.05 kPa and 1.29 ± 0.06 kPa, respectively). No significant differences were observed between cortical and cerebellar PAC. Additionally, by performing force relaxation experiments at the AFM, we identified the characteristic time constant τ1 of PAC tissue to be in the range of 2.7 ± 1.2 s to 3.1 ± 0.9 s for the different PAC regions analyzed. Taken together, the results presented point at the complex biomechanical nature of the meningeal tissue, and underscore the need to account for its heterogeneity when modeling its behavior into finite element simulations or other computational methods enabling the prediction of load propagation during injury events. Statement of Significance The meningeal layers are pivotal in shielding the brain during injury events, yet the mechanical properties of this complex biological interface are still under investigation. Here, we present the first anatomically-informed micromechanical characterization of mammalian pia-arachnoid complex (PAC). We developed a protocol for the isolation and fresh immunostaining of rat PAC and subjected the tissue to AFM indentation and relaxation experiments, while visualizing the local anatomy via fluorescence microscopy. We found statistically significant variations in regional PAC stiffness according to the degree of vascularization and trabecular cell density, besides identifying the tissue’s characteristic relaxation constant. In essence, this study captures the relationship between anatomy and mechanical heterogeneity in a key component of the brain-skull interface for the first time.
Multiple Myeloma Cell Induction of GFI-1 in Stromal Cells Suppresses Osteoblast Differentiation in Patients with Myeloma.

Abstract 742 Multiple Myeloma (MM) is a plasma cell malignancy characterized by formation of lytic bone lesions in approximately 90% of the patients which do not heal even after prolonged complete remission. The basis for this selective and protracted suppression of osteoblast (OBL) differentiation from immature bone marrow stromal cells (MSC) is unknown. Although factors that inhibit OBL differentiation in MM have been identified, such as DKK-1, sFRP2, IL-3, IL-7, and TNF-a, none of these factors have been shown to be responsible for the protracted suppression of OBL differentiation in MM. Further, inhibition of Runx2 activity, a critical transcription factor required for OBL differentiation has been reported in MM, but the mechanisms responsible are still unclear. To address the basis for the protracted inhibition of OBL differentiation in MM, we have developed a murine model of MM-induced OBL suppression using a genetically modified murine myeloma cell line that expresses GFP and thymidine kinase (5TGM1-GFP-TK MM cells). Injection of these 5TGM1-GFP-TK MM cells into SCID mice resulted in persistent inhibition of OBL differentiation even when the MM cells were totally depleted by ganciclovir treatment. The MSC from these mice had selective inhibition of OBL differentiation, but not adipogenesis, and minimally differentiated to OBL even when treated with BMP2. These MSC expressed elevated levels of the SNAG family Zn-finger containing transcriptional repressor, Gfi-1, which we found can cause both acute and protracted suppression of RUNX2. In support of these results, decreased RUNX2 expression and elevated GFI-1 levels were also protracted in MSC from 7 MM patients with impaired OBL differentiation compared to normals. Further, 5TGM1 inhibition of OBL differentiation in vitro was dependent on TNF-a and IL-7, and neutralizing antibodies to TNF-a and IL-7 blocked MM-induced Runx2 suppression. In addition, TNF-a and IL-7 increased Gfi-1 in a murine OBL precursor cell line (MC4). Deletion analysis of the Runx2 P1 promoter revealed that a 943-bp region containing 27 putative Gfi-1 binding sites (AA(T/G)C core) was responsible for MM repression of Runx2 expression. Importantly, siRNA knockdown of GFI-1 expression restored RUNX2 , OCN , BSP and OSX expression in both MM exposed MC4 cells and in MSC from MM patients. These results support an important role for GFI-1 in repressing RUNX2 expression in MSC exposed to MM cells, thereby inhibiting osteoblastogenesis in MM. Disclosures: Roodman: Novartis: Consultancy, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Amgen: Consultancy; Celgene: Consultancy; Acceleron: Consultancy.
Whose interests are advanced by LGBT bioethics

Summary Before there is sexual orientation there is sex. And lesbians, as a class of women have been right to point out that men — gay and straight — still benefit from a patriarchal society. Lesbians remain more vulnerable to misogyny, underemployment, discrimination, sexism, and a lack of social representation. Sexual orientation cannot be separated from patriarchy, privilege, and dominance. It is precisely these differences which Doris Leibetseder has so incisively pointed out. These inequalities are compounded when speaking of medical reproduction. Theorists writing about the biological children of gay people — as a blanket term for both gay men and lesbian women — often gloss over biological facts. It is sloppy conceptual work to place gay men and gay women together when discussing LGBT bioethics , yet this is often done for expediency. This paper will explore medical reproduction as a case study in LGBT bioethics emphasizing that the homosexual experience — physically, socially, economically, emotionally, and politically — is not homogenous. Bioethicists must clearly define whose interests are at stake when advancing LGBT bioethics and ensure that lesbians, and other queer women, are not disadvantaged.
Characteristics and Impact of Post-Transplant Interdisciplinary Palliative Care Consultation in Older Allogeneic Hematopoietic Cell Transplant Recipients

Context and Objectives: The myriad of benefits of early palliative care (PC) integration in oncology are well established, and emerging evidence suggests that PC improves symptom burden, mood, and ...
Beyond Borders: Governmental Fragmentation and the Political Market for Growth in American Cities:

Political fragmentation has been conceptualized as a phenomenon which increases competition for mobile citizens and jobs between local governments within the same region. However, the empirical bas...
Factor structure, measurement invariance, and construct validity of MELQO measure of child development and early learning in Laos

Early learning interventions are widely implemented in developing countries yet instruments to reliably measure the effects of such programs on children’s development and learning in specific conte...
Implementation of adaptive transmit parameter adjustment in ultrasound imaging

The coherence of signals received by neighboring transducer array elements, the lag-one coherence (LOC), provides a local measure of clutter and temporally varying noise. Increasing transmit intensity decreases the impact of temporal noise on image quality, but does not eliminate stationary clutter. By assessing changes in LOC with acoustic intensity, acoustic exposure can be minimized without compromising image quality, achieving the ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principle. In this study, adaptive intensity adjustment based on LOC is integrated into B-mode imaging. Hepatic imaging tests in two volunteers provide preliminary support for the stability and specificity of intensity updates, potentially relieving the physical and workload demands placed on sonographers while ensuring both high-quality imaging and limited acoustic exposure.
Energy Availability with or without Eating Disorder Risk in Collegiate Female Athletes and Performing Artists.

CONTEXT Female athletes/performing artists can present with low energy availability (LEA) either through unintentional (e.g., inadvertent undereating) or intentional methods (e.g., eating disorder [ED]). While LEA and ED risk have been examined independently, little research has examined these simultaneously. Awareness of LEA with or without ED risk may provide clinicians with innovative prevention and intervention strategies. OBJECTIVE To examine LEA with or without ED risk (e.g., eating attitudes, pathogenic behaviors) in female collegiate athletes/performing artists. DESIGN Cross-sectional and descriptive. SETTING Free-living in sport-specific settings. PARTICIPANTS Collegiate female athletes/performing artist (n=121; age: 19.8±2.0 years; height: 168.9±7.7 cm; weight: 63.6±9.26 kg) in equestrian (n=28), volleyball (n=12), softball (n=17), beach volleyball (n=18), ballet (n=26) and soccer (n=20) participated in this study. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Anthropometric measurements (height, weight, body composition), resting metabolic rate, energy intake, total daily energy expenditure, exercise energy expenditure, Eating Disorder Inventory-3 (EDI-3), and EDI-3 Symptom Checklist were assessed. Chi-square analysis examined differences between LEA and sport type, LEA and ED risk, ED risk and sport type, and pathogenic behaviors and sport type. RESULTS Female athletes/performing artists (81%; n=98) displayed LEA and significant differences were found between LEA and sport type (χ25=43.8, P<.01). Female athletes/performing artists (76.0%; n=92) presented with ED risk with no significant difference between ED risk and sport. EDI-3 Symptom Checklist revealed 61.2% (n=74) engaged in pathogenic behaviors, with dieting the most common (51.2%; n=62). Athletes/performing artist displayed LEA with ED risk (76.0%; n=92). No significant differences were found between LEA with ED risk and sport. Softball was the highest with 82.4% (n=14) reporting LEA with ED risk followed by ballet (76%; n=19). CONCLUSION Our results suggest a large proportion of collegiate female athletes/performing artists are at risk for LEA with ED risk, thus warranting education, identification, prevention, and intervention strategies relative to fueling for performance.
Nutrition Literacy, Food Preference, and Food Choices within a School-Based Choice Food Pantry

This analysis investigated the users of a school-based, client-choice pantry, with attention toward significant differences in food selection based upon one’s level of nutrition literacy, food inse...
The development and convergence of co-pathologies in Alzheimer's disease.

Cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA), limbic-predominant age-related TDP-43 encephalopathy neuropathological change (LATE-NC) and Lewy bodies occur in the absence of clinical and neuropathological Alzheimer's disease, but their prevalence and severity dramatically increase in Alzheimer's disease. To investigate how plaques, tangles, age and apolipoprotein E e4 (APOE e4) interact with co-pathologies in Alzheimer's disease, we analysed 522 participants ≥50 years of age with and without dementia from the Center for Neurodegenerative Disease Research (CNDR) autopsy program and 1340 participants in the National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center (NACC) database. Consensus criteria were applied for Alzheimer's disease using amyloid phase and Braak stage. Co-pathology was staged for CAA (neocortical, allocortical, and subcortical), LATE-NC (amygdala, hippocampal, and cortical), and Lewy bodies (brainstem, limbic, neocortical, and amygdala predominant). APOE genotype was determined for all CNDR participants. Ordinal logistic regression was performed to quantify the effect of independent variables on the odds of having a higher stage after checking the proportional odds assumption. We found that without dementia, increasing age associated with all pathologies including CAA (odds ratio 1.63, 95% confidence interval 1.38-1.94, P < 0.01), LATE-NC (1.48, 1.16-1.88, P < 0.01), and Lewy bodies (1.45, 1.15-1.83, P < 0.01), but APOE e4 only associated with CAA (4.80, 2.16-10.68, P < 0.01). With dementia, increasing age associated with LATE-NC (1.30, 1.15-1.46, P < 0.01), while Lewy bodies associated with younger ages (0.90, 0.81-1.00, P = 0.04), and APOE e4 only associated with CAA (2.36, 1.52-3.65, P < 0.01). A longer disease course only associated with LATE-NC (1.06, 1.01-1.11, P = 0.01). Dementia in the NACC cohort associated with the second and third stages of CAA (2.23, 1.50-3.30, P < 0.01), LATE-NC (5.24, 3.11-8.83, P < 0.01), and Lewy bodies (2.41, 1.51-3.84, P < 0.01). Pathologically, increased Braak stage associated with CAA (5.07, 2.77-9.28, P < 0.01), LATE-NC (5.54, 2.33-13.15, P < 0.01), and Lewy bodies (4.76, 2.07-10.95, P < 0.01). Increased amyloid phase associated with CAA (2.27, 1.07-4.80, P = 0.03) and Lewy bodies (6.09, 1.66-22.33, P = 0.01). In summary, we describe widespread distributions of CAA, LATE-NC and Lewy bodies that progressively accumulate alongside plaques and tangles in Alzheimer's disease dementia. CAA interacted with plaques and tangles especially in APOE e4 positive individuals; LATE-NC associated with tangles later in the disease course; most Lewy bodies associated with moderate to severe plaques and tangles.
Robotic Radical Cystectomy, Pelvic Lymph Node Dissection, and Intracorporeal Ileal Conduit Urinary Diversion

The robotic approach to radical cystectomy is compelling because of its oncologic equivalence to open radical cystectomy (ORC), its association with lower surgical blood loss, its potential association with shorter hospital stay after surgery. These factors suggest that the robotic approach to radical cystectomy may be an important component of enhanced recovery programs aimed at reducing surgical morbidity. This paper describes the importance of the cranial placement of robotic trocars, the use of Cadiere forceps for atraumatic bowel grasping, pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND), and utero-enteric anastomoses. Also discussed are steps that are critical for the successful outcome of RARC. In spite of the increased operating times and associated costs and the costs of robotic surgical platforms and equipment, adoption of the robotic technique by bladder cancer surgeons has increased. This paper describes a systematic and reproducible method that details robotic extended pelvic lymph node dissection, cystectomy/cystoprostatectomy, and intracorporeal ileal conduit urinary diversion.
Treatment of cutaneous sarcoidosis with tofacitinib: A case report and review of evidence for Janus kinase inhibition in sarcoidosis.

Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disease characterized by the formation of noncaseating granulomas in one or multiple organ systems. Sarcoidosis most commonly affects the lungs and lymph nodes but can affect nearly any organ including the heart. There are no molecularly targeted therapies approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of sarcoidosis, and prednisone, which is approved for pulmonary sarcoidosis, remains a mainstay of therapy. Cutaneous lesions have been described in approximately 25% to 33% of patients with sarcoidosis, and treatment options are limited; there are no US Food and Drug Administration–approved treatments for cutaneous sarcoidosis.1 In light of the safety profile of steroids, they are used infrequently for treatment of cutaneous sarcoidosis. Although tetracycline antibiotics, antimalarial drugs, methotrexate, thalidomide, tumor necrosis factor-alpha blockers, and other immunomodulatory agents can be utilized in sarcoidosis, including cutaneous sarcoidosis, treatment responses are often suboptimal. Over the past few years, Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors have emerged as a promising new treatment approach for patients with both cutaneous and internal organ sarcoidosis. Here, we describe a patient with long-standing cutaneous sarcoidosis treated with tofacitinib resulting in clearance of her skin. We also summarize the literature describing the use of JAK inhibitors to treat sarcoidosis.
The Amicus Curiae in the Inter-American Court of Human Rights (1982-2013)

The Inter-American Court of Human Rights (IACtHR or Court) received approximately 500 amicus curiae briefs in its first 35 years. This number is particularly striking, taking into account that the IACtHR issued only about 275 judgments and decisions in that same time period, as well as twenty advisory opinions. This means that, in its contentious jurisdiction, the Court has received more briefs from non-parties than from parties actually litigating a case. Despite these numbers, statistical and analytical research on the participation of such "friends of the court" in written and oral proceedings before the IACtHR is relatively scarce in academic literature. This article aims to address this gap in the literature. Drawing upon all of the Court’s contentious jurisprudence -- from 1988 up to the end of 2013 -- this article provides a comprehensive analysis of more than 400 amici curiae briefs submitted in almost 100 contentious cases. It also relies on more than 100 amici briefs submitted in the Court’s advisory jurisdiction from 1982 through 2013.The purpose of this article is to contribute to the institutional historical memory of the IACtHR; highlight and provide a critique of the development of procedural norms and practices that regulate amici curiae submissions before the Court; provide suggestions and recommendations for greater clarity, consistency, and transparency concerning the participation of amicus curiae in the Court’s proceedings, and encourage a broader debate and discussion about the proper role of amicus curiae participation before the IACtHR.
Nitrogen saturation in forest ecosystems: progress and remaining mysteries.

More than a decade of intensive research has lead to a clearer understanding of the stages of nitrogen saturation in forest ecosystems, and of the role that land use history can play in preconditioning responses to chronic N deposition. The major unknowns surround processes by which nitrogen is retained in soils. Mycorrhizal assimilation and exudation and abiotic N immobilization are the two most likely candidates. Relatively little is known about the mechanisms or capacities of either process.
Notch Signaling: A New Potential Target in the Treatment of Uveal Melanoma

Uveal melanoma is the most common primary intra-ocular malignancy in adults, and causes significant mortality due to its propensity to metastasize. Our aim is to investigate the role of Notch signaling in promoting uveal melanoma proliferation and invasion. We examined five established uveal melanoma cell lines, and found using qPCR that the Notch 1-2-3 receptors, Jag1-2 ligands and the pathway target Hes1 were expressed to varying degrees in all lines. We then blocked Notch signaling using the gamma-secretase inhibitor (GSI) MRK003, and found that only three of the lines (OCM1, OCM3, OCM8) had their growth inhibited by the drug. Interestingly, these three lines had significantly higher levels of Hes1 mRNA as compared to the two lines resistant to GSI treatment (Mel 285, Mel 290). GSI treatment induced a dosedependent reduction of anchorage-independent clonogenic growth, with 50% inhibition in OCM1, 70% in OCM3, and 40% in OCM8, as well as a significant reduction in Hes1 mRNA and protein levels. Apoptosis, as measured by cleavage and activation of caspase-9, was also induced. Finally, we observed inhibition of cellular invasion in GSI treated cultures using transwell migration and scratch assays. Preliminary studies of snap-frozen primary tumors indicate that Notch pathway components are expressed in primary uveal melanoma in vivo at levels as high or higher than those in our cell line models. In addition, oligonucleotide microarray analysis showed a significant increase in Jag2 and Notch3 expression levels in primary uveal melanomas that metastasized as compared to those that did not. Our findings suggest that the Notch pathway plays an important role in inducing cellular proliferation and invasion in uveal melanoma, and that inhibiting this pathway using pharmacological agents may be effective in preventing tumor growth and metastasis.