cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Linking the Metabolism of Hydroquinone to Its Nephrotoxicity and Nephrocarcinogenicity

Hydroquinone (HQ) is nephrocarcinogenic in male Fischer-344 (F344) rats. Kari et al. (1992) described renal tubular cell degeneration in the renal cortex of male F344 rats receiving 1.8 mmol/kg HQ (13 week gavage study) and results from long-term studies demonstrated that HQ exhibited “evidence of carcinogenic activity” in male F344 rats as shown by marked increases in tubular cell adenomas of the kidneys. These findings were confirmed by Shibata et al. (1991), who reported the induction of renal cell tumors in rats following exposure to HQ in the diet (0.8%) for two years. Although the mechanism of HQ-mediated nephrocarcinogencity in male F344 rats is not known, GSH conjugates of HQ may play an important role. We have previously shown that multi-substituted glutathione (GSH) conjugates of HQ cause selective necrosis of renal proximal tubule cells in Sprague-Dawley rats when administered by intravenous injection, with 2,3,5-(triGSyl)HQ being the most potent nephrotoxicant (Lau et al., 1988). Furthermore, HQ-GSH conjugates have been identified as both in vitro and in vivo metabolites of HQ in the Sprague-Dawley rat, in quantities sufficient to propose a role for GSH conjugation in the nephrotoxicity of HQ (Hill et al., 1993). In the present study we investigated the metabolism of [14C]-HQ to HQ thioethers in the F344 rat, the rat strain used in the carcinogenicity studies, and also examined the effect of subchronic administration on the elimination and metabolic profile of [14C]-HQ. We propose that the formation of nephrotoxic metabolites may play a role in HQ-induced nephrocarcinogenicity by a mechanism that involves the generation of reactive oxygen species, oxidative DNA damage, and cytotoxicity followed by sustained hyperplasia.
Using Windows NT in a student computer lab

Student computer labs are constantly balancing the need to run the most current hardware and software configurations with the added time and expense of setup and maintenance. The Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (D/EECS) administrators chose Windows NT Workstation v3.51 as a means to optimize the trade offs between the desire to use cutting edge technology and over obligated personnel resources. This paper describes the perceptions the Department had before installing NT Workstation the method we used to convert the labs from Windows for Workgroups to NT, and the benefits we have seen and expect to see from the new lab configuration.
CHEETAH: circuit-switched high-speed end-to-end transport architecture testbed

We propose a circuit-switched high-speed end-to-end transport architecture (CHEETAH) as a networking solution to provide high-speed end-to-end circuit connectivity to end hosts on a dynamic call-by-call basis. Not only is it envisioned as a complementary service to the basic connectionless service provided by today's Internet; it also relies on and leverages the presence of this service. Noting the dominance of Ethernet in LANs and SONET/SDH in WANs, CHEETAH circuits consists of Ethernet segments at the ends and Ethernet-over-SONET segments in the wide area. In this article we explain the CHEETAH concept and describe a wide-area experimental network testbed we have deployed based on this concept. The network testbed currently extends between Raleigh, North Carolina, Atlanta, Georgia, and Oak Ridge, Tennessee, and uses off-the-shelf switches. We have created CHEETAH software to run on end hosts to enable automated use of this network by applications. Our first users of this network testbed and software is the terascale supernova initiative (TSI) project researchers, who plan to use this network for large file transfers and remote visualizations.
Using a case study to teach students about finding and fixing logic flaws in software

An application logic flaw is a type of software vulnerability related to privilege manipulation or transaction control manipulation. They are often difficult to identify using automated scanners. A case study on the eCommerce merchant software Bigcommerce, integrated with PayPal Express as a third party payment collector, was created to teach students about this topic. Case studies provide students with a real-world context, and help them understand complex topics better than traditional teaching methods. However, the computer science field, especially computer security, does not have many case studies available. The case study on logic flaws in software was taught in Spring 2015, and the teaching experience is discussed.
Additional Records of the Ohio Shrew

The Ohio shrew, Sorex cinereus ohioensis , was described by Bole and Moulthrop ( Sci. Publ. Cleveland Mus. Nat. Hist . 5(6): 89–95, 1942). They listed 181 records from eight counties of northeastern Ohio. The only records from Summit County, however, were from two owl pellets. Subsequently, Dexter ( Jour. Mamm. , 27: 177, 1946) published the first complete specimen record from that county. Since then two other specimens …
GEOTHERMAL INVESTIGATION OF WAUNITA HOT SPRINGS UTILIZING A VARIETY OF GEOPHYSICAL SURVEY METHODS AND TECHNIQUES

The results of a geothermal investigation will be presented. The project, part of the Colorado School of Mines Undergraduate Geophysics curriculum, is conducted throughout a student’s senior year. The geothermal reservoir studied has surficial manifestations at Waunita Hot Springs, located in the southeastern corner of Gunnison County. The springs have been identified by the Colorado Geological Survey as a resource with potential for geothermal power generation, (Barrett and Pearl, 1978). The project goals are to better understand the geothermal reservoir and its geologic structure. To understand the fracturing system that defines and controls the reservoir, geophysical mapping of the subsurface conductivity will be presented. An image of the deeper conductivity distribution will be displayed as a result of a time domain electromagnetic survey. For imaging at shallower depths, with greater detail, the electrical methods, specifically SP and DC resistivity, were utilized. Detailed geologic maps of the area are limited; therefore, a geologic survey will be conducted along with the collection of hydrological data. A geochemical analysis of the water from the springs and temperature gradients calculated from borehole measurements will also be presented. The observations and data will be useful in assessing the geothermal potential of Waunita Hot Springs.
Stickleback embryos use ATP-binding cassette transporters as a buffer against exposure to maternally derived cortisol

Offspring from females that experience stressful conditions during reproduction often exhibit altered phenotypes and many of these effects are thought to arise owing to increased exposure to maternal glucocorticoids. While embryos of placental vertebrates are known to regulate exposure to maternal glucocorticoids via placental steroid metabolism, much less is known about how and whether egg-laying vertebrates can control their steroid environment during embryonic development. We tested the hypothesis that threespine stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus) embryos can regulate exposure to maternal steroids via active efflux of maternal steroids from the egg. Embryos rapidly (within 72 h) cleared intact steroids, but blocking ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters inhibited cortisol clearance. Remarkably, this efflux of cortisol was sufficient to prevent a transcriptional response of embryos to exogenous cortisol. Taken together, these findings suggest that, much like their placental counterparts, developing fish embryos can actively regulate their exposure to maternal cortisol. These findings highlight the fact that even in egg-laying vertebrates, the realized exposure to maternal steroids is mediated by both maternal and embryonic processes and this has important implications for understanding how maternal stress influences offspring development.
Serial ferritin concentrations in hemodialysis patients receiving intravenous iron.

BACKGROUND Treatment of the anemia of chronic renal failure with intravenous iron and erythropoietin is highly effective, but frequently leads to ferritin levels which are much higher than those seen in the general population. High ferritin concentrations raise concern about the potential toxicity of increased body iron stores. PATIENTS AND METHODS We retrospectively evaluated parameters of iron metabolism over a 4-year period among all our chronic hemodialysis patients who had been receiving intravenous iron and erythropoietin. Initially, patients received intermittent infusions of 300 mg intravenous iron x 3 doses for a low ferritin or low percent saturation of total iron binding capacity (TIBC), but this protocol was subsequently changed to weekly or biweekly infusions of 50-100 mg. RESULTS We observed an improvement in average hemoglobin values, modest increases in serum iron and saturation of iron binding capacity, and a 125% increase in ferritin levels over 4 years. TIBC decreased. Overall, ferritin values increased 79 microg/l for each 1% increase in TIBC saturation. Ten patients with ferritin concentration greater than 1,000 pg/l received a three month course of vitamin C with no decline in the ferritin concentration. CONCLUSION Current protocols for iron delivery may result in progressive increases in ferritin levels. Concern about the risks of iron overload should temper the quantity of iron used in dialysis programs.
Gender and ideological rivalry in Ninotchka and Circus: the capitalist and communist make-over

This article compares the cinematic representation of the ideological rivalry between capitalism and communism in two films with mirror narratives: the Soviet film Circus (Tsirk, 1936) and the US film Ninotchka (1939). Despite the different ideological and political contexts in which the two films were produced, directors Grigorii Aleksandrov and Ernst Lubitsch both presented a critique of the rival ideology through a critique of rival models of womanhood. In these two films, a woman out of place, literally and figuratively, undergoes a visual transformation, changes her attitudes about fashion, laughter, love and sexuality, and then defects and adopts a new ideological homeland. Such a narrative reflected the socio-cultural context in which the iconic ‘new woman’ made her debut, even as traditional gender norms continued to hold sway, and revolutions and reform movements urged women and men to adopt new styles of clothing to match the ‘modern’ attitudes, beliefs and political systems they proffered.
Regulation of mesangial cell hexokinase activity by PKC and the classic MAPK pathway.

Phorbol esters increase glucose (Glc) uptake and utilization in a variety of cell types, and, in some cells, these changes have been attributed to increased Glc phosphorylation and better functiona...
Coronary revascularization in septuagenarians.

Despite a 15 year experience with the aorta-coronary bypass operation, indications for its use remain unsettled, especially in the elderly. Between January, 1974, and June, 1980, 2,667 patients underwent coronary artery revascularization with an overall mortality of 3.8% (101/2,667). During the last 12 months the mortality has decreased to 1%. There were 2,562 patients below the age of 70, with a mortality of 3.5% (90/2,562), in contrast to 105 patients over the age of 70, with a mortality of 10.5% (11/105) (p = 0.002). In patients less than 70 years of age there was a significant difference between the mortality of men, 3.12% (67/2,146). and that of women, 5.53% (23/416) (p = 0.015). This disparity of operative risk was far more pronounced in patients over 70 years of age: men 6 % (5/84) and women 28.6% (6/21) (p = 0.002). The overall operative mortality of women, 6.6% (29/437), was significantly different from the overall mortality of men, 3.2% (72/2,230) (p = 0.001). An in depth analysis of past medical history, risk factors, and catheterization data is presented in those patients over the age of 70. The average number of vessels bypassed was 2.40: men 2.47 and women 2.09 (p = NS). The ages varied from 70 to 81 years with a mean of 72.5. Smoking (p = 0.012) and diabetes (p = 0.0078) were significant risk factors for coronary disease. Smoking (p = 0.032) and abnormal pulmonary artery pressures (p = 0.0429) were significant variables affecting mortality. A 97.1% follow-up was obtained up to 78 months. Coronary artery revascularization can be performed in men below the age of 70 with acceptable mortality, but there is a twofold increase above the age of 70. Women can undergo revascularization below the age of 70 with a significantly higher risk than males. Those above the age of 70 are at severe risk and should undergo revascularization only after careful selection.
Thrombolytic therapy with tissue plasminogen activator or streptokinase induces transient thrombin activity

We have determined the plasma level of fibrinopeptide A as a specific index of thrombin activity during the infusion of a thrombolytic agent in patients with acute myocardial infarction. Peripheral venous plasma levels of fibrinopeptide A increased following the initiation of thrombolytic therapy from 2.7 nmol/L to a peak of 13.0 nmol/L at 30 minutes with streptokinase and from 1.1 nmol/L to a peak of 10.7 nmol/L at 90 minutes with tissue plasminogen activator. The amount of fibrinogen converted to fibrin I was determined by integration of the plasma level of fibrinopeptide A over time. The amount of fibrin I formed over the five-hour period from the start of drug infusion was approximately 10 mg/dL in response to either streptokinase or recombinant tissue plasminogen activator. We conclude that activation of coagulation occurs in response to thrombolytic therapy despite heparin administration. This thrombin action, though transient, would be sufficient to cause rethrombosis if localized and incompletely opposed by fibrinolytic activity.
Peripheral Leukocyte Migration in Ferrets in Response to Infection with Seasonal Influenza Virus

In order to better understand inflammation associated with influenza virus infection, we measured cell trafficking, via flow cytometry, to various tissues in the ferret model following infection with an A(H3N2) human seasonal influenza virus (A/Perth/16/2009). Changes in immune cells were observed in the blood, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, and spleen, as well as lymph nodes associated with the site of infection or distant from the respiratory system. Nevertheless clinical symptoms were mild, with circulating leukocytes exhibiting rapid, dynamic, and profound changes in response to infection. Each of the biological compartments examined responded differently to influenza infection. Two days after infection, when infected ferrets showed peak fever, a marked, transient lymphopenia and granulocytosis were apparent in all infected animals. Both draining and distal lymph nodes demonstrated significant accumulation of T cells, B cells, and granulocytes at days 2 and 5 post-infection. CD8+ T cells significantly increased in spleen at days 2 and 5 post-infection; CD4+ T cells, B cells and granulocytes significantly increased at day 5. We interpret our findings as showing that lymphocytes exit the peripheral blood and differentially home to lymph nodes and tissues based on cell type and proximity to the site of infection. Monitoring leukocyte homing and trafficking will aid in providing a more detailed view of the inflammatory impact of influenza virus infection.
Probing Metabolism in the Intact Retina Using Stable Isotope Tracers

Vertebrate retinas have several characteristics that make them particularly interesting from a metabolic perspective. The retinas have a highly laminated structure, high energy demands, and they share several metabolic features with tumors, such as a strong Warburg effect and abundant pyruvate kinase M2 isoform expression. The energy demands of retinas are both qualitatively and quantitatively different in light and darkness and metabolic dysfunction could cause retinal degeneration. Stable isotope-based metabolic analysis with mass spectrometry is a powerful tool to trace the dynamic metabolic reactions and reveal novel metabolic pathways within cells and between cells in retina. Here, we describe methods to quantify retinal metabolism in intact retinas and discuss applications of these methods to the understanding of neuron-glia interaction, light and dark adaptation, and retinal degenerative diseases.
Individualist and collectivist consumer motivations in local organic food markets

Community-Supported Agriculture programs have become a popular model for providing consumers with direct economic engagement with independent local organic farms. The degree to which Community-Supp...
Interactions of Nitrosomonas europaea and Nitrobacter winogradskyi grown in co-culture.

Nitrosomonas europaea and Nitrobacter winogradskyi were grown singly and in co-culture in chemostats to probe for physiological differences between the two growth conditions. Co-culture growth medium containing 60 mM NH4 (+) resulted in a cell density (0.20-0.29 OD600) greater than the sum of the densities in single chemostat cultures, i.e., 0.09-0.14 OD600 for N. europaea with 60 mM NH4 (+)and 0.04-0.06 OD600 for N. winogradskyi with 60 mM NO2 (-). The NO2 (-)- and NH4 (+)-dependent O2 uptake rates, qRT-PCR, and microscopic observations indicated that in co-culture, N. europaea contributed ~0.20 OD600 (~80 %) and N. winogradskyi ~0.05 OD600 (~20 %). In co-culture, the transcriptomes showed that the mRNA levels of 773 genes in N. europaea (30.2 % of the genes) and of 372 genes in N. winogradskyi (11.8 % of the genes) changed significantly. Total cell growth and the analysis of the transcriptome revealed that in co-culture, N. europaea benefits more than N. winogradskyi.
Association of somatic ERCC2 mutations with cisplatin sensitivity in muscle-invasive urothelial carcinoma.

4510 Background: Cisplatin-based combination chemotherapy is the standard of care for patients with muscle invasive urothelial carcinoma. Pathologic downstaging to pT0/pTis after neoadjuvant cispla...
HbF-Associated Genetic Variation Marks an Erythroid Regulatory Element Essential for BCL11A Transcription and Subsequent Stage-Specific Globin Expression

Abstract 828 Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified common genetic variation within a 14-kb segment of intron-2 of the BCL11A gene that is associated with the level of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) and the clinical severity of the β-globin disorders sickle cell disease and β-thalassemia. Functional studies have validated BCL11A as a major repressor of HbF. Here, we explore the consequences of genetic variation on BCL11A expression. The HbF-associated variants overlap BCL11A sequences that possess an evolutionarily conserved enhancer chromatin signature, including the presence of H3K4me1 and H3K27ac and the absence of H3K4me3 histone modifications. Moreover, these sequences show a unique pattern of DNase I hypersensitivity in erythroid precursors compared to other BCL11A-expressing lineages including fetal brain and B-lymphocytes. Occupancy of the major erythroid transcription factors GATA1 and TAL1 is observed at these DNase I hypersensitive sites (DHS). Chromosome conformation capture studies demonstrate that these DHSs form a long-range interaction with the BCL11A promoter. To address the function of the putative regulatory element, we generated transgenic mice with the 12-kb intronic region attached to a minimal promoter and reporter gene. The element enhanced reporter gene expression in an erythroid-lineage restricted, definitive erythroid stage-specific manner. The minimal enhancer activity was mapped to the +58-kb DHS. Similar enhancer activity was observed in primary human erythroid precursors. To address the possible requirement of this element for BCL11A expression, we deleted the corresponding region in adult-stage murine erythroleukemia cells with TALEN-mediated gene targeting. Expression of BCL11A was dramatically reduced and embryonic globins Hbby and Hbb-bh1 were markedly derepressed with concomitant reduction of adult globin Hbb-b1. Analysis of heterozygous primary human erythroid precursors revealed that low-HbF haplotype alleles are preferentially occupied by GATA1 and TAL1 at sequences surrounding rs1427407. A composite half-E-box–GATA motif is disrupted at this SNP in the high-HbF allele. Furthermore, the low-HbF haplotype allele of BCL11A is expressed at a 1.7-fold higher level relative to the high-HbF allele. These data demonstrate that HbF-associated genetic variation in BCL11A modulates the function of a critical erythroid enhancer of BCL11A, and consequently expression of BCL11A itself. The quantitative level of BCL11A in turn regulates the relative expression of the stage-specific globin genes. The essential erythroid enhancer of the BCL11A gene might itself serve as a target for genetic manipulation as a novel approach to the human β-globin disorders. Disclosures: Porteus: Alex9s Lemonade Stand Foundation: Research Funding.
Reversing the Native Aerobic Oxidation Reactivity of Graphitic Carbon: Heterogeneous Metal-Free Alkene Hydrogenation

Commercially available carbon blacks serve as effective metal-free catalysts for the selective hydrogenation of carbon–carbon multiple bonds under aerobic conditions using hydrazine as the terminal reductant. The reaction, which proceeds through a putative diimide intermediate, displays high tolerance to a variety of functional groups, including those sensitive to nucleophilic displacement by hydrazine, aerobic oxidation, or hydrazine-mediated reduction. Hydrazine chemisorbs strongly to the carbon surface, attenuating its native oxidative reactivity and allowing for selective hydrogenation. The catalytic sequence established here effectively umpolungs the reactivity of carbon, thereby enabling the use of this low-cost material in selective reduction catalysis.
Embodied moments: revisiting the field and writing vulnerably

ABSTRACTIn this essay, I revisit past dissertation fieldwork to interrogate the presence and absence of my pregnancy in performances and textual accounts. I return to time spent in the former Yugoslavia working with the Swedish organization Kvinna till Kvinna (Woman to Woman) and their local partner organizations. Through a series of brief flashbacks, I work through ongoing moments of tension surrounding reflexive research, emerging subjectivities, and vulnerable writing. This essay contributes to conversations on how feminist ethnographers locate themselves within the field in relation to participants and on reflexivity as an evolving practice that expands across temporal and spatial boundaries.
An Artificial Diet for Larvae of Calosoma sycophanta (Coleoptera: Carabidae), a Gypsy Moth (Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae) Predator

A newly-developed larval diet for Calosoma sycophanta L. consists of beef liver and chicken meat. Larvae reared individually on this diet develop at about the same rate and have the same survival a...
IFN-Gamma-Dependent and Independent Mechanisms of CD4+ Memory T Cell-Mediated Protection from Listeria Infection

While CD8⁺ memory T cells can promote long-lived protection from secondary exposure to intracellular pathogens, less is known regarding the direct protective mechanisms of CD4⁺ T cells. We utilized a prime/boost model in which mice are initially exposed to an acutely infecting strain of lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV), followed by a heterologous rechallenge with Listeria monocytogenes recombinantly expressing the MHC Class II-restricted LCMV epitope, GP61-80 (Lm-gp61). We found that heterologous Lm-gp61 rechallenge resulted in robust activation of CD4⁺ memory T cells and that they were required for rapid bacterial clearance. We further assessed the relative roles of TNF and IFNγ in the direct anti-bacterial function of CD4⁺ memory T cells. We found that disruption of TNF resulted in a complete loss of protection mediated by CD4⁺ memory T cells, whereas disruption of IFNγ signaling to macrophages results in only a partial loss of protection. The protective effect mediated by CD4⁺ T cells corresponded to the rapid accumulation of pro-inflammatory macrophages in the spleen and an altered inflammatory environment in vivo. Overall, we conclude that protection mediated by CD4⁺ memory T cells from heterologous Listeria challenge is most directly dependent on TNF, whereas IFNγ only plays a minor role.
A Bio-inspired Model for Executive Control

Prefrontal cortex (PFC) is implicated in executive control, herein defined as the ability to map external inputs and internal goals toward actions that solve problems or elicit rewards. In this work, we present a computational model of PFC and accompanying brain systems (e.g. limbic, motor control, and sensory areas) based on a review of structure and function. The current design leverages previous models, but organizes them in novel ways to provide transparent and efficient computation. We propose this model provides a biologically plausible architecture that learns from and uses multimodal spatio-temporal working memories to develop and refine reward-eliciting behaviors. It addresses several anatomical and physiological constraints consistent with neurophysiology. The functional competence of the model is illustrated using the “Egg Hunt” scenario.
The Factor of Listening in Karl Jaspers’ Philosophy of Communication

Jaspers’ views on communication and his approach to the question of listening, both underwent an evolution in which World War II and the first years thereafter played a crucial role. In this process, Jaspers journeyed from listening to the great minds of the past, through an inward dialogue with them, to one-sided lecturing while his audience was engaged in a straight-line listening, to an intimate dialogue with those he considered like-minded, to a multi-faceted dialogue, and finally to listening to his contemporaries and learning how to practice transactional listening-in-conversation in the process of a multi-layered communication he called a loving struggle. This evolution, paralleled by the transition of Japers’ philosophy from local-centered to world-centered makes his thinking attractive and useful today.
Influence of Cultivar and Processing on Peach Drink Acceptability and Yield

SUMMARY Redhaven, Suncrest and Elberta peaches were processed with and without skin/pit in the presence of pectinase for five hours at 20° or 35°. Resulting yield and overall acceptability were determined. Incubation at 35° increased yield over 20° for all variables. The absence of skin and/or pit increased juice yield. Over all variables, Suncrest produced the most acceptable peach juice. The lower incubation temperature produced a better quality juice. The presence of skin during incubation produced a more desirable drink while the presence of peach pits detracted from juice quality. The Suncrest peach cultivar produced the best quality juice.
The Millennial Brain and Risk

This paper explores new studies that the brain is not fully developed until an individual's mid-20s and how that impacts college students' sensitivities to high-risk behavior. The paper provides suggestions for campus administrators about how to transform the challenges associated with students' attractions to risky behavior into opportunities to help students mature. The paper also proposes policy suggestions and contains information about fire safety and the Amethyst Initiative.
Abstract 2421: SOD1 is required for tumor maintenance in a genetically engineered KRAS/TP53 non-small cell lung cancer mouse model

Lung cancer is the second most common cancer and the primary cause of cancer-related mortality globally. Over half a million people are estimated living with lung and bronchus cancer with a 5-year survival rate of 18%. Identifying and studying new drug targets are important for improving lung cancer patient survival. 80% to 85% of lung cancers are Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Knocking down and small molecule inhibition of Superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) has been shown to be cytotoxic to cultured NSCLC cells and mouse tumors, suggesting that SOD1 is important for NSCLC survival, thus presenting a promising therapeutic strategy. SOD1 rapidly converts superoxide anion to hydrogen peroxide. It is a critical component of the cellular antioxidant defense system. In addition, our laboratory has recently demonstrated that SOD1 has a novel function as a transcription factor that regulates oxidative stress response genes. Currently, there are no selective SOD1 inhibitors available to study physiological functions of SOD1. In our study, we show that genetically knockout SOD1 resulted in reduced tumor burden in lung cancer mouse model. Using mouse tumor-derived primary cancer cells, we further show that SOD1 is critical for NSCLC cell proliferation and survival. This study reveals novel functions of SOD1 that are of biological and translational significance, and provide further support for SOD1 as a promising therapeutic target for NSCLC. Citation Format: Xiaowen Wang, Justin Wong, Holly Van Remmen, Jessie Yanxiang Guo, Eileen White, X. F. Steven Zheng. SOD1 is required for tumor maintenance in a genetically engineered KRAS/TP53 non-small cell lung cancer mouse model [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2018; 2018 Apr 14-18; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 2421.
Sequential estimation of steady-state quantiles: lessons learned and future directions

We survey recent developments concerning Sequest and Sequem, two simulation-based sequential procedures for estimating steady-state quantiles. These procedures deliver improved point and confidence-interval (CI) estimators of a selected steady-state quantile, where the CI approximately satisfies user-specified requirements on the CI’s coverage probability and its absolute or relative precision. Sequest estimates a nonextreme quantile (i.e., its order is between 0.05 and 0.95) based on the methods of batching and sectioning. Sequem estimates extreme quantiles using a combination of batching, sectioning, and the maximum transformation. Two test problems show both the advantages and the limitations of these procedures. Based on the lessons learned in designing, justifying, implementing, and stress-testing Sequest and Sequem, we discuss future challenges in advancing the theory, algorithmic development, software implementation, performance evaluation, and practical application of improved procedures for steady-state quantile estimation.
Generalizability of Teacher Behavior: Stability of Observational Data within and across Facets of Classroom Environments.

The stability of teacher behavior as measured by the Spaulding Teacher Activity Recording Schedule (STARS) was estimated using two methods?generalizability theory and odd-even correlation with data aggregated over observations. A student teacher was found to have stable teaching styles in four out of five facets of classroom transaction. Unstable teaching styles were found in a facet composed of language arts and social studies instruction in an ungraded primary classroom. In contrast, stable teaching styles were found in the following facets: teacher-directed storytime in preschool, teacher directed choice activities in preschool, pupil-directed choice activities in preschool, and teacher-directed reading instruc tion in the ungraded primary classroom. STARS style coeffi cients were found to have a high level of generalizability (at or above .80) when teacher behavior was sampled and ag gregated over at least four occasions.
Treatment of Metastatic Castration-resistant Prostate Cancer With Abiraterone and Enzalutamide Despite PSA Progression.

Background/aim National guidelines offer little guidance on the use of PSA progression (PSA increase as defined below) as a clinical endpoint in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). The aim of the study was to examine treatment patterns/outcomes with abiraterone (abi)/enzalutamide (enza) throughout PSA progression and near the end of life (EOL). Patients and methods Cases of mCRPC treated with abi or enza from the New York Veterans Affairs (VA) from 6/2011-8/2017 were reviewed. Regression analyses were conducted to identify factors associated with continuation of abi/enza treatment up to the EOL, and survival. Results Of 184 patients, 72 received abi alone, 28 received enza alone, and 84 received both. Treatment was changed for PSA progression alone in 39.1% (abi) and 25.7% (enza) of patients. A total of 37 patients (20%) received abi/enza within 1 month before death, 30% of whom were receiving hospice services. Older patients and black patients were less likely to receive abi/enza up to the EOL. Conclusion Abi/enza are frequently discontinued for PSA progression alone and continued at EOL. The clinical benefit of these practices warrants additional study.
First Observation of a Family of Double-Charm Baryons

The SELEX experiment (E781) at Fermilab has candidates for high mass states decaying to Lambda_c+ K- pi+ and Lambda_c+ K- pi+ pi+, Cabibbo-allowed decay modes of doubly-charmed baryons Xi_cc+ and Xi_cc++. The masses are consistent with theoretical considerations, but the spectroscopy is surprising. Limited lifetime information suggests that tau_{Xi_cc++} \sim tau_{Xi_cc+}.
Cultural Considerations in the Treatment of African American Youth with Attenuated Psychosis Syndromes: The Importance of Socio-contextual and Clinical Factors

The identification and treatment of youth at risk for the development of psychotic disorders is a current priority in the mental health field, given the potential to prevent or mitigate negative outcomes. Although there are no established standards for preventive intervention for psychosis, the issue is receiving increasing attention from clinical researchers. Research findings in the United States suggest that African Americans experience higher rates of psychosis, exhibit more severe positive symptoms, and experience different pathways to care compared to Caucasian individuals. Current theoretical conceptualizations postulate that greater exposure to discrimination, social disadvantage, and other forms of stress contribute to elevated rates of psychosis among African Americans. Despite established differences among racial/ethnic groups in cultural values, beliefs, help-seeking behaviors, pathways to care, and treatment preferences, culturally adapted interventions to treat African American youth at risk for psychosis have not been developed. The purpose of this chapter is to discuss the key socio-contextual and clinical factors that mental health providers should consider when assessing and treating African American youth experiencing attenuated psychosis syndromes. Based on our discussion, we provide specific recommendations for clinicians working with this population, as well as future directions for research to continue to investigate causal mechanisms and develop culturally sensitive interventions.
Simple electronic model of enzymatic reactions

Abstract Electron transfers between active sites of the enzyme and the substrate (product) have been taken into account in kinetic equations for multistep enzymatic reactions with some reversible steps by introducing weak and strong chemisorption states for the intermediates based on Wolkenstein s electronic theory of catalysis originally developed for semiconductors. As a result, the expression for the reaction rate as a function of energy difference between the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) of the active site of the enzyme and the bonding state of the substrate (product) adsorbed onto the surface of the enzyme has been obtained. The case of interaction between the LUMO of the enzyme and the HOMO of the substrate, as well as different factors impacting on the rate of enzymatic reactions have been also discussed.
Mughal Arcadia: Persian Literature in an Indian Court: Sunil Sharma, Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press, 2017, ISBN 978-0-6749-7585-9 (hbk), 266 pp.

Sunil Sharma’s study of topographical poetry in early Mughal India (from the reign of Babur [1526–30] to Aurangzeb [1658–1707]), with a special focus on Shah Jahan’s time (1628–58), contains an int...
Predictors of Older Donor Lung Use: Are We Too Good at Saying No?

Background Patterns of use of older donor lungs within this previously underused donor population are poorly characterized. This study examined factors associated with the use of older donor lung allografts and factors associated with survival in recipients of these lungs. Methods Adult donors in the United Network for Organ Sharing registry who donated 1 or more organs for transplantation between 2006 and 2018 were analyzed and stratified into older (age >55 years) and younger (age ≤55 years) cohorts. Multivariable logistic and Cox regression were used to identify factors associated with transplantation of older donor lungs and factors associated with survival, respectively. Results Overall, 202,477 donors were included and stratified by age (older, 40,406 [20%]; younger, 162,071 [80%]). Compared with younger donors, older donors had an increased rate of consent for donation not requested by organ procurement organizations (7.5% vs 1.7%). Donor factors significantly associated with decreased lung use included male sex, increasing donor age, black race, Hispanic ethnicity, cigarette use, cocaine use, donation after circulatory death status, and PaO2/FiO2 (P/F ratio) lower than 350. In recipients of older donor lungs, increasing donor age (hazard ratio [HR], 1.03; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01, 1.05), recipient age 47 years or older (HR 1.03; 95% CI, 1.02, 1.04), and male sex (HR, 1.19; 95% CI, 1.02, 1.39) portended worse survival. Conclusions Barriers in consenting practices, concerns about organ function, and recipient survival prevent the widespread use of aged allografts for lung transplantation. Better understanding of factors associated with worse outcomes of older donors and modification of organ procurement organization consenting practices may increase the use of these higher-risk donor organs.
Liquid metals as ultra-stretchable, soft, and shape reconfigurable conductors

Conventional, rigid materials remain the key building blocks of most modern electronic devices, but they are limited in their ability to conform to curvilinear surfaces. It is possible to make electronic components that are flexible and in some cases stretchable by utilizing thin films, engineered geometries, or inherently soft and stretchable materials that maintain their function during deformation. Here, we describe the properties and applications of a micromoldable liquid metal that can form conductive components that are ultra-stretchable, soft, and shape-reconfigurable. This liquid metal is a gallium-based alloy with low viscosity and high conductivity. The metal develops spontaneously a thin, passivating oxide layer on the surface that allows the metal to be molded into non-spherical shapes, including films and wires, and patterned by direct-write techniques or microfluidic injection. Furthermore, unlike mercury, the liquid metal has low toxicity and negligible vapor pressure. This paper discusses the mechanical and electrical properties of the metal in the context of electronics, and discusses how the properties of the oxide layer have been exploited for new patterning techniques that enable soft, stretchable and reconfigurable devices.
Disaster Unaverted: Reconciling the Desire for a Safe and Secure State with the Grim Realities of Stand Your Ground

“On February 26, 2012, heavy pressures collided in a tempest resulting in Trayvon Martin’s death. On one side, an eager neighborhood watchman desperate to curtail the rising vandalism and crime in his gated community. On the other, a teenage boy walking from a nearby store through this same neighborhood toward the townhome where he was temporarily staying while visiting his father. In the background, a galvanizing law seven years looming, burrowing into societal norms, making it okay to shoot first and ask questions later.” Florida’s Stand Your Ground statutory scheme has dominated the media since the calamitous encounter between George Zimmerman and Trayvon Martin. This Article follows up on this Author’s 2010 article, Deadly Combinations: How Self-Defense Laws Pairing Immunity with a Presumption of Fear Allow Criminals to “Get Away with Murder, 34 Am. J. Trial Advoc. 105 (2010). In 2010, this Author predicted the law would promote a rise in vigilante justice in that it “creates a mindset to ‘shoot first, ask later.’” This Article takes that prediction a step further and boldly states that the legislature has fundamentally changed the nature of self-defense. Rather than recognizing an affirmative defense to arguably justifiable uses of force, it has legalized many forms of homicide. Additionally, this Article analyzes the law through a lens of embodied rationality to identify the culture-law-culture cycle and the competing narratives that (1) gave rise to the law, (2) impacted the actions of both Zimmerman and Martin, and (3) affected prosecution, defense, and judicial legal strategies and choices related to the shooting and resultant trial. This article concludes by asserting Florida’s Stand Your Ground law does not reflect collectively-held norms and values as evidenced by the media narratives surrounding Martin’s death. As such, this Article calls for legislative change to retreat from legalized homicide returning to the maxim of self-defense as an affirmative defense.
Abstract 15756: Vascular Guidance of Cardiomyocyte Proliferation During Growth and Regeneration

Introduction: Stimulating cardiomyocyte (CM) proliferation is a major strategy for achieving therapeutic heart regeneration. However, heart regeneration requires coordinated interactions of multipl...
Preventing drug problems in the feedlot

Production of wholesome meat products for the consumer is the primary objective of the livestock industry. Veterinarians, as professional caretakers of animal health have a responsibility in aiding producers in achieving this goal.
Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome Following Exposure to Oleoresin Capsicum "Pepper Spray".

Abstract Objectives To report a case associating the use of Oleoresin Capsicum Pepper Spray (OCPS) during law enforcement training with development of Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome (RCVS). Materials and Methods RCVS is radiographically characterized by multifocal smooth narrowing of cerebral arteries heralded by clinical manifestations of recurrent thunderclap headaches. 70% of cases with RCVS have a clear precipitating factor and agents commonly implicated were cannabis, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, nasal decongestants, cocaine, postpartum state, eclampsia and strenuous physical/sexual activity. 1 Results 24-year-old female police officer with no past medical history who presented with thunderclap headaches after exposure to pepper spray to her face during work training. Neurological examination was unremarkable. CT angiogram (CTA) of the head and neck and subsequent conventional angiogram revealed multifocal mild arterial narrowing of bilateral middle cerebral arteries (MCA), bilateral posterior cerebral arteries (PCA) and left anterior cerebral artery (ACA) concerning for RCVS. Eight weeks later, she had a repeat MRA head and neck demonstrating complete resolution of the previously noted narrowing of her cerebral arteries. Conclusions OCPS is widely used in law enforcement training as well as by general population as a self- defense tool. It is generally assumed to be safe, although the consequences of its use can never be predicted with certainty. 2 As our case highlights, use of OCPS may be associated with development of RCVS and awareness needs to be raised regarding this rare but serious complication.
An examination of the influence of PowerPoint lectures in higher education upon student assigned reading completion

Title from PDF of title page (University of Missouri--Columbia, viewed on October 19, 2012).
Assessing the impact of web‐based electronic commerce use on the organizational benefits of a firm: An empirical study

Purpose – The purpose of this study is to analyze the impact of web‐based electronic commerce (WEC) use on organizational benefits (OBE).Design/methodology/approach – The researchers develop a research model based on a literature review. A large‐scale instrument was applied to empirically test the model. MANOVA was first used employing a general linear model. Then, univariate tests were performed to further analyze differences. The model was tested and validated using a sample of 180 firms in the USA.Findings – The findings empirically tested that there is a significant positive impact of WEC use on OBE. Findings also demonstrated the multi‐dimensional nature of both factors.Practical implications – This research develops and validates reliable measures for the WEC use and OBE. It also provides several indicators that can be used to measure the extent of usage of WEC for both transactional and strategic purposes, and OBE that span several dimensions, including information quality, business efficiency, and...
Using temporal genetic switches to synchronize the unfolded protein response in cell populations in vivo

In recent years, recognition of the importance of protein aggregation in human diseases has increasingly come to the fore and it is clear that many degenerative disorders involve activation of a metabolic signaling cascade known as the unfolded protein response (UPR). The UPR encompasses conserved mechanisms in cells to monitor and react to changes in metabolic flux through the secretory pathway. Such changes reflect an imbalance in cell homeostasis and the UPR integrates several signaling cascades to restore homeostasis. As such, the UPR is simply interpreted as a protection mechanism for cells as they perform their normal functions. A number of groups have suggested that the UPR also can eliminate cells in which homeostasis is lost, for example, during disease. This notion has kindled the rather paradoxical concept that inhibiting the UPR will ameliorate degenerative disease. However, several in vivo studies in the nervous system indicate that curtailing UPR function either exacerbates disease or may reduce severity through unexpected or unidentified pathways. Perhaps the notion that the UPR protects cells or eliminates them stems from widespread use of suboptimal paradigms to characterize the UPR; thus, too little is currently known about this homeostatic pathway. Herein, I describe the development of genetic switch technology (GST) to generate a novel model for studying UPR diseases. The model is geared toward obtaining high resolution in vivo detail for oligodendrocytes of the central nervous system, but it can be adapted to study other cell types and other UPR diseases.
Hierarchical semantic-based index for ad hoc image retrieval

Ad hoc networks have received considerable research attention by provisions of wireless communications without location limitations and pre-built fixed infrastructure. Because of the absence of any static support infrastructure, ad hoc networks are prone to several limitations such as bandwidth, connectivity, and power. The traditional content-based image retrieval approaches employed in ad hoc networks may result in either high search cost or low fault tolerance. In this paper, we propose and analyze a decentralized nonflooding image retrieval scheme in multi-hop mobile ad hoc networks - Semantic Ad hoc Image Retrieval (SAIR). The novelty of SAIR stems from several factors including: (1) representation of image contents using first-order logic expressions; (2) clustering mobile nodes based on their data contents; (3) organizing image data with a hierarchical semantic-based indexing infrastructure; (4) performing content-based image retrieval within a reduced scope of mobile nodes. Through extensive simulations, we show that relative to the flooding strategy, SAIR can retrieve the semantically most similar image objects by accessing only a small portion of the mobile nodes with much lower search cost. Moreover, it is scalable to large network sizes and large number of data objects.