cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Hepatotoxicity and Drug Interactions in Liver Transplant Candidates and Recipients

In this article the medications that have been shown to increase rates of drug-induced liver injury in patients with cirrhosis and the important drug-drug interactions in recipients of liver transplantation are reviewed. In general, the risk of drug-induced liver injury in patients with cirrhosis does not seem to be higher when compared with the noncirrhotic population. There are, however, 2 classes of agents that have been implicated-medications used to treat tuberculosis and medications used to treat human immunodeficiency virus infection. However, with careful monitoring, even significant interactions can be effectively managed.
A 576-Year Weber River Streamflow Reconstruction from Tree Rings for Water Resource Risk Assessment in the Wasatch Front, Utah

We present a 576-year tree-ring-based reconstruction of streamflow for northern Utah's Weber River that exhibits considerable interannual and decadal-scale variability. While the 20th Century instrumental period includes several extreme individual dry years, it was the century with the fewest such years of the entire reconstruction. Extended droughts were more severe in duration, magnitude, and intensity prior to the instrumental record, including the most protracted drought of the record, which spanned 16 years from 1703 to 1718. Extreme wet years and periods are also a regular feature of the reconstruction. A strong early 17th Century pluvial exceeds the early 20th Century pluvial in magnitude, duration, and intensity, and dwarfs the 1980s wet period that caused significant flooding along the Wasatch Front. The long-term hydroclimatology of northern Utah is marked by considerable uncertainty; hence, our reconstruction provides water managers with a more complete record of water resource variability for assessment of the risk of droughts and floods for one of the largest and most rapidly growing population centers in the Intermountain West.
Application of fiber optics to the local area network

With the rapidly expanding availability of low-cost, sophisticated, digital terminal hardware and the trend toward distributed data acquisition and processing, there is a ground swell of activity in the development of local area networks (LAN) to provide Interconnect capability. The major focus of current activity is in the IEEE-802 committee. The emphasis is on baseband and broadband coaxial transmission media. However, because optical fiber systems utilize low-attenuation, broad bandwidth, and totally dielectric transmission media, they will complement current coaxial based networks and play a leading role in second-generation LANs having bandwidth distance products of ≥ 50 MBd km.
Ozone damage to plants

Abstract The necrotic stippling characterising ozone toxicity on many plant species provides a useful symptom for diagnosing injury; but less striking, untoward responses may be more universal and far more significant. General chlorosis and bronzing were particularly characteristic responses of woody species; but even in the absence of visible symptoms, fumigated plants became prematurely senescent, and older leaves dropped long before those of the control plants. Such responses developed on the more sensitive species including snowberry, aspen, bridlewreath, lilac, and gambel oak, following 2 hr. exposures to as little as 15 pphm ozone. Higher concentrations caused more characteristic stipple and bronzing.
Characterization of carrier states in CuWO4 thin-films at elevated temperatures using conductometric analysis

Abstract CuWO4 thin-films were deposited by pulsed laser deposition onto an insulating substrate. The temperature dependence of the electronic conductivity of CuWO4 thin-films was determined over 100–500 °C temperature range in a synthetic air atmosphere. Additionally, variations of conductivity at 300 °C and 500 °C have been measured for oxygen partial pressures (0.1 atm
Bridging Theory and Practice in Working With Queer Youth

Julie Tilsen has recently published a text for working with queer youth that adopts a constructionist framework to understand how the therapeutic process helps elucidate identity through dialogue and narrative. Practitioners and researchers alike can benefit from the unique perspectives of Tilsen and the Q-Squad, five queer-identified youth whose voices help translate queer theory into more concrete examples and ideas.
Exact solutions of the bloch equations with n-site chemical exchange

Abstract Exact solutions of the modified Bloch equations are obtained in the case of n-site chemical exchange. Solutions are given with initial data corresponding to arbitrary tip angles of the z component of the magnetization. These results are specialized for saturation-recovery and inversion-recovery experiments in two-site chemical exchange.
Regulation of neuronal growth cone filopodia by nitric oxide depends on soluble guanylyl cyclase.

Nitric oxide has been proposed to play an important role in neuronal development. We have previously shown that growth cones from an identified neuron, B5, in the snail Helisoma trivolvis, respond to nitric oxide (NO) donors by increasing the length of their filopodia within minutes of application (Van Wagenen and Rehder, 1999). This effect was mediated through a cGMP-induced increase in [Ca2+]i and resulted in an enlargement of the growth cone's action radius, suggesting that NO could function as a signaling molecule during neuronal pathfinding. We show here that NO functions as a specific rather than a general regulator of growth cone filopodia, because another identified neuron from the same ganglion, B19, failed to respond to NO with an increase in filopodial length. We found that, contrary to B5 neurons, B19 growth cones contained little or no soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC) immunoreactivity, presumably preventing their response to NO. This hypothesis was supported by the finding that the sGC activator YC-1 (10 microM) had no effect on B19 filopodia but induced elongation of B5 filopodia. These results indicate that the effects of NO can be quite specific, and raise the interesting possibility that neurons could selectively tune in to NO by differentially expressing the target enzyme sGC in the appropriate cellular location during critical developmental stages. In addition, our NADPH-diaphorase staining and anti-NOS immunohistochemisty suggest that growth cones of B5 neurons, but not of B19 neurons, could be a source of NO, making NO a potential intra- and transcellular messenger.
Information Exchange and Decision Making in the Treatment of Latina and White Women with Ductal Carcinoma In Situ

Abstract The natural history of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is largely unknown, and its optimal treatment remains controversial. Using semi-structured interviews, this study compared 18 White and 16 Latina women's understanding of their DCIS diagnosis, treatment decision-making processes, and satisfaction with care. Ethnic differences were observed in cognitive and emotional responses to DCIS, with White women generally reporting a better understanding of their diagnosis and treatment, and Latinas reporting more distress. Regardless of ethnicity, women with DCIS preferred that physicians discuss treatment options and attend to their informational and emotional needs. Satisfaction was associated with adequate information, expediency of care, and physicians' sensitivity to patients' emotional needs.
Increased bone mineral density after parathyroidectomy in primary hyperparathyroidism

Skeletal involvement in primary hyperparathyroidism is characterized by preferential loss of cortical bone, whereas cancellous bone is relatively spared. Little data are available concerning changes in bone density, particularly at sites containing more cancellous bone, after successful parathyroidectomy. Most patients with primary hyperparathyroidism are asymptomatic, but approximately 50% meet one or more criteria for surgery. In a prospective study of 34 patients who met one or more such criteria, bone density rose at all skeletal sites (lumbar spine, femoral neck, and the radius) in the 4 yr after surgery. The lumbar spine, with most cancellous bone, showed a rapid (mean +/- SE, yr 1, 8.2 +/- 2.0%; P < 0.005) and sustained (yr 4, 12.8 +/- 2.8%; P < 0.001) rise. Post-menopausal patients were similar (by yr 4, 12.5 +/- 2.7%; P < 0.005). At the femoral neck, with intermediate cancellous and cortical composition, a similar increase was noted (12.7 +/- 3.8% by yr 4; P < 0.01). The distal radius, containing mostly cortical bone, rose modestly (4.0 +/- 1.5% by yr 3; P < 0.05), except in patients with lowest preoperative bone density, where the increase was marked (12.3 +/- 2.6% by yr 3; P < 0.05). In patients meeting surgical guidelines, parathyroidectomy is associated with improved bone mineral density.
Neutral beam driven impurity flow reversal in tokamaks

Abstract A theory is outlined for explaining the observed effects of neutral beam injection on impurities in tokamak plasmas. In the collisional regime, it is shown for a representative model problem that for sufficiently strong co-injection the outward impurity flux component produced by the radial electric field becomes larger than the inward flux components due to the density gradient, rotation and direct beam-impurity momentum exchange, thereby producing an outward impurity flux. In the mixed regime, a preliminary version of the theory provides a reasonable interpretation of the PLT impurity flow reversal experiments when the effective viscous drag coefficient that is observed experimentally is used in the model. This preliminary theory, when adjusted to match the PLT results, predicts significant impurity reversal in TFTR and in a plasma of the size of FED and INTOR.
Vortex pinning and dynamics in layered superconductors with periodic pinning arrays

We examine vortex dynamics and pinning in layered superconductors using three-dimensional molecular dynamics simulations of magnetically interacting pancake vortices. Our model treats the magnetic interactions of the pancakes exactly, with long-range logarithmic interactions both within and between planes. At the matching field the vortices are aligned with the pinning array. As a function of tilt angle for the pinning arrays a series of commensuration effects occur, seen as peaks in the critical current, due to pancakes finding a favorable alignment.
Reviewing the confinement of small hive beetles (Aethina tumida) by western honey bees (Apis mellifera)

Although only scavengers in honey bee colonies in their native range of subsaharan Africa, small hive beetles can cause considerable damage in colonies of European honey bees in Australia and the south-eastern USA. Early research on the beetle focused mainly on its biology and control although there has recently been a shift towards studying its intra-colonial behaviour. Researchers have shown that when small hive beetles enter a bee colony, a cohort of guard bees confines them to the nest periphery (a bee response that limits beetle reproduction). Despite a myriad of bee behaviours that culminate in beetle confinement, the beetles are able to remain alive by soliciting food from their honey bee guards. Herein, I review confinement dynamics and the associated interactions.
Electrical properties of polymer nanocomposites containing rod-like nanofillers

Abstract We present an in-depth critical review of major experimental, simulation, and theoretical work in the field of conducting polymer nanocomposites containing rod-like particles such as carbon nanotubes and metal nanowires. These are a versatile class of materials that are of interest for a wide range of applications. Commercialization of various classes of conducting polymer nanocomposites is growing, yet achieving their full technological potential will hinge on the ability to engineer composites with controllable and well-defined properties, as well as aggressive exploration of new application areas. Thus, the focus of this review is to clarify key structure–property relationships, and to discuss the major gaps and greatest opportunities in the field.
Two point correlation function for general fields and temperatures in the critical region

A detailed calculation, to order ${\ensuremath{\epsilon}}^{2} (\ensuremath{\epsilon}=4\ensuremath{-}d)$, of the two-point-correlation function of an Ising-like system in the whole critical region is presented. The scaling function is shown to be a cut-off-independent function of two variables which is universal in the context of a sharp cut off. Explicit asymptotic expansions in the large and small momentum (relative to the inverse correlation length) are given. Particular attention is paid to the corrections from the Ornstein-Zernike theory. These corrections are two orders of magnitude larger below ${T}_{c}$ than above. Numerical comparison with series-expansion results agree surprisingly well. A powerful technique of evaluating diagrams using the Fourier transform of the propagator is also presented.
Nucleation of an intermetallic at thin-film interfaces: VSi2 contrasted with Al3Ni

We analyze the formation of VSi2 at the amorphous-vanadium-silicide/amorphous-Si interface by linear-heating and isothermal calorimetry, and cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy. We show evidence that indicates sporadic VSi2 nucleation with a steady-state nucleation rate after a transient period. The results are contrasted with those obtained for Al2Ni nucleating at the polycrystalline-Al/polycrystalline-Ni interface, where the kinetics appears to be controlled by growth of a fixed number of nuclei at quickly consumed preferred nucleation sites.
Evaluation of Cuban High Test Syrup in Chick Rations

Abstract IT HAS been reported that cane final molasses may be fed in chick starter rations at concentrations up to 34.5 percent; but optimum results, as determined by growth rate and cost of feed per pound of gain to 6 weeks of age, were obtained on levels of molasses ranging from 7.5 to 23.0 percent of total ration (Rosenberg, 1955). These conclusions were drawn from a study conducted with chicks reared on raised hardware cloth floors where the moisture of the droppings was of no consequence. However, it was noted that the moisture content of the feces increased as the concentration of molasses was raised, and it was suggested that this characteristic may be prejudicial to the commercial use of molasses at comparatively high levels despite its economic advantage. This investigation was undertaken to biologically assay Cuban produced “High Test” syrup, no comparable sugar cane by-product being available in Hawaii at…
Taurine analogues as modifiers of the accumulation of 45calcium ions in a rat retinal membrane preparation.

The effects of a series of taurine analogues on the accumulation of 45calcium ions in a crude rat retinal membrane preparation are reported. 45Calcium ion accumulation was measured at high (1.4 mM) calcium ion concentration in the presence and absence of ATP. In the absence of ATP, taurine and α-sulfo-β-ala-nine both inhibit 45calcium ion accumulation. α-Sulfo-β-alanine is the more potent of the two compounds (50% vs. 30% inhibition at 20 mM). The trans aminocycloalkanesulfonic acid analogues of taurine [(±)trans-2-aminocyclopen-tanesulfonic acid and (±)trans-2-aminocyclo-hexanesulfonic acid] are stimulators (3- to 4-fold) of 45calcium ion accumulation. In the presence of ATP (1.2 mM), taurine and the analogues of taurine had no effect. Structure-activity-relationships of these compounds pertinent to their effects on 45calcium ion accumulation at a high calcium ion concentration and in the absence of ATP are discussed. In addition, the inhibitory effects of taurine on 45calcium accumulation in subfraction...
Shortened nighttime sleep duration in early life and subsequent childhood obesity.

Objective To test associations between daytime and nighttime sleep duration and subsequent obesity in children and adolescents. Design Prospective cohort. Setting Panel Survey of Income Dynamics Child Development Supplements (1997 and 2002) from US children. Participants Subjects aged 0 to 13 years (n = 1930) at baseline (1997). Main Exposures Binary indicators of short daytime and nighttime sleep duration ( Main Outcome Measures Body mass index at follow-up (2002) was converted to age- and sex-specific z scores and trichotomized (normal weight, overweight, obese) using established cut points. Ordered logistic regression was used to model body mass index classification as a function of short daytime and nighttime sleep at baseline and follow-up, and important covariates included socioeconomic status, parents' body mass index, and, for children older than 4 years, body mass index at baseline. Results For younger children (aged 0-4 years at baseline), short duration of nighttime sleep at baseline was strongly associated with increased risk of subsequent overweight or obesity (odds ratio = 1.80; 95% confidence interval, 1.16-2.80). For older children (aged 5-13 years), baseline sleep was not associated with subsequent weight status; however, contemporaneous sleep was inversely associated. Daytime sleep had little effect on subsequent obesity in either group. Conclusions Shortened sleep duration in early life is a modifiable risk factor with important implications for obesity prevention and treatment. Insufficient nighttime sleep among infants and preschool-aged children may be a lasting risk factor for subsequent obesity. Napping does not appear to be a substitute for nighttime sleep in terms of obesity prevention.
Cell Staining: Fluorescence imaging of mitochondrial structure and function

Staining of mitochondria with fluorescent dyes, antibodies or mitochondria-targeted naturally fluorescent molecules contributes to the study of mitochondrial structure and function in normal physiological and pathophysiological states. Using these techniques, the mitochondrial permeability transition and redox state can be probed. Keywords: cell staining; fluorescent labelling; permeability transition; membrane potential; apoptosis; reactive oxygen species
Assessing the Distribution of Safe Routes to School Program Funds, 2005–2012

Methods: The study analyzes all SRTS projects awarded between 2005 and 2012 (N¼5532) by using descriptive statistics to profile SRTS funding amounts and purposes, and to compare demographic and neighborhood characteristics of schools with and without SRTS programs. Analysis was conducted in 2013. Results: The average SRTS award was $158,930 and most funding was spent on infrastructure (62.8%) or combined infrastructure and non-infrastructure (23.5%) projects. Schools benefiting from the SRTS program served higher proportions of Latino students and were more likely to be in higher-density areas. Few differences existed in neighborhood demographics, particularly educational attainment, work-trip commute mode, and median household income. Conclusions: Schools benefiting from the SRTS program are more urban and have higher Latino populations but are otherwise comparable to U.S. public schools. This suggests that disadvantaged areas have had access to the SRTS program. (Am J Prev Med 2013;45(4):401–406) & 2013 American Journal of Preventive Medicine
Effect of Mo Addition on Structure and Magnetocaloric Effect in γ-FeNi Nanocrystals

Nanocrystalline powders of (Fe70Ni30)100−xMox (x = 1 to 4) were produced by high-energy (SPEX) mechanical alloying. Increasing the Mo content was found to stabilize the face-centered cubic phase in mechanically alloyed nanopowders. To obtain a single γ-phase, a powdered sample was solution annealed in the γ-phase field and water quenched. The Curie temperature, TC, of the alloys was lowered with Mo addition, without decreasing the refrigeration capacity (RC), due to the additional temperature broadening of the magnetic entropy change. Based on previous study on the role of disorder, the additional temperature broadening was attributed to increased positional disorder and changes in the distribution of ferromagnetic exchange bonds introduced by Mo addition into the γ-FeNi system. (Fe70Ni30)97Mo3 and (Fe70Ni30)96Mo4 alloys have RCFWHM values of ∼440 J/kg and ∼432 J/kg at 5 T, comparable to other prominent magnetic refrigerants operating near room temperature. The economic viability of these alloys, along with their competitive magnetocaloric properties and potential for scalable production, make them good candidate magnetic refrigerants without critical rare-earth materials.
Major life events and the risk of a child maltreatment investigation

Abstract We examined whether moving to a new home, having a baby, being arrested, or having a child who is suspended or expelled from school increases low-income parents' (n=1137) risk of being investigated for child maltreatment. These events posed a significant risk for investigations that was not explained by parenting stress or material hardship. We hypothesize that caregivers on welfare and those who experience major life events are investigated more often because they are more visible to those placing reports to the child protection system.
Are patients with carotid stenosis receiving optimal medical therapy? (P2.265)

Objective: To characterize the patterns of vascular medication use in patients with moderate to severe carotid stenosis. Background: Patients with carotid stenosis are at increased risk for not only stroke but also cardiac ischemic events. Therefore, optimizing aggressive medical therapy can potentially reduce stroke rates and increase long-term survival. Methods: We reviewed consecutive carotid Duplex studies over a 16 months period (November 2009-June 2010) in patients presenting to a Neurology Department neurovascular lab. Only studies were included in whom a self-completed questionnaire inquiring about past medical history and current medication use was available. All studies were reviewed for the presence of more than 50[percnt] carotid stenosis, defined in compliance with the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission diagnostic standards. Results: A total of 463 studies were available for review. Mean age of patients was 65 ±14years, 229 (49[percnt]) were women. Hypertension was reported in 270 (58[percnt]), diabetes in 121 (26[percnt]) and dyslipidemia in 228 (49[percnt]). A history of stroke was noted in 189 (41[percnt]). Stenosis >50[percnt] was found in 101 (22[percnt]). In patients with >50[percnt] carotid stenosis, 73 (72[percnt]) reported no statin use, despite 64 (63[percnt]) self-reporting a history of dyslipidemia. We found no gender differences in statin use in patients with >50[percnt] stenosis. In patients with symptomatic and asymptomatic stenosis, the rate of statin use was 28[percnt] in both groups. The rate of antiplatelet therapy use was 20[percnt] in patients with asymptomatic stenosis. Conclusion: Despite the presence of established large vessel atherosclerosis, a sizable proportion of patients reported that they were not receiving statin therapy or aspirin. Intensification of “real world” medical therapy will be important to reduce stroke rates and improve long-term survival. Disclosure: Dr. Koch has nothing to disclose. Dr. Chaturvedi has received personal compensation for activities with Genentech, Inc., Abbott Vascular, Boehringer-Ingelheim, WL Gore, and Merck. Dr. Chaturvedi has received personal compensation in an editorial capacity for NEJM Journal Watch Neurology. Dr. Romano has received personal compensation for activities with NovaVision.
Beyond fault trees to fault graphs

Abstract Fault graphs are the natural evolutionary step over a traditional fault-tree model. A fault graph is a failure-oriented directed graph with logic connectives that allows cycles. We intentionally construct the fault graph to trace the piping and instrumentation drawing (P& ID) of the system, but with logical AND and OR conditions added. Then we evaluate the fault graph with computer codes based on graph—theoretical methods.
Are condoms effective in reducing the risk of sexually transmitted disease

This article reviews the US Department of Health and Human Services July 20 2001 report that concluded that consistent use of condoms gave the best risk reduction for HIV in both males and females and for gonorrhea in males. The author discusses a number of studies cited in a National Institutes of Health bibliography that accompanied the report stating that these studies were not given enough attention.
Ascorbic acid requirements for smokers: analysis of a population survey

The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of ascorbic acid for smokers was recently increased from 60 to 100 mg. To determine whether this new RDA for smokers is sufficient to reduce the risk of low serum ascorbic acid (AA) concentrations (LoC) to the same concentration as nonsmokers, we analyzed the dietary intakes and serum concentrations of AA in 11,582 adult respondents in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (1976-1980). Serum AA concentrations and the risk of LoC (serum ascorbic acid levels less than 23 mumol/L) for smokers consuming different amounts of AA were compared with those for nonsmokers whose AA intake exceeded the RDA (60 mg). Serum AA concentrations were reduced, and risk of LoC increased, in smokers maintaining AA intakes greater than 60, 100, and 150 mg. Only smokers consuming greater than 200 mg AA/d had serum ascorbate concentrations and risk of LoC equivalent to nonsmokers meeting the RDA.
Symbolic Robustness Analysis

A key feature of control systems is robustness, the property that small perturbations in the system inputs cause only small changes in its outputs. Robustness is key to designing systems that work under uncertain or imprecise environments. While continuous control design algorithms can explicitly incorporate robustness as a design goal, it is not clear if robustness is maintained at the software implementation level of the controller: two ``close'' inputs can execute very different code paths which may potentially produce vastly different outputs. We present an algorithm and a tool to characterize the robustness of a control software implementation. Our algorithm is based on symbolic execution and non-linear optimization, and computes the maximum difference in program outputs over all program paths when a program input is perturbed. As a by-product, our algorithm generates a set of test vectors which demonstrate the worst-case deviations in outputs for small deviations in inputs. We have implemented our approach on top of the Splat test generation tool and we describe an evaluation of our implementation on two examples of automotive control code.
Actuator and sensor placement for modal parameter estimation

A technique is presented for combined actuator and sensor placement for modal parameter estimation. This method uses a criterion based on the variance of modal parameters calculated using a perturbation analysis. An efficient implementation that uses the FFT is introduced. It is shown that input locations affect the selection of sensor locations and that input locations have a significant impact on the identifiability of the modes. It is also shown that sensor placement for modal parameter estimation from acceleration measurements is dominated by the modes having the lowest frequencies. (Author)
Quantum Dots for Live Cells, in Vivo Imaging, and Diagnostics

Research on fluorescent semiconductor nanocrystals (also known as quantum dots or qdots) has evolved over the past two decades from electronic materials science to biological applications. We review current approaches to the synthesis, solubilization, and functionalization of qdots and their applications to cell and animal biology. Recent examples of their experimental use include the observation of diffusion of individual glycine receptors in living neurons and the identification of lymph nodes in live animals by near-infrared emission during surgery. The new generations of qdots have farreaching potential for the study of intracellular processes at the single-molecule level, high-resolution cellular imaging, long-term in vivo observation of cell trafficking, tumor targeting, and diagnostics.
Integrating Library Services

ABSTRACT The migration of information resources and library use from predominantly print/on-site use to electronic/online use has created a fragmented set of systems for libraries and users. In addition, the growing complications associated with doing research in libraries as compared to the ease of use of Web-based search engines is causing libraries to review system design and review their approach to the provision of information and services. Popular trends including information portals, federated/meta-search systems, and link resolvers are being used in attempts to re-integrate library systems and provide better search interfaces. Despite their advantages, each of these applications falls short of creating the seamless experience that patrons are becoming used to finding on the Web. As a possible solution to this, a specific suggestion of an information service based Web service application is discussed to help connect users to libraries at a point of information need. doi:10.1300/J136v12n03_10
A conserved 90 nucleotide element mediates translational repression of nanos RNA

Correct formation of the Drosophila body plan requires restriction of nanos activity to the posterior of the embryo. Spatial regulation of nanos is achieved by a combination of RNA localization and localization-dependent translation such that only posteriorly localized nanos RNA is translated. Cis-acting sequences that mediate both RNA localization and translational regulation lie within the nanos 3′ untranslated region. We have identified a discrete translational control element within the nanos 3′ untranslated region that acts independently of the localization signal to mediate translational repression of unlocalized nanos RNA. Both the translational regulatory function of the nanos 3′UTR and the sequence of the translational control element are conserved between D. melanogaster and D. virilis. Furthermore, we show that the RNA helicase Vasa, which is required for nanos RNA localization, also plays a critical role in promoting nanos translation. Our results specifically exclude models for translational regulation of nanos that rely on changes in polyadenylation.
Stimulated Bronchial Epithelial Cells Release Bioactive Lysophosphatidylcholine 16:0, 18:0, and 18:1

Purpose: In human subjects and animal models with acute and chronic lung injury, the bioactive lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) is elevated in lung lining fluids. The increased LPC can promote an inflammatory microenvironment resulting in lung injury. Furthermore, pathological lung conditions are associated with upregulated phospholipase A2 (PLA2), the predominant enzyme producing LPC in tissues by hydrolysis of phosphatidylcholine. However, the lung cell populations responsible for increases of LPC have yet to be systematically characterized. The goal was to investigate the LPC generation by bronchial epithelial cells in response to pathological mediators and determine the major LPC species produced. Methods: Primary human bronchial epithelial cells (NHBE) were challenged by vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) for 1 or 6 hours, and condition medium and cells collected for quantification of predominant LPC species by high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS-MS). The cells were analyzed by quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) for PLA2. The direct effects of LPC in inducing inflammatory activities on NHBE were assessed by transepithelial resistance as well as expression of interleukin-8 (IL-8) and matrix metalloprotein ase-1 (MMP-1). Results: VEGF stimulation of NHBE for 1 or 6 hours, significantly increased concentrations of LPC16:0, LPC18:0, and LPC18:1 in condition medium compared to control. The sPLA2-selective inhibitor (oleyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine) inhibited the VEGF-induced release of LPC16:0 and LPC18:1 and PLA2 activity. In contrast, NHBE stimulated with TNF did not induce LPC release. VEGF did not increase mRNA of PLA2 subtypes sPLA2-X, sPLA2-XIIa, cPLA2-IVa, and iPLA2-VI. Exogenous LPC treatment increased expression of IL-8 and MMP-1, and reduced the transepithelial resistance in NHBE. Conclusions: Our findings indicate that VEGF-stimulated bronchial epithelial cells are a key source of extracellular LPCs, which can function as an autocrine mediator with potential to induce airway epithelial inflammatory injury.
Correcting for nonavailability bias in surveys by weighting based on number of callbacks

Abstract When respondents to sample surveys differ from nonrespondents, bias can result. Nonresponse is produced by both refusal and nonavailability. Here we concentrate on nonavailability. Clever weighting schemes to deal with nonavailability bias were proposed about 40 years ago by Politz and Simmons and by Simmons, but further theoretical development has been limited. In the meantime, not only have in-person surveys continued to flourish, but telephone surveys also have become common. Herein we present weighting techniques that correct for nonavailability bias yet avoid limitations of earlier methods. The weights (which depend on parameters) are based on the number of callbacks needed to obtain the interview from the sample member, and usually increase with the number of callbacks. If a sample design generated sample weights that are not all the same, those external weights are easily incorporated into the analysis. We assume a beta distribution for p, the probability or proportion of time that a sampl...
Radiotherapy and the abscopal effect: insight from the past, present, and future

The abscopal effect is a rare phenomenon in radiation oncology where radiotherapy has a therapeutic effect at a distance from the intended treatment field. This effect has resulted in dramatic clinical responses in metastatic cancer patients. Despite clinical reports describing this phenomenon for over six decades, the abscopal effect is still not well understood. In this systematic review, we summarize and review the clinical and preclinical data that have investigated the mechanisms of this effect and consider the potential of exploiting its use in cancer care.
Abstract PL04-01: Early Detection Research Network: Biomarker discovery and validation - A team approach

While the principle of early detection and treatment of cancer through the use of diagnostic tests including biomarkers may seem to be a straightforward process, the rate of registration of new cancer-related biomarkers (approximately one per year) illustrates the substantial challenges to this science. Essential elements of a successful biomarker include sensitivity in the face of cancer, specificity in the cancer-free state as well as in the face of disease which may clinically mimic cancer or which is associated with a higher cancer risk, a reproducible, accurate, and portable assay, and, more recently, evidence that the specifics of the cancer detected (stage and prognosis, for example) leads to reductions in morbidity, mortality, or, possibly, cost. There is possibly no greater opportunity for team science to merge discovery, validation, and clinical efficacy than in cancer biomarkers. The EDRN, now 11 years old, envisioned such a collaboration, including Biomarker Development Laboratories, Biomarker Reference Laboratories, Clinical Validation Centers, an Informatics Center, and a Data Management and Coordinating Center. EDRN member institutions participate in organ working groups including Breast and Ovarian, GI, Prostate and GU, and Lung. Organ working groups function as teams, all focused on collaborative science with the ultimate goal of validation of biomarkers for the purpose of improvements in clinical care. Cross-organ-site team collaborations also occur as biomarkers or concepts that are applicable to multiple organ sites are evaluated. Teams include biostatistical expertise that has developed new methods for biomarker evaluation and validation. Finally, the EDRN is an open organization that seeks to partner with non-EDRN investigators through sharing of biospecimens, clinical data, and new analysis techniques to further the goal of early cancer detection. Citation Information: Cancer Prev Res 2011;4(10 Suppl):PL04-01.
Activation of factors XII (Hageman) and XI (PTA) by skin contact.

SummaryIncubation of non-contact normal plasma in contact with unbroken skin surfaces results in accelerated clotting of the plasma. The clot-promoting effect of skin contact is exerted by activation of Factors XII and XI.
A Study on Farmers' Cognitive of Food Safety Regulation and Their Decision-making Behavior of Pesticide Use in the Export-Oriented Vegetable Production Area

Food safety and residual pesticide have long been a public concern.Based on the survey data from 392 farmers in Anqiu,Shandong,this paper analyzed farmers' cognitive of food safety regulation and their decision-making behavior of pesticide use in the export-oriented vegetable production area.The study showed that farmers' education level,the percentage of agricultural products exported,farmers' evaluation of both domestic,foreign agricultural market and whether to accept pesticide residue detection significantly affect their cognitive level of food safety regulation;while the average production cost,whether to accept pesticide residues detection,the level of testing standards and whether to keep a production record are all factors that influence farmers' pesticide use.In addition,this paper also found that,the implementation of this regulation could lead to adverse selection in the farmers and the pesticide usage behavior of each farmer depends on their different crop types.In view of the characteristics of agricultural products and food safety situation nowadays,to accelerate the transformation of local farming mode and protect the environment,government should give more training and technical instructions to farmers,guide them to enhance their connection with local industrial organization,conduct pesticide residue testing in a efficient way,and optimize crop structure so as to improve the quality and therefore the international competence of their products.
IBD Diagnosis and Evaluation

The diagnosis and evaluation of ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease is critically important to provide appropriate patient care. Familiarity with modes of clinical presentation allows the clinician to promptly select the most efficient combination of tests. Knowledge of histologic findings of ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease facilitates discussion with other physicians of the care team and tailors specific medical and surgical therapies. Serologic tests such as ASCA, pANCA, and fecal markers such as calprotectin are increasingly becoming utilized for diagnosis and treatment effectiveness monitoring. Technologic advances in endoscopy are dramatically altering the usefulness of these already critically valuable tools. High definition images, chromoendoscopy, confocal laser endomicroscopy, and double balloon enteroscopy add to the ability to diagnose and treat. Similar advances in radiology are revolutionizing the care of the IBD patient as capsule endoscopy, computerized tomography and computerized tomography enterography, magnetic resonance imaging, and magnetic resonance enterography provide previously unimagined ability to visualize disease.
Integrating Leadership Development with Ignatian Spirituality: A Model for Designing a Spiritual Leader Development Practice

Prominent scholars note that current approaches to leader development in business are insufficient in at least three ways, and call for approaches that teach leaders to process and reflect, take personal ownership, and develop their capacities for both proficient and morally centered leadership. This paper explores three related research questions: Can we use evidence from management research to build a process-based model of leader self-development? Does the spiritual leadership literature offer implications for integrating moral development into such a model? Can spiritual development processes from a long-standing tradition be integrated, to further bring spiritual and moral development into leader development? Based on the leader and leadership development, spiritual leadership, and Ignatian literatures, one approach to building a spiritual leader development practice is presented. Using this model, business leaders are guided in forming leader development practices based on six categories of interdependent developmental activities: planning with discernment, experiences based on vocation, reflection including spiritual notes, assessment including examining present faults, education including on the lives of moral and effective leaders, and relationships including spiritual direction. This approach is differentiated from other approaches to leader development and to spiritual leadership. The role of the specific spiritual practices used here versus other traditions and the interplay of religion and spirituality in leader development are discussed, along with limitations of this approach and suggestions for further research.
When Can I Drive After Orthopaedic Surgery? A Systematic Review.

Background Patients often ask their doctors when they can safely return to driving after orthopaedic injuries and procedures, but the data regarding this topic are diverse and sometimes conflicting. Some studies provide observer-reported outcome measures, such as brake response time or simulators, to estimate when patients can safely resume driving after surgery, and patient survey data describing when patients report a return to driving, but they do not all agree. We performed a systematic review and quality appraisal for available data regarding when patients are safe to resume driving after common orthopaedic surgeries and injuries affecting the ability to drive.
Abstract 2618: Oncogenic mutant KRAS modulates CREB activation through MEK-ERK and AKT signaling in pancreatic cancer

Introduction: Cyclic AMP (cAMP) response element binding (CREB) overexpression in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is associated with poor outcome, however, the mechanism(s) driving CREB overexpression in PDAC are not fully understood. We investigated the association of CREB activation with oncogenic KRAS, MEK-ERK and AKT signaling pathways. Experimental procedure: Mouse lines derived from the Ptf1aCre/+; LSL-KrasG12D/+ (K518), Ptf1acre/+;LSL-KrasG12D/+;Tgfbr2flox/flox (PKT), LSL-KrasG12D/+;Pdx1Cre/+ (PanIN) and LSL-KrasG12D/+; Trp53R172H/+;Pdx1Cre/+ (PDA) mouse models of PDAC, human immortalized pancreatic ductal epithelial lines (HPDE6-E6E7 or H6c7, HPNE E6/E7 and HPNE E6/E7/KRAS) were immunoblotted for phospho-CREB (pCREB) and total CREB expression. KRAS mutant PDAC cell lines and CREB shRNA flank xenografts (PKT GEMM and nude mice) were treated with CREB (ICG-001), MEK (AZD6244) and AKT (MK-2206) inhibitors. The effects on downstream signaling targets were interrogated with cell cycle, apoptosis, survival and anchorage-independent growth analysis. Human CREB shRNA cells were treated with AZD6244 and MK-2206 to confirm the molecular mechanism of the CREB inhibition together with MEK and AKT. Results: The expression of pCREB was higher in cells with KRAS mutation. MEK inhibition resulted in activation of AKT, while combined inhibition of CREB and MEK prevented AKT reactivation. Treatment with the combination of MEK and CREB inhibitors significantly decreased tumorigenic potential and increased cell apoptosis. Combined MEK, AKT and CREB inhibition synergistically enhanced these effects further, more so in KRAS mutant cell lines. To explore the relationship of CREB, MEK and AKT signaling in vivo, PKT mice were treated with their respective inhibitors individually and in combination. Either CREB/MEK or CREB/AKT two drug combinations significantly extended the median survival compared with individual agents. Lysates from MEK and AKT inhibited tumors showed decreased phosphorylation of CREB, confirming that CREB is activated through both, MEK and AKT signaling in vivo. Conclusions: Our study demonstrates that oncogenic KRAS activation enhances the expression of CREB through MEK and AKT signaling. CREB inhibition results in increased sensitivity to MEK and AKT targeted therapy in KRAS mutant PDACs. Citation Format: Jason Castellanos, Supriya Srinivasan, Kumar Honnenahally, Chanjuan Shi, Michael VanSaun, David Robbins, Nipun Merchant, Nagaraj Nagathihalli. Oncogenic mutant KRAS modulates CREB activation through MEK-ERK and AKT signaling in pancreatic cancer. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 107th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2016 Apr 16-20; New Orleans, LA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(14 Suppl):Abstract nr 2618.
PLATFORM FOR VIRTUAL PROTOTYPING OF ADVANCED DISTRIBUTION MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS USING PYTHON AND OPENDSS

Successfully realizing the potential benefits offered by advanced distribution management systems (DMS) and distribution automation (DA) depends greatly on the ability to model and simulate these controls at the system planning and design stage. To demonstrate and quantify the benefits of these types of assessments, the System Control Interface (SCI) module was developed working with OpenDSS to create a “sandbox” simulation platform. This platform permits existing or potential advanced distribution controls to be quickly modeled and assessed using actual system planning models. This paper provides an overview of the SCI module and an illustrative example application for an innovative Volt/VAR Optimization algorithm incorporating distributed energy resources (DER).
Remote cannulation and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation transport is safe in a newly established program

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) has become an increasingly utilized modality for the support of patients with severe cardiac or pulmonary dysfunction. Unfortunately, the costs and expertise required to maintain a formal ECMO program preclude the vast majority of hospitals from employing such technology routinely. These barriers to implementation of an effective ECMO program highlight the importance of the safe transport of patients in need of extracorporeal support. While many centers with extensive expertise in the management of patients on extracorporeal support have demonstrated their ability to transport those same patients, the ability of new ECMO programs to provide such transportation remains poorly studied. We established an ECMO program at our institution and immediately provided equipment and personnel to transport patients in need of or receiving extracorporeal support to our institution. Overall, we found that 13 out of 28 patients transported to our institution on ECMO or for consideration of ECMO support during the first 15 months of the program survived to hospital discharge. During that period, four incidents associated with patient transport occurred but none were related to ECMO support or adversely affected patient outcome. These observations demonstrate that new ECMO programs can safely and reliably transport patients on or in need of extracorporeal support.
Genetic Variation in Gremmeniella abietina

Heterogenic incompatibility occurs in Gremmeniella abietina. Hyphal anastomosis occurred between European and North American isolates. Immunogenic tests of single ascospore cultures from a single apothecium collected in the field suggests hybridization between European and North American strains. Conidia produced from single ascospore cultures typing as either European or North American from the above apothecium, were used to inoculate seedlings of several species of pine, spruce, fir, larch, and Douglas-fir. Both strains infected all hosts, except that white fir was not infected by the European strain. The North American strain generally caused greater percent infection than the European strain.