cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Deposition and air concentrations of permethrin and naled used for adult mosquito management.

One of the most effective ways of managing adult mosquitoes that vector human and animal pathogens is the use of ultra-low-volume (ULV) insecticides. Because of the lack of environmental fate studies and concerns about the safety of the insecticides used for the management of adult mosquitoes, we conducted an environmental fate study after truck-mounted applications of permethrin and naled. One hour after application, concentrations of permethrin on cotton dosimeters placed at ground level 25, 50, and 75 m from the spray source were 2, 4, and 1 ng/cm2 in 2007 and 5, 2, and 0.9 ng/cm2 in 2008, respectively. One hour after application, concentrations of naled 25, 50, and 75 m were 47, 66, and 67 ng/cm2 in 2007 and 15, 6.1, and 0 (nondetectable) ng/cm2 in 2008, respectively. Deposition concentrations 12 h after application were not significantly different than 1 h after application for permethrin and naled either year. During 2007 and 2008 permethrin applications, two quantifiable air concentrations of 375 and 397 ng/m3 were observed 1 h after application. In 2007 and 2008, naled air concentrations ranged from 2300 to 4000 ng/m3 1 h after application. There were no quantifiable air concentrations between 1 and 12 h after application in either 2007 or 2008 for both naled and permethrin. Environmental concentrations observed in this study demonstrate that models used in previous risk assessments were sufficiently conservative (i.e., the models overestimated environmental concentrations). However, we also demonstrate inadequacies of models such as AgDrift® and AGDISP, which currently are used by the US Environmental Protection Agency to estimate environmental concentrations of ULV insecticides.
Histone H3 K36 Methylation Is Associated with Transcription Elongation in Schizosaccharomyces pombe

Set2 methylation of histone H3 at lysine 36 (K36) has recently been shown to be associated with RNA polymerase II (Pol II) elongation in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. However, whether this modification is conserved and associated with transcription elongation in other organisms is not known. Here we report the identification and characterization of the Set2 ortholog responsible for K36 methylation in the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe. We find that similar to the budding yeast enzyme, S. pombe Set2 is also a robust nucleosome-selective H3 methyltransferase that is specific for K36. Deletion of the S. pombe set2+ gene results in complete abolishment of K36 methylation as well as a slow-growth phenotype on plates containing synthetic medium. These results indicate that Set2 is the sole enzyme responsible for this modification in fission yeast and is important for cell growth under stressed conditions. Using the chromatin immunoprecipitation assay, we demonstrate that K36 methylation in S. pombe is associated with the transcribed regions of Pol II-regulated genes and is devoid in regions that are not transcribed by Pol II. Consistent with a role for Set2 in transcription elongation, we find that S. pombe Set2 associates with the hyperphosphorylated form of Pol II and can fully rescue K36 methylation and Pol II interaction in budding yeast cells deleted for Set2. These results, along with our finding that K36 methylation is highly conserved among eukaryotes, imply a conserved role for this modification in the transcription elongation process.
Tobacco Smoke Induces Urokinase-Type Plasminogen Activator and Cell Invasiveness: Evidence for an Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor–Dependent Mechanism

Multiple tobacco smoke-related premalignant and malignant lesions develop synchronously or metachronously in various organ sites, including the oral cavity. Both field cancerization and clonal migration seem to contribute to the occurrence of multiple tumors. Although the importance of endogenous factors (e.g., oncogenes) in regulating clonal migration is well established, little is known about the role of exogenous factors. Hence, the main objective of this study was to elucidate the mechanism by which tobacco smoke stimulated the migration of cells through extracellular matrix (ECM). Treatment of MSK-Leuk1 cells with a saline extract of tobacco smoke induced the migration of cells through ECM. Tobacco smoke induced the expression of urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA), resulting in plasmin-dependent degradation of ECM and increased cell migration. AG1478, a small-molecule inhibitor of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase, a neutralizing antibody to EGFR, or an antibody to amphiregulin, an EGFR ligand, also blocked tobacco smoke-mediated induction of uPA and cell migration through ECM. PD98059, an inhibitor of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) kinase activity, caused similar inhibitory effects. Taken together, these results suggest that tobacco smoke activated the EGFR-->extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 MAPK pathway, causing induction of uPA. This led, in turn, to increased plasmin-dependent degradation of matrix proteins and enhanced cell migration through ECM. These data strongly suggest that chemicals in tobacco smoke can mimic the effects of oncogenes in regulating uPA-dependent cell invasion through ECM. These findings also strengthen the rationale for determining whether inhibitors of EGFR tyrosine kinase reduce the risk of tobacco smoke-related second primary tumors.
Steganalysis of ±1 Embedding using Lossless Image Compression

We present a method for detecting steganography using plusmn1 embedding. The method uses a lossless compression technique to compress the last two bitplanes in an effort to model the image structure where the data may be hidden. A small number of statistics are then computed using the model and fed into a support vector machine to classify detection results. Results presented are obtained using k-fold cross-validation method using a large set of never compressed grayscale images. Detection results show improvement over current plusmn1 steganalysis methods.
New Strategies in Glioblastoma: Exploiting the New Biology

Glioblastoma is one of the deadliest human cancers. There have been few significant therapeutic advances in the field over the past two decades, with median survival of only about 15 months despite aggressive neurosurgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. Nevertheless, the past 5 years has seen an explosion in our understanding of the genetic and molecular underpinnings of these tumors, leading to renewed optimism about potential new therapeutic approaches. Several of the most promising new approaches include oncogenic signal transduction inhibition, angiogenesis inhibition, targeting canonical stem cell pathways in glioblastoma stem cells, and immunotherapy. As promising as many of these approaches appear, they have not had an impact yet on the natural history of the disease or on patient long-term outcomes. Nevertheless, it is hoped that with time such approaches will lead to more effective treatments, but issues such as the unique biology and anatomy of the central nervous system, impaired drug delivery, poor preclinical models with resultant nonpredictive preclinical screening, and poor clinical trial design potentially impede the rapid development of such new therapies. In this article, we review the excitement and challenges that face the development of effective new treatments that exploit this new biology.
The Reduction of Apparent Contrast by the Atmosphere

A veil of atmospheric haze reduces the visibility of all distant objects by decreasing their apparent contrast. In this paper equations are derived which describe the manner in which the apparent contrast of any object depends upon the distance of the observer. The treatment is not limited to horizontal paths of sight, but applies also to the apparent contrast of objects on the ground as seen from the air, and to the apparent contrast of objects aloft as viewed from the ground. The equations are not limited to the case of a homogeneous standard atmosphere; they may be applied to many kinds of non-standard atmospheric conditions. For every path of sight there exists a luminance level which will be transmitted unchanged. The apparent luminance of any receding object approaches this equilibrium level. For many paths of sight the equilibrium luminance is matched by the luminance of some portion of the horizon sky.
Do Private Equity Returns Result from Wealth Transfers and Short-Termism? Evidence from a Comprehensive Sample of Large Buyouts

We test whether the well-documented high returns of private equity sponsors result from wealth transfers from other financial claimants and counterparties and from a focus on short-term profits at the expense of long-term value. Debt investors who finance buyouts, as well as buyers of private equity portfolio companies, represent the two potential sources of wealth transfers. However, we find that, on average, public companies benefit when they buy financial sponsors' portfolio companies, experiencing positive abnormal returns upon the announcement of the acquisition and long-run posttransaction abnormal returns indistinguishable from zero. We further find that large portfolio company payouts to private equity on average have no relation to future portfolio company distress, suggesting that debt investors are not suffering systematic wealth losses either. However, we find some evidence of wealth transfers from both strategic buyers and debt investors in some special situations. Finally, we find that portf...
Statistical Quality Control Methods in Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology, Part II: Chart Use, Statistical Properties, and Research Issues

This is the second in a two-part series discussing and illustrating the application of statistical process control (SPC) in hospital epidemiology. The basic philosophical and theoretical foundations of statistical quality control and their relation to epidemiology are emphasized in order to expand the mutual understanding and cross-fertilization between these two disciplines. Part I provided an overview of the philosophy and general approach of SPC, illustrated common types of control charts, and provided references for further information or statistical formulae. Part II now discusses alternate possible SPC approaches, statistical properties of control charts, chart-design issues and optimal control limit widths, some common misunderstandings, and more advanced issues. The focus of both articles is mostly nonmathematical, emphasizing important concepts and practical examples rather than academic theory and exhaustive calculations.
Enhanced high harmonic generation in Xe, Kr and Ar using a capillary discharge

We demonstrate a significant extension of the harmonic cutoff in xenon, krypton and argon ions using a capillary discharge, up to 160 eV, 170 eV and 275 eV respectively.
Interpretation of intraoperative parathyroid hormone monitoring in patients with baseline parathyroid hormone levels of <100 pg/mL

Background Common guidelines for intraoperative parathyroid hormone (IOPTH) interpretation are based on clearly elevated baseline parathyroid hormone (PTH) values. We hypothesize that patients with low-baseline levels ( Methods We retrospectively reviewed the cases of 1151 patients with primary hyperparathyroidism who underwent parathyroidectomy with IOPTH monitoring. Of these, 141 patients had low-baseline values. Multiple comparisons were made between the low-baseline and high-baseline groups. Results Twenty-six percent of the low-baseline patients had MGD versus 15% of the high-baseline patients (P = .002). The PTH kinetics differed between groups after gland excision at both 5 and 10 minutes. Adherence solely to the “50% rule” during minimally invasive parathyroidectomy potentially would have missed 25% of patients with MGD in the low-baseline group versus 10% in the high-baseline group; 5.7% of the low-baseline patients had persistent or recurrent hypercalcemia versus 2.9% of the high-baseline patients. Conclusion MGD is significantly more prevalent among low-baseline patients, and PTH kinetics are somewhat different between groups. The current guidelines that are used for IOPTH monitoring may not be ideal for use in this low-baseline group and will likely need to be revised after further study of this group of patients.
Prospective study of type 2 diabetes mellitus and risk of primary open-angle glaucoma in women.

Purpose To study the relation between type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and incident primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) in women. Design Prospective cohort analysis. Participants Seventy-six thousand three hundred eighteen women enrolled in the Nurses' Health Study (NHS). Methods Women enrolled in the NHS from 1980 to 2000 were observed. Eligible participants were at least 40 years old, did not have POAG at baseline, and reported receiving eye examinations during follow-up. Potential confounders were assessed on biennial questionnaires, and a diagnosis of T2DM was confirmed on a validated supplemental questionnaire. During follow-up, 429 self-reported POAG cases confirmed by medical chart review were identified. Main Outcome Measures Multivariable rate ratios (RRs) of POAG and associated 95% confidence intervals (CIs) obtained from proportional hazards models. Results After controlling for age, race, hypertension, body mass index, physical activity, alcohol intake, smoking, and family history of glaucoma, T2DM was positively associated with POAG (RR = 1.82 [95% CI=1.23–2.70]). Nonetheless, the association did not strengthen with longer duration of diabetes: RR=2.24 (95% CI=1.31–3.84) for duration Conclusion Type 2 diabetes mellitus is associated with an increased risk of POAG in women.
Marital Quality of Black and White Adults Over the Life Course

This paper tests family development and life-course perspectives in explaining marital quality over the course of marriage for black and white adults. The sample of 1430 adults (1097 white, 333 black) in their first marriage was from a 1986 national survey. As expected, positive marital quality (satisfaction and interdependence) had significant curvilinear patterns across length of marriage but only satisfaction showed the characteristic U-shape with a dip in the middle years which is consistent with a family life-cycle explanation. Furthermore, family structure variables did not eliminate this pattern, although family financial factors reduced it to marginal significance. Negative marital quality (discord and spouse negative behavior) had significant negative linear patterns over the marital life course, which were unaffected by family life-cycle variables. All four patterns were similar for blacks and whites, except that blacks had a stronger negative linear association between negative marital quality ...
Basic Photovoltaic Theory

Electric power generation by means of photovoltaics (PVs) has seen an explosive growth worldwide over the past decade. This growth is driven in part by a global concern about climate change, the adoption of renewable portfolio standards, government rebates and tax incentives, and reduction in PV system cost. This article presents the basic theory on how a silicon-based PV cell converts sunlight into electricity. Silicon material and sunlight properties are reviewed with emphasis on the amount of energy that is needed to free valence electrons (i.e., bandgap) and energy content of sunlight throughout the solar spectrum. The need to add impurities to form n-type and p-type materials, for the purpose of separating the free electrons from the holes left behind, is clearly addressed. The electrical characteristics of a p–n junction solar cell are described in terms of drift and diffusion currents and the strength of the electric field that appears across the depletion region. Owing to their similarities, the equivalent circuit model of the cell when exposed to sunlight is derived from that of a p–n junction diode. The impact of changes in the numerous variables that appear in the circuit model, on the cell current–voltage (I–V) curve and power conversion efficiency, are reviewed, along with the building blocks that make up a solar PV module. Keywords: solar spectrum; semiconductor materials; doping; diode circuit model; cell efficiency
Measuring and Increasing Engagement in Substance Abuse Treatment Groups

Abstract Engaging group members is important in the treatment of alcohol and other drug (AOD) problems. Although there has been discussion about engagement in AOD treatment in the literature, there has not been a measure of engagement specifically for group work until recently. This article briefly describes the multidimensional Group Engagement Measure (GEM) and discusses the utility of the GEM for increasing engagement in AOD treatment groups. This paper provides group leaders with ideas for improving their practice, within a framework of evidence-based group work.
Acute Multifocal Osteomyelitis Following Acupuncture: A Case Report.

Osteomyelitis was not listed as a complication of acupuncture in a recent review of one million self-reported treatments1 and has not been identified in limited safety data on acupuncture from randomized trials2. The aims of this case report are to highlight a rarely recognized instigator of acute osteomyelitis and stress the importance of a thorough history, physical examination, and radiographic evaluation in patients presenting with signs and symptoms of osteomyelitis following acupuncture. The authors obtained the patient’s informed consent for publication of this case report. A fifteen-year-old previously healthy adolescent male basketball player presented with right shoulder pain and a fever of four days’ duration. During a basketball game three weeks prior to presentation, the patient sustained a right shoulder “strain” for which he did not seek medical treatment. Because of continued discomfort with activity, he underwent acupuncture five days prior to presentation to us; ten separate needles were inserted into the skin overlying both shoulders and upper extremities. According to the acupuncturist, meridians of Chinese acupuncture postulated to alleviate shoulder pain were chosen as locations for needle insertion, including five separate areas overlying the clavicle, acromion, and scapula on both sides. The treatment areas were prepared with alcohol-based cleaning wipes prior to the insertion of disposable 2-in stainless-steel needles. Each needle remained in the skin for approximately thirty minutes. On awakening the following morning, the patient felt subjectively febrile and noticed a “stinging” quality to the right shoulder pain. The pain increased progressively and was not relieved with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication. At initial presentation to us, the patient described sharp, nonradiating right shoulder pain, rated 8 of 10 and exacerbated erythrocytewith movement. There was also mild, nonspecific left shoulder pain. Examination was notable for a fever of 39.4°C and diffuse …
Discretionary Tax Accruals to Meet the Earnings Target

We investigate if firms discretionary tax accruals can capture managerial discretion over the potential tax increase in financial reporting to meet or beat earnings targets. We also investigate the incentives of firms that have NOL carry forwards. We consider the earnings management cases on the marginal performing groups as in Burgstahler and Dichev (1997). We propose a discretionary tax accrual as a useful metric in distinguishing the firms' incentive to increase taxable income. We find evidence regarding the trade-offs between tax benefits and non tax costs as suggested by other studies (Matsunaga et al. 1992, Dhaliwal et al. 1994, Erickson et al. 2004). Our results suggest that firms are willing to pay additional taxes. However, we find that firms don't manage taxable income to utilize loss carryforwards. Our findings suggest that we should also consider the management of taxable income in assessing earnings management to meet the earnings target. Our findings have implications for the methods in empirical earnings management research where both total accrual based approach and specific accrual based approach can be used whenever taxable income as well as book-only income is likely to be managed.
High-Fidelity Optical Microphone Manufactured in Laminates

We have built an optical MEMS microphone using processes commonly found in the packaging and printed circuit industry. Optical elements used to detect sound are manufactured using laminate processes and integrated onto printed circuit boards (PCB). Laminate MEMS (LMEMS) processing is an enabling technology that allows designers more freedom in designing MEMS and the packaging and printed circuit industry the capabilities of fabricating their own MEMS component. Using optics grade films and high-tolerance substrates, high-end electro optical components have been manufactured in the form of laminate waveguides, optical microphones and passive switches.
Adjunctive vagus nerve stimulation for treatment-resistant bipolar disorder: managing device failure or the end of battery life

The vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) device is used not only to treat refractory seizure disorders but also mood disorders; the latter indication received CE Mark approval in 2001 and Food and Drug Administration approval in 2005. Original estimates for the end of battery life (EOBL) were approximately 6–10 years. Many neuropsychiatric patients have or will soon face EOBL. A patient with severe, life-threatening, treatment-resistant bipolar disorder underwent 9 years of stable remission following 20 months of adjunctive VNS. The device ceased operation at EOBL. Because of logistical issues, re-initiation of VNS was delayed over several months. The patient relapsed with depression, mania and mixed states, and regained remission 17 months after device replacement. This case dictates prudence in managing stable patients in remission with VNS. If the device malfunctions, urgent surgical replacement is warranted with subsequent rapid titration to previous parameters as tolerated. Several months’ delay may trigger relapse and prove difficult to re-establish remission.
Photoperiodic induction of reproductive diapause in the predators Nabis americoferus and Nabis roseipennis (Heteroptera: Nabidae)

The predators Nabis americoferus (Carayon) and N. roseipennis Reuter are common in several agroecosystems and overwinter as adults. Studying females, we found that the critical photoperiod for induction of reproductive diapause at 24°C is between 13.5 and 14.0 h light per day for both species. To determine the stage most sensitive to diapause inducing photoperiods, pairs of cohorts were reared to various points in their development under a photoperiod of 15 h light per day (not diapause inducing) or a photoperiod of 11 h light per day (diapause inducing) and then reciprocally switched to the opposite photoperiod for the remainder of development. Fewer than 10% of the individuals entered diapause when switched from the not diapause inducing to the diapause inducing photoperiod at the beginning of the adult stage. In contrast, when individuals were moved from the not diapause inducing to the diapause inducing photoperiod at the beginning of the 5th stadium, 78.4% of the N. americoferus and 87.5% of the N. roseipennis entered reproductive diapause as adults. When either species was switched from the not diapause inducing to the diapause inducing photoperiod at the beginning of any earlier stadium, 100% of the cohort entered reproductive diapause as adults. Thus, the nymphal stage is the most sensitive to diapause inducing photoperiods. Reciprocal switches from the diapause inducing to the not diapause inducing photoperiod showed that the adult stage must continue to experience a short photophase for diapause to occur. Once the critical photoperiod is reached during late summer in the field, of course, individuals will experience diapause inducing photoperiods for the remainder of their development.
Classification of Parasomnias

Parasomnias, or undesirable events accompanying sleep, encompass a broad spectrum of behaviors and experiences. Classification of parasomnias has undergone a significant transformation in the International Classification of Sleep Disorders Third Edition. Underlying this new classification is the understanding that Wake, NREM sleep, and REM sleep are not mutually exclusive states. Recent advances in neuroscience support the State Dissociation paradigm which would allow for an unstable admixture of components of these states to coexist. Parasomnias are the clinical manifestation of this state instability. This article briefly reviews the characteristics, demographics, and pathophysiology of the core parasomnias and associated disorders, with emphasis on disorders of arousal and diagnosis and prognostic significance of REM sleep behavior disorder.
Effects of Certain Climatic Factors on the Toxicities of Several Organic Phosphorus Insecticides

The independent effects of wind, simulated rain, and temperature variations on the residual toxicities of several organic phosphorus pesticides were evaluated in laboratory tests. The boll weevil ( Anthonomus grandis Boh.) and the tumid spider mite ( Tetranychus tumidus Banks) were used as test animals. Temperature and humidity variations encountered under prevailing greenhouse conditions were important factors contributing to the loss of residual toxicity in these compounds. Phosdrin lost most of its residual toxicity to boll weevils and spider mites when exposed to temperatures ranging from 70° F. to 104° F., and relative humidities ranging from 40 to 86%. Guthion spray Was superior to endrin or dieldrin sprays when subjected to temperatures above 100° F. before release of boll weevils on the plants. Guthion dust was more effective than toxaphene or dieldrin dusts under prerelease windy conditions at relatively high temperatures. Simulated rain appreciably reduced the residual toxicities of Guthion, methyl parathion and malathion sprays.
Determination of total flavonoids by UV and visible spectrophotometry in health wine

Objective:To study the methods of determination of the total flavonoids in health wine.Methods:Rutin was utilized as reference substance,and the wavelength was 357 nm in ultraviolet spectrophotometry determination,whereas it was 500 nm in visible spectrophotometry method and aluminum nitrate was used as chromogenic agent.Results:There was no significant difference between the two results.Conclusion:The actional color in ultraviolet spectrophotometry is more stable than in visible spectrophotometry,and UV is faster and easier.
Introducing a Virtual Reality Experience in Anatomic Pathology Education.

Objectives: A proper examination of surgical specimens is fundamental in anatomic pathology (AP) education. However, the resources available to residents may not always be suitable for efficient skill acquisition. We propose a method to enhance AP education by introducing high-definition videos featuring methods for appropriate specimen handling, viewable on two-dimensional (2D) and stereoscopic three-dimensional (3D) platforms. Methods: A stereo camera system recorded the gross processing of commonly encountered specimens. Three edited videos, with instructional audio voiceovers, were experienced by nine junior residents in a crossover study to assess the effects of the exposure (2D vs 3D movie views) on self-reported physiologic symptoms. A questionnaire was used to analyze viewer acceptance. Results: All surveyed residents found the videos beneficial in preparation to examine a new specimen type. Viewer data suggest an improvement in specimen handling confidence and knowledge and enthusiasm toward 3D technology. None of the participants encountered significant motion sickness. Conclusions: Our novel method provides the foundation to create a robust teaching library. AP is inherently a visual discipline, and by building on the strengths of traditional teaching methods, our dynamic approach allows viewers to appreciate the procedural actions involved in specimen processing.
Spiders and Related Groups

The class Arachnida is second only to the Insecta in number of species and diversity. It is also among the more important groups of invertebrates occurring in caves with 9 of the 11 extant orders containing troglobites. The windscorpions (order Solifugae) do not occur in caves except as accidentals. The whipscorpions (order Uropygi) rarely occur as trogloxenes in tropical caves.
Integrated Approach to Algae Production for Biofuel Utilizing Robust Algal Species

Cost-effectiveness of algal biomass production for oil can be significantly improved by integrating the algal culturing with waste treatment such as commercial/agricultural wastewater treatment, carbon-dioxide/flue recovery, and production of valued by-products, such as feedstock for biogas, organic fertilizer, and proteinaceous feed for animals. This approach would require oleaginous algal strains that can out-compete a diverse array of native wild species and are least sensitive to environmental changes. Selection of algae species for biofuel robustness of species plays especially important role. A perspective of mass culturing of selectively isolated robust oleaginous algal species in wastewaters is provided here, and the challenges in growing high-end oleaginous algae in wastewater media are discussed.
Abstract A36: Novel therapeutic approaches for human malignant mesothelioma

Human malignant mesothelioma (MM) is an aggressive and highly lethal cancer that has been linked to asbestos and erionite exposure. MM causes about 3,200 deaths per year in the US and more than 100,000 deaths per year worldwide. We previously found that high-mobility group box-1 protein (HMGB1), a prototypic damage-associated molecular pattern (DAMP), plays a critical role in the early events of HM malignant transformation and MM development. More recently we showed that MM cells are “addicted” to HMGB1 that supports the malignant phenotype by promoting proliferation and invasiveness of MM cells. We demonstrated that MM growth is inhibited by targeting HMGB1 using HMGB1 neutralizing antibody or BoxA, a HMGB1 antagonist. Ethyl pyruvate (EP) is the ethyl ester of pyruvic acid, known to suppress oxygen radical formation and HMGB1 secretion. Here we show that EP impaired motility, survival and proliferation of MM cells in vitro. Both BoxA and EP inhibited the activity of the pro-inflammatory transcription factor NF-kappaB, as well as reduced HMGB1 serum levels and the growth of MM xenografts in SCID mice. Taken together, our results provide a preclinical proof-of-principle that inhibition of HMGB1 activity using either HMGB1 antibody, BoxA or EP offers novel therapeutic approaches for MM treatment. Citation Format: Haining Yang, Sandro Jube, Michele Carbone. Novel therapeutic approaches for human malignant mesothelioma. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference: Tumor Immunology and Immunotherapy: A New Chapter; December 1-4, 2014; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Immunol Res 2015;3(10 Suppl):Abstract nr A36.
Abstract 448: The role of the Nanog transcription factor in tumor immune escape

The emergence of cancer stem cells and escape from immune surveillance play major roles in the progression of many cancer types. We recently established a link between these two “hallmarks” of cancer by demonstrating that they are both driven by overexpression of Nanog, a pivotal transcription factor in the self-renewal of pluripotent stem cells. In particular, we found that tumor cells acquire Nanog expression in the course of immune selection, and that Nanog confers a stem-like and immune-resistant phenotype to these cells. However, the way in which Nanog causes this to occur remains largely unknown. We reasoned that Nanog-driven immune escape may be in part due to the effect of this transcription factor on the tumor microenvironment. Therefore, here we investigated the relationship between Nanog, immune selection, and the properties of the tumor microenvironment. We found that mice bearing tumor cells that underwent immune selection, compared to those bearing parental tumor cells (without immune selection), had markedly elevated levels of the cytokine IL-6 as well as of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) in the tumor microenvironment; both IL-6 and MDSCs have been well-documented to promote cancer immune escape. We further investigated the role of Nanog in setting up this microenvironment. To this end, we have devised an in vivo system that enables us to examine the relationship between Nanog expression in the tumor microenvironment and tumor growth in real-time. Taken together, we infer from these data that not only is Nanog induction a consequence of immune selection, but Nanog also plays an essential role in tumor immune escape. In fact, we found in multiple mouse and human tumor models that Nanog is necessary and sufficient for immune escape. Additionally, these results suggest that Nanog mediates immune escape by converting the tumor microenvironment into an immune-inhibitory site, through the induction of IL-6 and MDSCs. These studies authenticate the role of Nanog in cancer progression as a central instigator of tumor immune escape, and demonstrate its potential both as an important diagnostic/prognostic index and as a therapeutic target. Citation Format: Emily Robitschek, Chih-Ping Mao, Shiwen Peng, Chien-Fu Hung, TC Wu. The role of the Nanog transcription factor in tumor immune escape. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 106th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2015 Apr 18-22; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2015;75(15 Suppl):Abstract nr 448. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2015-448
The Constitutional Sovereignty of Member States and European Constraints: The Difficult Path to Political Integration

The issue of the constitutional sovereignty of Member States emerged right from the earliest stages of the construction of the European Community and still remains the “Gordian Knot” of the European integration process, especially at the present time characterized by the effects of the economic crisis that has put to the test the very existence of the European Union.
An Efficient Computational Technique for Light Water Reactor Core Dynamics

By combining a modified version of the so-called ''adiabatic'' method for reactor dynamic calculations with a simplified flow redistribution scheme, an efficient method for predicting three-dimensional core behavior has been developed for pressurized water reactor transients. Both the simplified core reactivity and the flow redistribution calculations are shown to yield close approximations of the results obtained by more rigorous approaches. A modification of this technique is shown to be applicable to some boiling water reactor transients. The procedure is found to be substantially more rapid than those most commonly used for predicting three-dimensional light water reactor core behavior during transients in which thermal-hydraulic feedback is significant.
Suites of Scalings

The scales of measure for quantifying features of cases used in original recording of the data must obviously have some interpretive appeal; otherwise, they would not be used for recording the data in the beginning. In any case, the data as recorded on the original scales provide the starting point for rescaling to gain some comparative interpretive advantage. We pursue a structural scaling sequence of successive statistical simplification. In so doing, we focus on variability because variability consists of information and noise with (white) noise being variability that is lacking in pattern (independently random). A fairly crude gauge of variability is range as difference between maximum and minimum. Maximum and minimum are given in the default summary of a data frame provided by R.
State Estimation for Unobservable Distribution Systems via Deep Neural Networks

The problem of state estimation for unobservable three-phase unbalanced distribution systems is considered. A Bayesian approach is proposed that combines Bayesian inference with deep neural networks to achieve the minimum mean squared error estimation of network states for real-time applications. The proposed technique learns probability distributions of net injection from smart meter data and generates samples for training a deep neural network. Structural characteristics of the deep neural networks are investigated. Results illustrate the benefits of deep learning and robustness against distribution errors and bad data. Comparing with the pseudo measurement techniques, direct Bayesian state estimation with deep neural networks significantly outperforms existing pseudo measurement techniques, including those using neural-network based pseudo measurement approaches.
An Advanced EM-Plasma Simulator Based on the DGTD Algorithm With Dynamic Adaptation and Multirate Time Integration Techniques

In a numerical simulation of the interactions between high-intensity electromagnetic (EM) waves and plasma fluids, a good numerical resolution is required for all the physical quantities of interest, especially the plasma density distribution around the edge of the plasma bulk. Since the plasma formation and evolution is a dynamic process, it is difficult to predetermine the appropriate resolution at a given location. In this paper, we describe a discontinuous Galerkin time-domain (DGTD) based dynamic adaptation algorithm, which is able to adjust either the local mesh size or the local polynomial order in real time of a simulation to provide a sufficient numerical resolution of the physics while keeping the total computational cost low. To alleviate the constraint of the time step size of an explicit time integrator, a multirate time integration method is employed to advance the physics in time, which permits the application of different time step sizes in elements with different sizes or polynomial orders. With these techniques, the DGTD simulation of EM–plasma interactions can achieve a good accuracy and high efficiency.
Enhancer Rna's In Brain Function and Disease

Abstract Distal enhancer elements in DNA enable higher-order chromatin interactions that regulate gene expression programs critical for cellular development, phenotype, and function. The vast majority of genetic variants linked to human health and disease by genome-wide association studies are located in non-coding regions of the genome, with putative enhancers containing more disease-linked single-nucleotide polymorphisms than all other genetic loci combined. This is especially relevant to intellectual and neuropsychiatric disorders, as sequence variations in enhancer regions have been linked to depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and autism spectrum disorders. In neuronal systems, enhancer elements are subject to widespread, bidirectional transcription that yields non-coding enhancer RNA (eRNA). However, the precise function of eRNAs has remained controversial, with different models proposing unique regulatory functions. This presentation will examine the biogenesis, localization, and function of eRNAs arising from enhancers that regulate activity-responsive immediate early genes known to be involved in cognitive functions. We show that eRNA expression from these loci are dynamically modulated by neuronal activity in an RNA PolII-dependent manner, resulting in non-polyadenylated transcripts with exclusive localization in the cell nucleus. Enhancer RNA knockdown results in impaired mRNA expression from linked genes, whereas eRNA upregulation or targeting with CRISPR-dCas9 tools results in increased expression of linked genes. Finally, we show that eRNAs interact with key epigenetic modifiers and are correlated with specific chromatin states. Together, these results suggest that RNAs transcribed from neuronal enhancers are important contributors to epigenetic landscapes and gene regulatory mechanisms. This growing link between enhancer activity and brain function strongly highlights the need to better understand the specific interactions that regulate enhancer function at the molecular level, and also suggests that enhancers could be attractive targets for a new generation of disease therapeutics.
Journalists and mental health: The psychological toll of covering everyday trauma:

Journalists are often first responders and eyewitnesses to violent news events. Trauma reporting can take its toll, resulting in mental health effects. Addressing the solution requires understandin...
Post-Transplant Root System Expansion in Juniperus chinensis L. as Influenced by Production System Mechanical Root Disruption and Soil Type

Juniperus chinensis (L.) ‘Sea Green’ from 3.8 1 (#.1) containers (CG) and comparably sized field grown plants balled and burlapped (B&B) were planted in clay and loam soil in mid-June. Prior to tra...
Protectionism, Intellectual Property, and Consumer Protection: Was the Uruguay Round Good for Consumers?

Critics of the Uruguay Round of the GATT have contended that its provisions threaten the ability of individual nations to enact and keep in place strong consumer protection measures. Agreements regarding non-discriminatory treatment and protection of intellectual property, critics believe, undermine important consumer policies designed to promote consumer health, safety, and information. This paper reviews the arguments and evidence regarding the potential of the Uruguay Round agreements to threaten consumer protection. Although the potential for such threats does exist, the record to date does not suggest any significant retreat from consumer protection due to free trade agreements.
Proximal Humerus Fracture-Dislocation with Laceration of the Axillary Artery: A Case Report.

Background Proximal humerus fractures account for approximately 4-6% of all fractures. While the majority of these fractures are treated non-operatively, the amount of fracture displacement, concomitant injuries, and patient factors often result in the need for surgical stabilization. Although concomitant neurovascular injury in the setting of low-energy trauma is rare, injury to the surrounding neurovascular structures have previously been reported. Methods We report a case of a 79-year-old male who sustained a low energy fall resulting in a two-part fracture dislocation of the proximal humerus with an associated brachial plexopathy and axillary artery laceration. The patient underwent emergent open reduction internal fixation of his fracture in addition to an axillary-brachial artery bypass using a reverse-saphenous vein graft. The current article reports the presentation, management and prognosis of this rare injury. Results At 6 months, the patient demonstrated limited active shoulder abduction with no observed motor function at this elbow, wrist or hand. Radiographic follow up demonstrated a reduced glenohumeral joint with evidence avascular necrosis of the humeral head. Conclusion Fracture-dislocations of the proximal humerus may be associated with significant neurovascular injury in the setting of low energy trauma. Despite early treatment, the prognosis of patients with this constellation of injuries is guarded.
Dietary Fat and Sugar Differentially Affect β-Adrenergic Stimulation of Cardiac ERK and AKT Pathways in C57BL/6 Male Mice Subjected to High-Calorie Feeding.

BACKGROUND High dietary fat and sugar promote cardiac hypertrophy independently from an increase in blood pressure. The respective contribution that each macronutrient exerts on cardiac growth signaling pathways remains unclear. OBJECTIVE The goal of this study was to investigate the mechanisms by which high amounts of dietary fat and sugar affect cardiac growth regulatory pathways. METHODS Male C57BL/6 mice (9 wk old; n = 20/group) were fed a standard rodent diet (STD; kcal% protein-fat-carbohydrate, 29-17-54), a high-fat diet (HFD; 20-60-20), a high-fat and high-sugar Western diet (WD; 20-45-35), a high-sugar diet with mixed carbohydrates (HCD; 20-10-70), or a high-sucrose diet (HSD; 20-10-70). Body composition was assessed weekly by EchoMRI. Whole-body glucose utilization was assessed with an intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test. After 6 wk on diets, mice were treated with saline or 20 mg/kg isoproterenol (ISO), and the activity of cardiac growth regulatory pathways was analyzed by immunoblotting. Data were analyzed by ANOVA with data from the STD group included for references only. RESULTS Compared with HCD and HSD, WD and HFD increased body fat mass 2.7- to 3.8-fold (P 1.5-fold (P 47%; P 34%; P 64%; P < 0.05 for WD, HCD, and HSD). CONCLUSIONS Dietary fat and sugar affect cardiac growth signaling pathways in C57BL/6 mice through distinct and additive mechanisms. The findings may provide new insights into the role of overnutrition in pathological cardiac remodeling.
A RARE CASE OF LEFT CIRCUMFLEX TO CORONARY SINUS FISTULA PRESENTING WITH ANGINA

A fistula originating from the Left circumflex artery (LCx) to Coronary sinus (CS) is very rare. Current literature and clinical experience with this rare anomaly is limited to case reports or short series involving a few patients. A 35 year old female with past medical history of sick sinus
A vegetative index of stand productivity based on tree inventory for predicting oak site index in the Central Hardwood Region

Models for prediction of site index (SI) typically include only abiotic causal variables (e.g., soil) and lack biotic response variables (e.g., vegetation), which could exhibit greater sensitivity ...
Robot-Assisted Partial Nephrectomy

In the United States, the annual incidence of renal cancers is approximately 61,560, and 14,080 die of the disease. The lifetime probability of developing invasive renal cancer is 2% in males and 1.2% in females [1]. Although recent advances in systemic and targeted immunotherapies have improved long-term survival in patients, surgical extirpation still offers the best chance for cure in localized disease. Other treatment approaches such as active surveillance, radiofrequency ablation, and cryotherapy may be appropriate for patients who are unfit for surgery or who have competing comorbidities. Surgical options for renal tumors include partial and radical nephrectomy. Nephron-sparing surgery (NSS), as allowed by the tumor characteristics and patient comorbidities, is the preferred approach for small renal masses. NSS may delay the onset of chronic kidney disease, associated cardiovascular events, and mortality, while providing equivalent oncologic results [2, 3]. Partial nephrectomy has become the standard of care for T1 tumors (≤7 cm in size).
Making America Great Again? National Nostalgia's Effect on Outgroup Perceptions.

Nostalgia is a fond longing for the past that has been shown to increase feelings of meaning, social connectedness, and self-continuity. Although nostalgia for personal memories provides intra- and interpersonal benefits, there may be negative consequences of group-based nostalgia on the perception and acceptance of others. The presented research examined national nostalgia (a form of collective nostalgia), and its effects on group identification and political attitudes in the United States. In a sample of US voters (N = 252), tendencies to feel personal and national nostalgia are associated with markedly different emotional and attitudinal profiles. Higher levels of national nostalgia predicted both positive attitudes towards President Trump and racial prejudice, though there was no evidence of such relationships with personal nostalgia. National nostalgia most strongly predicted positive attitudes toward president Trump among those high in racial prejudice. Furthermore, nostalgia’s positive relationship with racial prejudice was partially mediated by perceived outgroup threat. Results from this study will help us better understand how the experience of national nostalgia can influence attitudes and motivate political behavior.