cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Regulation of Human Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor mRNA Stability in Hypoxia by Heterogeneous Nuclear Ribonucleoprotein L

A 126-base region of human vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) 3′-untranslated region, which we identified as the hypoxia stability region, forms seven hypoxia-inducible RNA-protein complexes with apparent molecular masses ranging from 40 to 90 kDa in RNA-UV-cross-linking assays. In this study, we show that proteins that form the 60-kDa RNA-protein complex with the hypoxia stability region were present in both cytoplasmic and nuclear compartments. We purified the protein associated in the 60-kDa complex and identified it as heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein L (hnRNP L) by protein sequencing. Removal of hnRNP L by immunoprecipitation specifically abolished formation of the 60-kDa complex. Synthetic deoxyribonucleotide competition studies defined the RNA-binding site of hnRNP L as a 21-base-long sequence, 5′-CACCCACCCACAUACAUACAU-3′. Immunoprecipitation of hnRNP L followed by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction showed that hnRNP L specifically interacts with VEGF mRNA in hypoxic cells in vivo. Furthermore, when M21 cells transfected with antisense oligodeoxyribonucleotide to the hnRNP L RNA-binding site, the VEGF mRNA half-life was significantly reduced under hypoxic conditions. Thus, we propose that specific association of hnRNP L with VEGF mRNA under hypoxia may play an important role in hypoxia-induced post-transcriptional regulation of VEGF mRNA expression.
Health-Related Quality of Life in Colon and Rectal Disease

Health-related quality of life is increasingly recognized as an important factor in evaluating the impact of a disease on an individual or assessing the risks and benefits of a treatment. Investigators have developed numerous instruments that aim to assess global quality of life and disease-specific quality of life. Colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, and Hirschsprung's disease are 3 colorectal conditions that have been the subject of much quality of life-related investigation. In addition to symptomatology, patients' social support structures, expectations, and level of communication with caregivers are all factors that impact an individual's perceived quality of life in colorectal disease.
OleDetection Forensics and Anti-forensics of Steganography in OLE2-Formatted Documents

New and improved data hiding techniques pose a problem for forensic analysts investigating computer crime. Computer criminals are able to hide information using stego-channels available in commonly used document formats, thereby hindering an investigator from acquiring possibly important evidence. In this paper, we focus on detecting the use of stego-channels in the unused or dead space regions in the Object Linking and Embedding 2 (OLE2) specification used primarily by Microsoft’s Office. The OleDetection algorithm ‎[19] presented in this paper is focused on detecting the use of these stego-channels using a three-step process comprising the detection of dead regions in a document, the extraction of binary data and the generation of appropriate statistics using kurtosis and byte-frequency distribution, and the comparison of the calculated statistics with threshold values, which determines whether or not the document contains hidden data. This algorithm extends the work done by the StegOle algorithm ‎[3]. Our experimental results show that the OleDetection algorithm can correctly identify 99.97 percent of documents with previous stego-channel techniques with a false positive rate of only 0.65 percent. In addition, we present an anti-forensic technique wherein OLE2 documents can be modified to hide data with greater detection avoidance characteristics ‎[19]; thus reducing the accuracy of the current OleDetection implementation.
Fixit: An Architecture to Support Recognition-Primed Decision Making in Complex System Fault Management Activities:

This research explores the use of the theory of recognition primed decision making and the technology of case-based reasoning to store fault management experience and make it available to operators confronting similar anomalous situations. Specifically, this project uses case-based reasoning technology to construct a knowledge base of actual fault management experience. This knowledge base is organized so as to enable operators to rapidly recognize a fault and retrieve information about previous or similar fault occurrences. The Fault Information Extraction and Investigation Tool (FIXIT), a case-based architecture for computationally encoding fault management experience, is described. FIXIT was implemented in proof-of-concept form for satellite ground controllers. An empirical study with NASA controllers showed that fault management using FIXIT was consistently superior to fault detection and response using existing fault management resources of NASA satellite ground control centers.
Integrating movement science and physical therapy.

To the Editor: In their introduction to the special series of articles on movement science, Winstein and Knecht1 made reference to a citation-analysis study that Gibson and I published in 1986.2 Winstein and Knecht noted that the Journal of Motor Behavior , the Journal of Human Movement Studies, Human Learning , and the Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology were not among the journals listed in our article as cited 10 or more times. They found it disturbing that such journals were not among those indicated by the citation analysis to be “most relevant” to physical therapy. They suggested that an increased awareness of movement science by the physical therapy community will result in a greater integration of “these highly relevant literatures into our practices, our research, our libraries, and our education programs.”1 (p762) I agree with Winstein and Knecht that the movement science literature is highly relevant to the physical therapy community.… [ ARTICLE][1] [ ARTICLE][2] [1]: /lookup/volpage/70/759?iss=12 [2]: /lookup/volpage/66/540?iss=4
Nitrogen Availability and TOR Regulate the Snf1 Protein Kinase in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

In the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the Snf1 protein kinase of the Snf1/AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) family regulates a wide range of responses to stress caused by glucose deprivation. The stress signal is relayed via upregulation of Snf1, which depends on phosphorylation of its activation loop Thr210 residue by upstream kinases. Although Snf1 is also required for coping with various stresses unrelated to glucose deprivation, some evidence suggests a role for low-level basal activity of unphosphorylated Snf1, rather than a specific signaling function. We previously found that Snf1 is required for diploid pseudohyphal differentiation, a developmental response to nitrogen limitation. Here, we present evidence that Snf1 is directly involved in nitrogen signaling. First, genetic analyses suggest that pseudohyphal differentiation depends on the stimulatory phosphorylation of Snf1 at Thr210. Second, immunochemical data indicate that nitrogen limitation improves Thr210 phosphorylation. Analyses of pseudohyphal differentiation in cells with catalytically inactive and hyperactive Snf1 support the role of Snf1 activity. Finally, we show that Snf1 is negatively regulated by the rapamycin-sensitive TOR kinase which plays essential roles in signaling nitrogen and amino acid availability. This and other evidence implicate Snf1 in the integration of signals regarding nitrogen and carbon stress. TOR and Snf1/AMPK are highly conserved in evolution, and their novel functional interaction in yeast suggests similar mechanisms in other eukaryotes.
Glucocorticoids antagonize tumor necrosis factor-α-stimulated lipolysis and resistance to the antilipolytic effect of insulin in human adipocytes

High concentrations of TNF within obese adipose tissue increase basal lipolysis and antagonize insulin signaling. Adipocytes of the obese are also exposed to elevated levels of glucocorticoids (GCs...
Effects of Cultivation and Alternative Vineyard Management Practices on Soil Carbon Storage in Diverse Mediterranean Landscapes: A Review of the Literature

Managing carbon storage at the landscape level through emission reduction and carbon sequestration is emerging as a viable local response to atmospheric carbon loading from anthropogenic activities. The conversion of uncultivated land uses and land covers (LULCs) to arable or perennial cropping systems is widely recognized as resulting in significant decomposition of soil organic carbon (SOC). Minimizing conversion and advocating alternative management of these cultivated land uses have been identified as having the potential to minimize this loss and potentially sequester atmospheric carbon. However, effective landscape management requires a more rigorous understanding to inform local decision-making. This review of published studies within diverse Mediterranean landscapes found that cultivated areas contained roughly half of the SOC of uncultivated LULCs, with vineyards often containing the lowest observed SOC levels in a landscape. Mitigation through alternative management can result in higher SOC leve...
Coherent potential approximation for the absorption spectra of a two-dimensional Frenkel exciton system with Gaussian diagonal disorder

We investigate the optical absorption and the density of states of a Frenkel exciton system on a square lattice with nearest-neighbor interactions and a Gaussian distribution of transition frequencies (i.e. Gaussian diagonal disorder). Results are presented for the absorption and the density of states of direct and indirect edge systems for a range of variances. There is reasonable agreement with the corresponding finite array calculations of Schreiber and Toyozawa. The existence of an Urbach tail is also investigated.
The Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer's Disease (CERAD): Part II. Standardization of the neuropathologic assessment of Alzheimer's disease

The Neuropathology Task Force of the Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer's Disease (CERAD) has developed a practical and standardized neuropathology protocol for the postmortem assessment of dementia and control subjects. The protocol provides neuropathologic definitions of such terms as "definite Alzheimer's disease" (AD), "probable AD," "possible AD," and "normal brain" to indicate levels of diagnostic certainty, reduce subjective interpretation, and assure common language. To pretest the protocol, neuropathologists from 15 participating centers entered information on autopsy brains from 142 demented patients clinically diagnosed as probable AD and on eight nondemented patients. Eighty-four percent of the dementia cases fulfilled CERAD neuropathologic criteria for definite AD. As increasingly large numbers of prospectively studied dementia and control subjects are autopsied, the CERAD neuropathology protocol will help to refine diagnostic criteria, assess overlapping pathology, and lead to a better understanding of early subclinical changes of AD and normal aging.
Social determinants of reproductive failure in male common marmosets housed with their natal family

Postpubertal male common marmosets, Callithrix jacchus, engage in little or no sexual behaviour while living with their natal families. The social mechanisms underlying this phenomenon have not been identified but have been assumed to include reproductive suppression by dominant males and/or avoidance of mating with closely related females. We evaluated these two possible components of male reproductive failure. Seven postpubertal males and their fathers underwent a series of 45-min sex tests, in which the son, the father, or the son and father together were allowed to interact freely with the mother/mate or with an unfamiliar, unrelated adult female. We measured testosterone, luteinizing hormone and cortisol concentrations in blood samples collected from males immediately following each test, and in basal blood samples collected on three different occasions. Sons, but not fathers, engaged in very low rates of sexual behaviour when tested with the mother/mate. When tested with unrelated females, however, sons engaged in significantly more sexual behaviour than they had when tested with their mothers and showed no differences from their fathers. When sons and fathers were tested together, both males performed significantly less sexual behaviour than when tested alone with a female; however, they showed no overt competition for females and engaged in little agonism. Hormone levels did not differ significantly between fathers and sons. These results indicate that avoidance of mating with familiar females and possibly father‐son competition, but not specific, rank-related suppression, contribute to reproductive failure among postpubertal male marmosets living with their natal family. © 1999 The Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour
Should we build Gnutella on a structured overlay

There has been much interest in both unstructured and structured overlays recently. Unstructured overlays, like Gnutella, build a random graph and use flooding or random walks on the graph to discover data stored by overlay nodes. Structured overlays assign keys to data items and build a graph that maps each key to a specific node. The structure of the graph enables efficient discovery of data items given their keys but it does not support complex queries.Should we build Gnutella on a structured overlay? We believe the answer is yes. We replaced the random graph in Gnutella by a structured overlay while retaining the content placement and discovery mechanisms of unstructured overlays to support complex queries. Our preliminary results indicate that we can use structure to improve the performance of floods and rondom walks. They also indicate that structure can be used to reduce maintenance overhead, which is surprising because it is commonly believed that unstructured overlays have lower maintenance overhead than structured overlays.
Language and social knowledge

In this piece, I argue that a heightened attention to language in Reed’s (2011) interpretive epistemic mode will help further theorizing of the relationship between meaning and the social, and henc...
Structure-function evolution of the Transforming acidic coiled coil genes revealed by analysis of phylogenetically diverse organisms

Examination of ancient gene families can provide an insight into how the evolution of gene structure can relate to function. Functional homologs of the evolutionarily conserved transforming acidic coiled coil (TACC) gene family are present in organisms from yeast to man. However, correlations between functional interactions and the evolution of these proteins have yet to be determined. We have performed an extensive database analysis to determine the genomic and cDNA sequences of the TACCs from phylogenetically diverse organisms. This analysis has determined the phylogenetic relationship of the TACC proteins to other coiled coil proteins, the resolution of the placement of the rabbit TACC4 as the orthologue of human TACC3, and RHAMM as a distinct family of coiled coil proteins. We have also extended the analysis of the TACCs to the interaction databases of C. elegans and D. melanogaster to identify potentially novel TACC interactions. The validity of this modeling was confirmed independently by the demonstration of direct binding of human TACC2 to the nuclear hormone receptor RXRβ. The data so far suggest that the ancestral TACC protein played a role in centrosomal/mitotic spindle dynamics. TACC proteins were then recruited to complexes involved in protein translation, RNA processing and transcription by interactions with specific bridging proteins. However, during evolution, the TACC proteins have now acquired the ability to directly interact with components of these complexes (such as the LSm proteins, nuclear hormone receptors, GAS41, and transcription factors). This suggests that the function of the TACC proteins may have evolved from performing assembly or coordination functions in the centrosome to include a more intimate role in the functional evolution of chromatin remodeling, transcriptional and posttranscriptional complexes in the cell.
Biomimetic synthesis of β-TiO2 inside a viral capsid

The Cowpea chlorotic mottle virus (CCMV) was used as a size-constrained reaction vessel for the synthesis of Ti(IV) oxyhydroxide and TiO2.
Biomimicry: A Path to Sustainable Innovation

Introduction In his 1998 article, “Design for a Sustainable World,” Victor Margolin argues that our ecological plight is beckoning designers to broaden their purpose beyond shaping commodities for clients.1 Designers are poised to become agents of change that guide a sustainability transition. To do so, they must proactively mold the future profile of their profession by strategically adopting new forms of practice.2 Biomimicry is an emerging paradigm that can help launch designers into their new role as sustainability interventionists. However, biomimicry does not necessarily render sustainable outcomes. To increase the likelihood of sustainable outcomes, practitioners must consider the form, process, and ecosystem levels of biomimetic design. The purpose of this paper is to introduce scholars, students, and professionals in all fields of design to biomimicry and to its potential to yield sustainable outcomes when practiced in a deep, thoughtful way. The design community is an important leverage point for fueling dialogue about biomimicry because designers work “at the nexus of values, attitudes, needs, and actions” and, therefore, are uniquely positioned to act as transdisciplinary integrators and facilitators.3
Effect of shell coating technique on carrier collection properties of core/shell nanostructures

The core/shell nanowire (nanorod) arrays are promising candidates of being building blocks in many nanoscale device applications such as solar cells and photodetectors. Fast transportation of charge carriers, which requires high quality interface of core and shell materials, is crucial in this kind of applications. In this study, we performed a theoretical and experimental investigation on different physical vapor deposition (PVD) techniques to discover the most efficient deposition technique for a conformal shell coating around nanowires. We conducted Monte Carlo (MC) simulations and fabricated indium sulfide (In2S3) nanorods/silver (Ag) core/shell devices for photocurrent measurements. Glancing angle deposition (GLAD) technique was used to grow In2S3 nanorods. Our MC simulation results show that wider angular distribution of atomic flux (e.g. sputtering at high working gas pressures) can provide a conformal shell around nanowire arrays compared to a directional incident flux. The core/shell devices with Ag shell deposited by sputtering at a relatively high working gas pressure (3.4*10−2 mbar) show the highest photocurrent compared to other devices that involved more directional incident flux types of Ag sputter deposition. The shortened transit times calculated from photocurrent profiles can also indicate a conformal shell obtained with high pressure sputtering. On the other hand, our MC simulation results reveal that a small angle (∼30°) of incoming flux w.r.t. the substrate surface normal might be required for PVD techniques with a highly directional incoming flux (e.g. thermal or e-beam evaporation) for a sufficient conformal shell. Overall, we demonstrate that already well-known and well-established industrial PVD techniques can be utilized simply with small modifications in order to fabricate high quality core/shell structures for high efficiency, low-cost photovoltaic and photoconductive devices.
Toward a Genealogy of the U.S. Colonial Present

Rather than simply advocating a comparative approach that centers colonialism, this essay (and the collection as a whole) argues that analyzing U.S. colonialism demands understanding U.S. empire and the imperial nation-state as itself a comparative project and mode of power. Always already shaped by fluctuating interimperial rivalries and counterclaims against the peoples it subsumes, U.S. colonialism has been neither monolithic nor static. This essay argues that it is precisely the complex reciprocities, seemingly opaque disjunctures, and tense entanglements evident in the diversity of U.S. colonial pasts and presents that reveal the epistemological antagonisms and affinities that offer new insights for anticolonial struggle and new possibilities for critical inquiry.
Identification and Characterization of a Novel Broad-Spectrum Virus Entry Inhibitor

ABSTRACT Virus entry into cells is a multistep process that often requires the subversion of subcellular machineries. A more complete understanding of these steps is necessary to develop new antiviral strategies. While studying the potential role of the actin network and one of its master regulators, the small GTPase Cdc42, during Junin virus (JUNV) entry, we serendipitously uncovered the small molecule ZCL278, reported to inhibit Cdc42 function as an entry inhibitor for JUNV and for vesicular stomatitis virus, lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus, and dengue virus but not for the nonenveloped poliovirus. Although ZCL278 did not interfere with JUNV attachment to the cell surface or virus particle internalization into host cells, it prevented the release of JUNV ribonucleoprotein cores into the cytosol and decreased pH-mediated viral fusion with host membranes. We also identified SVG-A astroglial cell-derived cells to be highly permissive for JUNV infection and generated new cell lines expressing fluorescently tagged Rab5c or Rab7a or lacking Cdc42 using clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)-caspase 9 (Cas9) gene-editing strategies. Aided by these tools, we uncovered that perturbations in the actin cytoskeleton or Cdc42 activity minimally affect JUNV entry, suggesting that the inhibitory effect of ZCL278 is not mediated by ZCL278 interfering with the activity of Cdc42. Instead, ZCL278 appears to redistribute viral particles from endosomal to lysosomal compartments. ZCL278 also inhibited JUNV replication in a mouse model, and no toxicity was detected. Together, our data suggest the unexpected antiviral activity of ZCL278 and highlight its potential for use in the development of valuable new tools to study the intracellular trafficking of pathogens. IMPORTANCE The Junin virus is responsible for outbreaks of Argentine hemorrhagic fever in South America, where 5 million people are at risk. Limited options are currently available to treat infections by Junin virus or other viruses of the Arenaviridae, making the identification of additional tools, including small-molecule inhibitors, of great importance. How Junin virus enters cells is not yet fully understood. Here we describe new cell culture models in which the cells are susceptible to Junin virus infection and to which we applied CRISPR-Cas9 genome engineering strategies to help characterize early steps during virus entry. We also uncovered ZCL278 to be a new antiviral small molecule that potently inhibits the cellular entry of the Junin virus and other enveloped viruses. Moreover, we show that ZCL278 also functions in vivo, thereby preventing Junin virus replication in a mouse model, opening the possibility for the discovery of ZCL278 derivatives of therapeutic potential.
A Colletotrichum graminicola mutant deficient in the establishment of biotrophy reveals early transcriptional events in the maize anthracnose disease interaction

Colletotrichum graminicola is a hemibiotrophic fungal pathogen that causes maize anthracnose disease. It progresses through three recognizable phases of pathogenic development in planta: melanized appressoria on the host surface prior to penetration; biotrophy, characterized by intracellular colonization of living host cells; and necrotrophy, characterized by host cell death and symptom development. A “Mixed Effects” Generalized Linear Model (GLM) was developed and applied to an existing Illumina transcriptome dataset, substantially increasing the statistical power of the analysis of C. graminicola gene expression during infection and colonization. Additionally, the in planta transcriptome of the wild-type was compared with that of a mutant strain impaired in the establishment of biotrophy, allowing detailed dissection of events occurring specifically during penetration, and during early versus late biotrophy. More than 2000 fungal genes were differentially transcribed during appressorial maturation, penetration, and colonization. Secreted proteins, secondary metabolism genes, and membrane receptors were over-represented among the differentially expressed genes, suggesting that the fungus engages in an intimate and dynamic conversation with the host, beginning prior to penetration. This communication process probably involves reception of plant signals triggering subsequent developmental progress in the fungus, as well as production of signals that induce responses in the host. Later phases of biotrophy were more similar to necrotrophy, with increased production of secreted proteases, inducers of plant cell death, hydrolases, and membrane bound transporters for the uptake and egress of potential toxins, signals, and nutrients. This approach revealed, in unprecedented detail, fungal genes specifically expressed during critical phases of host penetration and biotrophic establishment. Many encoded secreted proteins, secondary metabolism enzymes, and receptors that may play roles in host-pathogen communication necessary to promote susceptibility, and thus may provide targets for chemical or biological controls to manage this important disease. The differentially expressed genes could be used as ‘landmarks’ to more accurately identify developmental progress in compatible versus incompatible interactions involving genetic variants of both host and pathogen.
Uncertainty Analysis in Wind Resource Assessment and Wind Energy Production Estimation

This paper presents a mathematical approach to properly account for uncertainty in wind resource assessment and wind energy production estimation. The evaluation of a wind resource and the subsequent estimation of the annual energy production (AEP) is a highly uncertain process. Uncertainty arises at all points in the process, from measuring the wind speed to the uncertainty in a power curve. A proper assessment of uncertainty is critical for judging the feasibility and risk of a potential wind energy development. Many current methods for assessing uncertainty either oversimplify the process or make faulty assumptions, leading to erroneous estimates of uncertainty. The approach in this paper yields a more accurate and objective accounting of uncertainty, and therefore better decision making when assessing a potential wind energy site. Three major aspects of site assessment uncertainty are presented here. First, a method is presented for combining uncertainty that arises in assessing the wind resource. Second, uncertainty in wind turbine power output and energy production is characterized. Third, a method for estimating the overall AEP uncertainty when using a Weibull distribution is presented. While it is commonly assumed that the uncertainty in the wind resource should be scaled by a factor between two and three to yield the uncertainty in the AEP, this work demonstrates that this assumption is an oversimplification, and also presents a closed form solution for the sensitivity factors of the Weibull parameters.
Effects of the Boll Weevil and Bollworm on Cotton Quality

Cotton-quality tests were conducted on lint and seed samples collected from a series of insecticide experimental treatments. Despite considerable damage to bolls by the boll weevil, Anthonomus grandis Boheman, and the bollworm, Heliothis zea (Boddie), cotton quality was not affected.
Diet and athletic performance

Inadequate diet inhibits optimal performance in otherwise well-trained athletes. Controversy exists regarding specific dietary requirements, particularly in the areas of protein and vitamin/mineral supplementation. This article reviews energy substrate utilization, provides an overview of nutrient requirements during exercise, discusses ergogenic aids, and where possible, makes specific dietary recommendations for athletes.
Postpartum Depression in Mothers and Fathers: The Role of Parenting Efficacy Expectations During the Transition to Parenthood

Research demonstrates that belief in one’s effectiveness as a parent (parenting efficacy) is linked to numerous positive outcomes for new parents. Conversely, the perceived inability to meet expectations is associated with negative mental health consequences for mothers and fathers. In the present paper we examine the impact of parenting efficacy expectations on the mental health statuses of new parents. Using three waves of data spanning from the prenatal period to the 4-months postpartum period from a sample of 150 first-time mothers and fathers in the Midwestern United States, we find that parenting efficacy is negatively associated with postpartum depression (PPD) for both mothers and fathers throughout the transition period. We also find that mothers and fathers whose parenting efficacy experiences were more negative than expected reported higher levels of PPD at 1-month postpartum. This effect dissipates for mothers, but not fathers, by 4-months postpartum, suggesting differences in the experiences of mothers and fathers during this transition. We conclude that research on the transition to parenthood should continue to include fathers in an effort to better understand the mental health consequences of becoming a parent for the first time, as well as enhance interventions designed to assist couples experiencing this important transition.
Explanatory Autonomy: the role of proportionality, stability and conditional irrelevance

This paper responds to recent criticisms of the idea that true causal claims, satisfying a minimal “interventionist” criterion for causation, can differ in the extent to which they satisfy other conditions—called stability and proportionality—that are relevant to their use in explanatory theorizing. It reformulates the notion of proportionality so as to avoid problems with previous formulations. It also introduces the notion of conditional independence or irrelevance, which I claim is central to understanding the respects and the extent to which upper level explanations can be “autonomous”.
Performance of a hybrid pilot-scale constructed wetland system for treating oil sands process-affected water from the Athabasca oil sands

Mining leases in the Athabasca oil sands (AOS; near Ft. McMurray, Canada) produce large volumes of oil sands process-affected water (OSPW) that contain potentially problematic constituents requiring treatment prior to surface water discharge into receiving aquatic systems. The aim of this research was to identify constituents of concern (COCs) in OSPW sourced from an AOS external tailings facility and design a hybrid pilot-scale constructed wetland treatment systems (CWTS) to decrease concentrations of COCs and subsequently mitigate risks. COCs were identified based on comparisons to ambient water quality thresholds for the protection of aquatic life (i.e. Canadian Environmental Quality Guidelines [CEQGs], Alberta Environment Water Quality Guidelines [Alberta WQGs], and United States Environmental Protection Agency Water Quality Criteria [USEPA WQC]) and toxicity endpoints. Performance of the hybrid pilot-scale CWTS was evaluated by rate and extent of COC removal and change in toxicity as measured by an aquatic invertebrate Ceriodaphnia dubia. Following characterization of OSPW, specific COCs were identified as: naphthenic acids (NAs), oil and grease (O/G), metals/metalloids (Al, B, Cu, Ni, Se, and Zn), chloride, and total suspended solids (TSS). A hybrid pilot-scale CWTS was designed to promote treatment processes to alter (transfer and transform) COCs using sequential reducing and oxidizing wetland reactors and a solar photocatalytic treatment reactor using fixed film titanium dioxide (TiO2). Performance criteria were achieved as the CWTS decreased concentrations of NAs, O/G, and metals below protective thresholds and decreased toxicity to C. dubia. Results from this study provide proof-of-concept data to inform hybrid passive or semi-passive treatment approaches (i.e. constructed wetlands) that could be used to mitigate COCs contained in OSPWs.
Phase I clinical trial of lenalidomide with temsirolimus in patients with advanced cancer.

2604 Background: Lenalidomide (immunomodulatory and antiangiogenic drug) and temsirolimus (mTOR inhibitor) are potentially synergistic (Raje N, Blood 2004;104(13):4188). We conducted a phase I stud...
Beginning the Process of Rethinking Mathematics Instruction: A Professional Development Program

This article describes a professional development program that introduces middle school teachers to an inquiry approach to mathematics instruction as a vehicle to reform their teaching of mathematics. The program is characterized by the use of a few illustrative units that provide an integrated context for experiences as learners and experiences as teachers. Project participants consisted of mathematics and special education teachers in school-based support teams led by school facilitators. Results suggest that the illustrative units were of considerable value in promoting reform. The benefits of including an heterogeneous group of teachers in the same professional development program and of involving teachers from the same school are also discussed.
A new depositional model for sand-rich loess on the Buckley Flats outwash plain, northwestern Lower Michigan

Abstract Loess was first studied in Michigan on the Buckley Flats, where outwash, overlain by ≈70 cm of loamy sediment, was originally interpreted as loess mixed with underlying sands. This paper re-evaluates this landscape through a spatial analysis of data from auger samples and soil pits. To better estimate the loamy sediment’s initial textures, we utilized “filtered” laser diffraction data, which remove much of the coarser sand data. Textures of filtered silt data for the loamy sediment are similar to loess. The siltiest soils are found in the low-relief, central part of the Flats. Spatial analyses revealed that many silt fractions are nearly uniformly distributed, suggesting that the loess was not derived from a single source. The previous depositional model for the loamy mantle relied on loessfall followed by pedoturbation, but does not explain (1) the variation in sand contents across the Flats, or (2) the abrupt contact below the loamy mantle. This contact suggests that the outwash was frozen when the sediments above were deposited. Deep gullies at the western margins of the Flats were likely cut as permafrost facilitated runoff. Our new model for the origin of the loamy mantle suggests that the sands on the uplands were generated from eroding gullies and saltated onto the uplands along with loess that fell more widely. Sands saltating to the west of the Flats may have entrained some silts, facilitating loessfall downwind. At most sites, the loamy mantle gets increasingly silty near the surface, suggesting that saltation ended before loess deposition.
Increased kinetic growth rate during late phase liver regeneration impacts the risk of tumor recurrence after colorectal liver metastases resection

Abstract Background Although experimental data strongly support the pro-tumorigenic role of postoperative liver regeneration, this hypothesis has not been clinically investigated. We aimed to examine the impact of liver regeneration determined by volumetric imaging on recurrence following resection of colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM). Methods Resected liver volume was subtracted from total liver volume (TLV) to define postoperative remnant liver volume (RLV p ). Early and late kinetic growth rates (KGR) were defined as the postoperative increases in liver volume within 2–3 and 8–10 months from surgery, respectively, divided by the corresponding time interval. Results Median early and late KGR was 2.6%/month (IQR: −0.9 to 12.3) and 1.0%/month (IQR: −0.64 to 2.91), respectively. Late KGR predicted intrahepatic recurrence after 1 year from surgery (AUC 0.677, P = 0.011). Specifically, patients with a late KGR ≥1% had a higher cumulative risk of recurrence compared with patients with a KGR P = 0.038). In multivariate analysis, KGR ≥1% independently predicted recurrence ( P = 0.027). Discussion A KGR ≥1% during the late regeneration phase was associated with increased risk of intrahepatic recurrence. These data may inform the timing of adjuvant therapy administration and focus surveillance strategies for high-risk patients.
Deep reactive ion etching of 4H-SiC via cyclic SF6/O2 segments

Cycles of inductively coupled SF6/O2 plasma with low (9%) and high (90%) oxygen content etch segments are used to produce up to 46.6 µm-deep trenches with 5.5 µm-wide openings in single-crystalline 4H-SiC substrates. The low oxygen content segment serves to etch deep in SiC whereas the high oxygen content segment serves to etch SiC at a slower rate, targeting carbon-rich residues on the surface as the combination of carbon-rich and fluorinated residues impact sidewall profile. The cycles work in concert to etch past 30 µm at an etch rate of ~0.26 µm min−1 near room temperature, while maintaining close to vertical sidewalls, high aspect ratio, and high mask selectivity. In addition, power ramps during the low oxygen content segment is used to produce a 1:1 ratio of mask opening to trench bottom width. The effect of process parameters such as cycle time and backside substrate cooling on etch depth and micromasking of the electroplated nickel etch mask are investigated.
Non-sedation of the neonate for radiologic procedures.

On Dec. 16, 2016, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released a warning regarding the potential neurotoxicity of anesthesia and sedation agents on the developing brain in children younger than 3 years and in women during their 3rd trimester of pregnancy. These concerns have relevance to the pediatric radiologist who must take into consideration how the child’s state might impact image quality. In this review the author provides background on the special concerns in the potentially highest-risk group, pre-term and term neonates, and provides guidance and rationale for the avoidance of sedation in procedural imaging of the newborn.
THE ADDITIVE PRESSURE DEPENDENCE OF THE SUPERCONDUCTING TRANSITION TEMPERATURE OF Th-Y ALLOYS

The Tc at zero pressure of solid solution Th-Y alloys increases with Y concentration from the pure Th value to a maximum at 20 a/o Y and then decreases until disappearing at 70 a/o Y. The application of pressure P depresses the Tc of pure Th (negative dTc/dP), while for pure Y a Tc eventually appears with a dTc/dP which is positive. For an alloy Th1-XYX, dTc/dP at any given pressure seems to vary linearly with composition following the relation d T c d P ( T h 1 − X Y X ) = ( 1 − X ) d T c d P ( T h ) + X d T c d P ( Y ) independent of Tc itself or even alloy structure (f.c.c. or h.c.p.).
Age-Specific Differences In Fat Reserves And Migratory Passage Of Setophaga Striata (Blackpoll Warbler)

Abstract Adequate fat reserves are vital for long non-stop transatlantic avian-migration movements, such as those made by Setophaga striata (Blackpoll Warbler). Over a 5-y period, we studied differences in preparedness (determined by presence of fat content and arrival time at stopover locations) between hatch-year (HY) and after hatch-year (AHY) Blackpoll Warblers at 3 stopover sites (Hancock and York counties in Maine, and Plymouth County in Massachusetts) covering 2.65° latitude along the Gulf of Maine. Migration timing varied across a latitudinal gradient and between age classes. In September, AHY Blackpoll Warblers were more abundant in the northern and central counties, but HY birds mostly passed through in October. Compared to AHY Blackpoll Warblers, our results suggest that HY birds migrated along a more northern route. After hatch-year birds had higher fat-content than HY birds at the northern and central sites. However, AHY birds had lower fat-content at the southernmost site. After hatch-year b...
Getting personal: how vaccination exemptions shape herd immunity

Abstract Background State-mandated school entry immunization requirements in the United States play an important role in achieving high vaccine coverage and preventing outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases. Most states allow non-medical exemptions that let children remain unvaccinated on the basis of personal beliefs. However, the ease of obtaining such exemptions varies, resulting in a patchwork of state vaccination exemption laws, contributing to heterogeneity in vaccine coverage across the country. In this study, we evaluate epidemiological effects and spatial variations in non-medical exemption rates in the context of vaccine policies. Methods and Findings We first analyzed the correlation between non-medical exemption rates and vaccine coverage for three significant childhood vaccinations and found that higher rates of non-medical exemptions were associated with lower vaccination rates of school-aged children in all cases. We then identified a subset of states where exemption policy has recently changed and found that the effects on statewide non-medical exemption rates varied widely. Focusing further on Vermont and California, we illustrated how the decrease in non-medical exemptions due to policy change was concurrent to an increase in medical exemptions (in CA) or religious exemptions (in VT). Finally, a spatial clustering analysis was performed for Connecticut, Illinois, and California, identifying clusters of high non-medical exemption rates in these states before and after a policy change occurred. The clustering analyses show that policy changes affect spatial distribution of non-medical exemptions within a state. Conclusions Our work suggests that vaccination policies have significant impacts on patterns of herd immunity. Our findings can be used to develop evidence-based vaccine legislation.
1.1 Deep Learning Hardware: Past, Present, and Future

Historically, progress in neural networks and deep learning research has been greatly influenced by the available hardware and software tools. This paper identifies trends in deep learning research that will influence hardware architectures and software platforms of the future.
On Studying the Trump Presidency

This book presents several early appraisals of the presidency of Donald J. Trump by prominent scholars in presidential politics. In the introductory chapter, Lamb and Neiheisel argue that the presidential leadership literature in political science provides one productive means for conducting these appraisals. After surveying several leadership theories, they suggest why Trump’s leadership is inconsistent with theoretical expectations. Finally, they briefly describe the studies in this volume and suggest several reasons why President Trump has received poor grades as a leader from many academics, public officials, political commentators, and citizens alike.
Efficacy and Safety of Bavituximab in Combination with Sorafenib in Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Single-Arm, Open-Label, Phase II Clinical Trial

Bavituximab, an immunomodulator, targets phosphatidylserine (PS), a membrane lipid externalized on tumor and endothelial cells in response to sorafenib. The objective of this phase II study was to assess the efficacy of combination bavituximab and sorafenib in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In this single-arm phase II study, patients with HCC determined to be unresectable with Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) score ≤ 2, Child–Pugh score A/B7 received intravenous bavituximab 3 mg/kg weekly and oral sorafenib 400 mg twice daily until disease progression or intolerable toxicity. We investigated time to progression (TTP) for patients receiving combination bavituximab and sorafenib compared with that for sorafenib-only historical controls. In total, 38 patients were accrued. The median follow-up was 6.1 months. Patient characteristics were as follows: median age 61 years; male 82%; hepatitis C virus 79%; Black 39%, Hispanic 26%, White 29%; previous treatment 39%; macrovascular invasion 84%; and extrahepatic metastases 24%. The median TTP was 6.7 months (95% confidence interval [CI] 4–17). The median overall survival was 6.1 months (95% CI 5–8), and the median disease-specific survival was 8.6 months (95% CI 6–14). Two patients experienced partial responses; none had a complete response. The disease control rate was 58%. Treatment-related adverse events were observed in 63% of patients, with the most commonly reported therapy-related symptoms being diarrhea (32%), fatigue (26%), and anorexia (24%). The efficacy of adding bavituximab to sorafenib for the treatment of advanced HCC was inconclusive; however, the combination regimen did not exacerbate toxicities associated with single-agent sorafenib. NCT01264705.
Oral HPV prevalence and HPV vaccination among special needs population in the US.

Abstract Introduction Special needs population have barriers accessing healthcare, higher incidence of sexual assaults and lower sexual education. Due to the above this study was conducted- 1) To assess the current prevalence of oral HPV infection among individuals with SHCN (special health care needs) as compared to the general population and 2) To compare the prevalence of HPV vaccination in SHCN individuals (within the recommended age groups) to general population. Methods This data was obtained from NHANES 2013-14 and included 665 individuals with special needs. Weighted prevalence estimates and prevalence ratios (PR) were calculated for oral HPV infection by gender, age (18–59 years), race, smoking history, economic status, and sexual behavior. Prevalence rates were calculated for HPV vaccination. Results Oral HPV was detected in 9% (7.1–11.5; p = 0.05) of special needs adults. High-risk HPV genotypes prevalence was also higher among adults with special needs [5.56% (3.9–7.9) vs 3.87% (2.7–5.4)]. The HPV vaccination rates among 9–26 years special needs females (33.5% vs 37%) and males aged 9–21 years (16.7% vs 21.2%) with special needs was lower than non-special needs individuals. Conclusion There is higher burden of oral HPV infection among adults with special needs compared to general population. Contrastingly, lower vaccination rates were observed among them within the recommended age groups. Further studies are required to determine the barriers to HPV vaccination among individuals with special needs.