cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Probabilistic-Based Approach to Evaluate Winter Maintenance Vehicle Wash Water Management Options:

When locating new facilities, departments of transportation must consider how the wash water generated during routine winter operations will be managed. Previous research has shown that two options are likely to be the most cost-effective: (a) collecting and hauling off-site for disposal (CDISPOSE) or (b) connecting to an existing sanitary sewer system (CSAN). In this article, the cost-effectiveness of these two strategies for Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) maintenance facilities was evaluated probabilistically using Monte Carlo simulation. The probability CDISPOSE was the most cost-effective option was greater than 90% for existing ODOT facilities without sanitary sewer access if the sanitary sewer capital cost exceeded US$172,000. Considering all ODOT facilities, there was 90% probability CDISPOSE was the most cost-effective option if the sanitary sewer capital cost exceeded US$280,000. These results can be used to guide facilities management decisions regarding wash water management options f...
Long-term implications of sustained wind power growth in the United States: Potential benefits and secondary impacts

We model scenarios of the U.S. electric sector in which wind generation reaches 10% of end-use electricity demand in 2020, 20% in 2030, and 35% in 2050. As shown in a companion paper, achieving these penetration levels would have significant implications for the wind industry and the broader electric sector. Compared to a baseline that assumes no new wind deployment, under the primary scenario modeled, achieving these penetrations imposes an incremental cost to electricity consumers of less than 1% through 2030. These cost implications, however, should be balanced against the variety of environmental and social implications of such a scenario. Relative to a baseline that assumes no new wind deployment, our analysis shows that the high-penetration wind scenario yields potential greenhouse-gas benefits of $85–$1,230 billion in present-value terms, with a central estimate of $400 billion. Air-pollution-related health benefits are estimated at $52–$272 billion, while annual electric-sector water withdrawals and consumption are lower by 15% and 23% in 2050, respectively. We also find that a high-wind-energy future would have implications for the diversity and risk of energy supply, local economic development, and land use and related local impacts on communities and ecosystems; however, these additional impacts may not greatly affect aggregate social welfare owing to their nature, in part, as resource transfers.
Etching Nuclear Tracks

Connections of one discovery to another are often unpredictable. Who would reason that imaginings of stored damage by cosmic particles that enter lunar rocks would lead to widespread technological applications? Yet uses of such damage range from draft beer that can be stored at room temperature to im proved oil exploration. We know now that particles can leave narrow trails of atomic disorder in solids — called tracks. And, conveniently, their characteristics can be displayed through the simple magic of chemical etching, which transforms tracks into holes. Many varieties of tracks exist, and the diverse solids that can record them are everywhere. For me this story began in the early 1960s.
Driving Innovation in Radiology: A Summary of the 2015 Intersociety Committee Summer Conference.

The membership of the Intersociety Committee convened to consider how best to continue to stimulate, nurture, and support innovation in radiologic research and education in the face of ever increasing clinical demands and financial constraints. The topic was chosen in recognition that the growth and success of radiology over the past 50-plus years have been driven by spectacular technological developments in imaging and intervention and that the future relevance of the specialty will hinge on how the specialty continues to evolve. To keep radiology a dynamic and vital component of the health care enterprise will require continued innovation in technology and the requisite education that goes with it.
The Circulation of Earth’s OceansOpen image in new window

Earth’s two fluids, air and water circulate in response the regional differences in energy received from the Sun, transporting it to regions where it can be more effectively radiated back into space.
Inflammation and Stroke: An Overview

The immune response to acute cerebral ischemia is a major factor in stroke pathobiology and outcome. While the immune response starts locally in occluded and hypoperfused vessels and the ischemic brain parenchyma, inflammatory mediators generated in situ propagate through the organism as a whole. This "spillover" leads to a systemic inflammatory response first, followed by immunosuppression aimed at dampening the potentially harmful proinflammatory milieu. In this overview we will outline the inflammatory cascade from its starting point in the vasculature of the ischemic brain to the systemic immune response elicited by brain ischemia. Potential immunomodulatory therapeutic approaches, including preconditioning and immune cell therapy will also be discussed.
Effects of time and day of admission on the outcome of critically ill patients admitted to ICU.

Background : Studies have shown that patients admitted to hospitals on weekends and after-hours experience worse outcome than those admitted on weekdays and daytime hours. Although admissions of patients to intensive care units (ICUs) occur 24 hours a day, not all critical care units maintain the same level of staffing during nighttime, weekends, and holidays. This raises concerns in view of evidence showing that the organizational structure of an ICU influences the outcome of critically ill patients. The objective of this study is to evaluate the effects of day and time of admission to ICU on patients’ outcome. Methods : A single-center, prospective, observational study was conducted among all consecutive admissions to ICU in a community teaching hospital during a 4-month period. Results : A total of 282 patients were admitted during the study period. Their mean age was 59.5 years (median 59, range 17–96), and the majority were male (157, 55.7%). Mean Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE)-II score was 18.9 (median 33, range 1–45), and mean ICU length of stay was 3.1 days (median 2, range 1–19). Of the patients, 104 patients (36.9%) were admitted during weekends and 178 (63.1%) during weekdays. A total of 122 patients (43.3%) were admitted after-hours, constituting 68.5% of all admissions during weekdays. Fifty-six patients (19.9%) were admitted during daytime hours, representing 31.5% of all weekday admissions. Forty-five patients (15.9%) died in ICU. Compared to patients admitted on weekends, those admitted on weekdays had increased ICU mortality (operating room (OR)=0.437; 95% confidence interval=0.2054–0.9196; p= 0.0293). Conclusion : A dmissions to ICU during weekends were not independently associated with increased mortality. A linear relationship between weekdays and after-hours admissions to ICU with mortality was observed at our institution. Keywords: intensive care unit; weekdays; weekends; after-hours; outcome (Published: 15 December 2016) Citation: Journal of Community Hospital Internal Medicine Perspectives 2016, 6 : 33478 - http://dx.doi.org/10.3402/jchimp.v6.33478
Dominican Liberal Arts Education in the New Millennium: A Defense in the Age of Homo Economicus

In an age when colleges and universities are being challenged to justify themselves in purely economic terms, Catholic and Dominican institutions must articulate the value-added nature of the education they provide. By calling on the rich Catholic/Dominican intellectual tradition, they can present a vision of a values-based liberal arts education that produces graduates who engage the contemporary world with a unique set of integrated skills and values. The complementary nature of truth, knowledge, faith, and engaged service to the world forms the unique constellation of values offered by the Dominican Catholic higher education experience.
Interpreting vertical movement behavior with holistic examination of depth distribution: a novel method reveals cryptic diel activity patterns of Chinook salmon in the Salish Sea

Aquatic organisms exhibit a variety of diel changes in vertical movement that are investigable through the use of biotelemetry. While certain species do not change their movements between day and night, others exhibit diel vertical migration (DVM) or a diverse range of diel activity patterns (DAPs). Consequently, day–night differences in depth distribution may be stark and easily detectable, or more subtle and difficult to identify. To augment the discovery and classification of cryptic diel vertical movement behavior, we developed and utilized a novel method that analyzed entire depth distributions while comparing diel period, season, and season/diel period models. This analysis revealed a seasonally variable DAP previously unreported in Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha). In summer and fall, Chinook salmon in the Salish Sea juxtaposed shallow and confined daytime movements with nighttime bounce diving. This DAP was reversed in winter, when they occupied deeper sections of the water column during the day, resulting in a substantially overlapping, but more even depth distribution than at night. These results demonstrate the analytical utility of accompanying other metrics with holistic examination and visualization of the entire distribution of depth data. Additionally, we highlight the need to use a framework that answers all of the following questions: (1) does the target species exhibit seasonal variation in depth, (2) does it undergo DVM, (3) if it does not undergo DVM, does it follow a DAP, and (4) if it follows a DAP, what is the difference in vertical movement behavior between diel periods?
Hydrocarbons and their mixtures as alternatives to environmental unfriendly halogenated refrigerants: An updated overview

Abstract Vapor compression refrigeration systems consume high-grade energy and contribute to global warming and ozone layer depletion due to the environmentally unfriendly refrigerants. The use of hydrocarbons offer good drop-in replacements for the existing halogenated refrigerants in terms of environmental impacts and energy consumption. In this study, a review of the previous studies carried out with hydrocarbons as alternative refrigerants in refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pump, and automobile air conditioning systems is presented. An attempt has been made to cover the current status, possibilities, and problems related to the use of hydrocarbons as alternative refrigerants. Hydrocarbon characteristics, allowable refrigerant charge, flammable properties, and safety considerations are also presented. In addition, the study contains also a useful amount of information about the refrigerant properties, environmental impacts, and replacement strategy of conventional refrigerants. Results showed that in spite of highly flammable characteristics, hydrocarbons can offer proper alternatives to the halogenated refrigerants from the standpoint of environment impact, energy efficiency, COP, refrigerant mass, and compressor discharge temperatures. Roadmap on the future work needs in this field is presented. Finally, a summary of previous studies and strategies on pure HC, HC mixtures, and HC/HFC blends used for different applications has been presented and discussed in detail.
A prenatal diagnosis of mosaic trisomy 5 reveals a postnatal complete uniparental disomy of chromosome 5 with multiple congenital anomalies

Mosaic trisomy 5 is a very rare condition in liveborns, with few cases reported in the last four decades. There are some reports of prenatally diagnosed mosaic trisomy 5 resulting in phenotypically normal offspring, suggesting a low level of mosaicism, but there are also reports associated with multiple congenital anomalies, cardiovascular malformations, and intrauterine growth restriction. We report an infant male diagnosed with mosaic trisomy 5 (5/15 cells) via amniocentesis. The patient was subsequently found to have uniparental disomy 5 (UPD5) by postnatal chromosome microarray, but high-resolution chromosome analysis on peripheral blood did not identify trisomy 5. Dysmorphic features included a tall forehead with low anterior hairline, hypertelorism, low-set ears, and a prominent nose and midface. Other anomalies included bilateral bifid thumbs, hypospadias, a perineal fistula, unilateral multicystic kidney, and decreased subcutaneous fat with loose skin. He had complex congenital heart disease consisting of ventricular and atrial septal defects and polyvalvular defects. The patient died at age one after a prolonged admission. We add this case to the literature with the added benefit of data from a postnatal microarray, which was not available in other cases, to broaden the phenotype of mosaic trisomy 5 and UPD5.With the current available technology, we stress the importance of postnatal genetic testing to confirm prenatal cytogenetic findings in order to further define such phenotypes. This will provide the most accurate information and counseling to affected families.
Abstract 667: Immunoprofiling circulating blood as a means to early detection of solid tumors

Our goal was to evaluate whether profiling Myeloid Derived Suppressor Cells (MDSCs) in circulation correlated with the existence and stage of multiple, biopsy-verified solid tumor types and to evaluate whether such analyses could enable early detection. The tumor micro-environment (TME) is replete with numerous immune cells, and the type and concentration of such cells can provide prognostic information. The link between high concentrations of MDSCs and poor prognosis is most likely due to the immuno-suppressive effects of such cells. Some fraction of these cells spill into the blood stream. We utilized flow cytometry to phenotypically quantify subsets of MDSCs and other leukocytes in the circulation of biopsy-verified cancer patients, as well as in age and sex matched healthy donors. Our results indicate a marked increase in MDSC levels in the circulation of tumor patients relative to healthy donors. We have analyzed patients presenting over a dozen solid tumor types (lung, breast, ovarian, colon, melanoma, liver, thyroid, pancreatic, uterine, osteosarcoma, appendiceal, leiomyosarcoma, liposarcoma, and vulvar) and found notable differences in the immune-profiles of circulating blood in these patients. It appears that the immune response, as measured by our flow cytometry technique, is general for most tumor types. We will present correlations and inter-relations between different cell types and evidence of tumors. While our studies to date have been performed in an unblinded manner, we will present performance data (specificity and sensitivity) for our approach. Citation Format: Amit Kumar, Dimitry Gabrilovich, Frank J. Rauscher, George Dominguez, Cyrus Sholevar, John Roop, Anthony Campisi, Alexander Polo. Immunoprofiling circulating blood as a means to early detection of solid tumors [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2017; 2017 Apr 1-5; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2017;77(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 667. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2017-667
A method for characterizing essential tremor from the shoulder to the wrist.

Abstract Background Despite the pervasive and devastating effect of Essential Tremor (ET), the distribution of ET throughout the upper limb is unknown. We developed a method for characterizing the distribution of ET and performed a preliminary characterization in a small number of subjects with ET. Methods Using orientation sensors and inverse kinematics, we measured tremor in each of the seven major degrees of freedom (DOF) from the shoulder to the wrist while ten patients with mild ET assumed 16 different postures. We described the tremor in each DOF in terms of power spectral density measures and investigated how tremor varied between DOF, postures, gravitational torques, and repetitions. Findings Our method successfully resulted in tremor measures in each DOF, allowing one to compare tremor between DOF and determine the distribution of tremor throughout the upper limb, including how the distribution changes with posture. In our small number of subjects, we found that the amount of power in the frequency band associated with ET (4–12 Hz) was lowest in the shoulder and greatest in the wrist. Similarly, the existence and amplitude of peaks in this band increased from proximal to distal. Although the amount of tremor differed significantly between postures, we did not find any clear patterns with changes in posture or gravitational torque. Interpretation This method can be used to characterize the distribution of tremor throughout the upper limb. Our preliminary characterization suggests that the amount of tremor increases in a proximal-distal manner.
Postoperative Complications Drive Unplanned Readmissions After Esophagectomy for Cancer.

Background Hospital readmissions are increasingly viewed as a marker of inferior health care quality and penalized with decreased reimbursement. The timing of, and reasons for, readmissions after esophagectomy for cancer are not well understood. We examined the association of complications to 30-day postoperative-related, unplanned readmission to identify opportunities for improvement in patient care. Methods We analyzed the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database (2012 to 2015) to characterize 30-day postoperative unplanned readmissions after esophagectomy for cancer using descriptive statistics. Type and timing of readmission after discharge was assessed. A Cox proportional hazards model was developed to identify predictors of readmission. Results Of 3,723 patients who underwent esophagectomy for cancer, 1,419 (38.1%) experienced ≥1 complication within 30 days. A total of 400 patients (10.7%) experienced related, unplanned readmissions within 30 days of the operation, and postoperative complications were documented in 263 (65.8%). Leading causes of readmission were infectious, pulmonary, and gastrointestinal complications. Of these patients, 155 (59%) were readmitted within 7 days and 236 (90%) within 14 days of discharge. The Cox proportional hazards model identified readmission being associated with occurrence of postdischarge infectious, pulmonary, venous thromboembolic, and urinary tract infection complications, in-hospital urinary tract infection complications, and log-transformation of length of stay (representing increasing length of stay) (all p Conclusions Postoperative occurrence of common complications and prolonged length of stay are associated with unplanned readmission after esophagectomy. Most patients are readmitted within 1 week of discharge. Earlier follow-up after discharge may identify patients with complications and facilitate outpatient intervention to prevent readmission.
Biosynthetic Proteases That Catalyze the Macrocyclization of Ribosomally Synthesized Linear Peptides

Circular peptides have long been sought after as scaffolds for drug design as they demonstrate protein-like properties in the context of small, constrained peptides. Traditional routes toward the production of cyclic peptides rely on synthesis or semisynthetic methods, which restrict their use as platforms for the production of large, structurally diverse chemical libraries. Here, we discuss the biosynthetic routes toward the N–C macrocyclization of linear peptide precursors, specifically, those transformations that are catalyzed by peptidases. While canonical peptidases catalyze the proteolysis of linear peptides, the biosynthetic macrocyclases couple proteolytic cleavage with cyclization to produce macrocyclic compounds. In this Perspective, we explore the different structural features that impart on each of these biosynthetic proteases the distinct ability to perform macrocyclization and focus on their potential use in biotechnology.
Use of antidepressants in the management of women with chronic pelvic pain.

SUMMARY Despite a lack of formal evidence for the efficacy of antidepressants in the treatment of CPP, several lines of evidence suggest that they may play an increasingly important role in the treatment of this disorder. Although best combined as part of a multimodal treatment package that includes psychotherapy, behavior change, and physical activation, they appear to have promise for at least a subgroup of women with chronic pain. The relative safety of these medications and the high prevalence of major depression in this population of patients make the routine empirical trial of these medications a desirable, cost- and time-effective strategy in the treatment of this disorder.
Neurite tracking in time-lapse calcium images using MRF-modeled pictorial structures

Locomotion is controlled by sensory neurons, yet a fundamental, unanswered question is how this happens. We use time-lapse calcium imagery to observe and model the link between locomotion and sensory neuron activity in larva Drosophila. The main issue with calcium images is that they produce low responses when there is little or no neuronal activity. In this work, we use a neurite centerline tracking approach that tackles this issue, even under significant deformations during movement. It incorporates image appearance, local and global shape, as well as motion, in a Markov Random Field (MRF) framework. The objective function is optimized using quadratic pseudo-boolean optimization with a-expansion, which is also known as fusion moves. In our experiments we illustrate how our method can track neurites under severe local intensity ambiguities.
Was ist die Zeit

Unter unseren Erfahrungen nimmt die Zeit eine ganz besondere Stellung ein. Unsere Sinne vermitteln uns Eindrucke in einer bestimmten zeitlichen Ordnung; durch unsere Sinne nehmen wir an dem allgemeinen Strom der Zeit teil, der durch das ganze Weltall geht, ein Ereignis nach dem anderen hervorbringt und seine Erzeugnisse gleich wieder hinter sich last. Als ob etwas Fliesendes zu etwas Festem wird, so wird das, was einst Zukunft war, zur unwiederbringlichen Vergangenheit. Wir befinden uns inmitten dieses Stromes und nennen unsern Standort Gegenwart; aber was in diesem Augenblick Gegenwart ist, gleitet in die Vergangenheit, wahrend wir weitertreiben zu einer neuen Gegenwart und darum unaufhorlich im ewigen Jetzt verweilen. Wir konnen diesen Strom weder anhalten, noch seine Richtung andern; denn der Vergangenheit ist keine Wiederkehr beschieden. Die Zeit tragt uns unerbittlich mit sich fort und vergonnt uns keinen Aufschub.
Problem Driven Machine Learning by Co-evolving Genetic Programming Trees and Rules in a Learning Classifier System.

A persistent challenge in data mining involves matching an applicable as well as effective machine learner to a target problem. One approach to facilitate this process is to develop algorithms that avoid modeling assumptions and seek to adapt to the problem at hand. Learning classifier systems (LCSs) have proven themselves to be a flexible, interpretable, and powerful approach to classification problems. They are particularly advantageous with respect to multivariate, complex, or heterogeneous patterns of association. While LCSs have been successfully adapted to handle continuous-valued endpoint (i.e. regression) problems, there are still some key performance deficits with respect to model prediction accuracy and simplicity when compared to other machine learners. In the present study we propose a strategy towards improving LCS performance on supervised learning continuous-valued endpoint problems. Specifically, we hypothesize that if an LCS population includes and co-evolves two disparate representations (i.e. LCS rules, and genetic programming trees) than the system can adapt the appropriate representation to best capture meaningful patterns of association, regardless of the complexity of that association, or the nature of the endpoint (i.e. discrete vs. continuous). To successfully integrate these modeling representations, we rely on multi-objective fitness (i.e. accuracy, and instance coverage) and an information exchange mechanism between the two representation ‘species’. This paper lays out the reasoning for this approach, introduces the proposed methodology, and presents basic preliminary results supporting the potential of this approach as an area for further evaluation and development.
Inflammatory Biomarkers in Patients with Acute Brain Injuries

Acute brain injury as a result of stroke and traumatic brain injury are leading causes of disability and mortality. Methods to improve patient diagnosis and prognosis for these common conditions are needed. Molecular biomarkers are one method that has been evaluated to diagnose acute brain injury, determine its cause, and predict outcomes and response to therapy. Markers that have been identified include a variety of proteins, nucleic acids, and lipids that relate to the pathophysiology of acute brain injury. Inflammation plays an important role in acute brain injury and several molecules involved in inflammation have been identified as biomarkers. However, biomarkers for acute brain injury is a developing field that requires additional study is to identify markers for use in clinical practice. These studies will include evaluating a larger number of candidate markers using proteomic, genomic, metabolomic, and lipidomic approaches. Additionally, novel markers such as microRNA and the use of panels that integrate multiple markers may also prove to be valuable tools in acute brain injury. In this chapter, we provide a summary of identified inflammatory biomarkers in acute brain injury, and how these biomarkers could add to patient care.
On the Use of Cost-Effective Valid-Time-Shifting (VTS) Method to Increase Ensemble Size in the GFS Hybrid 4DEnVar System

AbstractValid-time-shifting (VTS) ensembles, either in the form of full ensemble members (VTSM) or ensemble perturbations (VTSP), were investigated as inexpensive means to increase ensemble size in...
The Quantum and Rest Frame Vacuum - Absolute Motion with Lorentz Convariance

In reading a translation of Lorentz’s original relativity paper, which preceded Einstein’s by about five years, I was startled to see how much of Special Relativity he developed. His foundation was the idea that Maxwell’s equation of electromagnetism is more fundamental than Newton’s equation of motion. He explored the “symmetry” of Maxwell’s equation, discovering the famous Lorentz transformations. He also then modified Newton’s motion equation to confirm to this symmetry and thus hit upon the correct Newton-Einstein equation of motion.
Adrenal Tissue-Specific Deletion of TASK Channels Causes Aldosterone-Driven Angiotensin II-Independent Hypertension.

The renin-angiotensin system tightly controls aldosterone synthesis. Dysregulation is evident in hypertension (primary aldosteronism), low renin, and resistant hypertension) but also can exist in n...
Cationic Amphiphiles with Specificity against Gram-Positive and Gram-Negative Bacteria: Chemical Composition and Architecture Combat Bacterial Membranes.

Small-molecule cationic amphiphiles (CAms) were designed to combat the rapid rise in drug-resistant bacteria. CAms were designed to target and compromise the structural integrity of bacteria membranes, leading to cell rupture and death. Discrete structural features of CAms were varied, and structure–activity relationship studies were performed to guide the rational design of potent antimicrobials with desirable selectivity and cytocompatibility profiles. In particular, the effects of cationic conformational flexibility, hydrophobic domain flexibility, and hydrophobic domain architecture were evaluated. Their influence on antimicrobial efficacy in Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria was determined, and their safety profiles were established by assessing their impact on mammalian cells. All CAms have a potent activity against bacteria, and hydrophobic domain rigidity and branched architecture contribute to specificity. The insights gained from this project will aid in the optimization of CAm structures.
The influence of gender and race on heart failure self-care.

ObjectivesTo explore gender and racial differences in heart failure (HF) self-care processes and examine whether gender and race predict HF self-care.MethodsA secondary analysis of baseline data (n...
Abstract P4-01-18: Correlation between circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) alterations and circulating tumor cells (CTC) uncovers new mechanisms of metastasis for patients with metastatic breast carcinoma (MBC)

Introduction: Novel molecular diagnostics including CTCs and ctDNA have been proved to predict disease metastasis and survival. However, the frequency of detection of actionable mutations using CTCs and ctDNA is variable based upon tumor related factors and diagnostic platform sensitivity. Herein, we evaluated a novel NGS technology in the ability of detecting driver and clonal genomic abnormalities in samples from MBC patients, and compared ctDNA alterations with CTCs and CTC-cluster. This study demonstrated several novel correlation between some specific ctDNA alterations and CTCs or CTCs related biomarkers, which opened new insight on mechanisms of metastasis for MBC. Methods: This study included 52 samples from 26 patients with stage III/IV BCa treated at NMH (2016-2017) and who received standard systemic treatments based on disease subtypes. Whole blood samples (7.5ml/each) were used for CTC enrichment and enumeration in FDA approved CELLTRACKS ANALYZERII® System (Menarini). ctDNA from clinical plasma samples was analyzed by using PredicinePLUS, a NGS-based assay (Predicine Inc) with a 180-gene panel for genomic alterations mutations. Results of CTCs and ctDNA alterations were linked to clinical database. Matched pairs variations between CTCs and ctDNA alterations was compared by Wilcoxon signed-ranks test and Kruskal-Wallis test. Results: Genomic Alterations (SNVs, Indels and copy number variations) were detected on 52 genes by PredicinePLUS assay. All samples (100%) demonstrated at least 1 somatic alterations. There were 75 mutations detected within 29 genes, and the variant frequency of mutated genes ranges from 0.11% to 68.56%. Increased CTCs were highly significantly correlated with genomic alterations in the genes (wild type vs alterations) including GATA3 (8vs 37), ESR1 ( 2.5 vs 41.3), CDH1 (3.5 vs 50.5) and CCND1 (4 vs 120) (P Conclusions: By using the novel diagnostic platform with the ability to identify ctDNA mutation and copy number variation, this study demonstrated several novel genes alterations which were highly correlated with CTCs, CTC-cluster and HER2. Some genes (CCND1 and CDH1) got involved into the changes on both CTCs and CTC-cluster, when some genes (CCND1, CDKN2A, ESR1 and GATA3) were related with change of CTCs and HER2 expression. Correlation of CTCs and ctDNA can be reliably and routinely used as non-invasive method for monitoring disease metastasis and predict the prognosis in MBC in clinic. Citation Format: Davis A, Zhang Q, Gerratana L, Zhang Y, Flaum L, Shad A, Behdad A, Gradishar W, Platanias L, Cristofanilli M. Correlation between circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) alterations and circulating tumor cells (CTC) uncovers new mechanisms of metastasis for patients with metastatic breast carcinoma (MBC) [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2018 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2018 Dec 4-8; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P4-01-18.
The Influence of Habitat Preference on Longitudinal Population Composition and Distribution of Groupers (Serranidae) in Chumbe Island Coral Park, Zanzibar Tanzania

A survey of six common grouper (Serranidae) species was conducted on both the western protected and eastern unprotected reefs around Chumbe Island, Zanzibar. Species, estimated maturity, and habitat were recorded using standardized categories. Fundamental niche and general habitat preference were extrapolated based on observed realized niche and qualified based on substrate, depth, slope position, and general reef region. Taking habitat preference into account, abundance and biomass density of serranid populations were compared between locations on the reef in order to best account for how habitat influences distribution and population health. The results of this study provide depth to previous research on the protected reef and indicate noteworthy shifts in population composition between 2014 and 2018 that favour species with less specified habitat preference, such as Aethaloperca rogaa and Cephalopholis argus. Surveys of Chumbe’s nearby unprotected eastern reef indicate low levels of species abundance, which this study hypothesizes is the result of inappropriate habitat structure, increased fishing pressure, and decreased population health within the MPA. Ultimately, this study suggests that MPAs do not protect all species equally, and habitat preference must be taken into account when assessing MPA effectiveness at protecting different species. Indeed, especially as serranid habitat faces continued degradation, serranid conservation will depend even more on protection of each species’ preferred habitat in coral systems. As such, assessing serranid populations as a whole fails to capture the changes in population distribution and composition that is occurring between species, which may be more indicative of shifts and disturbances in the ecosystem.
Risk of RBC alloimmunization in multiple myeloma patients treated by Daratumumab

Background Daratumumab (DARA) is a human monoclonal antibody for the treatment of multiple myeloma (MM). DARA binds to CD38 on RBCs and interferes with detection of RBC alloantibodies. The objective of this study was to evaluate the risk of RBC alloimmunization in MM patients treated with DARA. Materials and methods A retrospective study of the complete serological profile and transfusion history of 45 MM patients received transfusion and treated with DARA from July 2015 to December 2018 was undertaken. All cases with positive Ab screens were treated with DTT to identify RBC alloantibodies. RBC transfusion history was monitored between the first DARA dose to the last or extending to the first negative Ab screen after the last DARA dose if the Ab screen was ever positive. Forty-six MM patients received transfusion but not DARA were studied as control group. Results Totally 184 Ab screens were done on 45 patients transfused with ABO-Rh compatible RBCs, phenotypically matched units or both. None of them showed detectable alloantibodies after DTT treatment. The duration of Ab screening positivity varied markedly, ranging from 25 days to 5 months after the last dose. Two of 46 patients in the control group had preexisting alloantibodies but no new alloantibodies were detected during study period. Conclusions Our results indicate that the risk of forming new RBC alloantibodies after transfusion in MM patients treated with current regimens is very low and no DARA-associated difference in the alloimmunization risk. No significant difference in alloimmunization is detected between ABO-Rh compatible and phenotypically matched transfusion.
Bending and looping of long DNA by Polycomb repressive complex 2 revealed by AFM imaging in liquid.

Polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) is a histone methyltransferase that methylates histone H3 at Lysine 27. PRC2 is critical for epigenetic gene silencing, cellular differentiation and the formation of facultative heterochromatin. It can also promote or inhibit oncogenesis. Despite this importance, the molecular mechanisms by which PRC2 compacts chromatin are relatively understudied. Here, we visualized the binding of PRC2 to naked DNA in liquid at the single-molecule level using atomic force microscopy. Analysis of the resulting images showed PRC2, consisting of five subunits (EZH2, EED, SUZ12, AEBP2 and RBBP4), bound to a 2.5-kb DNA with an apparent dissociation constant ($K_{\rm{D}}^{{\rm{app}}}$) of 150 ± 12 nM. PRC2 did not show sequence-specific binding to a region of high GC content (76%) derived from a CpG island embedded in such a long DNA substrate. At higher concentrations, PRC2 compacted DNA by forming DNA loops typically anchored by two or more PRC2 molecules. Additionally, PRC2 binding led to a 3-fold increase in the local bending of DNA's helical backbone without evidence of DNA wrapping around the protein. We suggest that the bending and looping of DNA by PRC2, independent of PRC2's methylation activity, may contribute to heterochromatin formation and therefore epigenetic gene silencing.
Understanding impacts of groundwater dynamics on flooding and levees in Greater New Orleans

Abstract Study region The Greater New Orleans in southeastern Louisiana, USA. Study focus Flooding is a major threat to New Orleans due to its geographic location and geologic condition. However, potential groundwater flooding is seldom studied and poorly understood. This study investigated potential groundwater flooding and seepage-induced hazards to levees in New Orleans. High-fidelity stratigraphy and groundwater models were developed to investigate groundwater dynamics and identify areas prone to groundwater flooding and low levee factor of safety. New hydrological insights for the region The stratigraphy model showed that 74 % of shallow sediments in New Orleans are fine grains and noticeable amounts of coarse sediments connect to surface waters. The groundwater model showed that shallow sands, such as beach sands and point bar sands, have strong hydraulic connections with lakes, canals, and Mississippi River. Groundwater flow simulation in 2018 found that 40 % of New Orleans metropolitan area may have groundwater level above ground surface all year round. Low-lying areas with relatively permeable surficial sediments and high groundwater head in shallow sands are concerned about potential groundwater flooding. The simulation results also indicated that levees in these areas have high probabilities of low factors of safety. Not only did the model prediction agree well to the previous levee assessments for the Hurricane Katrina disaster, but it also indicated additional areas with potential levee safety issues.
Accuracy of three-dimensionally printed animal-specific drill guides for implant placement in canine thoracic vertebrae: A cadaveric study.

Author(s): Mariani, Christopher L; Zlotnick, Joshua A; Harrysson, Ola; Marcellin-Little, Denis J; Malinak, Kristen; Gavitt, Ashley; Guevar, Julien | Abstract: ObjectiveTo assess the accuracy of three-dimensionally (3-D) printed drill guides in constraining the trajectory of drill tracts for implants in canine thoracic vertebrae.Study designExperimental ex vivo study.Sample populationFive canine thoracic vertebral column specimens.MethodsGuides to constrain drill trajectories were designed on the basis of computed tomographic (CT) imaging of six thoracic vertebrae (T8-T13) and were 3-D printed. The guides were used to create drill tracts in these vertebrae by both an experienced and a novice surgeon, and CT imaging was repeated. The entry point and angulation of actual and planned drill tracts were compared for both surgeons. Unintended cortical violations were also assessed by using a modified Zdichavsky classification.ResultsFifty-eight drill tracts were created in 30 vertebrae. Mean entry point deviation was 1.4 mm (range, 0.4-3.4), and mean angular deviation was 5.1° (range, 1.5°-10.8°). There were no differences between surgeons in entry point deviation (P = .07) or angular deviation (P = .22). There were no unintended cortical bone violations, and all drill tracts were classified as modified Zdichavsky grade I.ConclusionThe 3-D printed guides used in the current study yielded drill tracts with small linear and angular errors from intended paths and 100% accuracy for placement within vertebral pedicles and bodies. This technique was conveniently used by both an experienced and a novice surgeon.Clinical significanceThis technique might be immediately applicable to clinical cases requiring thoracic vertebral stabilization and may allow safe and accurate implant placement for surgeons with varying experience levels.
Mitral Regurgitation in Patients With Coexisting Chronic Aortic Regurgitation: An Evidence-Based Narrative Review

Chronic aortic regurgitation (AR) frequently leads to significant downstream changes to the left ventricle and pulmonary vasculature; these structural and physiologic changes result in lower- than expected patient survival. Progressive, uncorrected AR can lead to left ventricle dilation and subsequent mitral valve leaflet tethering, as well as mitral annular dilation, resulting in secondary mitral regurgitation (MR) in up to 45% of patients. Surgical aortic valve replacement (AVR) improves secondary MR in most patients, but survival is significantly lower in those patients who do not show improvement in MR after AVR. Thus, there is considerable debate on whether the mitral valve should be intervened upon at the time of the AVR. In this review, the authors address the long-term outlook for patients with chronic AR and concurrent MR. The authors also review the available evidence on concomitant mitral valve surgery in patients undergoing AVR for AR. Lastly, this narrative review examines the recent advances in transcatheter mitral valve repair and replacement, and explores the potential role of transcatheter mitral therapies in patients with secondary MR due to AR.
Emergency Department and Hospital-Based Interventions

Medical centers, particularly emergency departments (EDs), are a frequent touchpoint for children and youth exposed to violence in their homes, schools, and communities. Many circumstances place children at risk for firearm injury, and these circumstances vary with age. Young children encountering a firearm in the home can lead to tragic consequences and severe injury or death, whereas older children and adolescents are more at risk for intentional use of a firearm to harm either themselves or others. There are antecedents of injury that can be identified during a medical encounter, such as the access to firearms, depression, and suicidality. In addition, there are potentially brewing issues of revenge and retaliation that may offer medical personnel a chance to intervene before severe injury or death. This chapter will describe ED and hospital-based assessment and interventions for youth at risk of firearm injury and will focus on limiting access to firearms, preventing suicide, and reducing the incidence and impact of assaults from peer violence.
Pyrrole carboxamide introduction in the total synthesis of pyrrole–imidazole alkaloids

In this review various strategies for the incorporation of the signature pyrrole carboxamide moiety in the total syntheses of pyrrole–imidazole alkaloids (PIA) are discussed. These so-called oroidin alkaloids have a broad range of biological activities and display interesting skeletal diversity and complexity. These alkaloids are sponge-derived secondary metabolites and thus far more than 200 members of the PIA family have been isolated over the past few decades. Methods range from classical amide bond forming processes to non-traditional bond formation including the de novo synthesis of the pyrrole itself.
Social context and advertising effectiveness: a dynamic study

Consumers of movies, videos, and television programmes enjoy sharing the experience with groups of family and friends. Group consumption or co-viewing of audiovisual entertainment helps make co-exposure to advertisements fairly common across media vehicles and technologies. Research in marketing and psychology has consistently shown that the presence of, and/or the interactions with, others affects cognition. Therefore, co-exposure should sway advertising effects. Still, most media planning assumes that the value of reach and frequency for advertisers does not change over social contexts. The present study investigates co-exposure to programme ‘promos’ as an antecedent of individual consumption of the advertised programmes on people meter panel data. Our findings support and extend those reported in the sparse experimental literature, provide the basis for a theoretical model of social context of exposure, and point to possible research directions for practitioners and academics.
Integrated network experimentation using simulation and emulation

Discrete-event packet-level network simulation is well-known and widely used. Network emulation is a hybrid approach that combines real elements of a deployed networked application-such as end hosts and protocol implementations-with synthetic, simulated, or abstracted elements-such as the network links, intermediate nodes and background traffic. A key difference between the two approaches is that in the former, the notion of time is virtual and is independent of real time, whereas the latter must execute in real time. Emulation gains realism while naturally foregoing complete repeatability; historically, emulation was also tedious to control and manage. We define integrated network experimentation as spatially combining real elements with simulated elements in the same experimental run, each modeling different portions of a network topology. Integrated experiments enable new validation techniques and larger experiments than obtainable by using real elements alone. This paper highlights the key issues in integrated network experimentation and presents some of the design techniques we use in designing, building, and putting into public production use such an integrated environment, running on a space-shared cluster.
SELF EFFICACY THEORY AND LEARNING ENVIRONMENT RESEARCH

The purpose of this article is to bring to the attention of educators interested in student perceptions of the learning environment the concept of self-efficacy. Social learning theorists define perceived self-efficacy as a sense of confidence regarding the performance of specific tasks. Our premise is that student self-efficacy beliefs regarding academic performance can have important implications for improving learning environments and, consequently, student outcomes. We believe that focusing on students' academic self-efficacy could alter student perceptions of the learning environment. Unlike most beliefs systems, which can be highly personal, academic self-efficacy is generally a belief that is addressable in a classroom context. Therefore, understanding more about the reciprocal relationship between the learning environment and students' academic self-efficacy beliefs should be a fruitful focus for learning environment research.
Xanthones of the Gentianaceae—II : Frasera albicaulis Dougl. ex Griesb.

Abstract The root of Frasera albicaulis Dougl. ex Griesb. has been shown to contain fifteen xanthones, ten of which are previously unreported in nature. These compounds have been identified spectroscopically and in most cases by comparison with synthetic samples. They are shown to be based on the 1,3,5- and 1,3,7-trioxyxanthone systems with added oxygen atoms at 2 and/or 4, and represent a number of methylation patterns including 1,3-dihydroxy, 1-hydroxy, 2-hydroxy, and totally methylated materials.