cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Iron carbide films formed by plasma deposition and plasma carburizing

Abstract Thin Fe7C3 films were successfully prepared in an r.f. glow discharge using Fe(CO)5 and H2 as the gas source. The films showed a columnar crystal growth with a particle size less than 0.5 μm. The sheet conductivity of the films was in the range 1.0−5.0 × 10 4 ω −1 cm −1 . The microhardness of the film on a glass substrate was 624.0 kgf mm−2. The Fe7C3 films formed on glass showed the presence of Fe7C3 and α-Fe phases after being annealed at 400 °C for 6 h. However, Fe3C (cementite) films formed on iron substrates. The influence of the H2O flow rate on the deposited films was investigated for both Fe(CO)5 + H2O and Fe(CO)5 + H2 + H2O systems. The plasma carburizing process was performed using either CO or a mixture of CO and H2 as the gas source and electrodeposited iron as the substrate. In the CO system, a carbon layer was formed as the main product while in the CO + H2 system, a homogeneous Fe3C film with a particle size of less than 0.5 μm and a microhardness of 479.0 kgf mm−2 was formed.
Synthesis of a stable indium complex derived from γ-silyl-α,α-difluorobromopropyne: evaluation of experimental parameters

Abstract Fluoroallenes are potentially useful cyclization precursors because of the synergistic combination of fluorine’s unique stereolectronic features and the rich chemistry of allenes. We have optimized the experimental conditions needed for the formation of a difluoropropargylindium complex 2 . Sonication, lower reaction temperatures (5 °C), and dilute concentration of the starting material (0.15 M) are required to maximize production of this complex. Although the structure of this complex remains unknown, we have found that the nature of the alkyl substituents on the silyl group does not influence the formation of 2 but it does affects the allenyl 5 to propargyl 4 ratio.
Hemolysis of human erythrocytes by transient electric field

Exposure of human erythrocytes, under isotonic conditions, to a high voltage pulse of a few kV/cm leads to total hemolysis of the red cells. Experiments described herein demonstrate that the hemolysis is due to the effect of electric field. Neither the effect of current nor the extent of the rapid Joule-heating to the suspending medium shows a direct correlation with the observed hemolysis. Voltage pulsation of the erythrocyte suspension can induce a transmembrane potential across the cell membrane and, at a critical point, it either opens up or creates pores in the red cells. In isotonic saline the pores are small. They allow passage of potassium and sodium ions but not sucrose and hemoglobin molecules. The pores are larger in low ionic conditions and permit permeation of sucrose molecules, but under no circumstances can hemoglobin leak out as the direct result of the voltage pulse. Kinetic measurements indicate that the hemolysis of the red cells follows a stepwise mechanism: leakage of ions leads to an osmotic imbalance which in turn causes a colloidal hemolysis of the red cells. Other effects of the voltage pulsation are also discussed.
Requirement for diacylglycerol and protein kinase C in HeLa cell-substratum adhesion and their feedback amplification of arachidonic acid production for optimum cell spreading.

Abstract Release of arachidonic acid (AA) and subsequent formation of a lipoxygenase (LOX) metabolite(s) is an obligatory signal to induce spreading of HeLa cells on a gelatin substratum (Chun and Jacobson, 1992). This study characterizes signaling pathways that follow the LOX metabolite(s) formation. Levels of diacylglycerol (DG) increase upon attachment and before cell spreading on a gelatin substratum. DG production and cell spreading are insignificant when phospholipase A2 (PLA2) or LOX is blocked. In contrast, when cells in suspension where PLA2 activity is not stimulated are treated with exogenous AA, DG production is turned on, and inhibition of LOX turns it off. This indicates that the formation of a LOX metabolite(s) from AA released during cell attachment induces the production of DG. Consistent with the DG production is the activation of protein kinase C (PKC) which, as with AA and DG, occurs upon attachment and before cell spreading. Inhibition of AA release and subsequent DG production blocks both PKC activation and cell spreading. Cell spreading is also blocked by the inhibition of PKC with calphostin C or sphingosine. The inhibition of cell spreading induced by blocking AA release is reversed by the direct activation of PKC with phorbol ester. However, the inhibition of cell spreading induced by PKC inhibition is not reversed by exogenously applied AA. In addition, inhibition of PKC does not block AA release and DG production. The data indicate that there is a sequence of events triggered by HeLa cell attachment to a gelatin substratum that leads to the initiation of cell spreading: AA release, a LOX metabolite(s) formation, DG production, and PKC activation. The data also provide evidence indicating that HeLa cell spreading is a cyclic feedback amplification process centered on the production of AA, which is the first messenger produced in the sequence of messengers initiating cell spreading. Both DG and PKC activity that are increased during HeLa cell attachment to a gelatin substratum appear to be involved. DG not only activates PKC, which is essential for cell spreading, but is also hydrolyzed to AA. PKC, which is initially activated as consequence of AA production, also increases more AA production by activating PLA2.
Regional geochemical studies in the Patagonia Mountains, Santa Cruz County, Arizona

Abstract The Patagonia Mountains in southern Arizona contain the deeply buried porphyry copper system at Red Mountain as well as a number of other base- and precious-metal mines and prospects. The range contains complex Basin and Range geology with units ranging in age from Precambrian to Holocene. Rock types present include igneous intrusive and extrusive units as well as sedimentary and metamorphic units, most of which have been tectonically disturbed. A total of 264 stream-sediment samples were collected and analyzed for 32 elements. Geochemical maps for Sb, Ag, Pb, Te, B, Mn, Au, Zn, Cu (total), Cu (cold-extractable), and Mo, as well as for Cu (cold-extractable)/Cu (total) and Fe/Mn, are presented. Anomaly patterns for these elements generally occur over the Red Mountain deposit and (or) along a north-northwest trend parallel to the major Harshaw Creek Fault. Much of the entire area sampled contains widespread anomalies for Pb, Te, and Cu; the other elements are only locally anomalous. Various plots of ratios of Cu (cold-extractable) to Cu (total) did not produce any new information not readily apparent on either one of the two copper maps. A plot of ratios of Fe to Mn delineated many areas of pyrite mineralization. Several of these areas may represent the pyritic halos around deeply buried porphyry copper systems. The best ore guide for the Red Mountain porphyry system is the coincidence of positive anomalies of Mo, Pb, and Te and a negative anomaly of Mn. Other areas with anomalies of the same suite of elements are present within the Patagonia Mountains. It is concluded that geochemical sampling, even in a highly contaminated area, can be useful in delineating major geologic features, such as porphyry copper belts and major faults. Multielement geochemical surveys on a regional scale can effectively locate large, deeply buried, zoned mineral systems such as that at Red Mountain. Plots of element ratios, where adequately understood, can provide geochemical information not readily discernible from plots of single elements alone.
A Procedure for the Bulk Preparation of Brain Microsomes With Low Speed Centrifugation

Abstract A method is described for the rapid isolation of microsomes from brains of various species. The method depends on the interaction of calcium with microsomes. The procedure is limited because calcium inhibits certain microsoma1 enzymes. Magnesium and manganese may be substituted for calcium. However, the substitutions decrease the reliability and efficiency of the procedure.
The minimum mantle viscosity of an accreting Earth

The minimum mantle viscosity in an earth accreting from planetesimals is estimated. A plausible distribution of planetesimal sizes deposits enough energy to melt the outer nine-tenths of earth's mass; however, vigorous convection keeps temperatures near the solidus. Viscosity is significantly lower than prevails now. The temperature-dependent viscosity provides self-regulation so there is a continuing balance between accretional energy input and heat transfer out. This allows calculation of the minimum viscosity necessary to transfer out heat by a Nu/Ra-number relation. Typical viscosities are 0.1 to a million sq m/sec, lowest at mid-accretion when the mass growth rate is largest. Terrestrial planets are compared, and minimum iron descent times to central lithospheres are calculated.
On the Linear Temperature Dependence of Phonon Thermal Boundary Conductance in the Classical Limit

We present a new model for predicting thermal boundary conductance in the classical limit. This model takes a different form than those of the traditionally used mismatch theories in the fact that the temperature dependence of thermal boundary conductance is driven by the phononic scattering mechanisms of the materials comprising the interface as opposed to the heat capacities of those materials. The model developed in this work assumes that a phonon on one side of an interface may not scatter at the interface itself but instead scatter with phonons in the adjacent material via the scattering processes intrinsic in the adjacent material. We find that this model is in good agreement with classical molecular dynamics simulations of phonon transport across a Si/Ge interface.
Retrodirective array design using ring antenna

This paper presents a microstrip 4×8 retrodirective array which consists of two 4×4 sub-arrays. These two 4×4 sub-arrays employ proximity-coupled microstrip ring antennas as the array elements. The design frequency of the ring antenna is 5.8 GHz and the antenna produces voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) and axial ratio less than 1.5 and 1 dB, respectively. The designed 4×8 retrodirective array is tested through electromagnetic (EM) simulation. In the simulation, the plane wave incidents at two different angles (θ t =±30°) for a bistatic radar cross section (RCS).
Plume and Shock Interaction Effects on Sonic Boom in the 1-foot by 1-foot Supersonic Wind Tunnel

The desire to reduce or eliminate the operational restrictions of supersonic aircraft over populated areas has led to extensive research at NASA. Restrictions are due to the disturbance of the sonic boom, caused by the coalescence of shock waves formed by the aircraft. A study has been performed focused on reducing the magnitude of the sonic boom N-wave generated by airplane components with a focus on shock waves caused by the exhaust nozzle plume. Testing was completed in the 1-foot by 1-foot supersonic wind tunnel to study the effects of an exhaust nozzle plume and shock wave interaction. The plume and shock interaction study was developed to collect data for computational fluid dynamics (CFD) validation of a nozzle plume passing through the shock generated from the wing or tail of a supersonic vehicle. The wing or tail was simulated with a wedgeshaped shock generator. This test entry was the first of two phases to collect schlieren images and off-body static pressure profiles. Three wedge configurations were tested consisting of strut-mounted wedges of 2.5- degrees and 5-degrees. Three propulsion configurations were tested simulating the propulsion pod and aft deck from a low boom vehicle concept, which also provided a trailing edge shock and plume interaction. Findings include how the interaction of the jet plume caused a thickening of the shock generated by the wedge (or aft deck) and demonstrate how the shock location moved with increasing nozzle pressure ratio.
Quinidine Interactions With Human Atrial Potassium Channels Developmental Aspects

Abstract —Clinical studies have suggested that quinidine is less effective when used for the treatment of atrial arrhythmias in pediatric patients compared with its clinical effectiveness in the adult patient population. Age-related changes in the cardiac actions of quinidine on action potential duration and interaction with potassium channels in several mammalian species also have been reported. We investigated the effects of postnatal development on quinidine’s interaction with major repolarizing currents ( I to, I Kur, I ns, and I K1) in human atrial myocytes, using the whole-cell configuration of the voltage-clamp technique. Our results indicate that there are age-related changes in both the IC50 for quinidine blockade of I to, as well as the mechanism of quinidine unblocking. In contrast, quinidine was found to inhibit both adult and pediatric I K1 and I Kur in an age-independent manner, whereas the nonselective cation current ( I ns), which contributes to the sustained outward current ( I sus), was insensitive to quinidine. The results from this study help to clarify the electrophysiological mechanism by which quinidine elicits its antiarrhythmic effect in the pediatric and adult human population.
Process variation-aware routing in NoC based multicores

We propose a variation-aware source routing algorithm for a heterogenous NoC where each router has a different operating latency, as a result of process variations. Our proposed scheme computes the best path for each communication, based on the inherent speed of the routers (dictated by process variations) and the current traffic pattern. Our results indicate that employing our proposed routing scheme reduces average packet latencies (our performance metric), in our applications, by up to 28% as compared to the deterministic and adaptive routing algorithms.
Enhancement of electromagnetic field intensity by metallic photonic crystal for efficient upconversion

2D arrays of cylindrical and rectangular gold nanopillars in square and triangular lattice were investigated for maximum field intensity enhancement above the metal dielectric interface. 3D-FDTD method was used for investigation and design of metallic photonic crystal. Photonic crystal was designed for maximum electromagnetic field intensity enhancement in infrared radiation centered at 980 nm wavelength. It was found that gold nanopillars of thickness 70nm, diameter 310nm and periodic in 620nm enhances the electromagnetic intensity by 100 times above the metallic nanopillars by exciting surface plasmon resonance. Enhancement of near-field intensity by two orders of magnitude is the promising way to increase the upconversion of infrared radiation by rare earth doped nanoparticles, such as NaYF 4 :Er,Yb.
Radiation Damage in a Rare-Earth Silicate With the Apatite Structure

The effects of radiation on the rare-earth silicate, Ca2Nd8 (SiO4)6O2, with the apatite structure was investigated using 244Cm doping and alpha, gamma, and electron irradiations. Amorphization of the initially crystalline material was observed to occur only in the Cm-doped material. Alpha irradiation produced measurable lattice expansions, with no tendency toward amorphization. The gamma and electron irradiations produced no measurable effects. The results indicate that the thermal spikes produced by the recoil nuclei emitted in alpha decay are responsible for the observed amorphization; the alpha particles produce isolated defects which contribute little, if at all, to the amorphization process; and ionizing radiation has no measurable effect on this structure.
Precision of pyrosequencing assay to measure LINE-1 methylation in colon cancer, normal colonic mucosa, and peripheral blood cells

Genome-wide DNA hypomethylation plays an important role in epigenomic and genomic instability and colorectal carcinogenesis. DNA methylation in the long interspersed nucleotide element-1, L1 (LINE-1) repetitive element is a good indicator of global DNA methylation level. In addition, LINE-1 hypomethylation in blood cells has been associated with colorectal adenoma risk, and LINE-1 hypomethylation in colorectal cancer is related with prognosis and linearly predicts shorter patient survival. However, no study has comprehensively evaluated the precision of sodium bisulfite conversion and PCR-pyrosequencing to measure LINE-1 methylation. Using 10 paraffin-embedded colon cancers, 5 matched normal colon mucosa, and 5 unrelated peripheral blood buffy coat leukocyte specimens, we enriched tumor DNA by macrodissection and laser capture microdissection. LINE-1 methylation was calculated as an average of 100 * C/(C + T) at 4 CpG sites after bisulfite-PCR-pyrosequencing. The LINE-1 methylation value in colon cancers varied, ranging approximately from 30 to 80. To measure assay precision, we performed bisulfite conversion on seven different DNA specimen aliquots and repeated PCR-pyrosequencing seven times. Run-to-run (between-run) SD ranged from 1.3 to 4.4 (median, 3.0) in macrodissected colon cancers; 1.1 to 10.5 (median, 3.8) in laser capture microdissection specimens; 1.3 to 2.5 (median, 1.9) in normal colon; and 1.5 to 3.4 (median, 1.9) in leukocyte DNA. In conclusion, bisulfite conversion and PCR-pyrosequencing assay can measure LINE-1 methylation in macrodissected colon cancer, normal colon, and blood DNA, and may be useful in clinical and research settings.
Visualizing diffusion tensor MR images using streamtubes and streamsurfaces

We present a new method for visualizing 3D volumetric diffusion tensor MR images. We distinguish between linear anisotropy and planar anisotropy and represent values in the two regimes using streamtubes and streamsurfaces, respectively. Streamtubes represent structures with primarily linear diffusion, typically fiber tracts; streamtube direction correlates with tract orientation. The cross-sectional shape and color of each streamtube represent additional information from the diffusion tensor at each point. Streamsurfaces represent structures in which diffusion is primarily planar. Our algorithm chooses a very small representative subset of the streamtubes and streamsurfaces for display. We describe the set of metrics used for the culling process, which reduces visual clutter and improves interactivity. We also generate anatomical landmarks to identify the locations of such structures as the eyes, skull surface, and ventricles. The final models are complex surface geometries that can be imported into many interactive graphics software environments. We describe a virtual environment to interact with these models. Expert feedback from doctors studying changes in white-matter structures after gamma-knife capsulotomy and preoperative planning for brain tumor surgery shows that streamtubes correlate well with major neural structures, the 2D section and geometric landmarks are important in understanding the visualization, and the stereo and interactivity from the virtual environment aid in understanding the complex geometric models.
Naturally occurring fluctuation in dendritic spine density on adult hippocampal pyramidal neurons

We have used Golgi-impregnated tissue to demonstrate that apical dendritic spine density in CA1 hippocampal pyramidal cells undergoes a cyclic fluctuation as estradiol and progesterone levels vary across the estrous cycle in the adult female rat. We observed a 30% decrease in apical dendritic spine density over the 24-hr period between the late proestrus and the late estrus phases of the cycle. Spine density then appears to cycle back to proestrus values over a period of several days. In contrast, no significant changes in dendritic spine density across the estrous cycle occur in CA3 pyramidal cells or dentate gyrus granule cells. These results demonstrate rapid and ongoing dendritic plasticity in a specific population of hippocampal neurons in experimentally unmanipulated animals.
Human breast cancer associated fibroblasts exhibit subtype specific gene expression profiles

Breast cancer is a heterogeneous disease for which prognosis and treatment strategies are largely governed by the receptor status (estrogen, progesterone and Her2) of the tumor cells. Gene expression profiling of whole breast tumors further stratifies breast cancer into several molecular subtypes which also co-segregate with the receptor status of the tumor cells. We postulated that cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs) within the tumor stroma may exhibit subtype specific gene expression profiles and thus contribute to the biology of the disease in a subtype specific manner. Several studies have reported gene expression profile differences between CAFs and normal breast fibroblasts but in none of these studies were the results stratified based on tumor subtypes. To address whether gene expression in breast cancer associated fibroblasts varies between breast cancer subtypes, we compared the gene expression profiles of early passage primary CAFs isolated from twenty human breast cancer samples representing three main subtypes; seven ER+, seven triple negative (TNBC) and six Her2+. We observed significant expression differences between CAFs derived from Her2+ breast cancer and CAFs from TNBC and ER + cancers, particularly in pathways associated with cytoskeleton and integrin signaling. In the case of Her2+ breast cancer, the signaling pathways found to be selectively up regulated in CAFs likely contribute to the enhanced migration of breast cancer cells in transwell assays and may contribute to the unfavorable prognosis of Her2+ breast cancer. These data demonstrate that in addition to the distinct molecular profiles that characterize the neoplastic cells, CAF gene expression is also differentially regulated in distinct subtypes of breast cancer.
Crustal structure of central Lake Baikal: Insights into intracontinental rifting

This is the published version. Copyright 1976 American Geophysical Union. All Rights Reserved.
How does laparoscopic-assisted hepatic resection compare with the conventional open surgical approach?

Background Laparoscopic-assisted hepatic resection (LAHR) has been described as a safe and reliable means of liver resection for tumors or live-donor hepatectomy. Here we compare the outcomes in paired cohorts between patients undergoing open hepatic resection (OHR) and LAHR. Study Design Two hundred and twelve patients who underwent either OHR or LAHR from March 2004 to July 2011 were analyzed to assess outcomes. During this time period, 124 patients underwent OHR and 88 underwent LAHR. Demographic and outcomes data were assessed. Results In the total patient cohort, mean age found in both surgical arms was similar, as was the mean BMI. In addition, there was no difference in the cohort between those who underwent either minor or major hepatic resections (p = 0.52). Operatively, in the OHR arm the mean duration of the operation was 234 minutes and comparable with LAHR at 238 minutes (p = 0.75). There was also no difference in the mean lesion size in the OHR (5.72 cm) and LAHR (5.37 cm) groups (p = 0.55). Notably, there was no difference in the complication incidence rates, which were 10.5% (OHR) and 6.8% (LAHR) (p = 0.59). However, when analyzing for length of stay, there was a significant difference between the 2 arms; patients in OHR arm had longer stays than those in the LAHR arm (7.59 days vs 6.30 days, respectively; mean difference 1.29 days; 95% CI, 0.08−2.5; p=0.036). Conclusions Although reduced surgical pain, improved cosmesis, and shortened hospital stays have been shown to correlate with laparoscopic abdominal procedures, our study indicates these marked advantages are also conferred to those undergoing LAHR. In addition, these findings demonstrate the use of LAHR and highlight the need for the addition of this technique to the liver surgeon's skill set.
Sovereign Wealth Funds: A Critical Analysis

In recent months, sovereign wealth funds have received much attention and criticism on the world stage. This paper analyzes these funds from a multidimensional perspective, showing their relative size, origins, history, strategies, and what regulatory oversight they have. Next, it examines why countries create sovereign wealth funds, and the criticisms of these funds. Thirdly, it projects the likely behavior of sovereign funds in the near term, explaining that they will create more liquidity and lower costs of capital in emerging equity markets and raise the demand for the services of existing investment managers. These funds will not, however, contribute to higher interest rates in U.S. treasuries or cause direct confrontations between the U.S., the UAE, Russia, and China over fund holdings. These funds may, on the other hand, increase the volatility of developed and emerging markets and create greater demand for openness to foreign direct investment among sovereign wealth fund-holding countries.
On the occurrence of network interpenetration in the wood-isocyanate adhesive interphase

Abstract This paper discusses the chemistry and morphology of the wood-isocyanate adhesive bondline in reference to polymeric methylenebis(phenylisocyanate), pMDI. The typically low molecular weight of pMDI may cause swelling of the wood substrate prior to resin polymerization. These circumstances could lead to an interphase morphology that resembles an interpenetrating polymer network, IPN. In order to test this hypothesis, experiments were performed to determine if liquid pMDI swells and plasticizes yellow poplar ( Liriodendron tulipifera ) wood. It was found that liquid pMDI caused little or no plasticization of yellow poplar wood under the conditions studied. Consequently, the interphase morphology in these samples had little or no network interpenetration. The topic of network interpenetration in the wood-adhesive interphase needs additional study because of the potential utility for improving bondline durability.
DOES WORK PAY AT OLD ER AGES

Encouraging work at older ages is a critical policy goal for an aging society, but many features of the current system of benefits and taxes provide strong work disincentives. The implicit tax rate on work increases rapidly at older ages, approaching 50 percent for some workers by age 70. In addition, by age 65 people can typically receive nearly as much in retirement as they can by working. If older Americans could overcome these barriers and delay retirement, they could substantially improve their economic well-being at older ages. For example, many people could increase their annual consumption at older ages by more than 25 percent by simply retiring at age 67 instead of age 62.
Nitric oxide synthase inhibition reverses arteriolar hyporesponsiveness to endothelin-1 in septic rats

Persistent vasodilation refractory to vasopressor agents is the hemodynamic abnormality characteristic of septic shock. Induction of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) by sepsis-induced cytokines has been hypothesized to play a pathogenetic role in this refractory vasodilation. To evaluate the mechanism of vasodilation in sepsis, we used in vivo videomicroscopy to measure responses of resistance arterioles (15-20 microm) to topical suffusion of the potent vasoconstrictor, endothelin-1 (ET-1), in rat cremaster muscle. Rats made septic by cecal ligation and puncture were compared with controls that underwent sham ligation. Responses to topically suffused ET-1 were assessed in septic and control rats before and after superfusion of the muscle with the NOS inhibitor N(G)-monomethyl-L-arginine (L-NMMA). Sepsis produced a decrease in ET-1-induced vasoconstriction; the ET-1 concentration-response curve was shifted to the right in septic rats (P < 0.05). Contractions at ET-1 concentrations of 1, 10, and 100 nM were 20, 28, and 32%, respectively, of sham controls. Superfusion of the muscle with L-NMMA restored arteriolar responsiveness to ET-1 in the septic rats, significantly increasing arteriolar constriction at 1 and 10 nM. This effect was reversed with superfusion of excess L-arginine (1 mM). This study demonstrates that impaired vasoconstriction in response to ET-1 in resistance arterioles of septic rats in vivo is reversed by NOS inhibition. Taken together with previous studies showing sepsis-induced impairment of vasoconstriction with norepinephrine, a vasopressor with a mechanism of action different from ET-1, these findings suggest a generalized abnormality in the responsiveness of resistance arterioles in sepsis. Reversal of hyporesponsiveness to both of these vasopressor agents by NOS inhibition suggests an important role for nitric oxide as a mediator of refractory vasodilation in sepsis.
Elizabeth M. Elliott, Security with care: restorative justice and healthy societies

(2014). Elizabeth M. Elliott, Security with care: restorative justice and healthy societies. Restorative Justice: Vol. 2, No. 2, pp. 242-244.
EP-04ACTIVATION OF THE IL6/STAT3 PATHWAY IN CHILDHOOD EPENDYMOMA IS ASSOCIATED WITH A PRO-INFLAMMATORY TUMOR MICROENVIRONMENT AND A POOR PROGNOSIS

To aid development of immunotherapy for poor outcome Group A ependymoma (EPN) in children we sought to identify the molecular pathway underlying the adverse pro-inflammatory phenotype associated with this molecular subgroup. We previously showed the importance of immunological factors and that an anti-tumor immunophenotype was critical in survival whereas a pro-inflammatory phenotype was associated with a poor outcome. We contrasted gene expression profiles of patient tumor samples from Group A EPN to the more clinically favorable Group B, identifying potential molecular pathways associated with the Group A immunophenotype. Strikingly, we found a robust expression signature implicating the IL6/STAT3 pathway in Group A tumors. Comparison of transcriptomic profiles of Group A and Group B demonstrated significant overexpression both IL6 and STAT3 in Group A. High overexpression of STAT3 driven IL8 and SOCS3 was also seen in Group A. Western blot analysis of tumor samples from Groups A and B showed a significantly elevated ratio of pSTAT3:STAT3 in Group A, denoting activation of STAT3. Measurement of IL6 secretion from primary ex-vivo tumor cells showed a significantly higher secretion by Group A than Group B. To further investigate the role of the IL6/STAT3 pathway, we utilized a novel EPN cell line (811) with the transcriptome characteristics of Group A. Similar to Group A tumors, 811 secretes high levels of IL-6 and has elevated STAT3 activation. Loss of STAT3 resulted in reduction of downstream targets and apoptosis. The elevated IL6 from 811 induced a contact-independent polarization of myeloid cells to a pro-inflammatory phenotype. CD14+ cells treated with 811 conditioned media showed a significant increase in IL8 secretion. The IL6/STAT3 pathway is active in Group A EPN and is important in maintaining tumor growth in a pro-inflammatory microenvironment. Effective Group A-targeted immunotherapy for children with EPN may require alleviation of this potentially immunosuppressive pathway.
Research Into IO and Informatization

As a new form of organizational structure, network organization has become a focus of attention the theory circles. Many scholars, at home or abroad, have brought up the idiographic models such as Virtual Organization, league of strategy, combo of enterprises, etc. Internet Organization (IO) , as a new type of network organization, can make the great enterprise be well suitable for the new-economy's characters.
Antifertility effect of azastene mediated by prostaglandin.

Azastene, a synthetic steroid of the androstano (2,3-d) isoxazole family, has been shown to terminate pregnancy in the rat and in the primate. Its antifertility effect in the rat is associated with a decrease of progesterone and an increase in prostaglandin F (PGF). Its mechanism of action has been explained by the ability of azastene to inhibit 3 β -hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, thereby critically decreasing progesterone production. However, azastene-induced PGF release could be directly responsible for the decreased progesterone production and hence for its antifertility effect. To test this hypothesis PGF release associated witch azastene administration was blocked by indomethacin. In indomethacin-treated rats, azastene administered at day 10 of pregnancy failed to decrease uterine blood progesterone [100.6±11 (mean±SE) ng/ml (N=10) for azastene-indomethacin–treated rats versus 30.6±4.4 (mean±SE) ng/ml (N=10) for azastene alone; p
SU-D-204-05: Fitting Four NTCP Models to Treatment Outcome Data of Salivary Glands Recorded Six Months After Radiation Therapy for Head and Neck Tumors

Purpose: To estimate the radiobiological parameters of four popular NTCP models that describe the dose-response relations of salivary glands to the severity of patient reported dry mouth 6 months post chemo-radiotherapy. To identify the glands, which best correlate with the manifestation of those clinical endpoints. Finally, to evaluate the goodness-of-fit of the NTCP models. Methods: Forty-three patients were treated on a prospective multiinstitutional phase II study for oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma. All the patients received 60 Gy IMRT and they reported symptoms using the novel patient reported outcome version of the CTCAE. We derived the individual patient dosimetric data of the parotid and submandibular glands (SMG) as separate structures as well as combinations. The Lyman-Kutcher-Burman (LKB), Relative Seriality (RS), Logit and Relative Logit (RL) NTCP models were used to fit the patients data. The fitting of the different models was assessed through the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) and the Odds Ratio methods. Results: The AUC values were highest for the contralateral parotid for Grade ≥ 2 (0.762 for the LKB, RS, Logit and 0.753 for the RL). For the salivary glands the AUC values were: 0.725 for the LKB, RS, Logit and 0.721 for the RL. For the contralateral SMG the AUC values were: 0.721 for LKB, 0.714 for Logit and 0.712 for RS and RL. The Odds Ratio for the contralateral parotid was 5.8 (1.3–25.5) for all the four NTCP models for the radiobiological dose threshold of 21Gy. Conclusion: It was shown that all the examined NTCP models could fit the clinical data well with very similar accuracy. The contralateral parotid gland appears to correlated best with the clinical endpoints of severe/very severe dry mouth. An EQD2Gy dose of 21Gy appears to be a safe threshold to be used as a constraint in treatment planning.
Protein Thiol Redox Signaling in Monocytes and Macrophages.

Abstract Significance: Monocyte and macrophage dysfunction plays a critical role in a wide range of inflammatory disease processes, including obesity, impaired wound healing diabetic complications, and atherosclerosis. Emerging evidence suggests that the earliest events in monocyte or macrophage dysregulation include elevated reactive oxygen species production, thiol modifications, and disruption of redox-sensitive signaling pathways. This review focuses on the current state of research in thiol redox signaling in monocytes and macrophages, including (i) the molecular mechanisms by which reversible protein-S-glutathionylation occurs, (ii) the identification of bona fide S-glutathionylated proteins that occur under physiological conditions, and (iii) how disruptions of thiol redox signaling affect monocyte and macrophage functions and contribute to atherosclerosis. Recent Advances: Recent advances in redox biochemistry and biology as well as redox proteomic techniques have led to the identification of many...
Managing the Patient with Pulmonary Hypertension: Specialty Care Centers, Coordinated Care, and Patient Support

Pulmonary hypertension remains a challenging condition to diagnose and manage. Decentralized care for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) has led to shortcomings in the diagnosis and management of PAH. The Pulmonary Hypertension Association-sponsored Pulmonary Hypertension Care Center program is designed to recognize specialty centers capable of providing multidisciplinary and comprehensive care of PAH. Ideally, Pulmonary Hypertension Care Centers will comanage PAH patients with community-based practitioners and address the growing needs of this emerging population of long-term PAH patients.
Ecological Factors in Human Development.

Urie Bronfenbrenner (1992) helped developmental psychologists comprehend and define “context” as a rich, thick multidimensional construct. His ecological systems theory consists of five layers, and within each layer are developmental processes unique to each layer. The four articles in this section limit the exploration of context to the three innermost systems: the individual plus micro- and macrolayers. Rather than examine both the physical features and processes, the articles tend to focus solely on processes associated with a niche. Processes explored include social identity development, social network dynamics, peer influences, and school-based friendship patterns. The works tend to extend the generalization of extant theory to the developmental experience of various minority group experiences.
Charge transport in a two-dimensional hybrid metal halide thiocyanate compound

Solution-processable organic metal halide compounds, such as methylammonium lead iodide (CH3NH3PbI3), possess unique optical and electronic properties such as long carrier lifetimes and high charge carrier mobility. Here we study a layered, 2-dimensional hybrid halide compound: methylammonium lead thiocyanate iodide ((CH3NH3)2Pb(SCN)2I2). Films deposited from solution are observed to grow with strong preferential alignment of 2-dimensional layers parallel to the substrate. The charge-transport properties of carriers in the 2-dimensional planes of (CH3NH3)2Pb(SCN)2I2 were measured using the contactless electronic characterization technique time-resolved microwave conductivity (TRMC). TRMC measurements show that the sum of the electron and hole charge carrier mobilities in (CH3NH3)2Pb(SCN)2I2 is above 1 cm2 V−1 s−1 and that the carrier lifetime is relatively long.
Plasma l-citrulline concentrations in l-arginine–supplemented healthy dogs

Abstract Introduction To determine whether oral l -arginine increases plasma [ l -citrulline] in dogs. Animals Eleven healthy staff-owned dogs were used in this study. Materials and methods Dogs (n = 3) were given l -arginine (50mg/kg PO q8h) for 7 days, and plasma [ l -arginine] and [ l -citrulline] were analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography at baseline (BL), steady state trough, and 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 4, 6, and 8 h after final dosing on day 7. Eleven dogs were then treated with 100mg/kg l -arginine PO q8h for 7 days, and [ l -arginine] and [ l -citrulline] were measured at BL, steady state trough, and at peak 4 hrs after dosing (T4 hrs). Results – Plasma [ l -arginine] and [ l -citrulline] peaked at T4 hrs on the 50mg/kg dosage. Target outcome, modeled after human study results, of a doubling of [ l -arginine] and a 25–30% increase in [ l -citrulline] from BL were not reached. After the 100mg/kg dosage, plasma [ l -arginine] increased from a BL median of 160.1 μM (range, 100.2–231.4 μM) to a peak of 417.4 μM (206.5–807.3 μM) at T4 hrs, and plasma [ l -citrulline] increased from a BL median of 87.8 μM (59.1–117.1 μM) to peak of 102.2 μM (47.4–192.6 μM) at T4 hrs. Ten of eleven dogs showed a doubling of plasma [ l -arginine] and 4/11 dogs achieved 25–30% or greater increases in plasma [ l -citrulline]. No adverse effects on heart rate or blood pressure were noted. Conclusions – Oral l -arginine dosage of 100mg/kg q8h doubles plasma [ l -arginine] in healthy dogs, but conversion to l -citrulline is quite variable. Further evaluation of this dosage regimen in dogs with pulmonary hypertension is warranted.
Succession Planning Research in the Educational Sector

The chapter contains a rationale for kindergarten through higher education (K12–HE) succession planning research to be grouped in one educational framework, PREPGO (Planning, Recruiting, Empowering, Preparing, Guiding, and Off to work). Much of the literature concerning succession planning in K12 and HE contains information related to educational settings and succession planning in the field of business. After evaluating the research for succession planning in K12 and HE, the PREPGO framework becomes evident. PREPGO is an approach that assists leaders with organizational sustainability and promotes solutions to educational challenges. Promoting organizational sustainability in K12–HE learning areas is achievable with the proven and researched succession-planning methods and strategies gathered from the literature and described here.
Periarticular Soft Tissue Envelope Size and Postoperative Wound Complications Following Total Knee Arthroplasty.

Abstract Background Periprosthetic joint infection following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a serious complication often related to obesity which leads to poor patient outcomes and increased resource utilization. A periarticular soft tissue index (PASTI) may help predict postoperative wound complications than BMI alone. Methods Three hundred seventy-six TKA patients with a preoperative, lateral knee X-ray radiograph and 1 year of follow up were analyzed. We used 2 pairs of soft tissue and bony measurements, one referencing the femur and the other the tibia. A high PASTI was defined as a ratio >3.0. Minor complications involved clinical interventions related to the surgical wound. Major complications involved return to the operating room. Results More minor complications occurred in high PASTI for both tibial (20.9% vs 6.4%; odds ratio 3.89, 95% confidence interval 1.94-7.79, P 30) in both minor (12.4% vs 7.7%, P = .140) and major complications (2.8% vs 3.3%, P = .788) was not statistically different. Conclusion More wound complications occurred in patients with high PASTI, while no difference was seen using BMI. BMI has traditionally approximated patient size, but does not describe variations in body habitus. PASTI is a more reliable and direct way to assess the periarticular soft tissue envelope size, which is associated with postoperative wound complications in the knee.
Comparison of Universal Mental Health Screening to Students Already Receiving Intervention in a Multitiered System of Support

Despite schools increasingly adopting multitiered systems of support (MTSS) for prevention and intervention of mental health concerns, many are slow to adopt universal mental health screening (UMHS...
Clean Intermittent Catheterization in Children

The results of the application of clean intermittent catheterization to children are discussed. Of 34 patients only 7 maintained persistently sterile urine and 52 per cent had more than 1 positive culture in the followup period. Complications of the application of this technique are discussed. The major complication rate was 15 per cent and 6 per cent were considered failures of therapy. Only 1 of the 34 patients demonstrated progression of upper tract disease by excretory urography during the followup period. Intermittent catheterization was found to be effective in preserving renal function as well as helping to improve patient social acceptability.
Borehole Geophysics in Geothermal Exploration

The geophysical logging of geothermal wells is still in its infancy, advantage can be taken of the great technological advances in the field of borehole geophysics as applied to petroleum exploration. The chief differences between these applications are in the temperatures and in the unique lithology of geothermal reservoir rocks. Equipment that will make logs dependably at temperatures greater than 200°C is not widely available, and the interpretation of data obtained at those temperatures in hydrothermally altered igneous and metamorphic rocks is still more an art than a science. Another unique characteristic of most geothermal reservoirs is the importance of fractures in controlling the production of hot water and steam. The log analyst faces a real challenge if borehole geophysics is to play a major role in the exploration, evaluation and development of the world’s geothermal resources in hydrothermally altered, fractured rocks.
Magnetoreception and Biomineralization of Magnetite Fish

Many species from different taxa respond to one or more features of the geomagnetic field (Keeton, 1971, 1972; Lindauer and Martin, 1972; Wiltschko, 1972; Walcott and Green, 1974; Martin and Lindauer, 1977; Quinn, 1980; Wiltschko et al., 1981). These responses fall into two general categories: responses to magnetic field direction and to magnetic field intensity. Magnetic compass responses include the vanishing bearings of homing pigeons (Walcott and Green, 1974) and directional preferences of migratory species in orientation arena experiments (Wiltschko, 1972; Tesch, 1974; Quinn, 1980). The postulated magnetic intensity, or “map”, response (Gould, 1980, 1982; Moore, 1980; Walcott, 1980) refers to the apparent ability of homing pigeons to determine their position to within a kilometer or two using some feature related to geomagnetic field intensity. This response has been inferred from the vanishing bearings and homing speeds of birds released at geomagnetic field anomalies and during magnetic storms (Keeton, 1969, 1971, 1972; Gould, 1980, 1982; Walcott, 1980). Gould (Chapter 12, this volume) provides a full discussion of this research.
ADDITION OF THIOLS OR HYDROGEN SULFIDE TO CARBONYL COMPOUNDS

Abstract Thiols add readily and reversibly to the carbonyl group of aldehydes or ketones to form the hemimercaptals. Hemimercaptals are ordinarily unstable, but can be isolated in certain cases. Under acid catalysis, they commonly react with a second molecule of thiol to produce mercaptals. When an α-hydrogen atom is available on the carbonyl compound, and there is a proper balance of steric and electronic factors, the hemimercaptal may eliminate water to produce an unsaturated sulfide. Addition of 1,2- and 1,3-dithiols to carbonyl compounds leads to the formation of the heterocyclic 1,3-dithiolanes and 1,3-dithianes. Thioxolanes and oxythianes are likewise formed from hydroxythiols. When hydrogen sulfide is added to a carbonyl compound under acid conditions, the reactions follow the same course, but can be much more complicated by the possibility of further reaction of the intermediate hydroxythiols, gem-dithiols and vinyl thiols with the initial carbonyl compound or with themselves. Few examples of hydroxythiols are known, but gem-dithiols have recently been obtained. Hydroxythiols may be intermediates in the formation of trithianes, as well as thiones, when aldehydes and ketones are treated with hydrogen sulfide under acid conditions. The acid-catalyzed addition of hydrogen sulfide to certain ketones has led to the formation of doubly unsaturated sulfides, which undoubtedly arises from vinyl thiol intermediates.
Effect of Circumferential Location of Radial Injection on Rotordynamic Performance of Hybrid Air Foil Bearings

Air foil bearings (AFBs) are introduced as promising bearings for oil-free turbomachinery applications. AFBs provide reliable operation at high speed and high temperature with negligible power loss. Hybrid Air Foil Bearing (HAFB) technology utilizes the radial injection of externally pressurized air into the traditional hydrodynamic AFB’s film thickness through orifices attached to the top foil. Previous studies have reported enhancement in the rotordynamic stability of HAFBs compared to traditional hydrodynamic AFBs. HAFBs have several orifices distributed in the circumferential direction. In this study, the effect of the circumferential location of radial injection on the rotordynamic performance of the rotor-HAFB is studied. Analytical and experimental evaluations of the rotordynamic performance of a rotor supported by two single-pad HAFBs are presented. Parametric studies are conducted using three sets of single-pad HAFBs. The circumferential locations of orifices are different for each set. The presented simulation analyses consist of time-domain orbit simulation and frequency-domain modal analysis. Imbalance responses of rotor-HAFB were measured with various orifice locations and the results agree well with predictions. Comparison of the rotordynamic performance of HAFBs with different orifice configurations demonstrate substantial improvement in rotordynamic stability as well as enhancement in the stiffness and damping coefficients of HAFBs by choosing the best circumferential location for radial injection to control rotor eccentricity and attitude angle.Copyright © 2018 by ASME