cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Abstract 2450: Resistance of CD44+ hepatocellular carcinoma cancer stem cellsto immune effector responses

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. There is little therapy for advanced disease and recurrence rates can be as high as 50% following resection. Evidence in several tumor types suggests that cancer stem cells (CSCs) contribute to tumorigenicity, therapeutic resistance and recurrence, however the HCC CSC phenotype remains to be completely defined. HCC recurrence is influenced by the degree of immune response in the tumor microenvironment. Therefore, we aimed to characterize HCC-CSCs phenotype and investigate the interaction between CSCs and immune cell subsets. To identify a dominant CSC population in HCC, we examined several putative CSC markers, including CD44, CD90, CD133 and EpCAM on primary human resected HCCs (n=6), HCC xenografts (n=2), and HCC cell lines (n=3) using flow cytometry. Cells from all sources consistently showed discrete populations of CD44 + cells (2-40%), while other common CSC markers showed significant heterogeneity. CD44 + cells isolated from HCC xenografts or HepG2 cells by fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) demonstrated enhanced tumorigenic potential with as little as 100 cells implanted into NOD-SCID/IL-2Rg null mice compared to no tumor from 100 CD44 − cells. CD44 + cells were also able to produce heterogenic tumor mass in vivo. Moreover, CD44 + cells demonstrated increased sphere forming capacity in serum free media (2 fold, p + HCC cells were resistant to effector cytokines such as IFNγ and TNFα and effector responses during co-culture with anti-CD3/anti-CD28 activated T cells from healthy donor PBMCs. CD44 + HCC cells had 2-fold increased expression of B7-H1, a co-inhibitory molecule for T cells, when compared to non-CSCs during exposure to activated T cells or effector cytokine IFNγ, suggesting a possible mechanism of resistance to immune effectors in the HCC microenvironment. In conclusion, CD44 discriminates for the HCC CSC as evidenced by CD44 + subset demonstrating enhanced tumorigenicity, sphere forming capacity and resistance to chemotherapeutic agents. CD44 + CSC are also resistant to activated T cells and effector cytokines suggesting that microenvironmental factors related to immune response may be important for HCC recurrence or progression. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 2450. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-2450
How Do You Teach Debugging?: Resources and Strategies for Better Student Debugging (Abstract Only)

"Why doesn't my code work?" Instructors and TAs hear this question day in and day out during introductory computer science courses, and beyond. Students arguably have a harder time learning how to debug their own (and others') code than they do in learning how to plan and write the code in the first place. Debugging strategies are difficult to teach, and there are pros and cons to different debugging methods (e.g., print statements vs. gdb vs. Googling). This BoF will elicit strategies for teaching debugging to CS students, and we will discuss the benefits of introducing certain tools earlier or later in the curriculum. We will also discuss how to assess whether students are able to debug code effectively. All suggestions will be posted on CSTeachingTips.org for dissemination (See tinyurl.com/CSTT-TAs for tips from SIGCSE 2015). We welcome attendance from seasoned and novice instructors, and from teaching assistants.
Effect of Empty Comb on Hoarding Behavior and Honey Production of the Honey Bee

Honey bees, Apis mellifera L., in laboratory cages supplied with either 46.75, 93.50, or 140.25 cm2 of comb surface area (CSA) hoarded 0.105, 0.135, and 0.188 ml of sucrose solution/bee/day. These differences are highly significant. Field colonies of honey bees were supplied with empty honey storage combs having either 4.06 or 1.88 m2 of CSA. Resultant colony weight gains were 51 and 36 kg, respectively. The colonies were then moved to a 2nd apiary location and the CSA treatments were reversed using fresh storage combs. At the 2nd apiary location, 4.06 and 1.88 m2 of CSA resulted in 58 and 47 kg of colony weight gain, respectively. Analysis of variance showed the difference in response to treatment was highly significant. Under both laboratory and field conditions greater CSA resulted in greater nectar gathering by honey bees. These experiments support the hypothesis that empty comb functions as a stimulus of nectar-foraging behavior.
Botulinum Toxin Treatment of Chronic Migraine - A Double Blind Study with a Novel Technique Employing Fewer Injections. (P4.124)

Objective: To report a novel injection technique to treatment of chronic migraines with BoNT. Background: Botulinum Neurotoxins (BoNT) in episodic migraine is ineffectiveness. BoNT in chronic migraine patients has shown statistically significant relief compared to placebo. Injection recommendations have required greater than 31 points of injections. A novel injections technique with fewer injections was proposed in this study. Methods: This is a randomized, prospective study of chronic migraine patients with two consecutive arms (double-blinded, placebo controlled ; open labeled). 22-24 intramuscular injections were administered. Muscles treated: frontalis (20 units/5sites/side); temporalis (30 units/2sites/side); occipitalis (5units/1site/side); cervical region: splenius cervicis, semispinalis capitis, trapezius muscles (45-60units /3-5 sites/side). The overall dosage varied between 200-300 units. Four rating scales were used as measures: (Visual Analog Scale (VAS); Pain Impact Questionnaire (PIQ); Headache Impact Test (HIT-6 TM); Migraine Specific Quality of Life (MSQ). Results: 25 patients were enrolled and randomized. 17 continued in the open label arm. Week 4: Primary outcomes BoNT vs. Placebo: Mean reduction of pain days: 8.67 versus 1.20 days , P=0.0347 (CI: 0.75 to 16.05). Mean reduction of VAS: 1.18 versus 0.17 (not statistically significant). Secondary outcomes BoNT vs. Placebo: 9 of 11 versus 3 of 10 patients were satisfied with treatment (P=0.0300). Measures for HIT sub-score, frequently encounter complaints, favored BoNT (P= 0.0556) . Open label arm 4 weeks post BoNT injection: 58.8[percnt] had reduced headache pain; 23.5[percnt] were unchanged; 17.6[percnt] had worsening. HIT score outcomes: 88.2[percnt] had a reduction; 5.8[percnt] were unchanged; and, 5.8[percnt] had worsening. Upon study completion 76.9[percnt] had a lower HIT compared to baseline; 7.6[percnt] remained unchanged; 15.3[percnt] had worsening. Conclusions: This novel injection technique with fewer injections sites had a statistically significant reduction in headache pain days. Additional studies with a larger samples size is would be justified. Disclosure: Dr. Richardson has nothing to disclose. Dr. Jabbari has received research support from Allergan Inc, Merz Pharmaceuticals, and Ipsen Pharmaceuticals.
The Effect of an All-Ages Bicycle Helmet Law on Bicycle-Related Trauma.

In 2003, Seattle implemented an all-ages bicycle helmet law; King County outside of Seattle had implemented a similar law since 1994. For the period 2000–2010, the effect of the helmet legislation on helmet use, helmet-preventable injuries, and bicycle-related fatalities was examined, comparing Seattle to the rest of King County. Data was retrieved from the Washington State Trauma Registry and the King County Medical Examiner. Results comparing the proportions of bicycle related head injuries before (2000–2002) and after (2004–2010) the law show no significant change in the proportion of bicyclists admitted to the hospital and treated for head injuries in either Seattle (37.9 vs 40.2 % p = 0.75) nor in the rest of King County (30.7 vs 31.4 %, p = 0.84) with the extension of the helmet law to Seattle in 2003. However, bicycle-related major head trauma as a proportion of all bicycle-related head trauma did decrease significantly in Seattle (83.9 vs 64.9 %, p = 0.04), while there was no significant change in King County (64.4 vs 57.6 %, p = 0.41). While the results do not show an overall decrease in head injuries, they do reveal a decrease in the severity of head injuries, as well as bicycle-related fatalities, suggesting that the helmet legislation was effective in reducing severe disability and death, contributing to injury prevention in Seattle and King County. The promotion of helmet use through an all ages helmet law is a vital preventative strategy for reducing major bicycle-related head trauma.
Evaluation on Hygienic Quality of Moon Cake in Mid-Autumn Festival in Zhongshan City

[Objective]To understand the hygienic quality of moon cake in mid-autumn festival in Zhongshan city,provide scientific data for supervision department.[Methods]The detection reports of moon cake in mid-autumn festival in Zhongshan city during 2005—2009 were evaluated and analyzed statistically.[Results]During 2005—2009,676 moon cake samples were detected,and 655 were qualified(98.7%).The types of moon cake included lotus nut paste,wuren,bean paste and others,and the qualified rate of them was 98.3%,95.8%,88.2% and 97.1%,respectively.The unqualified items were benzoic acid,sorbic acid,lead and total bacteria number.Benzoic acid was detected in 14 samples,account for 66.7% of total unqualified samples,sorbic acid,lead and total bacteria numbe was over standard in 2 samples,3 samples and 2 samples,account for 9.5%,14.3% and 9.5%,respectively.[Conclusion]The hygienic quality of moon cake in mid-autumn festival in Zhongshan city is good in recent years.However,there are some problems,such as excessive use of preservatives,which supervision department should pay attention to.It is suggested that relevant departments should strengthen the monitoring and regular sampling inspection,improve quality control and guarantee health of consumer.
Particle swarm optimization for programming deep brain stimulation arrays

Objective. Deep brain stimulation (DBS) therapy relies on both precise neurosurgical targeting and systematic optimization of stimulation settings to achieve beneficial clinical outcomes. One recent advance to improve targeting is the development of DBS arrays (DBSAs) with electrodes segmented both along and around the DBS lead. However, increasing the number of independent electrodes creates the logistical challenge of optimizing stimulation parameters efficiently. Approach. Solving such complex problems with multiple solutions and objectives is well known to occur in biology, in which complex collective behaviors emerge out of swarms of individual organisms engaged in learning through social interactions. Here, we developed a particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm to program DBSAs using a swarm of individual particles representing electrode configurations and stimulation amplitudes. Using a finite element model of motor thalamic DBS, we demonstrate how the PSO algorithm can efficiently optimize a multi-objective function that maximizes predictions of axonal activation in regions of interest (ROI, cerebellar-receiving area of motor thalamus), minimizes predictions of axonal activation in regions of avoidance (ROA, somatosensory thalamus), and minimizes power consumption. Main results. The algorithm solved the multi-objective problem by producing a Pareto front. ROI and ROA activation predictions were consistent across swarms (<1% median discrepancy in axon activation). The algorithm was able to accommodate for (1) lead displacement (1 mm) with relatively small ROI (≤9.2%) and ROA (≤1%) activation changes, irrespective of shift direction; (2) reduction in maximum per-electrode current (by 50% and 80%) with ROI activation decreasing by 5.6% and 16%, respectively; and (3) disabling electrodes (n = 3 and 12) with ROI activation reduction by 1.8% and 14%, respectively. Additionally, comparison between PSO predictions and multi-compartment axon model simulations showed discrepancies of <1% between approaches. Significance. The PSO algorithm provides a computationally efficient way to program DBS systems especially those with higher electrode counts.
New Technology and Techniques in Breast Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction demand was born from the introduction of the mastectomy into the management of breast disease. Since that time, several critical factors have contributed to its continued growth. These factors include not only the increasing occurrence of benign and malignant breast disease but also improved breast diagnostic capabilities and heightened social awareness of the clinical problem.
Mechanically Coupled Reaction-Diffusion Model to Predict Glioma Growth: Methodological Details

Biophysical models designed to predict the growth and response of tumors to treatment have the potential to become a valuable tool for clinicians in care of cancer patients. Specifically, individualized tumor forecasts could be used to predict response or resistance early in the course of treatment, thereby providing an opportunity for treatment selection or adaption. This chapter discusses an experimental and modeling framework in which noninvasive imaging data is used to initialize and parameterize a subject-specific model of tumor growth. This modeling approach is applied to an analysis of murine models of glioma growth.
Comparative evaluation of static and dynamic performance of 1.2-kV SiC power switches

This paper presents a comprehensive experimental evaluation and comparison of several state-of-the-art 1.2-kV silicon carbide (SiC) power switches. Specifically, the latest generation of planar and trench SiC MOSFETs as well as the cascode SiC JFET are characterized and compared with respect to their static and dynamic performance. The switching performance of these devices are evaluated with both their intrinsic body-diode and external SiC Schottky Barrier Diode (SBD) as the freewheeling device. Based on the evaluated performance, the advantages and disadvantages of tested SiC devices are summarized.
Protecting strategically vulnerable markets through inventory pooling: a by-product of coordinated effects induced by horizontal post-merger

This empirical study explores the relationship between inventory fluctuations and coordinated effects induced by horizontal post-mergers in the service industry. Using US domestic airline industry, an industry that commits to a rigid inventory capacity and heavily relies on endogenous mobility barriers in competition, as an example, the investigation analyses 284,610 observations of real time longitudinal population data collected from service frequencies and price dispersions over the four identical periods of September 1 through 30, 2012, 2014, 2016 and 2017. The finding uncovers: 1) no evidence of expected inventory reduction or build-up after mergers; 2) the competition ecology is reshuffled and the stiff system of mobility barriers is facing a new challenge posed by rival strategic groups; 3) since no apparent market expansion is present after the occurrence of three mergers in the industry, rival groups diverted overlapped inventories to newly found strategically vulnerable markets. These results suggest endogenous mobility barriers may hinder the realisation of post-merger synergistic gains or neutralise difficulties of operational consolidation.
Mechanism and Regulation of Protein Turnover in Animal Cells

Publisher Summary Tissue proteins undergo a continual process of renewal, which is referred to as “turnover.” The renewal rates of different proteins, that is, their half-lives, vary over a wide spectrum, even within a given cell type. The levels of tissue proteins are determined not only by their rates of synthesis, but by their rates of degradation as well. Little is known about the sequence of steps in protein removal, the nature of the rate-limiting step or steps in the process, or the mechanisms of their regulation; there is no consensus regarding the nature of the cellular compartmentalization that might be involved. The elucidation of the intracellular mechanisms of protein degradation requires a description of the steps which lead from active protein to its constituent amino acids and their return to the metabolic pool. In view of the fact that the bulk of the proteolytic activity of the cell is in the lysosomes and of the extensive electron microscopic and biochemical evidence indicating the lysosomes to be a site of degradation of a wide variety of cell constituents, the interests in protein turnover have led to concentrate upon the function of these organelles in relation to this process.
Eosinophilic granuloma of the cervical spine: A case report and review of the literature

This is a report of a case of eosinophilic granuloma involving the second cervical vertebra in a 33-year-old woman. There have been 32 case reports in the literature describing eosinophilic granuloma presenting as cervical spine disease. Due to its intimate relation to the central nervous system, the opportunity for neurological sequelae and neurosurgical intervention is common in cervical eosinophilic granuloma. In this report a brief history of eosinophilic granuloma is reviewed and case histories from the literature with cervical spine involvement are summarized. The therapeutic options are described and a recommended protocol for management is outlined.
Multicomponent Mechanochemical Synthesis of Cyclopentadienyl Titanium tert-Butoxy Halides, Cp x TiX y (O t Bu)4-(x+y) (x, y = 1, 2; X = Cl, Br).

Titanium tert-butoxy halides of the formula Cp x TiX y (O t Bu)4-(x+y) (x, y = 1, 2; X = Cl, Br) have been prepared thorough milling the reagents without solvent. In the case of the chloride derivatives, Cp2TiCl2 is used as a starting material; in the case of the bromides, a mixture of LiCp, TiBr4, and Li[O t Bu] is used. The stoichiometric ratios of the starting materials are reflected in the major products of the reactions. Single-crystal X-ray structures are reported for Cp2TiCl(O t Bu), Cp2TiBr(O t Bu), and CpTiBr2(O t Bu), as well as for Cp2TiCl(O i Pr) and a redetermination of Cp2TiCl(OMe). The tert-butoxy derivatives are notable for their nearly linear Ti-O-C angles (>170°) that reflect Ti-O π-bonding, an interpretation supported with density functional theory calculations.
The Temporal Role of Cytokines in Flavivirus Protection and Pathogenesis

The purpose of this review is to feature several cytokine families and describe the roles they play in mediating protection or pathogenesis at the different stages of flavivirus infections. We highlight the similarities and differences in the roles these cytokines play in the different flaviviruses. Cytokines play a role at every stage in flaviviral disease. In the past 3 years, exciting work has been done showing immunomodulatory effects of arthropod saliva on infection, novel roles of cytokines like IFNγ and TNFα in controlling acute flaviviral infection, critical roles of type III IFNs in limiting viral spread particularly in the neurotropic or teratogenic flaviviruses, and the detrimental effects of the inflammasome in recovery from neurotropic flavivirus infection. Disease induced by flaviviral infection is the result of the complex, cytokine-driven interactions between host, virus, and vector and is distinct at each stage of infection. Though flaviviruses are similar in phylogeny, the mechanisms by which they cause disease can be distinct. However, a common theme persists, in that dysregulation of cytokines can cause devastating effects for the host. A thorough understanding of these pathways is a critical step in the development of therapeutic treatments, antivirals, and vaccines.
Taxonomy of Hymenoxys subgenus Picradenia and a Conspectus of the Subgenera of Hymenoxys (Asteraceae: Helenieae: Tetraneurinae)

Hymenoxys (Helenieae, Tetraneurinae) is composed of 28 taxa distributed in 8 subgenera: 1) subg. Hymenoxys, 2) subg. Dugaldia, 3) subg. Macdougalia, 4) subg. Phileozera, 5) subg. Picradenia, 6) subg. Picradeniella, 7) subg. Plummera, and 8) subg. Rydbergia. Eleven taxa comprise Hymenoxys subg. Picradenia.
Women with Preterm Birth Have Evidence of Subclinical Atherosclerosis a Decade After Delivery.

Abstract Background: Women with preterm birth (PTB) have excess risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and metabolic dysregulation after delivery, but vascular mechanisms are poorly understood. We co...
Flipping the Classroom

Abstract The flipped classroom has become an important science pedagogy in which students gain first exposure to new material outside of class and then use class time to do the harder work of assimilating that knowledge. As an educational phenomenon, the flipped classroom has staying power because it relies on two important tools of modern teaching: it can leverage the potential of interactive virtual tools outside of class as well as the known value of active learning approaches in class. The combination has the potential to create powerful learning experiences. This chapter describes the development of the flipped classroom idea, the role it can play in promoting learning, and some of the evidence that improves student performance. The chapter ends with the key elements of the flipped classroom and accompanying practical advice that can help make the flipping experience productive for both faculty and students.
IPI-504: A Novel hsp90 Inhibitor with In Vitro and In Vivo Anti-Tumor Activity.

We have previously shown that inhibitors of the hsp90 molecular chaperone (including geldanamycin, 17-allylamino-17-demethoxy-geldanamycin (17-AAG) and other members of the ansamycin family) potently induce growth arrest and apoptosis of a large panel of drug-sensitive and -resistant MM cell lines, as well as tumor cells freshly isolated from patients with relapsed refractory MM; and sensitize these cells to other pro-apoptotic anti-tumor agents. While multiple phase I clinical trials have shown that biologically active doses of 17-AAG can be administered without significant hsp90-related toxicities, the insolubility of this compound in most conventional clinical solvents, as well as the practical limitations of DMSO-based formulations that were used in the original clinical trials have generated the need to develop more effective and practical approaches to administer 17-AAG to patients. Herein we describe the in vitro and in vivo pre-clinical profile of IPI-504, a novel analog of 17-AAG, which is soluble in aqueous formulations and can bypass key limitations of the DMSO-based formulations for administration of 17-AAG. Our in vitro studies show that IPI-504 has anti-tumor activity against a broad panel of primary MM tumor cells as well as MM cell lines (including cells resistant to cytotoxic chemotherapeutics, proteasome inhibitor bortezomib, thalidomide or its immunomodulatory thalidomide derivatives, and/or Apo2L/TRAIL). Based on hierarchical clustering analyses, logistic and linear regression models, we observed that the profiles of drug sensitivity of MM cells to IPI-504 were consistent with the profiles of sensitivity to 17-AAG. Similarly, IPI-504 triggered a constellation of molecular sequelae that were consistent with hsp90 inhibition by 17-AAG, including suppression of cell surface expression and down-stream signaling (via PI-3K/Akt and Ras/Raf/MAPK) of receptors for IGF-1 and IL-6; decreased intracellular levels of several key kinases, including Akt, Raf, IKK-α; suppressed expression of several intracellular anti-apoptotic proteins (e.g. FLIP, XIAP, cIAP2); leading to tumor cell sensitization to other pro-apoptotic agents (e.g. cytotoxic chemotherapy or PS-341). Importantly, in our mouse model of diffuse MM bone lesions in SCID/NOD mice, IPI-504 (50 mg/kg, i.v. twice weekly) was able to prolong the survival of mice vs. vehicle-treated mice (p<0.01, log-rank test), without significant treatment-related toxicities. These results indicate that hsp90 inhibitors have significant anti-MM activity in vivo, which, coupled with our ex vivo mechanistic and molecular profiling studies, have provided the framework for upcoming clinical trials of this novel class of agents in patients with MM.
Continuous-Flow Left Ventricular Assist Device Survival Improves With Multidisciplinary Approach.

Background Continuous-flow left ventricular assist devices have revolutionized the management of advanced heart failure. Device complications continue to limit survival, but enhanced management strategies have shown promise. This study compared outcomes for HeartMate II recipients before and after implementation of a multidisciplinary continuous support heart team (HTMCS) strategy. Methods Between January 2012 and December 2016, 124 consecutive patients underwent primary HeartMate II implantation at our institution. In January 2015, we instituted a HTMCS approach consisting of (1) daily simultaneous cardiology/cardiac surgery/critical care/pharmacy/coordinator rounds, (2) pharmacist-directed anticoagulation, (3) speed optimization echocardiogram before discharge, (4) comprehensive device thrombosis screening and early intervention, (5) blood pressure clinic with pulsatility-adjusted goals, (6) early follow-up after discharge and individual long-term coordinator/cardiologist assignment, and (7) systematic basic/advanced/expert training and credentialing of ancillary in-hospital providers. All patients completed 1-year of follow-up. Results Demographic characteristics for pre-HTMCS (n = 71) and HTMCS (n = 53) groups, including age (55.8 ± 12.1 versus 52.5 ± 14.1 years, p = not significant), percentage of men (77.5% versus 71.7%, p = not significant), and Interagency Registry for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support class 3 (84.5% versus 83.0%, p = not significant), were comparable. One-year survival was 74.6% versus 100% for the pre-HTMCS and HTMCS groups, respectively (p = 0.0002). One-year survival free of serious adverse events (reoperation to replace device or disabling stroke) was 70.4% versus 84.9% for the pre-HTMCS and HTMCS groups, respectively (p = 0.059). Event per patient-year rates for disabling stroke (0.15 versus 0, p = 0.019), gastrointestinal bleeding (0.87 versus 0.51, p = 0.11), and driveline infection (0.24 versus 0.10, p = 0.18) were lower for the HTMCS group, whereas pump thrombosis requiring device exchange was higher (0.09 versus 0.18, p = 0.14). Conclusions Implementing a comprehensive multidisciplinary approach substantially improved outcomes for recipients of continuous-flow left ventricular assist devices.
Vibronic (pseudo Jahn-Teller) theory of ferroelectricity: Novel aspects and applications

In a semi-review paper, the fundamentals of the vibronic (pseudo Jahn-Teller) theory of ferroelectricity in perovskite crystals of ABO3 type, its main achievements and significant applications, are...
Time course images of cellular injury and recovery in murine brain with high-resolution GRIN lens system

Time course, in vivo imaging of brain cells is crucial to fully understand the progression of secondary cellular damage and recovery in murine models of injury. We have combined high-resolution gradient index lens technology with a model of diffuse axonal injury in rodents to enable repeated visualization of fine features of individual cells in three-dimensional space over several weeks. For example, we recorded changes in morphology in the same axons in the external capsule numerous times over 30 to 60 days, before and after induced traumatic brain injury. We observed the expansion of secondary injury and limited recovery of individual axons in this subcortical white matter tract over time. In another application, changes in microglial activation state were visualized in the penumbra region of mice before and after ischemia induced by middle carotid artery occlusion. The ability to collect a series of high-resolution images of cellular features of the same cells pre- and post-injury enables a unique opportunity to study the progression of damage, spontaneous healing, and effects of therapeutics in mouse models of neurodegenerative disease and brain injury.
Effects of residual carbon content on sintering shrinkage, microstructure and mechanical properties of injection molded 17-4 PH stainless steel

Carbon contamination from the thermoplastic binder is an inherent problem with the metal powder injection molding process. Residual carbon in the compacts after debinding has a strong impact on the sintering process, microstructure, and mechanical properties. In this study, injection molded 17-4 PH stainless steel was debound to two levels of residual carbon, 0.203 ± 0.014 wt% and 0.113 ± 0.008 wt%, by elevating the debinding temperature from 450°C to 600°C. Dilatometry in H2 atmosphere shows that the 600°C-debound compacts shrink much faster than those debound at 450°C when the sintering temperature rises to over 1200°C. Density measurements for tensile bars sintered between 1260°C and 1380°C confirm the beneficial effect of low residual carbon content on sintering shrinkage. Quantitative metallography reveals that more δ-ferrite forms along austenite grain boundaries during sintering of the 600°C-debound compacts. In both samples, density gradients across the compact section are correlated with the residual carbon content and corresponding δ-ferrite formation. Finally, tensile tests show that the 600°C-debound compacts have lower tensile strength but higher ductility than those debound at 450°C. The relevant mechanisms are discussed with a focus on the effects of residual carbon content, δ-ferrite amount, and porosity.
Inactivation of Escherichia coli succinic thiokinase by selective oxidation of thiol groups by permanganate.

Succinic thiokinase from Escherichia coli was rapidly inactivated by permanganate ion at 25° and 0°. On the basis of the cysteic acid content of hydrolysates of treated protein, oxidation of 3 sulfhydryl groups appeared to effect total loss of thiokinase activity. However, titration of the same protein samples revealed that 4 important sulfhydryl groups (a fraction of which was possibly in disulfide form) were more likely oxidized during the inactivation process. Significant protection of the enzyme against permanganate inactivation was obtained by the following additions: ATP-Mg2+ and succinate (51%); desulfo-CoA alone (53%); and ATP-Mg2+, succinate, and desulfo-CoA (93%). No protection was observed when either inorganic phosphate or arsenate was added.
Design and Development of a Novel Distance Learning Telementoring System Using Off-the-Shelf Materials and Software.

OBJECTIVE To design and develop a distance learning (DL) system for the transference of laparoscopic surgery knowledge and skill constructed from off-the-shelf materials and commercially available software. INTRODUCTION Minimally invasive surgery offers significant benefits over traditional surgical procedures, but adoption rates for many procedures are low. Skill and confidence deficits are two of the culprits. DL combined with simulation training and telementoring may address these issues with scale. MATERIALS AND METHODS The system must be built to meet the instruction requirements of a proven laparoscopic skills course (Top Gun). Thus, the rapid sharing of multimedia educational materials, secure two-way audio/visual communications, and annotation and recording capabilities are requirements for success. These requirements are more in line with telementoring missions than standard distance learning efforts. RESULTS A DL system with telementor, classroom, and laboratory stations was created. The telementor station consists of a desktop computer and headset with microphone. For the classroom station, a laptop is connected to a digital projector that displays the remote instructor and content. A tripod-mounted webcam provides classroom visualization and a Bluetooth® wireless speaker establishes audio. For the laboratory station, a laptop with universal serial bus (USB) expander is combined with a tabletop laparoscopic skills trainer, a headset with microphone, two webcams and a Bluetooth® speaker. The cameras are mounted on a standard tripod and an adjustable gooseneck camera mount clamp to provide an internal and external view of the training area. Internet meeting software provides audio/visual communications including transmission of educational materials. CONCLUSION A DL system was created using off-the-shelf materials and commercially available software. It will allow investigations to evaluate the effectiveness of laparoscopic surgery knowledge and skill transfer utilizing DL techniques.
The effect of sit-stand schedules on office work productivity: A pilot study.

Background Sit-stand workstations have been introduced in the workplaces to address the adverse sedentary effect inherent to typical office jobs. Existing field or laboratory studies showed that standing interventions are not a detriment to work productivity or performance. The effect of gradient standing proportion on these measures is still unknown. Objective The current naturalistic pilot study aimed to examine the controlled sit-stand ratio effect on office performances. Methods Eleven musculoskeletal symptom free office employees from a large government agency volunteered in this study. They were all equipped with electronic sit-stand desks. Computer usage (N=11) and productivity (N=3) were collected using software and organizational metrics, respectively, for four typical workdays of four different sit-stand ratios (7 : 1, 3 : 1, 2 : 1, and 1 : 1). Results There were no statistically significant schedule effects on any computer usage measures. While not significant, time using computer, keystrokes, word count, and keyboard errors were all less as standing time increased. Sit-stand ratio and job productivity did not observe a clear cause and effect relationship. Conclusions The amount of time spent standing in typical office jobs might not affect computer usage and productivity. Further study with a larger sample is needed for a stronger evidence.
Spectral Discrimination Of Soil Types And Sparse Vegetation

Simple spectral measures can be effective in delineating useful image details, but can be frustratingly resistant to differentiating subtle differences. For example, the NDVI is broadly effective for characterizing vegetation density, but is difficult to use for delineating bare soil and emergent vegetation. In such cases, an approach tailored to a specific application may be much more effective. In this paper, a pair of normalized difference indices are shown to provide a discrimination among several soil types, and also enhances the capacity for delineating emergent vegetation.
Vascular α1-Adrenergic Receptor Responsiveness in Masked Hypertension.

BACKGROUND Masked hypertension (nonhypertensive in the clinic setting but hypertensive outside the clinic during wakefulness) is characterized by increased blood pressure in response to physical and emotional stressors that activate the sympathetic nervous system (SNS). However, no studies have assessed vascular reactivity to a pharmacological SNS challenge in individuals with masked hypertension. METHODS We analyzed data from 161 adults aged 25 to 45 years (mean ± standard deviation age 33 ± 6 years; 48% were African American and 43% were female). Participants completed ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, and a standardized α 1-adrenergic agonist phenylephrine test that determines the dose of phenylephrine required to increase a participant's mean arterial pressure by 25 mm Hg (PD25). RESULTS Twenty-one participants were considered to have masked hypertension (clinic systolic blood pressure (SBP) <140 and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) <90 mm Hg but awake SBP ≥135 or DBP ≥85 mm Hg), 28 had sustained hypertension (clinic SBP ≥140 or DBP ≥90 mm Hg and awake SBP ≥135 or DBP ≥85 mm Hg), and 106 had sustained normotension (clinic SBP <140 and DBP <90 mm Hg and awake SBP <135 and DBP <85 mm Hg). After multivariable adjustment, the mean (±SE) PD25 was less in participants with masked hypertension compared with their counterparts with sustained normotension (222.1 ± 33.2 vs. 328.7 ± 15.0; P = 0.012), but similar to that observed in subjects with sustained hypertension (254.8 ± 31.0; P =0.12). CONCLUSIONS Among young and middle-aged adults, masked hypertension is associated with increased vascular reactivity to a SNS challenge, which may contribute to elevated awake BPs as well as to increased cardiovascular disease risk.
Intrathoracic Muscle Flap Transposition for the Management of Chronic Pulmonary Aspergillosis.

Summary Background The management of chronic pulmonary aspergillosis remains a challenge for thoracic and reconstructive surgeons. Different management options have been proposed with no consensus regarding the best treatment modality. The goal of this study is to report our experience with the use of intrathoracic muscle flaps for the management of pulmonary aspergillosis. Methods We retrospectively reviewed all patients who underwent intrathoracic muscle flap transposition for the management of pulmonary aspergillosis between 1990 and 2010. Demographics, surgical characteristics, and treatment outcomes were collected and analyzed. Results A total of 39 patients who underwent 48 muscle flaps were identified. The majority were classified as ASA 3 (n=30, 77%) or ASA 4 (n=8, 21%). Serratus anterior was the most common flap used (n=34), followed by latissimus dorsi (n=6) and pectoralis major (n=5). Flap loss was encountered in three (8%) patients (2 partial, 1 total). Bronchopleural fistula and empyema comprised the two most common intrathoracic complications (26%, 29% respectively). Median follow-up was 33 months (range, 0–216). Successful treatment was achieved in 77% of patients, while operative mortality was 23%. Conclusion The use of intrathoracic muscle flaps can be a helpful adjunct to surgical resection in the treatment of chronic pulmonary aspergillosis with low rates of flap loss.
The Reactive Roots of Retribution: Normative Implications of the Neuroscience of Punishment

Normative theories of punishment explain why punishment is morally justified, and these justifications usually appeal to two distinct considerations: retributive and consequentialist. In general, retributivist considerations are backward-looking and thus justify punishment in terms of “just deserts.” By contrast, consequentialist considerations are forward-looking and thus justify punishment in terms of its good effects. This chapter contends that neuroscience should influence how we think about normative theories of punishment. First, it demonstrates how neuroscientific categories can distinguish the processes that guide human punishment decisions, especially decisions guided by retributive considerations. Second, this work in neuroscience supports an evolutionary debunking argument: Evolutionary explanations of these processes are a defeater for desert-based intuitions about punishment and the considerations that support it. More precisely, these intuitions are not good evidence for normative theories of punishment. This argument may have implications for a range of non-consequentialist principles and intuitions that extend beyond the domain of punishment. This chapter extends the evolutionary debunking argument to a broader set of intuitions, in particular, ones that are influenced by action-based behavior selection processes.
Hysteroscopic-Assisted Vaginal Myomectomy for a 12cm Fibroid: A Case Report

Study Objective To demonstrate the importance of resecting large intracavitary fibroids using a combination of minimally invasive techniques, particularly vaginal morcellation and hysteroscopy. Design Video case presentation. Setting A major urban teaching institution. In the operating room, the patient was placed in dorsal lithotomy. Patients or Participants 22-year-old G0 with a 12 cm intracavitary fibroid causing heavy vaginal bleeding with a starting hemoglobin of 7.3 g/dL. She was a Jehovah's Witness and would only accept a blood transfusion in the case of an absolute emergency. Interventions The patient was admitted to the hospital and underwent a gel foam uterine artery embolization preoperatively. She was also given preoperative misoprostol and tranexamic acid. She underwent a transvaginal myomectomy with hysteroscopic assistance. Measurements and Main Results Complete resection of the large intracavitary fibroid was achieved using the combined vaginal and hysteroscopic myomectomy techniques demonstrated in this video. Minimal blood loss, decreased length of stay, reduced recovery time, and decreased need for future surgery were also achieved in this case. Conclusion The preoperative blood loss reduction strategies and combined vaginal and hysteroscopic surgical approaches minimized blood loss, hospital stay, recovery time, and need for future surgery in this patient. Additionally, a blood transfusion was avoided in a patient who is Jehovah's Witness. This video demonstrates that even large intracavitary fibroids can be resected using minimally invasive techniques.
Child welfare workers’ experiences of client-perpetrated violence: Implications for worker mental health

Abstract Background Workforce turnover is a challenge for 90% of child welfare agencies in the U. S. Worker exposure to violence is important to consider within the context of high turnover levels. Objectives The objectives of this study include exploring the prevalence of three types of client-perpetrated violence (CPV) and the influence of each type of CPV on mental health outcomes of workers. Participants and setting Thisstudy used data from a statewide, longitudinal study of the child welfare workforce after 18-months of employment (n = 657). Methods In addition to descriptive and bivariate analyses, a three-step hierarchical linear regression was used to examine the influence of each type of CPV on depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Results The number of workers who experienced each type of CPV varied, with non-physical violence (80.1%) being the most reported form of CPV, followed by threat (47.2%), and then assault (5.8%). Multiple regression results indicated that threats have a significant relationship with workers’ reported PTSD symptomatology in this sample when controlling for personal trauma experienced in the last year (B = 1.39, p = .01). Neither non-physical violence nor assault had a significant relationship with depressive, anxiety, or PTSD symptomatology when controlling for personal trauma. Conclusions At least one form of CPV was experienced by a majority of early-career child welfare workers, however, only experiencing threats was significantly associated with any of the mental health outcomes. This study provides additional insight into the concepts of CPV and the mental health of child welfare workers. Implications for training and organizational responses to CPV are discussed.
An optimal probe testing algorithm for the connectivity verification of MCM substrates

The k-probe testing methodology is an effective approach to detect open and short faults in MCM substrates. An algorithm which generates the minimum number of tests for complete open fault coverage is proposed. For k equals two, the algorithm is able to reduce the test size by up to 50% compared with that generated by an ordinary approach. A multidimensional traveling salesman problem formulation is developed to optimize probe routes. The approach has been tested on substrate testers and has achieved excellent results. >
Partial reconfiguration of FPGA mapped designs with applications to fault tolerance and yield enhancement

Field-programmable gate arrays have the potential to provide reconfigurability in the presence of faults. In this paper, we have investigated the problem of partially reconfiguring FPGA mapped designs. We present a maximum matching based algorithm to reconfigure the placement on an FPGA with little or no impact on circuit performance. Experimental results indicate the algorithm works well for both fault tolerance and reconfigurable computing applications. We also present the motivation and feasibility of using a similar approach for dynamic circuit reconfigurability.
A home play and occupational program for the bedfast child; the counterpane course.

Many children ill at home or in hospitals are denied the advantage of a planned recreational program. A course has been devised which is complete with adequate instruction books and materials suitable for children 7 to 12 years of age.
Energy-quality tradeoffs for target tracking in wireless sensor networks

We study the tradeoffs involved in the energy-efficient localization and tracking of mobile targets by a wireless sensor network. Our work focuses on building a framework for evaluating the fundamental performance of tracking strategies in which only a small portion of the network is activated at any point in time. We first compare naive network operation with random activation and selective activation. In these strategies the gains in energy-savings come at the expense of increased uncertainty in the location of the target, resulting in reduced quality of tracking. We show that selective activation with a good prediction algorithm is a dominating strategy that can yield orders-of-magnitude energy savings with negligible difference in tracking quality. We then consider duty-cycled activation and show that it offers a flexible and dynamic tradeoff between energy expenditure and tracking error when used in conjunction with selective activation.
Supply Chain Management and the Internet

The Internet increases the quantity and expands the richness of information in real time to many more participants in the supply chain and raises the importance and value of information in supply chain management. The ability to create supply chain visibility, that is, to “see across the supply chain,” extends the scope of management options across all firms in the supply chain, and contributes to reductions in costs and improvements in service. Firms are now able to integrate this information to mitigate the bullwhip effect, increase the speed of operations, and improve service. Firms must adopt new collaborative business models—based on creating an extended, real-time enterprise—to achieve these efficiency gains. This requires that managers learn how to operate in a collaborative environment with an abundance of shared information, and this means resolving problems among supply chain partners that impede successful collaboration. Detailed case studies of Nortel, Cisco, Dell, and NMS illustrate these ideas. Keywords: collaborative environment; e-procurement; extended enterprise; push/pull strategies; supply chain integration; supply chain management
Results from PEP-4 TPC

Spatial resolution and dE/dx resolution for the PEP-4 TPC have been measured in a beam environment at PEP. Preliminary results are reported on event configuration studies, on particle fractions and inclusive cross sections, and on charge and multiplicity correlations in rapidity space.
Gastric acidity in apparently healthy individuals.

1. Gastric data, including maximum total acidity, maximum free hydrochloric acid, the time of occurrence of each, and the shape of curve of total acidity have been presented for 50 apparently healthy subjects. 2. Similar gastric data obtained by repeated analyses on 13 apparently healthy subjects are also included. 3. Comparisons have been drawn between the socalled normal values listed in modern textbooks and those actually obtained from the two groups of apparently healthy subjects.
OVERCOMING PATRIARCHAL CONSTRAINTS: The Reconstruction of Gender Relations Among Mexican Immigrant Women and Men

This article examines how gender shapes the migration and settlement experiences of Mexican immigrant women and men. The article compares the experiences of families in which the husbands departed prior to 1965 to those in which the husbands departed after 1965 and argues that the lengthy spousal separations altered (albeit differentially for each group) patterns of patriarchal authority and the traditional gendered household division of labor. This induced a trend toward more egalitarian conjugal relations upon settlement in the United States. Examining the changing contexts of migration illuminates the fluid character of patriarchy's control in Mexican immigrant families.