cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
179 OVEREXPRESSION OF THE 5HT3 RECEPTOR AND PRODUCTION OF LIPOPOLYSACCHARIDE-INDUCED INTERLEUKIN-1BETA CYTOKINE.

Neurogenesis, the growth of new neural cells, occurs primarily in the hippocampus and can be seen throughout the life span. Proper progression of neurogenic processes have been linked to protection from depression and improved learning and memory. The 5-HT3 overexpressing (5HT3-OE) mouse model has been demonstrated to have reduced stress, reduced learned helpless behavior (a measure of depression), and improved performance in fear-conditioned learning tasks. More recently, these mice have been shown to have increased survival of new neurons compared to their wild-type counterparts. Changes in neurogenesis are followed using a series of daily injections of a compound, 5 bromo2′deoxyuridine (BrdU). Most often, BrdU is prepared in a standard saline solution that has not been specifically treated to eliminate lipopolysaccharides (LPS). Lipopolysaccharides are known to be present in most water sources and multiple injections of solutions containing LPS could induce peripheral inflammatory state, which might impact neurogenesis and the fate of new neuronal cells. In this study we compared the effect of BrdU prepared in standard saline with that of LPS-free saline on the production of the inflammatory cytokine, IL-1β (interleukin 1beta) in the plasma from 5-HT3 overexpressing mice and their wild-type counterparts. A 7-day regimen of BrdU injection with the standard solutions produced a significant increase in IL-1β in the plasma from wild-type mice compared to plasma taken from the wild-type mice injected with the LPS-free BrdU solutions. Overexpression of the 5HT3 receptor appeared to protect mice from the injection mediated increase in IL-1β. These findings suggest that the 5HT3-OE mice may have a natural resistance to infection and may suggest a mechanism for the increased neuronal survival seen in these mice. Further, these studies highlight the importance of using LPS-free solutions when multiple injection regimens are planned.
Optimal Allocation of FACTS Devices by using multi-Objective Optimal Power Flow and Genetic Algorithms

The introduction of the flexible AC transmission system (FACTS) in the power system reduces the losses, reduces the cost of the generation, improves the stability and also improves the load capability of the system. Some application of the Flexible AC transmission system (FACTS) technologies to existing high voltage power system has proves the use of FACTS technology may be a cost effective option for power delivery system enhancement. Amongst various power electronic devices unified power flow controller (UPFC) may be considered to be a capable of regulating the power flow and minimizing the power loss simultaneously. Since for the cost effective application of the FACTS technology a proper selection of the number and the placement of these devices is required. The main aim of this paper is to propose the methodology based on the genetic algorithm, able to identify the optimal number and the location of the UPFC devices in an assigned power system network for maximizing system capabilities. In order to validate the usefulness of the approach suggested here is , a case study using a IEEE 30-bus power system is presented and discussed.
Implementing capabilities-based quality management and marketing strategies to improve business performance

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to study the impact of successfully coordinating infrastructural capabilities, such as technology, and structural capabilities, such as people, on the performance of service businesses. Effective coordination of these two types of capabilities is shown to impact the implementation of quality management practices and the design of marketing strategy, both of which when utilized properly, lead to enhanced organizational performance. Design/methodology/approach The authors surveyed retail banking firms for this study to analyze empirical data on infrastructural and structural capabilities. Results were corroborated on the basis of in-depth interviews with several banking managers to provide real world verification of the findings. Findings Results indicate that both infrastructural and structural capabilities positively impact the design of marketing strategy, while only structural capabilities impact the implementation of quality management practices. Both, successfully implemented quality management ideals and a well-designed marketing strategy, are shown to enhance overall organizational performance. Research limitations/implications Research was conducted on a specific sector of the service industry, the banking sector. Also, the relatively small size of the study sample may have impacted the outcome of research applicability in some large businesses. Continuously emerging financial regulations could not be incorporated in the study. On the positive side, strong managerial feedback provides guidance toward adopting the study results, and lays the foundation for future research. Originality/value As today’s rapidly evolving society pushes people out of service encounters, replacing them with efficient and cost-saving technology, roles of both the people and the technology in an organization must be fully understood. This paper shows that, despite the exponential growth of technological innovation, both people and technology are critical to enhancing organizational performance through sound quality management practices and supportive marketing strategies.
Writing reaction mechanisms: the use of site-specific curly arrows as an aid to comprehension

Depicting the mechanism, the step-by-step path followed by a reaction, has evolved to also indicate the movement of electrons during each step through the use of curly arrows. The use of convention...
Elucidating the Irreversible Mechanism and Voltage Hysteresis in Conversion Reaction for High-Energy Sodium–Metal Sulfide Batteries

Irreversible electrochemical behavior and large voltage hysteresis are commonly observed in battery materials, in particular for materials reacting through conversion reaction, resulting in undesirable round-trip energy loss and low coulombic efficiency. Seeking solutions to these challenges relies on the understanding of the underlying mechanism and physical origins. Here, this study combines in operando 2D transmission X-ray microscopy with X-ray absorption near edge structure, 3D tomography, and galvanostatic intermittent titration techniques to uncover the conversion reaction in sodium–metal sulfide batteries, a promising high-energy battery system. This study shows a high irreversible electrochemistry process predominately occurs at first cycle, which can be largely linked to Na ion trapping during the first desodiation process and large interfacial ion mobility resistance. Subsequently, phase transformation evolution and electrochemical reaction show good reversibility at multiple discharge/charge cycles due to materials' microstructural change and equilibrium. The origin of large hysteresis between discharge and charge is investigated and it can be attributed to multiple factors including ion mobility resistance at the two-phase interface, intrinsic slow sodium ion diffusion kinetics, and irreversibility as well as ohmic voltage drop and overpotential. This study expects that such understandings will help pave the way for engineering design and optimization of materials microstructure for future-generation batteries.
TIME VARYING EFFECT OF TOTAL SCAR ON MORTALITY IN PATIENTS WITH CARDIOMYOPATHY UNDERGOING CARDIAC RESYNCHRONIZATION THERAPY

Background: Cardiac re-synchronization therapy (CRT) is a proven therapy in patients (pts) with cardiomyopathy (CM). In these pts, the presence of myocardial scar (Sc), by cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR), is a poor prognostic factor. We sought to assess the effect of Sc on survival in pts
What Promotes Online Group-Buying? A Cross-Cultural Comparison Study between China and the United States

ABSTRACTConsidering the universal prosperity of online group-buying (OGB), this research study used online surveys to gauge the impact of perceived risk, opinion seeking, and hedonistic/recreational and brand conscious decision-making styles on consumers' OGB intention in two diametrically distinguished countries—China and the United States. The research findings indicated both cultural similarities and differences in the mechanisms underlying Chinese and American consumers' OGB intention. Perceived risk emerged as the most important predictor in the U.S. data while brand consciousness was the key driver of Chinese consumers' OGB intention. Promotion and management implications based on the research findings are also presented.
Floating Point Tangent Implementation for FPGAs

This paper presents an implementation of the floating-point (FP) tangent function, optimized for an FPGA containing hard floating point (HFP) DSP Blocks. This function inputs values in the interval [-π/2,π/2], uses the IEEE-754 single-precision (SP) format, and has an accuracy conforming to OpenCL requirements. The presented architecture is based on a combination of mathematical identities and properties of the tangent function in FP. The resultant design outperforms generic polynomial approximation methods targeting the same resource utilization spectrum, and provides better resource trade-offs than classical CORDIC-based implementations. The presented work is widely available as part of the Intel DSP Builder Advanced Blockset.
Ventilation and energy performance of partitioned indoor spaces under mixing and displacement ventilation

Large variation in indoor air quality (IAQ) and thermal comfort can occur in partitioned office spaces due to heterogeneous air mixing. However, few published studies examined IAQ, thermal comfort, and energy performance of partitioned occupied spaces, which are commonly found in today’s buildings. The objective of this study is to evaluate indoor environmental quality and air conditioning performance of a partitioned room under two typical ventilation modes: (1) mixing ventilation and (2) displacement ventilation. For a total of six representative air-conditioning scenarios, three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations are performed to examine temperature distribution, ventilation effectiveness, energy consumption, and local thermal comfort for two partitioned spaces. Simulation results indicate that temperature distribution in a partitioned room is a strong function of ventilation strategy (mixing vs. displacement), but marginally affected by diffuser arrangements. Local age-of-air (air freshness) significantly varies with both diffuser arrangement and ventilation strategy. Regarding energy consumption, displacement ventilation can achieve an indoor set-point temperature in the partitioned spaces about two times faster than mixing ventilation. Under mixing ventilation, the time to achieve a set-point temperature was notably reduced when each partitioned space is served by its own diffuser. For the same supply airflow rate, displacement ventilation can generate local draft risk at ankle level, while mixing ventilation may result in a draft sensation in wider areas around an occupant. Overall, the results suggest that mixing ventilation system can save energy if each partitioned zone is served by its own diffuser such as a multi-split air conditioning. However, when multiple partitioned zones are served by only one diffuser, displacement ventilation is more energy-efficient and can achieve higher ventilation effectiveness than mixing ventilation.
Behavior Therapists Look at the Impact of an Autistic Child on the Family System

A child is born. He is the first son of a man and a woman who were married for 3 years before they planned this conception, and who were delighted when the wife became pregnant. Throughout the pregnancy the husband and wife shared their dreams of what life in a family would be like and the multitude of happy possibilities for the child’s future. They decorated a room—in pale yellow and green so that it would suit a boy or a girl—and began the process of rearranging their lives to accommodate a third person. As they envisioned their life with a child, the couple found themselves drawn even closer than in the past. This infant was to be a tangible sign of the bond of love that held them together. The man, sometimes still impatient with the failings of his own parents, found himself mellowing as he began to contemplate his role as a father. The woman, feeling herself now well beyond the separation process of adolescence, was able to enjoy her parents more than she had in years.
An Argon–Oxygen Covalent Bond in the ArOH+ Molecular Ion

The OH+ cation is a well-known diatomic for which the triplet (3 Σ- ) ground state is 50.5 kcal mol-1 more stable than its corresponding singlet (1 Δ) excited state. However, the singlet forms a strong donor-acceptor bond to argon with a bond energy of 66.4 kcal mol-1 at the CCSDT(Q)/CBS level, making the singlet ArOH+ cation 3.9 kcal mol-1 more stable than the lowest energy triplet complex. Both singlet and triplet isomers of this molecular ion were prepared in a cold molecular beam using different ion sources. Infrared photodissociation spectroscopy in combination with messenger atom tagging shows that the two spin isomers exhibit completely different spectral signatures. The ground state of ArOH+ is the predicted singlet with a covalent Ar-O bond.
Electronic and vibrational spectroscopy studies of PffBT4T π-conjugated donor–acceptor copolymer

We used a variety of optical spectroscopies to investigate the charge excitations and correlated infrared (IR)-active and Raman-active vibrations in poly[(difluoro-benzothiadiazol-diyl)-alt-(di(2-octyldodecyl)-quaterthiophen-diyl)], PffBT4T, a π-conjugated donor–acceptor (DA) copolymer, which, when blended with fullerene PCBM molecules, serves as an active layer in high-performance photovoltaic solar cells. The applied optical spectroscopies in films of pristine PffBT4T and PffBT4T/PCBM blend include absorption, photoluminescence, electroabsorption, photoinduced absorption (PA), and resonant Raman scattering. We found that the PffBT4T copolymer chain contains 11 strongly coupled Raman-active vibrational modes, which are renormalized upon photogeneration of charge polarons onto the chain. As the lower energy polaron absorption band overlaps with the renormalized vibrational modes, they appear in the PA spectrum as antiresonance (AR) lines superposed onto the induced polaron absorption band. We show that the Raman scattering, doping induced, and photoinduced AR spectra in PffBT4T are well explained by the amplitude mode model (AMM), where a single vibrational propagator describes the renormalized Raman modes and their related photoinduced AR intensities in detail. Surprisingly, we found that two of the IR-active modes in the pristine copolymer must be included in the AMM propagator for explaining the complete photoinduced AR spectrum. This feature is unique to DA-copolymers and indicates that some intrachain C2v symmetry breaking occurs because of the different electron affinities of the donor and acceptor moieties.
Molecular insights on the interfacial and transport properties of supercritical CO2/brine/crude oil ternary system

Abstract In this study, we conducted a series of molecular dynamics simulations to investigate the effect of supercritical carbon dioxide (sc-CO2) on the interfacial and transport properties of brine/crude oil at the reservoir conditions. We also studied the interfacial behavior of asphaltenes in presence of CO2. Crude oil was resembled by several hydrocarbons which are hexane, heptane, octane, nonane, cyclohexane, cycloheptane, benzene and toluene. The results showed that CO2, aromatics and asphaltenes accumulate at the interface at low CO2 mole fraction, however, as CO2 mole fraction increases, the relative density, the ratio of the density at the interface to the bulk density, decreases for both CO2 and aromatics. The decrease in CO2 relative density is due to the amount of CO2 dissolved in the oil bulk, which increases as CO2 mole fraction increase. It also found that CO2 displaces the oil molecules away from the interface, thus the relative density of aromatics decreases. Interestingly, it was found that as CO2 mole fraction increase, it enhances the face-to-face stacking between asphaltene molecules as noticed from the radial distribution function calculations. CO2 also force some asphaltene molecules to leave the interface and being dissolved and aggregated in the oil bulk. It also found that as CO2 mole fraction increased in the system, it dilutes the interface, penetrates to the water phase, forms hydrogen bonds with water and due to these effects, it reduces the interfacial tension of brine/crude oil system. The diffusivity of supercritical CO2/brine/crude oil system was also increased as a function of CO2 mole fraction. This study provides insights of the underlying interfacial properties from molecular level for a more realistic system of brine/crude oil.
Keynote Address: AIDS: A Classical Public Health Problem in Modern Guise

It’s very difficult to talk on the subject of AIDS. I can’t think of anything that’s more talked about these days. To say anything new is almost beyond thinking.
The Effect of a High Intake of Tartaric Acid on Urinary and Plasma Oxalate

The metabolism of tartaric acid in man has not yet been fully elucidated. Finkle1 concluded from his studies that parenteral tartrate appears unchanged in the urine. Studies by Chadwick et al2 clearly demonstrated partial metabolism of sodium tartrate to C02 over 8 h after intravenous administration of 14C-labelled DL-tartrate. Intestinal bacteria, they found, metabolized both D-and L-tartrate. After oral ingestion, as much as 46% of tartrate was converted to C02 and only 12% excreted unchanged in the urine. Other metabolites of tartrate in man have not yet been identified. Whether or not oxalic acid may be an end-product of tartrate catabolism was investigated by Chadwick et al2. They concluded that no significant formation of oxalate occurred. However, oxalate excretion in only one subject was studied. Kun and Hernandez3 reported that the mitochondria of several animal tissues contain an enzyme system capable of oxidizing meso or D-tartrate. They proposed formation of glyoxylate from tartrate as follows: D (−) or Meso Tartrate + NAD+→Dihydroxyfumarate →Mg 2+ Glyoxylate Glyoxylate is readily converted to oxalate in vivo. Tartaric acid L(+), is present in many fruits and is widely used as a constituent of effervescent drinks. The Redoxon tablet preparation of ascorbic acid contains 800 mg of L(+) tartaric acid/g of ascorbic acid. A knowledge of the end-products of tartrate metabolism is therefore of considerable interest and in the present study its possible metabolism to oxalate was investigated.
Some Paradoxical Goals of Cells and Organisms: The Role of the MHC

A biological perspective on morals may not solve personal dilemmas, but it may clarify their roots. In this overview, I shall survey some parallels between social cells and social organisms with respect to the genetic and behavioral basis of cooperation and conflict. No lessons are preached here about how individuals or cells should behave. In particular, I do not connect any moral stance with genetics. On the contrary, I would like to suggest that moral dilemmas are more frequently caused by genetic factors than solved by them.
Effects of Reflux on the Esophageal Mucosa

Cardiac mucosa was originally described by Hayward in 1961 as a normally occurring region of non-specialized columnar epithelium occurring between the oxyntic, acid producing gastric mucosa and the squamous epithelium of the esophagus. However, the presence of cardiac mucosa is not ubiquitous as documented in autopsy series. It is hypothesized that the presence of cardiac mucosa is actually an early manifestation of gastroesophageal reflux or so-called intrasphincteric reflux. This idea is further supported by the strong association found between the presence of cardiac mucosa with the hallmarks of gastroesophageal disease including increased acid exposure, hiatal hernia, a structurally defective lower esophageal sphincter, and erosive esophagitis. This chapter focuses on the cellular changes in the distal esophagus as a result of reflux leading to the metaplasia dysplasia sequence.
Quantitative Analysis of Surgical Residency Reform: Using Case-Logs to Evaluate Resident Experience.

Background Curricular changes at a mid-sized surgical training program were developed to rebalance clinical rotations, optimize education over service, decrease the size of service teams, and integrate apprenticeship-type experiences. This study quantifies the operative experience before and after implementation as part of a mixed-methods program evaluation. Study Design Retrospective review of case-log data and data from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program: quality in-training initiative to evaluate case volume pre- and postintervention. Results 11,365 cases, excluding “first-assistant” and “endoscopic” cases, were logged for an average of 291 and 263 cases/resident pre- and postintervention, respectively. Average case volume increased significantly for postgraduate year (PGY) 3 residents and decreased significantly for PGY 4 residents between the two time periods. Variability was observed among residents at the same PGY level both pre- and postintervention, with coefficients of variation of 6.0% to 34.1% in 2014 to 2015 and 11.2% to 66.8% in 2015 to 2016. Inter-resident variability persisted when comparing a specific procedure between ACGME case-log and quality in-training initiative data sets. Conclusion The data suggest that inter-resident variability in case load is not an artifact of case logging behavior alone, but may reflect personal preferences and choices in case selection that are not impacted by curriculum change. Logging behavior and accuracy of case-logs may contribute to variability. The shift in case load from PGY 4 to PGY 3 after curriculum implementation requires validation by ongoing analysis of ACGME case-log data.
Laparoscopic Splenectomy for Trauma.

Background and Objectives The use of laparoscopy in the trauma setting is gaining momentum, with more therapeutic procedures being performed. We evaluated the use of laparoscopic splenectomy among trauma patients with data from the National Trauma Database. We compared outcomes for trauma patients undergoing laparoscopic (LS) versus open splenectomy (OS). Methods From the National Trauma Database (2007 to 2015), we identified all patients who underwent a total splenectomy. Patients who had other abdominal operations were excluded. All patients were categorized into 1 of 2 groups: LS or OS. Outcomes of in-hospital mortality, postoperative length of stay, and incidence of major complications between the 2 groups were compared. Bivariate parametric and nonparametric analyses were performed. Patients were then matched on baseline demographic and injury characteristics by using propensity score matching techniques, and we compared differences by using regression analysis. Results A total of 25,408 patients underwent OS and 113 patients underwent LS (0.44%). Patients were significantly different at baseline, with the LS group being less severely injured. Bivariate analysis revealed no difference in length of stay (9 vs 8 days, P = .62), incidence of major complications (10% vs 15%, P = .24), or mortality (6% vs 11%, P = .23). LS was performed in 29.2% of patients beyond 24 hours from presentation compared with 9.5% in the OS (P < .001). Adjusted multivariate analysis showed no overall difference in outcomes. Conclusion LS for trauma is increasingly being used at many centers throughout the United States. The procedure is safe, with outcomes similar to those of OS in selected trauma patients.
Reconfigurable Black Phosphorus Vertical Tunneling Field-Effect Transistor With Record High ON-Currents

Tunneling field-effect transistors (TFETs) have been proposed as energy-efficient switches for low-power integrated circuits. In this letter, we present the first reconfigurable black phosphorus vertical TFET. The device exhibits a record high ON-current ( ${I}_{\text {ON}}$ ) among all 2D TFETs of $15.2~\mu \text{A}/\mu \text{m}$ at ${V}_{\text {DS}} = -{1}$ V and a subthreshold swing (SS) of 187 mV/dec at $V_{\text {DS}} = -{0.3}$ V. By tuning the electrostatic doping with multiple gates, the device can be reconfigured to operate in the TFET mode or the MOSFET mode and can be tuned to behave like an n-type or p-type FET. Moreover, negative differential resistance (NDR) is observed in the forward bias of the TFET at room temperature, providing unambiguous evidence of band-to-band tunneling in our devices.
Appeal of JUUL among adolescents.

Abstract Introduction JUUL is a closed-system e-cigarette that uses disposable pods with high concentrations of nicotine. JUUL use among youth arose exponentially since 2015, thus, it is essential to understand youths’ reasons for liking/disliking JUUL to inform the regulation of the product. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 4 high schools in Connecticut in 2018 (N = 3170). The survey assessed JUUL use in the past month and reasons for liking/disliking JUUL, which included pharmacological effects (e.g., subjective nicotine and/or flavor effects), product characteristics (e.g., flavors, nicotine, shape), peer influence (e.g., friends’ use), comparisons to other e-cigarettes (e.g., lower harm), and concealability (e.g., hide from authority). Results 30.2% (N = 956) were past-month users who used a JUUL on an average of 13.6 days (SD = 11.7; 25% reported daily use). The top reasons for liking JUUL were: “it gives me a buzz” (52%), “I like the flavors” (43%), and “my friends use it” (36%). The top reasons for disliking JUUL were: “the pods are expensive” (57%), “nicotine is too high” (20%), and “it gives me a headache” (18%). Regression models indicated that liking JUUL because of the buzz, ability to help concentrate, nicotine level, and ease of hiding it from teachers were associated with more days of use in the past month, while peer influence was negatively associated. Furthermore, disliking the high cost of pods was associated with more frequent use. Conclusions Comprehensive policies that regulate device characteristics that appeal to youth (e.g., nicotine level, flavors) are needed to prevent JUUL use among youth.
The Emancipatory Potential of Critical Theory: With Bourdieu and Beyond

A comment on Mariano Croce's “The Levels of Critique. Pierre Bourdieu and the Political Potential of Social Theory.”
Histone H3 variants at the root of metastasis

Chromatin remodeling is at the root of any cell fate decision, laying the foundation for the necessary reprogramming to occur. Our work shows histone H3 variants as a new addition to the ever-growing body of epigenetic regulators, one that is essential for cell fate transitions in carcinoma cells to promote tumor progression and metastasis.
Hypothyroidism Due to Iodine Overload in Children Receiving Peritoneal Dialysis: A Report of 4 Cases.

Children who receive peritoneal dialysis (PD) are at increased risk for thyroid dysfunction. A rarely appreciated cause is iodine overload. We report 4 children who developed iodine overload and secondary hypothyroidism. All had kidney failure treated by PD. Each previously had normal thyroid function screening test results. At the time hypothyroidism was detected, the duration of PD ranged from 1 week to 27 months (median, 6 months). Three children had high thyrotropin values and all had high serum iodine levels. The sole source of iodine exposure in each child was a povidone-iodine–impregnated gauze in the sterile transfer set cap associated with PD. Iodine overload is a poorly appreciated problem associated with the provision of PD in infants and small children and can lead to thyroid dysfunction. Increased awareness among pediatric nephrologists should lead to the development of optimal monitoring and prevention recommendations.
Social Determinants of Health and ADHD Symptoms in Preschool-Age Children:

Objective:Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) disproportionately affects socioeconomically disadvantaged children, but for unclear reasons. We examined the association between social de...
The Impact of Race and Gender on 30-Day Urologic Surgery Complications

Abstract Objective To assess the effect of race and gender on complications after urologic surgeries. Materials and Methods The American College of Surgeons’ National Surgical Quality Improvement Program data was utilized for patients undergoing urologic surgeries. Patient demographics and comorbidities were analyzed. Postoperative complications occurring in a 30-day postoperative period were noted and classified per the Clavien-Dindo classification. Results From 2008-2018, 284,050 patients underwent urologic surgery. The majority were men (80%) and identified as non-Hispanic white (80%). Complications occurred in 12%, including 9% minor, 5% major, and mortality in 0.6%. Univariate analysis found female gender, non-Hispanic black and Native American race, and patient comorbidities (hypertension, diabetes, heart failure, lung disease, chronic kidney disease) to be associated with increased risk of complications. Female gender remained a significant predictor on multivariable logistic regression, and Hispanic race was found to be an independent negative predictor of postoperative complications, although these results did not appear clinically significant. On exclusion of gender-specific urologic surgeries, female gender was associated with higher likelihood of minor complications, but male gender was associated with higher likelihood of major complications or mortality. Conclusion Race was not associated with postoperative complication rate. Patient comorbidities are associated with an increased risk of 30-day postoperative complications. Females were more likely to have minor and males were more likely to major complications. Optimizing patient comorbidities preoperatively is key to improving postoperative outcomes.
Water and electrolyte movement and mucosal morphology in the jejunum of patients with portal hypertension.

Abstract Intestinal secretion and intercellular space dilatation can be induced in animal models by acute elevation of intravascular volume or portal pressure. We examined whether patients with increased portal venous pressure might represent a clinical counterpart to these animal models. Portal venous pressure, determined by hepatic wedge pressure measurement, was elevated to 10–55 mmHg (mean 29 mmHg) in 8 patients with chronic liver disease without diarrhea. Intestinal transport studies utilizing a steady-state perfusion technique revealed normal absorption of a plasmalike electrolyte solution. A solution designed to unmask intestinal secretion demonstrated no difference from control subjects in the movement of water, electrolytes, or protein into the intestinal lumen. There was no correlation of absorption or secretion with hepatic wedge pressure. Jejunal biopsy revealed a significant increase in dilatation of intercellular spaces in patients compared to controls; this increase was not correlated with hepatic wedge pressure, but was significantly inversely correlated to plasma renin and aldosterone concentration. We conclude that patients with chronic liver disease and portal hypertension absorb water and electrolytes normally, but have mild morphologic alterations in the intestinal mucosa, possibly related to intravascular volume status.
PURIFICATION AND PROPERTIES OF GLUTAMINASE AND ASPARAGINASE FROM A PSEUDOMONAD. II. SUBSTRATE SPECIFICITY, KINETICS, ACTIVATION, AND INHIBITION.

Abstract Various properties have been studied of a highly purified enzyme preparation from a strain of Pseudomonas which has both glutaminase and asparaginase activities. The enzyme preparation is highly specific for l -glutamine and l -asparagine. d -Asparagine has about 20% of the activity of the l -enantiomorph. The glutaminase activity of the enzyme preparation is activated by certain divalent anions and is inhibited by monovalent anions. The asparaginase activity is greatly increased by cyanide, thiocyanate, and nitrate ions. Both enzyme activities are increased by a variety of divalent cations. Fe ++ and Hg ++ are strongly inhibitory. The enzyme preparation shows good glutaminase activity over the pH range of 5–8, with an optimum value at pH 6.6. The asparaginase activity is highest at pH 8.2. The glutaminase activity is strongly inhibited by all phthalein dyes and moderately by flavianic acid and atabrine; the asparaginase activity is strongly inhibited only by bromocresol green. Ammonia and d - and l -glutamic acids are competitive inhibitors of the glutaminase activity; ammonia and l -aspartic acid have no effect on the asparaginase activity.
The Investor Recognition Hypothesis: International Evidence and Determinants

We test the investor recognition hypothesis through an examination of the high volume return premium across countries. Our cross-country tests are consistent with the hypothesis in that we find the magnitude of the premium is associated with market characteristics that relate to the importance of a stock's visibility, including proxies for information dissemination, investor confidence, and investor demographics. Further, we find that the high volume return premium is a persistent phenomenon found in almost all developed equity markets and in emerging equity markets as well.
Ascending water electrode studies of metal extractants: Faradaic ion transfer of protonated, 1,10-phenanthroline and its derivatives across an aqueous 1,2-dichloroethane interface

Abstract The distribution mechanism of protonated 1,10-phenanthroline and its derivatives between aqueous and 1,2-dichloroethane phases was elucidated by investigating the faradaic ion transfer across a liquid-liquid interface using current scan polarography at the ascending water electrode, as well as by programmed current chronopotentiometry. Neutral reagent distributes into the aqueous phase, where it is protonated near the interface. From there the protonated reagent transfers electrolytically to the organic phase. The hypothetical individual distribution constants of the protonated ions were determined to be 0.63, 1.8, 1.9, and 3.6 for 1,10-phenanthroline, 4,7-dimethyl-1,10-phenanthroline, 2,9-dimethyl-1,10-phenanthroline, and 4,7-diphenyl-1,10-phenanthroline, respectively. They were found to correlate closely with the distribution constants of the respective neutral reagents.
Architecture of Membrane Proteins

Biological membranes are exquisite multifunctional structures that border all living cells and intracellular organelles in virtually all types of organisms from bacteria to man. In addition to the fundamental phospholipid unit, present in most bacteria and eukaryotes, and the dominant ether lipids present in many archaea, other lipids, proteins, carbohydrates and sterols contribute to the lipid bilayer. Most important, from a functional perspective, are the specialised membrane proteins of diverse functions that are embedded in or associated with membranes. Membrane architectural features and the methods used to gain relevant information are presented. Integral, peripheral and lipid-anchored membrane proteins as well as the inhomogeneity of membranes are considered from structural, functional and evolutionary standpoints. Transport proteins that provide avenues of communication and material exchange, and toxins that target membranes and kill cells by creating transmembrane pores, are discussed in some detail, especially from mechanistic points of view. Key Concepts: Architecture of membranes and membrane proteins. Functions of transmembrane proteins. Membrane microcompartmentalisation. Protein pore-forming toxins. Lipid rafts and caveolae. Keywords: lipid bilayer; transporters; pore-forming toxins; membrane lipid rafts; caveolae
Numerically Dominant Denitrifying Bacteria from World Soils

Nineteen soils, three freshwater lake sediments, and oxidized poultry manure were examined to determine the dominant denitrifier populations. The samples, most shown or expected to support active denitrification, were from eight countries and included rice paddy, temperate agricultural, rain forest, organic, and waste-treated soils. Over 1,500 organisms that could grow anaerobically on nitrate agar were isolated. After purification, 146 denitrifiers were obtained, as verified by production of N2 from NO3-. These isolates were characterized by 52 properties appropriate for the Pseudomonas-Alcaligenes group. Numerical taxonomic procedures were used to group the isolates and compare them with nine known denitrifier species. The major group isolated was representative of Pseudonomas fluorescens biotype II. The second most prevalent group was representative of Alcaligenes. Other Pseudomonas species as well as members of the genus Flavobacterium, the latter previously not known to denitrify, also were identified. One-third of the isolates could not utilize glucose or other carbohydrates as sole carbon sources. Significantly, none of the numerically dominant denitrifiers we isolated resembled the most studied species: Pseudomonas denitrificans, Pseudomonas perfectomarinus, and Paracoccus denitrificans. Denitrification appears to be a property of a very diverse group of gram-negative, motile bacteria, as shown by the large number (22.6%) of ungrouped organisms. The diversity of denitrifiers from a given sample was usually high, with at least two groups present. Denitrifiers, nitrite accumulators, and organisms capable of anaerobic growth were present in the ratio of 0.20±0.23:0.81±0.23:1. There were few correlations between their numbers and the sample characteristics measured. However, the temperatures at which isolates could grow were significantly related to the temperatures of the environments from which they were isolated. Regression analysis revealed few relationships between physical parameters and bacterial types, save for the anaerobe numbers, in which 94% of the variance could be accounted for.
Methods to Reduce Contamination in Targets Prepared by Vacuum Deposition

For some time, both the experimenters and we target makers have been concerned about the source of impurities which were found from experimental data obtained using targets prepared by vacuum vapor deposition. These impurities may arise from the process of producing the target, the separated isotope used in the evaporation, or contaminants introduced during the experiment. Some impurities such as carbon, oxygen and nitrogen are likely to be introduced into the target during evaporation, as a result of residual gases and contaminants, such as diffusion pump oil, present in the vacuum system. The present study was initiated to determine the source of impurities found in our targets. We would like to mention some of the experimenters who were kind enough to cooperate with us by bringing to our attention these impurities whenever they found them and, in addition, letting us use some of their data: D. F. Geesaman, W. Henning, M. S. Kaminsky, D. G. Kovar, W. Kutschera, G. C. Morrison, M. Paul, and S. J. Sanders.
Chapter 29 Aspects of the Calcium Hypothesis of Stimulus—Secretion Coupling: Electrical Activity in Adenohypophyseal Cells, and Membrane Retrieval after Exocytosis

Publisher Summary This chapter describes how secretagogues raise the calcium (Ca) ion concentration intracellularly. Ca mobilization from cellular sources might contribute, along with Ca influx, to the initiation of the secretory response. The stimulus displaces Ca from the plasma membrane; this action not only contributes in activating Ca ions but also promotes the increased membrane permeability that allows the influx of other, stimulant Ca ions. Many cells and numerous secretagogues utilize cellular Ca for stimulus–secretion coupling, whereas others utilize Ca from intracellular sources. Different secretagogues acting on a single cell may preferentially draw on one or the other of these two sources of Ca. Many other endocrine cells have been shown to accumulate Ca and to secrete, in a Ca-dependent fashion, when exposed to excess potassium (K); this phenomenon has provided an argument that Ca has a mediator function in the system. Adenohypophyseal cells were among the first cells in which exocytosis was detected, and exocytosis is the process that Ca regulates.
Retrograde dual atrioventricular nodal pathways

Abstract Thirty-one (3.5 percent) of 887 studied patients had retrograde dual atrioventricular (A-V) nodal pathways, as manifested by discontinuous retrograde A-V nodal conduction curves (29 patients) or by two sets of ventriculoatrial (V-A) conduction intervals at the same paced cycle length (2 patients). All patients had A-V nodal reentrant ventricular echoes of the unusual variety induced with ventricular stimulation (25 patients had single, 2 patients had double and 4 patients had more than three ventricular echoes). The weak link of the reentrant circuit was always the retrograde slow pathway. Eleven of the 31 patients also had anterograde dual A-V nodal pathways (bidirectional dual pathways). Eight patients (26 percent) had spontaneous as well as inducible A-V nodal reentrant paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (of the unusual type in three and the usual type in five). In addition, three patients (10 percent) had only inducible supraventricular tachycardia (two of the unusual and one of the usual type). Retrograde dual A-V nodal pathways are uncommon. They are associated with the finding of at least single A-V nodal reentrant ventricular echoes (all patients), anterograde dual pathways (one third of patients) and A-V nodal reentrant paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia of the usual or unusual variety (one third of patients).
Natural Regulatory T Cells Control Coronary Arteriolar Endothelial Dysfunction in Hypertensive Mice

Coronary artery disease in patients with hypertension is increasing worldwide and leads to severe cardiovascular complications. The cellular and molecular mechanisms that underlie this pathologic condition are not well understood. Experimental and clinical research indicates that immune cells and inflammation play a central role in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. Recently, it has been reported that CD4 + CD25 + regulatory T cells (Tregs) regulate heart fibrosis in hypertension. In this study, we determined the role of Tregs in coronary arteriolar endothelial dysfunction in angiotensin II–dependent hypertensive mice. Mice infused with angiotensin II had significantly increased blood pressure, as determined using telemetry, and apoptotic Treg numbers, as measured using flow cytometry. The mice displayed inflammation, assessed by macrophage activation/infiltration into coronary arterioles and the heart, and increased local tumor necrosis factor-α release, which participates in reduced coronary arteriolar endothelial-dependent relaxation in response to acetylcholine using an arteriograph. Hypertensive mice injected with Tregs isolated from control mice had significantly reduced macrophage activation and infiltration, reduced tumor necrosis factor-α release, and improved coronary arteriolar endothelium-dependent relaxation. Our novel data indicate that Tregs are important in the development of coronary arteriolar endothelial dysfunction in hypertension. These results suggest a new direction in the investigation of vascular disease in hypertension and could lead to a therapeutic strategy that involves immune system modulation using Tregs.
Predominance of dipolar interactions in Gd3+ selective line broadening of epi-inositol by 13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy

Etude de liaisons entre Gd 3+ et Mn 2+ d'une part et les hydrates de carbone et glycopeptides d'autre part par des techniques d'elargissement selectif de raie en RMN de 13 C
Diabetes and the metabolic syndrome—When is it best to intervene to prevent?

In addition to microvascular complications, patients with type 2 diabetes are at increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and mortality. An important initial step in reducing the overall burden of CVD, as well as other diabetes complications, is to prevent progression to diabetes in individuals at risk. A number of studies have indicated the increased presence of both established and emerging cardiovascular risk factors associated with the metabolic syndrome in individuals before the onset of diabetes. First-line therapy in the treatment of the metabolic syndrome risk factors is lifestyle intervention, which can be highly successful in preventing or delaying progression to overt diabetes, but on its own may not achieve and/or maintain adequate risk reduction. In this case, individuals need to be identified and treated with appropriate pharmacological interventions. The data are unequivocal in the importance of the timely identification of at-risk subjects, and implementation of effective treatment strategies, which could potentially reduce diabetes- and CVD-related morbidity and mortality.
Rhabdomyolysis in the hyperosmolal state

Abstract purpose: We undertook this study to determine the occurrence of rhabdomyolysis in the hyperosmolal state. patients and methods: We reviewed 130 hospital admissions due to diabetic ketoacidosis or hyperosmolal coma, or both. Thirty-one patients (12 men and 19 women) were found to be in the hyperosmolal state. Sixteen of 31 patients showed biochemical evidence of rhabdomyolysis. The clinical and biochemical features of the patients with rhabdomyolysis (Group I) and the patients without rhabdomyolysis (Group II) were compared. results: Patients in Group I showed a 100-fold increase (7,156 ± 2,820 IU/L) in serum creatine phosphokinase (CPK) when compared to the patients in Group II (61 ± 11 IU/L). The mean serum osmolality was much higher (p conclusion: Subclinical rhabdomyolysis is a common finding in the hyperosmolal state. Absence of hyperkalemia in the presence of muscle injury, hyperosmolality, hyperglycemia, and acidosis suggested pre-existing total-body potassium deficiency in many of these patients. In addition to hypokalemia, the hyperosmolal state predisposes to the development of rhabdomyolysis.
Multiband photometry of Comets Kohoutek, Bennett, Bradfield, and Encke

Observations of Comets Kohoutek (1973f), Bradfield (1974b), and P/Encke have been made at a number of wavelengths between 0.55 and 18 microns. The silicate feature first observed in Comet Bennett (1969i) seems to be a common characteristic of cometary material. The comas of these comets radiate infrared with an effective temperature higher than the black-body temperature at the given distance from the sun. The albedo of the dust particles is between 0.10 and 0.20. The particles in the coma and tail are small, but the particles in the anti-tail of Comet Kohoutek must be larger than about 10 microns diameter. The observations give an absolute upper limit to the diameter of Comet Kohoutek of 30 km. A consistent interpretation would indicate that Comets Kohoutek and Bradfield have nuclear diameters of 5 to 10 km, that Bennett was several times larger, and that P/Encke is 10 times smaller. The peculiar behavior of Bradfield showed that the coma of a single comet can abruptly change its dust composition.