cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
IMPACT OF TRICUSPID REGURGITATION ON POSTOPERATIVE OUTCOMES AFTER NON-CARDIAC SURGERIES

Although presence of increasing tricuspid regurgitation (TR) severity has adverse implications in a number of clinical scenarios, it's impact on patients undergoing non-cardiac surgery (NCS) has not been evaluated. We sought to determine the impact of TR on patient outcomes after NCS. Patients
Provision of Agricultural Ecosystem Services

An ecosystem is a community of living organisms, including plants, animals, and microbes, plus the nonliving components of their environment, such as water and minerals, interacting together as a system or an ecological unit (e.g., a pasture or forest). Ecosystems may also be viewed as a form of natural capital, which provides flows of vital goods and services to humans (e.g., Daily 1997). These goods and services are called ecosystem services (ES) and are often defined as the “benefits people obtain either directly or indirectly from ecosystems” (MEA 2005). Many ES are critical to human survival (e.g., climate regulation and nutrient cycling), while others contribute to our well-being (e.g., nature recreation and rural lifestyles) (Kremen 2005). Scientists and scholars have traditionally focused on natural ecosystems, such as wetlands and ponds, for ES provision (e.g., Daily 1997). However, other scholars are beginning to recognize the crucial role agriculture plays in ensuring humans receive an adequate flow of ES to sustain our quality of life (e.g., Swinton et al. 2007). The reason is that agricultural ecosystems comprise about half of global land that is not desert, tundra, rock, or boreal, which makes farmers the chief managers of the most productive lands on Earth (Tillman et al. 2002). How farmers manage this land greatly impacts human health and well-being, the land’s future productivity, neighboring ecosystems such as wetlands and forest, and the sustainability of the world’s food supply (Foley et al. 2005; Horrigan et al. 2002). Despite this importance, most farmers face strong incentives to manage their land for the short-term production of food, fiber, or fuel. The long-term health of agricultural ecosystems, however, as well as their ability to sustain food production and to provide society with diverse benefits, requires that farmers expand their management focus to include the provision of ecosystem services (ES) (Goldman et al. 2007; MEA 2005). In fact, some scholars argue that one of the greatest needs in agriculture, if not the greatest, is the provision of nonproduction-related ES such as water purification and climate regulation (e.g., Antle and Capalbo 2002). Thus, one of the most fundamental ethical issues surrounding the provision of ES is how to encourage farmers to promote, develop, andmanage ES – that is, how to encourage them to overlook short-term incentives to focus primarily on production-related agricultural services and adopt a longer-term public interest perspective by considering the provision of ES. Some relevant questions include: What ES ought to be provided? Do people have a right to specific ES, such as water cycling, clean air, or climate control? If so, whose duty is it to provide ES? If it is the farmers’ duty to provide agriculture-related ES, should farmers be paid for provision? If so, howmuch should
Cost effectiveness and clinical efficacy of patent foramen ovale closure as compared to medical therapy in cryptogenic stroke patients: A detailed cost analysis and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Abstract Background Up to half the patients with cryptogenic stroke under the age of 55 years have been found to have a PFO. Observational studies have demonstrated a benefit from closure of PFO and several RCTs have shown a trend toward benefit. The cost and clinical effectiveness of PFO closure is unclear. Methods and results We searched for RCTs of PFO closure in patients with cryptogenic stroke and performed a detailed cost analysis and meta-analysis of treatment outcomes based on the results of the meta-analysis. Five RCTs containing 3404 patients with cryptogenic stroke were included. Of these 1829 underwent PFO closure and 1611 received medical therapy. Mean follow-up was 4.0 years. PFO closure achieved cost effectiveness ( Conclusions In comparison to medical therapy alone, PFO closure appears to be cost-effective and clinically efficacious.
Behavioral vs. Traditional Corporate Finance: An Unabashed Critical Review

Research in behavioral corporate finance has accumulated to the point that it may now be a viable contender as an alternative to traditional corporate finance. This review consists of three parts. First, I discuss the foundations behind these two competing theories. I clarify concepts such as rational versus irrational behaviors of managers contrasted with those of the investors. Second, I make side by side comparisons and a critical examination of the two theories in the main topic areas of dividends, capital structure, and investments. Part three gives practical suggestions on how practitioners may use behavioral finance in their dealings as well as avoid known behavioral biases.
Prevalence of Incidentally Identified Thoracic Aortic Dilations: Insights for Screening Criteria

Abstract Background Systematic screening for ascending thoracic aortic aneurysms and dilations does not exist currently with unknown prevalence and diagnostic yields. We evaluated the prevalence of ascending thoracic aortic dilation. Methods Computed tomography scans including the chest in adult patients carried out during 2016 were reviewed at our institution. Aortic dilation was defined as the ascending thoracic aorta diameter ≥ 4.0 cm, with sensitivity analyses using height-indexed values and thresholds of 3.5, 4.25, and 4.5 cm. The prevalence of aortic dilation was evaluated by age and sex. Potential diagnostic yield along the continuum of age threshold was calculated by sex. Results Of the 5662 scans from unique patients, the prevalence of aortic dilation was 2.1% overall, 3.2% for males and 0.9% for females. Patients with aneurysms were significantly older (70.2 ± 9.9 vs 58.3 ± 16.4 years, P Conclusions Aortic dilation was identified in 2.8% of individuals with age ≥ 50 years. In females, aneurysm was uncommon. In males, there was an incremental increase in the diagnostic yield with age. Male patients with age ≥ 50 years may be the demographic group with a high prevalence of dilation.
Effect of β-blockers on triggering of symptomatic atrial fibrillation by anger or stress

Background Anger and stress can trigger episodes of atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients with a history of AF. Objective The purpose of this study was to determine whether β-blockers can protect against emotionally triggered AF. Methods In this prospective, controlled, electronic diary–based study of emotions preceding AF, patients with a history of paroxysmal or persistent AF (N = 91) recorded their rhythm on event monitors at the time of AF symptoms and completed a diary entry querying mood states (eg, anger and stress) for the preceding 30 minutes (pre-AF "case period") for 1 year. Also, patients underwent monthly 24-hour Holter monitoring during which they were prompted to complete a diary entry twice per hour. Diaries recorded during sinus rhythm comprise controls. Patients' exposure to each emotion was compared between the pre-AF case period and control periods by using generalized estimating equation modeling, as well as interactions between β-blocker use and emotion tested. Results Sixty percent were prescribed β-blockers. A total of 163 symptomatic AF episodes (in 34 patients) and 11,563 Holter-confirmed sinus rhythm control periods had associated diary data. Overall, the likelihood of an AF episode was significantly higher during anger or stress. This effect, however, was significantly attenuated in patients on β-blockers (odds ratio 22.5; 95% confidence interval 6.7–75.4, P Conclusion Anger or stress can trigger AF, but use of β-blockers greatly attenuates this deleterious physiological response.
Transcription factor networks in aged naïve CD4 T cells bias lineage differentiation.

With reduced thymic activity, the population of naive T cells in humans is maintained by homeostatic proliferation throughout adult life. In young adults, naive CD4 T cells have enormous proliferative potential and plasticity to differentiate into different lineages. Here, we explored whether naive CD4 T-cell aging is associated with a partial loss of this unbiased multipotency. We find that naive CD4 T cells from older individuals have developed a propensity to develop into TH9 cells. Two major mechanisms contribute to this predisposition. First, responsiveness to transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) stimulation is enhanced with age due to an upregulation of the TGFβR3 receptor that results in increased expression of the transcription factor PU.1. Secondly, aged naive CD4 T cells display altered transcription factor profiles in response to T-cell receptor stimulation, including enhanced expression of BATF and IRF4 and reduced expression of ID3 and BCL6. These transcription factors are involved in TH9 differentiation as well as IL9 transcription suggesting that the aging-associated changes in the transcription factor profile favor TH9 commitment.
An audit of retinal lymphoma treatment at the University of California San Francisco.

To evaluate retinal lymphoma treatment at the University of California San Francisco. Prospective observational audit. Patients were treated systemically, usually with: methotrexate, temozolomide, and rituximab induction; etoposide consolidation; and maintenance with lenalidomide or another immunomodulatory agent. Persistent disease was treated initially by ocular radiotherapy or intravitreal melphalan and latterly by vitrectomy. The cohort comprised eight females and two males. The median age was 58 years (range, 38–73). Ocular manifestations were initially unilateral in four patients. Vitreous and subretinal infiltrates were initially present in 16 and 12 eyes, respectively, with three eyes having vision of 20/200 or worse. Four patients had a history of central nervous system (CNS) lymphoma. The median ophthalmic follow-up was 37 months (range, 8–56). Diagnostic and therapeutic vitrectomy were performed in 10 and 2 eyes, respectively. All patients had systemic chemotherapy and eight received maintenance immunotherapy. Four patients underwent ocular radiotherapy, bilaterally in two. One patient received bilateral intravitreal melphalan injections. Two eyes of four patients developed lymphoma during the study and two patients developed CNS disease. At study close, subretinal deposits were subtle in nine eyes and more prominent in two, whereas vitreous infiltrates were minimal in nine eyes, mild in one and moderate in one. The latest visual acuity was significantly worse than at presentation in two eyes and better in two. All patients were alive with no active CNS disease. Subretinal lymphomatous infiltrates respond to systemic chemotherapy with immunomodulatory maintenance, but dense vitreous infiltrates require therapeutic vitrectomy.
Banking and Foreign Exchange Transactions

It is generally believed that the first exchange of international currencies took place in the Middle Ages at the time of the Crusades. At that time, the use of bills of exchange and international debt papers had become commonplace. The foreign exchange market as we know it today, developed in the 19th century while the United Kingdom was at the height of its powers , expanding its economic and trade strenghths over the globe.
Stability of aqueous ethanol solutions stored in glass ampules.

During our work on the development of performance standards for breath alcohol analyzers [1], it was necessary to prepare known concentrations of ethanol in distilled water for the purpose of measuring the performance capabilities of such instruments. In these studies we were concerned with the preservation of our reference ethanol solutions. For this reason we prepared a solution of known ethanol concentration and stored it in a number of flame-sealed, glass ampules. Some questions have been raised concerning the stability of ethanol solutions when stored in this manner [2]. We have measured the ethanol concentration by dichromate oxidimetry over a period of two years, and the results are reported in this paper.
Reversible Oxidative Modifications in Myoglobin and Functional Implications

Myoglobin (Mb), an oxygen-binding heme protein highly expressed in heart and skeletal muscle, has been shown to undergo oxidative modifications on both an inter- and intramolecular level when exposed to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in vitro. Here, we show that exposure to H2O2 increases the peroxidase activity of Mb. Reaction of Mb with H2O2 causes covalent binding of heme to the Mb protein (Mb-X), corresponding to an increase in peroxidase activity when ascorbic acid is the reducing co-substrate. Treatment of H2O2-reacted Mb with ascorbic acid reverses the Mb-X crosslink. Reaction with H2O2 causes Mb to form dimers, trimers, and larger molecular weight Mb aggregates, and treatment with ascorbic acid regenerates Mb monomers. Reaction of Mb with H2O2 causes formation of dityrosine crosslinks, though the labile nature of the crosslinks broken by treatment with ascorbic acid suggests that the reversible aggregation of Mb is mediated by crosslinks other than dityrosine. Disappearance of a peptide containing a tryptophan residue when Mb is treated with H2O2 and the peptide's reappearance after subsequent treatment with ascorbic acid suggest that tryptophan side chains might participate in the labile crosslinking. Taken together, these data suggest that while exposure to H2O2 causes Mb-X formation, increases Mb peroxidase activity, and causes Mb aggregation, these oxidative modifications are reversible by treatment with ascorbic acid. A caveat is that future studies should demonstrate that these and other in vitro findings regarding properties of Mb have relevance in the intracellular milieu, especially in regard to actual concentrations of metMb, H2O2, and ascorbate that would be found in vivo.
Racial/Ethnic Disparities in Follow-Up Adherence for Incidental Pulmonary Nodules: An Application of a Cascade-of-Care Framework.

Abstract Purpose The aim of this study was to evaluate racial/ethnic disparities in follow-up adherence for incidental pulmonary nodules (IPNs) using a cascade-of-care framework, representing the multistage pathway from IPN diagnosis to timely follow-up adherence. Methods A cohort of 1,562 patients diagnosed with IPNs requiring follow-up in a tertiary health care system in 2016 were retrospectively identified. Racial/ethnic disparities in follow-up adherence were examined by developing a multistep cascade-of-care model (provider communication, follow-up examination ordering and scheduling, adherence) to identify where patients were most likely to fall off the path toward adherence. Racial/ethnic adherence disparities were measured using descriptive statistics and multivariate modeling, controlling for sociodemographic, communication, and health characteristics. Results Among 1,562 patients whose IPNs required follow-up, unadjusted results showed that nonwhite patients were less likely to meet each step on the cascade than White patients: for provider-patient IPN communication, 55% among Black patients and 80% among White patients; for follow-up ordering and scheduling, 42% and 41% among Black patients and 66% and 64% among White patients; and for timely adherence, 29% among Black patients and 54% among White patients. Adjusting for provider communication, sociodemographic, and health characteristics, Black patients had increased odds of never adhering to and delaying follow-up compared with White patients (odds ratios, 1.30 [95% confidence interval, 0.90-1.89] and 2.51 [95% confidence interval, 1.54-4.09], respectively). Conclusions These findings demonstrate substantial racial/ethnic disparities in IPN follow-up adherence that persist after adjusting for multiple characteristics. The cascade of care demonstrates where on the adherence pathway patients are at risk for falling off, enabling specific targets for health policy and clinical interventions. Radiologists can play a key role in improving IPN follow-up via increased patient care involvement.
Observations of Eclipsing Binary EPIC 201826968

The eclipsing binary system EPIC 201826968 was imaged using the Las Cumbres Observatory Global Telescope Network with Bessel-B, Bessel-V, SDSS-r0 and SDSS-i0 filters. AstroImageJ was used to determine the optimal exposure time for the images. We coded a phase-dispersion minimization (PDM) algorithm and compared its result to PyAstronomy’s PDM algorithm and both PyAstronomy’s and Astropy’s Lomb-Scargle algorithms. Our distance PDM algorithm gave a period of 0.3617673 days, while the PyAstronomy PDM gave 0.3617724 days. The Lomb-Scargle algorithms both gave very different periods of near 1.83 days, possibly due to Lomb-Scargle’s reliance on a sinusoidal fit. Since Kepler measured a period of 0.3617589 days, and the average period from the Python-coded and PyAstronomy PDM algorithms deviated from it by less than a second, we concluded that the period of eclipsing binary system EPIC 201826968 hasnot changed since Kepler’s observations.
Analysis of Harmonic Instability Induced by Lightning Strike in a LCC-HVDC System

In a ±500 kV/3000 MW line commutated converter based high voltage dc (LCC-HVDC) transmission system, divergent 125Hz harmonic voltage oscillation resulted in bipolar block after de line lightning strike fault. To study the phenomenon and find a solution, the characteristics of harmonic oscillation are first analyzed, and the harmonic transfer model of AC and DC system is established. Then HVDC control and protection cubicles in the loop simulation platform based on real time digital simulator (RTDS) is established and the harmonic instability phenomenon in field is reproduced. Further, the influence factors of oscillation damping are studied, based on the closed-loop simulation platform. Finally, the solution is proposed via control optimization and is verified on the simulation platform.
ROTHBARD ON V SHAPED AVERAGE AND TOTAL COST CURVES

R othbard (1993, pp. 638-45) refuted the important economic fallacy that excess capacity is a normal consequence of profit maximizing behavior by businesses in some industries when they are in long-run equilibrium. And, in so doing provided a manifest example of misuse of mathematics in modern economics. According to standard theory, given a U-shaped, average-cost curve (ACC), in equilibrium, a firm whose demand is perfectly competitive will operate at the point where its horizontal demand curve is just tangent to the ACC; i.e., at the point where average cost (AC) is at its minimum. Alternatively, a firm in an industry characterized by monopolistic competition will face a downward-sloping demand curve. In that case, again in equilibrium, the firm will operate where the demand curve is just tangent to the U-shaped ACC. However, in that case, the point of tangency will occur at lesser quantity than that at which AC is at its minimum. Rothbard, however, puts an end to this notion, despite its vast popularity within the profession. He notes that a necessary condition for the above conclusion is that the ACC be smooth. As proof, he offers his famous diagram (1993, p. 644, fig. 72), the essential burden of which is that though the ACC curve slopes downward continuously until it reaches its minimum and then slopes upward continuously, and is in fact a graph of a continuous function, nevertheless the function is not differentiable at critical points, including especially, at its minimum. Our figure 1 accentuates this even more, drawing the ACC not in a "quasi-U" shape, but in a "V" shape. Note that in either of these cases, the downward sloping demand curve can, in contravention of the standard theory, touch 1 the ACC curve at the minimum point of the latter.
An Exposure-Based Intervention Dismantles College-Aged Females’ Barriers for Resistance Training: Project WONDER Training

This study aimed to examine the effects of an exposure-based resistance training (RT) intervention on perceived barriers, benefits, and motives for RT in college-aged females and to assess moderating effects of a trainer-trainee relationship on any intervention outcomes. A sample of 13 (Mage = 20.7 ± 1.3y) physically active, non-resistance training female students completed an 8-week intervention (1hr 45min, twice per week). The intervention was effective in reducing perceived time/effort (t[12] = 5.02, p < 0.001, d = 1.81), physical effect (t[12] = 2.48, p = 0.029, d = 0.86) and social (t[12] = 4.86, p < .001, d = 1.97) RT barriers. A positive change pattern was established in stress management (t[12] = 2.21, p = 0.048, d = 0.62), revitalization (t[12] = 2.71, p = .019, d = 0.95), and enjoyment (t[12] = 3.53, p = .004, d = 1.18). Finally, the analyses showed that goal (β = 0.23[0.02], p < 0001, R2 = 0.979) and bond (β = 0.21[.01], p < 0001, R2 = 0.995) alliances were positive moderators with large-sized effects on changes in physical barriers. For stress management, bond alliance was the only statistically significant, small-sized moderator, with a greater bond increasing the effect on the intervention (β = 0.21[.01], p < 0001, R2 = 0.997). This data suggests that an exposure-based RT intervention is beneficial for reducing perceived RT barriers in physically active, non-resistance training college-aged women and that bond-oriented support from the trainer is especially impactful in reducing some of those perceived barriers.
Stephen Sugarman and the World of Responsibility for Injurious Conduct

For a festschrift celebrating the scholarship of Professor Stephen Sugarman, I was asked to discuss his contributions to the area of accident law. Professor Sugarman’s published work runs across the spectrum of responsibility for injurer-based harm, embracing intentional misconduct, fault-based recovery, strict liability, no-fault compensation schemes, and social insurance. In addition to this wide-ranging and cogent analysis of approaches to liability and compensation, Sugarman has complemented his system-based work with perspectives from the vantage points of history, public policy formation, and jurisprudential assessment of tort and tort alternatives. My coverage unfolds as follows. I begin with Sugarman’s landmark initial excursion into the world of tort law in which he advocated the replacement of tort with a social insurance scheme. Next, I discuss his more focused tort replacement studies in the world of no-fault liability. Then, I examine his critiques of tort doctrine and his interdisciplinary approaches to the system, which include historical and jurisprudential perspectives. I conclude on a personal note.
Contrast-Enhanced Brain Ultrasound Perfusion Metrics in the EXTra-Uterine Environment for Neonatal Development (EXTEND): Correlation With Hemodynamic Parameters.

Objectives Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) can provide quantitative perfusion metrics and may be useful to detect cerebral pathology in neonates and premature infants, particularly in extrauterine environments. The effect of hemodynamics on cerebral perfusion metrics is unknown, which limits the clinical application of this technology. We aimed to determine associations between systemic hemodynamics and concurrently measured brain perfusion parameters in an animal model of extrauterine support. Methods Nine fetal lambs were transferred to an extrauterine support device. Lumason® ultrasound contrast (0.1-0.3 ml) was administered via the umbilical vein and 90-second cine clips were obtained. Time-intensity-curves (TICs) were generated and time-dependent and area-under-curve (AUC) parameters were derived. Associations between brain perfusion metrics and hemodynamics including heart rate (HR) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) were evaluated by multilevel linear mixed-effects models. Results Eighty-six ultrasound examinations were performed and 72 examinations were quantifiable. Time-dependent measurements were independent of all hemodynamic parameters (all p ≥.05). Oxygen delivery and mean blood flow were correlated with AUC measurements (all p ≤.01). Physiologic HR and MAP were not correlated with any measurements (all p ≥.05). Conclusion Detected aberrations in time-dependent CEUS measurements are not correlated with hemodynamic parameters and are thought to reflect the changes in cerebral blood flow, thus providing a promising tool for evaluation of brain perfusion. CEUS brain perfusion parameters are not correlated with physiologic HR and MAP, but AUC-dependent measurements are correlated with oxygen delivery and blood flow, suggesting that CEUS offers additional value over standard monitoring. Overall, these findings enhance the applicability of this technology.
Forum on Jon Butler's God in Gotham: The Miracle of Religion in Modern Manhattan: Introductory Remarks

Jon Butler's God in Gotham: The Miracle of Religion in Modern Manhattan is not a book, Butler would be the first to tell us, that anyone should have expected to read (or write). The equation of Manhattan with modernity and modernity with secularization has long been hardwired into the scholarly and popular imagination. Butler wants to disrupt these circuits. It is not that Manhattan was not secular but rather that religion flourished there beyond all expectations between the late nineteenth century and 1960.
Systematic Differences in Beliefs About Others in Strategic Interactions

Individuals' preferences for outcomes and their expectations about other players' choices that influence the outcome govern strategic interactions. The common assumption that expectations about others are mutually consistent across players allows researchers to infer preferences from observed strategic decisions. In this paper, I show how players beliefs about other players choices systematically depart from this assumption and explain the consequences for the inference of preferences based on strategic choices. In the context of altruistic preferences, I document a relationship between an individual's preferences and his (implicit or explicit) expectations of others' actions in modified dictator games. This relationship is beyond what false consensus or a simple correlation between beliefs and preferences can account for and is consistent with a more fundamental account of projection of preferences. I study the impact of systematic belief differences on players strategic actions in a trust-dictator game. I show that preference incongruencies across different roles in a trust-dictator game are in line with preference projection. Finally, I demonstrate biases in the estimation of preferences from decisions in this strategic game under the assumption of mutually consistent beliefs.
Modulation of multiple memory systems: From neurotransmitters to metabolic substrates

This article reviews evidence showing that neurochemical modulators can regulate the relative participation of the hippocampus and striatum in learning and memory tasks. For example, relative release of acetylcholine increases in the hippocampus and striatum reflects the relative engagement of these brain systems during learning of place and response tasks. Acetylcholine release is regulated in part by available brain glucose levels, which themselves are dynamically modified during learning. Recent findings suggest that glucose acts through astrocytes to deliver lactate to neurons. Brain glycogen is contained in astrocytes and provides a capacity to deliver energy substrates to neurons when needed, a need that can be generated by training on tasks that target hippocampal and striatal processing mechanisms. These results integrate an increase in blood glucose after epinephrine release from the adrenal medulla with provision of brain energy substrates, including lactate released from astrocytes. Together, the availability of peripheral and central energy substrates regulate the processing of learning and memory within and across multiple neural systems. Dysfunctions of the physiological steps that modulate memory--from hormones to neurotransmitters to metabolic substrates--may contribute importantly to some of the cognitive impairments seen during normal aging and during neurodegenerative diseases.
Efficacy and safety of repeated transcervical quinacrine pellet insertions for female sterilization

Objective To investigate the rates of tubal occlusion, pregnancy, and side effects of repeated, monthly transcervical insertions of 252 mg quinacrine as pellets. Design Clinical trial among 159 reproductive age women receiving two monthly transcervical insertions of 252 mg of quinacrine followed by hysterosalpingograms (HSGs) 1 month after last insertion and an additional monthly insertion among women without evidence of bilateral tubal occlusion. Contraception of women's choice provided until bilateral tubal occlusion achieved, and surgical sterilization provided for women failing to achieve bilateral tubal occlusion after third quinacrine insertion. Women were followed for at least 24 months for evidence of pregnancy or side effects. Results Among the 159 women completing the protocol, 73% had evidence of bilateral tubal occlusion by HSGs after two insertions of quinacrine pellets and 94% after a third insertion. These 149 women were followed for 24 months without a pregnancy failure or serious side effect. Conclusion Transcervical applications of quinacrine as pellets have potential for safe, effective, inexpensive, and easily deliverable female sterilization.
Surprisingly minor influence of TRAV11 (Valpha14) polymorphism on NK T-receptor mCD1/alpha-galactosylceramide binding kinetics.

Defects in natural killer T (NK T) cell function and of interleukin-4 -production in SJL and NOD mice have been linked to susceptibility to autoimmune disease. As SJL and NOD mice both carry the T-cell receptor (TCR) alpha-chain locus "c" (Tcra(c)) haplotype, found in few other strains, we have attempted to determine the influence of Tcra polymorphism on NK T-cell recognition of ligand, selection, and immune responses. The majority of NK T cells use an "invariant" TRAV11J15 (previously called AV14J18 or Valpha14 Jalpha281) alpha- chain paired with either TRBV13-2, BV29, or BV1 to recognize ligands presented by mCD1 molecules, including the glycolipid alpha-galactosylceramide (alpha-GalCer). Sequencing of TRAV11 from the mouse strains B10.A (encoding the Tcra(b) haplotype), B10.A- Tcra(c), and NOD (Tcra(c)) shows that Tcra(c) has a single TRAV11 gene (TRAV11*01) and that Tcra(b) has a single expressed gene (TRAV11*02), plus a closely related pseudogene. There is no apparent difference in alpha-chain J-region usage or in the CDR3alpha sequence at the TRAV11-J15 junction between the haplotypes in TRAV11-bearing NK T cells. Using Biacore and tetramer-binding and decay assays, we have determined that the interaction between Tcra(c) TRAV11*01 NK T TCR and the mCD1/alpha-GalCer complex is slightly weaker than that of Tcra(b) (i.e., TRAV11*02) NK T TCR. These differences are minor compared with differences between agonist and antagonist ligands in other TCR systems, suggesting that it is unlikely that TCR polymorphism explains the defect in NK T cells in the autoimmune mouse strains.
Latency Insensitive Protocols

The theory of latency insensitive design is presented as the foundation of a new correct by construction methodology to design very large digital systems by assembling blocks of Intellectual Properties. Latency insensitive designs are synchronous distributed systems and are realized by assembling functional modules exchanging data on communication channels according to an appropriate protocol. The goal of the protocol is to guarantee that latency insensitive designs composed of functionally correct modules, behave correctly independently of the wire delays. A latency-insensitive protocol is presented that makes use of relay stations buffering signals propagating along long wires. To guarantee correct behavior of the overall system, modules must satisfy weak conditions. The weakness of the conditions makes our method widely applicable.
An Optimal Semi-partitioned Scheduler for Uniform Heterogeneous Multiprocessors

A semi-partitioned scheduler called EDF-tu is presented that is the first such scheduler to be optimal on uniform heterogeneous multiprocessors. EDF-tu utilizes an adjustable allocation parameter called a frame to schedule tasks that migrate. The frame size F must divide all task periods to ensure hard real-time optimality, but for any choice of F, maximum deadline tardiness is at most F. Thus, the proper selection of F hinges on runtime overheads (which are higher when F is smaller) and the strength of the real-time guarantee desired. When determining which tasks must migrate, new issues specific to heterogeneous platforms arise that have not been explored before. It is shown via counterexamples that resolving such issues differently from EDF-tu can render feasible task systems unschedulable.
Biocatalytic Synthesis of Polymers of Precisely Defined Structures

The fabrication of functional nanoscale devices requires the construction of complex architectures at length scales characteristic of atoms and molecules. Currently microlithography and micro-machining of macroscopic objects are the preferred methods for construction of small devices, but these methods are limited to the micron scale. An intriguing approach to nanoscale fabrication involves the association of individual molecular components into the desired architectures by supramolecular assembly. This process requires the precise specification of intermolecular interactions, which in turn requires precise control of molecular structure.
Partners in crime: The role of tandem modules in gene transcription

Histones and their modifications play an important role in the regulation of gene transcription. Numerous modifications, such as acetylation, phosphorylation, methylation, ubiquitination, and SUMOylation, have been described. These modifications almost always co-occur and thereby increase the combinatorial complexity of post-translational modification detection. The domains that recognize these histone modifications often occur in tandem in the context of larger proteins and complexes. The presence of multiple modifications can positively or negatively regulate the binding of these tandem domains, influencing downstream cellular function. Alternatively, these tandem domains can have novel functions from their independent parts. Here we summarize structural and functional information known about major tandem domains and their histone binding properties. An understanding of these interactions is key for the development of epigenetic therapy.
DRL performance in rats following damage to the septal area, olfactory bulbs, or olfactory tubercle

Long-Evans rats with olfactory bulb damage, olfactory tubercle destruction, septal lesions, or control operations were trained on a VI 30-sec schedule and tested for response suppression ability on DRL 10-sec and DRL 20-sec schedules. Animals with septal damage overresponded on all three schedules, while animals with olfactory bulb damage overresponded on the VI 30-sec schedule and on the DRL 10-sec schedule. Control subjects and animals with olfactory tubercle damage did not differ on any measure. A functional relationship between the septal area and the olfactory bulbs is probably not mediated by pathways through the olfactory tubercle.
A new primate model for the study of intravenous thrombotic potential and its modification.

Abstract Advances in venous reconstruction have been limited by inherent venous thrombogenicity and the absence of a suitable prosthetic material for use in the venous system. We have designed an in vivo experimental model to evaluate early blood-material interactions within the venous system and to quantitate drug efficacy in the alteration of platelet function and fibrin deposition in the baboon. An 8F catheter was placed percutaneously in the femoral vein of an adult male baboon. Indium 111—labeled autogenous platelets or iodine 125—labeled human fibrinogen was infused before the introduction, into the inferior vena cava, of a linear array of 5 × 15 mm alternating Dacron and polytetrafluoroethylene samples attached to a benzalkonium-heparin-treated guide wire. At 60 or 120 minutes the samples were removed and a 1 ml aliquot of blood was drawn. The materials and blood samples were counted in a gamma well counter, and the material counts were normalized to the circulating label present in the 1 ml blood sample. The experiment was repeated after pretreatment with heparin, aspirin, or dextran. Whole blood clotting times and bleeding times were monitored. The results showed decreased platelet and fibrin deposition on polytetrafluoroethylene when compared with Dacron in the venous system. Aspirin, heparin, and dextran were all found to decrease platelet and fibrin deposition onto intravenously placed graft material samples ( p t test). The data confirm the ability of the model to evaluate quantitatively anticoagulants, antiplatelet agents, and prospective graft materials for use in venous reconstructions. (J VASC SURG 1988;8:49-54.)
Sodium Bicarbonate Therapy for Prevention of Contrast-Induced Nephropathy: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background Optimal hydration measures to prevent contrast-induced nephropathy are controversial. Study Design We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis using the MEDLINE database (1966 to January 2008), EMBASE (January 2008), and abstracts from conference proceedings. Setting & Population Adult patients undergoing contrast procedures. Selection Criteria for Studies Randomized controlled trials comparing intravenous hydration with sodium bicarbonate with hydration with intravenous normal saline for prevention of contrast-induced nephropathy. Intervention Hydration with intravenous sodium bicarbonate with or without N -acetylcysteine versus hydration with normal saline with or without N -acetylcysteine. Outcomes Contrast-induced nephropathy, need for renal replacement therapy, and worsening of heart failure. Results Twelve trials (1,854 participants) were included. Sodium bicarbonate significantly decreased the risk of contrast-induced nephropathy (12 trials, 1,652 patients; odds ratio [OR], 0.46; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.26 to 0.82; I 2 = 55.9%) without a significant difference in need for renal replacement therapy (9 trials, 1,215 patients; OR, 0.50; 95% CI, 0.16 to 1.53; I 2 = 0%), in-hospital mortality (11 trials, 1,640 patients; OR, 0.51; 95% CI, 0.15 to 1.69), or congestive heart failure compared with controls. Similar results were seen for the risk of contrast-induced nephropathy when sodium bicarbonate was compared with normal saline alone (OR, 0.39; 95% CI, 0.20 to 0.77), but not when sodium bicarbonate/ N -acetylcysteine combination was compared with N -acetylcysteine/normal saline combination (OR, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.34 to 1.37). A subgroup analysis limited to published trials showed similar results (OR, 0.26; 95% CI, 0.10 to 0.64; I 2 = 63.3%), whereas unpublished studies showed a nonsignificant decrease (OR, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.46 to 1.57; I 2 = 25.9%) in risk of contrast-induced nephropathy. Limitation Publication bias and heterogeneity. Conclusion Hydration with sodium bicarbonate decreases the incidence of contrast-induced nephropathy in comparison to hydration with normal saline without a significant difference in need for renal replacement therapy and in-hospital mortality. Larger studies analyzing patient-centered outcomes are needed.
Strategies for computations in Hamiltonian QCD

Abstract We propose solutions to issues arising when computing wavefunctions in Hamiltonian QCD. These include: 1) basis states on the SU(3) manifold that are good at any coupling; 2) working with gauge-fixed and unfixed Hamiltonians; 3) use of the Lanczos method and cluster descriptions to control the number of states on large lattices.
Quantitative descriptions of ice formation mechanisms of silver iodide-type aerosols

Abstract Laboratory and numerical cloud model experiments were designed to obtain quantitative data describing ice formation by two specific aerosols used operationally for cloud modification. Experimental methodologies and a quantitative framework for predicting ice formation by these silver iodidebased aerosols were based on four currently accepted nucleation mechanisms (modes) and their inherent dependencies on the varied temperature, pressure, humidity, and cloud conditions that can be encountered in the atmosphere. The processes considered were deposition, condensation freezing, contact freezing and immersion freezing nucleation. Particle size dependencies were also quantified. The Colorado State University dynamic (controlled expansion) cloud chamber was used to reproduce atmospheric cloud conditions experimentally. An adiabatic cloud model was adapted for equivalent simulation of cloud chamber experiments. Hydrophobic AgIAgCl and hygroscopic AgIAgCl4NaCl aerosols were found to function by some combination of all four nucleation mechanisms. AgIAgCl aerosols were found to be potentially most efficient as contact freezing nuclei, but slow collision rates between IN and cloud droplets permit deposition and condensation freezing nucleation to become important for many cloud conditions. Condensation freezing was seen to progressively dominate ice formation when AgIAgCl aerosols were exposed to increasing supersaturation with respect to water in the typical atmospheric range (up to 1%). Immersion freezing nucleation was always less efficient than contact freezing. The hygroscopic AgIAgCl4NaCl aerosols displayed deposition and condensation freezing active site densities about one order of magnitude higher than the AgIAgClaerosols, while contact freezing activity was not discemable. Immersion freezing could be as important or more important than condensation freezing nucleation for these hygroscopic aerosols depending on cloud characteristics and how aerosols are released into cloud. Instantaneous exposure of either ice nucleus aerosol to high water supersaturations caused the dominance of the immersion freezing mechanism. Quantitative results were formulated for use in numerical cloud modeling. Ice crystal formation subsequently predicted in cloud model simulations showed good agreement with ice formation measured in cloud chamber simulations of relevant cloud seeding methodologies.
Enantiospecific synthesis of vicinal stereogenic tertiary and quaternary centers by combination of configurationally-trapped radical pairs in crystalline solids.

Photochemical irradiation of crystalline (2R,4S)-2-carbomethoxy-4-cyano-2,4-diphenyl-3-butanone 1 led to highly efficient decarbonylation reactions. Experiments with optically pure and racemic crystals showed that the intermediate radical pairs undergo a highly diastereo- and enantiospecific radical−radical combination that leads to the formation of two adjacent stereogenic centers in good chemical yield and with high chemical control. Reactions with chiral crystals occurred with quantitative enantiomeric yields and >95% diastereomeric yields.
Literacy, Numeracy and Computer Literacy

(1983). Literacy, Numeracy and Computer Literacy. Journal of Further and Higher Education: Vol. 7, No. 2, pp. 37-43.
Selective desensitization of serotonin (5-HT) receptor-mediated hyperthermia by mianserin and other 5-HT antagonists.

Abstract Hyperthermic responses to 6-chloro-2-(l-piperazinyl)-pyrazine (MK-212) and hypothermic responses to 8-hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylanuno)tetralin (8-OH-DPAT) were assessed in rats as an in vivo index of the responsiveness of 5-HT 2 and 5-HTi 1A receptors, respectively. Forty-eight hours after a single injection of mianserin, there was a shift to the right in the dose-response relationship for MK-212-induced hyperthermia. The hyperthermic response to MK-212 was attenuated 1 hr and 48 hr (but not 8, 24 or 96 hr) after the administration of mianserin. The hyperthermic effect of 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5MeODMT) also was diminished 48 hr after administration of mianserin. However, mianserin did not alter the hypothermic response to 8-OH-DPAT. A diminished hyperthermic effect of MK-212 also was observed 48 hr after a single injection of loxapine, methysergide, pizotifen and ketanserin. It is concluded that there is a selective decrease in the responsiveness of the 5-HT 2 receptors mediating MK-212-induced hyperthermia, 48 hr after a single injection of mianserin or other selected 5-HT antagonists. Moreover, MK-212-induced hyperthermia appears to be a functional measure of the reported decrease in the number of 5-HT 2 receptors, 48 hr after a single injection of mianserin.
Optimal Pellet Geometries for Thermoelectric Refrigeration Under Robin Boundary Conditions

Thermoelectric refrigeration offers advantages (e.g., lack of any moving parts) over other refrigeration technologies. However, because maximum performance (i.e., head load for a specified temperature drop below ambient temperature) and efficiency (i.e., coefficient of performance) are relatively low, it is important to realize them to the extent possible. Here it is shown that although the cross-sectional area of the semiconductor pellets in a thermoelectric module (TEM) does not affect performance or efficiency, it may be sized to tune TEM operating current and voltage. Then, a procedure is provided to determine the (unique) height of the semiconductor pellets and corresponding current flux through them which maximize performance. Next, it is shown that a range of pellet heights accommodates a specified performance below the maximum one and a procedure is provided to compute that corresponding to maximum efficiency. A Robin (thermal resistance) boundary condition is applied between the interface where Peltier cooling in a TEM occurs and the control point where a TEM maintains the temperature of a component or medium below ambient temperature. Robin boundary conditions are also applied between the control point and its local ambient and the interface in a TEM where Peltier heating occurs and its local ambient. The analysis is generalized by using flux based quantities where applicable and the electrical contact resistance at the interconnects in a TEM is accounted for. Flow of heat and charge are considered one-dimensional.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Transcriptional regulation of pituitary synthesis and secretion of growth hormone in growing wethers and the influence of zeranol on these mechanisms.

This experiment evaluated relationships between pituitary messenger RNA levels of the transcription factor Pit-1, the growth hormone releasing-hormone receptor (GHRHR), and synthesis and secretion of GH in growing wethers. The experiment also evaluated the influence of the estrogenic compound, zeranol, on these relationships. Seventy wethers that were 9.5 +/- 1 day of age were randomly assigned to a control group or to one of three zeranol treatment groups that were implanted (12 mg, Ralgro) at 0, 45, and (or) 90 days of age. Twenty-eight days after implantation (i.e., Days 28, 73, 118) and on Day 135, sera were collected serially from wethers (n > or = 5) from each group and then their pituitary was collected. As wethers gained weight with age, the pituitary increased in size and so did the relative message levels of Pit-1 and GH (effect of time, P < 0.01). However, as wethers reached 135 days of age, serum concentrations of GH had declined while concentrations of IGF-I had increased (linear contrast, P < 0.01). Additionally, zeranol increased serum concentrations of GH and IGF-I and this effect on GH appeared to be a consequence of increased pulse amplitude, particularly at 73 and 118 days of age (treatment x time, P </= 0.074). This result could have been due to increased pituitary expression of GH (treatment, P < 0.08). Zeranol appeared to modulate pituitary expression of transcripts containing exon 3 of Pit-1 (treatment, P < 0.01) and GHRHR (treatment x time, P = 0.056), however, pituitary message levels of Pit-1 and GHRHR were not positively correlated to pituitary expression of GH mRNA or serum concentrations of GH.