cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Association of tetraspanin CD9 with transmembrane TGFα confers alterations in cell-surface presentation of TGFα and cytoskeletal organization

Ligand presentation is a major determinant of receptor activation. The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), a tyrosine kinase receptor, is activated by growth factors of the transforming growth factor α (TGFα) family. The tetraspanin CD9 interacts with transmembrane TGFα and decreases its ectodomain shedding to release soluble TGFα. Here we report that CD9 has a role in the maturation of transmembrane TGFα and its stabilization at the cell surface, and in the cell-surface distribution in polarized epithelial cells. Furthermore, coexpression of CD9 and TGFα confers changes in cytoskeletal organization with a decrease in actin stress fibers and focal adhesions, and changes in RhoA and Rac1 GTPase activity. These alterations are reversed by blocking EGFR signaling. Finally, we demonstrate changes in cell adhesion and migration resulting from coexpression of TGFα with CD9. These results provide insight into the role of CD9 in the presentation of TGFα in epithelial and carcinoma cells, whose physiology is driven by ligand-induced EGFR activation.
A Study of Reasons for Participation in Continuing Professional Education in the U.S. Nuclear Power Industry.

The need for workers in the U.S. nuclear power industry to continually update their knowledge, skills, and abilities is critical to the safe and reliable operation of the country's nuclear power facilities. To improve their skills, knowledge, and abilities, many professionals in the nuclear power industry participate in continuing professional education (CPE). This study investigates participation in CPE using the Participation Reasons Scale (Grotel-ueschen, 1985), a 30-item self-report instrument that measures five dimensions or reasons for participation in continuing professional education. Professional Development ranked as the most important reason for participating in continuing professional education. Identity and Commitment ranked as the least important reason for participating. All reasons for voluntary participation were found to be significantly different (higher) than corresponding compulsory reasons for participation in CPE.
Leveraging Web-Based Environments for Mass Atrocity Prevention

A growing literature exploring large-scale, identity-based political violence, including mass killing and genocide, debates the plausibility of, and prospects for, early warning and prevention. An extension of the debate involves the prospects for creating educational experiences that result in more sophisticated analytical products that enhance preventive policy action. This article details an attempt to bridge the theory to practice gap. It describes the role of a simulation COUNTRY X within the educational contexts of both a graduate course in prevention of mass killing and genocide at Columbia University's School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA), and a practitioner training workshop designed for regional conflict early warning analysts in Africa. The authors review educational theory describing problem-based learning and apply it to a web-based educational simulation. Using a recent training of professional conflict early warning analysts as their case study, they explore several assumptions regarding the utility of simulated environments as educational tools in moving from theory to practice. Use of the simulation resulted in active and engaged participation by learners, increased capacity for well-reasoned perspective taking, and improved analytical confidence in complex scenarios.
Clinical Evaluation of the Spine Patient

Evaluation of a patient with back symptoms such as pain or neuropathy can be challenging. In this chapter we outline features of the patient’ s history, physical examination, and diagnostic imaging studies used to evaluate the symptoms. Several common spinal disorders are outlined, and a review of diagnostic and radiologic tests follows.
An Inter-View on Motherhood: Racial Politics and Motherhood in Late Capitalist Sport:

This article explores Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) player, Jackie Moore's experience as a celebrity sport mother and my experience interviewing her. I use reflexive auto-ethnograp...
The financial impact of loyalty programs in the hotel industry: A social exchange theory perspective

Abstract With increased competition across the hotel industry for frequent travelers, who generate a disproportionate portion of revenue, loyalty programs appear to be a rational response to the competitive environment. The question remains, however, as to whether these programs are effective at increasing the profitability of hotel operators. This study analyzes the impact of customer loyalty programs on the industry specific performance metrics of occupancy rate, revenue, and operating margin. Utilizing a comprehensive database of 36 different hotel brands (e.g., Marriot, Hilton) encompassing 31 loyalty programs and 435 different hotel properties, we examine whether a loyalty program is indeed an effective tool to increase operating margin. In summary, empirical results suggest that investment in hotel loyalty programs has a positive impact on occupancy rates and profitability. And although the overall effect is modest, these results have several managerial implications for the hotel industry.
Automatic Simplification of Obfuscated JavaScript Code (Extended Abstract)

Javascript is a scripting language that is commonly used to create sophisticated interactive client-side web applications. It can also be used to carry out browser-based attacks on users. Malicious JavaScript code is usually highly obfuscated, making detection a challenge. This paper describes a simple approach to deobfuscation of JavaScript code based on dynamic analysis and slicing. Experiments using a prototype implementation indicate that our approach is able to penetrate multiple layers of complex obfuscations and extract the core logic of the computation.
A possible mechanism of rapid luteolysis in white‐footed mice, Peromyscus leucopus

Adult female white-footed mice, Peromyscus leucopus, were exposed to long (LP) or short (SP) photoperiods for 6 weeks (experiment I). Another group of animals was kept for 6 weeks in SP, then injected SC with 30 micrograms prolactin twice daily for 2, 3, 4, or 6 days (experiment II). Ovaries from the mice in both experiments were weighed and serially sectioned for light microscopic examination of regressing corpora lutea. In experiment I, it was observed that vessels supporting corpora lutea were dilated, and that their endothelium was either undergoing necrosis or it was missing. Pronounced changes of luteal capillaries led to rupture and intraluteal hemorrhage, thus opening the capillary bed. Regressing luteal cells became segregated and seemed to invade the vascular system passively. They were seen as luteal cell thrombi in medullary veins. This luteolytic course termed "rapid luteolysis" was most apparent in SP ovaries. It differed from "retarded luteolysis," which represents the well-established luteolytic model of auto- and heterophagocytosis. In experiment II, there was a statistically significant decrease in ovarian weight 4 days after prolactin treatment in comparison with saline-treated controls. At the light microscopic level, signs of both rapid and retarded luteolysis were present, but not intensified. It is concluded: (1) The concept of rapid luteolysis represents a reasonable working hypothesis. (2) Prolactin, though luteolytic at the macroscopic level, failed to produce evidence of increased rapid or retarded luteolysis at the light microscopic level.
Throwing Patterns of Older Adults: A Follow-up Investigation

Previous investigations ofthe movement patterns ofolder adults have focused on functional movements. Performance declines have been reported with increasing age. Many investigations, however, do not require older adults to perform maximal, force producing actions. Smaller declines might be ob­ served if older adults made a maximal effort. This investigation examined changes in a maximal skill-the overarm throw for force. Active, older adults were videotaped as they threw tennis balls. Thirteen people were filmed for two consecutive years. Gender and age differences were examined for move­ ment patterns, ball velocity, and selected kinematic measures. Participants threw using patterns and velocities generally observed in children in middle t, elementary-school years. 'This result suggested there was a decline in this force production skill. Some older adults regressed in tbe movement pattems they used over the two years of testing. Older males threw faster, using more advanced movement patterns than older females.
Data access reorganizations in compiling out-of-core data parallel programs on distributed memory machines

This paper describes optimization techniques for translating out-of-core programs written in a data parallel language to message passing node programs with explicit parallel I/O. We demonstrate that straightforward extension of in-core compilation techniques does not work well for out-of-core programs. We then describe how the compiler can optimize the code by (1) determining appropriate file layouts for out-of-core arrays, (2) permuting the loops in the nest(s) to allow efficient file access, and (3) partitioning the available node memory among references based on I/O cost estimation. Our experimental results indicate that these optimizations can reduce the amount of time spent in I/O by as much as an order of magnitude.
Dose- and time-dependent estradiol modulation of morphine antinociception in adult female rats

To clarify the activational role of ovarian hormones on pain and analgesia, the present study determined whether estradiol (E2) modulation of nociception and morphine antinociception in adult female rats depends on (1) the dose of E2 and (2) the interval between E2 treatment and nociceptive testing. Female rats were ovariectomized (OvX) and either oil vehicle (0), or E2 (0.25, 2.5 or 25 microg/0.1 ml vehicle) was injected s.c. two consecutive days of every four days for five cycles before testing. Either 4, 24, 48 or 96 h after the last injection, nociception was evaluated on the 50 degrees C hotplate and warm water tail withdrawal tests before and after escalating doses of s.c. morphine. Lordosis behavior and uterine weight were assessed in other rats at the same E2 doses and time points. E2 significantly lengthened latency to respond on the hotplate test at 24 h after the last injection, but had no significant effect on tail withdrawal latencies. The lower doses of E2 significantly increased morphine antinociceptive potency at 4-24 h on one or both tests, but the intermediate E2 dose significantly decreased morphine potency at 48 h on the hotplate test. Thus, E2 modulation of morphine antinociception in the adult female rat is bidirectional, and occurs at E2 doses producing cyclic changes in sexual behavior, uterine weight and vaginal cytology that are similar to those observed in gonadally intact, cycling females.
Helios Induces Epigenetic Silencing of Il2 Gene Expression in Regulatory T Cells

Regulatory T cells (Tregs) play a critical role in maintaining immune tolerance and preventing autoimmune disease. Tregs express the transcription factor Foxp3, which acts as a master regulator of their differentiation and controls their capacity to suppress T cell responses. Tregs have an intrinsically anergic phenotype and do not produce IL-2 or proliferate upon stimulation ex vivo. Recent studies identified that Helios, a member of the Ikaros family of transcription factors, is expressed in Tregs. However, its specific function is not fully understood. In this study, we show that Helios regulates IL-2 production in Tregs by suppressing Il2 gene transcription. Loss of Helios in Tregs breaks their anergic phenotype and results in derepression of the Il2 locus, allowing Tregs to display increased baseline proliferation and to produce IL-2 following stimulation. Conversely, forced expression of Helios in CD4(+)Foxp3(-) T cells results in a loss of their normal ability to produce IL-2. Helios acts by binding to the Il2 promoter and inducing epigenetic modifications that include histone deacetylation. We also show that loss of Helios in Tregs results in decreased Foxp3 binding to the Il2 promoter, indicating that Helios promotes binding of Foxp3 to the Il2 promoter. Interestingly, the loss of Helios in Tregs also causes a decrease in suppressive capacity. Our results identify Helios as a key regulator of Il2 expression in Tregs, contributing to the maintenance of the anergic phenotype.
Ecological expected utility and the mythical neural code

Neural spikes are an evolutionarily ancient innovation that remains nature’s unique mechanism for rapid, long distance information transfer. It is now known that neural spikes sub serve a wide variety of functions and essentially all of the basic questions about the communication role of spikes have been answered. Current efforts focus on the neural communication of probabilities and utility values involved in decision making. Significant progress is being made, but many framing issues remain. One basic problem is that the metaphor of a neural code suggests a communication network rather than a recurrent computational system like the real brain. We propose studying the various manifestations of neural spike signaling as adaptations that optimize a utility function called ecological expected utility.
Management of asymptomatic, severe mitral regurgitation

In chronic, severe mitral regurgitation (MR), cardiac function can remain well compensated and patients can remain asymptomatic for many years. Eventually, in most patients, the originally favorable loading conditions give way to unfavorable remodeling, which results in left ventricular (LV) dysfunction and dilation, and ultimately symptoms of pulmonary congestion. Symptomatic, chronic severe MR is a clear indication for surgical correction. However, the optimal management of asymptomatic patients is less clear. While asymptomatic severe MR patients who have developed LV dysfunction or LV dilation warrant surgery, the decision to operate without these findings hinges on the presence of other clinical sequelae, such as atrial arrhythmias and pulmonary hypertension, and on the likelihood of successful mitral valve repair. Controversy exists as to the optimal approach to patients without any of these objective triggers, with some evidence supporting earlier prophylactic surgery and other evidence supporting a “watch and wait” approach. It is our conviction that in absence of an established guideline-based indication for surgical correction, for most asymptomatic patients with chronic severe MR, the preferred approach is close monitoring with serial echocardiography for development of symptoms or other clinical sequelae. However, it is reasonable to consider earlier surgical correction in select asymptomatic patients in whom there is a high likelihood of successful mitral valve repair. In this paper, we comprehensively review all guideline-based management of asymptomatic chronic severe MR, and discuss new evidence that impacts clinical decision-making in these patients.
Maitland's Vertebral Manipulation, ed 7

Maitland G, Hengeveld E, Banks K, English K, eds. Philadelphia PA 19103, Elsevier Butterworth Heinemann, 2005, paperback, 496 pp, illus, ISBN: 0-7506-8806-8, $84. [Minimum system requirements for CD-ROM: Windows: Windows 98, 2000, NT, ME, or XP operating system or the Mac OS 9.1+ operating system, 126 MB RAM, 1024 × 768 pixel screen resolution, millions of colors. Quick Time 6 is required to view the video clips.] This is the seventh edition of Geoff Maitland's classic text. This edition's text is identical to the sixth edition that was published in 2000, except that photographs have replaced the line drawings and a CD-ROM is included. Throughout the book, key concepts are highlighted for emphasis. This feature allows the reader to quickly and easily reference important information later on. The book consists of 15 chapters, 5 appendixes, a bibliography, and an index. References are also cited throughout the text. As in earlier editions, a glossary is placed in the beginning of the text so that the reader will be clear about what they are reading. The first chapter serves as an introduction to the concepts. The second chapter is written from the physician's viewpoint and touches on those patients who may have nonmusculoskeletal pathology and the indications or …
A comparison of speciated atmospheric mercury at an urban center and an upwind rural location

Gaseous elemental mercury (GEM), particulate mercury (PHg) and reactive gaseous mercury (RGM) were measured every other hour at a rural location in south central Wisconsin (Devil’s Lake State Park, WI, USA) between April 2003 and March 2004, and at a predominantly downwind urban site in southeastern Wisconsin (Milwaukee, WI, USA) between June 2004 and May 2005. Annual averages of GEM, PHg, and RGM at the urban site were statistically higher than those measured at the rural site. Pollution roses of GEM and reactive mercury (RM; sum of PHg and RGM) at the rural and urban sites revealed the influences of point source emissions in surrounding counties that were consistent with the US EPA 1999 National Emission Inventory and the 2003–2005 US EPA Toxics Release Inventory. Source-receptor relationships at both sites were studied by quantifying the impacts of point sources on mercury concentrations. Time series of GEM, PHg, and RGM concentrations were sorted into two categories; time periods dominated by impacts from point sources, and time periods dominated by mercury from non-point sources. The analysis revealed average point source contributions to GEM, PHg, and RGM concentration measurements to be significant over the year long studies. At the rural site, contributions to annual average concentrations were: GEM (2%; 0.04 ng m–3); and, RM (48%; 5.7 pg m–3). At the urban site, contributions to annual average concentrations were: GEM (33%; 0.81 ng m–3); and, RM (64%; 13.8 pg m–3).
A Simple Colorimetric Assay of Ionic Liquid Hydrolytic Stability

We describe a simple colorimetric method that can be used to assess the relative intrinsic hydrolytic stabilities of water-miscible and water-immiscible ionic liquids.
Kenneth Frank Baker--pioneer leader in plant pathology.

Kenneth F. Baker (1908–1996) made major contributions to understanding diseases of ornamental plants, seed pathology, soilborne plant pathogens, biological control, and history of plant pathology. His work set the stage for the success of today's ornamentals and nursery industries. His leadership and writings created the scientific framework for research and teaching on soilborne plant pathogens and biological control. After B.Sc. and Ph.D. degrees from Washington State University in 1930 and 1934, respectively, and one year as a National Research Council Fellow with B.M. Dugger at Wisconsin, he took jobs in 1935 with the U.S. Department of Agriculture in Nebraska on establishment of shelter belts and 1936–39 with the Pineapple Producers Cooperative Association in Hawaii. He worked on diseases of ornamental plants at the University of California, Los Angeles, starting in 1939, moving to Berkeley in 1961 when the UCLA program closed. He retired in 1975 and moved to Corvallis, OR, as Emeritus Professor, Ore...
Two types of psychological hedonism

I develop a distinction between two types of psychological hedonism. Inferential hedonism (or "I-hedonism") holds that each person only has ultimate desires regarding his or her own hedonic states (pleasure and pain). Reinforcement hedonism (or "R-hedonism") holds that each person's ultimate desires, whatever their contents are, are differentially reinforced in that person's cognitive system only by virtue of their association with hedonic states. I'll argue that accepting R-hedonism and rejecting I-hedonism provides a conciliatory position on the traditional altruism debate, and that it coheres well with the neuroscientist Anthony Dickinson's theory about the evolutionary function of hedonic states, the "hedonic interface theory." Finally, I'll defend R-hedonism from potential objections.
Diaphragmatic lipid peroxidation in chronically loaded rats

Recent work indicates that free radical-mediated lipid peroxidation takes place within the diaphragm on strenuous contraction. This phenomenon has only been demonstrated using fairly artificial exp...
Computational investigation of flame characteristics of a non-propagating shrub fire

Abstract A three-dimensional multiphase, physics-based model based on large eddy simulation methodology was used to investigate a model shrub fire at a statistically stationary state. Governing equations of the solid phase were modified to achieve this state at which a detailed analysis of the flame and plume is possible through time averaging. The computations were performed for shrub bulk densities ranging from 1 to 6 kg/m 3 and corresponding time-averaged flame heights were recorded. The continuous flame zone, intermittent flame zone and thermal plume region were identified. It was found that flame height scales as the two-fifth power of heat release rate for a mean flame tip temperature of 800 K. The slopes of temperature and velocity profiles along the centerline in the continuous and thermal plume region were consistent with the corresponding slopes for buoyant diffusion flames over porous burners. First-order and second-order statistics were investigated and it was found that there is a strong correlation between velocity and temperature in the continuous flame region. This strong correlation was attributed to the strong buoyancy accelerations due to combustion of pyrolysis gases from the shrub. Investigation of vortical structures formed in the fire plume showed that strain dominates the flow in the continuous flame region with large scale vortices forming downstream in the plume region.
Ergopeptines bromocriptine and ergovaline and the dopamine type-2 receptor inhibitor domperidone inhibit bovine equilibrative nucleoside transporter 1-like activity.

Neotyphodium coenophialum-infected tall fescue contains ergopeptines. Except for interactions with biogenic amine receptors (e.g., dopamine type-2 receptor, D2R), little is known about how ergopept...
A Reduced-Order Model for Unsteady Flow over Circular Cylinder

Proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) is performed on steady and unsteady ∞ows past a circular cylinder. The unsteady ∞ow considered here is obtained by adding a sinusoidal component to the steady mean ∞ow. The results show that the flrst two modes in both ∞ows are almost identical. On the other hand, the mean ∞ow unsteadiness yields an additional mode. Consequently, the POD-based reduced-order models for the steady ∞ow cannot be readily used to reproduce ∞ow characteristics of the unsteady ∞ow. A reformulation of the reduced-order model that makes use of the POD modes obtained from steady ∞ow and that incorporates unsteadiness parameters is presented.
Reactions of CO2 and CS2 with 1,2-Bis(di-tert-butylphosphino)ethane Complexes of Nickel(0) and Nickel(I)

Reaction of CS(2) with [(dtbpe)Ni](2)(η(2),μ-C(6)H(6)) (1; dtbpe =1,2-bis(di-tert-butylphosphino)ethane) in toluene gives the carbon disulfide complex (dtbpe)Ni(η(2)-CS(2)) (2), characterized by standard spectroscopic methods and X-ray crystallography. Reaction of CS(2) with the Ni(I) complex (dtbpe)Ni(OSO(2)CF(3)) gives the diamagnetic, trimetallic cluster [{(dtbpe)Ni(κ(1),η(2)-CS(2))}(2)(dtbpe)Ni][SO(3)CF(3)](2) (3-OTf). The solid-state structure of 3-OTf reveals that the two CS(2) ligands bind η(2) to two (dtbpe)Ni centers and κ(1) to the third, unique (dtbpe)Ni in the complex dication, and NMR spectroscopic data indicate that this structure is maintained in solution. Oxidation of 2 by ferrocenium hexafluorophosphate affords the identical trimetallic complex dication as the PF(6)(-) salt, [{(dtbpe)Ni(κ(1),η(2)-CS(2))}(2)(dtbpe)Ni][PF(6)](2) (3-PF(6)). These results are consistent with the intermediacy of a Ni(I)-CS(2) complex, [(dtbpe)Ni(CS(2))(+)], that is unstable with respect to disproportionation. Reaction of 1 with one equivalent of CO(2) provides the carbon dioxide adduct (dtbpe)Ni(η(2)-CO(2)) (4), that was also crystallographically characterized. Thermolysis of 4 in benzene solution at 80 °C results in reduction of the CO(2) ligand to CO, trapped as (dtbpe)Ni(CO)(2), and partial oxidation of a dtbpe ligand to give O═P(tert-Bu)(2)CH(2)CH(2)P(tert-Bu)(2).
Processing of surrogate nuclear fuel pellets for better dimensional control with dry bag isostatic pressing

Abstract A study of improved methods of processing fuel pellets was undertaken using ceria and zirconia/yttria/alumina as surrogates. Through proper granulation, elimination of fines and vertical vibration (tapping) of the parts bag prior to dry bag isostatic pressing (DBIP), reproducibility of diameter profiles among multiple pellets of ceria was improved by almost an order of magnitude. Reproducibility of sintered pellets in these studies was sufficient to allow pellets to be introduced into the cladding with a gap between the pellet and cladding on the order of 50 μm to 100 μm but not a uniform gap with tolerance of ±12 μm as is currently required. Deviation from the mean diameter along the length of multiple pellets, and deviation from roundness, decreased after sintering. This is not generally observed with dry pressed pellets. Sintered shrinkage was uniform to ±0.05% and thus, as an alternative, pellets may be machined to tolerance before sintering, thus avoiding the waste associated with post-sinter grinding.
Numerical modeling of extended short wave infrared InGaAs focal plane arrays

Indium gallium arsenide (In 1−x Ga x As) is an ideal material choice for short wave infrared (SWIR) imaging due to its low dark current and excellent collection efficiency. By increasing the indium composition from 53% to 83%, it is possible to decrease the energy gap from 0.74 eV to 0.47 eV and consequently increase the cutoff wavelength from 1.7 μm to 2.63 μm for extended short wavelength (ESWIR) sensing. In this work, we apply our well-established numerical modeling methodology to the ESWIR InGaAs system to determine the intrinsic performance of pixel detectors. Furthermore, we investigate the effects of different buffer/cap materials. To accomplish this, we have developed composition-dependent models for In 1−x Ga x As, In 1−x Al x As, and InAs 1−y P y . Using a Green’s function formalism, we calculate the intrinsic recombination coefficients (Auger, radiative) to model the diffusion-limited behavior of the absorbing layer under ideal conditions. Our simulations indicate that, for a given total thickness of the buffer and absorbing layer, structures utilizing a linearly graded small-gap InGaAs buffer will produce two orders of magnitude more dark current than those with a wide gap, such as InAlAs or InAsP. Furthermore, when compared with experimental results for ESWIR photodiodes and arrays, we estimate that there is still a 1.5x magnitude of reduction in dark current before reaching diffusion-limited behavior.
Anomalous equilibrium binding properties of high-affinity racemic radioligands.

In receptor binding studies, high-affinity racemic radioligands are often used as tracers, neglecting the difference in affinity of their stereoisomers. We present an experimental and theoretical study comparing the binding of (±)-[3H]carazolol and (±)-[125I]hydroxy-benzylpindolol (HYP) to their pure respective isomers in the frog erythrocyte beta-adrenergic system. Saturation binding curves with the racemic radioligands showed deviations from a binding isotherm for a single ligand which were accentuated at higher receptor concentrations. When different affinity constants for both isomers were considered, significant improvement in the fits of the data were obtained by computer-modeling procedures. The KDav (average dissociation constant) obtained by considering the racemic radioligand as a single ligand, as has generally been done in the literature, varied with the receptor concentration from approximately 2 KD(-) at low receptor concentrations to ≅0.5 KD(+) at high receptor concentrations. Thus the generally measured "KDav" of these racemic radioligands is really a hybrid of KD(-) and KD(+). These experimental findings are in very good agreement with Monte Carlo simulations and may help to explain the discrepancies in dissociation constants of high-affinity racemic radioligands reported in the literature. Experimental data and simulations also indicate that information about the KD(-) is greatest at low receptor concentrations, whereas that about KD(+) is greatest at high receptor concentrations. Simultaneous computer fitting of saturation curves from racemic [125I]HYP and the (+)-isomer, isolated by repeated incubations with frog erythrocyte membranes under appropriate conditions, indicates approximately a 20-fold ratio for the individual isomer KD values. Estimated KD values of the stereoisomers of [125I]HYP and [3H]carazolol were virtually identical, being KD(-) = 10-50 pM and KD(+) ≅ 400-2000 pM at 25°. Use of the KDav for a racemic radioligand resulted in up to 5-fold systematic underestimation of the affinity of nonracemic competitors. The KD values of all high-affinity competitors were also found to be misestimated by as much as 10-fold using the commonly employed Cheng and Prusoff [Biochem. Pharmacol.22: 3099-3108 (1973)] approximation when the affinity of the radioligand was significantly lower than that of the competitor. Under such circumstances, slope factors of ≅2 were obtained for competition curves in the absence of cooperativity.
Myocardial protection in the neonatal heart: A comparison of topical hypothermia and crystalloid and blood cardioplegic solutions

Myocardial protection achieved during 2 hours of ischemic arrest was evaluated in 45 isolated, blood perfused, neonatal (1 to 5 days) piglet hearts. Comparisons were made among five methods of myocardial protection: Group I, topical cooling; Group II, hyperosmolar (450 mOsm) low-calcium (0.5 mmol/L) crystalloid cardioplegia; Group III, St. Thomas’ Hospital cardioplegia; Group IV, cold blood cardioplegia with potassium (21 mmol/L), citrate-phosphate-dextrose (calcium level 0.6 mmol/L), and tromethamine; and Group V, cold blood cardioplegia with potassium alone (16 mmol/L) (calcium level 1.2 mmol/L). Hemodynamic recovery (percent of the preischemic stroke work) after 30 and 60 minutes of reperfusion was 82.9% and 86.7% in Group I, 35.7% (p
Designing microgames for assessment: a case study in rapid prototype iteration

In contrast to the trend toward large scale, immersive games that aspire toward the polish and experience of conventional commercial games, the authors offer a design case study for the potential of microgames and assessment. Microgames are designed to be small, pointed experiences more analogous to a single question than an entire exam. Instead of offering diverse mechanics, microgames are small punctuated play experiences. Microgames are rapidly developed games, targeting a relatively narrow set of skills. It is speculated that microgame based assessments can support contextualized, focused interaction that allows for situated decisions within a relatively short time frame. This paper outlines the design heuristics learned in a collaborative project to develop microgames for assessment between a major testing and assessment organization and their academic partner.
Gelastic Epilepsy and Hypothalamic Hamartoma

The causes, clinical manifestations, and evolution of gelastic seizures (GS) were studied, using video-EEG and MRI, in 9 patients observed between 1986 and 1997 at the Epilepsy Center, Federico II University, Naples, Italy.
The North American opioid epidemic: current challenges and a call for treatment as prevention.

There is a need for creative, public health-oriented solutions to the increasingly intractable problems associated with the North American opioid epidemic. This epidemic is a fundamentally continental problem, as routes of migration, drug demand, and drug exchange link the USA with Mexico and Canada. The challenges faced throughout North America include entrenched prescribing practices of opioid medications, high costs and low availability of medication-assisted treatment (MAT), and policy approaches that present substantial barriers to care. We advocate for the scale up of a low-threshold treatment model for MAT that incorporates the best practices in addiction treatment. Such a model would remove barriers to care through widespread treatment availability and affordability and also a policy of decriminalization. Given that MAT reduces the frequency of drug injecting among opioid injectors, this treatment model should also be guided by an understanding of the socially communicable nature of injection drug use, such that increasing MAT availability may also prevent the spread of injecting practices to individuals at risk of transitions from non-injection to injection drug use. To that end, the “Treatment as Prevention” model employed to respond to the individual- and population-level risks for HIV/AIDS prevention could be adapted to efforts to halt the North American opioid epidemic.
Bacterial Size: Can’t Escape the Long Arm of the Law

Environmental perturbations can lead to changes in bacterial cell size that are not predicted by current models. A recent study presents a model that accurately predicts cell size under a variety of environmental conditions, from just a few measurable variables.
Diagnosis and Management of Primary Phlebolymphedema

Phlebolymphedema (PLE) is the condition of combined insufficiency of both the venous and lymphatic systems of various etiologies. Primary PLE is a concomitant disruption of both the venous and lymphatic systems. The pathology is a result of a «hemolymphatic» malformation, and although the pathology is not well understood, diagnosis and proper clinical evaluation can improve outcomes. Phlebolymphedema can be managed more effectively when open and/or endovascular therapy is added to the basic compression therapy to control the CVI and CLI together. Primary PLE with CVI by the reflux of MV can be treated successfully with MV resection, while CVI by deep vein dysplasia can be treated with conventional compression therapy alone in the majority of cases.
A Comparison Study of Quality Attributes of Ground Beef and Veal Patties and Thermal Inactivation of Escherichia coli O157:H7 after Double Pan-Broiling Under Dynamic Conditions.

This study compared the quality variation and thermal inactivation of Escherichia coli O157:H7 in non-intact beef and veal. Coarse ground beef and veal patties (2.1 cm thick, 12.4 cm diameter, 180 g) inoculated with E. coli O157:H7, aerobically stored before double pan-broiling for 0–360 s without rest or to 55, 62.5, 71.1, and 76 °C (internal temperature) with 0.5- or 3.5-min rest. Microbial population and qualities including color, cooking losses, pH, water activity, fat, and moisture content, were tested. After cooking the beef and veal patties, the weight losses were 17.83–29%, the pH increased from 5.53–5.60 to 5.74–6.09, the moisture content decreased from 70.53–76.02% to 62.60–67.07%, and the fat content increased (p 6 log CFU/g regardless of rest time. Cooking to 55 °C and 62.5 °C with a 3.5-min rest achieved an additional 1–3 log CFU/g reduction compared to the 0.5-min rest. Results should be useful for developing risk assessment of non-intact beef and veal products.
Acquisition of Complex Conditional Discriminations in a Child with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder have been reported to demonstrate stimulus overselectivity or restricted stimulus control (i.e., failure to respond to all critical elements of complex stimuli). This potential may have a detrimental impact on the acquisition of academic skills for these individuals if the stimuli in question contain multiple controlling elements. The current study presents a number of methodologies by which attention to, and the subsequent control by, multiple elements of a complex stimulus was demonstrated. The participant in this study was a 10-year-old girl diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. She was taught to select both printed word and picture comparisons, in the presence of complex sample stimuli comprised of visual and auditory elements, via an errorless learning protocol. Specifically, sample stimuli included manual American Sign Language (ASL) signs and the name of the sign. Following training, tests conducted in the absence of programed feedback verified accurate control by each sample element, as well as emergent stimulus-stimulus relations. No evidence of stimulus overselectivity was demonstrated during posttests. This study demonstrated an efficient methodology for forming stimulus classes through complex conditional discrimination training.
Efficient probabilistic grammar induction for design

The use of grammars in design and analysis has been set back by the lack of automated ways to induce them from arbitrarily structured datasets. Machine translation methods provide a construct for inducing grammars from coded data which have been extended to be used for design through pre-coded design data. This work introduces a four-step process for inducing grammars from un-coded structured datasets which can constitute a wide variety of data types, including many used in the design. The method includes: (1) extracting objects from the data, (2) forming structures from objects, (3) expanding structures into rules based on frequency, and (4) finding rule similarities that lead to consolidation or abstraction. To evaluate this method, grammars are induced from generated data, architectural layouts and three-dimensional design models to demonstrate that this method offers usable grammars automatically which are functionally similar to grammars produced by hand.
Explosion limits of hydrogen-oxygen mixtures from nonequilibrium critical points.

The explosion limits of hydrogen–oxygen mixtures are macroscopic, temperature–pressure boundaries that divide the overall chemistry of hydrogen oxidation into slow-burning and explosive regimes. Here, we demonstrate that it is possible to recover the three chemical explosion limits of H2/O2 mixtures from nonequilibrium stochastic trajectories. This demonstration relies on the finding that, in explosive regimes, these trajectories have the quantitative features of a dynamical phase transition. Through computer simulations for both a generic and a reduced model for hydrogen oxidation, we find only one dominant reactive phase at temperatures below the explosion limits. At temperatures above the limits, however, a second phase transiently emerges from the chemistry. By locating the pseudo-critical temperature where two reactive phases are distinguishable, we construct all three explosion-limit boundaries for model hydrogen–oxygen mixtures of finite size.
A prospective trial of acute normovolemic hemodilution in patients undergoing primary cytoreductive surgery for advanced ovarian cancer.

Abstract Objectives Our objective was to determine the safety and efficacy of acute normovolemic hemodilution (ANH) to reduce the requirement for allogenic red blood cell (RBC) transfusions in patients undergoing primary cytoreduction for advanced ovarian cancer. Methods Patients undergoing primary cytoreduction for advanced ovarian cancer were enrolled in a prospective trial assessing ANH at time of surgery. Intraoperative blood withdrawal was performed to a target hemoglobin of 8.0 g/dL. A standardized transfusion protocol first using autologous then allogenic blood was applied intraoperatively and throughout hospitalization according to institutional guidelines. The primary endpoint was to determine the overall rate of allogenic RBC transfusions in the intra- and postoperative periods. A predetermined allogenic RBC transfusion rate Results Forty-one patients consented to participate. Median blood withdrawn during ANH was 1650 mL (range, 700–3000). Cytoreductive outcomes were as follows: 0 mm, 30 (73%); 1–10 mm, 8 (20%); and >10 mm, 3 (7%) residual disease. Estimated blood loss was 1000 mL (range, 150–2700). Fourteen patients (34%) received allogenic RBC transfusions intra- or postoperatively, meeting the primary endpoint. No patients were transfused outside protocol guidelines. The rate of ≥grade 3 complications (20%) and anastomotic leaks (7%) were similar to historical controls and met predefined safety thresholds. Conclusions For patients with advanced ovarian cancer undergoing primary cytoreductive surgery, ANH appears to reduce allogenic RBC transfusion rates versus historical controls without increasing perioperative complications. Further evaluation of the technique is warranted.
Performance Models for Large Scale Multi-Agent System: A Distributed Pomdp-Based Approach

Given a large group of cooperative agents, selecting the right coordination or conflict resolution strategy can have a significant impact on their performance (e.g., speed of convergence). While performance models of such coordination or conflict resolution strategies could aid in selecting the right strategy for a given domain, such models remain largely uninvestigated in the multiagent literature. This chapter takes a step towards applying the recently emerging distributed POMDP (partially observable Markov decision process) frameworks, such as MTDP (Markov team decision process), in service of creating such performance models. A strategy is mapped onto an MTDP policy, and strategies are compared by evaluating their corresponding policies. To address issues of scale-up in applying the distributed POMDP-based models, we use small-scale models, called building blocks that represent the local interaction among a small group of agents. We discuss several ways to combine building blocks for performance prediction of a larger-scale multiagent system.
What We Teach Is Who We Are: The Stories of Our Lives

The author begins this essay with recognition that educators bring their own visions of subject matter, of children, and of the larger world, into the tasks of curriculum development and teaching. These visions come through a filter of personal values, which are often illustrated in the stories educators tell themselves and others, so examining those stories can be a way to heighten awareness of values. The author suggests, however, that awareness is insufficient if one is to go beyond the habitual to the intentional in professional practice, and that teachers need to question their beliefs, recognizing their limitations as well as their possibilities. To exemplify this process, the author shares stories that reveal some of her own visions—of dance, of young children, of the world and people in it—and how these visions have given rise to what and how she teaches. She also explores limitations to her visions and internal conflicts in the values underlying them, noting that sometimes reflection affirms one’s current practice and its underlying beliefs and sometimes it challenges them; even when challenged, it may take a while before one knows how to respond. The author concludes by acknowledging the value of professional development in which educators can share and examine their own stories.
RNA Ligase: Picking Up the Pieces

In the current issue of Structure, Ho and coworkers report the crystal structure and mechanism of a T4 RNA ligase. These studies provide valuable insights on the mechanism and origin of RNA and DNA ligases, and RNA capping enzymes.
Modification of a continuous zeolite membrane grown within porous polyethersulfone with Ag(I) cations for enhanced propylene/propane gas separation

Abstract Current commercial methods for propylene propane separation require energy intensive cryogenic distillation. Significant efforts are underway for alternative methods of separation, and include physical and chemical absorption and adsorption, as well as membrane separations. Polymer membranes have been the most extensively studied. Zeolites are mostly studied as adsorption supports, though there have been a few reports of zeolite membranes for propylene propane separation. The chemical bond between the double bond of olefins and Ag(I) and Cu(I) cations have been exploited in the chemically enhanced separation process for olefins and paraffins, using a variety of supports including polymers and zeolites. We have recently reported that continuous faujasitic membranes grown within an hour in porous polyethersulfone supports, and then covered with a thin layer of polydimethoxysilane can separate CO2 and N2. In this study, we examine these membranes for propylene propane separation. The best separation results were obtained at 50 °C, with average propylene propane selectivity of 2.4 ± 0.8, and propylene permeance of 1211 ± 557 GPU. Membranes were also modified by ion-exchanging with two concentrations of Ag(I). Best results were obtained at 75 °C, with average propylene propane selectivity of 4.8 ± 1.8, and propylene permeance of 1016 ± 661 GPU. Comparison with the few studies that have used zeolite membranes indicate that the selectivity in these studies are higher by a factor of 2–3 as compared to the present study, though the permeance is higher in the present study, in some cases by several orders of magnitude.
Using INTERMACS(IM) to Establish Objective Performance Criteria (OPC) for Clinical Trials in “Less Sick” Advanced CHF Patients: An Analysis of the STS IM Database

Purpose Future durable MCS devices are designed to be less invasive, delivered via non-central arterial access and provide partial support. They will be true assist devices and require residual cardiac reserve, ie. the “less sick” advanced CHF population. Lacking equipoise to perform randomized trials with approved LVADs, single arm trials with OPC will be needed to get regulatory approval. This study analyzes IM for completeness and validity and to determine its ability to 1) define the real-world “less sick” patient group and 2) establish OPCs for future MCS trials. Methods Inclusion - IM patients > 45 years, profiles 1-5 and implanted between 2014-2016 with durable LVADs. Patients were stratified into IM1-2 and IM3-5 groups. They were also stratified to real-world sick (S) and less sick (LS) groups using pre-implant hemodynamics (CI 20 mmHg) and the amount of inotropic/temporary MSC support. Survival, transplant rates, adverse events, 6 min walk test and KCCQ were obtained for the 4 groups at 6 and 12 months. Results 6509 patients met inclusion criteria. Patients were grouped into IM1-2 (n=3084), IM3-5 (n=3425), S (n=4026), and LS (n=1808). Re-categorization occurred in 11% from IM1-2 to LS and 43% from IM3-5 to S. 675 patients (10%) could not be placed into the S or LS groups due to lack of pre-implant hemodynamic data. Outcomes (survival, transplanted, death) at 6 and 12 months were similar between the S group and IM1-2 group as well as the LS group and IM3-5 group. Outcomes, adverse events and performance status are reported in table 1. Conclusion Patients in the IM database can be classified by hemodynamic assessment and inotrope/temporary MCS support into a better defined LS patient group than using physician assigned profiles. Interestingly, AEs and outcomes were similar across groups reflecting class effects of current LVADs . IM can be used to establish real-world LS group and OPCs for future single armed MCS trials.
Development of a High-Flow Nasal Cannula and Pharmaceutical Aerosol Combination Device.

Abstract Background: Aerosol drug delivery to the lungs is known to be very inefficient during all forms of noninvasive ventilation, especially when the aerosol is administered simultaneously with ...