cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The use of patient-specific equipoise to support shared decision-making for clinical care and enrollment into clinical trials.

Background To enhance enrollment into randomized clinical trials (RCTs), we proposed electronic health record-based clinical decision support for patient-clinician shared decision-making about care and RCT enrollment, based on "mathematical equipoise." Objectives As an example, we created the Knee Osteoarthritis Mathematical Equipoise Tool (KOMET) to determine the presence of patient-specific equipoise between treatments for the choice between total knee replacement (TKR) and nonsurgical treatment of advanced knee osteoarthritis. Methods With input from patients and clinicians about important pain and physical function treatment outcomes, we created a database from non-RCT sources of knee osteoarthritis outcomes. We then developed multivariable linear regression models that predict 1-year individual-patient knee pain and physical function outcomes for TKR and for nonsurgical treatment. These predictions allowed detecting mathematical equipoise between these two options for patients eligible for TKR. Decision support software was developed to graphically illustrate, for a given patient, the degree of overlap of pain and functional outcomes between the treatments and was pilot tested for usability, responsiveness, and as support for shared decision-making. Results The KOMET predictive regression model for knee pain had four patient-specific variables, and an r 2 value of 0.32, and the model for physical functioning included six patient-specific variables, and an r 2 of 0.34. These models were incorporated into prototype KOMET decision support software and pilot tested in clinics, and were generally well received. Conclusions Use of predictive models and mathematical equipoise may help discern patient-specific equipoise to support shared decision-making for selecting between alternative treatments and considering enrollment into an RCT.
Zur Umsetzung von Forschung in politisches Handeln. Wie kann Evaluierung der Politik nützen

Expertenwissen wurde in der ganzen neueren Geschichte des Westens als die Grundlage von Macht und Legitimitat burokratischer Organisationen betrachtet. Die fachliche „Expertise“ entstammt den technischen Fahigkeiten, die Individuen durch formale Ausbildung und Erziehung erwerben, aber auch aus den Informationen/Daten, die der einzelne (offentliche Bedienstete) in Verbindung mit seinen dienstlichen Pflichten erhalt bzw. produziert. Burokraten konnen als Experten betrachtet werden, die mit einer seltenen Ware handeln: Wissen1. Max Weber setzte burokratische Fachkenntnisse gleich „Wissen“, soweit sie die „Interessensphare“, das Handlungsfeld einer Organisation betreffen. Der Besitz dieser Fachkenntnis diente als die Basis burokratischer Macht; es wurde angenommen, das Burokraten grosere materielle und technische Fachkenntnis haben als andere Regierungsvertreter. Von daher wurde die Burokratie als eine anderen Einheiten uberlegene Organisationseinheit betrachtet. Die burokratische Organisation ist im Besitz eines „komparativen Vorteils“: Sie verfugt uber Wissen.
Uncertainty-Based Structural Optimization Using Universal Grey Number Theory

Several types of uncertainties are encountered in the design of machines and structures. The geometric parameters or dimensions are specified in terms of nominal values and tolerances, the experime...
catena-Poly[[di­aqua­cadmium(II)]-μ2-3-(4-carboxyl­atophen­yl)propionato]

In the title compound, [Cd(C10H8O4)(H2O)2)]n, the CdII cation is coordinated in a distorted trigonal–prismatic fashion. 3-(4-Carb­oxy­phen­yl)propionate (cpp) ligands connect the CdII cations into zigzag [Cd(cpp)(H2O)2)]n coordination polymer chains, which are oriented parallel to [101]. The chains aggregate into supra­molecular layers oriented parallel to (10\overline{1}) by means of O—H⋯O hydrogen bonding between bound water mol­ecules and ligating cpp carboxyl­ate O atoms. The layers stack in an ABAB pattern along [100] via other O—H⋯O hydrogen-bonding mechanisms also involving the bound water mol­ecules. The crystal studied was an inversion twin.
Technology Policy and Road Map of Battery

The increase in global population has resulted in increased demand for stationary and portable energy, as well as increases in carbon dioxide emissions. The increases in greenhouse gases at the present trajectory will increase the global warming potential above the 2° threshold. At this threshold, it is anticipated that climate changes will adversely affect the land and sea masses. To minimize the potential of global warming and meet the increased energy demands, high-energy capacity lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries in portable electronics and electric vehicles offer one potential solution. Current Li-ion chemistries focus on lithium cobalt oxide (LCO), lithium nickel cobalt manganese oxide (NCM), lithium nickel cobalt aluminum oxide (NCA), lithium iron phosphate (LFP), and lithium titanium oxide (LTO) as cathodes and lithium metal (Li-metal) as an anode. Other semiconductor materials are used as alloying anodes (Si, Sn) that also include chalcogenides (S), metal halides (Br), and polymers. These materials enable the cell to maintain a high charge density through enhanced Li and electron transport, lesser volumetric expansion, material dissolution, and surface reactions between electrode and electrolyte generating heat. In part, battery thermal management is controlled using passive cooling in addition to liquid cooling. However, the widespread usage of Li-ion batteries in electric vehicles also presents a problem in end-of-life disposal and adverse effects on leaching of active materials into the water table. A life cycle assessment of Li material extraction and usage indicates that every watt-hour (Wh) of storage capacity utilizes 328 Wh of energy and generates 110 g carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2-eq.) emissions. The other components in the cathode, such as Ni and Co, may also pose toxicological adverse effects if released prematurely into the environment. The trend in battery design and evolution appears to indicate size and cost reduction; increased power density; recycling and transition to Li-S, Li-Air, or organic polymers to meet the anticipated energy demands; lower CO2-eq emissions; and electric vehicle demand by 2030.
RADIOTHERAPY INDUCED VASCULAR OCCLUSION: PERCUTANEOUS ANGIOPLASTY VS CONSERVATIVE APPROACH

Radiation induces complicated vascular occlusions due to scarring, adventitial fibrosis, elastic degeneration, and accelerated atherosclerosis. Such occlusions were typically treated by vascular surgery bypassing the stenosis. However, minimally invasive percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA)
Genomic-directed personalized matched targeted therapy approach may improve clinical outcomes among patients with advanced pancreatic cancer.

e16794Background: Despite advances in pancreatic cancer management, 2-year overall survival (OS) remains to be less than 10% in patients with metastatic disease. Given this, novel therapeutic appro...
Effect of germline mutations in homologous recombination repair genes on overall survival of patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma.

PURPOSE To compare the clinical characteristics and overall survival (OS) of germline mutation carriers in homologous recombination repair (HRR) genes and noncarriers with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Germline DNA from 3,078 patients with PDAC enrolled in a prospective registry at Mayo Clinic between 2000 and 2017 was analyzed for mutations in 37 cancer predisposition genes. Characteristics and OS of patients with mutations in eight genes (ATM, BARD1, BRCA1, BRCA2, BRIP1, PALB2, RAD51C, and RAD51D) involved in HRR were compared with patients testing negative for mutations in all 37 genes. RESULTS The 175 HRR mutation carriers and 2,730 noncarriers in the study had a median duration of follow-up of 9.9 years. HRR mutation carriers were younger (median age at diagnosis: 63 vs. 66 years, P < 0.001) and more likely to have metastatic disease at diagnosis (46% vs. 36%, P = 0.004). In a multivariable model adjusting for sex, age at diagnosis, and tumor staging, patients with germline HRR mutations had a significantly longer OS compared with noncarriers [HR, 0.83; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.70-0.97; P = 0.02]. Further gene-level analysis demonstrated that germline ATM mutation carriers had longer OS compared with patients without germline mutations in any of the 37 genes (HR, 0.72; 95% CI, 0.55-0.94; P = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates that germline mutation carrier status in PDAC is associated with longer OS compared with noncarriers. Further research into tumor biology and response to platinum-based chemotherapy in germline mutation carriers with PDAC are needed to better understand the association with longer OS.
A first principles framework to predict the transient performance of latent heat thermal energy storage

Abstract Thermal energy storage (TES) is increasingly recognized as an essential component of efficient Combined Heat and Power (CHP), Concentrated Solar Power (CSP), Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC), and refrigeration as it reduces peak demand while helping to manage intermittent availability of energy (e.g., from solar or wind). Latent Heat Thermal Energy Storage (LHTES) is a viable option because of its high energy storage density. Parametric analysis of LHTES in terms of dimensionless numbers is highly desired as a tool to model LHTES systems. One approach is to develop a model equation so as to minimize the error between the model and data obtained from experiments or simulations. While this approach can produce an accurate correlation applicable within the range of data used for its creation, it does not provide physical understanding of the rate-limiting process controlling the transient behavior of the device. In this paper we present an alternative approach whereby the potential rate-limiting processes are identified from first principles and then the key process is determined as a function of time as a LHTES device is charged. For example, in a simple geometry, the melt-fraction can be expected to vary linearly in time if the heat transfer rate is limited by natural convection of the phase changing material and we show it scales with the PCM Grashof number as G r p 1 and PCM Prandtl number as P r p ( 1 ∕ 3 ) . On the other hand, if surface area of solid PCM limits the heat transfer rate, the melt fraction increases asymptotically to reach full melting. The existence of these linear and asymptotic regions and the G r p 1 P r p 1 ∕ 3 shape of the melt fraction curve is verified using our database of 64 simulations. Of practical importance in designing LHTES devices is the melt fraction at which the heat transfer rate ceases to be limited by convection, after which the heat storage rate deteriorates. For our geometry, this is found to be about 90%. This test case of our methodology shows the value of our approach, that predicting heat storage rate based on the rate-limiting physical phenomenon as a function of time is an effective approach to modeling LHTES devices.
Tacrolimus Time in Therapeutic Range is Associated with Cellular Rejection and Gut Dysbiosis Early after Heart Transplant

Purpose Tacrolimus (TAC) is a cornerstone therapy in heart transplant (HT). Few studies have associated TAC time in therapeutic range (TTR) and coefficient of variation (CV) with cellular rejection (CR) in this population. Recent data suggested that gut microbiome may influence TAC dosing requirements after HT. We aimed to: 1) evaluate the relationship of TAC-TTR and TAC-CV with rates of CR, and 2) determine if TAC-TTR or TAC-CV correlate with measure of gut microbial diversity in the first year after HT. Methods Pts who received HT between 06/2016 and 07/2019 were enrolled. All TAC serum levels from post-HT day 30-365 were analyzed. Stool samples were collected 1-mo post-HT and analyzed using 16SrRNA sequencing (n=19). Microbial alpha diversity was described using Shannon Index. For each patient, TAC-TTR was calculated using Rosendaal's Method. TAC-CV was calculated based on all available TAC levels as follows: (TAC trough level standard deviation)/mean) X 100. TAC-TTR and TAC-CV were calculated from 30-365 d post-HT, or until date of first CR event within this time frame. CR was defined according to ISHLT criteria. Generalized linear models regressed Shannon Index on TAC-TTR and TAC-CV. Cox proportional hazard models regressed time to CR on TAC-TTR and TAC-CV, dichotomized by the median. Results 86 HT pts (52.5±13 y, 79% M, 31% AA) were studied. Median TAC-TTR was 51.8%, TAC-CV was 26.5%. During first year after HT, above median TAC-TTR was associated with lower rates of CR (HR=0.50, p=0.0955, Fig 1A), whereas TAC-CV was not (HR=0.75, p=0.51, Fig 1B). Comparison of first and fourth quartiles of TAC-TTR showed a significant difference in CR risk (HR=0.31, p=0.046). Pts above median TAC-TTR tended to have a more diverse gut microbiome compared to those below (Shannon Index 5.32 vs 4.97, p=0.09). Conclusion Above median TAC-TTR is associated with lower CR rates and greater gut microbial diversity. Proof of principle trials to increase gut microbial health and reduce CR rates are justified.
Probabilistic catalyzed entanglement concentration of qubit pairs

We analytically obtain the maximum probability of converting a finite number of copies of an arbitrary two-qubit pure state to a single copy of a maximally entangled two-qubit pure state via entanglement-assisted local operations and classical communications using a two-qubit catalyst state, which may be destroyed when the conversion fails. We show that the optimal catalyst for this transformation is always more entangled than the initial state but any two-qubit state can act as a (non-optimal) catalyst. Interestingly, the entanglement of the optimal two-qubit catalyst state is shown to decrease with that of the initial state. The unitaries and measurements required for catalytic entanglement concentration are presented.
Sociodemographic and Clinical Predictors of Prescription Opioid Use in a Longitudinal Community-Based Cohort Study of Middle-Aged and Older Adults:

ObjectivesIdentifying factors associated with opioid use in middle-aged and older adults is a fundamental step in the mitigation of potentially unnecessary opioid consumption and opioid-related har...
GaAs detector array for soft X-ray beam position monitoring in storage ring light sources

We describe a GaAs detector array for soft-Xray photons with energies above 250 eV designed to operate with power density levels of up to 20 W/mm2 to be used in a novel beam position monitor.
An investigation of aqueous ammonium nitrate aerosols with soft X-ray spectroscopy

Aqueous aerosols are important in atmospheric chemistry, drug delivery, and human health. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), a surface-sensitive technique and near-edge X-ray absorption fine s...
Perioperative Schmerztherapie bei opioidgewöhnten Patienten

In diesem Ubersichtsbeitrag werden spezielle anasthesiologische Probleme bei Opioidgewohnung und chirurgischem Eingriff dargestellt. Sie betreffen Patienten mit einer langzeitigen Opioidtherapie chronischer Schmerzen, Suchtkranke mit langzeitiger Substitutionstherapie und Suchtkranke mit aktiver oder auch vormaliger Heroinabhangigkeit („clean“). Fur alle Patientengruppen besitzen die Zusicherung und Sicherstellung durchgehend suffizienter Schmerzbehandlung (Vermeidung von Angst, Erhohung der Patienten-Compliance), nach Moglichkeit unter Ausnutzung geeigneter Regionalanasthesie- bzw. Regionalanalgesieverfahren, sowie die Verhinderung eines physischen Opioidentzugssyndroms oberste Prioritat. Die dafur erforderliche Optimierung der perioperativen Schmerztherapie gelingt nur auf der Basis einer sorgfaltigen praoperativen Anamneseerhebung, die die Einnahmegewohnheiten hinsichtlich der Opioid- und Begleitmedikation subtil erfragt. Systemische oder regionale Analgesieverfahren sowie deren Kombinationen sind moglich. Die regionalen Verfahren sind analgetisch wirksamer. Die systemischen Analgesieverfahren weichen im Grundsatz nicht von denen ab, die bei Patienten ohne Opioidgewohnung ublich sind. Allerdings sind wesentlich hohere Opioiddosierungen erforderlich, die dem individuellen Bedarf durch Titration angepasst werden mussen. Besondere Bedingungen ergeben sich bei vormals opioidabhangigen Patienten (Clean), wenn sie operiert werden. Bei masigen Schmerzen sind Nichtopioide ausreichend wirksam, und Opioide sind vermeidbar. Nach grosen Eingriffen bzw. bei starken postoperativen Schmerzen ist eine Opioidtherapie unter Einschluss eines Nichtopioids notig, ggf. auch als „i.v. patient-controlled analgesia“ (i.v.-PCA). Nicht dadurch, sondern durch eine analgetische Unterversorgung kann bei diesen Patienten ein Ruckfall in die aktive Sucht provoziert werden.
Protein–ligand interactions

Protein–ligand interactions are described and several of the unique interactions observed between proteins and other molecules are illustrated. The chapter covers protein–carbohydrate interactions, metal ions associated with proteins, protein–nucleic acid interactions, and sulfate and phosphate interactions.
Stationary-state skewness in two-dimensional Kardar-Parisi-Zhang type growth

We present numerical Monte Carlo results for the stationary state properties of KPZ type growth in two dimensional surfaces, by evaluating the finite size scaling (FSS) behaviour of the 2nd and 4th moments, $W_2$ and $W_4$, and the skewness, $W_3$, in the Kim-Kosterlitz (KK) and BCSOS model. Our results agree with the stationary state proposed by L\"assig. The roughness exponents $W_n\sim L^{\alpha_n}$ obey power counting, $\alpha_n= n \alpha$, and the amplitude ratio's of the moments are universal. They have the same values in both models: $W_3/W_2^{1.5}= -0.27(1)$ and $W_4/W_2^{2}= +3.15(2)$. Unlike in one dimension, the stationary state skewness is not tunable, but a universal property of the stationary state distribution. The FSS corrections to scaling in the KK model are weak and $\alpha$ converges well to the Kim-Kosterlitz-L\"assig value $\alpha={2/5} $. The FSS corrections to scaling in the BCSOS model are strong. Naive extrapolations yield an smaller value, $\alpha\simeq 0.38(1)$, but are still consistent with $\alpha={2/5}$ if the leading irrelevant corrections to FSS scaling exponent is of order $y_{ir}\simeq -0.6(2)$.
Fabrication of Photonic Crystals

Fabrication of 3-D PBGM is a four stage process: the synthesis of monodisperse spherical particles, their self-assembly to form a template, infiltration of materials of interest and removal of template. The template was formed on a substrate by the self-assembly or electrophoretic deposition of silica into a FCC structure. Infiltrations of interstitial spaces were tried by sputtering and by in situ chemical reactions.
Analysis of aircraft electric microgrid system with Auxiliary Power Unit using real time simulation

This paper addresses the modeling and control of the More Electric Aircraft (MEA) system used in modern airplanes in real time simulation environment. In particular, this paper examines the effect of replacing the conventional gas turbine based Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) system with a fuel cell based APU system. The voltage dynamics in the aircraft electric microgrid system and impact of the fuel cell based APU is discussed. The modeling and control of the fuel cell and battery combination including the power electronic interface in the APU is discussed. The advantages of this APU unit is examined, and the performance of the system under various loading and operating conditions is studied.
Body mass index, agricultural pesticide use, and cancer incidence in the Agricultural Health Study cohort

Obesity is associated with increased risks of several cancers including colon and female breast. Pesticide use in agricultural populations has also been linked with higher risks of various cancers. However, the interaction between obesity and pesticide use on cancer risk has not been well studied. Using data from the Agricultural Health Study, we examined the association between body mass index (BMI) and the risk of cancer at 17 sites and the interaction between BMI and pesticide use. Pesticide applicators residing in Iowa and North Carolina and their spouses were enrolled between 1993 and 1997 and given a self-administered questionnaire to obtain pesticide use and other information. This analysis included 39,628 men and 28,319 women with height and weight data who were cancer-free at enrollment. Among these participants, 4,432 were diagnosed with cancer between enrollment and 2005 and 64% were overweight or obese. BMI (per 1 kg/m(2)) was positively associated with colon cancer in men (hazard ratio (HR) 1.05, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.02-1.09) and breast cancer in postmenopausal women (HR 1.03, 95% CI 1.01-1.06). In contrast, BMI was inversely associated with lung cancer in men, with a significant association in ever smokers (HR 0.92, 95% CI 0.88-0.97) and a null association in never smokers. The positive association between BMI and colon cancer in men was significant in those who ever used carbofuran (HR = 1.10, 95% CI 1.04-1.17; p-interaction = 0.04) or metolachlor (HR = 1.09, 95% CI 1.04-1.15; p-interaction = 0.02) but was null in non-users of these pesticides. Among male ever smokers, the inverse association between BMI and lung cancer was significant in non-users of carbofuran (HR = 0.87, 95% CI = 0.82-0.92) but was null in users of carbofuran (p-interaction = 0.02). These findings suggest that certain pesticides may modify the effects of BMI on the risks of colon and lung cancers.
Acute phase CD8+ T lymphocytes against alternate reading frame epitopes select for rapid viral escape during SIV infection.

CD8+ T Lymphocytes (CTL) can control AIDS virus replication. However, natural selection favoring viral variants that escape CTL recognition is a common feature of both simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) infection of macaques and HIV infection of humans. Emerging data indicate that CTL directed against alternate reading frame (ARF)-derived epitopes (a.k.a. cryptic epitopes) are important components of the total virus-specific response in SIV and HIV infection but the contributions of these responses during the critical first several weeks of infection have not been determined. We used a focused deep sequencing approach to examine acute phase viral evolution in response to CTL targeting two polypeptides encoded by ARFs of SIVmac239 in SIV-infected rhesus macaques. We report high magnitude CTL responses as early as three weeks post-infection against epitopes within both ARFs, which both overlap the 5′ end of the env gene. Further, mutations accumulated in the epitopes by three to four weeks post infection consistent with viral escape. Interestingly, these mutations largely maintained the primary amino acid sequence of the overlapping Envelope protein. Our data show that high frequency CTL target cryptic epitopes and exert selective pressure on SIV during the acute phase, underscoring the importance of these unique immune responses.
Lyapunov exponents and kolmogorov-sinai entropy for a high-dimensional convex billiard

We compute the Lyapunov exponents and the Kolmogorov-Sinai (KS) entropy for a self-bound N-body system that is realized as a convex billiard. This system exhibits truly high-dimensional chaos, and 2N-4 Lyapunov exponents are found to be positive. The KS entropy increases linearly with the numbers of particles. We examine the chaos generating defocusing mechanism and investigate how high-dimensional chaos develops in this system with no dispersing elements. (c) 2000 The American Physical Society.
Luminescent amphiphilic dendrimers with oligo(p-phenylene vinylene) core branches and oligo(ethylene oxide) terminal chains: syntheses and stimuli-responsive properties

A class of new dendrimers consisting of hydrophobic oligo(p-phenylene vinylene) core branches and hydrophilic oligo(ethylene oxide) terminal chains was synthesized. These amphiphilic dendritic molecules are highly luminescent and exhibit critical micellization behaviors. They also show a lower critical solution temperature (LCST) in an aqueous medium. Both the critical micelle concentration (CMC) and LCST increased with increasing branch number and the ratio of the hydrophilic oligo(ethylene oxide) to hydrophobic oligo(p-phenylene vinylene) moieties. Besides, a temperature-dependent phase transition from a clear to cloudy aqueous solution was observed. The temperature-induced phase transition was also reflected by fluorescence quenching, 1H NMR resonance peak broadening, and UV–vis absorption shift arising from the hydrophobic conjugated core. These changes in the phase structure and photophysical properties were demonstrated to be highly reversible, indicating some interesting stimuli-responsive behaviors.
Docosahexaenoic Acid Neurolipidomics

Abstract Mediator lipidomics is a field of study concerned with the characterization, structural elucidation and bioactivity of lipid derivatives actively generated by enzymatic activity. It is well known that omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial for brain function. Docosahexaenoic acid [DHA; 4 22:6(n-3)] is the most abundant essential omega-3 fatty acid present in the brain and it has multiple mechanisms of exerting protective effects after cellular injury. Certain lipid species produced from DHA early during the reperfusion stage of brain ischemia-reperfusion injury are generated in order to help the cell cope as the injury progresses. We explore these newly discovered lipid mediators in order to understand their role in the cell. We have identified one of these potentially protective lipid mediators as a novel stereospecific DHA-derived fatty acid, called neuroprotectin D1 (NPD1; 10R,17S-dihydroxy-docosa-4Z,7Z,11E,15E,19Z hexaenoic acid). DHA also has important roles in pro-survival signaling cascades after ischemia-reperfusion in injury. It has been shown to accelerate AKT translocation and activation and has binding affinity with an important PPAR-γ family of ligand-activated nuclear receptors that have been implicated in various aspects of lipid metabolism and have been shown to have anti-inflammatory actions. Here we present an overview of these mechanisms and discuss the potential of using DHA signaling in the development of treatments for the large population of patients suffering from the devastating consequences of stroke.
Relationship between reason for placement and medical findings among children in foster care

Objective. To determine the reasons for placement of children in foster care, the prevalence of medical findings during initial placement, and the relationship between reason for placement and medical findings. The association between placement reasons and parental substance abuse also was explored. Methods. Population-based analysis of medical records of 749 children examined at the Child Protection Center in San Francisco from October 1, 1991, to December 31, 1992. Health evaluations consisted of a clearance examination of children during entry into foster care and a comprehensive examination 3 weeks later. Reasons for foster placement included abandonment, neglect, no available caretaker, physical abuse, sexual abuse, and failed placement. Results. Nearly 50% of children in our study were Conclusions. Specific medical findings associated with reasons for placement provide health professionals with additional information to assess more accurately the health care needs of children entering foster care. As important, screening tests revealed high rates of vision problems and exposures to tuberculosis, warranting earlier and more comprehensive screening. Finally, children who have endured variations of neglect or failed placement may have more health problems than anticipated previously.
Biosynthesis of the arabinogalactan-peptidoglycan complex of Mycobacterium tuberculosis

The compositional complexity of the mycobacterial cell envelope differentiates Mycobacterium species from most other prokaryotes. Historically, research in this area has focused on the elucidation of the structure of the mycobacterial cell envelope with the result that the structures of the mycolic acid-arabinogalactan-peptidoglycan complex from M. tuberculosis are fairly well understood. However, the current impetus for studying M. tuberculosis and other pathogenic mycobacteria is the need to identify targets for the development of new drugs. Therefore, emphasis has been shifting to the study of cell envelope biosynthesis and the identification of enzymes that are essential to the viability of M. tuberculosis. The publication of the complete M. tuberculosis genome in 1998 has greatly aided these studies. To date, thirteen enzymes involved in the synthesis of the arabinogalactan-peptidoglycan complex of M. tuberculosis have been identified and at least partially characterized. Eleven of these enzymes were reported subsequent to the publication of the M. tuberculosis genome, a clear indication of the rapid evolution of knowledge stimulated by the sequencing of the genome. In this article we review the current understanding of M. tuberculosis arabinogalactan-peptidoglycan structure and biosynthesis.
Blood Pressure Changes in the Leg on Standing

Normotensive and hypertensive patients develop peripheral arterial disease. The authors hypothesized that significant changes in lower extremity blood pressures occur upon standing, which could play a role in the pathogenesis of peripheral arterial disease. Forty-one subjects had blood pressure measurements performed in the arm and ankle in the supine and standing positions. The data show a marked increase in leg blood pressure on assuming the standing position, with mean increases of 65 mm Hg in systolic and 62 mm Hg in diastolic blood pressure in the lower extremities, compared with the arm on standing. In addition, the changes in diastolic pressure in the leg on standing were significantly correlated to height (r=0.47; p<0.002). These data reveal a previously unappreciated aspect of blood pressure, namely a large increase in lower extremity blood pressure values on standing, which may predispose to peripheral arterial disease.
Associations Between Neighborhood-Level Factors Related to a Healthful Lifestyle and Dietary Intake, Physical Activity, and Support for Obesity Prevention Polices Among Rural Adults

We examined cross-sectional associations among neighborhood- and individual-level factors related to a healthful lifestyle and dietary intake, physical activity (PA), and support for obesity prevention polices in rural eastern North Carolina adults. We examined perceived neighborhood barriers to a healthful lifestyle, and associations between neighborhood barriers to healthy eating and PA, participants' support for seven obesity prevention policies, and dependent variables of self-reported dietary and PA behaviors, and measured body mass index (BMI) (n = 366 study participants). We then used participants' residential addresses and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software to assess neighborhood-level factors related to access to healthy food and PA opportunities. Correlational analyses and adjusted linear regression models were used to examine associations between neighborhood-level factors related to a healthful lifestyle and dietary and PA behaviors, BMI, and obesity prevention policy support. The most commonly reported neighborhood barriers (from a list of 18 potential barriers) perceived by participants included: not enough bicycle lanes and sidewalks, not enough affordable exercise places, too much crime, and no place to buy a quick, healthy meal to go. Higher diet quality was inversely related to perceived and GIS-assessed neighborhood nutrition barriers. There were no significant associations between neighborhood barriers and PA. More perceived neighborhood barriers were positively associated with BMI. Support for obesity prevention policy change was positively associated with perceptions of more neighborhood barriers. Neighborhood factors that promote a healthful lifestyle were associated with higher diet quality and lower BMI. Individuals who perceived more neighborhood-level barriers to healthy eating and PA usually supported policies to address those barriers. Future studies should examine mechanisms to garner such support for health-promoting neighborhood changes.
Choice Of X-Ray Sensito For Medical Radiography

For the evaluation of the imaging capability of radiographic film or film-screen combinations, it is important to know the density increments resulting from known exposure increments or, in other words, to describe the sensitometric properties of a given film or film-screen combination. It is customary (Refs. 1,2) to describe a film or film-screen combination sensitometrically by means of the so-called characteristic or H & D curve: For the sake of convenience, density is usually ploLLed as a function of the logarithm of relative exposure.© (1974) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
THz-Field Induced Cross-Phase Modulation in ZnTe

We demonstrate spectral shift and broadening of 120fs, 800nm pulses in ZnTe with the presence of ~1ps, ~40uJ coherent terahertz pulses. This spectral modulation is attributed to cross-phase modulation induced by the strong THz field.
Dependence of adenovirus replication on arginine and inhibition of plaque formation by pleuropneumonia-like organisms

Abstract Type 2 adenovirus growing in KB or other human cells has an absolute requirement for arginine in the medium. Without arginine, there is no net synthesis of virus. Of the amino acids tested, arginine is the only one for which there is such a requirement. Established lines of human cells are often contaminated with pleuropneumonia-like organisms (PPLO), and these organisms have the capacity of rapidly depleting the available arginine, thereby lowering the efficiency of plating of various adenoviruses. These fluctuations in plating efficiency can be eliminated by curing the cells of PPLO infection.
Solid Redox Polymerization Electrodes and Their Use in All-Solid-State Batteries

Abstract The dramatic proliferation of products based on semiconductor technology is a strong testament to the predictability and reliability of solid-state technology. In a similar vein, advances in materials exhibiting high levels of ionic conduction in the solid state has led to worldwide efforts in the development of all-solid-state rechargeable batteries. Although higher current densities are achievable with liquid electrolytes, all-solid-state cells offer inherent advantages of negligible self-discharge, long cycle life, high reliability, and virtual absence of container corrosion. Elegant work on polycrystalline and vitreous electrolytes has led to solid electrolytes with suitable ionic conductivities for battery development,1,2,3 however, the superior mechanical properties of elastomeric electrolytes combined with the simplicity of fabrication of thin separator films from these materials, has led to very active pursuit of solid-state cells based on solid polymeric electrolytes (SPE's). Although so...
Blood group antigens reveal their maker.

For the first time, heterozygous mutations within human EKLF/KLF1 have been identified and shown to alter the expression of blood group antigens. Subtle variations in certain groups of genes may not lead to a dramatic clinical presentation, but when enriched within human subpopulations, they can
Intergenerational Ambivalence, Power, and Perceptions of Elder Suicide in Rural Japan

This article explores perceptions of elder suicide by older Japanese and contextualizes these perceptions within the theoretical framework of intergenerational ambivalence theory. The examples discussed show how people can use perceptions related to intergenerational relationships and changing social structures and values to create explanatory models for suicidal behavior. In the cases discussed here, high elder suicide rates are seen as a product of conflicting family values and conflicting expectations about how power should be allocated within families. Suicide is one means by which actors negotiate contradictions in the surrounding social environment, contradictions that for many Japanese appear to be consistently evident in the context of multigenerational families where communication and interaction between younger and older generations is perceived as being difficult.
DNA synthetic activity of nuclei isolated from differentiating cardiac muscle and association of DNA polymerase alpha with the outer nuclear membrane.

Abstract [ 3 H]dTMP incorporation into DNA of nuclei isolated from differentiating cardiac muscle of the rat has been characterized. Nuclei prepared at different times during the terminal phase of differentiation by a procedure not involving a detergent (Triton X-100) wash show a progressively diminished capacity to support in vitro [ 3 H]dTMP incorporation; this diminution parallels the loss of DNA polymerase α from cardiac muscle. The rate of incorporation of [ 3 H]dTMP into DNA of nuclei washed twice with 0.5% Triton X-100 does not correlate with the in vivo DNA synthetic activity. As determined by electron microscopy the Triton X-100 wash removes the outer nuclear membrane; the pellet obtained by centrifuging the Triton X-100 extract of these nuclei consists of circular membrane vesicles. The predominant DNA polymerase activity in these preparations was characterized using pH optimum, N -ethylmaleimide sensitivity, and correlation to in vivo DNA synthetic activity as criteria. DNA polymerase α activity predominated in the non-Triton X-100-extracted nuclei and in the outer nuclear membrane fraction; DNA polymerase β activity was the predominant activity observed in Triton X-100-extracted nuclei. These data emphasize that the procedure which is used to isolate nuclei from proliferating cells can greatly influence the nature of the DNA synthetic activity that is observed in vitro , suggest that DNA polymerase α is associated with the outer nuclear membrane, and add support to the idea that this enzyme is involved in eukaryotic DNA replication.
Redox potential of human thioredoxin 1 and identification of a second dithiol/disulfide motif.

Thioredoxin (Trx1) is a redox-active protein containing two active site cysteines (Cys-32 and Cys-35) that cycle between the dithiol and disulfide forms as Trx1 reduces target proteins. Examination of the redox characteristics of this active site dithiol/disulfide couple is complicated by the presence of three additional non-active site cysteines. Using the redox Western blot technique and matrix assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry mass spectrometry, we determined the midpoint potential (E 0) of the Trx1 active site (–230 mV) and identified a second redox-active dithiol/disulfide (Cys-62 and Cys-69) in an α helix proximal to the active site, which formed under oxidizing conditions. This non-active site disulfide was not a substrate for reduction by thioredoxin reductase and delayed the reduction of the active site disulfide by thioredoxin reductase. Within actively growing THP1 cells, most of the active site of Trx1 was in the dithiol form, whereas the non-active site was totally in the dithiol form. The addition of increasing concentrations of diamide to these cells resulted in oxidation of the active site at fairly low concentrations and oxidation of the non-active site at higher concentrations. Taken together these results suggest that the Cys-62-Cys-69 disulfide could provide a means to transiently inhibit Trx1 activity under conditions of redox signaling or oxidative stress, allowing more time for the sensing and transmission of oxidative signals.
Pressure-Induced Te7S10: A Cocrystallization of Sulfur and Tellurium Helices

The first and only known phase in the tellurium-sulfur system has been obtained at high pressures. Evidence is presented to support the hypothesis that this phase consists of a cocrystallization of sulfur and tellurium helices in 1 : 1 ratio.
Carbon fund could help developing countries

The Community Development Carbon Fund, which began operations on 25 July, could help developing countries gain financial support for small-scale greenhouse gas reduction projects. The fund would allow industrialized countries to receive greenhouse gas emission reduction credits for projects they support in developing countries. Projects would be developed under the Clean Development Mechanism of the Kyoto Protocol, and emissions reductions would be transferable under various carbon market regulatory regimes, including those established under the protocol and by the European Union.
Imipenem therapy for Legionnaires' disease

Nishzuka and colleagues report that imipenem therapy was successful for the treatment of Legionella pneumophila serogroup 12 pneumonia because the patient improved while being treated with doripenem and imipenem/cilastatin [1]. Their conclusion is not warranted. It is well established that the majority of patients recover from Legionnaires' disease without being given specific therapy, with at least 70% of such patients recovering completely [2,3]. Untreated immunosuppressed and elderly patients can have much higher fatality rates, as high as 70%, but this still leaves open the possibility that even in this group of patients cure without specific therapy can occur. Illness can be prolonged in those patients who are not treated specifically for the disease, with some patients recovering suddenly after several days of fever. Thus attributing successful therapy to imipenem/cilastain in this case is not warranted. Imipenem/cilastatin therapy is inactive in animal model studies of Legionnaires' disease, and in high quality studies of intracellular infection [4,5]. Simply showing that imipenem/cilastatin has good in vitro extracellular activity for L. pneumophila is irrelevant because many drugs with excellent in vitro activity against the bacterium have no clinical efficacy for the disease. Neither this drug, nor any beta-lactam drug, should ever be knowingly given as therapy for Legionnaires' disease. References
Theoferometer for High Accuracy Optical Alignment and Metrology

The accurate measurement of the orientation of optical parts and systems is a pressing problem for upcoming space missions, such as stellar interferometers, requiring the knowledge and maintenance of positions to the sub-arcsecond level. Theodolites, the devices commonly used to make these measurements, cannot provide the needed level of accuracy. This paper describes the design, construction, and testing of an interferometer system to fill the widening gap between future requirements and current capabilities. A Twyman-Green interferometer mounted on a 2 degree of freedom rotation stage is able to obtain sub-arcsecond, gravity-referenced tilt measurements of a sample alignment cube. Dubbed a 'theoferometer,' this device offers greater ease-of-use, accuracy, and repeatability than conventional methods, making it a suitable 21st-century replacement for the theodolite.
Efficacy of high dose-short duration ribavirin aerosol in the treatment of respiratory syncytial virus infected cotton rats and influenza B virus infected mice.

Abstract Fifteen to 20 mg/ml ribavirin administered as a small particle aerosol for 10 – 18 h per day is currently the regimen generally used to treat experimental or naturally-occurring respiratory syncytial (RS) or influenza virus infections in humans. To determine if such prolonged treatment schedules could be reduced, cotton rats and mice were inoculated with RS or influenza B virus, respectively, and then treated with different concentrations of ribavirin small particle aerosols. Aerosols generated from reservoirs containing 60 mg/ml ribavirin given 2 h twice daily, protected cotton rats from RS virus and mice from influenza B virus as well as aerosols generated from reservoirs containing 20 mg/ml ribavirin given 11 h daily. Aerosols generated from reservoirs containing 40 or 20 mg/ml given 2 h daily were less efficacious. There was no evidence of intolerance or pulmonary histopathology in infected or uninfected animals exposed to any of the doses of ribavirin tested. These studies indicate that use of aerosols containing higher concentrations of ribavirin than generally used to treat respiratory virus diseases may permit significantly shorter treatment schedules without loss of efficacy or increase in toxicity.
Isolation and characterization of a primate sarcoma virus: mechanism of rescue.

A clonal isolate of an RNA-containing sarcoma virus derived from a spontaneous woolly monkey fibrosarcoma has been obtained. The woolly sarcoma virus transformed cells do not spontaneously yield infectious virus but do contain the woolly gs antigen. The primate sarcoma virus can be rescued with comparable efficiency by superinfection with either murine or primate helper type-C viruses. During rescue with murine helper type-C virus, the intracellular level of woolly monkey gs antigen does not rise in proportion to the production of helper gs antigen, or in proportion to the production of transmissible focus-forming virus. The results suggest that the mechanism of rescue may simply involve an assembly of sarcoma components into an infectious particle during the production of the helper type-C virus.
Optimality of the 2-CUSUM drift equalizer rules for detecting two-sided alternatives in the Brownian motion model

This work employs the Brownian motion model in which observations are taken sequentially. The objective is to detect a two-sided change in the constant drift by means of a stopping rule. As a performance measure, an extended Lorden criterion is used. The goal is to minimize the worst-case detection delay subject to a constraint in the frequency of false alarms. In a companion paper, attention is drawn to a first category of 2-CUSUM rules for which the harmonic mean rule holds. It is further seen that a special class of 2-CUSUM stopping rules within this category, called drift equalizer rules, perform strictly better than non-equalizer rules, according to this specific performance measure.
The CLAS start counter

Abstract The design, construction, and performance of a hexagonal-nose-cone-shaped plastic scintillation counter system is described. This “Start Counter” is used as part of the trigger and to measure event start times for photon beam running with CLAS in Hall B at the Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility. The Start Counter is constructed of three 3-mm thick coupled-paddle scintillators and achieves a software-corrected time resolution of 260 ps. Each coupled-paddle scintillator operated without appreciable sagging up to ∼1.2 MHz rate.
GaSb thermophotovoltaics: current challenges and solutions

GaSb thermophotovoltaic cells fabricated using Molecular Beam Epitaxy (MBE) and ion implantation techniques are studied. Challenges including different defect formation mechanisms using MBE and ion-induced defects using ion implantation were investigated by cross-sectional Transmission Electron Microscopy (XTEM), X-Ray Diffraction spectroscopy (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). For MBE grown TPVs, several approaches were used to suppress defects, including substrate preparation and using different MBE reactors. For ion-implanted TPVs, different implant doses and energies were tested to minimize the crystal damage and various Rapid Thermal Anneal (RTA) process recipes were studied to maximize the crystal recovery. Large area TPV cells with 1 × 1 cm dimensions were fabricated using these techniques, then electrically and optically characterized. Ideality factors and dark saturation currents were measured and compared for various TPVs.