cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Study of ATLAS Grid Performance for Distributed Analysis

In the past two years the ATLAS Collaboration at the LHC has collected a large volume of data and published a number of ground breaking papers. The Grid-based ATLAS distributed computing infrastructure played a crucial role in enabling timely analysis of the data. We will present a study of the performance and usage of the ATLAS Grid as platform for physics analysis in 2011. This includes studies of general properties as well as timing properties of user jobs (wait time, run time, etc). These studies are based on mining of data archived by the PanDA workload management system.
Affinity chromatography of Bacillus subtilis glutamine phosphoribosylpyrophosphate amidotransferase.

Abstract Purified glutamine phosphoribosylpyrophosphate amidotransferase from Bacillus subtilis bound to affinity adsorbents containing immobilized adenine nucleotides. Although the enzyme probably bound via an allosteric site at which AMP acts most effectively, 50 times more enzyme was bound by N 6 -(aminohexyl)-ATP-agarose than by N 6 -(aminohexyl)-AMP-agarose. The enzyme could be efficiently and specifically eluted from N 6 -(aminohexyl)-ATP-agarose with the substrate phosphoribosylpyrophosphate, which antagonizes AMP inhibition in kinetic experiments. Elution could also be effected by 0.5 m KCl or by chelation of Mg 2+ ions. The usefulness of these techniques in purification of partially purified amidotransferase was demonstrated.
Quadruplet codons: implications for code expansion and the specification of translation step size.

One of the requirements for engineering expansion of the genetic code is a unique codon which is available for specifying the new amino acid. The potential of the quadruplet UAGA in Escherichia coli to specify a single amino acid residue in the presence of a mutant tRNALeu molecule containing the extra nucleotide, U, at position 33.5 of its anticodon loop has been examined. With this mRNA-tRNA combination and at least partial inactivation of release factor 1, the UAGA quadruplet specifies a leucine residue with an efficiency of 13 to 26 %. The decoding properties of tRNALeu with U at position 33.5 of its eight-membered anticodon loop, and a counterpart with A at position 33.5, strongly suggest that in both cases their anticodon loop bases stack in alternative conformations. The identity of the codon immediately 5′ of the UAGA quadruplet influences the efficiency of quadruplet translation via the properties of its cognate tRNA. When there is the potential for the anticodon of this tRNA to dissociate from pairing with its codon and to re-pair to mRNA at a nearby 3′ closely matched codon, the efficiency of quadruplet translation at UAGA is reduced. Evidence is presented which suggests that when there is a purine base at position 32 of this 5′ flanking tRNA, it influences decoding of the UAGA quadruplet.
A new characterization of Dedekind domains

Throughout this paper all rings are assumed commutative with identity. Among integral domains, Dedekind domains are characterized by the property that every ideal is a product of prime ideals. For a history and proof of this result the reader is referred to Cohen [ 2 , pp. 31–32]. More generally, Mori [ 5 ] has shown that a ring has the property that every ideal is a product of prime ideals if and only if it is a finite direct product of Dedekind domains and special principal ideal rings (SPIRS). Rings with this property are called general Z.P.I.-rings.
Regulation of leaf life-span and nutrient-use efficiency of Metrosideros polymorpha trees at two extremes of a long chronosequence in Hawaii

Leaf traits related to life-span and nutrient-use efficiency were studied in the dominant Hawaiian tree species, Metrosideros polymorpha, at both ends of a natural fertility gradient, from young, nitrogen-poor soils to older, phosphorus-poor soils. The main objective of this study was to understand how nutrient limitations affect leaf-level attributes that ultimately play a mechanistic role in regulating whole-ecosystem function. Different types of adjustments to removal of nutrient limitation by long-term fertilization (9–15 years) with nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and a combined treatment of N plus P were observed at each site. Nitrogen fertilization at the young, mostly N-limited site did not significantly affect net CO2 assimilation (A), foliar N content, or N resorption. The primary response to N fertilization was a decrease in average leaf life span to approximately 553 days compared with 898 days in the control plot. Significantly shorter average leaf life-span coupled with constant A and foliar N content resulted in reduced integrated photosynthetic nitrogen-use efficiency (PNUE: A summed over the life-span of a leaf divided by foliar N) in the fertilized plots. In contrast, removal of nutrient limitations at the old, mostly P-limited site resulted in increased A, and increased foliar P concentration which also resulted in reduced integrated photosynthetic phosphorus-use efficiency (PPUE). P resorption was also reduced at this site, yet leaf life-span remained constant. When results from both sites and all treatments were combined, statistically significant relationships between leaf life-span, and A, leaf mass per area (LMA), and the cost of leaf construction per unit carbon gain (cost of construction determined by combustion of leaf samples divided by A) were found. As leaf life-span increased, A decreased asymptotically, and LMA and the carbon cost per carbon gain increased linearly. It appears that the balance between leaf carbon cost and carbon uptake is a major determinant of leaf longevity in M. polymorpha despite contrasting responses to removal of N and P limitations by long-term fertilization. Removal of the main nutrient limitations at both sites also resulted in reduced integrated nutrient use efficiency. However, the regulatory mechanisms were different depending on the site limitations: a shorter leaf life-span in the young, N-limited site and substantially higher foliar P concentration in the P-fertilized plots at the old, P-limited site.
New evidence for multiple binding sites for sulfur at the Ni(100)-vacuum interface

Abstract Measurements of adsorbate-derived peaks in angle-resolved photoemission energy distribution may provide a useful method for the study of bulk/surface diffusion of contaminants in metals. Energy distributions for c(2 × 2) sulfur on Ni(100) at 50° (±4°) collection angle along (001) for n ω = 21.2 eV (HeI) are characterized by a single sulfur-derived peak at 4.5 eV binding energy, believed to be due to sulfur in the four-fold hollow surface site determined by LEED. Further sulfur dosage or excessive heating results in the appearance of a second peak in the spectrum, at 1.25 eV higher binding energy, while maintaining a sharp c(2 × 2) LEED structure. The new binding configuration indicated by the second sulfur peak is interpreted as the penetration of sulfur into the substrate. This interpretation is supported by further studies of the dependence of the higher binding energy peak on temperature and dosage. This method of observing bulk-surface diffusion should be applicable to many other adsorbate/substrate systems, as long as the adsorbate-derived peak can be observed and identified.
Integral transforms and the laguerre—pólya class

(1989). Integral transforms and the laguerre—polya class. Complex Variables, Theory and Application: An International Journal: Vol. 12, No. 1-4, pp. 211-230.
Study of TDDB reliability in misaligned via chain structures

The low-k time-dependent dielectric breakdown (TDDB) mechanisms in misaligned via chain structures are studied. The results show that for small and medium inline misalignments, the spacing reduction effect due to via protrusion dominates the variations of failure time distribution, and sqrt-E model can describe the correlation with good accuracy. In the case of larger misalignments, two process related early failure mechanisms have been found. One leakage path is the via bottom discontinuous and hollow area due to via misalignment caused etch-through into bottom dielectrics, and the other mode is related to excess remaining residues generated in the misaligned structure which are difficult to be to completely removed without robust wet clean process. Process optimization approach like the modified multiple-step post etch wet clean has been demonstrated to improve the weakness effectively.
Ebola Hemorrhagic Fever: Novel Biomarker Correlates of Clinical Outcome

Background. Ebola hemorrhagic fever (EHF) outbreaks occur sporadically in Africa and result in high rates of death. The 2000–2001 outbreak of Sudan virus–associated EHF in the Gulu district of Uganda led to 425 cases, of which 216 were laboratory confirmed, making it the largest EHF outbreak on record. Serum specimens from this outbreak had been preserved in liquid nitrogen from the time of collection and were available for analysis. Methods. Available samples were tested using a series of multiplex assays to measure the concentrations of 55 biomarkers. The data were analyzed to identify statistically significant associations between the tested biomarkers and hemorrhagic manifestations, viremia, and/or death. Results. Death, hemorrhage, and viremia were independently associated with elevated levels of several chemokines and cytokines. Death and hemorrhagewere associated with elevated thrombomodulin and ferritin levels. Hemorrhage was also associated with elevated levels of soluble intracellular adhesion molecule. Viremia was independently associated with elevated levels of tissue factor and tissue plasminogen activator. Finally, samples from nonfatal cases had higher levels of sCD40L. Conclusions. These novel associations provide a better understanding of EHF pathophysiology and a starting point for researching new potential targets for therapeutic interventions.
Synthesis of worldwide solar insolation data for photovoltaic system sizing

A solar insolation dataset for over 800 locations around the world is described. Data for 72 countries are represented between the latitudes of 60 degrees N and 60 degrees S. For each site, the estimated daily average insolation for each month is presented in kilowatt-hours per square meter for seven array orientations. This insolation database was created for designers of flat-plate photovoltaic (PV) power systems. The dataset will provide an estimate of solar insolation in a format that is easy to use and compare. The model predicts plane of array insolation adequately for most PV power system designs. The data for over 800 worldwide sites are presented in a consistent set of units and cross-indexed for easy access. >
Interactive Effects of Water Diversion and Climate Change for Juvenile Chinook Salmon in the Lemhi River Basin (U.S.A.)

The combined effects of water diversion and climate change are a major conservation challenge for freshwater ecosystems. In the Lemhi Basin, Idaho (U.S.A.), water diversion causes changes in streamflow, and climate change will further affect streamflow and temperature. Shifts in streamflow and temperature regimes can affect juvenile salmon growth, movement, and survival. We examined the potential effects of water diversion and climate change on juvenile Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha), a species listed as threatened under the U.S. Endangered Species Act (ESA). To examine the effects for juvenile survival, we created a model relating 19 years of juvenile survival data to streamflow and temperature and found spring streamflow and summer temperature were good predictors of juvenile survival. We used these models to project juvenile survival for 15 diversion and climate-change scenarios. Projected survival was 42-58% lower when streamflows were diverted than when streamflows were undiverted. For diverted streamflows, 2040 climate-change scenarios (ECHO-G and CGCM3.1 T47) resulted in an additional 11-39% decrease in survival. We also created models relating habitat carrying capacity to streamflow and made projections for diversion and climate-change scenarios. Habitat carrying capacity estimated for diverted streamflows was 17-58% lower than for undiverted streamflows. Climate-change scenarios resulted in additional decreases in carrying capacity for the dry (ECHO-G) climate model. Our results indicate climate change will likely pose an additional stressor that should be considered when evaluating the effects of anthropogenic actions on salmon population status. Thus, this type of analysis will be especially important for evaluating effects of specific actions on a particular species. Efectos Interactivos de la Desviacion del Agua y el Cambio Climatico en Individuos Juveniles de Salmon Chinook en la Cuenca del Rio Lemhi (E.U.A.).
Structural Basis for Activation of Class Ib Ribonucleotide Reductase

The class Ib ribonucleotide reductase of Escherichia coli can initiate reduction of nucleotides to deoxynucleotides with either a MnIII2-tyrosyl radical (Y•) or a FeIII2-Y• cofactor in the NrdF subunit. Whereas FeIII2-Y• can self-assemble from FeII2-NrdF and O2, activation of MnII2-NrdF requires a reduced flavoprotein, NrdI, proposed to form the oxidant for cofactor assembly by reduction of O2. The crystal structures reported here of E. coli MnII2-NrdF and FeII2-NrdF reveal different coordination environments, suggesting distinct initial binding sites for the oxidants during cofactor activation. In the structures of MnII2-NrdF in complex with reduced and oxidized NrdI, a continuous channel connects the NrdI flavin cofactor to the NrdF MnII2 active site. Crystallographic detection of a putative peroxide in this channel supports the proposed mechanism of MnIII2-Y• cofactor assembly.
The Effects of an Aqueous Medium on the Structure and Physical Properties of a Polyester Yarn

The effects of an aqueous-dodecylsulfate solution buffered to pH 5 at 100°C on the structure and physical properties of an oriented semicrystalline PET yarn were measured as a function of time. Chain relaxation resulting in longitudinal shrinkage is shown to be the primary molecular event, and crystallization to be a secondary process involving the newly-relaxed amorphous chains. Four major structural events are observed: 1) longitudinal shrinkage, 2) crystallization leading to structural stabiliza tion, 3) surface stress concentration, and 4) rapid hydrolysis and decline in molecular weight following surface cracking of the fibers to relieve surface stress concentrations. Comparison of the effects of aqueous, thermal, and solvent (dimethylformamide) treatments of PET suggests that the molecular mechanisms and kinetics of aqueous and of thermally-induced changes are similar. Solvent-induced changes are to a large extent controlled by diffusion processes. Aqueous and solvent-treated PET are similar, in tha...
Continuum Theory of Cholesteric Liquid Crystals

Based on the theory of micropolar viscoelasticity a continuum theory of cholesteric liquid crystals is presented. The balance laws of motion are given and a constitutive theory is derived and restricted by the second law of thermodynamics. Material symmetry restrictions are obtained by means of physical considerations. The theory includes thermomechanical effects of dissipation. The axis of ellipse and coefficient of optical activity are defined to characterize the helical structure of cholesteric liquid crystals. Analytically it is shown that in general the coefficient of optical activity depends on the temperature variations, deformation and mechanical stresses. Several special cases of practical importance are studied in detail. A coupling of longitudinal and twist waves along the axis of helix is investigated theoretically and corresponding experiments are suggested.
The Error Analysis of a Tridiagonal Solver

The Parallel Diagonal Dominant (PDD) Algorithm has been proposed for solving certain types of tridiagonal linear systems. The algorithm employ a matrix approximation. Both theoretical and experimental results have shown that the PDD algorithm is a highly efiient parallel algorithm for a variety of architectures. In this paper, the effect of this approximation is studied and a rigorous error analysis is given. The numerical results are presented.
Semaphorin3a Promotes Advanced Diabetic Nephropathy

The onset of diabetic nephropathy (DN) is highlighted by glomerular filtration barrier abnormalities. Identifying pathogenic factors and targetable pathways driving DN is crucial to developing novel therapies and improving the disease outcome. Semaphorin3a (sema3a) is a guidance protein secreted by podocytes. Excess sema3a disrupts the glomerular filtration barrier. Here, using immunohistochemistry, we show increased podocyte SEMA3A in renal biopsies from patients with advanced DN. Using inducible, podocyte-specific Sema3a gain-of-function (Sema3a(+)) mice made diabetic with streptozotocin, we demonstrate that sema3a is pathogenic in DN. Diabetic Sema3a(+) mice develop massive proteinuria, renal insufficiency, and extensive nodular glomerulosclerosis, mimicking advanced DN in humans. In diabetic mice, Sema3a(+) exacerbates laminin and collagen IV accumulation in Kimmelstiel-Wilson-like glomerular nodules and causes diffuse podocyte foot process effacement and F-actin collapse via nephrin, αvβ3 integrin, and MICAL1 interactions with plexinA1. MICAL1 knockdown and sema3a inhibition render podocytes not susceptible to sema3a-induced shape changes, indicating that MICAL1 mediates sema3a-induced podocyte F-actin collapse. Moreover, sema3a binding inhibition or podocyte-specific plexinA1 deletion markedly ameliorates albuminuria and abrogates renal insufficiency and the diabetic nodular glomerulosclerosis phenotype of diabetic Sema3a(+) mice. Collectively, these findings indicate that excess sema3a promotes severe diabetic nephropathy and identifies novel potential therapeutic targets for DN.
O modelo americano de jornalismo: excepção ou exemplo?

The paper traces the evolution of American journalism, articulating it with the evolution of US society and cultural values. The author focusses on the historical development of American journalism from proximity to political power down to an increasing detachment due to the change of political culture in the twentieth century. The argument is that the current engaged and opposing model of American journalism cannot be simply implemented within a different cultural system. It stems from a unique history, it was shaped by a particular relationship with political institutions and their political culture, but can, nevertheless, serve as an ideal and inspiration for political journalism in other socio-cultural environments.
SPECTROFLUOROMETRIC DETERMINATION OF CHLOROPHYLL(IDE) a AND b AND PHEOPHYTIN (OR PHEOPHORBIDE) a AND b IN UNSEGREGATED PIGMENT MIXTURES

— Simultaneous equations were derived for the determination of chlorophyllide a and b and pheophorbide a and b in unsegregated mixtures of the four tetrapyrroles. The same equations can also be used for the determination of chlorophyll a and b and pheophytin a and b in unsegregated mixtures, after separation of the phytylated tetrapyrroles from their unphytylated analogs by solvent extraction. The equations are capable of calculating the fluorescence Soret excitation amplitude contributed solely by any one of the four tetrapyrroles in the mixture, from two Soret excitation spectra recorded at emission wavelengths of 674 and 660 nm respectively. The Soret excitation amplitudes are then converted into concentrations by reference to standard calibration curves. The equations are usable with any excitation corrected spectrofluorometer. They are particularly suited for the study of Chl‡catabo-lism with minimum generation of chemical artifacts.
Intraspecific phenotypic variation among alewife populations drives parallel phenotypic shifts in bluegill

Evolutionary diversification within consumer species may generate selection on local ecological communities, affecting prey community structure. However, the extent to which this niche construction can propagate across food webs and shape trait variation in competing species is unknown. Here, we tested whether niche construction by different life-history variants of the planktivorous fish alewife (Alosa pseudoharengus) can drive phenotypic divergence and resource use in the competing species bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus). Using a combination of common garden experiments and a comparative field study, we found that bluegill from landlocked alewife lakes grew relatively better when fed small than large zooplankton, had gill rakers better adapted for feeding on small-bodied prey and selected smaller zooplankton compared with bluegill from lakes with anadromous or no alewife. Observed shifts in bluegill foraging traits in lakes with landlocked alewife parallel those in alewife, suggesting interspecific competition leading to parallel phenotypic changes rather than to divergence (which is commonly predicted). Our findings suggest that species may be locally adapted to prey communities structured by different life-history variants of a competing dominant species.
Why It Is Difficult to Teach Comparative Politics to American Students

ment to the Socratic Method." PS: Political Science & Politics 24(4): 703-05. Hensley, Thomas R. 1980. "Krause v. Rhodes: The Kent State Civil Trial Simulation." In Charles Walcott, Simple Simulations 2. Washington, DC: American Political Science Association. Lenchner, Paul. 1989. "Introducing American Government Through a You-Be-theJudge Exercise." The Political Science Teacher 2: 1-12. Pacelle, Richard L. 1989. "Simulating Supreme Court Decision Making." The Political Science Teacher 2: 9-11. Pohlmann, Marcus D. 1986. "Simulations: Urban Fiscal Crisis." News for Teachers of Political Science 51: 15-16. Selcher, Wayne A., and E. Fletcher McClellan. 1990. "Sequential Writing Assignments in International Relations and American Government Survey Courses." The Political Science Teacher 3: 14-16. Walcott, Charles. 1976. Simple Simulations. Washington, DC: American Political Sciennce Association. Walcott, Charles. 1980. Simple Simulations 2. Washington, DC: American Political Science Association. Whitaker, Steve. 1973. "A Role-Playing Simulation of the United States Supreme Court." Teaching Political Science 1: 47-53. About the Author
Mass and energy exchange between the atmosphere and leaf influence gas pressurization in aquatic plants

A mechanistic model was used to describe how mass and energy exchange between a leaf and air affect internal pressurization in aquatic plants. The core of the model is the calculation of the temperature of a leaf for which the energy balance is zero. The leaf temperature and water vapour gradient between leaf and air are then used to calculate potential pressurization. Simulations with the model were used to demonstrate the sensitivity of gas pressurization in aquatic plants to key environmental and physiological factors including radiation, temperature, humidity, wind speed, leaf size and leaf conductance. The model confirms other published data showing that humidity-induced pressurization is the dominant mode of pressurization under most conditions. The simulations also demonstrated that thermal transpiration and humidity-induced pressurization are not separate phenomena, but are dependent on the energy balance of the leaf, which in turn is affected by complex interactions between the leaf and environment.
Trans-Pacific transport of black carbon and fine aerosols (D < 2.5 μm) into North America

[1] This study presents estimates of long-range transport of black carbon (BC) and aerosol fine mass (diameter less than 2.5 μm) across the Pacific Ocean into North America during April 2004. These transport estimates are based on simulations by the Chemical Weather Forecast System (CFORS) model and evaluated across 130°W, (30°N–60°N) from 26 March through 25 April 2004. CFORS calculates BC transport into North America at 25–32 Gg of which over 75% originates from Asia. Modeled fine aerosol mass transport is between 900 and 1100 Gg. The BC transport amounts to about 77% of the published estimates of North American BC emissions. Approximately 78% of the BC and 82% of the fine aerosol mass transport occur in the midtroposphere above 2 km. Given the relatively large magnitude of the estimated BC transport, we undertake a detailed validation of the model simulations of fine aerosol mass and BC over the west coast of North America. In situ aircraft data were available for the month of April 2004 to assess the accuracy of model simulations of aerosols in the lower troposphere. Aircraft data for aerosol mass collected in the eastern Pacific Ocean during April 2004 as part of the Cloud Indirect Forcing Experiment, as well as surface measurements of fine mass and BC at 30 west coast locations, are compared to CFORS predictions. These surface sites are part of the Interagency Monitoring of Protected Visual Environments (IMPROVE) network. Both the aircraft and the IMPROVE data sets reveal similar patterns of good agreement near and above the boundary layer accompanied by large overprediction within the boundary layer. The observational data validate the CFORS simulations of BC and fine aerosol mass above the boundary layer. The near-surface overprediction does not impair the major conclusions of this study regarding long-range aerosol and BC transport, as most of the long-range transport occurs above 2 km. From this we conclude that the transport of BC from Asia and other regions west is a major source of BC at high elevations over North America. The simulated concentrations of BC between 1 and 3 km, as well as the measured BC concentrations over the elevated IMPROVE sites, range from 0.1 to 0.3 μg/m3. Direct radiative forcing over North America due to the modeled BC concentration between 1 and 15 km is estimated at an additional 2.04–2.55 W/m2 absorbed in the atmosphere and a dimming of −1.45 to −1.47 W/m2 at the surface. The impact of transported BC on the regional radiation budget through direct and indirect effects of the transported BC and other aerosols warrants further study.
The Risks of Not Breastfeeding for Mothers and Infants

Health outcomes in developed countries differ substantially for mothers and infants who formula feed compared with those who breastfeed. For infants, not being breastfed is associated with an increased incidence of infectious morbidity, as well as elevated risks of childhood obesity, type 1 and type 2 diabetes, leukemia, and sudden infant death syndrome. For mothers, failure to breastfeed is associated with an increased incidence of premenopausal breast cancer, ovarian cancer, retained gestational weight gain, type 2 diabetes, myocardial infarction, and the metabolic syndrome. Obstetricians are uniquely positioned to counsel mothers about the health impact of breastfeeding and to ensure that mothers and infants receive appropriate, evidence-based care, starting at birth.
Using the ACNP Proficiency Testing Program to Develop Critical Thinking

Critical thinking is cited as one of the essential skills for clinical practice. Educators need to be aware of barriers that may hinder the development of this skill in students and cultivate strategies to encourage it. This article describes one strategy to develop critical thinking. Methods: Students participated in a critical thinking exercise by imaging the American College of Nuclear Physicians (ACNP) Renal Imaging Proficiency Test Phantom, critiquing their results, and comparing their results to results collected nationally in other nuclear medicine facilities and the true values reported by the ACNP. Students were instructed to review pertinent imaging principles before discussing the imaging results. They also were supplied with a list of questions pertinent to the review. Results: Students experienced the complexity of designing a SPECT imaging protocol and how the final results are affected by the choices made by the technologist. They learned the importance of and method for proper matrix selection, determination of pixel size and the necessity for quality control. Conclusion: The imaging exercise was a successful means of helping students connect clinical practice with theory through the use of critical thinking.
Using Biomedically Relevant Multimedia Content in an Introductory Physics Course for Life Science and Pre-health Students

We will describe a one-quarter pilot algebra-based introductory physics course for pre-health and life science majors. The course features videos with biomedical experts and cogent biomedically inspired physics content. The materials were used in a flipped classroom as well as an all-online environment where students interacted with multimedia materials online and prior to engaging in classroom activities. Pre-lecture questions on both the medical content covered in the video media and the physics concepts in the written material were designed to engage students and probe their understanding of physics. The course featured group discussion and peer-lead instruction. Following in-class instruction, students engaged with homework assignments which explore the connections of physics and the medical field in a quantitative manner. Course surveys showed a positive response by the vast majority of students. Students largely indicated that the course helped them to make a connection between physics and the biomedical field. The biomedical focus and different course format were seen as an improvement to previous traditional physics instruction.
Breathability of Standalone Poly(vinyl alcohol) Nanofiber Webs

Standalone poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) nanowebs were developed in an environmentally friendly manner, and their breathability values were obtained. The strength of nanowebs was enhanced by heat cross-linking. Breathability values of untreated and heat cross-linked nanowebs remain the same indicating that stronger nanowebs can be developed without compromising its breathability. Transmission FTIR showed an increase in the crystallinity and no significant changes in the structure of PVA nanowebs after heat cross-linking. Stronger and breathable nanowebs can find broader applications such as tissue culture scaffolds, protective clothing liners, and air filters.
Estimation of plasma androgenic and progestational steroids in the laying hen.

SummaryPreliminary studies using double-isotope and electron-capture methods revealed the presence of progesterone, 20α-hydroxy-pregn-4-en-3-one, 20β-hydroxy-pregn-4-en-3-one, testosterone, and δ4-andros-tenedione in the plasma of the mature laying hen.
A Model for Investigating the Interaction Between Go-Arounds and Runway Throughput

When an arriving aircraft executes a go-around, runway throughput (as measured in landings per hour) decreases. The objective of this paper is to understand the interaction between go-arounds, reduced separation, and runway throughput. This paper develops a model of the arrival and go-around process using stochastic models of aircraft separation and runway occupancy times. The model is based on a previous model by Jeddi et al. and is extended in several ways in this paper. For example, the model accounts for all categories of go-arounds, not just those related to separation issues. The model is fitted with recent data on observed go-around rates from Sherry et al. A sensitivity analysis is conducted to quantify trade-offs between different parameters in the model and their impact on throughput, holding go-around rates fixed. One parameter of interest is the variance of inter-arrival separation, which is expected to be reduced under NextGen.
Sites of Successful Ventricular Fibrillation Ablation in Bileaflet Mitral Valve Prolapse Syndrome

Background— Although the vast majority of mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is benign, a small subset of patients, predominantly women, with bileaflet prolapse, complex ventricular ectopy (VE), and abnormal T waves comprise the recently described bileaflet MVP syndrome. We compared findings on electrophysiological study in bileaflet MVP syndrome patients with and without cardiac arrest to identify factors that may predispose to malignant ventricular arrhythmia. Methods and Results— Fourteen consecutive bileaflet MVP syndrome patients (n=13 women; median [limits], age at index ablation, 33.8 [21.0–58.7] years; ejection fraction, 60% [45%–67%]; all ≤ moderate mitral regurgitation; n=6 with previous cardiac arrest and implantable cardioverter defibrillator shocks for ventricular fibrillation; and n=8 without implantable cardioverter defibrillator although with symptomatic complex VE) were included. The 2 groups had similar baseline echocardiographic and electrocardiographic characteristics. All patients had at least 1 left ventricular papillary or fascicular VE focus. Purkinje origin VE was identified as the ventricular fibrillation trigger in 6 of 6 cardiac arrest patients (4 from papillary muscle) and Purkinje origin of dominant VE was seen in 5 of 8 (3 from papillary muscle) nonarrest patients. Acute success was seen in 17 of 19 procedures, and a ventricular fibrillation storm occurred within 24 hours of ablation in a single patient. Repeat ablation for recurrent symptomatic arrhythmia was performed in 6 patients. At 478 (39–2099) days of follow-up, 2 cardiac arrest patients received appropriate shocks. Symptoms from VE were reduced in 12 of 14. Conclusions— Bileaflet MVP syndrome is characterized by fascicular and papillary muscle VE that triggers ventricular fibrillation. Ablation of clinically dominant VE foci improves symptoms and reduces appropriate implantable cardioverter defibrillator shocks.
Demonstration of kallikrein-like protease activity in nonactivated plasma of patients with Cooley's anemia.

Routine evaluation of 12 children with Cooley9s anemia revealed that each one had a prolonged partial thromboplastin time. However, prothrombin time and thrombin time were within the normal range. Specific assays demonstrated low levels of the four contact factors: factors XI, XII, prekallikrein, and high molecular weight kininogen. Further investigation revealed activity against para-nitroanilide peptide substrates in unactivated plasma from all 12 patients. Following gel filtration on Sephadex G200, the activity emerged in one peak in the void volume, indicating a molecular weight of greater the 500,000. Activity was greatest against H-D-Pro-Phe-Arg-pNA, the substrate for plasma kallikrein, and was inhibited by diisopropyl fluorophosphate and trasolyl. It was unaffected by hirudin, soy bean trypsin inhibitor, and lima bean trypsin inhibitor. It was destroyed by heating at 56 degrees C. Specific antisera against human prekallikrein and human alpha-macroglobulin did not reduce the activity. It is concluded that a high molecular weight kallikrein-like protease, is present in the plasma of these patients. It is postulated that it is released into the circulation from tissue as a result of damage due to iron overload. It is further postulated that this protease brings about in vivo activation of the contrast factors, resulting in a fall in their circulating levels.
Rejection with duodenal rupture after solitary pancreas transplantation: An unusual cause of severe hematuria

A common urologic complication after pancreas transplantation with bladder drainage is hematuria. However, hematuria is usually mild and self-limiting and rarely requires open surgical intervention. We report an unusual case of refractory hematuria that began 17 days after solitary pancreas transplantation due to severe rejection. The patient developed severe duodenal segment swelling with mucosal rupture that eventually required operative therapy. This case is illustrative of the diagnosis and management of gross hematuria after pancreas transplantation and demonstrates the limitations of cystoscopic techniques. This unusual complication must be considered in the differential diagnosis of refractory hematuria with pancreas allograft dysfunction and may represent a problem unique to solitary pancreas transplantation until better immunosuppressive strategies are available.
Rare earth at Bearlodge: anthropocentric and biocentric perspectives of mining development in a multiple use landscape

Multiple use livelihoods and recreational activities provide important economic opportunities for communities throughout the American west, especially in rural areas where public lands are the primary income generator. Federal lands also provide incentives for mining development as the “highest and best use” of the land. This tension between civil society, the mining corporation, and the state as dual regulator/facilitator of natural resource development is most apparent during the public comment period of the environmental assessment process. Such is the case with the Bearlodge mine in the Black Hills National Forest of Wyoming, which has the potential to be the only domestic producer of critical rare earth elements. Therefore, I ask: How do perspectives about control of and access to common property resources and the role of humans as part or separate from an ecological system converge or diverge between community, state, and market stakeholders? To answer this, a Q method survey was carried out from groups representative of the different economic and environmental perspectives related to mining development: environmentalists, the mining/energy sector, state/federal regulators, foresters, local land holders, and recreationalists. Results show that stakeholders fall into two categories: anthropocentrists who desire economic development from the mine for human benefit, even given the potential for environmental harm and curtailed access to multiple use activities; and biocentrists who continue to push for a no development alternative where nature is preserved for nature’s sake and existing livelihoods that help to maintain an already altered environment are able to remain and sustain rural economies.
Preliminary Findings from the Prospective Multicenter Surveillance, Epidemiology and Risk Factors for Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (SERF-TTP) Study.

Abstract Background: Due to the rarity of TTP (approximately 4 cases per million), epidemiologic data and correlative laboratory samples from a prospectively identified incident cohort of TTP patients are needed. Methods: SERF TTP is a NHLBI-funded 15-site study targeted to identify 300 incident TTP patients and 600 age-/gender-matched community controls. Results: From nine IRB-approved collaborating sites, 22 incident TTP cases and 17 controls have been interviewed. Data and plasma (acute and convalescent samples) are available for 19 TTP patients (Table 1). Their mean age is 42.5 years (range, 20 – 80 years), and 90% are female. Using the Rose-Eldor TTP Scoring system based on platelets, creatinine, hemoglobin, and neurologic function, 37% would be classified as severely ill (score > 4 of a maximum 8 points). Mean time from symptom onset to diagnosis was 9.2 days, median 5.5 days (range, 0 to 33 days). Severity of TTP was poorer for the 5 patients whose treatment did not begin for at least 16 days (16–33 days) versus the other 14 patients (mean Rose-Eldor score of 4.6 versus 4). Medications which had been prescribed to the patients prior to TTP onset included herbal supplements (n= 5) and hormone replacement therapy or oral contraceptives (n= 6). All patients received at least daily therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE). A platelet count >150,000 was reached at a mean of 9.4 days following TPE initiation. At 30-days follow-up, all patients were alive, although 3 had an exacerbation requiring daily TPE reinstitution. Fourteen patients (78%) experienced an adverse event, including allergic reactions to plasma (n=9), citrate-related toxicity (n=9) and venous access complications (n=2) including one with major hemorrhage requiring transfer to the intensive care unit. Conclusion: The clinical characteristics of the SERF-TTP cohort are similar to those reported from large single-site studies, although the survival rate (100% versus 71% and 83%) is higher. Only a minority of incident TTP cases in the modern era present with renal insufficiency or neurologic findings - highlighting the importance of developing reliable diagnostic laboratory testing. Clinical Characteristics at Presentation Study Platelets Hgb Cr > 2mg/dl Fever Neurologic symptoms Mortality SERF-TTP n=19 95% 79% 32% 11% 47% 0% Washington University (1) (excluding HSCT/FK506 cases) n= 28 96% 82% 29% 32% 50% 29% Oklahoma TTP-HUS Registry (2) (ADAMTS13 100% 100% 22% NA (Not Available) 56% 17% (1)Zheng XL, Kaufman RM et al. Blood. 2004; 103: 4043; (2)Vesely SK, George JN et al. Blood. 2003; 102: 60. HSCT: Hematopoetic stem cell transplantation, FK-506: Tacrolimus.
What We Know, What We Think We Know, and What We Do Not Know at All: The Contemporary Conundrum of Secondary-Prevention Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator Therapy

See Article by Ladejobi et al Despite recent improvements, the overall survival rate for cardiac arrest is abysmal.1–3 For electrophysiologists consulting on cardiac arrest survivors before discharge, the decision to offer a secondary-prevention implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) is often reflexive. The newly updated guideline recommendations for secondary prevention of sudden cardiac death (SCD) do not differ substantially from prior versions: for patients who survive cardiac arrest due to ventricular tachycardia (VT) or ventricular fibrillation (VF), or who experience sustained VT, not due to reversible causes, an ICD is recommended.4 The evidence basis for these recommendations is the 3 secondary prevention trials: AVID (Antiarrhythmics Versus Implantable Defibrillators Trial),5 which showed a significant mortality benefit from ICD therapy, CASH (the Cardiac Arrest Study Hamburg),6 and CIDS (Canadian Implantable Defibrillator Study)7; the latter 2 also demonstrating a similar but nonstatistically significant reduction in mortality afforded by ICD therapy. An individual patient-level pooled meta-analysis confirmed consistency of trial results and a significant reduction in mortality associated with ICD therapy (hazard ratio, 0.72; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.60–0.87; P =0.0006).8 Despite this seeming simplicity, secondary prevention is in fact much more complex and much less clear than it appears, particularly in the contemporary era of diagnosis and treatment of acute coronary syndromes. Crucial to the decision regarding the benefit of ICD therapy is the concept of a reversible cause—what is it, how do we recognize and treat it, and is the identified cause truly reversible? The angst inherent to this detective work is not new—in 2001, the AVID investigators published an analysis of the AVID registry subgroup composed of patients otherwise eligible for the trial who were not enrolled due to identification of a presumed transient or correctable cause for SCD.9 This group of 274 …
Digitally switchable multi-focal lens using freeform optics

Optical technologies offering electrically tunable optical power have found a broad range of applications, from head-mounted displays for virtual and augmented reality applications to microscopy. In this paper, we present a novel design and prototype of a digitally switchable multi-focal lens (MFL) that offers the capability of rapidly switching the optical power of the system among multiple foci. It consists of a freeform singlet and a customized programmable optical shutter array (POSA). Time-multiplexed multiple foci can be obtained by electrically controlling the POSA to switch the light path through different segments of the freeform singlet rapidly. While this method can be applied to a broad range of imaging and display systems, we experimentally demonstrate a proof-of-concept prototype for a multi-foci imaging system.
Late toxicity after post-prostatectomy intensity modulated radiation therapy: Evaluating normal-tissue sparing guidelines.

Abstract Purpose Dose-volume histogram (DVH) toxicity relationships are poorly defined in men who receive radiation after radical prostatectomy (RP). We evaluated Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) study 0534 and institutional intact normal-tissue sparing guidelines, as well as dose to bladder trigone, for ability to minimize late toxicity. Methods and materials 164 men received intensity modulated radiation therapy (RT) to a median prostate bed dose of 66.6 Gy at a median of 22 months after RP. 46% of men were prescribed androgen deprivation therapy and pelvic lymph node irradiation to a median dose of 50.4 Gy. DVH relationships for the rectum, bladder, trigone, and bladder excluding the clinical target volume (bladder-CTV) were analyzed against the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events late grade 2 + (G2+) gastrointestinal (GI) and genitourinary (GU) toxicity by log-rank test. RTOG 0534 (rectum V65, 40 Gy ≤35, 55%, and bladder-CTV V65, 40 ≤50, 70%) and intact prostate RT institutional guidelines (rectum V70, 65, 40 ≤20, 40, 80% and bladder V70, 65, 40 ≤30, 60, 80%, respectively) guidelines were evaluated. Results With a median follow-up time of of 33 months, the 4-year freedom from G2 + GI and GU toxicity were both 91%. G2 + GI (n = 12) and GU (n = 15) toxicity included 4% diarrhea (n = 6), 4% hemorrhage (n = 6), 1% proctitis (n = 1), and 4% urinary frequency (n = 7), 1% obstructive (n = 2), 2% cystitis (n = 3), and 3% incontinence (n = 5), respectively. RTOG 0534 rectum and bladder goals were not achieved in 65% and 41% of cases, while the institutional intact prostate goals were not achieved in 21% and 25% of cases, respectively. Neither dose to the bladder trigone nor any of the proposed normal tissue goals were associated with late toxicity (P > .1). In the univariate analysis, age, pelvic RT, RT dose, anticoagulation use, androgen deprivation therapy, time from RP to RT, and tobacco history were not associated with toxicity. Conclusions More than 90% of men were free from late G2 + toxicity 4 years after post-RP intensity modulated RT. No tested parameters were associated with late toxicity. In the absence of established normal-tissue DVH guidelines in the postoperative setting, the use of intact guidelines is reasonable.
Review of antimicrobial use and considerations in the elderly population

Pharmacologic management of infections in elderly patients presents multiple challenges to health care professionals due to variable pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and immune function. Age is a well-established risk factor for infection, but furthermore is a risk factor for prolonged length of hospital stay, increased incidence of complications, and significant and sustained decline in baseline functional status. In 2014, 46.2 million Americans were aged ≥65 years, accounting for 14.5% of the total population. By 2033, for the first time, the population of persons aged ≥65 years is projected to outnumber the people <18 years of age. According to the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey and the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey, 154 million prescriptions for antimicrobials were estimated to have been written in doctors' offices and emergency departments during a 1-year time period. In 2014, 266.1 million courses of antimicrobials were dispensed to outpatients by US community pharmacies. A study that evaluated 2007-2009 Medicare Part D data found that patients aged ≥65 years used more antimicrobials, at 1.10 per person per year, compared to 0.88 antimicrobials used per person per year in patients aged 0-64 years. With the abundance of antimicrobial prescriptions and the current growth in the number and proportion of older adults in the US, it is essential that health care providers understand appropriate antimicrobial pharmacotherapy in the elderly patient. This review focuses on the use and implications of antimicrobial agents in the elderly population.