cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Detection of low numbers of Bacillus anthracis spores in three soils using five commercial DNA extraction methods with and without an enrichment step.

Aims: To (i) compare the limits of detection of Bacillus anthracis spores in three soils (one Florida, one Texas, and one a commercial Garden product) by PCR using DNA extracted with five commercial extraction kits and (ii) examine if removing organic acids or adding an enrichment step utilizing a growth medium will improve the detection limits. Methods and Results: Bacillus anthracis spores were added to soil aliquots and used immediately with a DNA extraction kit or pretreated to remove organics or incubated overnight in a selective growth medium before the DNA extraction was performed. Using hybridization and PCR assays for capC, pag and lef genes, 10 5 ‐10 6 B. anthracis spores were detected in untreated Florida soil, 10 4 ‐ 10 7 spores in untreated Texas soil and 10 6 ‐10 7 in Garden soil. Pretreatment did not reliably improve detection. DNA from untreated and pretreated soils was suitable for hybridization but not always for PCR. When 10 1 ‐10 2 spores were added to the soils and allowed to amplify in a growth medium selective for B. anthracis, DNA extracted using four methods reliably produced PCR acceptable DNA positive for the B. anthracis genes. Conclusions: The quality of DNA extracted with commercial kits appears to be influenced by the soil type and pretreatment. Yet, with an enrichment step added, four of five extraction methods produced PCR suitable DNA and detected £10 2 spores. Significance and Impact of the Study: The enrichment step could enhance the detection of B. anthracis spores in soils and small samples contaminated with soil.
Overlapping and Multilevel Schwarz Methods for Vector Valued Elliptic Problems in Three Dimensions

This paper is intended as a survey of current results on algorithmic and theoretical aspects of overlapping Schwarz methods for discrete H(curl;Ω) and H(div;Ω)-elliptic problems set in suitable finite element spaces. The emphasis is on a unified framework for the motivation and theoretical study of the various approaches developed in recent years.
Mapping of a Mutation, polB100, Affecting Deoxyribonucleic Acid Polymerase II in Escherichia coli K-12

Direct assay for deoxyribonucleic acid polymerase II in extracts has been used to screen recombinants for the polB allele in Hfr × F− crosses, F-ductants in episome transfer, and transductants in generalized transduction by phage P1. The polB gene is located at 2 min on the Escherichia coli linkage map; it is 39 to 64% co-transducible with leu. A mutant, E. coli polA1 polB100 polC (ts), deficient in deoxyribonucleic acid polymerases I and II and having a thermolabile deoxyribonucleic acid polymerase III, has been prepared by the P1-mediated cross: P1 (HMS85 polB100) × E. coli BT1026 polA1 polC (ts) leu−.
The human genome revealed.

Seeing the International Sequencing Consortium's draft of the human genome is highly satisfying. The way in which its 3 billion bases have been determined closely followed the course outlined more than a decade ago by the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) Committee on “Mapping and Sequencing the Human Genome.” Bruce Alberts, now the President of the NAS, was its chairman and I one of its 14 other members. The predictions in our 1988 report, that the human genome could be sequenced over a 15-year period for a cost of three billion dollars, were more accurate than we dared guess. Two more years of work, to fill in gaps and correct mistakes, will result in an almost errorless genetic script for human existence.
Numerical interval simulation: combined qualitative and quantitative simulation to bound behaviors of non-monotonic systems

Models of complex physical systems often cannot be defined precisely, either because of lack of knowledge or because the system parameters change over time according to unknown phenomena. Such systems can be represented by semi-quantitative models that combine both qualitative and quantitative knowledge. This paper presents Numerical Interval Simulation, a method that can produce tight predictions of systems involving nonmonotonic functions. We present a successful application of NIS to predict the behavior of a complex process at a Brazilian-Japanese steel company. We claim that such capability of simulating nonmonotonic functions is fundamental in order to handle real-world complex industrial processes.
Is the persistence of shocks to output asymmetric

Abstract This paper provides evidence that the persistence of positive shocks to output is not significantly different from the persistence of negative shocks. This contrasts the results of Beaudry and Koop (1993) Journal of Monetary Economics 31, 149–163 showing asymmetry in the effects of innovations to GNP. An unobserved components model modified to incorporate a threshold process is used to examine GNP as well as industrial production data. Its ability to discriminate between positive and negative output shocks and separately estimate their enduring effects provides for a more cogent test of symmetry in the persistence of shocks.
Lady beetles as predators of insects other than Hemiptera

Abstract Entomophagous lady beetles often prey on a variety of insects in addition to the Hemiptera (Sternorrhyncha) for which they are well-known natural enemies. Many species (particularly those well-adapted for consuming aphids) appear opportunistic in their use of non-hemipteran prey. Others may have evolved especially from aphidophagous habits to use non-hemipteran prey (particularly eggs and larvae of Coleoptera) as primary prey. Numerous field studies of lady beetles as both opportunistic and more specialized predators of non-hemipteran prey (e.g., immature stages of Lepidoptera and Coleoptera) collectively reveal wide variation from little to large impact both among prey species, and within single prey species in differing settings. Opportunistic species of lady beetles in particular are quite variable in their abilities to grow, develop, and reproduce on diets of non-hemipteran prey. They are also quite variable in prey preferences and in their apparent predilections to attack non-hemipteran prey. Additional studies of behavioral and numerical responses of different groups of lady beetles to different kinds of insect prey, and of the relative abilities of lady beetles to thrive on diets of non-hemipteran as well as hemipteran prey, are needed for further insights into the evolutionary basis and ecological significance of diet among entomophagous lady beetles. Such insights in turn will strengthen our ability to assess the impact of lady beetle predation in the population dynamics of non-hemipteran prey, and to capitalize on the potential of such impact by promoting lady beetle predation in the management of non-hemipteran insect pests.
Chemical synthesis of bovine transforming growth factor-α: Synthesis, characterization and biological activity

Bovine transforming growth factor-alpha (bTGF-alpha) is a 50 amino acid polypeptide with three disulfide linkages. In order to evaluate the biological function of this peptide, bTGF-alpha was synthesized via an automatic synthesizer and purified to homogeneity in high yield. The integrity of this synthetic peptide was confirmed by chemical analyses and bioassays. In a bovine liver radioreceptor assay, bTGF-alpha competes with radiolabeled EGF and has activity comparable to mEGF and hTGF-alpha. Compared to hEGF, bTGF-alpha elicits a greater response in a bovine mammary cell proliferation.
Menkes gene: A potential locus for copper metabolism

We have been concerned with the functional significance of small poly (A)+ RNAs with partial Menkes mRNA sequence that are found in non-Menkes human cells. One of these RNAs appears to have formed through a splicing event that excised exons 3–15 and formed a union between exons 2 and 16. This variant is common to nearly all the human cells lines that have been examined in this laboratory and, of greater interest, appeared in HepG2 cells and undifferentiated human placental cells that do not express the full-length transcript. The data suggest that the Menkes gene, through splicing modifications, may code for more than one protein. What is presently considered a gene for a single protein may be a locus for a network of proteins involved in intracellular copper trafficking. J. Trace Elem. Exp. Med. 12:331–335, 1999. © 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Cotton response to in-row subsoiling and potassium fertilizer placement in Alabama

In the USA a suggested method for correcting late season K deficiencies in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) is by in-row deep placement of K fertilizer. Experiments were conducted on three Alabama soils (southeastern USA) for 3 years to evaluate cotton response to K fertilizer when surface broadcast with and without in-row subsoiling (to 38 cm depth) or deep placed in the in-row subsoil channel. Potassium was applied at rates ranging from 0 to 84 kg K ha−1. Deep placement was achieved with a fertilizer applicator developed to distribute dry fertilizer at three depths down the back of the subsoil shank. All three soils also had deep placement treatments of 1680 kg ha−1 agricultural limestone with and without 84 kg K ha−1. Soils were an Emory silt loam (fine-silty, siliceous Fluventic Umbric Dystrochrepts), a Norfolk sandy loam (fine-loamy, siliceous Typic Kandiudults), and a Lucedale sandy clay loam (fine-loamy, siliceous Rhodic Paleuduts). All three soils had medium soil test K concentrations in the plow layer and medium or low concentrations of K at greater depths. The Norfolk soil had a well-developed traffic pan and in-row subsoiling increased seed cotton yields by an average of 22% during the 3 years of the study. Cotton responded to K fertilization in 2 out of 3 years at each location (6 out of 9 site-years) regardless of the method of K application. Annual applications of 84 kg K ha−1 increased 3 year average seed cotton yields by 17%, 10% and 19% on the Emory, Norfolk and Lucedale soils, respectively. Deep placement of agricultural limestone with or without K fertilizer for cotton did not increase cotton yields.
The impact of sea level rise on Singapore

Global climate change is expected to cause sea level rise, which will have major effects on Singapore because it is a small, low-lying island state. With the high degree of urbanization and industrialization on the island, land is scarce and very valuable. Examining three sea level rise scenarios for the next century, we explore whether Singapore should defend their coast or allow it to be inundated. Across ten coastal sites representing all market land in Singapore, we found that protection was the lowest cost strategy. The annual cost of protecting the coasts of Singapore will rise over time as the sea level rises and will range from 0.3 to 5.7 million US$ by 2050 to 0.9 to 16.8 million US$ by 2100. The present value of these costs ranges from 0.17 to 3.08 million US$ depending on the sea level rise scenario.
A heat exchanger model that includes axial conduction, parasitic heat loads, and property variations

High performance heat exchangers are a critical component in many cryogenic systems and the performance of these devices is typically very sensitive to axial conduction, property variations, and parasitic heat losses to the environment. This paper presents a numerical model of a heat exchanger in which these effects are explicitly modeled. The governing equations are derived, nondimensionalized, discretized, and solved on an exponentially distributed grid. The resulting numerical model is simple to implement and computationally efficient and can therefore easily be integrated into complex system models. The numerical model is validated against analytical solutions in the appropriate limits and then used to investigate the effect of heat exchanger end conditions (adiabatic vs fixed temperature) and radiation parasitics. The numerical model, which explicitly considers the combined effect of several loss mechanisms as they interact, is compared to simple models that consider these effects separately. Finally, the model is applied to an example heat exchanger core under a specific set of operating conditions in order to demonstrate its utility. This numerical model may also be used to examine the effect of property variations including temperature driven changes in specific heat capacity, metal conductivity, parasitic heat load, and heat transfer coefficients and is therefore useful in the design of a variety of cryogenic system components including counter- and parallel-flow heat exchangers for gas liquefaction, mixed-gas refrigeration, and reverse Brayton systems.
Effects of Dietary Selenomethionine on Cutthroat Trout (Oncorhynchus clarki bouvieri) Growth and Reproductive Performance Over a Life Cycle

A 2.5-year feeding trial was conducted in which cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarki bouvieri) were fed either a basal diet (1.2 microg Se/g diet) or the basal diet supplemented with 2, 4, 6, 8, or 10 microg Se/g diet as selenomethionine from 1 g weight to maturation [corrected]. After 44 weeks of feeding, a subsample of fish was removed from dietary treatment groups and fed the basal diet for an additional 32 weeks. Concentrations of Se in whole fish and eggs increased in proportion to dietary Se intake, but no differences in growth, feed intake, survival, or egg hatchability were observed among dietary groups. Cranial-facial deformities in second-generation offspring were less than 6% in all treatment groups except for fish fed the diet supplemented with 4 microg Se/g diet as selenomethionine [corrected], where a 9.2% incidence was observed. Fish switched from selenomethionine-supplemented diets to the basal diet lost Se, calculated as microg Se lost/g weight gain, at 1.01, 2.84, 4.42, and 4.42 for dietary treatment groups 3, 4, 5, and 6, respectively. Results suggest no toxicity of dietary selenomethionine up to 10 microg/g supplemented diet and that with total life-cycle exposure, cutthroat trout increase Se excretion to maintain whole-body concentrations below toxic levels.
Cohort study of fever and leukocytosis as diagnostic and prognostic indicators in infected surgical patients.

The presence of fever and leukocytosis have traditionally been utilized as important diagnostic markers of infection despite some who question their reliability. To examine this point, the role of fever and leukocytosis as diagnostic and prognostic indicators for surgical infections was evaluated. A prospective observational study was performed on all patients with suspected infection in 1997 on the general surgical services at a university hospital. Fever was defined as maximum temperature (Tmax) ≥ 38.5°C, and leukocytosis was defined as a white blood cell (WBC) count ≥ 11,000/μl. Among all infections, patients presenting with a Tmax ≥ 38.5°C were younger (51.3 ± 1.1 vs. 53.8 ± 0.9 years, p= 0.005) and had a higher APACHE II score (15.1 ± 0.5 vs. 11.4 ± 0.4; p 38.5°C were 11.6% and 12.9%, respectively (p 11,000/μl were 4.7% and 18.6%, respectively (p < 0.001), and the lengths of stay were 14 ± 1 and 19 ± 1 days, respectively (p < 0.001). In the setting of infection, chronic renal insufficiency and chronic steroid therapy are associated with suppression of fever and leukocytosis, respectively. Transplantation is an independent predictor of infection in patients presenting without fever or leukocytosis. Leukocytosis, but not fever, may be predictive of hospital mortality in infected surgical patients.
Comparison of Stress States and Paths: Vibratory Roller-Measured Soil Stiffness and Resilient Modulus Testing

Vibratory roller-based measurement of soil stiffness during intelligent compaction and continuous compaction control can be used for performance-based quality assurance of unbound materials. To realize this potential, the relationship between the roller-measured soil stiffness and the soil modulus, particularly resilient modulus, must be understood. The in situ stress states and paths experienced by soil beneath a vibratory roller were compared with stress states and paths during laboratory resilient modulus testing. Observed stress fields within the 1-m depth of influence varied considerably for both vertically homogeneous embankment soil and layered base over subgrade conditions. During low excitation force vibration, roller-induced levels of deviator stress were notably greater than those used during laboratory resilient modulus testing, whereas levels of mean stress were less. Predicted modulus variation with depth was strongly influenced by modulus function parameters. With typical granular soil parameters, modulus was found to be constant with depth for the embankment conditions. With modulus parameters of more fine-grained behavior, modulus increased considerably with depth.
TOYCOM - a tool for teaching elementary computer concepts

Many of those who teach introductory computing courses have recognized the pedagogic value of a very simple computer model. A large number of introductory textbooks on computing contain a section explaining the logical components of such a system (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7,8). These usually include an introduction to assembler language and machine level programming of a machine which is sometimes called the minimum configuration computer model.All of the previously implemented models of which we are aware have been constructed to operate in batch mode. After having used such systems for some time, we felt that they too soon introduced students to the aggravation of mispunched cards and long waits for runs, only to discover minor syntactic errors. We felt that the simple computer model's pedagogic value would be significantly increased by implementing it in the interactive mode. In order to test this thesis, we have designed and implemented such a system.Our interactive computer model is named TOYCOM, an obvious acronym for toy computer. TOYCOM is a submonitor-assembler-interpreter which can be collectively called a simulator. It presently runs as a submonitor under BASIC-PLUS, which runs under the RSTS-E operating system of the medium to large-scale DEC PDP-11 minicomputers. It is also written in BASIC-PLUS.
A master stability function for stochastically coupled chaotic maps

In this paper, we present a master stability function (MSF) for the synchronization of identical maps coupled by a class of stochastically switching weighted directed networks that encompasses Erdős-Renyi and numerosity-constrained models. Similarly to the classical MSF for static networks, the stochastic MSF allows for assessing synchronization in terms of spectral properties of the coupling network. Computation of the MSF involves the estimate of the Lyapunov exponents for an auxiliary dynamical system as a function of two independent parameters that are related to the spectral properties of the expectation and autocorrelation of the coupling matrix. We illustrate the results through simulations on chaotic Henon maps coupled through a numerosity-constrained network.
Does creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB) isoenzyme elevation following percutaneous coronary intervention with drug-eluting stents impact late clinical outcome?

Background: The incidence of postprocedural creatine kinase (CK)-MB elevation to >3× the upper limit of normal after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) has been reported at rates of up to 18% in the bare metal stent era and is correlated with higher adverse cardiovascular outcomes. This study examined the incidence and prognostic significance of CK-MB elevations after drug-eluting stent (DES) implantation. Methods: The records of 2,537 patients who underwent DES implantation and completed ≥6 months' follow-up were evaluated. Patients with acute myocardial infarction and those who presented in cardiogenic shock and had elevated cardiac enzymes at baseline were excluded from the analysis. Of these, 179 patients (7.1%) had ≥3× postprocedural CK-MB and 2,358 patients had <3× CK-MB elevation. The composite end point of target vessel revascularization-major adverse cardiac events (TVR-MACE) at 6 months was compared between groups. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses were performed to identify predictors of adverse cardiac outcomes. Results: The patients with CK-MB ≥3× elevation had a higher number of diseased vessels (2.15 ± 0.86 vs. 1.81 ± 0.87; P < 0.001), higher prevalence of type C lesions (29.9% vs. 17.7%; P < 0.001), received a higher average number of stents, and total stented length (1.72 ± 0.89 vs. 1.49 ± 0.83; P < 0.001 and 37.4 ± 23.0 mm vs. 30.8 ± 20.7 mm; P = 0.0003, respectively), and had lower rates of clinical success (91.9% vs. 99.2%; P < 0.001). The 6-month and 1-year TVR-MACE rates were higher for the elevated CK-MB group (11.9% vs. 7.0%; P = 0.02 and 16.1% vs. 26.6%, respectively; P = 0.005). The rates of subacute thrombosis were also significantly higher in the group with elevated CK-MB (0.4% vs. 3.2%, P < 0.001). Though significant CK-MB release was a predictor of TVR-MACE after univariate analysis, multivessel PCI, subacute stent thrombosis, total stented length, and history of prior PCI were the only predictors after multivariate regression analysis. Conclusions: Postprocedural CK-MB ≥3× elevation following PCI with DES continues to be a marker for the complexity of coronary disease and lack of clinical success; and correlates with higher rates of subacute thrombosis as well as late adverse events at 6-months and 1-year postprocedure. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Simultaneous Bilateral or Unilateral Carpal Tunnel Release? A Prospective Cohort Study of Early Outcomes and Limitations.

Background: Over 60% of patients with carpal tunnel syndrome present with symptoms and findings of nerve compression in both hands. Our goal was to compare patient-rated difficulties in performing activities of daily living in the early postoperative period between those undergoing bilateral carpal tunnel release and those undergoing unilateral carpal tunnel release. Methods: This prospective cohort study enrolled consecutive patients with bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome undergoing bilateral carpal tunnel release (n = 47) or unilateral carpal tunnel release (n = 41). Patient function and disease severity were measured by an abbreviated form of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire, QuickDASH, and the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire at baseline, at postoperative visit 1 at a mean time (and standard deviation) of 10 ± 3 days, and at postoperative visit 2 at a mean time (and standard deviation) of 30 ± 6 days. Patients rated their difficulty in completing fifteen activities of daily living each day for the first postoperative week. Patients reported the factors that influenced their choice of surgery. Results: There was no difference in baseline function or disease severity between the two groups with regard to QuickDASH and the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire. Patients in both groups improved after carpal tunnel release with no difference between groups either at postoperative visit 1 for QuickDASH (p = 0.97) and the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (p = 0.86) or at postoperative visit 2 for QuickDASH (p = 0.43) and the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (p = 0.34). Patients undergoing bilateral carpal tunnel release had more difficulty only during postoperative days 1 to 2 in opening jars (p = 0.03), cooking (p = 0.008), and doing household chores (p = 0.02). Patients in the two groups did not differ (p > 0.05) in their abilities to perform activities of daily living necessary for personal hygiene or independence on any day during the first seven days following surgery with regard to using the bathroom, bathing, dressing, or eating. Although the most common reason why patients chose bilateral carpal tunnel release was to avoid two surgical procedures (42%), the most common reason why patients chose unilateral carpal tunnel release was concern for self-care (36%). Conclusions: Patients with bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome can anticipate more severe functional impairment during the first few postoperative days with bilateral carpal tunnel release compared with unilateral carpal tunnel release, but limitations beyond postoperative day 2 or 3 are similar for bilateral and unilateral carpal tunnel release. Level of Evidence: Therapeutic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Cancellation of one-loop divergences in SO(8192) string theory

Abstract It is shown that the usual one-loop divergence is absent in SO(8192) open bosonic string theory in 26 dimensions, for which the dilaton tadpole is known to cancel. To obtain this result, it is necessary to perform an appropriate analytic continuation to eliminate the apparent divergence from the closed-string tachyon tadpole. Using this approach, the dilaton tadpole is calculated for general open bosonic string theories, with results in agreement (nearly) with those obtained by other methods.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN EFFICACY OF DEFIBRILLATION SHOCKS AND FREQUENCY CHARACTERISTICS OF SHOCK WAVEFORMS

Frequency Domain and Defibrillation. Introduction: Using the Fourier transform, it is possible to replace each time domain representation of a defibrillatory shock by a unique frequency domain representation in which the shock waveform is defined in terms of a complex number function of frequency and typically described as an amplitude in amperes per hertz (or, closely related, joules per hertz) and an associated frequency-dependent phase angle. Methods and Results: The present article describes the conceptual basis of the Fourier transform, sketches a simplified mathematical framework for deriving frequency domain parameters, considers properties crucial to interpreting defibrillatory-type shocks when expressed in the frequency domain, and then presents a series of shock waveforms in the frequency domain. Although not definitive, knowledge of the energy distribution with frequency alone, usually presented in joules per hertz, is shown to yield considerable insight into the probable comparable efficacy of uniphasic/biphasic rectangular, untruncated/truncated uniphasic exponential, and various biphasic “single capacitor” waveforms. Conclusion: In general, efficacy in achieving ventricular defibrillation is improved by parameter changes that shift a larger percentage of the delivered energy into a mid-frequency range (very roughly, 40 to 160 Hz). With further study, the frequency domain approach may prove to be a useful tool in the a priori selection of optimal defibrillatory shock waveforms.
The essential fatty acid requirement for azoxymethane-induced intestinal carcinogenesis in rats.

The essential fatty acid requirement for the development of intestinal carcinogenesis was determined and compared to the overall essential fatty acid status of the animals as measured by the triene/tetraene ratio in the plasma, liver and colon. To induce tumors, male Sprague-Dawley rats were given two weekly injections (20 mg/kg body wt) of azoxymethane. Two weeks after the last injection, the rats were divided into groups of 25 and given one of six diets containing various levels of essential fatty acids (as linoleate). The diets contained 5% total fat and were prepared by mixing safflower oil (high essential fatty acids, beef fat (low essential fatty acids), and medium chain triglyceride oil (no essential fatty acids). One group of rats was fed a 20% beef fat diet. The range of essential fatty acids was from <0.03% to 1.28% (w/w). Twenty-six weeks after the first azoxymethane injection, the animals were killed and intestinal tumor incidence and multiplicty were determined. Samples of plasma, liver and colon were also taken for measurement of the triene/tetraene ratio by gas chromatography.
Improved prognosis in congenital hypothyroidism treated before three months. Behavior concerns of parents of treated cretins

We explored the possibility that a critical period exists during the first few months of life, when treatment should be started in order to obtain a normal IQ. Previous publications have not fractionated the first 6 months of therapy for comparison of IQ results by a single test procedure. Thirty-one cretins were tested by Stanford Binet after age 3 years. A significantly higher percentage had IG > 85 when treated before 3 months (Chi-Square p 85 whose parents had no more worries than those of age matched normals. Parents had anxiety about punishment of these children who were characterized as “high strung, stubborn, contrary” and whose “feelings were easily hurt.” Concern was high regarding future education and jobs. Since clinical diagnosis of cretinism is difficult during the first 2 months of life, and since it is as common (1:8,000 live births) as phenylketonuria (1:10,000), a routine screening procedure is warranted. Systematic psychological counseling should be an integral part of therapy.
Disparities for Latino Children in the Timely Receipt of Medical Care

Objective.— It is not known whether Latino children, the largest minority population in the United States, experience disparities in the timeliness of their access to health care. We compared timeliness of care among Latino, white, and African American children. Methods.— Design: cross-sectional cohort from the 2000 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey. Patients: children with a usual source of care. Outcome measure: timeliness of care was assessed using parent reports of their child's 1) routine care, 2) illness care, 3) phone help, and 4) experiencing of a brief wait time. Analysis: multiple logistic regression was used to determine the adjusted odds of not always receiving timely medical care. Results.— Four-thousand one-hundred twenty children were included. Latino children were less likely to always ( P Conclusions.— Latino children experience marked disparities in obtaining timely medical care, only some of which is associated with language differences.
Photooxidation and reduction of cytochrome-552 and NADP photoreduction by Euglena chloroplasts.

Abstract The kinetics of photooxidation and photoreduction of Euglena cytochrome-552 by Euglena chloroplasts were compared with NADP photoreduction. During the steady state NADP Hill reaction, the ratio of oxidized to reduced cytochrome-552 remained constant and corresponded to about 90% reduction regardless of the redox state of the cytochrome-552 added initially. Illuminated chloroplasts reduced cytochrome-552 in the absence of added ferredoxin, and addition of ferredoxin was without effect on the rate of cytochrome-552 photoreduction. This photoreduction of cytochrome-552 was suppressed somewhat when an electron acceptor for photosystem 1 was provided and eliminated completely by atrazine or DCMU. In contrast, the atrazine-poisoned chloroplasts catalyzed the photooxidation of reduced cytochrome-552, and the rate of photooxidation depended on the nature of the electron acceptor added. NADP and ferredoxin served efficiently in this capacity, and the photooxidation of reduced cytochrome-552 and photoreduction of NADP proceeded concurrently and with the proper stoichiometry. When these activities were assayed in the presence of a variable concentration of reduced cytochrome-552, the rate of NADP photoreduction was always faster than the rate of photooxidation (or photoreduction) of cytochrome-552. These results were interpreted to mean that only a fraction of the cytochrome-552 added is re-incorporated at the reaction site in the chloroplasts, whereas the major portion of the cytochrome-552 added remained in solution. Support for this hypothesis was obtained from a study of the rapid kinetics of cytochrome-552 change using a rapid and sensitive spectrophotometer.
Prehospital cardiac arrest outcome is adversely associated with antiarrythmic agent use, but not associated with presenting complaint or medical history.

Study objective: This study associated survival from prehospital cardiac arrest to patient historical variables including presenting complaint, medications used, and medical history as a secondary end point in a trial evaluating the effect of bicarbonate administration. This raises issues concerning extensive prehospital historical assessment that may potentially delay care and transport. Methods: This prospective multicentre trial enrolled 874 prehospital cardiac arrest patients encountered by urban, suburban, and rural emergency medical services. This group underwent conventional ACLS intervention followed by empiric early administration of sodium bicarbonate (1mEq/l). Survival was measured as the presence of vital signs on emergency department arrival. Data analysis used Student’s t test, Fisher’s exact test, χ2 with Pearson correlation, and logistic regression (p Secondary end points were analysed including an association with common historical variables such as medical history, presenting complaint, or drugs used. Results: The overall survival rate was 13.9% (110 of 793) of prehospital arrest patients. There was no correlation between historical factors, such as chief complaint or history of present illness (p = 0.277), medical history (p = 0.425), presence of specific disease conditions (p = 0.1125–0.956), or overall drug use (p = 0.002–0.9848). However, there was an adverse association between specific antiarrhythmic use (p = 0.003) and outcome. Conclusion: There is little relation of patient historical factors on the outcome from prehospital cardiac arrest raising issues of efficiency with history taking in prehospital care and transport.
Modeling recreation demand in the presence of unobservable travel costs: toward a travel price model

An important issue in the application of travel cost models is the construction of a travel cost variable. This paper develops an econometric approach that views travel costs as an unobserved latent variable. The latent variable approach utilizes indicators to capture the role of individual travel costs in recreational demand models. The latent variables approach has at least two advantages over conventional approaches. One, the indicators can include both traditional components such as time and distance and non-traditional components such as the scenic beauty. Second, the estimation procedure results in each indicator being valued in dollar terms.
Localization of Functional Activity in the Central Nervous System by Measurement of Glucose Utilization with Radioactive Deoxyglucose

Sokoloff provided a review of his lab's deoxyglucose work so far: the theory and properties of the [14C] deoxyglucose and its derivative [18F] fluorodeoxyglucose methods, and their applications to many physiological, pharmacological, and pathological conditions.
Behavior of H-LaNi5 solid solutions

Abstract Partial molar quantities for the dissolution of hydrogen in stoichiometric annealed LaNi5.0 have been determined by the pressure-composition-temperature method. At infinite dilution Δ H H o = − 16.0 kJ (g atom H) -1 and Δ S H XS = −68.7 J K −1 (g atom H) -1 . Sieverts' law is obeyed when strain-free stoichiometric samples are used, and the preparation of such samples is discussed. Previously reported non-ideal behavior is ascribed to hydrogen trapping by defects present as a result of non-stoichiometry and/or lattice strain introduced by a prior activation step. Lattice expansion as a function of hydrogen concentration was linear and the partial molar volume of hydrogen VH was in the normal range, i.e. 1.7 cm3 (g atom H)−1.
Composition and morphology of InP{100} surfaces as a function of low energy Ar+ bombardment and annealing

Abstract The surface composition and morphology of the InP{001} surface have been studied by in situ Auger electron spectroscopy (AES) and ex situ atomic force microscopy (AFM) as a function of Ar + ion bombardment energy over the range 5 eV to 500 eV and annealing temperatures up to 600°C. Ion bombardment has been performed by means of a low energy, mass-selected, ultrahigh vacuum ion beam system. The surface contamination can be removed by Ar + ion bombardment with ≥ 30 eV ion energies for carbon and ≥ 60 eV ion energies for oxygen species. However, Indium-rich clusters and islanding are observed for Ar + ion energies above ∼ 40 eV. The results show that a combination of 30 eV Ar + ion bombardment and annealing to ∼ 300°C can produce an InP{100} surface which is devoid of observable impurities in AES and devoid of defect features in AFM.
Usefulness of WRKY gene-derived markers for assessing genetic population structure: An example with Florida coconut cultivars

We previously analyzed genetic diversity and population structure of eight cultivars within Florida coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) germplasm using 15 microsatellite (simple sequence repeat, SSR) markers. Here we report on the analysis of the same genotypes using 13 markers derived from WRKY sequences containing single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) and one microsatellite. WRKY transcription factors are unique to plants and are involved in numerous vital processes including disease resistance. Our objective was to determine the value of this type of gene to assess thegenetic diversity of this species. Overall, the WRKY results are similar to thosewith microsatellite markers. Despite the lower number of alleles identified with the WRKY-derived markers (37 versus 67 total alleles identified with the SSR markers), individuals of cultivars ‘Red Malayan Dwarf’, ‘Fiji Dwarf’ (‘Niu Leka’) and ‘Red Spicata’ were clearly clustered, as in the previous analysis. However, individuals of ‘Green Malayan Dwarf’ and ‘Yellow Malayan Dwarf’ cultivars were resolved with other varieties, perhaps due to selective forces operating on these functional genes. Most samples of the ‘Atlantic Tall’ and ‘Panama Tall’ cultivars clustered together as in the previous microsatellite study. We discuss the utility of WRKY-derived markers for assessing the genetic diversity of coconut, and their possible value in the study of other species. Published by Elsevier B.V.
Plasma characterization of Tetra III chrome etch system

Both Langmuir probe and spatial optical emission spectroscopy (OES) measurements have been used to characterize the Tetra TM chrome etch chamber. Langmuir data was measured over a range of process pressures between 1.5mT and 10mT and source powers between 150W and 500W. At 350W, the data show electron and ion densities near 1 x 10 9 cm -3 for Ar and for Cl 2 /O 2 etch plasmas. Ion density trends with pressure were observed to be opposite for the two plasmas. The effect of the third electrode designed in the chamber was demonstrated to reduce ion density by more than an order of magnitude for Ar plasma and still lower for Cl 2 /O 2 plasma. Electron temperature and plasma potential are also reduced. Radial OES measurements are reported with a new apparatus that yields direct spatial emission data. Spatial scans of infrared emission from atomic Cl were measured under a range of several chamber conditions already measured with the Langmuir probe. The scans showed that the emission uniformity above the mask can be adjusted to a flat profile by selection of the process condition.
Intermolecular Hydrogen Bonding and Dimeric Structures in Bilirubin Esters from 1H-NMR Spectroscopy

Abstract Analysis of the N-H 1H-NMR chemical shifts of various bilirubin dimethyl esters indicates intermolecularly H-bonded dimers in CDCl3 solution with pairwise pyrromethenone associations. The presence of an exo (C-2 or C-18) vinyl or ethyl group on the lactam ring leads to relatively weaker H-bonding as compared with an endo (C-3 or C-17) vinyl or ethyl group. Consequently, in a non-symmetric bilirubin, e.g. IXα, the endo-vinylpyrromethenone to endo-vinylpyrromethenone intermolecular H-bonding becomes much stronger (with more deshielded N-H proton chemical shifts) than in corresponding symmetric isomers, e.g. XIIIα or IIIα.
Phonetic processing areas revealed by sinewave speech and acoustically similar non-speech.

Abstract The neural substrates underlying speech perception are still not well understood. Previously, we found dissociation of speech and nonspeech processing at the earliest cortical level (AI), using speech and nonspeech complexity dimensions. Acoustic differences between speech and nonspeech stimuli in imaging studies, however, confound the search for linguistic–phonetic regions. Presently, we used sinewave speech (SWsp) and nonspeech (SWnon), which replace speech formants with sinewave tones, in order to match acoustic spectral and temporal complexity while contrasting phonetics. Chord progressions (CP) were used to remove the effects of auditory coherence and object processing. Twelve normal RH volunteers were scanned with fMRI while listening to SWsp, SWnon, CP, and a baseline condition arranged in blocks. Only two brain regions, in bilateral superior temporal sulcus, extending more posteriorly on the left, were found to prefer the SWsp condition after accounting for acoustic modulation and coherence effects. Two regions responded preferentially to the more frequency-modulated stimuli, including one that overlapped the right temporal phonetic area and another in the left angular gyrus far from the phonetic area. These findings are proposed to form the basis for the two subtypes of auditory word deafness. Several brain regions, including auditory and non-auditory areas, preferred the coherent auditory stimuli and are likely involved in auditory object recognition. The design of the current study allowed for separation of acoustic spectrotemporal, object recognition, and phonetic effects resulting in distinct and overlapping components.
Chemiluminescence response of equine alveolar macrophages during stimulation with latex beads, or IgG-opsonized sheep red blood cells.

Isolated equine alveolar macrophages were shown to generate a luminol-dependent light response when challenged with a phagocytic stimulus. The chemiluminescent response was not detected with luminol prepared at 1.0×10−5 or 1.0×10−4 molar concentrations, but was readily quantitated when used at a 1.0×10−3 molar concentration. Challenge of the alveolar macrophages with latex particles or with equine IgG-coated sheep red blood cells elicited the luminol-dependent light response, whereas unchallenged equine alveolar macrophages or those challenged with unopsonized erythrocytes failed to emit light above background levels. Latex-bead-challenged macrophages released 8.06 times the total amount of light as those equine alveolar macrophages challenged with equine IgG-opsonized erythrocytes. This study represents the first investigation on chemiluminescence and equine alveolar macrophages.
The Flavonoid, Eriodictyol, Induces Long-term Protection in ARPE-19 Cells through Its Effects on Nrf2 Activation and Phase 2 Gene Expression

Purpose Eriodictyol, a flavonoid found in citrus fruits, is among the most potent compounds reported to protect human RPE cells from oxidative stress-induced cell death. In the present study, we determined whether eriodictyol-induced phase II protein expression further enhances the resistance of human ARPE-19 cells to oxidative stress.
An investigation of polymorphism in MBBA by positron annihilation

The solid-state behavior of MBBA has been studied by the technique of positron lifetime measurements. The positron data support the exitence of at least two metastable forms of MBBA, one of which may be glassy.
Generation of instability waves in flows separating from smooth surfaces

This paper analyses the coupling between an imposed disturbance and an instability wave that propagates downstream on a shear layer which emanates from a separation point on a smooth surface. Since the wavelengths of the most-amplified instability waves will generally be small compared with the streamwise body dimensions, the analysis is restricted to this 'high-frequency' limit and the solution is obtained by using matched asymptotic expansions. An 'inner' solution, valid near the separation point, is matched onto an outer solution, which represents an instability wave on a slowly diverging mean flow. The analysis relates the amplitude of this instability to that of the imposed disturbance.
FORECASTING CORPORATE PERFORMANCE: VECM COMPARISON WITH OTHER TIME SERIES MODELS

This study uses the Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) to forecast ex post changes in earning and stock prices of six major DOW companies as well as of the S&P 500 market index. Compared to ARIMA and GARCH models, results from four decades of data are supportive of the forecasting ability of the VECM process.
Morphology of the antebrachial musculature of the American kestrel, Falco sparverius (Aves)

The antebrachial musculature of the American kestrel (Falco sparverius) is described. This fills a gap in the avian morphology literature, and provides a reference for future comparative, functional and systematic studies. A table of synonyms-homologs is provided for each muscle as a reference frame for over 100 years of avian anatomical literature.
Chromosomal patterns of diversity and differentiation in creepers: a next-gen phylogeographic investigation of Certhia americana.

With methods for sequencing thousands of loci for many individuals, phylogeographic studies have increased inferential power and the potential for applications to new questions. In songbirds, strong patterns of inter-chromosomal synteny, the published genome of a songbird and the ability to obtain thousands of genetic loci for many individuals permit the investigation of differentiation between and diversity within lineages across chromosomes. Here, we investigate patterns of differentiation and diversity in Certhia americana, a widespread North American songbird, using next-generation sequencing. Additionally, we reassess previous phylogeographic studies within the group. Based on ~30 million sequencing reads and more than 16 000 single-nucleotide polymorphisms in 41 individuals, we identified a strong positive relationship between genetic differentiation and chromosome size, with a negative relationship between genetic diversity and chromosome size. A combination of selection and drift may explain these patterns, although we found no evidence for selection. Because the observed genomic patterns are very similar between widespread, allopatric clades, it is unlikely that selective pressures would be so similar across such different ecological conditions. Alternatively, the accumulation of fixed differences between lineages and loss of genetic variation within lineages due to genetic drift alone may explain the observed patterns. Due to relatively higher recombination rates on smaller chromosomes, larger chromosomes would, on average, accumulate fixed differences between lineages and lose genetic variation within lineages faster, leading to the patterns observed here in C. americana.
Brain imaging using fast neutron spectroscopy

Most clinical methods of imaging the brain rely on imaging the anatomic and functional changes accompanying disease in brain tissue. This approach, although successful, has two limitations: first, the abnormality of interest must be large enough to be imaged using existing technologies, and second, confirmation of the abnormality usually requires a biopsy. To overcome limitations, we describe here a new method of brain imaging that uses fast neutrons to image the element distribution within the brain tissue and identify disease based on relative concentration gradients in different regions of the brain. The method, called Neutron Stimulated Emission Computed Tomography, has been successfully tested previously in imaging cancers in the breast, liver, kidneys and colon. Here we describe a study demonstrating the potential of the technology in detecting deep-seated brain tumors using a different signature compared to other imaging methods.
The Quantum Yield of NO3 from Peroxyacetyl Nitrate Photolysis

Peroxyacetyl nitrate (PAN) vapor was photolyzed at 248nm and the NO3 photoproduct was detected by laser induced fluorescence. The excited state flourescence contributions were investigated and a data analysis methodology was established to minimize their effects.