cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Estimation of the highly damped sinusoidal signals in additive noise

A method is proposed to improve the accuracy of the parameter estimates of highly damped sinusoidal signals in additive noise. The method first utilizes singular value decomposition (SVD) of the signal matrix to reduce the noise effect, then based on the noise-reduced signals the weighted sum of squared errors is minimized using an adaptive lattice filter algorithm to estimate the parameters in the backward linear prediction model. In the case of large damping factors, the experimental results show that the proposed method gives more accurate estimates than the eigenvector method. >
Separating the Effects of Hemodialysis Dose and Nutrition: In Search of the Optimal Dialysis Dose

The renal community owes Dr. Frank Gotch a great debt for the contributions that he has made to clarify the relationship between urea clearance and the dose of dialysis. With John Sargent he developed the mathematical approach to hemodialysis (1). In his seminal publication he re-analyzed data of the National Cooperative Dialysis Study to establish the association between the theoretically derived Kt/V for urea and clinical outcomes (2). Although diffusion equations are well understood and are used in many fields of science, Dr. Gotch’s persistent and tireless efforts to identify and quantitate the specific aspects of this process in dialysis through formal kinetic modeling, yielding additionally the protein catabolic rate (PCR) (3), have been extremely valuable to both patients and clinicians alike. The continuing measurement of Kt/ Vurea in every dialysis unit is a lasting tribute to Dr. Gotch’s contributions. Accurate measurement of the dose of dialysis is important in part because of its relationship to patient outcomes and to the cost of dialysis. Further, the concepts underlying the dose of episodic hemodialysis, pioneered by Dr. Gotch, are of practical importance in understanding the role of residual renal function and in quantitateing the dose of continuous dialytic procedures. Kt/V has been found to be one of the key modifiable components of the practice of hemodialysis.
Application of pyronin Y(G) in cytochemistry of nucleic acids.

Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells or isolated nuclei were stained with pyronin Y(PY) and analyzed by absorption or fluorescence microscopy, as well as by flow cytometry. Specificity of the staining reaction was assayed by testing sensitivity of the stainable material to RNase or DNase. The colored complexes detected by light absorption in fixed cells stained with PY are nonfluorescent and are most likely the products of condensation of single-stranded (ss) RNA by PY; the poly(rA) and poly(rA,rG) are the most sensitive to condensation. The products of PY interaction with double-stranded (ds) nucleic acids are fluorescent and can be detected in cells by cytofluorometry. PY used alone stains both DNA and RNA, and the staining capabilities of these nucleic acids vary depending upon the PY concentration at equilibrium; at a concentration above 330 microM, the RNA stainability decreases, perhaps due to its denaturation and condensation caused by the dye. In the presence of Hoechst 33342, PY can specifically stain RNA in fixed cells or isolated cell nuclei. Because only complexes of PY with ds RNA are fluorescent, this dye can be used as a probe of RNA conformation, e.g., to monitor denaturation of RNA in situ. The RNA stainability of mitotic cells is about 25% lower than that of cells in G2 phase, which indicates that during mitosis proportionately less cellular RNA is in the ds conformation. The advantages and limitations of the two cytochemical methods for DNA/RNA detection, one based on the use of Hoechst 33342 and PY, and another employing the metachromatic properties of acridine orange, are compared.
Finite difference solutions of reaction diffusion equations with continuous time delays

Abstract This paper is an extension of the monotone iterative methods for finite difference equations with discrete time delays to a class of nonlinear finite difference system with continuous time delays. The system under consideration is a finite difference approximation of a class of reaction diffusion equations with continuous time delays in the nonlinear reaction under either Dirichlet or Neumann-Robin boundary conditions. Various monotone iterative schemes, which depend on the property of the nonlinear reaction mechanism, are developed for the computation of numerical solutions. It is shown by the method of upper and lower solutions that the two sequences obtained from each iterative scheme converge monotonically from above and below, respectively, to a unique solution of the finite difference system. Applications are given to two model problems known as the diffusive logistic equation and the Fisher's diffusion equation in population genetics.
Soil- and surfactant-enhanced reductive dechlorination of carbon tetrachloride in the presence of Shewanella putrefaciens 200

Abstract Sorption of organic contaminants to soils has been shown to limit bioavailability and biodegradation in some systems. Use of surfactants has been proposed to reverse this effect. In this study, the effects of a high organic carbon content soil and a nonionic surfactant (Triton X-100) on the reductive dechlorination of carbon tetrachloride (CCl 4 ) were examined in anaerobic systems containing Shewanella putrefaciens . Although more than 70% of the added CCl 4 was sorbed to the soil phase in these systems, the reductive dechlorination of CCl 4 was not diminished. Rather, rates of CCl 4 dechlorination in systems containing soil were enhanced relative to systems containing non-sorptive sand slurries. This enhancement was also observed in sterile soil slurries to which a chemical reductant, dithiothreitol was added. It appears that the organic soil used in these experiments contains some catalytic factor capable of transforming CCl 4 in the presence of an appropriate chemical or microbial reductant. The addition of Triton X-100 to sand and soil slurries containing S. putrefaciens resulted in increased CCl 4 degradation in both systems. The effect of Triton could not be explained by: (i) surfactant induced changes in the distribution of CCl 4 , (i.e. decreased sorption) or the rate of CCl 4 desorption; (ii) a direct reaction between Triton and CCl 4 ; or (iii) increased cell numbers resulting from use of the surfactant as a substrate. Rather, it appears that Triton X-100 addition resulted in lysis of bacterial cells, a release of biochemical reductant, and enhanced reductive transformation of CCl 4 . These results provide insights to guide the development of more effective direct or indirect bioremediation strategies.
Determining average program execution times and their variance

This paper presents a general framework for determining average program execution times and their variance, based on the program's interval structure and control dependence graph. Average execution times and variance values are computed using frequency information from an optimized counter-based execution profile of the program.
Relationship of scores on the full-range picture vocabulary test and the Wechsler adult intelligence scale in a vocational rehabilitation setting.

-The relationship between IQ scores on the Full-Range Picture Vocabulary Test (FRPV) of Ammons and Ammons and the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) was investigated using a random sample of clients at a hospital-based vocational rehabilitation center. As predicted, correlations of FRPV and WAIS were significant, but decreased in magnitude for WAIS Vocabulary subtest, Verbal IQ, Full-scale IQ, and Performance IQ scores. These data extend previous research in applying the FRPV to different populations and suggest that it can be usefully applied as a quick screening measure of intelligence with a heterogeneous rehabilitation clientele.
Crystallographic analysis of Lac repressor bound to natural operator O1.

Abstract Previous structures of Lac repressor bound to DNA used a fully symmetric “ideal” operator sequence that is missing the central G·C base-pair present in the three natural operator sequences. Here we have determined the X-ray crystal structure of a dimeric Lac repressor bound to a 22 base-pair DNA with the natural operator O1 sequence and the anti-inducer ONPF, at 4.0 A resolution. The natural operator is bent in the same way as the symmetric sequence, due to the binding of the hinge helices of the repressor to the minor groove at the central GCGG sequence of O1 . Comparison of the structures of the repressor bound to the natural and symmetric operators shows very similar overall structures, with only slight rearrangements of the headpiece domains of the repressor. Analysis of crystals with iodinated DNA shows that the operator is uniquely positioned and allows for the sequence registration of the DNA relative to the repressor to be determined. The kink in the operator is centered between the left half-site and the central G·C base-pair of O1 . Our results are most consistent with a previously proposed model in which, relative to the complex with the symmetric operator, the repressor accommodates binding to the natural operator sequence by shifting the position of the right headpiece by one base-pair step towards the center of O1 .
Bilateral emphysematous pyelonephritis

In any diabetic patient being diagnosed or treated for pyelonephritis, it is important to exclude the diagnosis of emphysematous pyelonephritis, which carries a high mortality rate. The authors present an illustrative case of emphysematous pyelonephritis treated with antibiotics and emergency nephrectomy. The signs, symptoms, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of emphysematous pyelonephritis are discussed.
Governments must pay for clean-energy innovation

The current obsession with nuclear power is a red herring, says Marty Hoffert. The United States and others should instead invest in a clean-energy revolution.
Prospecting for Aptamers in the Human Genome

Aptamers are RNA molecules that bind small molecules. They were originally isolated from random libraries and then found in bacteria. In this issue of Chemistry & Biology , Vu et al. demonstrate that a motif for an adenosine aptamer occurs in human and bacterial genomes and binds AMP and ATP in vitro.
Treatment of Weight Regain Following Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: Revision of Pouch, Creation of New Gastrojejunostomy and Placement of Proximal Pericardial Patch Ring

In the literature, weight regain or failure of weight loss has been reported in up to 35 % of patients after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). Several revisional procedures have been suggested to reinitiate further weight loss in this group of patients, and placing a silastic ring around the pouch proximal to the gastrojejunostomy is one among those procedures. The aim of our study is to evaluate and compare the safety and efficacy of salvage banding using a pericardial patch after RYGB for further weight loss. Between December 2009 and April 2013, a total of 46 patients underwent revision with pericardial patch ring after RYGB for weight regain/failure of weight loss. A retrospective review of a prospectively collected database was performed, noting the outcomes and complications of the procedure. The mean body mass index at the time of revision was 40.1 ± 6.8 kg/m2. Mean percentage of excess weight loss was 23.4 ± 15.7 %, 39.0 ± 27.4 %, and 18.9 ± 20.5 % at 6, 12 and 24 months after revision, respectively. Eight (17.4 %) patients required a total of 11 readmissions due to nausea, vomiting, dysphagia and abdominal pain. Six (13.0 %) patients underwent a total of six reoperations, including four patients with laparoscopic removal of the pericardial patch and another revision of RYGB, and two patients with repair of perforated ulcers. Revision with pericardial patch ring after gastric bypass for weight regain or failure of weight loss may not be feasible, safe and effective.
Quality of life and disease understanding: impact of attending a patient‐centered cancer symposium

To evaluate the impact of a patient-centered symposium as an educational intervention on a broad population of cancer patients. We developed a comprehensive patient symposium. Through voluntary questionnaires, we studied the impact of this cancer symposium on quality of life, cancer-specific knowledge, and symptom management among cancer patients. Symposium attendees were provided surveys prior to and 3 months following the educational intervention. Surveys included (1) EORTC-QLQ-C30; (2) disease understanding tool developed for this conference; (3) validated disease-specific questionnaires. Changes over time were assessed using McNemar's tests and paired t-tests for categorical and continuous variables, respectively. A total of 158 attendees completed the pre-convention survey. Most respondents reported at least “quite a bit” of understanding regarding treatment options, screening modalities, symptomatology, and cancer-related side effects. Attendees endorsed the least understanding of disease-related stress, risk factors, fatigue management, and legal issues related to disease/treatment. At 3 months, there was improvement in understanding (12 of 14 areas of self-reported knowledge especially regarding nutrition, and stress/fatigue management). However, no significant change was seen in QLQ-C30 functioning, fatigue, pain, or insomnia. A patient symposium, as an educational intervention improves a solid knowledge base amongst attendees regarding their disease, increases knowledge in symptom management, but may be insufficient to impact QoL as a single intervention.
Competition, Institutional Linkages, and Organizational Growth

Abstract We examine the effects of competition and institutional linkages on the growth of day care centers (DCCs) in Metropolitan Toronto, Canada, between 1971 and 1989. Estimates obtained from a model of organizational growth show that density-dependent, mass-dependent, and size-localized forms of competition decreased DCC growth and that the possession of institutional linkages increased growth. The results also show that the growth advantage of institutional linkages increased with the intensity of competition. These findings extend the integration of ecological and institutional theories that has developed in research on population vital rates to the domain of organizational growth.
Diagnosing Person-Centered and Experiential Psychotherapy: An analysis of the PCE 2003 programming / Personzentrierte und Experienzielle Psychotherapie auf dem Prüfstand: Eine Analyse des PZE-Konferenzprogramms 2003 / Diagnosticando a la psicoterapia centrada en la persona y experiencial: un análisis de la programación de la conferencia PCE del 2003

The 2003 PCE conference program is examined as a distinct sample of the state of person-centered and experiential approaches today. This paper aims to identify eight predominant themes that encompa...
Dynamic Sensor Planning and Control for Optimally Tracking Targets

In this paper, we present an approach to the problem of actively controlling the configuration of a team of mobile agents equipped with cameras so as to optimize the quality of the estimates derived from their measurements. The issue of optimizing the robots' configuration is particularly important in the context of teams equipped with vision sensors, since most estimation schemes of interest will involve some form of triangulation.We provide a theoretical framework for tackling the sensor planning problem, and a practical computational strategy inspired by work on particle filtering for implementing the approach. We then extend our framework by showing how modeled system dynamics and configuration space obstacles can be handled. These ideas have been applied to a target tracking task, and demonstrated both in simulation and with actual robot platforms. The results indicate that the framework is able to solve fairly difficult sensor planning problems online without requiring excessive amounts of computati...
ACTIVATION OF VIRUS REPLICATION AFTER VACCINATION OF HIV-1-INFECTED INDIVIDUALS

Little is known about the factors that govern the level of HIV-1 replication in infected individuals. Recent studies (using potent antiviral drugs) of the kinetics of HIV-1 replication in vivo have demonstrated that steady-state levels of viremia are sustained by continuous rounds of de novo infection and the associated rapid turnover of CD4+ T lymphocytes. However, no information is available concerning the biologic variables that determine the size of the pool of T cells that are susceptible to virus infection or the amount of virus produced from infected cells. Furthermore, it is not known whether all CD4+ T lymphocytes are equally susceptible to HIV-1 infection at a given time or whether the infection is focused on cells of a particular state of activation or antigenic specificity. Although HIV-1 replication in culture is known to be greatly facilitated by T cell activation, the ability of specific antigenic stimulation to augment HIV-1 replication in vivo has not been studied. We sought to determine whether vaccination of HIV-1-infected adults leads to activation of virus replication and the targeting of vaccine antigen-responsive T cells for virus infection and destruction. Should T cell activation resulting from exposure to environmental antigens prove to be an important determinant of the steady-state levels of HIV-1 replication in vivo and lead to the preferential loss of specific populations of CD4+ T lymphocytes, it would have significant implications for our understanding of and therapeutic strategies for HIV-1 disease. To begin to address these issues, HIV-1-infected individuals and uninfected controls were studied by measurement of immune responses to influenza antigens and quantitation of virion-associated plasma HIV-1 RNA levels at baseline and at intervals after immunization with the trivalent influenza vaccine. Influenza vaccination resulted in readily demonstrable but transient increases in plasma HIV-1 RNA levels, indicative of activation of viral replication, in HIV-1-infected individuals with preserved ability to immunologically respond to vaccine antigens. Activation of HIV-1 replication by vaccination was more often seen and of greater magnitude in individuals who displayed a T cell proliferative response to vaccine antigens at baseline and in those who mounted a significant serologic response after vaccination. The fold increase in viremia, as well as the rates of increase of HIV-1 in plasma after vaccination and rates of viral decline after peak viremia, were higher in individuals with higher CD4+ T cell counts.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
The Pathway of Ventricular Depolarization in the Dog

Studies of ventricular depolarization with multichannel recording technics permit detailed three dimensional analysis of the process. Activity commences on the mid left septal surface, followed by activity on the right septum. Rapid endocardial excitation follows and leads to endoepicardial activation of the walls. The latest areas activated are in the basal septum. These findings are related to the genesis of the normal QRS. Theories of simultaneous activation and electrocardiographic silent areas are discussed.
VIRTUAL MODEL BASED ADAPTIVE DYNAMIC CONTROL OF A BIPED WALKING ROBOT

The robustness of bipedal walking robots can be enhanced by the use of adaptive control techniques. In this paper, we extend a previous control approach. "Virtual Model Control" (VMC) [6] to create "Adaptive Virtual Model Control" (AVMC). The adaptation compensates for external disturbances and unmodelled dynamics, enhancing robustness in the control of height, pitch, and forward speed. The state machine used to modulate the virtual model components and to select the appropriate virtual to physical transformations (as in traditional VMC) is also used to inform the adaptation about the robot's changing configuration. The design procedure for AVMC is described in this paper and simulation results are presented for a planar walking biped.
Identification of 19-nor-corticosterone in rat urine.

Abstract 19-Nor-corticosterone (19-nor-B) was isolated from a pool of urine collected from Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats. Identity was established by comparison of chromatographic mobilities with standard 19-nor-B both as the free compound and diacetate derivative. Comparison of the gas chromatographic-mass spectra of the urinary product and standard 19-nor-B as the diacetate following isolation by high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) confirmed the identity of the urinary product to be 19-nor-B. This demonstration that 19-nor-B is a naturally occuring product in addition to 19-nor-deoxycorticosterone supports the concept of the existence of a biosynthetic pathway for the formation of the 19-nor-corticosteroids.
A numerical study for the cessation of Couette flow of non-Newtonian fluids with a yield stress

Abstract We performed a numerical study for the cessation of Couette flow of non-Newtonian fluids with a yield stress. We solved this problem by employing our recently developed constitutive model for such fluids [H. Zhu, Y.D. Kim, D. De Kee, Non-Newtonian fluids with a yield stress, J. Non-Newton. Fluid Mech. 129 (2005) 177]. In the numerical simulation we adopted the finite volume method with an implicit scheme in time. We computed the finite stopping times for fluids with different yield stresses and shear thinning properties. Our numerical results show that the yield stress play a important role in determining the finite stopping times for non-Newtonian fluids with a yield stress; on the other hand, the shear thinning property does affect the finite stopping times in that the larger the degree of shear thinning, the longer the finite stopping time. The present study is an extension of the previous work by Chatzimina et al. [M. Chatzimina, G.C. Georgiou, I. Argyropaidas, E. Mitsoulis, R.R. Huilgol, Cessation of Couette and Poiseuille flows of a Bingham plastic and finite stopping times, J. Non-Newton. Fluid Mech. 129 (2005) 117], in which only Bingham fluids are considered.
Enhancing dissemination and implementation research using systems science methods.

Dissemination and implementation (D&I) research seeks to understand and overcome barriers to adoption of behavioral interventions that address complex problems, specifically interventions that arise from multiple interacting influences crossing socio-ecological levels. It is often difficult for research to accurately represent and address the complexities of the real world, and traditional methodological approaches are generally inadequate for this task. Systems science methods, expressly designed to study complex systems, can be effectively employed for an improved understanding about dissemination and implementation of evidence-based interventions. The aims of this study were to understand the complex factors influencing successful D&I of programs in community settings and to identify D&I challenges imposed by system complexity. Case examples of three systems science methods—system dynamics modeling, agent-based modeling, and network analysis—are used to illustrate how each method can be used to address D&I challenges. The case studies feature relevant behavioral topical areas: chronic disease prevention, community violence prevention, and educational intervention. To emphasize consistency with D&I priorities, the discussion of the value of each method is framed around the elements of the established Reach Effectiveness Adoption Implementation Maintenance (RE-AIM) framework. Systems science methods can help researchers, public health decision makers, and program implementers to understand the complex factors influencing successful D&I of programs in community settings and to identify D&I challenges imposed by system complexity.
Direct Visualization of Asymmetric Adenine Nucleotide-Induced Conformational Changes in MutLα

Summary MutL α , the heterodimeric eukaryotic MutL homolog, is required for DNA mismatch repair (MMR) in vivo. It has been suggested that conformational changes, modulated by adenine nucleotides, mediate the interactions of MutL α with other proteins in the MMR pathway, coordinating the recognition of DNA mismatches by MutS α and the activation of MutL α with the downstream events that lead to repair. Thus far, the only evidence for these conformational changes has come from X-ray crystallography of isolated domains, indirect biochemical analyses, and comparison to other members of the GHL ATPase family to which MutL α belongs. Using atomic force microscopy (AFM), coupled with biochemical techniques, we demonstrate that adenine nucleotides induce large asymmetric conformational changes in full-length yeast and human MutL α and that these changes are associated with significant increases in secondary structure. These data reveal an ATPase cycle in which sequential nucleotide binding, hydrolysis, and release modulate the conformational states of MutL α .
Analysis of vocal-fold vibrations from high-speed laryngeal images using a Hilbert transform-based methodology.

Summary This paper presents a Hilbert transform-based approach to analyze vocal fold vibrations in human subjects exhibiting normal and abnormal voice productions. This new approach is applied to the analysis of glottal area waveform (GAW) and is capable of providing useful information on the vocal fold vibration. The GAW is extracted from high-speed laryngeal images by delineating the glottal edge for each image frame. An analytic signal is generated through the Hilbert transform of the GAW, which yields a recognizable pattern of the vocal fold vibration in the analytic phase plane. The vibratory pattern is comprehensive and can be correlated with specific voice conditions. Quantitative measures of the glottal perturbation are introduced using the analytic amplitude and instantaneous frequency obtained from the analysis. Examples of clinical voice recordings are used to evaluate and test the effectiveness of this approach in providing qualitative representation and quantitative characteristics of vocal fold vibratory behavior. The results demonstrate the potential of using this new analytical tool incorporated with the high-speed laryngeal imaging modality for clinical voice assessment.
When Disaster Strikes1

Warning responses are described on the basis of interviews with 278 randomly selected families who were evacuated from their homes prior to a flood in Denver, Colorado, on June 16, 1965. Response patterns are analyzed in detail for families who were geographically separated at the time initial warnings were received. Numerous implications for community disaster planning are explicated.
The fatty acids of antarctic phytoplankton and euphausiids. Fatty acid exchange among trophic levels of the Ross Sea

The fatty acids of 3 samples of Euphausia superba, 7 samples of E. crystallorophias, and 12 samples of phytoplankton collected in the Ross Sea, Antarctica, during Eltanin Cruise 51 were examined. The fatty acid profiles of the samples of E. superba resembled each other closely. The fatty acid profiles of the E. crystallorophias samples were also similar to each other but different quantitatively from those of E. superba. Phytoplankton fatty acid patterns varied with the geographical location and species composition of the samples. The fatty acids of euphausiids were compared to those of the phytoplankton from the corresponding locations. Rather similar fatty acid patterns in phytoplankton and E. superba corroborate the herbivorous nature of this euphausiid. On the other hand, phytoplankton and E. crystallorophias showed quite different fatty acid patterns. The differences were mostly due to the presence of waxes among the lipids of E. crystallorophias. It is not clear whether these waxes are of dietary origin or are synthesized endogenously.
Dogmatisms and Catechisms — Ethics and Companion Animals

(2001). Dogmatisms and Catechisms — Ethics and Companion Animals. Anthrozoos: Vol. 14, No. 1, pp. 4-11.
Covered stent exclusion of blunt traumatic carotid artery pseudoaneurysm: case report and review of the literature.

Injury to the carotid artery from blunt trauma, when not lethal, will often go unrecognized. A 37-year-old male was the belted driver in a motor vehicle accident 15 years prior to presenting with intermittent left upper extremity parasthesias and weakness. A large, calcified distal right internal carotid artery (ICA) pseudoaneurysm was diagnosed and successfully excluded with a 7 × 30 mm covered stent.
Interpretation of sulfur and oxygen isotopes in biological and abiological sulfide oxidation

Sulfur and oxygen isotope ratios in sulfate cannot distinguish unambiguously between biological and abiological mechanisms of sulfide oxidation because similar isotope signatures have been observed or predicted for different mechanisms. However, field and laboratory data on sulfur and oxygen isotopes have demonstrated the importance of understanding environmental factors to limit the set of reasonable mechanisms. In this paper, we review sulfur and oxygen isotope compositions reported in both field and laboratory studies of sulfide oxidation. We develop a new classification scheme for sulfide oxidation based on whether the electron transfer involves incorporation of oxygen from H2O or O2 in the sulfate. Four mechanisms for H2O-oxygen incorporation and two for O2-oxygen incorporation are presented. We also point out several environmental factors such as the production of intermediate sulfoxyanions or the presence of certain Thiobacillus species that may determine whether sulfur is fractionated during oxidation. More information on environmental factors is needed.
Predictors of medication adherence in patients with rheumatoid arthritis

Medication adherence is a significant problem in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a prevalent autoimmune disease. Due to the equivocal results reported in the research, consistent predictors of medication adherence in patients with RA are undetermined. A cross-sectional descriptive, predictive study of 108 patients with RA was used to: 1) describe self-reported medication adherence to disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs); 2) compare demographic (age, residence, marital status, employment status, years of education, and ethnicity) and clinical (duration of disease and number of medications) factors of adherent and non-adherent individuals; and 3) determine the predictive power of demographic and clinical factors for DMARD adherence using various cut-points (research-based, mean, and median) on a validated, self-report scale measuring medication adherence. Independent samples t-tests, Chi square analyses, and logistic regression modeling were used to analyze these data. Approximately 90% of the individuals with RA reported adherence with their prescribed DMARD prescriptions. The only demographic and clinical difference between the adherent and non-adherent group was ethnicity (p=0.04); nonwhite individuals reported significantly less adherence with their prescribed DMARDs when compared to white individuals. Logistic regression models identified ethnicity (OR= 3.34-10.1; p< 0.05) and the number of medications taken (OR=1.7; p< 0.05) as predictors of medication non-adherence. These data provide evidence that ethnicity and taking an increased number of prescribed medications are independent predictors of medication adherence in patients with RA. These findings confirm the presence of a health disparity and an area where further research is needed to optimize patient outcomes.
Biogeochemical changes during early development of restored calcareous wetland soils

Abstract Preservation and restoration of wetlands is critical to maintain their key functional roles of improving water quality, carbon sequestration, and mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions. Restoration of former agricultural wetlands often requires severe measures including removal nutrient-enriched soil followed by natural succession involving changes in nutrient storages and transformations. The focus of this study was to assess changes in biogeochemical parameters during the early stages of soil development following complete soil removal in a calcareous subtropical wetland. Results indicated that significant changes occur in the first 16 years including increased soil depth, accumulation of organic matter, carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P). Early development of soils showed a shift from initial N limitation towards a state of co-limitation by N and P after 16 years. Functional responses of these changes were determined by monitoring the microbe-driven processes (enzyme activities and soil oxygen demand) with respect to the nutrient changes. Soil β-glucosidase activity increased in the first few years and then declined with age of the soils. Alkaline phosphatase activity was inversely correlated to the P concentration in soils. When compared with an undisturbed reference site, these parameters indicate that N processes recover more rapidly than those of P and C, but functional attributes related to P limitation should begin to mimic restored conditions within the next century.
An empirical analysis of sponsored search performance in search engine advertising

The phenomenon of sponsored search advertising - where advertisers pay a fee to Internet search engines to be displayed alongside organic (non-sponsored) web search results - is gaining ground as the largest source of revenues for search engines. Despite the growth of search advertising, we have little understanding of how consumers respond to contextual and sponsored search advertising on the Internet. Using a unique panel dataset of several hundred keywords collected from a large nationwide retailer that advertises on Google, we empirically model the relationship between different metrics such as click-through rates, conversion rates, bid prices and keyword ranks. Our paper proposes a novel framework and data to better understand what drives these differences. We use a Hierarchical Bayesian modeling framework and estimate the model using Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) methods. We empirically estimate the impact of keyword attributes on consumer search and purchase behavior as well as on firms' decision-making behavior on bid prices and ranks. We find that the presence of retailer-specific information in the keyword increases click-through rates, and the presence of brand-specific information in the keyword increases conversion rates. We also demonstrate that as suggested by anecdotal evidence, search engines like Google factor in both the auction bid price as well as prior click-through rates before allotting a final rank to an advertisement. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study that uses real world data from an advertiser and jointly estimates the effect of sponsored search advertising at a keyword level on consumer search, click and purchase behavior in electronic markets
Color discrimination by a bering sea spotted seal, Phoca largha

Abstract A female spotted seal was trained to discriminate between blue and orange lighted targets. Brightness cues were decoupled from color cues and background light intensity was such that the animal's rods were probably saturated. The performance of the animal indicated that it could reliably distinguish colors. This provides the first evidence implying more than one cone type in the eye of a marine mammal.
The carbohydrate-protein linkage region of chondroitin 6-sulfate.

The structure of the chondroitin 6-sulfate-protein linkage region has been investigated. Chondroitin 6-sulfate was prepared from umbilical cord by digestion with papain followed by fractionation with cetylpyridinium chloride and ethanol. Four oligosaccharides derived from the linkage region were isolated after acid hydrolysis of the polysaccharide and characterized as: (1) 3-O-β-D-glucuronosyl-D-galactose; (2) 3-O-β-D-galactosyl-D-galactose; (3) 4-O-β-D-galactosyl-D-xylose; and (4) 3-O-β-D-galactosyl-4-O-β-D-galactosyl-D-xylose. It is concluded that the carbohydrate sequence in the chondroitin 6-sulfate-protein linkage is identical to that previously found for chondroitin 4-sulfate and heparin.
What Role Does Measuring Medication Compliance Play in Evaluating the Efficacy of Naltrexone

Background: Compliance with medication in pharmacotherapy trials of alcoholism has been shown to be equal to, or more, important than in other areas of medicine. Research has suggested that naltrexone's effectiveness can be greatly influenced by the compliance of participants in clinical trials. Presently, we compare 2 compliance measurement methods [urine riboflavin and medication event monitoring system (MEMS)] used simultaneously to evaluate naltrexone's efficacy and the impact of compliance on the size of observable treatment effects. Methods: One hundred and thirty-seven of 160 randomized alcoholic patients completed 12-weeks (84 days) of naltrexone or placebo and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or motivational enhancement therapy (MET). Urine riboflavin was determined during study weeks 2, 6, and 12. The MEMS provided a detailed computerized record of when a participant opened their medication bottle throughout the trial. Baseline predictors of MEMS (80% openings) and urine riboflavin (≥1,500 ng/mL by fluorimetry) compliance were examined. The effects of the treatments in the compliant participants defined by one, the other, or both methods were compared and contrasted with a previously reported intent-to-treat analysis where compliance was not taken into account. Results: Age was predictive of compliance. 105 participants were deemed compliant via urine riboflavin criteria, 87 via MEMS, and 77 when both criteria were met, with no significant differences between treatment groups. The most compliant participants showed a significant medication by therapy interaction. Those treated with naltrexone/CBT showed more abstinence days (p<0.03), less heavy drinking days (p<0.03) and less total drinks (p<0.03) than the other groups. The effect size of this interaction increased from about 0.2 in the intent-to-treat analysis, to about 0.4 to 0.5 in the compliant group analyses, with little difference between compliance measurement methods. Conclusions: Compliance measurement does appear to influence the evaluation of the efficacy of naltrexone within the context of CBT. Treatment effect sizes approximately doubled in the most compliant individuals. Measuring compliance by either of 2 distinct methods provides approximately similar results. As compliance with naltrexone within the context of CBT has such a large impact of treatment outcome, methods of enhancing compliance during treatment should be given the utmost attention.
Translational repression in eukaryotes: partial purification and characterization of a repressor of ferritin mRNA translation.

Abstract Mouse and rabbit ferritin mRNAs translate very poorly in rabbit reticulocyte lysates relative to most other mRNAs. This translational deficiency is not seen in wheat germ lysates, suggesting the presence of an inhibitor in reticulocyte lysate that is specific for ferritin mRNA. A specific repressor of ferritin mRNA translation has been partially purified from rabbit reticulocytes by differential ultracentrifugation, ammonium sulfate fractionation, and chromatography on phosphocellulose, DEAE-cellulose, and Sephacryl S-300. The elution profile from the latter suggests an aggregate molecular mass of approximately 180 kDa for the repressor. The inhibitory activity of this repressor against native ferritin mRNA can be relieved by adding in vitro transcripts of ferritin light-chain RNAs that contain the first 92 nucleotides of the 5' untranslated region. No other sequences appear to be necessary for this effect.
Mitigating the confounding effects of program dependences for effective fault localization

Dynamic program dependences are recognized as important factors in software debugging because they contribute to triggering the effects of faults and propagating the effects to a program's output. The effects of dynamic dependences also produce significant confounding bias when statistically estimating the causal effect of a statement on the occurrence of program failures, which leads to poor fault localization results. This paper presents a novel causal-inference technique for fault localization that accounts for the effects of dynamic data and control dependences and thus, significantly reduces confounding bias during fault localization. The technique employs a new dependence-based causal model together with matching of test executions based on their dynamic dependences. The paper also presents empirical results indicating that the new technique performs significantly better than existing statistical fault-localization techniques as well as our previous fault localization technique based on causal-inference methodology.
Atmospheric compensation for surface temperature and emissivity separation

A new method for atmospheric compensation of longwave infrared (LWIR) hyperspectral images is presented. The technique exploits the large amount of data in hyperspectral images to obtain the most information about atmospheric and surface parameters of interest. This is done with Canonical Correlation Analysis (CCA) by casting the problem onto a multivariate framework. The procedure accounts for the joint effects of surface and atmospheric radiation, thus addressing the complex interaction between the Earth’s surface properties, thermodynamic state, and the atmosphere. After atmospheric compensation, the calculated surface radiance is used to estimate temperature and emissivity. The technique was tested with radiative transfer model simulations and airborne multispectral data. Results obtained from MODTRAN simulations and the MODerate resolution Imaging Spectrometer (MODIS) and Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER) (MASTER) airborne sensor show that it is feasible to retrieve land surface temperature and emissivity with 1°K and 0.01 accuracies, respectively.
Fente labiomandibulaire et sternale. À propos d'un cas et revue de la littérature

The Authors report a case of cleft interesting the lower lip and mandible with a sternal cleft. This association is exceptional, it was described in three world cases to this day. At this occasion, a review of the literature is realized, in particular concerning the associated malformatives anomalies and the therapeutic behaviour. It seems to us indispensable to realize an early reconstruction, specially bone correction, and to collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to obtain a good result and a better social incorporation of the child.
Extragalactic sources with strong millimeter-wave emission

Observations at 90 GHz of a sample of 38 sources chosen to have flat or rising spectra between 0.318 and 5 GHz are reported. Roughly 25% of the sources were found to have flat or rising spectra between 5 and 90 GHz. The optical magnitude of each of the sources from the E print of the Palomar Sky Survey has also been estimated. Evidence is found for a correlation between the 90-GHz flux density and the optical magnitude, suggesting a relationship between the emission processes at these frequencies. Little evidence is found for a correlation between the low- and high-frequency spectral indices of the sources. This suggests that the sources tend to be opaque at centimeter wavelengths and optically thin at millimeter wavelengths. The properties of two of the more interesting sources are also discussed. Evidence is presented that strong millimeter activity may be generally associated with the BL Lac phenomenon.
Dynamics of intensity dependent refractive index using T-Scan

Azo-dye-doped polymers have a large intensity dependent refractive index with at least two mechanisms that are characterized by their response times and by the sign of amplitudes. τ 1 is in a range of 700 ms to 900 ms and τ 2 in a range of 50 s to 60 s . To charcterize the dynamics of the real and imaginary part of this response, we use a T-scan technique(using open and closed apertures), where the intesity dependent focusing/defocusing processes of the material is studied as a function of time.
Child temperament effects on special education : process and outcomes

Abstract One of the concepts that guides much of special education is that the individual differences of each child must be taken into account in planning for, and carrying out, educational programs. To date, investigators have given the most attention to the individual difference variables of cognitive ability and achievement. It is my purpose in this article to introduce the reader to a set of child characteristics in the social, emotional, and attentional domains, collectively referred to as temperament characteristics, that have received significant and growing research attention over the past 20 years. I review the modest quantity of work relating temperament to educational process and outcome for exceptional children. Further, I summarize research aimed at the description of the temperamental characteristics of exceptional children with different diagnoses. I conclude with a model of temperament effects on educational outcome, mediated by effects on parents, peers, and teachers, with the child's aca...
Being Left in Brooklyn at the Start of the `Post-Industrial' City: Tensions in Political Economy, Race, and Gender in Community Organizing, 1955—1980

This paper is an analytical history of a New York City community organization during a period of economic, racial and ideological turmoil. The organization was committed to integration, provided a wide range of services, and organized residents to address community problems. I examine the role of women in the organization, the organization's opposition to Black Nationalism and its effort to analyze and organize against the austerity resolution to the NYC fiscal crisis. I suggest that a modified model of the organization's political economic perspective and interculturalism may be considered as a possible framework for a broad-based social movement for change.
Protein–protein interactions on weak-cation-exchange sorbent surfaces during chromatographic separations

This paper examines the nature of chromatographic separations on a weak cation-exchange material in which immobilized protein coats 24% or less of the sorbent surface. It was found that columns on which proteins were immobilized still behaved as a cation-exchange chromatography sorbents, but their selectivity was different from the parent weak cation-exchange column. This was interpreted to mean that in addition to the normal electrostatic interactions expected in ion- exchange chromatography, protein analytes interact with immobilized protein on the sorbent surface. Anionic proteins were not adsorbed, indicating that immobilized proteins were acting synergistically with ionic stationary phase groups to enhance retention. It is concluded that these protein-protein interactions occur after proteins are captured by the primary interaction mechanism of the column, in this case, electrostatic interaction. Protein-protein interaction is a secondary, lateral process. These lateral interactions were observed between 4% and 24% surface saturation. The significance of this observation is that in preparative chromatography and the case of "fouled" columns, strongly adsorbed proteins could alter the elution characteristics of sample proteins being target for analysis or purification.
Characterization of the μ-(η1-C: η2-S,S′) dithiocarboxylate complexes Cp(CO)2Fe–CS2–Zr(X)Cp2 (X=Cl, OCMe3); CS2 insertion into the FeZr bond of the heterobimetallic complex Cp(CO)2Fe–Zr(OCMe3)Cp2

Abstract Treatment of the carbon disulfide adducts FpCS 2 K and Fp′CS 2 K [Fp′=( η 5 -C 5 H 4 CH 3 )Fe(CO) 2 ] with Cp 2 ZrCl 2 affords the μ -( η 1 -C: η 2 -S,S′) dithiocarboxylate complexes FpCS 2 ZrClCp 2 ( 1 ) and Fp′CS 2 ZrClCp 2 ( 2 ). Both stable products were fully characterized. Metathesis between FpCS 2 K and Cp 2 ZrCl(OCMe 3 ) provided FpCS 2 Zr(OCMe 3 )Cp 2 ( 3 ), which was not obtained analytically pure. This product was characterized by comparison of its IR and 1 H-, 13 C{ 1 H}-NMR spectral data with that for 1 and 2 . The iron–zirconium complex FpZr(OCMe 3 )Cp 2 ( 4 ) was transformed by one equivalent of CS 2 to 3 (75% spectroscopic yield), a reaction that did not occur for FpZrClCp 2 . An insertion pathway is discussed for incorporating the CS 2 into the Fe–Zr bond of FpZr(OCMe 3 )Cp 2 .