cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Relationship of daily total somatic cell output with somatic cell concentration and clinical mastitis

Abstract Somatic cell count (SCC) measures the concentration of somatic cells in milk and is used as a mastitis diagnostic tool. It is plausible that variation in milk yield could alter the relationship between SCC and mastitis status. Our objective was to evaluate total daily SCC output as a predictor of clinical mastitis. Data included 37,035 test-day records from 4,179 lactations of 1,679 cows and 1,286 mastitis events from an experimental herd. Daily total SCC was derived by multiplying SCC by daily milk yield in milliliters and transformed to daily total somatic cell score (DTSCS) via a log2 transformation. Milk yield, SCS, and DTSCS were evaluated with mixed models that included the proximity of a mastitis event to the test date and days in milk as the main fixed effects. A second series of logistic regression was conducted that considered mastitis (1 = mastitis occurred during a test interval; 0 = no mastitis) as the dependent variable with milk yield, SCS, and DTSCS the main independent effects. Least squares means for test dates associated with mastitis-free lactations were 2.43 and 2.25 for SCS and DTSCS, respectively. The corresponding values were 5.96 for SCS and 5.66 for DTSCS for the week of a mastitis event. Whereas SCS declined rapidly in early lactation and then increased steadily thereafter, DTSCS was lowest in early lactation and increased by a proportionally smaller amount throughout lactation. Including both SCS and DTSCS in the same model improved the logistic regression model fit over a model with SCS only. Dilution effects from milk yield influence SCS, and consideration of DTSCS in management and genetic selection schemes could improve mastitis detection and resistance.
Cognitive correlates of autism spectrum disorder symptoms.

Due to the diverse behavioral presentation of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), identifying ASD subtypes using patterns of cognitive abilities has become an important point of research. Some previous studies on cognitive profiles in ASD suggest that the discrepancy between verbal intelligence quotient (VIQ) and performance IQ (PIQ) is associated with ASD symptoms, while others have pointed to VIQ as the critical predictor. Given that VIQ is a component of the VIQ-PIQ discrepancy, it was unclear which was most driving these associations. This study tested whether VIQ, PIQ, or the VIQ-PIQ discrepancy was most associated with ASD symptoms in children and adults with ASD (N = 527). Using data from the Autism Brain Imaging Data Exchange (ABIDE), we tested the independent contribution of each IQ index and their discrepancy to ASD symptom severity using multiple linear regressions predicting ASD symptoms. VIQ was most associated with lower symptom severity as measured by the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) total score, and when VIQ was included in models predicting ASD symptoms, associations with PIQ and IQ discrepancy were not significant. An association between VIQ and ASD communication symptoms drove the association with ASD symptom severity. These results suggest that associations between ASD communication symptoms and IQ discrepancy or PIQ reported in prior studies likely resulted from variance shared with VIQ. Subtyping ASD on the basis of VIQ should be a point of future research, as it may allow for the development of more personalized approaches to intervention. LAY SUMMARY: Previous research on links between autism severity and verbal and nonverbal intelligence has produced mixed results. Our study examined whether verbal intelligence, nonverbal intelligence, or the discrepancy between the two was most related to autism symptoms. We found that higher verbal intelligence was most associated with less severe autism communication symptoms. Given the relevance of verbal intelligence in predicting autism symptom severity, subtyping autism on the basis of verbal intelligence could lead to more personalized treatments.
Effects of Home-Based Exercise on Frailty in Patients With End-Stage Renal Disease: Systematic Review.

Background:New or worsening frailty is a common problem in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) during the prolonged time awaiting kidney transplantation. Structured physical activity in th...
Association of stress and resilience with cardiometabolic health among American Indian and Alaska Native adults

Evidence suggests that perceived stress and psychological resilience are related to the presence and severity of cardiometabolic disease. Despite increased stress and cardiometabolic disease burden among American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) people, the relationships between these factors are not well established in these populations. The objective of this study was to evaluate the relationships of stress with five cardiometabolic health indicators and to assess whether psychological resilience mediates these relationships in AI/AN adults. Four hundred and ninety-six AI/AN attendees were surveyed at three powwows. The questionnaire included sociodemographic items, questions on self-reported obesity, prediabetes, diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol, the Perceived Stress Scale, and the Brief Resilience Scale. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to measure associations of health indicators with Perceived Stress Scale and Brief Resilience Scale scores while controlling for sociodemographic characteristics. Among respondents, obesity was the most common cardiometabolic health indicator reported (48%), followed by high blood pressure, prediabetes, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Mean Perceived Stress Scale and Brief Resilience Scale scores were 16.1 (6.4 SD) and 3.5 (0.7 SD), respectively. Higher Perceived Stress Scale scores were associated with greater odds of self-reported prediabetes and diabetes. Brief Resilience Scale scores did not serve as a mediator. These results suggest that perceived stress is associated with some self-reported indicators of cardiometabolic health among AI/AN adults, but findings are limited by the convenience sample, reliance on self-report, and cross-sectional design. Future work should capitalize on nationally representative data, longitudinal designs, and objective measures of cardiometabolic health.
Effect of Anaerobiosis on Staphylococcal Nuclease Production

Five strains of Staphylococcus aureus were examined quantitatively for the production of nuclease under aerobic and anaerobic conditions. Hydrolysis of deoxyribonucleic acid and ribonucleic acid was detected by measuring the release of acidsoluble nucleotides spectrophotometrically. We found that the enzyme was produced anaerobically, as well as aerobically, and that anaerobiosis had no effect on production of this enzyme when other conditions, such as pH, were held constant.
Determining the significance of electrodynamic coupling between superthermal electrons and thermal plasma

The necessity of electrodynamic coupling in addition to collisional coupling between superthermal electrons (SEs) and thermal plasma is discussed. Collisional coupling typically involves Coulomb collision terms in the SE kinetic equation and heating rate terms in the thermal plasma energy equations. Electrodynamic coupling encompasses the inclusion of superthermal electron terms in the quasineutrality condition, flux balance equation, and electric field formulation, as well as the inclusion of the self-consistent electric field in the SE kinetic equation. The case of plasmaspheric refilling is investigated, and two methods of quantitatively determining when electrodynamic effects are important and should be included in the calculation are presented. Using the methods determined from the previous case, results from a polar wind numerical calculation are investigated and it is determined that even a very small amount of photoelectrons are significant in the polar cap.
Efficient response time bound analysis of real-time rule-based systems

It is required not only to verify the logical correctness of a real-time expert system but also to determine whether the computation time required to compute a logically correct decision in each monitor-decide cycle is within the imposed timing constraint. A principal concept in the analysis methodology is that of a special form of rules. A set of rules satisfying all behavioral constraint assertions of a special form is guaranteed to have bounded response time. The authors present efficient algorithms for computing tight response time bounds for rule sets with bounded response time. These algorithms use techniques which do not involve checking the state-space graph corresponding to the rule sets. >
The testing of operating characteristics of cluster air weapons

In the paper, a general model for investigations of dynamical properties of cluster air weapons is presented. Flight tests were carried out in a research-development cycle. Results of simulation studies, preliminary tests in aerodynamical tunnel and in flight examination are presented. The mathematical model was verified through experimental flight tests.
Blinatumomab: enlisting serial killer T-cells in the war against hematologic malignancies

Introduction: The approval of blinatumomab signals the long awaited arrival of immunotherapy for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Previous options for relapsed or refractory disease were restricted to cytotoxic chemotherapy with limited efficacy and significant toxicity. Through an innovative mechanism of action, blinatumomab stimulates a polyclonal antitumor T-cell response, yielding unprecedented single agent efficacy in the relapsed/refractory setting. Success comes at the cost of immunological toxicities rarely encountered with previous therapies and challenging administration logistics requiring clinical expertise.Areas covered: All published clinical and preclinical studies using blinatumomab were reviewed in addition to all registered ongoing clinical trials and data published in abstract form. The search was limited to the English language. The pharmacology, clinical efficacy, toxicity profile, and logistical considerations for drug administration are discussed.Expert opinion: Blinatumomab is a...
Molecular cloning and sequencing of a pectate lyase gene from Yersinia pseudotuberculosis.

Abstract A pectate lyase gene (pelY) from Yersinia pseudotuberculosis was cloned in Escherichia coli DH-5 alpha. The gene was expressed in either orientation in pUC plasmids, indicating that the insert DNA carried a Y. pseudotuberculosis promoter which functioned in E. coli. However, when cloned in the orientation which placed the coding region downstream of the vector lac promoter, expression of pelY was nine times higher than it was in the opposite orientation and the growth of E. coli cells was inhibited. Nucleotide sequence analysis of the pelY gene disclosed an open reading frame of 1,623 base pairs (PLY). The peptide sequence at the amino-terminal end of the protein contains a typical signal peptide sequence, consistent with the observation that the mature PLY protein accumulated largely in the periplasmic space of E. coli. The pI of PLY produced in E. coli cells was 4.5, and its activity was inhibited 90% or more by EDTA. The enzyme macerated cucumber tissue about 1,000 times less efficiently than did PLe from Erwinia chrysanthemi EC16. The pelY gene has no sequence similarity to the pel genes thus far sequenced from Erwinia spp.
The CP Half E-shaped patch: Evolving from linear polarization to compact single feed circularly polarized antennas

The design of compact, broadband, circularly polarized (CP) patch antennas is a challenging and prevalent issue that has garnered the attention of antenna researchers worldwide. Recently, the CP E-shaped patch antenna was proposed to realize a broad CP bandwidth, but its large size can prevent its use in applications requiring small form factors. This work explores the possibility of a miniaturized design using only half of the E-shape to realize a compact, broadband CP Half E-shaped patch design. We highlight the design concepts and demonstrate the novel design with an example at 2.4 GHz WLAN. The prototype features 5.3% axial ratio and impedance matching bandwidth.
Perturbed bands in real semiconducting glasses

Abstract A new model of semiconducting glasses is proposed yielding a high density of states near the band edges with a rather sharp drop-off towards the center of the band gap. Major carrier transport occurs by drift over potential barriers within the bands.
Rapid assessment of mid-infrared refractive index anisotropy using a prism coupler: chemical vapor deposited ZnS

A state-of-the-art mid-infrared prism coupler was used to study suspected anisotropy in the refractive index of forward-looking-infrared grade chemical vapor deposited (CVD) zinc sulfide. Samples were prepared with columnar grain structure in and perpendicular to the sample plane, as well as from different depths in the CVD growth body. This study was motivated by the growing industry concern among optical design engineers, as well as developers of mid-infrared systems, over the reliability of historically accepted index data. Prior photoluminescence and x-ray diffraction measurements have suggested that refractive index may vary according to sample orientation with respect to the grain structure. Measurements were conducted to provide optical dispersion and thermal index (dn/dT) data at discrete laser wavelengths between 0.633 and 10.591 μm at two temperature set points (30 °C and 90 °C). Refractive index measurements between samples exhibited an average standard deviation comparable to the uncertainty of the prism coupler measurement (0.0004 refractive index units), suggesting that the variation in refractive index as a function of sample orientation and CVD deposition time is negligible and should have no impact on subsequent optical designs. Measured dispersion data at mid-infrared wavelengths were also found to agree well with prior published measurements.
Nitric oxide synthase inhibition accelerates the pressor response to low-dose angiotensin II, exacerbates target organ damage, and induces renin escape

Abstract Because nitric oxide may attenuate both the pressor and cytotoxic effects of angiotensin II (Ang II), we investigated whether nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibition might accelerate the slow pressor effect of Ang II, and augment target organ damage. Using conscious, chronically catheterized rats, we previously observed that low-dose Ang II (10 ng/kg/min) rapidly increased mean arterial pressure (MAP) by approximately 25 mm Hg. The MAP then remained at this level for 2 to 4 days, and then increased again during the next 5 days by a further 25 mm Hg to a second plateau. In the present study, 7 days of Nω-nitro- l -arginine methyl ester (L-NAME; 10 μg/kg/min) alone increased MAP by 16 mm Hg. When Ang II was added to L-NAME, MAP increased as much as with Ang II alone, but then continued to increase until day 4, reaching a plateau as high as that reached only on day 9 of Ang II alone. In approximately half the rats infused with L-NAME + Ang II, plasma renin escaped from Ang II-induced suppression after day 4 of Ang II, and continued to increase for the duration of the study. On the first day that Ang II was added to L-NAME, urinary protein excretion and plasma cardiac troponin T increased, indicating early target organ damage. By the end of the study, all rats treated with L-NAME + Ang II developed tubulointerstitial and glomerular injuries, fibrosis of the renal and cardiac arteries, and cardiac interstitial fibrosis. Target organ damage was greater in rats that developed renin escape than in those in which plasma renin remained suppressed, but was minimal in rats infused with Ang II or L-NAME alone. Taken together, these findings suggest that endogenous NO normally attenuates the pressor response to low-dose Ang II for several days, and protects from Ang II-induced target organ damage. Under conditions of reduced NO bioavailability, which may result from endothelial insufficiency, relatively small changes in circulating Ang II levels may damage target organs. Moreover, renal damage leading to renin escape may initiate a vicious cycle of elevated Ang II production, leading to higher blood pressure and greater target organ damage.
Opportunity Estimation for Real-Time Energy Control of Sustainable Manufacturing Systems

Due to the complexity of modern manufacturing systems and the lack of optimal management of energy consumption, the energy efficiency of manufacturing systems in real industrial environment is much lower than designed level, which significantly increases operation cost, impedes company competitiveness in the global market, leads to high carbon dioxide emission, and results in destroyed environment and ecology. Compared with existing research efforts on energy management of single machine system in the literature, few works have been performed to study the opportunity for energy management of typical manufacturing systems with multiple machines and buffers. From the point-of-view of sustainability, considering stochastic factor and buffer utilization, this paper investigates the opportunity estimation for real-time energy control of typical multi-machine manufacturing systems without sacrificing system throughput. A numerical case study based on an automotive assembly line is used to illustrate the effectiveness and efficiency of the proposed method.
Synthesis of polyamides and polyureas containing leucine–tyrosine linkages

Monomers with leucine-tyrosine linkages were synthesized using diphenyl phosphoryl azide as a coupling reagent. Leucyltyrosylpoly(propylene glycol) bis(2-aminopropyl ether) tyrosylleucine (monomer 1) has a longer spacer: poly(propylene glycol) bis(2-aminopropyl ether (Jeffamine® D-400), and leucyltyrosyliminohexamethyleneiminotyrosylleucine (monomer 2) has a shorter spacer: hexamethylenediamine. Polyureas from monomers 1 and 2 with hexamethylene diisocyanate and methylenedi-p-phenyl diisocyanate were synthesized. Polyamide, polyesteramide from monomer 2 were synthesized. The characterization of these polymers using 1 H-NMR, 13 C-NMR, solid-state 13 C-NMR, IR, GPC, and also thermal analysis are presented.
Are Concurrent Processors General Purpose Computers

At Caltech, we have successfully used a 64 node concurrent processor for over a year and we extrapolate our experience to study the general applicability of this class of computer, We have implemented over ten scientific problems on our machine - ranging from high energy physics to matrix problems- and find typical speed ups of 50 over a single node. This corresponds to a power of 8 times a VAX11/780. We believe that the small available software base makes concurrent processors currently specialized machines. However we see no reason why they cannot be effectively applied to the large majority of computationally intense problems and so be a general purpose computer in the future when more software is available.
N-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid regulation of hepatic gene transcription.

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) of the n-6 and n-3 families inhibit transcription of a number of hepatic lipogenic and glycolytic genes, e.g. fatty acid synthase. In contrast, saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids exert no suppressive action on lipogenic gene expression. The unique PUFA regulation of gene expression extends beyond the liver to include genes such as adipocyte glucose transporter-4, lymphocyte stearoyl-CoA desaturase 2, and interleukins. Some of the transcriptional effects of PUFA appear to be mediated by eicosanoids, but PUFA suppression of lipogenic and glycolytic genes is independent of eicosanoid synthesis and appears to involve a nuclear mechanism directly modified by PUFA. With the recent cloning of a fatty acid-activated nuclear factor termed peroxisome-proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) has come the suggestion that PPAR may be the PUFA response factor. This review, however, presents several lines of evidence that indicate that the PPAR and n-6 and n-3 PUFA regulation of lipogenic and glycolytic gene transcription involve separate and independent mechanisms. Thus PPAR appears not to be the PUFA response factor.
Copper/polyimide Materials System for High Performance Packaging

Advancements in the speed and input/output (I/O) density of integrated circuits (IC's) used in computers and other high performance systems are creating a need for new designs, materials, and processes capable of providing high density multilayer interconnections with controlled electrical characteristics. To meet these needs, we selected an interconnect materials system consisting of multiple layers of thin film copper conductor patterns separated by polyimide (PI) dielectric layers, fabricated on a ceramic substrate. We developed processes for depositing films and patterning high resolution features in both conductor and dielectric films, and established a process sequence for filling vias and building up multilayer structures. We investigated the stability of the Cu/ PI materials system by determining the effects of cure conditions and humidity aging on the dielectric properties, internal stress, mechanical properties, and adhesion of PI. We then fabricated multilayer test structures, including a functional multichip ring oscillator circuit, to demonstrate process feasibility and the electrical performance of Cu/PI interconnections.
Quetiapine: treatment for substance abuse and drug of abuse.

Purpose. The use of quetiapine as a drug to treat various substance use disorders as well as a drug of abuse is examined. Summary. Quetiapine’s effectiveness in treating schizophrenia and bipolar disorder is well-known; however, growing evidence has indicated that it may be useful in the treatment of various substance use disorders. Small-scale studies have been conducted to investigate the potential benefit of quetiapine in patients dependent on alcohol, cocaine, and amphetamines. The results of these two studies provide some evidence that quetiapine may benefit patients diagnosed with a mental illness who are also dependent on cocaine, amphetamines, or both, though more rigorous studies are needed. An unforeseen use of antipsychotics, specifically quetiapine, as drugs of abuse has emerged. Since antipsychotics are not classified as controlled substances, the majority of clinicians may not consider the diversion of antipsychotics for recreational purposes, but evidence of this is increasing, particularly in incarcerated individuals. Intravenous quetiapine abuse was first reported in the literature in 2005. Although most cases of quetiapine abuse have been reported in the correctional setting, inappropriate quetiapine use within the community has been documented. Thus far, all of the documented cases have involved patients with a prior history of substance abuse. Clinicians must be cognizant of the potential for quetiapine as a treatment for substance use disorders and as a drug of abuse. Conclusion. Quetiapine is a promising treatment for substance use disorders alone or combined with other psychiatric diagnoses, such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Quetiapine abuse has also been documented, particularly in the correctional setting.
Identification of Cyclic Nucleotide-regulated Phosphoproteins, Including Phosducin, in Motile Rod Inner-Outer Segments of Teleosts

Abstract In teleost retinas, rods elongate in the light and shorten in the dark. Rod motility is mediated by the actin cytoskeleton of the inner segment and is regulated by cyclic AMP- or cyclic GMP-stimulated phosphorylation of target proteins. In this study, we have identified the target proteins of cyclic nucleotide-dependent kinases in rods, using preparations of isolated, motile rod inner-outer segments (RIS-ROS). Five proteins found in Percoll-purified RIS-ROS were phorphorylated in the presence of cAMP (> 10 nM), cGMP (⩾ 10 μM) and exogenous catalytic subunit of cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA). The PKA inhibitor, PKI, blocked stimulation of phosphorylation by both cAMP and cGMP. Three cAMP-stimulated phosphoproteins were detected in cytoskeletal fractions of light- and dark-adapted RIS-ROS. One of these, PP33, appears to be a fish homologue of mammalian phosducin, based on immunolabeling by two different antibodies against mammalian phosducin and on electrophoretic characteristics in 2-D gels. Two additional phosducin immunoreactive bands were detected in Western blots. One, at 35 kDa, comigrated with a second cAMP-stimulated RIS-ROS phosphoprotein, PP35, which was also detected in the cytoskeleton. The other, at 37 kDa, was present in whole teleost retinas but not in purified RIS-ROS. Our results suggest that the effects of both cAMP and cGMP on teleost rod motility are mediated through PKA modulation of target phosphoproteins. These phosphoproteins include a cytoskeleton-associated phosducin homologue.
Mechanism of dystrophic calcification in rabbit aortas: Temporal and spatial distributions of calcifying vesicles and calcification-related structural proteins

Abstract Introduction We have previously demonstrated the accumulation of calcifying vesicles in the thoracic aorta undergoing dystrophic calcification. Whether the distributions of other structural proteins related to calcification such as collagen and elastin fibers undergo coordinated modifications has not been established. Methods Young rabbits with various degrees of aortic calcification induced by cholesterol dietary interventions were used as an animal model to study the correlations. Results Rabbits fed a diet enriched in cholesterol for 3 months accumulated calcifying vesicles in the ascending thoracic aortas but did not develop histologically identifiable calcification. There were concomitant marked thickenings of the intima with focal deposition of collagen and disruption of the internal elastic fibers at this stage. By the 6th month, calcification was predominantly present in the intimal area adjacent to the media. At this calcified stage, calcifying activity of vesicles was higher than earlier stages. Concomitantly, collagen deposition in the lesions was intensified and the internal elastic fibers were completely disintegrated. These changes were found to be more profound in the proximal than in the distal portion of the aortas. Conclusion The coordinated changes in the accumulation of collagen, disintegration of internal elastic fibers, and the appearance of calcifying vesicles in the lesions before calcification may set the stage for aortic calcification.
Approximation of intraparticle mass transfer in adsorption processes. II : non-linear systems

Abstract Approximate expressions of adsorbate uptake rate by spherical pellets were derived from the solutions of the intraparticle diffusion equation by the methods of weighted residuals. For systems with linear adsorption isotherms, the classic linear driving force (LDF) expression was shown to be equivalent to the solution of the intraparticle, diffusion equation using the orthogonal collocation method with one collocation point. Alternatively, it can be shown that the LDF expression gives the best approximation (in the least-square sense) if a parabolic adsorbate concentration profile within the pellet is assumed. The use of higher-order polynomials for approximating the adsorbate concentration profile is equivalent to the use of a correspondingly larger number of collocation points in the solution of the intraparticle diffusion equation.
USDA Food and Nutrient Database for Dietary Studies : Released on the web

The USDA Survey Nutrient Database and other technical files used to code foods and calculate nutrient values for national food consumption surveys were updated, redesigned, and renamed the USDA Food and Nutrient Database for Dietary Studies (FNDDS). This new database is now available over the internet from the Food Surveys Research Group (FSRG). Code numbers, food descriptions and food portion weights were added to accommodate the latest release of What We Eat in America, the dietary component of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Food weights and portions were updated to reflect current fast food and other individually sized products. Nutrients were added and all nutrient values were updated based on the latest release of the USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference. The FNDDS can be downloaded from the FSRG website (http://www.ars.usda.gov/ba/bhnrc/fsrg) in both ASCII and Microsoft Access® formats. It contains descriptions for 13,500 foods, complete data for energy and 62 other nutrients, and over 30,000 weights for common food portions. The database may be used in conjunction with dietary data from What We Eat in America/NHANES, or applied to other dietary studies to provide comparability with national data.
Treatment of older adult patients diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis : Improved but not optimal

Objective The National Committee on Quality Assurance has determined that all patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) should be treated with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). Our objective was to determine the rate and predictors of DMARD use in a cohort of elderly patients with RA. Methods We analyzed health care utilization data for 5,864 Medicare beneficiaries with RA who also participated in a state-run pharmaceutical benefit program in Pennsylvania. Patients with RA were defined as those with at least 3 diagnoses of RA (International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision code 714.xx) at least 1 week apart who were enrolled in these programs for at least 12 months during 1995–2004. Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess predictors of synthetic or biologic DMARD use in the 12 months after cohort entry. Results Thirty percent of patients filled a DMARD prescription during 12 months of followup. Frequency of DMARD use increased steadily over time: 24% received DMARDs in 1996 compared with 43% in 2003 (P for trend <0.001). Of patients with at least 1 rheumatologist visit, 41% received a DMARD in 1996 compared with 70% in 2003 (P < 0.001). After the introduction of biologic DMARDs in 1998, 6% of all patients with RA received a biologic, including 12% who saw a rheumatologist. Patients ages 75–84 were 52% less likely to receive DMARDs (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 46–58%) and patients ages ≥85 were 74% less likely (95% CI 69–79%) compared with patients ages 65–74. Conclusion In this cohort of patients in the community with full prescription drug coverage, most patients diagnosed with RA did not receive a DMARD during the 12 months after cohort entry. Older patients and those not seeing a rheumatologist were less likely to receive a DMARD and may provide a target for quality improvement interventions.
High frequency somatic embryogenesis in peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) using mature, dry seed

Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) somatic embryos were produced from the embryo axes of mature, dry seeds of cultivar GK-7. Percent embryogenic explants ranged from 88–100% using 10–40 mg/1 of 2,4-D in the induction medium. Neither 2,4-D concentration nor photoperiod during the induction period had a large effect on percent embryogenesis, mean number of embryos per explant, or embryo morphology. However, embryos obtained from cultures grown in the dark were easier to remove from the explant than those under a 16-h photoperiod. Somatic embryos developed on the epicotyl portion of the embryo axis, primarily on the young, expanding leaves. A survey of 14 genotypes indicated that genotype had a large influence on embryogenic capacity, with all genotypes being embryogenic to some extent. The ability to recover somatic embryos from axes of harvested, stored seeds represents significant advantages for the establishment of peanut embryogenic cultures, including the use of simple sterilization procedures and a constant source of explant tissue.
Base excision repair sensitizes cells to sulfur mustard and chloroethyl ethyl sulfide

DNA repair generally functions to improve survival and reduce mutagenesis of cells that have suffered DNA damage. In this study we examine the role of nucleotide excision repair (NER) and base excision repair (BER) in recovery, mutagenesis and DNA repair in response to DNA damage inflicted by the mustard compounds, sulfur mustard (SM) and chloroethyl ethyl sulfide (CEES) in bacteria and mammalian cells. SM and CEES are compared because SM produces cross-links and monoadducts, whereas CEES produces only monoadducts that are similar to those produced by SM, thus allowing the examination of which types of lesions may be responsible for the effects seen. We find that the presence of a functional NER pathway increases survival and reduces mutagenesis, whereas the presence of a functional BER pathway reduces survival, increases mutagenesis, and decreases repair. The deleterious effects of BER appear to be due to an interaction between the DNA glycosylases and the lesions produced by SM and CEES. Possible mechanisms for BER-mediated sensitization by glycosylase action on mustard lesions are discussed.
Liquid crystal surfactant films for electrochemical catalysis

Abstract This article reviews properties of self-assembled films of insoluble surfactants and surfactant composites and their applications to electrochemical catalysis. These films are supramolecular aggregates resembling stacks of biological membranes, featuring multi-lamellar surfactant bilayers. They can provide stable, fluid, catalytic coatings on carbon electrodes, and have potential applications as sensors, in chemical conversions, and in materials science. In their liquid crystal states, these films exhibit excellent charge and mass transport suitable for catalytic systems. They can also preconcentrate non-polar organic reactants, which may facilitate kinetic control of catalytic reactions. Metal macrocyclic complexes and the protein myoglobin have been introduced into these films as catalysts. Multiply charged ions in aqueous solutions cannot enter such films, providing selectivity in electrolytic applications. Electrochemical catalysis of the reduction of organohalide pollutants by catalytic surfactant films is discussed.
Sterile and Nonsterile Degradation of Carbon‐14‐Primisulfuron in Soil from Four Depths

The degradation of 14 C-primisulfuron (2-[[[[[4,6-bis(difluoromethoxy)-2-pyrimidinyl]amino]carbonyl]amino]sulfonyl]benzoic acid) was monitored for 2 mo using soil microcosms under sterile and nonsterile conditions. Both chemical and biological degradation was detected. The half-life was 2.1 wk for nonsterile samples from 0 to 5 cm, and 3.4 wk for nonsterile samples from 20 to 25 cm. After 7 wk, bound residues accounted for 48 and 27% of the recovered radioactivity in these samples, respectively. For sterile samples from the same depths, the half-life was >7 wk and bound residues accounted for 7% of the recovered radiolabel. Disappearance and bound residue formation of primisulfuron were similar for both sterile and nonsterile samples from deeper in the profile (45-75 cm) indicating little biological degradation occurred in these subsurface samples. Chemical and microbial degradation of primisulfuron appeared to differ; the same metabolites were produced but at different times and in different amounts. Very little 14 CO 2 (<3%) was produced from any sample. These results indicate that initial hydrolyzation of the sulfonylurea bridge occurs both chemically and biologically, but does not occur readily in the subsoil. This may have implications for the prevention of groundwater contamination and for the bioremediation of contaminated soils.
Development of vegetation in dune slack wetlands of Cape Cod National Seashore (Massachusetts, USA)

Interdunal seasonal wetlands, known as dune slack wetlands, were mapped and their vegetation surveyed across a large region of dunes within the Cape Cod National Seashore. Wetland sizes and ages were estimated from digitized, georeferenced aerial photographs available from 1938, 1947, 1960, 1986, 1994, and 2001, and from LIDAR elevation data. A total of 346 sites were found, covering an area of ∼45.4 ha., in which 97 species of vascular plants were identified. Vegetation structure and composition exhibited a distinct sequence of development with age, following a pattern of succession from herbaceous, graminoid-dominated communities to shrub- and tree-dominated communities. Floristic variables were not related to proximity to the coast and although wetland size appeared to have some bearing on species richness, the correlation was statistically weak. Soil organic matter determined for a subset of 60 wetlands was positively correlated with age and woody cover but showed no relationship with water depth. The results suggest that vegetation development is primarily driven by the internal mechanisms of succession. Notwithstanding, any changes in the environment that alter the process of succession will collectively influence these wetlands. In addition, stabilization of the dunes resulting in a reduction in the formation of new wetlands, may translate into permanent loss of early and mid-successional dune slack communities. Maintenance of these communities will depend on succession being periodically reset by disturbance or active management.
Factors associated with stroke following the Fontan procedure.

We reviewed the results of 68 consecutive Fontan procedures from 1978 to 1993 to determine the frequency of late central neurologic complications of the Fontan procedure in patients living at a mean altitude of 4500 feet. Two surviving patients had transient neurologic symptoms or signs with no corresponding evidence of brain injury by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), whereas six surviving patients had strokes defined by sustained neurologic symptoms or signs with areas of brain injury identified by MRI [8.8% (6.0–13.0%; 70% confidence limits)]. Collectively, patients with neurologic symptoms had normal hemoglobin values, platelet counts, partial thromboplastin times, and prothrombin times at the onset of clinical neurologic findings. Two patients were taking antiplatelet agents, and one patient was taking warfarin. One of the patient's with transient neurologic findings and all of the stroke patients had residual right-to-left shunts. Thus strokes were not uncommon in our patients after the Fontan procedure. Brain injury may result. from thromboembolic events associated with residual right-to-left shunts, but our total number of asymptomatic patients with a residual shunt or brain abnormalities by MRI is not known.
Abnormal left ventricular ejection fraction response to mental stress and exercise in cardiomyopathy

Background A decline in left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction in response to mental stress and exercise is regarded as an indicator of myocardial ischemia. In patients with LV dysfunction, the ejection fraction is sensitive to afterload, which increases during stress. Thus, the effects of mental stress and exercise on LV systolic function in patients with cardiomyopathy were examined. Methods The ambulatory nuclear VEST (Capintec, Inc., Ramsey, N.J.) was used to monitor LV ejection fraction in patients with cardiomyopathy (10 idiopathic and 9 ischemic). Patients underwent a series of mental stress tests (serial 7s, Stroop color, and Paced auditory addition) and treadmill exercise. Heart rate, systolic blood pressure, and LV ejection fraction were measured. Results Mental stress and exercise increased heart rate and systolic blood pressure. For idiopathic cardiomyopathy, LV ejection fraction decreased during serial 7s, Stroop color, Paced auditory addition and exercise by −8%±6%, −7%±5%, −7%±3%, −9%±10%, respectively. For ischemic cardiomyopathy, LV ejection fraction declined by −4%±3%, −7%±5%, −6%±3%, −2%±6%,during the same stress tests. There was no difference between the idiopathic and ischemic groups. Each patient showed a 5% or greater decline in LV ejection fraction during one mental stress test. There was an inverse relation between changes in LV ejection fraction and systolic blood pressure during all mental stress tests and exercise (r=−0.47, p Conclusions In patients with depressed baseline systolic function, the decline in systolic function during mental stress and exercise could be related in part to increases in LV afterload.
FACTORS UNDERLYING GRAIN YIELD SPATIAL VARIABILITY IN THREE IRRIGATED WHEAT FIELDS

Three irrigated wheat fields in western Yolo County, California, were studied to determine the magnitude and causes of spatial variability in grain yield. Point samples of soil properties were taken on a regular 61 m grid in each field. False color infrared aerial photographs were taken of each field under bare soil conditions and twice during the cropping season. Yield monitor data were collected at harvest. Two of the three fields showed substantial spatial variability in grain yield. Correlation analysis and CART (classification and regression trees) were used to identify factors underlying grain yield spatial variability. Primary causes of variability were soil texture, weed level, and soil phosphate level. Results of the CART analysis were used to subdivide the two fields with high spatial variability into management zones.
Osmotic coefficients and activity coefficients of lodic acid at high concentrations

Isopiestic vapor pressure measurements have been used to determine the osmotic coefficients of aqueous solutions of iodic acid at molalities from 0.1 to 17 mole-kg−1 at 25°C. The isopiestic standards were solutions of sodium chloride and solutions of sulfuric acid. Because of the corrosive nature of iodic acid, platinum cups were used. Stoichiometric activity cofficients of iodic acid were derived by a Gibbs-Duhem integration. The activity coefficients for solutions of molality greater than 0.5 mole-kg−1 cannot be accounted for in terms of the two equilibria, namely, the acidic dissociation of iodic acid and formation of the ion H(IO3)2−, shown by Pethybridge and Prue to explain adequately the behavior in dilute solutions. The activity coefficient is unexpectedly small in concentrated solutions, suggesting the formation of neutral aggregates of iodic acid. The presence of dimers and tetramers, or alternatively trimers and tetramers, can explain the observed results up to a molality of 7 mole-kg−1.
DFT Study of Alkynyl Porphyrin Dimers and Brominated Tetraphenyl Porphyrins

Geometry optimizations and electronic structure calculations using Density Functional Theory (DFT) are reported for tetra-acetylene porphyrins (TAP), their dimers, and octabromotetraphenyl porphyrins (OBP). The acetylene group contributes to the π-electron conjugation along the porphyrin ring for the HOMO and LUMO, and reduces significantly the HOMO-LUMO gap. The gap is further reduced in dimers. The planar geometry of the TAP dimer has a lower energy than the non-planar one. The geometry of H2OBP is found to be non-planar, and the distortion of porphyrin ring is shown to be closely related to the HOMO-LUMO gap.
Supporting Dyslexia in the Programming Classroom

Abstract Existing approaches to teaching in higher education continue, despite legislation, to be largely exclusive of the dyslexic population. In this report, the ICF classification of dyslexia, current legislation on disability, and the problems associated with dyslexia are investigated within the higher educational sphere, and specifically within the field of programming. Dyslexic adults who study programming at university or college level could be better supported through the use of sequential assessments, multi-modal approaches to learning, assistive technologies, and appropriate tutor support. In consequence of these approaches, the standards set by the ICF, the DDA (1995), and the Equality Act (2010) should be met in the higher education programming classroom.
Estimation of Attractivities from Interactions

Net geographical interactions are assumed to be related to differences in attractivity, reduced by spatial separation. It is demonstrated that only the differences of the marginals of the interacti...
An Examination of information technology related users groups

Information Technology (IT) related users groups are an important way for IT professionals to continue their education, network with other like-minded peers, and to get involved in their IT community. These groups provide a tremendous resource for the community at large in terms of job growth and recruitment of new and young IT professionals. They also serve as a barometer to how the industry is doing and as to what subjects should be covered in the curriculum. This is a resource that has been largely untapped by the educational institutions in the Greater Cincinnati Area. This paper examines the various IT-related organizations at the local level and the value they provide. However, there is no reason as to why this would not apply to any metropolitan area.
Modified methods for the determination of carbamyl aspartate

Summary Two simple and reproducible modifications of Ceriotti's colorimetric method are presented. These procedures may be used to measure carbamyl aspartate and other ureido compounds, and yield somewhat greater activity for carbamyl aspartate than has been possible with other techniques.
Accruing Retirement Costs for Federal Employees

The president's 2003 budget proposed that federal agencies pay the full cost of their employees' pension and retiree health benefits as such benefits are earned starting in 2003. The main reason for the proposed change is to provide policymakers and agency managers with a more complete measure of the cost of providing current services. The main disadvantage of the proposal is that estimates of the accrual costs of retiree health benefits are subject to large errors. The proposed change would not increase total outlays, nor would it affect the budget deficit or surplus.
Plasma Proteins of Chickens as Influenced by Time of Laying, Ovulation, Number of Blood Samples Taken and Plasma Volume

Abstract IN REVIEWING the literature upon plasma or serum proteins of chickens one is impressed by the considerable variation in values reported by the different investigators. Many of the studies have been based upon small numbers and give no details concerning the age, sex, state of reproduction, or other conditions. A number of workers have reported upon total proteins of the blood of chickens of various ages and conditions, but fewer individuals have studied the individual components of the proteins. Howe (1925), in reviewing some of the earlier work, reported that most of the values were too high because of the unreliability of the methods used. He gives a value for total serum proteins of 3.6 grams percent for two adult chickens, of unknown sex. The A/G ratio was 1.02. Other workers, including Dyer and Roe (1934), Chorine (1938), and Defalco (1942) reported A/G ratio (albumin to globulin) of 0.7 to . . .
Largemouth bass consumption demand on hatchery rainbow trout in two Washington lakes

High mortality (84–89%) of stocked rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) in Twin Lakes, Washington, has been partially blamed on predation from non-native largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides). We examined the gut-content of 434 largemouth bass and applied a bioenergetics model to determine the consumption demand on hatchery-released rainbow trout and other prey species in the Twin Lakes. Largemouth bass consumed approximately 4915 (95% CI; 2393–13,452) fall stocked rainbow trout in South Twin. No rainbow trout consumption was observed in North Twin, despite a similar stocking regime. Approximately 6.3% (95% CI; 3–17%) of total fall stocked rainbow trout in South Twin were consumed by largemouth bass. Rainbow trout stocked in the fall ranged from 100 to 160 mm total length and were all subject to predation by large largemouth bass ⩾300 mm. Large largemouth bass consumed rainbow trout that reached up to 210 mm in length and 58% of bass body length. No predation was observed on larger rainbow trout (215–370...