cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Association of Cardiac Rehabilitation with Improved Healthcare Utilization and Long-Term Survival after Left Ventricular Assist Device Implantation

Purpose There are limited data on the association between participation in cardiac rehabilitation (CR) following continuous-flow (CF) left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation and long-term outcomes, including healthcare utilization (readmission and days out of the hospital) and survival. Methods We studied patients who were referred to CR after CF-LVAD implant at a tertiary medical center from 2013-18. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression modeling was used to study the association of participation in CR with survival. Results Among 197 LVAD patients referred to CR, 122 (62%) participated in CR. There were no significant differences in clinical characteristics, echocardiographic and right heart catheterization measures, and laboratory values, or in the incidence of postoperative right heart failure in participants and non-participants. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed that participants in CR had significantly higher survival rates 5 years after discharge (59%) compared to non-participants (28%; p Conclusion Supervised CR is associated with improved survival, decreased readmission rate, and increased days out of the hospital in LVAD patients during long-term follow-up. Methods to increase participation in CR, including home-based CR, may be useful in this population.
The Home Numeracy Environment and Measurement of Numeracy Performance in English and Spanish in Dual Language Learners

Some evidence suggests that the home numeracy environment (HNE) is related to children’s numeracy. Socioeconomic status (SES) and language minority status can also influence children’s HNE and nume...
Simulated memory error and blame attribution in cases of child sexual abuse

The present study utilized simulated memory error and blame attributions to investigate the effects of variations in rehearsal on memory. Specifically, 222 undergraduates read a story about child s...
Depression in MS is Associated with Worsening Neuroperformance, Relapses, and New Brain Lesions (4392)

Objective: To evaluate the association of depression with short-term neurological outcomes in a large longitudinal clinical cohort. Background: Depression is common in multiple sclerosis (MS). Psychosocial, inflammatory, and neurodegenerative factors have been hypothesized as etiologies. The relationship of depression to MS disease activity is not clear. Design/Methods: Standardized clinical and MRI data from baseline and 12-month routine follow-up clinical visits were obtained from Partners-Advancing-Technology-and-Health-Solutions (MS-PATHS) database, a registry of patients from 10 MS centers. Demographic and clinical data, patient reported outcomes, neuroperformance scores (manual dexterity, walking speed, and processing speed tests), and MRI metrics were analyzed. Propensity score weighting, with baseline depression status (depressed and non-depressed: Quality-of-Life-in-Neurological-Disorders (NeuroQoL) depression T-score >45, ≤45, respectively) as exposure, was performed using all baseline covariates. Covariates balance was assessed and the weighting and matching method with best balance was selected. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of worsened neuroperformance composite, new relapses, and new MRI activity at month-12 were derived via multivariate logistic regression after propensity adjustment. Results: 1923 patients were included in the analysis. Propensity score weighting showed adequate overlap between depressed and non-depressed groups on all baseline measures. Average-treatment-effects-on-the-treated weighting demonstrated the best covariate balance. Patients with baseline depression compared to those without had greater odds of ≥20% worsening on ≥1 neuroperformance component (OR 1.41, CI 1.05, 1.89), ≥1 new T2 lesion (OR 1.49, CI 0.68, 3.27), ≥1 relapse (OR 1.29, CI 0.89, 1.87), and ≥1 new contrast-enhancing lesions (OR 1.54, CI 0.53, 4.42) at month-12. Conclusions: In this large real-world observational cohort, after adjusting for baseline covariates, MS patients with depression at baseline showed more worsening in neurological function, relapses, and MRI lesion activity over the next year compared to non-depressed patients. Our results suggest that depression is not merely a reactive symptom but indicates increased risk of future MS disease activity. Disclosure: Dr. Feng has received personal compensation for consulting, serving on a scientific advisory board, speaking, or other activities with Sanofi. Yes Consulting: Convelo, Population Council; Speaking: Mylan Yes Editor, Multiple Sclerosis Journal.Dr. Ontaneda has received personal compensation for consulting, serving on a scientific advisory board, speaking, or other activities with Consulting from Biogen Idec, Genentech, Genzyme, Merck, Novartis.. Dr. Ontaneda has received research support from Funding from PCORI, NIH, NMSS, Race to Erase, Genentech, Genzyme, Novartis..
Effects of kinesiophobia and pain on performance and willingness to perform jumping tests in Achilles tendinopathy: A cross-sectional study

Abstract Objectives Fear of movement may be a source of systemic bias in studies reporting functional deficits in patients with Achilles tendinopathy. The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of kinesiophobia on completion rate and performance on tests evaluating lower extremity function, while controlling for self-reported pain. Design Cross-sectional study; Setting Tendon research laboratory. Participants Ninety-four participants with Achilles tendinopathy. Main outcome measures Completion (yes/no) and performance (cm) on the counter-movement jump, hopping, and drop counter-movement jump. Results The models fit the data (R^2 = 0.81, both models). TSK score did not predict completion (beta = −0.01, 95% CI = −0.13 – 0.09, P = 0.74) but pain did (beta = −0.36, 95% CI = −0.53 to −0.19, P Conclusions Kinesiophobia did not affect the physical performance tests in patients with Achilles tendinopathy. Measures of physical performance should be interpreted alongside self-reported pain.
Association Between Prenatal Opioid Exposure and Neurodevelopmental Outcomes in Early Childhood: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Several studies have reported increasing prevalence of prescription opioid use among pregnant women. However, little is known regarding the effects of maternal opioid use on neurodevelopmental disorders in early childhood in pregnant women with no evidence of opioid use disorders or drug dependence. The aim of this study was to quantify the association between prenatal opioid exposure from maternal prescription use and neurodevelopmental outcomes in early childhood. This retrospective study included pregnant women aged 12–55 years and their live-birth infants born from 2010 to 2012 present in Optum’s deidentified Clinformatics® Data Mart database. Eligible infants born to mothers without opioid use disorders or drug dependence were followed till occurrence of neurodevelopmental disorders, loss to follow-up, or study end (December 31, 2017), whichever came first. Propensity score by fine stratification was applied to adjust for confounding by demographic characteristics, obstetric characteristics, maternal comorbid mental and pain conditions, and measures of burden of illnesses and to obtain adjusted hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Exposed and unexposed infants were compared on the incidence of neurodevelopmental disorders. Of 24,910 newborns, 7.6% (1899) were prenatally exposed to prescription opioids. Overall, 1562 children were diagnosed with neurodevelopmental disorders, with crude incidence rates of 2.9 per 100 person-years in exposed children versus 2.5 per 100 person-years in unexposed children. After adjustment, we observed no association between fetal opioid exposure and the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders (HR 1.10; 95% CI 0.92–1.32). However, increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders were observed in children with longer cumulative exposure duration (HR 1.70; 95% CI 1.05–2.96) or high cumulative opioid doses (HR 1.22; 95% CI 1.01–1.54). In pregnant women without opioid use disorders or drug dependence, maternal opioid use was not associated with increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders in early childhood. However, increased risks of early neurodevelopmental disorders were observed in children born to women receiving prescription opioids for longer duration and at higher doses during pregnancy.
A numerical study of strong-post double-faced W-beam and Thrie-beam guardrails under impacts of vehicles of multiple size classes.

Abstract Median barrier systems are safety features between opposite travel lanes to redirect or prevent errant vehicles from intruding into oncoming traffic lanes. Different barriers systems have been developed and used for decades. In this study, finite element (FE) modeling and simulations were adopted to study the performance of double-faced W-beam and Thrie-beam guardrails at 29- and 31-inch installation heights. The in-service guardrail performance was evaluated under impacts of multiple sized vehicles at Test Level 4 and Test Level 5 conditions specified in Manual for Assessing Safety Hardware (MASH). The effectiveness of the guardrails was assessed using guardrail dynamic deflections, vehicle responses, and vehicle redirection characteristics. The MASH exit box criterion, MASH evaluation criterion F (roll and pitch angle limit), and MASH evaluation criterion N (vehicle trajectory) were adopted in the evaluations. Additionally, occupant safety and injury risk were determined using occupant impact velocities (OIVs), occupant ridedown accelerations (ORAs), and acceleration severity indices (ASIs). The crash simulation results showed that both W-beam and Thrie-beam guardrails could retain all test vehicles and prevent them from getting into oncoming travel lanes. All the guardrails were considered generally effective in terms of occupant risk factors and vehicle impact responses. It was also observed that in certain cases, the installation height and the type of guardrail blockout could affect the impact severity for small-sized vehicles.
Putting Tools in Their Place: The Role of Time and Perspective in Human-AI Collaboration for Qualitative Analysis

Large datasets or 'big data' corpora are typically the domain of quantitative scholars, who work with computational tools to derive numerical and descriptive insights. However, recent work asks how computational tools and other technologies, such as AI, can support qualitative scholars in developing deep and complex insights from large amounts of data. Addressing this question, Jiang et al. found that qualitative scholars are generally opposed to incorporating AI in their practices of data analysis. In this paper, we provide nuance to these earlier findings, showing that the stage of qualitative analysis matters for how scholars believe AI can and should be used. Through interviews with 15 CSCW and HCI qualitative researchers, we explore how AI can be included throughout different stages of qualitative analysis. We find that qualitative scholars are amenable to working with AI in diverse ways, such as for data exploration and coding, as long as it assists rather than automates their analytic work practice. Based on our analysis, we discuss how incorporating AI into qualitative research can shift some analytic practices, and how designing for human-AI collaboration in qualitative analysis necessitates considering tradeoffs in scale, abstraction, and task delegation.
Chapter 2 The 1978 Oceanic Trilogy: Seasat, Nimbus-7, and Tiros-N

Publisher Summary This chapter summarizes the results achieved from three satellites— Seasat, Nimbus-7, and TIROS-N. These results are discussed as a function of the sensors rather than the geophysical observables. The six oceanic sensors outlined in the chapter, all met or exceeded the original design specifications for geophysical data. Each provided a unique view of the ocean surface or near-surface, and except for the altimeter and the AVHRR, each sensor offered for the first time other methods for observing global oceans and ice dynamics. For the original design expectations quantitative measurements have been made. A summary of results of these measurements is presented in a table, which also includes observables that have not been quantified but still provide useful qualitative data on other ocean features. Schematic of Seasat altimeter data collection modeling and tracking system is illustrated. A scatter diagram that compares altimeter wind speed with NDBO wind measurements is displayed. A general comparison of SASS data to surface data is shown. An overview of Visible and infraRed Radiometer (VIRR) is also presented.
Effects of Strontium as Substitute for Extracellular Calcium on Contraction and Relaxation of Vascular Smooth Muscle

Contraction of a muscle is activated by a rise in intracellular free-Ca2+ concentration (1). It was shown that there are different trigger mechanisms that activate the contractile apparatus of vascular smooth muscle by causing an increase in the intracellular Ca2+ concentration (2). The source of Ca2+ may be extracellular, intracellular, or both, depending on the type of trigger mechanisms (2,3). At present, the source of the activator Ca2+ of individual trigger mechanisms remains the subject of study. In contraction of various types of muscles, it is known that Sr2+ is effective as a substitute for external Ca2+ (4–7). The purpose of this report is to determine whether Sr2+ can substitute for external Ca2+ in inducing contraction and relaxation and to compare the effectiveness between Ca2+ and Sr2+ in several types of contraction and relaxation of vascular smooth muscle. The following different types of contraction were selected as representative samples to be studied: (1) spontaneous rhythmic contraction of rat portal vein, (2) spontaneous tonic contraction of rat skeletal muscle artery, (3) potassium-induced contraction of dog external jugular vein and dog mesenteric artery, and (4) norepinephrine-induced contraction of dog external jugular vein and dog mesentric artery.
Proliferation-associated nucleolar antigen P120: a prognostic marker in node-negative breast cancer.

Background P120 is a nucleolar proliferation antigen found in rapidly dividing cells and in a variety of malignancies. Methods Our purpose was to determine whether P120 expression is a prognostic factor for patients with node-negative breast cancer by testing pathologic material from 90 patients for P120 immunoreactivity, histologic grade, and estrogen receptors. Results P120 was detected in 52 of the 90 specimens (58%). Node-negative cancer patients with tumors that did not express the P120 antigen had a significantly better overall survival rate than node-negative cancer patients with tumors that did express P120 (92% vs 69%; p = 0.035). Histologic studies indicated that 36 tumors were grade I, 28 were grade II, and 26 were grade III. The presence of P120 correlated significantly with the nuclear grade of the tumor: 73% of grade III tumors, 64% of grade II tumors, and 42% of grade I tumors stained positive for P120 (p = 0.033). The correlation between nuclear grade and overall survival rate was also significant (grade 1, 94%; grade II, 79%; grade III, 58%); (p = 0.003). No significant correlation was found between P120 expression and estrogen receptors. Multivariate analysis shows that P120 expression and histologic grade together are the strongest predictors of survival. Conclusions The biologic marker P120 may play an important role in determining which patients with node-negative cancer will benefit most from adjuvant therapy.
Deeper Sparsely Nets can be Optimal

The starting points of this paper are two size-optimal solutions: (i) one for implementing arbitrary Boolean functions [1]; and (ii) another one for implementing certain sub-classes of Boolean functions [2]. Because VLSI implementations do not cope well with highly interconnected nets – the area of a chip grows with the cube of the fan-in [3] – this paper will analyse the influence of limited fan-in on the size optimality for the two solutions mentioned. First, we will extend a result from Horne & Hush [1] valid for fan-ins D = 2 to arbitrary fan-in. Second, we will prove that size-optimal solutions are obtained for small constant fan-in for both constructions, while relative minimum size solutions can be obtained for fan-ins strictly lower than linear. These results are in agreement with similar ones proving that for small constant fan-ins (D = 6 ... 9), there exist VLSI-optimal (i.e., minimising AT2) solutions [4], while there are similar small constants relating to our capacity of processing information [5].
Factors that restrict the cell permeation of cyclic prodrugs of an opioid peptide, part 4: Characterization of the biopharmaceutical and physicochemical properties of two new cyclic prodrugs designed to be stable to oxidative metabolism by cytochrome P-450 enzymes in the intestinal mucosa

The biopharmaceutical and physicochemical properties of two new cyclic prodrugs (CA-[cychexalanine (Cha(4)), D-Leu(5) ]-Enkephalin (Enk) and coumarinic acid (CA)-[Cha(4), D-Ala(5)]-Enk) of opioid peptides that were designed to be stable to oxidative metabolism by cytochrome P-450 enzymes in the intestinal mucosa are described in this paper. Two-dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance studies and molecular dynamics simulations showed that these cyclic prodrugs exhibit unique solution conformations (i.e., type I β-turns), which are favorable for transcellular permeation. The calculated molecular surface areas and cLog P values confirmed that these new cyclic prodrugs are more lipophilic than linear opioid peptides and, thus, they should exhibit better transcellular permeation characteristics. However, Caco-2 cell permeation studies showed that the cyclic prodrugs were substrates for apically polarized efflux transporters (e.g., P-glycoprotein, which significantly limited their transcellular permeation). Permeability studies using an in situ rat intestinal perfusion model confirmed the poor intestinal permeation characteristics of CA-[Cha(4), D-Leu(5) ]-Enk and CA-[Cha(4), D-Ala(5)]-Enk as well as the stability of these two new cyclic prodrugs of opioid peptides to oxidative metabolism. In conclusion, these data clearly show that oral absorption of cyclic prodrugs of opioid peptides can only be achieved by designing molecules devoid of substrate activity for both cytochrome P-450 enzymes and efflux transporters in the intestinal mucosa.
Facets of the Tetsuo Nozoe Legacy Immortalized in an Enduring Series of International Symposia on Novel Aromatic Compounds (ISNA)

Note from the Editor: According to Robert K. Merton (1988), “Invisible college” is a term used “to designate the informal collectives of scientists interacting in their research on similar problems, these groups being generally limited to a size ‘that can be handled by interpersonal relationships.’ ” Invisible colleges can be highly competitive, even ugly in their priority races, or they can be congenial, even enthusiastically supportive to its members. In the community of organic chemists who studied novel aromatic chemistry in the 1950s–1990s, one man—Tetsuo Nozoe—is largely responsible for bringing together researchers from across the world and setting the tone of brotherhood. Larry Scott, today a senior scholar of that invisible college, warmly shares the spirit of Tetsuo Nozoe with each of us in the following essay. Jeffrey I. Seeman Guest Editor University of Richmond Richmond, Virginia 23173, USA E-mail: jseeman@richmond.edu
Relevance of apple polyphenols as antioxidants in human plasma: contrasting in vitro and in vivo effects

Apples are a major source of flavonoids in the Western diet, and flavonoid-rich foods may help protect against chronic diseases by antioxidant mechanisms. In the present study we investigated: (1) the antioxidant capacity of representative apple polyphenols and their contribution to the total antioxidant capacity of apple extracts; (2) the effects of adding apple extract to human plasma in vitro on oxidation of endogenous antioxidants and lipids; and (3) the effects of apple consumption by humans on ex vivo oxidation of plasma antioxidants and lipids. We found that the apple-contained flavonols and flavanols, quercetin, rutin, (−)-epicatechin, and (+)-catechin, had a higher antioxidant capacity than the dihydrochalcones, phloridzin and phloretin, and the hydroxycinnamate, chlorogenic acid. However, together these apple polyphenols contributed less than 20% to the total antioxidant capacity of aqueous apple extracts. When human plasma was exposed to a constant flux of aqueous peroxyl radicals, endogenous ascorbate (70.0 ± 10.3 μM) was oxidized within 45 min of incubation, while endogenous urate (375 ± 40 μM) and α-tocopherol (24.7 ± 1.2 μM) were oxidized after ascorbate. Addition of 7.1 or 14.3 μg/ml total phenols of apple extract did not protect ascorbate from oxidation, but increased the half-life (t1/2) of urate from 136 ± 15 to 192 ± 16 and 208 ± 23 min, respectively (p < 0.05 each), and t1/2 of α-tocopherol from 141 ± 18 to 164 ± 8 min (p = ns) and 188 ± 8 min (p < 0.05). Lipid peroxidation started after ascorbate depletion, and addition of apple extract increased the lag time preceding detectable lipid peroxidation from 36.3 ± 3.7 to 50.9 ± 2.7 min (p < 0.05) and 70.4 ± 4.2 min (p < 0.001). However, when six healthy volunteers ate five apples and plasma was obtained up to 4 h after apple consumption, no significant increases in the resistance to oxidation of endogenous urate, α-tocopherol, and lipids were found. Thus, despite the high antioxidant capacity of individual apple polyphenols and apple extracts and the significant antioxidant effects of apple extract added to human plasma in vitro, ingestion of large amounts of apples by humans does not appear to result in equivalent in vivo antioxidant effects of apple polyphenols.
College students' attitudes toward shopping online for apparel products: Exploring a rural versus urban campus

Purpose – To study college students' attitudes toward and behavioral intention of shopping online for apparel products by using the theory of reasoned action.Design/methodology/approach – Focus group interviews and a literature review identified specific items of interest related to the desirability of shopping online for apparel products. A questionnaire was developed and distributed to two groups of respondents: college students who lived in rural and urban areas.Findings – The students, in general, had positive attitudes toward shopping online for apparel products. ANOVA results showed that the students who intended to shop online for apparel products had more positive attitudes than those who did not have the intention. The GLM results showed that internet usage, employment status, and car access had significant influence on students' attitudes toward online shopping for apparel products.Research limitations/implications – The samples for this study were randomly chosen from two universities in the Un...
Metacarpophalangeal Collateral Ligament Reconstruction After Band Saw Amputation: Case Report with Review of MCP Anatomy and Injury

Reconstruction of the radial border of the index metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint after band saw amputation is described. The entire radial MCP collateral ligament unit was cleanly retained within the amputated segment, still attached to wafers of corticocancellous bone from the radial aspect of the metacarpal head and base of the proximal phalanx. Acute bone to bone osteosynthesis of the amputated segment led to successful osseous integration of both bone fragments and restoration of stability of the joint. Surgical repair of the radial collateral ligament of the index MCP joint is crucial in achieving an optimal outcome after such an injury.
Cross-Sectional Regularities in the Response of Stock Prices to Bond Rating Changes

This paper examines whether a firm's stock price response to the new information provided by a bond rating change is related to its net intangible assets. A variable used to measure net intangible ...
Mutagenic analysis of AMP nucleosidase from Escherichia coli. Deletion of a region similar to AMP deaminase and peptide characterization by mass spectrometry

AMP nucleosidase (EC 3.2.2.4) from Escherichia coli and AMP deaminase (EC 3.5.4.6) from bakers' yeast are proposed to regulate cellular AMP levels under allosteric control of the activator ATP and the inhibitor, PO4. Both enzymes contain catalytic sites which bind AMP and regulatory sites which bind ATP. The deduced amino acid sequences of the proteins revealed only one region of homology in which six of eight amino acids are identical. A similar sequence is found in glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase, phoE, ras proteins, RNA polymerase, K(+)-ATPase, nucleolin, and other proteins expected to have nucleotide or phosphate binding properties. In the crystal structure of glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase, this sequence is part of the NAD(+)-binding site. The function of these amino acids was explored with a deletion mutant of AMP nucleosidase. The protein was over-produced in a pTZ construct using the AMP nucleosidase promoter which resulted in approximately 30% of the total protein as the desired enzyme. The mutation was characterized by DNA sequence analysis and by direct analysis of the peptides using high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Deletion of amino acids 128-135, corresponding to DGSELTLD, produced an enzyme with a 20-fold decrease in Vmax but with smaller changes in substrate saturation kinetics, activation by MgATP, inhibition by inorganic phosphate, and inhibition by the tight-binding inhibitor, formycin 5-phosphate. The deletion mutant of AMP nucleosidase exhibits hysteresis in establishing a steady-state rate of product formation which is most pronounced in the absence of MgATP. These results establish that the sequence DGSELTLD in E. coli AMP nucleosidase is not required for binding of AMP, MgATP, or inorganic phosphate. However, the mutant enzyme has a structural defect related to the polymerization state which delays the onset of catalysis and decreases the catalytic efficiency.
Chronic Illness and Disability

Abstract In this paper we describe some of the unique personal, medical, social, and religious challenges facing people living with chronic illness and disability. Our specific focus involves the connections between suffering, healing, and disability in two religious traditions: Buddhism and Christianity. Two core questions focus our inquiry. First, why are chronic illness and disability often associated with merited suffering in Buddhism and Christianity? Second, what types of Buddhist and Christian practice can help cultivate spiritual healing in the midst of chronic conditions?
Considering the Role of the Persistent Organic Pollutants in Diabetic Nephropathy

This journey began with the observation that cross-sectional studies of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and diabetes have shown significant associations, but several longitudinal studies of POPs and diabetes have not [1]. POPs include dioxin, furans, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and organochlorine pesticides. An additional factor was a desire to study the full spectrum of diabetes from pre-diabetes to diabetes complications. I noted in Everett [1], that the association of dioxins, furans, and dioxin-like PCBs with diabetic nephropathy (microalbuminuria and macroalbuminuria) was significant and substantial. My initial thinking was that perhaps this relationship could be exploited in longitudinal studies. Investigating dioxin-like chemicals and diabetic nephropathy further, we came to think the relationship between POPs and diabetic nephropathy was both a case of reverse causality and a risk factor for the condition [2]. As an aside, in the revision of Everett and Thompson [2] we hit upon the use of the natural logarithm of toxic equivalency (TEQ) as a continuous measure of dioxin-like chemicals. This gave us a stable result where before [1] we had a very wide confidence interval. The odds ratio for log-transformed TEQ and diabetic nephropathy was 2.35 (95% CI 1.57-3.52), whereas the odds ratio for log-transformed TEQ and diabetes without nephropathy was 1.44 (95% CI 1.11-1.87). Thinking again about longitudinal studies of dioxin-like chemicals and diabetes, I recommended persons with nephropathy be excluded regardless of their diabetes status. Of note, I estimated 12.1% of persons with pre-diabetes had nephropathy [3]. Assuming a patient goes from pre-diabetes to incident diabetes, there would a substantial number of persons with diabetic nephropathy included if there were no exclusion criteria in such studies. Since 2013, we have also studied the relationship of organochlorine pesticides and pesticide metabolites with diabetic nephropathy. We found both dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) and heptachlor epoxide significantly associated with diabetic nephropathy [4]. These relationships do not appear to be cases of reverse causality. Dioxin, furans and dioxin-like PCBs act through the aryl hydrocarbon receptor pathway, and organochlorine pesticides are thought to act through the constitutive androstane receptor/pregnane X receptor pathway. These disease pathways interact, and the relationships observed for organochlorine pesticides may be due to that interaction. The proportion of the US population with elevated DDT and heptachlor epoxide was 7.2%. When both DDT and heptachlor epoxide were elevated the odds ratio for diabetic nephropathy was
Anthrax from 5000 BC to AD 2010

Anthrax (Latin, a carbuncle) is derived from the Greek (anthrax) meaning coal and referring to the characteristic black eschar in human cutaneous anthrax. Other older names for the disease, such as “ malignant pustule ” or “ black bane, ” and names in other languages, such as charbon (French) and carbonchio (Italian), similarly refl ect these features. Yet other names refl ect other manifestations of the disease in humans and/or animals or its sources of infection, such as woolsorter ’ s/ragpicker ’ s/Bradford disease and the German equivalent Hadernkrankheit (rag disease), splenic fever, Milzbrand (German, meaning “ spleen fi re ” ), Siberian plague, Lodiana fever, and Pali plague in India, and many more. The many names in many languages refl ect the historical and widespread recognition of the numerous features of anthrax before it was understood that they were all manifestations of a single etiological agent. The earliest application of the name “ anthrax ” to the affl ictions caused by Bacillus anthracis is uncertain. “ Bloody murrain ” was probably the most common term for the disease in animals in early English language texts, and carbuncle — or malignant carbuncle to distinguish it from other carbuncular manifestations — was the term used for the cutaneous infection in humans. From a book of 1766, Viljoen (1928) cites “ Visit to your servant girl suffering from a considerable anthrax and found several furuncles on the back; cured same ” but believes that “ anthrax ” at that time was a common term embracing any severe localized dermatitis and this was not a B. anthracis infection. According to Swiderski (2004) , physicians attending George Washington diagnosed as “ an anthrax ” “ a very large and painful tumor ” which developed on his left thigh about 6 weeks after his inauguration as fi rst president of the United States in 1789. However, that description and the description of “ anthrax, or carbuncle ” in the American edition of The Surgeon ’ s Vade Mecum (1813) similarly appear unlikely to have been B. anthracis infections.
A nuclear magnetic resonance rate study of N,N-dimethylformamide complexes with AlCl3, BeCl2, GaCl3, SbCl5 and TiCl4

A nuclear magnetic resonance rate study of complexes of N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF) with AlCl3, BeCl2, GaCl3, SbCl5 and TiCl4 has been carried out. Measurements were made possible by the observation of separate resonance signals for bulk and complexed DMF in all solutions. Rate constants at 290°k varied from 2 sec-1 for the AlCl3. (DMF) n system to about 150 for the BeCl2. (DMF) n solution. Activation energies for the exchange process were also measured for all solutions.
Moduli Spaces of Dirac Operators for Finite Spectral Triples

The structure theory of finite real spectral triples developed by Krajewski and by Paschke and Sitarz is generalised to allow for arbitrary KO-dimension and the failure of orientability and Poincare duality, and moduli spaces of Dirac operators for such spectral triples are defined and studied. This theory is then applied to recent work by Chamseddine and Connes towards deriving the finite spectral triple of the noncommutative-geometric Standard Model.
High resolution electron microscopy of surfaces and surface reactions

A 400 kV high-resolution electron microscope has been used in the surface profile imaging mode to observe surfaces and surface reactions directly in real time. The processes studied include: the formation of surface oxides on Pd and Ag and on In-compound semiconductors; surface reduction and metallization, diffusion and accretion on oxide surfaces; and structural rearrangements in small metal particles. It is concluded that the technique can provide unique information about surface phenomena.
Nocturnal Primates of Kibale Forest: Effects of Selective Logging on Prosimian Densities

To evaluate the potential impact of logging on nocturnal primates, densities ofGalago demidovii, G. inustus, andPerodictus potto were determined in two areas of the Kibale Forest Reserve, Uganda. One of these areas had been logged at a moderate level in the late 1960's, while the second area was relatively undisturbed. The density of the nocturnal primates was lower in the logged area than in the neighboring unlogged area. For the most frequently sighted nocturnal primate,G. demidovii, sightings were spatially clustered both within a year and between years, suggesting that clumped resources and/or social factors were influencing space use.
Transcription factor GATA-1 and Down syndrome leukemogenesis.

Mutations in transcription factors constitute one means by which normal hematopoietic progenitors are converted to leukemic stem cells. Recently, acquired mutations in the megakaryocytic regulator GATA1 have been found in essentially all cases of acute megakaryoblastic leukemia (AMkL) in children with Down syndrome and in the closely related malignancy transient myeloproliferative disorder. In all cases, mutations in GATA1 lead to the expression of a shorter isoform of GATA-1, named GATA-1s. Because GATA-1s retains both DNA binding zinc fingers, but is missing the N-terminal transactivation domain, it has been predicted that the inability of GATA-1s to regulate its normal class of megakaryocytic target genes is the mechanism by which mutations in GATA1 contribute to the disease. Indeed, several recent reports have confirmed that GATA-1s fails to properly regulate the growth of megakaryocytic precursors, likely through aberrant transcriptional regulation. Although the specific target genes of GATA-1 mis-re...
Leyendas monetales, iconografía y legitimación en el califato ḥammūdí. Las emisiones de 'Alī b. Ḥammūd del año 408/1017-1018

This article analyzes the coins issued by 'Alī b. Ḥammūd, the first caliph of the Ḥammūdi dynasty in al-Andalus, in the year 408/1017-1018. Special attention has been given to the analysis of monetary legends and their relation with different aspects of legitimation of the dynasty. The images of fish depicted in one of the series of coins has been studied and a number of hypotheses have been suggested, to provide a deeper knowledge of Ḥammūdi numismatic. Finally, the article includes a catalogue of the coins decorated with fish figures from that year.
Testosterone in juvenile and adolescent male chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes): Effects of dominance rank, aggression, and behavioral style

Testosterone is a steroid hormone with diverse effects on male reproductive function and behavior. The relationship between testosterone and social behavior such as mating and aggression has been investigated in a variety of primate species, but few such studies have been conducted on chimpanzees, and even fewer on primates during the juvenile and adolescent periods. This study explores the relationship between baseline urinary testosterone and behavioral variables including dominance rank, rates of aggression toward peers, and behavioral style in 16 juvenile and adolescent male chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) living at the New Iberia Research Center in Louisiana. Behavioral observations and urine collection occurred during four research periods, each a year apart. After correcting for the positive association between testosterone and age, testosterone was positively associated with both dominance rank and rates of aggression directed at others. It was negatively associated with rates of aggression received. Individuals scoring highest in the "mellow" behavioral style component showed higher levels of testosterone than individuals scoring lowest in this component, an effect that may be partially due to the confounding effect of rank. The results of this study suggest that hormonal changes during the period preceding adulthood are not simply programmed physiological processes tied primarily to age-related change, but that important age-independent relationships with behavior also exist.
Generalized spectral signatures of electron fractionalization in quasi-one- and two-dimensional molybdenum bronzes and superconducting cuprates

We establish the quasi-one-dimensional Li purple bronze as a photoemission paradigm of Luttinger liquid behavior. We also show that generalized signatures of electron fractionalization are present in the angle-resolved photoemission spectra for quasi-two-dimensional purple bronzes and certain cuprates. An important component of our analysis for the quasi-two-dimensional systems is the proposal of a ``melted holon'' scenario for the $\mathbf{k}$-independent background that accompanies but does not interact with the peaks that disperse to define the Fermi surface.
A comparison of knowledge of medical students and practicing primary care physicians about cardiovascular risk assessment and intervention.

Abstract Background. Heart attack and stroke are still prevalent causes of death and disability in the U.S. adult population (1, 2). Studies (3–9) have shown that modification of hypertension, smoking, and hypercholesterolemia can reduce risks for atherosclerosis and subsequent cardiovascular events. Therefore, it is important that physicians be skilled in assessing and modifying patients' overall cardiovascular risk. This study compares acquired knowledge of second-year medical students about cardiovascular risk assessment with knowledge in a selected group of practicing primary care physicians, who are members of the medical school's clinical faculty, using a new experimental testing technique called the tailored response test (TRT). Methods. Students performed a structured cardiovascular risk intervention on a patient in primary care clinics. Their acquired knowledge was then tested using the TRT, which contained 43 discrete judgments about a clinical case. Test scores of students and faculty were compared. Results. Both students and faculty demonstrated knowledge about the most important risk factors, appropriate screening tools, and interventions. However, the selected physicians did not demonstrate knowledge of certain important risk assessment and intervention recommendations, based on national standards. Only 38% of faculty and 27% of students were aware that a “fasting” serum cholesterol is not needed for screening, 30% of faculty believed that if cholesterol was over 300 they would “probably prescribe medicine” before other intervention strategies were tried, and 32% of faculty and 30% of students would order a screening chest X-ray, which is incorrect in the case history. Conclusions. The TRT, in contrast to self-report surveys, demonstrates that important cardiovascular risk assessment and intervention knowledge, with implications for cost effectiveness in health care delivery, has not penetrated to a selected group of physicians who are members of the medical school's clinical faculty and therefore serve as role models for medical students. This is disturbing, in light of current emphases on cost effectiveness in health care. Greater undergraduate curricula and CME emphasis on cardiovascular preventive practice is needed, such that almost 100% of students and faculty demonstrate knowledge, and practice, of preventive medicine according to national standards. In turn, groups developing national standards are enjoined to design and implement effective approaches for disseminating these recommendations.
The Mediating Role of Perceived Interactivity in the Effect of Actual Interactivity on Attitude Toward the Website

ABSTRACTThe purpose of this research is to reconcile seemingly inconsistent findings regarding the effects of interactivity on communication outcomes such as attitude toward the website in two different interactivity research streams (i.e., actual interactivity vs. perceived interactivity) by proposing that perceived interactivity mediates the effect of actual interactivity on attitude toward the website. Empirical evidence supports the mediating role of perceived interactivity. Implications of the findings are discussed in terms of building a theory of interactivity and providing practical insights into interactive advertising and marketing communications.
Resilient children, psychological wellness, and primary prevention

The concept of heightened resilience or invulnerability in young profoundly stressed children is developed in terms of its implications for a psychology of wellness and for primary prevention in mental health. Relevant literature is reviewed, a skeletal model for studying resilience is outlined, and needed research directions are considered. The latter include expansion of the construct's nomological definitional net, inquiry into the antecedents and determinants of resilience, and the application of such generative information to frame preventive interventions for young, profoundly stressed children.
Evaluation of a Conflict Resolution Program for Urban African American Adolescent Girls

Using a pre/posttest design we evaluated the effectiveness of a conflict resolution group on African American girls' attitudes toward violence, perceived likelihood of engaging in violence, and self-esteem. Results indicated that members of the treatment group significantly increased their understanding of how to effectively handle conflict yet no effect was found in their proclivity toward violence or in reported levels of self-esteem.
Contribution of Isoprene Epoxydiol to Urban Organic Aerosol: Evidence from Modeling and Measurements

In a region heavily influenced by anthropogenic and biogenic atmospheric emissions, recent field measurements have attributed one-third of urban organic aerosol by mass to isoprene epoxydiols (IEPOX). These aerosols arise from the gas-phase oxidation of isoprene, the formation of IEPOX, the reactive uptake of IEPOX by particles, and finally the formation of new compounds in the aerosol phase. Using a continental-scale chemical transport model, we find a strong temporal correspondence between the simulated formation of IEPOX-derived organic aerosol and these measurements. However, because only a subset of isoprene-derived aerosol compounds have been specifically identified in laboratory studies, our simulation of known IEPOX-derived organic aerosol compounds predicts a mass 10-fold lower than the field measurements, despite abundant gas-phase IEPOX. Sensitivity studies suggest that increasing the effective IEPOX uptake coefficient and including aerosol-phase reactions that lead to the addition of functiona...
FAST EVENTS IN PROTEIN FOLDING : RELAXATION DYNAMICS AND STRUCTURE OF THE I FORM OF APOMYOGLOBIN

The fast relaxation dynamics of the acid destabilized I form of apomyoglobin (pH* 3, 0.15 M NaCl; apoMb-I) following a laser-induced temperature-jump have been probed using time-resolved infrared spectroscopy. Only a fast, single exponential phase is observed (bleach centered at v = 1633 cm-1 and transient absorbance at 1666 cm-1) with relaxation times of 38 ns at 30 degrees C and 36 ns at 57 degrees C; no additional slow (microsecond) phase is observed as previously found in the native form of apomyoglobin. Folding times of approximately 66 ns are derived from the observed rates based on a simple two-state model. The equilibrium melting of the 1633 cm-1 component shows noncooperative linear behavior over the temperature range studied (10-60 degrees C). The low amide I' frequency, the fast relaxation dynamics, and the noncooperative melting behavior are characteristic of isolated solvated helix. The analysis of the amide-I' band reveals another major component at 1650 cm-1 assigned to native-like structure stabilized by tertiary contacts involving the AGH core, which does not show dynamic or static melting under our conditions. ApoMb-I has generally been taken to be a "molten globule" species. The present results indicate a heterogeneous structure consisting of separate regions of native-like unit(s), solvated helices, and disordered coil, excluding a homogeneous molten globule as a model for apoMb-I. From the current studies and other results, a detailed model of the folding of apomyoglobin is presented.
Replicating Experiments Using Aggregate and Survey Data: The Case of Negative Advertising and Turnout

Experiments show significant demobilizing and alienating effects of negative advertising. Although internally valid, experiments may have limited external validity. Aggregate and survey data offer two ways of providing external validation for experiments. We show that survey recall measures of advertising exposure suffer from problems of internal validity due to simultaneity and measurement error, which bias estimated effects of ad exposure. We provide valid estimates of the causal effects of ad exposure for the NES surveys using instrumental variables and find that negative advertising causes lower turnout in the NES data. We also provide a careful statistical analysis of aggregate turnout data from the 1992 Senate elections that Wattenberg and Brians (1999) recommend. These aggregate data confirm our original findings. Experiments, surveys, and aggregate data all point to the same conclusion: Negative advertising demobilizes voters.