Search

Perpetuating cereal cover crops through self‐seeding may increase adoption by reducing risk and cost. Winter rye (Secale cerealeL.), wheat (Triticum aestivumL.), and triticale (× TriticosecaleWittmack) were used to develop self‐seeding cover crop systems in a soybean [Glycine max(L.) Merr.]–corn (Zea maysL.) rotation. Cereal cover crops were planted in varying row spacing configurations and managed chemically and mechanically to achieve different levels of resource utilization in time and space. The objective of this study was to quantify interspecific competition of self‐seeded winter cereal cover crops growing concurrently with corn. Total weed density responded more to environment than cover crop treatment, with 12.0 and 2.2 weeds m−2in 2005 and 2006. Averaged across species, cover crop treatments lowered corn grain yield 5 to 22% compared with a no cover crop check. The most promising treatment lowered corn grain yield 7 and 11%, which is in the range for previously reported yield reduction using rye cover crops when rye was killed at or immediately after planting in a corn–soybean rotation. Cover crop regrowth intercepted <9% of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) during early growth of corn. Combinations of lower corn plant population density and kernel density in cover crop treatments appear most responsible for the yield reduction. Additional research should focus on reducing interspecific competition during vegetative growth in corn when sink size is being determined.

The article focuses on the use of children as tools of war which reflects a breakdown in a long-held societal taboo. When children did serve in ancient armies such as the enrollment of Spartan children in military training at ages 7 to 9, they typically did not see combat. Demographic changes, global social instability and the legacy of multiple civil and sectarian conflicts entering their second and third generations all act to weaken states and undermine societal structures.

Winter cereal production systems in the northern USA are inefficient with respect to the capture of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) during the year. Our objectives were to determine radiation use efficiency (RUE) in winter wheat (Triticum aestivumL.) and triticale (× TriticosecaleWittmack) at low (67–125 plants m−2), medium (116–170 plants m−2), and high (205–332 plants m−2) plant densities and RUE of interseeded red clover (Trifolium pratenseL.) during two growth periods after cereal harvest. During the linear phase of cereal growth (GS 30–80), RUE averaged across plant density was 3.50 g MJ−1for wheat and 3.21 for triticale in 2004 and 3.37 for wheat in 2006. In 2006, triticale RUE was similar at the low and medium plant density (3.28 g MJ−1) but lower at the high plant density (2.84 g MJ−1). Red clover RUE following wheat and triticale differed by growth period and exhibited varying levels of plant density dependence within growth period. Following wheat at the high plant density, RUE ranged from 1.40 to 1.97 g MJ−1across years and growth periods. Following cereal harvest in mid‐July until early October, red clover interseeded in wheat intercepted on average 65% (2004) and 35% (2006) of incident PAR. The wheat–red clover system was more robust than triticale–red clover for grain RUE and intercepting PAR after cereal harvest.

Diversification of corn (Zea maysL.)–soybean [Glycine max(L.) Merr.] cropping systems can be achieved by incorporating winter cereal grains. Winter cereal grain production systems in the northern USA are inefficient in respect to annual radiation capture because the majority of these fields lay fallow until the following cropping season. The addition of a red clover (Trifolium pratenseL.) intercrop to winter cereal grains can supply forage and provide N to subsequent crops. The objective of this study was to determine the red clover dry matter (DM) and forage quality response to winter cereal species, cereal seeding rate, and red clover seeding rate. Winter wheat (Triticum aestivumL.) and triticale (×Triticosecalespp.) were seeded at 100, 200, 300, and 400 seed m−2in October 2002 and 2003. In March, red clover was frost‐seeded at 300, 600, 900, 1200, and 1500 seed m−2Red clover harvests in late summer, early fall, and the following spring yielded 6.2 to 8.5 Mg ha−1DM. Winter cereal species only affected red clover DM in the following spring of 1 yr. Cereal seeding rates impacted DM within specific harvest periods, but had no effect on seasonal totals or spring DM. Increasing red clover seeding rates increased final DM yield in four of six harvests. Increasing red clover seeding rate had no consistent effect on forage quality. Producers that intercrop red clover in winter wheat or triticale should frost‐seed at 900 to 1200 seed m−2to maximize DM yield.

Applying organic amendments to cropland affects corn (Zea maysL.) response to tillage systems differently. Identifying causes of the tillage by amendment interaction could match amendment inputs to responsive tillage systems. The objectives of this research were to determine if shoot dry matter (DM), nutrient uptake, and soil water use could explain the tillage by compost interaction for corn–grain yield. A corn–soybean [Glycine max(L.) Merr.]–wheat (Triticum aestivumL.)/clover (Trifoliumspp.) rotation, in all phases, with or without compost amendment, was initiated in 1998 in plots that had been managed with moldboard plow (MP), chisel plow (CT), or no‐tillage (NT) since 1988. Compost amendment increased corn whole‐plant P and K uptake 19 and 21%, averaged across 2 yr. No‐tillage increased whole‐plant P uptake 1 yr compared to MP and CT (113 vs. 65 kg ha−1) and increased grain P concentration (3.1 vs. 1.5 g kg−1). Compost provided no benefit (2 yr) or a negative effect (1 yr, 22%) to corn yield in MP. Compost provided no benefit to corn yield in CT. Corn growing in NT derived no benefit (2 yr) or a positive (1 yr, 9%) effect on grain yield from compost amendment. The tillage and compost responses observed in this study cannot be explained by plant N, soil water use, leaf gas exchange, or DM partitioning. Grain yield from soil managed using NT may respond to compost amendment, but reasons for this response remain unclear.

Soil protection and nutrient scavenging benefits of cover crops have been widely reported. Nevertheless, adoption of cover crops in agronomic farming systems is low. Cover crop systems that do not require annual planting may increase adoption. The objectives of this study were to compare self‐seeding and competitiveness of winter wheat (Triticum aestivumL.), triticale (x TriticosecaleWittmack), and rye (Secale cerealeL.) using different planting configurations and management options while growing concurrently with soybean [Glycine max(L.) Merr.]. Cover crops were planted with two or four 19‐cm rows between each 76‐cm soybean row. A no‐cover crop check treatment was also included for comparison. Cover crop species and species × management system interactions were not significant for seed production or soybean seed yield. Averaged across management system, cereals produced 10 656 and 4051 seeds m−2in 2004 and 2005. The two‐row band, no‐chop treatment (2RBNC) produced the most seed (20 347 and 14 511 seeds m−2) in 2004 and 2005, but also lowered soybean yield the greatest (45 and 40%). The four‐row treatment with a late glyphosate band (4RLB) was the least competitive and yielded 3114 and 3717 kg ha−1compared to 4019 and 4391 kg ha−1in the check. Wheat had the greatest self‐seeding, averaging about 31% of the original plant density. The four‐row treatment without a glyphosate band (4RNB) could be used in organic production systems, although additional research is needed to develop less competitive self‐seeding systems for conventional production systems.

AbstractThe marbled murrelet (Brachyramphus marmoratus) is a threatened seabird that nests in old-growth forests in the Pacific Northwest. Despite concern for this species, little has been published on murrelet nesting habitat in the coast redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) region. Here we present the first comprehensive study of marbled murrelet nesting characteristics in redwood forests based on confirmed nest sites. In this study, we 1) described habitat characteristics at 17 murrelet nest sites in the Santa Cruz Mountains, California, USA, located using radiotelemetry and visual searches, and 2) compared nest sites with random sites located in nearby stands and centered on trees =120 cm diameter at breast height (dbh [potential nest trees or PNTs]). All 17 nests were located in stands of old-growth redwood forest and the mean dbh of nest trees was 210 cm (SD = 91 cm). Eighty-two percent of nests (90% of telemetry-found nests) were in unharvested stands and 18%, all on private property, had been lightly harvested but did not contain significantly fewer trees =120 cm dbh than unharvested nest sites. Twelve of 15 (80%) nests for which we were able to locate the nesting platform were on limbs and the remaining 3 (20%), all in redwood trees, were located on broken tops. Nest trees were significantly larger than PNTs and tended to be Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) despite the fact that nest stands were dominated by redwoods, perhaps because of greater nest platform availability in Douglas-fir trees. Nest sites were located closer to streams, had a greater basal area of trees =120 cm dbh, and were located lower on slopes than random sites based on analysis of variance models. We classified 71% of nest sites correctly with a simple logistic regression model that included only nest tree dbh and distance to stream—a model that could be used by managers in the region to identify potentially suitable nesting habitat. Our findings indicated that murrelets in central California, USA, primarily use old-growth redwood stands for nesting but will use partially harvested stands if a significant residual component remains; stands that have experienced some harvest but retain old-growth characteristics should be considered potential murrelet habitat in redwood forests.

Analyzing the current crisis between the U.S. and the Islamic World, the author observes that the U.S. has become isolated by its policies to the detriment of both sides of a building chasm. To win the war of ideas, the author presents an American strategy that recognizes the long-term, generational challenges that must be faced, with concrete suggestions shaped according to the nuances of the Muslim world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Growing winter cereal grain/forage legume intercrops can provide multiple benefits to cropping systems in the North Central USA. Intercropping red clover (Trifolium pratenseL.) with winter cereal grains can provide forage and a green manure crop. Seeding rate recommendations for sole crops may not optimize intercrop system productivity if interactions exist. This study was conducted during the 2002–2003 and 2003–2004 growing seasons to determine optimum cereal grain and red clover forage seeding rates for maximum returns using partial budget analyses. In March, red clover was frost‐seeded at 0, 300, 600, 900, 1200, and 1500 seeds m−2into winter wheat (Triticum aestivumL.) and triticale (X TriticosecaleWittmack) seeded at 100, 200, 300, and 400 seeds m−2the previous October. Triticale and wheat maximized returns at seeding rates of 300 and 400 seeds m−2. No cereal grain by red clover seeding rate interactions were detected for red clover dry matter production (DM). Red clover plant densities after cereal grain harvest were 10 to 22% of the original seeding rates. Red clover DM production and return was maximized at 3.49 Mg ha−1with 900 seeds m−2in 2003 and 6.67 Mg ha−1with 1200 seeds m−2in 2004. Winter cereal/red clover intercrops in the North Central USA can maximize return using a cereal grain seeding rate between 300 and 400 seeds m−2and red clover seeding rates between 900 and 1200 seeds m−2

Frost‐seeding red clover (Trifolium pratenseL.) into winter cereals is a cost effective establishment method. Abiotic effects on seedling establishment have been reported, but information on cultivar differences is lacking. The objectives of this study were to quantify the effect of winter wheat (Triticum aestivumL.) on the establishment, persistence, and forage dry matter (DM) production of 15 red clover cultivars of diverse origin. Cultivars were frost‐seeded near Ames, IA in March of 2003 and 2004 and Prairie du Sac, WI in 2004. Presence of the wheat crop caused 19 and 23% mortality in 2003 and 2004 compared with the no‐wheat treatment in Iowa and 51% mortality in 2004 in Wisconsin. Dry matter yield of diploid cultivars exceeded tetraploids in all environments (439 vs. 559 g m−2). Favorable conditions for germination and emergence in 2003 resulted in high plant densities and no relationship between post‐wheat red clover density and DM yield. In 2004, unfavorable environmental conditions reduced plant densities, creating a relationship between red clover density (x) and DM yield (y) (y = 305 + 8.86x, R2= 0.65 in Iowa; y = 382 + 3.83x, R2= 0.22 in Wisconsin). The southern cultivar Cherokee generally had greater performance than the average northern cultivar. Differences across years and locations were inconsistent for elite and land races. Within different origins and selection histories, large variability exists in cultivar performance. More data are needed to determine if the cultivar‐by‐wheat interaction is important for screening cultivars for dual grain/forage systems.

Membranes of mammalian cells contain lysophosphatidic acid acyltransferase (LPAAT) activities that catalyze the acylation of sn-1-acyl lysophosphatidic acid (lysoPA) to form phosphatidic acid. As the biological roles and biochemical properties of the six known LPAAT isoforms have yet to be fully elucidated, we have characterized human LPAAT-{szligbeta} activity using two different assays. In a membrane-based assay, LPAAT-{szligbeta} used lysoPA and lysophosphatidylmethanol (lysoPM) but not other lysophosphoglycerides as an acyl acceptor, and it preferentially transferred 18:1, 18:0, and 16:0 acyl groups over 12:0, 14:0, 20:0, and 20:4 acyl groups. The fact that lysoPM could traverse cell membranes permitted additional characterization of LPAAT-{szligbeta} activity in cells: PC-3 and DU145 cells converted exogenously added lysoPM and 14C-labeled 18:1 into 14C-labeled phosphatidylmethanol (PM). The rate of PM formation was higher in cells that overexpressed LPAAT-{szligbeta} and was inhibited by the LPAAT-{szligbeta} inhibitor CT-32501. In contrast, if lysoPM and 14C-labeled 20:4 were added to PC-3 or DU145 cells, 14C-labeled PM was also formed, but the rate was neither higher in cells that overexpressed LPAAT-{szligbeta} nor inhibited by CT-32501. We propose that LPAAT-{szligbeta} catalyzes the intracellular transfer of 18:1, 18:0, and 16:0 acyl groups but not 20:4 groups to lysoPA.

Cover crops provide environmental and soil quality benefits, yet their adoption into production agriculture has been limited. This study was conducted to determine the influence of the growth stage and method of rye (Secale cerealeL.) control on soybean [Glycine max(L.) Merr.] development and resource utilization. Fall‐planted rye was controlled the following spring using a stalk chopper (mechanical) or glyphosate (chemical) at the second‐node, boot, and anthesis growth stages near Boone, IA, in 2002 and 2003. Regrowth from mechanical rye control in 2002 depleted soil water until rye matured. Maximum light interception by soybean was reduced by as much as 43 and 30% in chemical and 51 and 23% in mechanical control compared with the no‐rye check in 2002 and 2003. Dry matter (DM) accumulation was reduced by as much as 267 and 907 g m−2in chemical and mechanical control in 2002 compared with the check. In 2003, the range in DM accumulation was 242 g m−2. Rye delayed pod maturity in both years by as much as 7.9 d. Producers who adopt these methods of rye management can expect delayed soybean maturity and reduced DM accumulation.

Investigates the trends that contributed to the increasing active role of children in combat and the threat children pose on the battlefield. Statistics on child soldiers in armed organisations and in armed forces not presently at war; Social implications of the presence of children on the battlefield and its impact on the culture of war; Information on the use of children in various terrorist operations.

Regression analysis of repeated‐measures data from plots in large experiments is both labor intensive and time consuming. When duration estimates characterizing each individual repeated‐measures series are of interest, numerical integrations are possible alternatives. This note evaluates a trapezoidal rule for estimating a wetness duration index that is derived from repeated tensiometer readings of matric potential associated with plots in a recent soybean [Glycine max(L.) Merr.] study. Tensiometer repeated‐measures series were randomly selected from four of the treatments with their replications for a total of 15 plots (of 420 total) associated with a 2‐yr experiment. Regression‐based duration estimates were developed and compared with those derived using an unequally spaced trapezoidal rule. Equivalence between the two estimators was assessed based on multiple statistical analyses. The estimators were virtually identical by all criteria. The numerical method is faster and easier to employ. Furthermore, the concept can be applied to other repeated measurements, and the results may be useful as covariates in other analyses.

Soybean [Glycine max(L.) Merr.] producers in many regions of the USA are confronted with significant yield losses because of crop damage from white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus). Our objectives were to quantify soybean resource utilization and yield responses to variety, row spacing, and simulated repeated biomass removal. Field research was conducted in 2000 and 2001 on a Quakertown silt loam soil (fine‐loamy, mixed, mesic Typic Hapludult) near Pittstown, NJ. Biomass removal during early vegetative and vegetative/reproductive growth extended the soil wetness duration index on average by 1.5 and 2.9 d compared with the control from the 0‐ to 30‐ and 30‐ to 60‐cm soil depths in 2000 and by 5.1 and 2.1 d in 2001. Biomass removal during early vegetative growth delayed pod maturity up to 7 d compared with the control, but biomass removal during reproductive growth hastened pod maturity by as much as 3 d. Averaged across row spacing and biomass removal, variety ‘APK394NRR’ yielded 12 and 24% lower than ‘93B53’ in 2000 and 2001. In 2000, averaged across variety and biomass removal, the 20‐ and 41‐cm row widths yielded 19 and 16% less than the 76‐cm row width. Averaged across variety and row spacing, all biomass removal treatments lowered yield compared with the control except the midvegetative/early reproductive treatment in 2001 (661 vs. 663 g m−2). The greatest yield reductions occurred (up to 89%) when biomass was removed repeatedly during vegetative and reproductive growth. Management implications for soybean producers include variety selection and row spacing to diminish the effects of deer damage.

Developing relationships between seed yield and pod density can be useful for predicting yield loss in soybean [Glycine max(L.) Merr.] damaged by deer (Odocoileus virginianus). The objectives of this research were to (i) develop a modeling tool using differences between biomass removal treatments and controls for pod density and seed yield to quantify yield loss and (ii) assess the tool using double cross‐validation. Model development using linear and polynomial exponential (PE) equations was accomplished using 1998–2001 data from studies examining different biomass removal treatments, varieties, and row spacings. The PE model had a slightly higher coefficient of determination (R2= 0.93) than the linear model (R2= 0.92). Double cross‐validation of both models produced strong relationships with high coefficients of determination and predictive ability; however, the model performance statistics indicated that the PE model had higher coefficients of determination, lower mean bias error, and more robust slope estimates than the linear model. Depending on the end‐user, the simplicity of the linear model should be carefully considered in weighing the benefits of each tool. Nevertheless, these approaches provide robust tools that are not sensitive to moderate abiotic fluctuations, varying cultural practices, and a wide range of temporal biomass removal. Validating the relationship using additional data should be the next step before implementation.

Applying organic matter (OM) amendments to cropland reduces requirements for synthetic fertilizer and may eliminate yield differences between conventional and minimum tillage. The objectives of this research were to determine how tillage and composted swine (Sus scrofaL.) manure affected yield of corn (Zea maysL.), soybean [Glycine max(L.) Merr], and wheat (Triticum aestivumL.) and soil concentrations of OM, P, and K. A corn–soybean–wheat/clover (Trifoliumspp.) rotation, in all phases, was initiated in 1998 in plots that had been managed with moldboard plow (MP), chisel plow, or no‐till since 1988. Moldboard and chisel plow increased corn yield in the first year of the study vs. no‐till. Thereafter, tillage did not affect yield on plots that received compost. Tillage × compost interactions during the last 2 yr of the study increased no‐till compost yield 11% vs. no compost. Soybean yield was similar in no‐till and chisel compost plots during the study period and between MP and no‐till in 3 of 4 yr. Tillage × compost interactions were observed in 2 of 4 yr that increased no‐till compost yield 9% vs. no compost. Averaged across all crops and tillage, compost‐amended soil had 63 g kg−1OM and 164 mg kg−1P vs. 56 and 55 in no compost. Corn and soybean producers can enhance yield with multiple compost applications and eliminate yield differences between conventional and no‐till systems. Nevertheless, compost application for soil OM enhancement must be balanced with P input to minimize the potential for excessive soil P accumulation.

Phosphatidic acid (PA) is a component of cellular membranes that is also a mediator of certain cell signalling functions associated with oncogenesis. These include ras/raf/Erk and Akt/mTor [1-3]. The authors have investigated whether it would be possible to interrupt these known oncogenic pathways through the inhibition of lysophosphatidic acid acyltransferase (LPAAT), an enzyme that catalyses the biosynthesis of PA. The expression and activity of the LPAAT-β isoform are elevated in human tumours, and the respective gene displays transforming capacity when overexpressed in vitro. Inhibition by either genetic means or by isoform-specific small molecules results in a block to cell signalling pathways and apoptosis. Furthermore, the small-molecule inhibitors of LPAAT-β are not cytotoxic to a number of normal cell types, including primary bone marrow progenitors, indicating a differential dependence of tumour cells on LPAAT-β function. These discoveries indicate that LPAAT-β represents a potential novel cancer therapy target.

Nitrogen removal by cool‐season grasses may aid in capturing excess N from animal confinement operations or phytoremediation. Limited information exists on the N dynamics of these grasses near the asymptote of the N response curve. The objectives of this study were to evaluate N removal, residual soil NO3–N, and apparent N recovery in orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerataL.) and smooth bromegrass (Bromus inermisLeyss.) at annual N rates of 224, 448, and 672 kg ha−1Species × harvest interactions were observed in both years, but no species × N rate interactions occurred. Orchardgrass removed 352 and 505 kg N ha−1yr−1at the 448 N rate compared with 207 and 371 in smooth bromegrass in 1999 and 2000, respectively. In a dry year, orchardgrass (r2= 0.41) and smooth bromegrass (r2= 0.31) exhibited linear N uptake. In a year with adequate rainfall, a quadratic relationship was observed for orchardgrass (R2= 0.92), while smooth bromegrass had linear uptake (r2= 0.66). Greater N removal was observed in orchardgrass partly because of superior fall growth, when 99 and 82 kg N ha−1were removed in 1999 and 2000 at the 448 N rate compared with 23 and 15 kg N ha−1in smooth bromegrass. These removal rates accounted for 28 and 16% of the seasonal total in 1999 and 2000 in orchardgrass and 11 and 4% in smooth bromegrass. Orchardgrass N removal exceeded smooth bromegrass in a three‐cut system, and this difference was enhanced by utilizing the fall growth period to capture residual soil N.

Focuses on the use of child soldiers by Iraq's armed forces. Reasons for training and recruiting children in the Ba'athist regime; Child-soldier units in Iraq; Similarities between the Saddam Lion Cubs and the Hitler Youth group of child soldiers; Policy suggestions on dealing with child soldiers.

Poly-α-(l-glutamic acid) (PG) conjugates of 20(S)-camptothecin (1, CPT) displayed improved aqueous solubility compared to CPT, were stable in aqueous solution at neutral pH, and were potent antitumor agents in vivo. Evaluation of PG molecular weight, CPT loading, aqueous solubility, and CPT equivalent dosing with respect to in vivo antitumor potencies of various linked conjugates led to identification of a preferred conjugate composition.

Reaction of N-phenyl-2,5-dimethyl-3,4-diphenylcyclopenta-2,4-dienimine (6) with Ru3CO12 formed two isomers of {[2,5-Me2-3,4-Ph2(η⁵-C4CNHPh)]Ru(CO)(μ-CO)}2 (8-trans and 8-cis). Photolysis of 8 under a H2 atmosphere led to the formation of the aminocyclopentadienyl ruthenium hydride [2,5-Me2-3,4-Ph2(η⁵-C4CNHPh)]Ru(CO)2H (9-H). 9-H reduced benzaldehyde slowly at 75 °C to give benzyl alcohol and 8. Protonation of 9-H with triflic acid produced {[2,5-Me2-3,4-Ph2(η⁵-C4CNH2Ph)]Ru(CO)2H}OTf (11-H), which reacted rapidly with benzaldehyde at −80 °C to give benzyl alcohol and [2,5-Me2-3,4-Ph2(η⁵-C4CNHPh)]Ru(CO)2OTf (9-OTf). Reaction of 9-OTf with H2 and base led to the re-formation of 9-H. These reactions provide the transformations required for a catalytic cycle for hydrogenation of aldehydes.

Determining the extent of change in fresh versus field‐cured grass hay quality, mineral, and NO3‐N concentrations under rain‐free conditions provides valuable information to hay producers. The objectives of this research were to evaluate the effect of fresh vs. field‐cured forage on crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), total digestible nutrients (TDN), P, K, Ca, and NO−3‐N concentrations of orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerataL.), smooth bromegrass (Bromus inermisLeyss.), and timothy (Phleum pratenseL.), and to determine if interactions with N rate exist. At the low N rate in 1999 and 2000, orchardgrass CP in fresh and field‐cured forage, NDF, and TDN concentrations were different. Orchardgrass P and K concentrations were lower in field‐cured compared with fresh forage, but differences were inconsistent across N rates. In contrast, smooth bromegrass K (23 vs. 27 g kg−1) and Ca (4.3 vs. 6.2 g kg−1) concentrations were greater in field‐cured compared with fresh forage in 1999 across N rates. Tissue NO−3‐N concentration was greater in field‐cured orchardgrass at all N rates and at the low N rate in smooth bromegrass in 1999. Interactions between N rate and fresh vs. field‐cured smooth bromegrass were detected for all variables in 1999 and orchardgrass K concentration in 2000. These results demonstrate that changes in grass quality, mineral, and tissue NO−3‐N concentrations occur under rain‐free field curing conditions. Consequently, forage scientists conducting research on grass hay quality indices and mineral content should sample subsequent to field‐curing to provide accurate results.

Gustatory sweating results from a disruption of the auriculotemporal nerve pathways. Damage to the nerve may cause a misdirected re-growth that results in parasympathetic innervation of sympathetic receptors and, therefore, facial sweating and flushing with gustatory stimulation. Over the past 300 years, the history of gustatory sweating has included observations of typhus-induced parotiditis, war injuries, and occupational accidents. Despite religious and personal persecution, Lucja Frey (1889–1943) systematically investigated gustatory sweating. Following the discovery of a German World War II document regarding Lucja Frey, an international committee was organized to research the history of gustatory sweating and of Dr. Frey's contributions to the understanding of the syndrome. Twenty original scientific publications from 1700 to 1950 on gustatory sweating were reviewed. Frey was the first to describe gustatory sweating as a disorder of both sympathetic and parasympathetic innervation. She proposed novel pathologic and pharmacologic mechanisms to explain the syndrome. Subsequent discoveries, including the work of André-Thomas in 1927, have provided a more complete understanding of gustatory sweating and the pathologic mechanism of aberrant neuronal regeneration.

Numerous studies have evaluated growth, stand dynamics, and botanical composition of grass swards separately, but little information is available on the interaction of these factors. The objectives of this study were to determine the response of growth rate, tiller density, and botanical composition in orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerataL.), smooth bromegrass (Bromus inermisLeyss.), and timothy (Phleum pratenseL.) to different N levels. Growth rates ranged from 8.6 to 1.54, 9.14 to 0.67, and 4.19 to 0.29 g dry matter (DM) m−2d−1in orchardgrass, smooth bromegrass, and timothy. Orchardgrass growth rates responded to changes in abiotic conditions, while smooth bromegrass and timothy expressed less plasticity under favorable growth environments. All species exhibited temporal fluctuations in tiller density. Orchardgrass and smooth bromegrass tiller densities were not closely associated with yield, presumably because of compensation in tiller weight. Nitrogen did not affect tiller density during the first production year, but orchardgrass tiller density was influenced by N throughout the second production year, including the fall growth period, when tiller density in all species was affected. Aggressive growth rates in orchardgrass reduced species diversity by 65% by the end of the second production year. Total diversity in smooth bromegrass decreased from 7.2 to 3.5 species 0.25 m−2compared with an increase in timothy from 1.5 to 5.7 species 0.25 m−2due to a combination of slow growth and reduced tiller density. Orchardgrass and smooth bromegrass are superior to timothy in Northeast hay production systems because of greater DM production and less weed competition.

The article discusses why the U.S. should drop a policy that bars openly homosexual persons from serving in the military. The authors note that gays openly serve in the armed forces of several nations including Great Britain and Australia with no ill effect. Craig Jones, a retired officer in the British Royal Navy notes that rules allowing gays to serve were implemented without incident.

This article presents information about the increase in the use of drones, or unmanned planes, by terrorist groups and countries hostile to the United States. The U.S. has been at the forefront of military use of drones, but other countries have begun to develop their own versions. The article suggests that drone technology is becoming available to governments and individuals and the United States should begin developing plans to combat the use of drones to attack the U.S.

Biomass removal effects on soybean [Glycine max(L.) Merr.] light interception and yield under different row spacings have not been documented. Objectives for this study were to evaluate biomass removal, light interception, seed yield, and yield components of soybean under seven clipping treatments. Treatments in this study were clipping at V5, R1, R4, V5 + R1, V5 + R4, R1 + R4, and V5 + R1 + R4, and a control in 18‐ or 20‐cm and 76‐cm rows. In 1998, a dry year, biomass removal exhibited a negative linear relationship with seed yield in narrow rows (r2= 0.62). A row spacing–clipping interaction was observed. In wide rows, clipping at V5 or R1 produced a compensatory response by increasing yield 12 and 5%, respectively. Generally, soybean in 76‐cm rows maintained seed yield by adjusting the number of pods or seed weight, except when clipping occurred at V5 + R4 or at three growth stages. In 1999, under severe moisture stress, row spacing influenced seed yield. Averaged across clipping treatments, narrow rows yielded 16% more (301 vs. 254 g m−2) than wide rows. Generally, soybean yield declined as clipping timing was delayed and as clipping frequency increased in narrow rows, except when clipping occurred at V5 + R1. Clipping at V5 and V5 + R1 did not affect yield in wide rows. All other clipping treatments suffered yield reductions ranging from 20 to 58%. A quadratic relationship (R2= 0.83) was observed between biomass removal and seed yield.

Conjugation of water-insoluble cancer chemotherapeutic drugs to macromolecular polymers can lead to improved pharmaceutical properties and improved therapeutic ratios due to accumulation of the polymer-drug conjugate in tumor tissue through the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) to macromolecules associated with tumor vasculature. Pharmaceutical shortcomings of certain active camptothecins including difficulty in formulation and instability of the active lactone form due to interactions with human albumin might be improved by conjugation to polymers. In this report, conjugations of camptothecin (CPT), 10-hydroxy-CPT, and 9-amino-CPT to poly-(l-glutamic acid) (PG) are described; coupling was accomplished either through the 20(S)-hydroxyl or 9 and 10 substituents with and without the use of a glycine linker. Studies using a PG paclitaxel conjugate (PG-TXL), which is currently in Phase I testing, demonstrated that PG enhanced aqueous solubility, prolonged plasma residence time, and greatly increased the distribution of paclitaxel to tumor tissue in a murine model. In this report, we describe the use of similar conjugation technology for CPT derivatives and demonstrate that these difficult to formulate compounds can be rendered water soluble, that their maximum tolerated doses are increased, and that they retain substantial anti-tumor activity in syngeneic and xenogeneic tumor models. Preliminary data suggest that PG with molecular weights between 37 and 50 kDa with CPT loading between 14 and 37 with or without glycine linkers display enhanced efficacy compared with nonconjugated camptothecins administered at their maximum tolerated dose.

The USDA has a goal of implementing integrated pest management (IPM) practices on 75% of the cropland in the USA so growers may adopt weed control practices that emphasize crop rotation and cultivation. Our objectives were to estimate weed densities in corn (Zea maysL.) and to examine weed emergence in an unmanaged weed area of corn following 4 yr of continuous corn, which received preemergence broadcast herbicides, and following soybean [Glycine max(L.) Merr.]–corn and soybean–wheat (Triticum aestivumL.)/red clover (Trifolium pratenseL.)–corn cropping systems, which received banded herbicides and cultivation, on four farms in New York. More total weeds emerged at two sites and more perennial weeds emerged at all sites in the unmanaged weed area of corn in the soybean–wheat/red clover–corn cropping system compared with continuous corn because of poor red clover establishment, which resulted in a fallow period after wheat harvest. Weed densities in corn averaged 6.3 and 9.9 weeds m−2in the soybean–wheat/red clover–corn cropping system, compared with 1.7 and 1.0 weeds m−2in continuous corn at two of the sites, because of greater weed emergence and unsatisfactory weed control with banded herbicides and a single cultivation in the soybean–wheat/red clover–corn cropping system. When red clover does not establish well, growers should expect increased weed densities in the subsequent corn crop. Growers should then consider fall tillage or herbicide application after wheat harvest, or additional cultivation(s) or herbicide applications in the subsequent corn crop.

Forty-eight patients with chronic myelocytic leukemia, aged 11 to 47, were treated with high-dose cyclophosphamide and fractionated total body irradiation, followed by infusion of marrow from HLA-identical siblings. They were randomized to receive either methotrexate (MTX) (n = 23) or cyclosporine (CSP) (n = 25) as postgrafting prophylaxis for graft-v-host disease (GVHD). All patients had evidence of sustained hematopoietic engraftment. Seventeen of the 25 patients receiving CSP and 17 of the 23 patients receiving MTX are alive between one and almost four (median, 1.7) years, with an actuarial survival rate at three years of 62% and 66%, respectively (P= .60). Also, with respect to most other parameters studied, the two drugs were identical. The probability of acute GVHD was .42 and .46, respectively (P= .70), that of chronic GVHD, .50 and .63 (P= .44), and that of death from transplant-related causes, .30 and .24 (P= .51). There were no differences in the speed of granulocyte and platelet engraftment (P= .82 and .94, respectively), and the duration of hospitalization was comparable (P= .58). Patients receiving MTX required red cell transfusions for a shorter period of time (P= .02), but had a slightly increased morbidity from early oral mucositis. The leukemia recurrence rates were comparable (P= .60). With the regimens used in this study, we conclude that CSP failed to reduce the incidence of GVHD and improve the survival of patients with chronic myelocytic leukemia when compared to results with standard MTX.

The effect of recombinant human granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (rhGM-CSF) was evaluated in 37 patients with marrow graft failure after allogeneic (n = 15), autologous (n = 21), or syngeneic (n = 1) bone marrow transplantation. rhGM-CSF was administered by 2-hour infusion at doses between 60 and 1,000 μg/m2/d for 14 or 21 days. At doses of less than 500 μg/m2, rhGM-CSF was well-tolerated and did not exacerbate graft-versus-host disease in allogeneic transplant recipients. No patient with myelogenous leukemia relapsed while receiving rhGM-CSF. Twenty-one patients reached an absolute neutrophil count (ANC) ≥ 0.5 × 109/L within 2 weeks of starting therapy while 16 did not. None of seven patients who received chemically purged autologous marrow grafts responded to rhGM-CSF. The survival rates of GM-CSF-treated patients were significantly better than those of a historical control group.

The pulmonary effects and fibrogenic potential of intratracheally instilled silicon compounds were evaluated at 3, 7, 74, and 28 days post instillation. Evaluations consisted of examination of lavaged cell populations, as well as biochemical and histologic techniques. Alpha-quartz (SiO2), a known fibrogenic material, caused significant pulmonary toxicity, manifested by pulmonary edema, acute and chronic inflammation, granuloma formation, and fibrosis. An examination of the cell populations recovered from the lavaged lungs of rats exposed to quartz revealed an increase in polymorpho-nuclear leukocytes and macrophages, and a decrease in macrophage viability, when compared to saline-instilled controls. In addition, these lungs had increased hydroxy-proline content. Two commercially prepared, nonfibrous silicon nitride (Si3N4) materials produced minimal pulmonary responses similar to that of glass beads, which were instilled in one group of rats as an inert or nuisance particle control. Although intrac-tracheal instillation of a fibrous Si3N4 powder was only minimally successful in dose delivery, biological activity including granuloma and inflammation was greater then the two nonfibrous Si3N4 powders.

Cyclosporine and prednisone were administered as graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) prophylaxis to nine patients undergoing marrow transplant from HLA matched, unrelated donors. RhGM-CSF was administered at a dose of 250 μμ;g/m2daily to all patients. The median day of neutrophil recovery to 500/mm3was Day 16. Four patients developed Grade II acute GVHD and four developed Grade 111 acute GVHD. One patient, who survived only 25 days, did not develop GVHD at all. One patient developed systemic infection within the first 28 days after marrow infusion. Comparison of these data to a prior series of patients undergoing bone marrow transplant (BMT) from unrelated donors who were treated with rhGM-CSF along with methotrexate and cyclosporine for GVHD prophylaxis suggests that rhGM-CSF is well-tolerated, neutrophil recovery may be earlier but the severity of GVHD does not appear reduced. Selection of the GVHD prophylaxis regimen may affect the hematopoietic response to cytokine therapy. Further trials with rhGM-CSF in patients undergoing BMT from unrelated donors are required.

Phosphatidic acids (PAs) are a molecularly diverse group of phospholipids. Certain species of PA are highly active intracellular signaling molecules associated with cellular activation and mitogenesis. Not surprisingly, the PA species active in signaling are not produced by normal cells under homeostatic conditions. Recently the molecular species of PA associated with specific cellular activating events have been identified and compounds that inhibit the formation of specific PA species have been synthesised. We have characterised four classes of PA not derived from phosphatidylinositol hydrolysis that are involved in intracellularsignaling. PA1 is produced following exposure of cells to lipopolysaccharide, IL-1, hypoxia-reoxygenation, IL-8, or platelet activating factor. Lisofylline, a functional inhibitor of PA1a formation, is in Phase II-III trials as a therapeutic to reduce toxicities of anti-cancer therapies and for cytokine-mediated acute systemic inflammatory conditions. PA1, PA1 and PA2 are produced following binding of the platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) family of cytokines and tumour necrosis factor- (TNF) to their specific receptors. CT-3501, an inhibitor of PA1, and and PA2 formation, suppresses mitogenesis of smooth muscle cells, fibroblasts, and endothelial cells induced by PDGF, fibroblast growth factors (FGF) and vascular endotheiial growth factor (VEGF) as well as expression of certain TNF-induced endothelial cell adhesion molecules. PA3 is associated with signaling by IL-2, CT-2576, a representative PA3 inhibitor suppresses mitogenesis of B- and T-cells induced by IL-2, IL-4, TNF and IL-7. PA4 is produced in normal cells in response to the stimuli that induce PA1. It is constitutively produced in cancer cells. Inhibition of PA4 by CT-2584, a compound which also inhibits PAs 1 and PA2 and PA3, selectively kills malignant cells. Inhibition of PA formation thus appears to be a new target for therapeutic intervention.

The safety, pharmacokinetics, and distribution in tissue of an amphotericin B (AmB)-cholesteryl sulfate colloidal dispersion (ABCD) were compared with those of micellar amphotericin B-deoxycholate (m-AmB). Dogs received 14 daily injections of ABCD (0.6 to 10 mg/kg of body weight per day) or m-AmB (0.6 mg/kg/day). Safety was evaluated by monitoring body weight, hematology, clinical chemistry, and urinalysis during the study and by microscopic examination of tissues at the time of necropsy (day 16). AmB concentrations in plasma were measured in some groups on days 1, 7, and 14 and in necropsy tissue samples. ABCD produced a spectrum of toxic effects in the kidneys, gut, and liver similar to those of m-AmB, but ABCD was eightfold safer than m-AmB. The highest tolerated dose of ABCD (5.0 mg/kg/day) produced effects similar to those of m-AmB (0.6 mg/kg/day). ABCD produced lower concentrations in plasma than an equal dose of m-AmB did. Clearances on days 7 and 14 were higher for ABCD (304 and 295 ml/h.kg) than they were for m-AmB (67 and 53 ml/h.kg). Concentrations in plasma reached steady state after ABCD administration, but they increased after repeated dosing with m-AmB. Diurnal fluctuations in AmB concentrations in plasma were observed 4 to 8 h after the time of dosing. ABCD resulted in lower AmB concentrations in tissue than m-AmB did, except in the reticuloendothelial system. Up to 90% of AmB administered as ABCD was recovered from the liver and spleen on day 16. Reduced drug levels in the kidneys and gut correlated with reduced indications of toxicity in these organs after ABCD administration. Although ABCD increased concentrations of AmB in the reticuloendothelial system, increased toxicity was not observed in these organs.

The effect of (R)-1-(5-hydroxyhexyl)-3,7-dimethylxanthine (CT-1501R; the nonproprietary name for CT-1501R approved by the United States Name Council is lisofylline), an inhibitor of second messenger signaling through phosphatidic acid, on release of endogenous mediators important in the systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) was studied using the human whole blood ex vivoassay system. Human blood was stimulated with various endotoxin preparations, zymosan, or protein A, and the levels of secreted monokines were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. CT-1501R inhibited tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin 1β (IL-1β), and IL-6 release in a dose-dependent manner and was active with all stimuli tested including Salmonellaand Escherichia coli-derived endotoxin, endotoxin from both rough and smooth E. colistrains, as well as zymosan and protein A. CT-1501R inhibited monokine release by approximately 50 at 200 μM and 30 at 50 μM and was independent of the relative potency of stimulus. CT-1501R also inhibited IL-1α or IL-1β induction of either TNF-α or IL-1β and inhibited the synergistic effects of stimulation with both human IL-1β and murine TNF-α on release of human TNF-α. Inhibition of monokine release following stimulation with monokine) was, in general, greater than that achieved with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation. Northern blot analysis showed decreased mRNA accumulation of TNF-α and IL-1β in CT-1501R-treated samples following LPS stimulation suggesting that CT-1501R acts at least in part, at the pretranslational level. In contrast, CT-1501R does not inhibit LPS-stimulated IL-8 or IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra) release in human whole blood or IL-1α-induced release of PGE2in human foreskin fibroblast cells. These data suggest that CT-1501R may be of use for clinical intervention in SIRS.

In order to determine the effect of recombinant human granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor (rhGM-CSF), it has been administered to patients undergoing autologous or allogeneic bone marrow transplant (BMT). Results in patients undergoing antologous or allogeneic BMT indicate that rhGM-CSF is minimally toxic and is associated with reduced morbidity. Trials also indicate that rhGM-CSF may be an acceptable therapy for patients with marrow graft failure since survival appears to improve substantially in patients who received rhGM-CSF compared with historical control patients.

Purpose:To develop a checkpoint-based strategy for preferential radiosensitization of human tumors with deficient and/or mutant p53.

Analysis of protooncogene RNA expression in marrow stromal cells from long-term marrow culture demonstrated high levels of c-abl 5-, 6-, and 7-kilobase (kb) RNA transcripts. In experiments on three independently derived simian virus 40-transformed marrow stromal cell lines, the expression of these c-abl transcripts was further increased in response to recombinant tumor necrosis factor alpha (1000 units/ml) and interleukin 1 alpha (10 units/ml). Although lymphocyte-conditioned medium predominantly up-regulated the 5-kb transcript, interleukin 1 alpha primarily affected the 6-kb transcript. The up-regulation of the 5-kb c-abl message correlated with up-regulation of the granulocyte/macrophage colony-stimulating factor transcript and down-regulation of procollagen I transcripts in transformed cells. These data suggest that c-abl plays roles in the regulation of extracellular matrix expression and in the regulation of hematopoietic growth factors by stromal cells.

When exposed to 5-azacytidine, marrow stromal cells from active long-term marrow cultures and cell lines derived from simian virus 40-transformed stromal cells rapidly upregulated c-abl and interleukin-6 transcripts while downregulating the expression of collagen I, a major matrix protein. Similar effects occurred with interleukin-1 alpha and tumor necrosis factor alpha, although the time course was considerably prolonged.