cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Post‐Fire Control of Invasive Plants Promotes Native Recovery in a Burned Desert Shrubland

Invasive annual grasses have become increasingly important components of desert vegetation in North America. They are especially problematic because they increase the extent, severity, and frequency of fire in desert shrublands that normally experience fire very rarely, or not at all. After fire, invasive grasses and forbs are often dominant and restoration methods are required to promote native plant recovery. Three treatments to control invasive annual grasses and forbs were implemented in the first 3 years following a fire in creosote bush scrub vegetation. Treatments included early season mechanical removal (raking) of all annuals, grass-specific herbicide (Fusilade II), and Fusilade II plus hand pulling of exotic forbs. In the first year, all treatments reduced invasive annual grass abundance by about half but had little effect on native annuals. Treatment effectiveness was minimal in the first year due to low and irregular distribution of rainfall. In the second year, insufficient rainfall prevented the germination of any annual plants and no treatments were applied. In the third year, precipitation onset occurred later in the season and was above average. Although the raking treatment performed poorly, treatments utilizing Fusilade II nearly eliminated invasive grasses and forbs, achieved native annual dominance, and increased native perennial abundance. These results indicate that in the absence of invasive grasses and forbs, the native annual community can be resilient to fire disturbance and native perennials can recover. The results also suggest that burned creosote bush shrublands can be managed after fire to decrease the chance of invasive plant–fire feedback.
The kinetics of penicillin diffusion in serum and middle ear effusions in experimentally induced otitis media

The kinetics of penicillin diffusion in serum and middle ear effusions (MEE) was studied in experimentally induced serous otitis media (SOM) and purulent otitis media (POM) after systemic injection of procaine-penicillin G. A higher rate of diffusion of penicillin into the middle ear cavity was found in POM than in SOM. The time to reach peak concentrations in MEE was also shorter in POM. Elimination of penicillin from the middle ear cavity was slower in SOM than in POM.
Annual occurrence, abundance and diversity of fish in a South Carolina intertidal creek

An intertidal creek in North Inlet Estuary, South Carolina, USA, was sampled monthly for 1 year to determine the occurrence, abundance and diversity of fish species. Sampling was so conducted as to reduce sampling bias to a minimum and all individuals caught were weighed and measured. A total of 16,611 individuals weighing 202.45 kg and comprising 51 species and 25 families of fish was collected. Three diversity indices were calculated for species number. Analysis of variance revealed that season had a highly significant effect on all indices and the number of species, but had no effect on the number of individuals caught.
Evaluation of Orthostatic Hypotension: Relationship of a New Self-report Instrument to Laboratory-Based Measures

OBJECTIVE To compare measured autonomic deficits (composite autonomic severity score [CASS]) with a brief self-report scale we developed to measure severity of symptoms of orthostatic hypotension. PATIENTS AND METHODS Patients were recruited in 2 phases: from August to October 2002 and in April 2004. All patients underwent full evaluation in the autonomic laboratory, from which a CASS of autonomic deficits was derived. Patients also completed the 5-item self-report Orthostatic Grading Scale, which inquires about symptoms of orthostatic intolerance due to orthostatic hypotension (eg, severity, frequency, and interference with daily activities). RESULTS Of 145 patients, 97 (67%) had orthostatic hypotension. The 5-item scale demonstrated strong internal consistency (coefficient a=.91). Patients with orthostatic hypotension had significantly higher scores on each questionnaire item and CASS subscores than those without orthostatic hypotension. The scale items correlated significantly with each of the CASS subscores, maximally with the CASS adrenergic subscore. CONCLUSIONS Orthostatic hypotension is not the only cause of reduced orthostatic tolerance, and some patients may have orthostatic hypotension but be asymptomatic. Results of this study indicate that this 5-item questionnaire is a reliable and valid measure of the severity of symptoms of orthostatic hypotension and that it can supplement laboratory-based measures to provide a rapid, more complete clinical assessment. This questionnaire would also be useful as a brief screening device for orthostatic intolerance to aid physicians in identifying patients who may have orthostatic hypotension.
Orientia tsutsugamushi Ankyrin Repeat-Containing Protein Family Members are Type 1 Secretion System Substrates that Traffic to the Host Cell Endoplasmic Reticulum

Scrub typhus is an understudied, potentially fatal infection that threatens one billion persons in the Asia-Pacific region. How the causative obligate intracellular bacterium, Orientia tsutsugamushi facilitates its intracellular survival and pathogenesis is poorly understood. Many intracellular bacterial pathogens utilize the Type 1 (T1SS) or Type 4 secretion system (T4SS) to translocate ankyrin repeat-containing proteins (Anks) that traffic to distinct subcellular locations and modulate host cell processes. The O. tsutsugamushi genome encodes one of the largest known bacterial Ank repertoires plus T1SS and T4SS components. Whether these potential virulence factors are expressed during infection, how the Anks are potentially secreted, and to where they localize in the host cell are not known. We determined that O. tsutsugamushi transcriptionally expresses 20 unique ank genes as well as genes for both T1SS and T4SS during infection of mammalian host cells. Examination of the Anks’ C-termini revealed that the majority of them resemble T1SS substrates. Escherichia coli expressing a functional T1SS was able to secrete chimeric hemolysin proteins bearing the C-termini of 19 of 20 O. tsutsugamushi Anks in an HlyBD-dependent manner. Thus, O. tsutsugamushi Anks C-termini are T1SS-compatible. Conversely, Coxiella burnetii could not secrete heterologously expressed Anks in a T4SS-dependent manner. Analysis of the subcellular distribution patterns of 20 ectopically expressed Anks revealed that, while 7 remained cytosolic or trafficked to the nucleus, 14 localized to, and in some cases, altered the morphology of the endoplasmic reticulum. This study identifies O. tsutsugamushi Anks as T1SS substrates and indicates that many display a tropism for the host cell secretory pathway.
A local density functional—LCAO method with effective potentials for obtaining the electronic structure of molecules and clusters

Abstract The introduction of effective core potentials into the Xα LCAO method can greatly expand the size of the molecular system which may be feasibly treated. Therefore, we have incorporated norm-conserving effective potentials into this framework, using a gaussian basis set, for calculations of the electronic structure of molecules and cluster models of solids and surfaces. This combined methodology makes possible the determination of equilibrium geometries and certain aspects of potential surfaces required for a large class of electronic structure problems.
Mutations in the HIV type 1 integrase of patients receiving long-term dideoxynucleoside therapy do not confer resistance to zidovudine

Metabolites of AZT can inhibit HIV-1 integrase in vitro (Mazumder A, et al., Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 1994;91:5771-5775). To determine if long-term dideoxynucleoside therapy can lead to the emergence of HIV-1 AZT-resistant variants containing mutations in the integrase, we have sequenced the proviral DNA encoding the HIV-1 integrase of nine HIV-1-infected patients at different time points during treatment. Four of the nine patients developed mutations during the course of treatment. Although most mutations occurred at non-conserved amino acids, one patient developed a mutation at codon (R166T), a residue that is conserved among all integrases from known HIV-1 isolates. This mutation was introduced in the recombinant HIV-1 integrase protein to determine if it could confer resistance to AZT in vitro. We show that the R166T integrase mutant is still proficient at carrying 3'-processing and 3' end-joining but that the enzyme is not resistant to AZT-TP. Our results suggest that it is unlikely that integrase inhi...
Positioning techniques for location‐based services (LBS): characteristics and limitations of proposed solutions

Location‐based services are touted as the ‘killer applications’ of the mobile information revolution. This paper highlights some of the technical characteristics and limitations inherent in current mobile positioning technologies in order to set the current optimism surrounding Location‐Based Services (LBS) in context. A complex technical situation is revealed with different technologies providing results with very different spatial characteristics. Most current terrestrial solutions fail to provide results of sufficiently high spatial resolution for many of the proposed LBS applications, and satellite based solutions suffer from problems of reception and coverage in built up areas. The issue of georeferencing the services themselves is tackled and further work needs to be done on providing accurate spatial locations on the vast array of services that could be available through LBS. A current reluctance to temper these claims could arguably lead to unrealistic raising of the expectations of the buying public. The proven vulnerability of new technology to the fickleness of market opinion highlights that the technology may stand or fall not on its own merits, but on how it matches the expectations of the user.
Relationships among preschool English language learner's oral proficiency in english, instructional experience and literacy development

Thirty-three preschool children who were learning English as a second language participated in 16 weeks of either comprehension-oriented or letter/rhyme-focused small group instruction. Pretests and posttests of book vocabulary, story comprehension, print concepts, letter naming, writing, rhyming, and English oral proficiency were given. Children who participated in comprehension instruction outperformed letter/rhyme children on vocabulary and print concepts. Letter/rhyme instruction children outperformed comprehension children on letter naming and letter writing. English oral proficiency was more strongly correlated with the linguistic comprehension domain of early literacy than with the decoding-related domain. There was clear evidence that children at the very initial stages of English acquisition could learn both linguistic comprehension and decoding-related components of early literacy from explicit small group instruction.
USE OF RAPD MARKERS IN POTATO GENETICS: SEGREGATIONS IN DIPLOID AND TETRAPLOID FAMILIES

The objective of the present study was to evaluate random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) as a source of markers for use in investigations in potato genetics. Segregation of 18 loci in diploidSolanum goniocalyx xS. phureja and 12 loci in tetraploidS. tuberosum ssp.tuberosum ×S. tuberosum ssp.andigena families fitted Mendelian and tetrasomic ratios, respectively. Eight loci in the diploid progeny were arranged in three linkage groups. Segregations of these markers fitting expected ratios indicate that they can be effectively used in potato genetics, breeding and evolution.
Use of active vitamin D sterols in patients with chronic kidney disease, stages 3 and 4

Use of active vitamin D sterols in patients with chronic kidney disease, stages 3 and 4. This paper reviews randomized controlled trials and other reported data on the use of the active vitamin D sterols, such as calcitriol, alfacalcidol, and doxercalciferol, in the management of secondary hyperparathyroidism in patients with mild-to-moderate renal insufficiency (stage 3 or 4 chronic kidney disease). Data on potential benefits, including improved histologic abnormalities of bone from secondary hyperparathyroidism, increased bone mineral density, and a reduction of elevated parathyroid hormone levels, are documented. Consideration is given to the risks of such therapy, which include the production of hypercalcemia, more rapid progression of renal insufficiency, the induction of adynamic bone "disease," and accelerated vascular and soft tissue calcification. The low therapeutic index, or "benefit/risk ratio" of calcitriol and alfacalcidol, the sterols currently licensed for such treatment, is recognized. It is recommended that phosphate-restricted diets, phosphate-binding agents, and oral calcium supplements be given adequate trials before starting calcitriol or alfacalcidol. If PTH levels cannot be controlled by these measures, initial doses of these sterols and the proper surveillance during treatment are given. It is emphasized that the risks of hypercalcemia are likely to increase as the degree of kidney failure worsens. Further research using the "less calcemic" vitamin D sterols is clearly needed.
Ion-Based SAFT2 to Represent Aqueous Single- and Multiple-Salt Solutions at 298.15 K

SAFT2 with individual-ion parameters, referred to as ion-based SAFT2, is used to represent the properties of aqueous electrolyte solutions. A new set of parameters for 5 cations (Li+, Na+, K+, Ca2+, and Mg2+) and 6 anions (Cl-, Br-, I-, NO3-, SO42-,and HCO3-) is obtained from the fitting of the experimental mean ionic activity coefficients and liquid densities of 24 aqueous single-salt solutions at 298.15 K. The ion parameters are universal and transferable to different salts containing the same ion. Because of the peculiar segment energy of K+, a mixing rule with a binary interaction parameter for the segment energy describing the short-range interactions between K+ and other cations is needed. The binary interaction parameter is derived from the osmotic coefficients of chloride solutions. The predictions of the osmotic coefficients, vapor pressures, and liquid densities of single- and multiple-salt solutions including seawater (brine) are found to agree with experimental data.
Effects of nuclear orientation and electron polarization in electro-excitation of nuclei

Abstract The differential cross section for electro-excitation of nuclei and the polarization of the scattered beam are presented for an oriented target and/or polarized incident electrons. The electron states are represented by plane waves. Transitions of arbitrary multipolarity are considered, and both the Coulomb and the transverse parts of the interaction are taken into account. Experiments with aligned targets can be used to determine the reduced nuclear matrix elements contributing to a mixed (E L , M L ±1) transition. The change in the electron polarization vector by inelastic scattering from an unoriented target is discussed in some detail for the cases of pure Coulomb and pure transverse scattering.
The management of pretreated (ragweed) pollen patients during the active season

Abstract 1. 1. The management of adequately protected patients during the pollen season has been evaluated in two groups of patients. 2. 2. In one group, weekly doses were continued throughout the pollen season, whereas in the other, treatment was omitted altogether after August 15. 3. 3. The two groups did equally well as shown by their reports. It is felt, therefore, that in preseasonally treated patients, the continuation of pollen doses throughout the season is of no particular value. 4. 4. Several advantages of discontinuing such treatment have been pointed out.
Flow-thermodynamics interactions in decaying anisotropic compressible turbulence with imposed temperature fluctuations

The fundamental nature of the non-linear flow-thermodynamics interactions in a compressible turbulent flow with imposed temperature fluctuations is investigated. Direct numerical simulations (DNS) of decaying anisotropic compressible turbulence (turbulent Mach number 0.06–0.6) with imposed temperature fluctuations are performed to examine: (i) interactions between solenoidal and dilatational kinetic energy; (ii) partition between dilatational kinetic energy and thermodynamic potential energy; and (iii) redistribution of solenoidal and dilatational kinetic energy among the various Reynolds stress components. It is found that solenoidal kinetic energy levels and return-to-isotropy are weakly dependent on Mach number but independent of imposed temperature fluctuations in the parameter range studied. The dilatational kinetic energy generated is proportional to the square of the pressure fluctuations associated with the initial solenoidal and temperature fluctuations and thus a strong function of Mach number and heat release intensity. The energy exchange between dilatational kinetic and potential energy is driven by a strong proclivity toward equipartition. Consequently, the dynamics of pressure-dilatation (\({\overline{pd}}\)), which is the mechanism of this energy exchange between dilatational and potential energies, is dictated entirely by the requirement to impose energy equipartition. Based on the results, we provide a physical picture of the solenoidal–dilatational–potential energy interactions and the action of pressure-dilatation. The identification of the fundamental precepts underlying the various interactions is of great utility for turbulence closure model development.
Seventeenth-Century English Newspapers and Periodicals

A bibliography of seventeenth-century English newspapers and periodicals that are to be found in the collection in the Rutgers University Library.
Legal issues affecting children with preexisting conditions during public health emergencies

Among the millions of children in the United States exposed to public health emergencies in recent years, those with preexisting health conditions face particular challenges. A public health emergency may, for example, disrupt treatment regimens or cause children to be separated from caregivers. Ongoing shortages of pediatricians and pediatric subspecialists may further exacerbate the risks that children with preexisting conditions face in disaster circumstances. The US Department of Homeland Security recently called for better integration of children's needs into all preparedness activities. To aid in this process, multiple legal concerns relevant to pediatricians and pediatric policymakers must be identified and addressed. Obtaining informed consent from children and parents may be particularly challenging during certain public health emergencies. States may need to invoke legal protections for children who are separated from caregivers during emergencies. Maintaining access to prescription medications may also require pediatricians to use specific legal mechanisms. In addition to practitioners, recommendations are given for policymakers to promote effective pediatric response to public health emergencies.
The Trajectory of REOs in Southern California Latino Neighborhoods: An Uneven Geography of Recovery

Although a rich literature exists on the determinants and effects of concentrated foreclosures, little is known about what drives variation in how long real estate owned (REO) properties take to sell and to whom, particularly in Latino communities heavily affected by the current foreclosure crisis. This research employs multilevel and event history modeling to assess the factors associated with recent REOs’ likelihood of sale, sale to an investor, and sale to a Spanish-surname household in a sample of majority Latino Southern California neighborhoods. Properties in inner-city and exurban Latino neighborhoods with larger black population shares were less likely to sell and more likely to sell to investors if they did, while those located in lower poverty, largely Latino communities were more likely to sell to Spanish-surname households. These results suggest that the crisis is both exacerbating existing patterns of inequality and segregation while enabling Latinos’ homeownership in potentially socioeconomi...
Discrimination of Benign and Neoplastic Mucosa with a High-Resolution Microendoscope (HRME) in Head and Neck Cancer

The efficacy of ablative surgery for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) depends critically on obtaining negative margins. Although intraoperative “frozen section” analysis of margins is a valuable adjunct, it is expensive, time-consuming, and highly dependent on pathologist expertise. Optical imaging has potential to improve the accuracy of margins by identifying cancerous tissue in real time. Our goal was to determine the accuracy and inter-rater reliability of head and neck cancer specialists using high-resolution microendoscopic (HRME) images to discriminate between cancerous and benign mucosa. Thirty-eight patients diagnosed with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) were enrolled in this single-center study. HRME was used to image each specimen after application of proflavine, with concurrent standard histopathologic analysis. Images were evaluated for quality control, and a training set containing representative images of benign and neoplastic tissue was assembled. After viewing training images, seven head and neck cancer specialists with no previous HRME experience reviewed 36 test images and were asked to classify each. The mean accuracy of all reviewers in correctly diagnosing neoplastic mucosa was 97 % (95 % confidence interval (CI), 94–99 %). The mean sensitivity and specificity were 98 % (97–100 %) and 92 % (87–98 %), respectively. The Fleiss kappa statistic for inter-rater reliability was 0.84 (0.77–0.91). Medical professionals can be quickly trained to use HRME to discriminate between benign and neoplastic mucosa in the head and neck. With further development, the HRME shows promise as a method of real-time margin determination at the point of care.
Focusing on the relation: fewer exemplars facilitate children's initial verb learning and extension.

One of the most prominent theories for why children struggle to learn verbs is that verb learning requires the abstraction of relations between an object and its action (Gentner, 2003). Two hypotheses suggest how children extract relations to extend a novel verb: (1) seeing many different exemplars allows children to detect the invariant relation between actions in different contexts (Gentner, 2003), and (2) repetition of fewer exemplars allows children to move beyond the entities involved to extract the relation (Kersten & Smith, 2002). We tested - and 3-year-olds’ ability to extend a novel verb after viewing the repetition of one novel actor compared to four different actors performing a novel action. Both ages were better at learning and extending a novel verb to a novel actor when shown only one actor rather than four different actors. These results indicate that during initial verb learning less information is more effective.
Tracking the R Mc1 Gene for Resistance to Race 1 of Columbia Root-Knot Nematode (Meloidogyne chitwoodi) in Three Mexican Wild Potato Species with Different Ploidies

Resistance to Columbia Root-knot nematode was discovered in three wild species in a polyploidy series, Solanum bulbocastanum (2n = 2x), .S. fendleri (2n = 4x), and S. hougasii, 2n = 6x, respectively. After several generations of introgression into the cultivated gene pool, a single dominant monogene conditioning resistance to root propagation of race 1 of CRKN was theorized to be acting in breeding lines derived from each species. Coincidently, sequence tagged sites (STS) and cleaved amplified polymorphic site (CAPS) markers that associated with resistance with S. bulbocastanum were found to be informative in other segregating breeding populations regardless of the source of the gene. The utility of the markers across ploidies suggests that the original gene and genome of S. bulbocastanum or a modern derivative, is present in S. fendleri and S. hougasii. In this polyploidy series, knowledge that the S. bulbocastanum genome is the original source of useful genes guides future germplasm surveyors to search first and most intensively in the primitive Mexican diploid species that may have served as the contributor of a genome to descendants harboring this genome at higher ploidies.
High throughput screening of a library based on kinase inhibitor scaffolds against Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv.

Kinase targets are being pursued in a variety of diseases beyond cancer, including immune and metabolic as well as viral, parasitic, fungal and bacterial. In particular, there is a relatively recent interest in kinase and ATP-binding targets in Mycobacterium tuberculosis in order to identify inhibitors and potential drugs for essential proteins that are not targeted by current drug regimens. Herein, we report the high throughput screening results for a targeted library of approximately 26,000 compounds that was designed based on current kinase inhibitor scaffolds and known kinase binding sites. The phenotypic data presented herein may form the basis for selecting scaffolds/compounds for further enzymatic screens against specific kinase or other ATP-binding targets in Mycobacterium tuberculosis based on the apparent activity against the whole bacteria in vitro.
Two-dimensional rectangular lattice distributed feedback lasers: A coupled-mode analysis of TE guided modes

Two-dimensional rectangular lattice distributed feedback lasers in a waveguide geometry are described by a coupled-mode analysis of a scalar wave equation derived from a vector field for TE guided modes. A detailed analysis is provided for a two-dimensional grating which allows the method of separation of variables for the scalar wave equation so that the threshold conditions are described by those of two orthogonal one-dimensional gratings. We present the correct definitions of threshold gain and detuning of the two-dimensional distributed feedback laser, and also the optimum design conditions for the minimization of the threshold gain. It is found that there is an optimum structural angle for the given area and periods of the two-dimensional grating. >
Frequency-Weighted Minimum-Variance Adaptive Control of Laser Beam Jitter

This paper introduces a frequency-weighting method for adaptive disturbance rejection. The method constrains the high-frequency gain of the prediction filter in a minimum-variance adaptive controller. In an experimental application, the method is used to control a microelectromechanical system fast steering mirror to suppress laser beam jitter. The paper analyzes the effect of sensor noise on the performance of the adaptive control system and demonstrates that sufficient levels of high-frequency noise and/or disturbance combined with control saturation produce a spiking phenomenon in the output error. The experimental results show that the frequency weighting eliminates the spiking.
The Cyclic Oxidation behavior of Oxide-Dispersed β-NiAl

Short-term cyclic oxidation tests were performed at 1200°C and 1500°C on β-NiAl with 1 vol% oxide dispersions of Y2O3, La2O3 and Al2O3. The Y2O3 addition resulted in a very adherent α-Al2O3 scale at 1200°C, with some improvement in the scale adhesion at 1500°C, compared to an undoped β-NiAl alloy. The La2O3 and Al2O3 additions resulted in more severe oxidation than the undoped β-NiAl at 1200°C. Both Y and La ions are found to segregate to α-Al2O3 scale grain boundaries using scanning transmission electron microscopy/energy dispersive x-ray analysis. However, at both 1200°C and 1500°C, the La addition appears to cause a rapid increase in the isothermal oxidation rate, leading to excessive scale spallation.
Acquisition of Small Rural Hospitals by Multihospital Systems

The occurrence of multihospital systems, two or more hospitals owned, leased, or managed by a separate organization, represents a note-worthy change in the way health care is organized today. The impact of this for small rural hospitals, however, has only been studied indirectly or anecdotally. This investigation, using data from national surveys, systematically documents and analyzes this trend and discusses its potential impact. By 1983 almost one quarter of all small rural hospitals were affiliated with multihospital systems. This growth occurred primarily over the last few years, and was accompanied by a rapid surge in the involvement of for-profit systems. This contrasts sharply with traditional rural hospital care which had been provided primarily by nonprofit or religious institutions. There also were differences in the form of affiliation the hospitals had with their parent organizations, with the most recent movement toward management contracts. Differential changes also occurred in the patterns of affiliation by geographic region.
Repeating Blood Cultures in Neutropenic Children with Persistent Fevers When the Initial Blood Culture is Negative

Background Febrile neutropenia is a common reason for the hospitalization of pediatric oncology patients. The initiation of antibiotics and the overall decline in rates of bacteremia, would predict a low yield of detection of bacteremia in repeated blood cultures. Despite little evidence supporting the utility of serial cultures, repeat culturing with fever persists.
Identification and Quantification of Nicotine Biomarkers in Human Oral Fluid from Individuals Receiving Low-Dose Transdermal Nicotine: A Preliminary Study

The objective of this preliminary study was to identify and quantify potential nicotine (NIC) biomarkers in post-exposure oral fluid samples collected from 10 NIC-abstinent human participants administered 7 mg transdermal NIC using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS-MS). Oral fluid samples were collected prior to NIC patch application and at 0.5 and 0.75 h after patch removal using the Quantisal() oral fluid collection device. The validated LC-MS-MS analyte panel included nicotine-Nbeta-D-glucuronide, cotinine-N-oxide, trans-3-hydroxycotinine, norcotinine, trans-nicotine-1'-N-oxide, cotinine (COT), nornicotine, NIC, anatabine, anabasine, and cotinine-N-beta-D-glucuronide. Analytes and corresponding deuterated internal standards were extracted by solid-phase extraction. NIC and COT concentrations were quantifiable in oral fluid samples collected from 6 of the 10 participants 0.5 h after patch removal and in oral fluid samples collected from 7 of the 10 participants 0.75 h after patch removal. Based on the mean NIC and COT concentrations in oral fluid and plasma for the participants with both quantifiable NIC and COT at the 0.5 and 0.75 h collection times, the oral fluid-plasma ratio was 6.4 for NIC and 3.3 for COT. An ELISA procedure was also validated and successfully applied as a screening tool for these oral fluid samples in conjunction with LC-MS-MS confirmation. An ELISA cut-off concentration of 5.0 ng/mL provided excellent sensitivity for discrimination of COT-positive post-exposure oral fluid samples collected after low-level transdermal NIC exposure and oral fluid samples collected prior to patch application.
Particle size distributions from laboratory-scale biomass fires using fast response instruments

Abstract. Particle size distribution from biomass combustion is an important parameter as it affects air quality, climate modelling and health effects. To date, particle size distributions reported from prior studies vary not only due to difference in fuels but also difference in experimental conditions. This study aims to report characteristics of particle size distributions in well controlled repeatable lab scale biomass fires for southwestern United States fuels with focus on chaparral. The combustion laboratory at the United States Department of Agriculture-Forest Service's Fire Science Laboratory (USDA-FSL), Missoula, MT provided a repeatable combustion and dilution environment ideal for measurements. For a variety of fuels tested the major mode of particle size distribution was in the range of 29 to 52 nm, which is attributable to dilution of the fresh smoke. Comparing mass size distribution from FMPS and APS measurement 51–68% of particle mass was attributable to the particles ranging from 0.5 to 10 μm for PM10. Geometric mean diameter rapidly increased during flaming and gradually decreased during mixed and smoldering phase combustion. Most fuels produced a unimodal distribution during flaming phase and strong biomodal distribution during smoldering phase. The mode of combustion (flaming, mixed and smoldering) could be better distinguished using the slopes in MCE (Modified Combustion Efficiency) vs. geometric mean diameter than only using MCE values.
Coverage based test-case generation using model checkers

Presents a method for automatically generating test cases according to structural coverage criteria. We show how a model checker can be used to automatically generate complete test sequences that provide a pre-defined coverage of any software development artifact that can be represented as a finite state model. Our goal is to help reduce the high cost of developing test cases for safety-critical software applications that require a certain level of coverage for certification, e.g. safety-critical avionics systems that need to demonstrate MC/DC (modified condition and decision) coverage of the code. We define a formal framework which is suitable for modeling software artifacts like requirements models, software specifications or implementations. We then show how various structural coverage criteria can be formalized and used to make a model checker provide test sequences to achieve this coverage. To illustrate our approach, we demonstrate how a model checker can be used to generate test sequences for MC/DC coverage of a small case example.
A Case Study For Accounting Information Systems - A Business Continuity Plan For Protecting Critical Financial Information In The NYC Financial Services Industry

This case study outlines a project launched by the Wall Street West organization, a data redundancy system in Northeastern Pennsylvania which provides backdrop for financial institutions located in New York City. The purpose of this study is threefold. First, the history on the importance of business continuity plans in a post 9/11 world is explored. Second, the Federal Reserve Board, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, and the Securities and Exchange Commission recommendations regarding Disaster Recover, in addition to the requirements of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act, are reviewed. Lastly, an overview of Wall Street Wests effort is provided, looking at some of the strategic advantages to locate in Northeastern Pennsylvania and demonstrating the important resources provided by Wall Street West to protect the nations national security. Conclusions and case use recommendations are presented as this case is ideally suited for use in an Accounting Information Systems course at either the undergraduate or graduate level creating an awareness of the importance of business continuity planning.
Pituitary Hormone Concentrations in Cerebrospinal Fluid in Patients with Pituitary Tumors

Adenohypophyseal hormones are frequently detectable in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of patients with pituitary adenomas,1–9 especially those showing suprasellar extension (SSE).4,6,7 However, documentation of their presence in CSF of normal subjects is controversial. Some workers readily find anterior pituitary hormones in CSF,10,11 while others do not.1,4,6,7,9 It has been proposed that in the normal individual, the blood-brain barrier (BBB) is relatively impermeable to the anterior pituitary hormones and that measurable levels of these substances in the CSF of patients with pituitary tumors indicate a breakdown in the blood—CSF barrier.4,5,8 However, the possibility that adenohypophyseal hormones are normal constituents of CSF, though present below the limits of sensitivity of available assays, is not excluded. Evidence in favor of this view is provided by studies from Linfoot et al.,7 who reported that growth hormone (GH) levels in CSF of acromegalic patients without SSE correlated with the height of the plasma concentration of GH. Similar findings have also been reported for prolactin (PRL).12
Localization of alkaline phosphatase in the histogenesis of cartilage and bone.

1. Meckel's cartilages and the intramembranous sites of ossification in the mandible, tympanic ring, and the anterior process of the malleus of fetal rats between fifteen and twenty days of intrauterine life have been studied with respect to the localization of alkaline phosphatase during the normal differentiation of embryonic mesenchymal cells to osteoblasts and chondroblasts. 2. Alkaline phosphatase appears in the nuclei concurrent with the preliminary condensation of osteogenic mesenchymal cells in the primordium of an intramembranous ossification center. 3. With further differentiation of these osteogenetic precursors to bone-forming cells, the enzynme appears in the nucleoli and in the cytoplasm. At an osteoblastic stage it also appears intercellularly in the osteoid matrix. 4. Mesenchymal cells that have not differentiated in an osteogenetic direction are free of enzymatic activity in contrast to the mesenchymal osteogenic precursor cells. 5. No enzymatic activity was noted during the condensation and differentiation of mesenchymal cells in a chondrocytic direction until hypertrophy of chondrocytes took Place preparatory to ossification. 6. Enzymatic activity was demonstrable in the ossifying anterior portion of Meckel's cartilage but not in its nob-ossifying portion. 7. The preskeletal type of tissue, an internmediate between bone and cartilage, which may also be called secondary or hypertrophic cartilage, occurs in the ramus of the membranous bony mandible. This is a "neomorphic" product in the differentiation of rapidly proliferating osteogenetic on osteoblastic cells in a site of intramembranous ossification. This is well demonstrated by our studies of alkaline phosphatase activity.
Judging Truth: The Contributions of Truth Commissions in Post-Conflict Environments

This chapter reviews current evidence of the impact of truth commissions on transitional and post-conflict society on several potential measures, including human rights and reconciliation among others. In many respects, the question of whether truth commissions do have a substantive impact and, if so, whether it is positive or negative, remains unanswered. The chapter then suggests that one reason for the rapid spread of truth commissions despite the uncertainty as to what they do is that a variety of international actors have become proponents of this form of transitional justice.
Training for Professionals and Nonprofessionals in Alcoholism

All professional workers in the field of mental health are thoroughly taught about the classical types of psychosis and neurosis. Other general health workers in the course of their schooling are also familiarized with these problems. Few people complete medical, social work, psychology, nursing, and similar degrees without learning about schizophrenia, depression, phobias, and the like. Clinical experience is provided on these problems and doctoral dissertations on them have been produced in the thousands. In contrast, training and education on the problem of alcoholism has been sketchy at best and in most cases nonexistent, despite the fact that its prevalence in the United States and throughout the world is extensive.
Allergic sensitization patterns identified through latent class analysis among children with and without asthma.

Abstract Background Specific patterns of allergic sensitization to common allergens may provide relevant clinical insight into asthma risk. Objective To identify patterns of allergic sensitization based on multiple individual allergens and link these to current and persistent asthma using baseline and 3-year follow-up data. Methods Children 7 to 8 years old with (n = 196) and without (n = 136) asthma from the New York City Neighborhood Asthma and Allergy Study were studied. IgE against a panel of 112 antigens was measured using the ISAC multiplex panel array. Latent class analysis (LCA) was used to identify patterns of allergic sensitization among the 26 most common allergens against which children had measurable IgE. The association between patterns of allergic sensitization and risk of asthma and other allergic diseases was examined. Results LCA identified 4 patterns of allergic sensitization as follows: low risk of sensitization (prevalence of 53% in children with asthma and 76% in children without asthma), indoor (prevalence of 23% in children with asthma and 15% in children without asthma), pollen and indoor group 1 (prevalence of 16% in children with asthma and 5% in children without asthma), and pollen and indoor group 2 (prevalence of 9% in children with asthma and 4% in children without asthma). Compared with the low risk of sensitization pattern, children belonging to the 3 sensitized patterns had significantly higher risk of asthma at ages 7 to 8 years and 3 years later, with the highest risk for children in the pollen and indoor group 1 pattern. Conclusions LCA facilitates the study of sensitization profiles to a large number of common allergens. Analyzing patterns of allergic sensitization from multiple allergens reveals additional relevant associations with asthma than the study of a single allergen or total IgE.
Foraging Behavior of Some Winter Birds of Deciduous Woods

popular exercise, yet all too often work ceases with a simple list of differences between more or less similar, coexisting species. More general treatments are relatively rare (but see, e.g., Cody 1968) and yet are essential if we are to understand the basis of community composition and organization and if we are to relate field and laboratory information to the more theoretical discussions presented by Hutchinson and MacArthur (1959), Schoener (1965), Selander (1966), and others. Of special import are comparative studies of different communities (a variety of habitats, taxonomic groupings, trophic levels, etc.) with respect to the magnitudes and kinds of differences among distinct phenotypic categories, be they species, sexes, or whatever, and to the variation within each phenotypic category. With quantities of these kinds of data in hand, it may then be possible to approach with empirical models the question of the regulation of species (and phenotypic) diversity. The present paper is the first of a projected series dealing with problems of comparative niche segregation and variations in avian species diversity. Since the paper deals only with one woodland, comparative aspects are limited to a consideration of intersexual differences in foraging behavior.
Host Effects on Developmental and Reproductive Traits in Fall Armyworm Strains (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

Two host strains of the fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith), specializing on corn (corn strain) or forage grasses and rice (rice strain), were reared on bermudagrass and corn to assess larval performance and the correlation between performance and adult fitness traits. Traits measured included larval weight and duration, pupal weight and duration, survival to adulthood, adult longevity, preoviposition period, oviposition period, fecundity, percentage of hatch, and number of progeny. None of the immature stage traits were correlated with adult traits for either strain. Specifically, pupal weight was not correlated with number of progeny produced. A quantitative genetic analysis indicated genetic control of larval but not adult traits; however, variation was not additive. The rice strain was more affected by larval host than the corn strain and performed better on its preferred host, bermudagrass, than on corn. However, larval performance on the 2 hosts is not mirrored by host specificity in nature. The rice strain is more specialized physiologically but occurs in both habitats in nature, whereas the corn strain is less specialized physiologically but rarely occupies both habitats. Thus, host-plant specialization is likely mediated by behavioral traits in adults rather than physiological ones in larvae.
Potential bleaching effects on coral reproduction

Bleaching profoundly impacts coral reproduction, often for years after an event. However, detailed reproductive characteristics of coral after bleaching have not been broadly described, especially as they relate to cryopreservation. Therefore, in the present study we measured several reproductive characteristics in coral in Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, for two species, namely Fungia scutaria and Montipora capitata, during the bleaching period of 2014 and 2015. We examined spawning periods, egg morphometry, sperm concentration, fresh and cryopreserved sperm motility exposed to different concentrations of dimethyl sulfoxide, time of first cleavage, larval survival with fresh and cryopreserved spermatozoa, infection success and settlement success. Many of these reproductive parameters were reduced in 2015, especially sperm motility. Once the reduced-motility spermatozoa from 2015 post-bleach were cryopreserved, there was a steep decline in post-thaw viability and this would prevent any substantive further use of these samples in reproduction for conservation benefit. Worldwide, as bleaching events become more frequent, the ability to bank and conserve coral ex situ may be significantly reduced. Thus, it is imperative that while genetic diversity is still high in these populations, intensive efforts are made to bank coral species during non-bleaching periods.
Analysis of data from Luoyang injury surveillance system among the elderly, 2006-2012

Objective To analyze the injury characteristics among the elderly using the data from Luoyang injury surveillance hospitals which could be the evidence for injury prevention strategy development in Luoyang. Methods Injury information of first-visit patients in three hospitals in Luoyang were collected by using the national injury surveillance report card. Results A total of 8114 cases were collected during 2006 to 2012. Male cases were less than female, the proportion was 0.98:1. The three leading causes of injuries were fall(41.5%), road traffic injury(27.2%), and blunt injury(9.5%). Fall of injuries in each age group was increasing with the growth of age(χ2=35.7, P0.01). The major place where injuries occurred was road/street(38.5%) and home(37.0%). Most injuries occurred during May to October. Recreation activities(50.9%) was the first leading activity when injuries took place. Head was the most injured part(40.0%). Most injury cases were unintentional(89.7%). Most of the injuries were minor ones(45.1%) and medium ones(43.6%). And 46.0% of patients needed to be in hospitals or transferred to other hospitals. Conclusions Injury surveillance provides the professional and policy makers with the comprehensive data of injuries among the elderly to develop, implement and evaluate injury prevention strategies in Luoyang.
Secretory Organelles: I The Endomembrane System

Within many active cells there exists an extensive system of organelles, which, while consisting of membranes of various forms, are not enclosed by such structures. The two generally recognized types of this endomembrane system, as it has been called (Morre et al., 1971; Moire and Ovtracht, 1977), may be closely associated or more or less isolated from one another and, being unrestrained by an enclosure, vary widely in size, form, and location between tissue types as well as with the activity of a particular cell at a given moment. The two kinds of organelles, currently known as the endoplasmic reticulum and the Golgi apparatus, are alike involved in secretion, a term that will be found to cover a great diversity of cellular functions. In some cases, these two organelles are so closely associated that they are difficult to distinguish except by cytochemical techniques. Such intimate associations are currently referred to as GERL, the letters of which acronym respectively refer to Golgi, endoplasmic reticulum, and lysosomes, the latter a secretory vesicle that is given attention in the following chapter along with others of a similar nature. When used correctly as a collective term, the acronym is of occasional value, especially in discussions of cellular conformations of these membranous structures whose proper identification has not been firmly determined.