cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Wildfire and post-fire erosion impacts on forest ecosystem carbon and nitrogen: An analysis

Many ecosystem processes occurring in soils depend upon the presence of organic matter. Soil organic matter is particularly important for nutrient supply, cation exchange capacity, and water retention, hence its importance in long-term site productivity. However, wildfires consume large amounts of aboveground organic material, and soil heating can consume soil organic matter. In almost all ecosystems throughout the world, greater quantities of carbon (C) and associated nutrients such as nitrogen (N) are found belowground than aboveground In grasslands, savannas and tundra-covered areas, much greater quantities of organic C (>90%) are found in the underground plant parts and decomposed organic matter than aboveground. In forest ecosystems, C is more evenly distributed aboveground and belowground (e.g. temperate deciduous and boreal forests). In general, soils with larger proportions of organic matter in the aboveground biomass and on their forest floors are more prone to wildfire-caused disturbances in their nutrient and C regimes than those in which most of the C in the ecosystem is located belowground. Overall effects of wildfire on soil C and N are a function of fire temperatures, severity, and frequency. A metaanalysis By Johnson and Curtis (2001) on the results of 13 fire studies (mixture of wildfire, routine prescribed fire, and site preparation fire) completed between 1975 and 1997 showed that the C and N contents of both the A-horizon and the underlying mineral soil layers change only a small amount (<10%) in the long-term. These results agreed with the conclusions of a previous review (Johnson, 1992) that indicated the overall effect of fire was not significant although there was a significant effect of time since fire. Although small changes in soil C and N occurred in the soils during these studies, substantial amounts of both organic litter and duff (100% in high severity fires) were consumed during these fires, especially high severity areas of the wildfires. Erosion of mineral soil is a major concern after high-severity wildfires. After wildfires, restoration activities are aimed at reducing erosion that might adversely affect water resources and site productivity. Despite many concerns and expensive treatments to reduce soil loss, erosion of mineral soil, most common after high severity fires, actually adds little to total C and N losses from forest ecosystems since combustion alone can produce 90% removal of C and N in the upper 7.5 cm of mineral soil. Organic matter and N losses from the forest floor and surface mineral soil could have a lasting effect on the long-term productivity and sustainability of forest sites, particularly when they occur on nutrient-deficient sites. This paper examines a number of studies around the world, contrasting C and N losses due to combustion and erosion processes and estimating risk to ecosystem productivity.
Genomics Articles: New Inroads

In my July 1998 editorial, I outlined how THE PLANT CELL would be covering and tracking progress in the field of genomics. I am pleased to be able to say that the journal has been extending the range of research articles that it publishes to include a wide spectrum of papers that encompass genomics
The importance of short term exposure of C3H 10T1/2 cells to polycyclic hydrocarbons: evidence for hydrocarbon-mediated anticarcinogenic activity.

Abstract Since it has been shown that transformation frequencies (TF) of cultured mammalian cells exposed to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) reach a maximum with increasing PAH concentration and then decline, we have examined TF in C3H 10T 1 2 CL8 ( 10T 1 2 ) cells as a function of an additional parameter of treatment, length of exposure. A 15-min exposure to either benzo[a]pyrene (BP) or 3-methylcholanthrene (3-MC), at concentrations ranging from 0.3 to 10 μg/ml, was sufficient to induce transformation suggesting that, in 10T 1 2 cells, non-induced enzymes of the cytochrome P-450 system are involved in the metabolic activation of PAH. At lower BP concentrations (0.3–1.25 μg/ml), TF generally increased with exposure time; at higher BP concentrations (2.5–10 μg/ml) maximal TF were achieved with 3 h of exposure. For 3-MC, maximal TF occurred at 0.5–1 h with a concentration of 10 μg/ml and at 1–6 h with lower concentrations. Moreover, low TF were obtained after 12-h and 24-h exposures to 10 μg/ml BP or 3-MC. These results show that TF depend on both the length of exposure and concentration of PAH. Since both BP and 3-MC are extensively metabolized to polyoxygenated derivatives and conjugates, we suggest that certain metabolites may be anticarcinogenic or antipromoting agents. The identities of such metabolites are yet to be determined.
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and State Accountability

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) channeled billions of dollars through the states in an effort to stimulate the economy and shore up faltering state services. It presented unprecedented accountability expectations in the form of required state transparency with regard to ARRA expenditures. This study examines the variations in state responses to ARRA accountability expectations and analyzes state characteristics associated with greater accountability efforts. There is considerable variability in state ARRA accountability reporting but no apparent underlying pattern to the variability, which seems to be largely unaffected by political or other characteristics of the states. The study reveals that most states could have done a much better job of informing their citizens about how ARRA funds were spent and what was accomplished with those funds.
A CYTOCHEMICAL AND ELECTRON MICROSCOPIC STUDY OF THE THUMB PAD IN RANA PIPIENS.

Abstract The epidermis and the mucous gland of the thumb pad of male Rana pipiens were studied by histochemical and electron microscopic methods. During the breeding season the epidermis of the thumb thickens and becomes highly papillated while the mucous glands beneath increase enormously in size. The outer two-thirds of the epidermis reacts positively for alkaline phosphatase, acid phosphatase, alpha naphthol esterase, monoamine oxidase, succinic dehydrogenase and cytochrome oxidase. The mucous glands were found to consist of two different cell types. Most numerous are the typical secretory cells that give positive histochemical tests for alkaline phosphatase, acid phosphatase, alpha naphthol esterase but are unreactive for succinic dehydrogenase and cytochrome oxidase. Electron microscopic studies of these cells reveal typical secretory granules closely associated with the endoplasmic reticulum. The second cell type is nonsecretory that gives a strong positive reaction for succinic dehydrogenase and cytochrome oxidase and contains a rich complement of mitochondria.
Recalling the 1960s: The new left and social movement criticism

THE SIXTIES: YEARS OF HOPE, DAYS OF RAGE. By Todd Gitlin. New York: Bantam Books, 1987, pp. 513. $19.95. IF I HAD A HAMMER: THE DEATH OF THE OLD LEFT AND THE BIRTH OF THE NEW LEFT. By Maurice Isser...
Politics and the development of the Hungarian non-profit sector

One of the important developments in post-Communist Hungary has been the growth of the voluntary or non-profit sector. Under the Communist regime, voluntary associations were controlled and independent organisations were largely suppressed. During the 1980s, advocacy groups and independent associations emerged to challenge the Communist monopoly on organisation. These challenges were instrumental in laying the foundation for the post-Communist non-profit sector, providing models of organisation and experienced activists. After the creation of a new legal framework in 1989 and 1990, the growth of the non-profit sector was dramatic. Two types of non-profit organisations have developed in democratic Hungary: associations predominate in membership activities, while foundations are active in fields requiring fund-raising. Attempts by the Hungarian Democratic Forum-led government to shape the non-profit sector to meet its goals were met with political pressure from professionals in the non-profit sector. The result was the beginnings of a contract-for-service regime and increased organisation of a contract-for-service regime and increased organisation of interests within the non-profit sector itself.
Global HIV prevalence: the good news might be even better

WHO and UNAIDS are to be commended for their adoption of improved HIV surveillance approaches including recognition of new methods such as the Demographic and Health Surveys- Plus (DHS+) national household surveys. Yet the good news from Geneva - that the number of people living with HIV is lower than previously estimated— might portend an even more favourable outlook. Compared with estimates based primarily on antenatal surveillance results of geographically representative representative population-based surveys such as the DHS+ which also sample men and non-sexually active and other non-pregnant women have all indicated lower prevalence rates. For example findings of DHS+ surveys undertaken in 2003–04 showed: 6.7% adult HIV-1 prevalence in Kenya versus the previous WHO/ UNAIDS 2001 estimate of 15.0%; 1.5% in Burkina Faso versus the 2001 and 2003 estimates of 6.5% and 4.2% respectively; and 2.0% in Ghana versus the 2003 estimate of 3.1%. (excerpt)
Fast-neutron interaction with collective cadmium nuclei

Abstract Differential neutron-scattering cross sections of elemental cadmium are measured from ∼ 1.5 to 10 MeV. From ∼ 1.5 to 3.0 MeV the measurements are made at ∼ 100 keV incident-neutron energy intervals and at 10 scattering angles distributed between ≈ 20° and 160°. From 3 to 4 MeV the measurements are made at ∼ 200 keV intervals and 20 angles. Above 4 MeV the interval is ∼ 0.5 MeV with ⩾ 40 differential values at each energy, distributed between ∼ 18° and 160°. Differential cross sections for the excitation of observed “levels” at 0.0 (elastic), 0.589±0.047, 1.291±0.066 and 1.839±0.057 MeV are determined, with attention to the direct excitation of the yrast 2+ levels of the even isotopes, and of the 3 2 + and 5 2 + levels of the odd isotopes. Optical-statistical, dispersive-optical and coupled-channels interpretations are carried out and comparisons made with “global” parameters. Consideration is given to the fundamental nature of the real potential in the vicinity of the Fermi surface with implications on the equation of state and the reduced mass.
The Effects of Equine Somatotropin on Pituitary and Testicular Function in the Stallion During the Nonbreeding Season

An experiment was conducted to determine the effects of equine somatotropin on the reproductive axis of the stallion during the nonbreeding season. Adult stallions were treated with equine somatotropin (20 μg/kg body weight [BW]; n = 5) or saline (n = 4) daily for 21 days starting in January. During the last week of treatment, stallions were subjected to low- and high-dose injections of luteinizing hormone (LH), as well as low- and high-dose injections of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH). Two months after the onset of somatotropin treatment, semen was collected from all stallions every other day for 14 days. Treatment with equine somatotropin increased (P .1) on concentrations of LH, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), or testosterone. The testosterone responses to injections of LH were similar (P > .1) between treatments. Likewise, the LH, FSH, prolactin, and testosterone responses to the injections of GnRH/TRH were similar (P > .1) between groups. At seminal collections, stallions treated with somatotropin exhibited greater volumes of gel-free semen (P < .01) and gel (P < .05) and had decreased time until ejaculation (P < .05). In conclusion, somatotropin treatment for 21 days may alter the long-term accessory gland contribution to seminal volume but does not appear to alter pituitary gonadotrope function or testicular testosterone secretion.
Parse's Research Methodology with an Illustration of the Lived Experience of Hope:

Research traditions unique to the discipline of nursing are beginning to grow; there are now several extant research methodologies unique to nursing science. This paper sets forth one nursing research methodology and discusses the relationship of ontologies to methodologies in building research traditions. The nursing methodology presented here evolved from the theory of man-living-health. It is a hypothesis-generating qual itative methodology congruent with the ontology. Although there are many similarities with qualitative methodologies used in other disci plines, this method focuses on lived experience of health and leads specifically to the concepts of the nursing theory in the analysis process. The entities for study are universal lived experiences of health as defined in the man-living-health theory. The focus is on the study of the human being's participative experience in cocreating health. The processes of the method, participant selection, dialogical engagement, extraction- synthesis, and heuris...
Protein Kinase C-δ and Mitogen-Activated Protein/Extracellular Signal–Regulated Kinase-1 Control GLI Activation in Hedgehog Signaling

One third of all lethal cancers are associated with excessive activation of the Hedgehog (HH) pathway by mutations of its signaling components or by increased responsiveness of cells to the HH ligand. HH signaling through the GLI transcription factors leads to increased cell proliferation by up-regulation of the extracellular regulated kinase (ERK) pathway and by expression of S phase cyclins. In this study, we have tested the hypothesis that the HH pathway can integrate ERK signaling to modulate the activity of GLI. Using NIH 3T3 cells, we show that phorbol esters, acting through protein kinase C-delta (PKCdelta) and mitogen-activated protein/extracellular signal-regulated kinase-1 (MEK-1), fully stimulate the transcriptional activity of endogenous and overexpressed GLI proteins, as assessed by GLI-luciferase reporter assays, and induce the expression of endogenous GLI1 and PTCH-1 target genes, as assessed by reverse transcription-PCR. Moreover, activation of GLI elicited by Sonic Hedgehog also requires PKCdelta and MEK-1 function. Remarkably, coexpression of activated MEK-1 and GLI1 or GLI2 induced a 10-fold synergistic increase in GLI-luciferase activity that was totally blocked by PD98059. The NH(2)-terminal region of GLI1 (amino acids 1-130) is required for sensing the ERK pathway, as deletion of this domain produces active GLI1 protein with greatly reduced response to activation by MEK-1. Basic fibroblast growth factor activation of the ERK pathway also stimulated GLI1 activity through its NH(2)-terminal domain. Our results identify PKCdelta and MEK-1 as essential, positive regulators of GLI-mediated HH signaling. Furthermore, our findings suggest that tumors with deregulated HH and ERK synergize to stimulate cell proliferation pathways.
Aggregation Using the Fuzzy Weighted Average as Computed by the Karnik–Mendel Algorithms

By connecting work from two different problems-the fuzzy weighted average (FWA) and the generalized centroid of an interval type-2 fuzzy set-a new alpha-cut algorithm for solving the FWA problem has been obtained, one that is monotonically and superexponentially convergent. This new algorithm uses the Karnik-Mendel (KM) algorithms to compute the FWA -cut end-points. It appears that the KM -cut algorithms approach for computing the FWA requires the fewest iterations to date, and may therefore be the fastest available FWA algorithm to date.
Understanding cardiac anatomy : the prerequisite for optimal cardiac surgery

If advances in cardiac surgery are to continue into the twenty-first century, it will be necessary to concentrate on details of matters such as the anatomy of the heart. This will be achieved best when anatomy is described as it is observed. This approach is obscured when words are used in inappropriate fashion, or else assigned a function separate from their everyday meaning. Examples of how the congenitally malformed heart and the normal heart have been described in the past are examined within the framework of using words in their vernacular meaning. Suggestions are made to improve descriptions and understanding for the 21st century. Using the example of the "univentricular heart", it is shown how conventions debarring ventricular status to discrete chambers within the ventricular mass are, of necessity, artificial. Similar examples are used to distinguish septal from parietal structures within the heart and to elucidate the structure of some congenital malformations. For values, it is shown how proper description requires assessment of these structures in their closed as well as their open positions. Understanding of cardiac anatomy, truly a prerequisite for successful cardiac surgery, will be facilitated in future if words are used in their generally accepted sense, and if artificial conventions are avoided.
Production Lot Sizing in a Class of Batch Process Flow Shops

This paper develops a production lot sizing model for a class of batch process flow shops under deterministic conditions. These flow shops are characterized by unit batch transfers between successive work stations, lot-for-lot input item delivery and the possibility of multiple externally procured input items at any work station during the manufacturing process. In formulating the model, the effects of work-in-process inventories resulting from processing at a finite rate at each work center are explicitly taken into account. The concepts developed are illustrated through a simple numerical example.
Is there a Lateral Transfer Distance that Minimizes Twisting and Lateral Bending Motions of the Spine

Studies have shown that twisting and lateral bending postures and motions increase the risk of low back disorders in manual handling tasks (Marras et al., 1993; Punnet et al., 1991). These motions are often associated with asymmetric lifting. Thus, it has been hypothesized that one means for controlling these motions is through carefully designing the layout of the workplace. We hypothesized that spatially separating a lift's origin and destination to encourage stepping/turning of the body during a manual transfer task would reduce these motions. At the same time, however, the added distance may increase the tendency to reach, therein increasing the amount of forward bending, increases handling time, and may increase the physiologic cost. Thus, the objective of the current study was to determine if there is a separation distance between a lift's origin and destination during the lateral transfer of boxes that minimizes the lateral bending and twisting motions on the spine while not increasing the amount o...
Evolution of the Actin Gene Family in Testate Lobose Amoebae (Arcellinida) is Characterized by Two Distinct Clades of Paralogs and Recent Independent Expansions

The evolution of actin gene families is characterized by independent expansions and contractions across the eukaryotic tree of life. Here, we assess diversity of actin gene sequences within three lineages of the genus Arcella, a free-living testate (shelled) amoeba in the Arcellinida. We established four clonal lines of two morphospecies, Arcella hemisphaerica and A. vulgaris, and assessed their phylogenetic relationship within the ‘‘Amoebozoa’’ using small subunit ribosomal DNA (SSUrDNA) genealogy. We determined that the two lines of A. hemisphaerica are identical in SSU-rDNA, while the two A. vulgaris are independent genetic lineages. Furthermore, we characterized multiple actin gene copies from all lineages. Analyses of the resulting sequences reveal numerous diverse actin genes, which differ mostly by synonymous substitutions. We estimate that the actin gene family contains 40–50 paralogous members in each lineage. None of the three independent lineages share the same paralog with another, and divergence between actins reaches 29% in contrast to just 2% in SSU-rDNA. Analyses of effective number of codons (ENC), compositional bias, recombination signatures, and genetic diversity in the context of a gene tree indicate that there are two groups of actins evolving with distinct patterns of molecular evolution. Within these groups, there have been multiple independent expansions of actin genes within each lineage. Together, these data suggest that the two groups are located in different regions of the Arcella genome. Furthermore, we compare the Arcella actin gene family with the relatively well-described gene family in the slime mold Dictyostelium discoideum and other members of the Amoebozoa clade. Overall patterns of molecular evolution are similar in Arcella and Dictyostelium. However, the separation of genes in two distinct groups coupled with recent expansion is characteristic of Arcella and might reflect an unusual pattern of gene family evolution in the lobose testate amoebae. We provide a model to account for both the existence of two distinct groups and the pattern of recent independent expansion leading to a large number of actins in each lineage.
An approximate closed form solution for pressure and velocity distribution in the cathode chamber of a PEM fuel cell

In this paper, an approximate technique is used to obtain pressure and velocity distribution in the cathode chamber of PEM fuel cells. The technique is based on polynomial profile approximation. The technique predicts two dimensional pressure and velocity distribution in closed form as a function of independent variables. The approximate solution developed compares reasonably with the rigorous numerical solution.
Subcentennial-scale climatic and hydrologic variability in the Gulf of Mexico during the early Holocene

the interval from 10.5 to 7 thousand calendar years before present from paired analyses of Mg/Ca and d 18 Oo n foraminiferal calcite. The sea surface temperature record based on foraminiferal Mg/Ca contains six oscillations and an overall � 1.5� C warming that appears to be similar to the September–March insolation difference. The d 18 O of seawater in the GOM (d 18 OGOM) record contains six oscillations, including a � 0.8% excursion that may be associated with the ‘‘8.2 ka climate event’’ or a broader climate anomaly. Faunal census records from three GOM cores exhibit similar changes, suggesting subcentennial-scale variability in the incursions of Caribbean waters into the GOM. Overall, our results provide evidence that the subtropics were characterized by decadal- to centennial-scale climatic and hydrologic variability during the early Holocene.
Specific contributions of histone tails and their acetylation to the mechanical stability of nucleosomes.

The distinct contributions of histone tails and their acetylation to nucleosomal stability were examined by mechanical disruption of individual nucleosomes in a single chromatin fiber using an optical trap. Enzymatic removal of H2A/H2B tails primarily decreased the strength of histone–DNA interactions located ∼±36 bp from the dyad axis of symmetry (off-dyad strong interactions), whereas removal of the H3/H4 tails played a greater role in regulating the total amount of DNA bound. Similarly, nucleosomes composed of histones acetylated to different degrees by the histone acetyltransferase p300 exhibited significant decreases in the off-dyad strong interactions and the total amount of DNA bound. Acetylation of H2A/H2B appears to play a particularly critical role in weakening the off-dyad strong interactions. Collectively, our results suggest that the destabilizing effects of tail acetylation may be due to elimination of specific key interactions in the nucleosome.
2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin alters the differentiation pattern of human keratinocytes in organotypic culture.

Abstract Human exposure to the environmental toxin 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) produces a severe skin pathology known as chloracne. In these studies we employed a three-dimensional, organotypic model system to study the effects of TCDD on human skin. This model uses the spontaneously immortalized human keratinocyte cell line NIKS and recapitulates both the three-dimensional microenvironment and epithelial–mesenchymal interactions found in intact human skin. Treatment of the organotypic cultures with TCDD causes alterations in the pattern of keratinocyte terminal differentiation. Analysis at both the light and electron microscope levels reveals a fully differentiated cornified layer in TCDD-treated organotypic cultures at earlier time points than observed in vehicle (dimethyl sulfoxide)-treated controls. Furthermore, TCDD-treated organotypic cultures exhibit aberrant distribution of several differentiation-specific protein markers. Basal cells in TCDD- and DMSO-treated organotypic cultures show no differences in proliferation as measured by quantification of 5-bromo-2′-deoxyuridine (BrdU)-positive nuclei. No aberrant BrdU uptake was detected outside of the basal layer. Neither TUNEL labeling nor immunohistochemical staining with an antibody to active caspase-3 revealed increased apoptosis in TCDD-treated organotypic cultures relative to controls. These data clearly indicate that TCDD modulates homeostasis in a model of human stratifying epithelium independent of changes in proliferation and apoptosis, exclusively by impacting keratinocyte terminal differentiation. This TCDD-induced effect on differentiation-specific proteins results in profound changes in the tissue architecture.
Integrated Management of Tomato Bacterial Spot

Bacterial diseases of plants play an important role in the world’s agriculture by reducing yield and marketability of particular crops or by limiting their production in areas with environmental conditions conducive for disease development. Plant pathogenic bacteria present many obstacles in developing efficient plant protection practices. In spite of technological advances, there is no bactericide that can be efficiently used for control of plant bacterial diseases. Due to lack of adequate chemical based bactericides plant pathologists constantly search for alternatives and possibility for their integration with preventive measures in order to develop sustainable disease control strategy. Tomato bacterial spot management currently relies on use of pathogen-free seed and transplants, elimination of volunteer tomato plants, resistant cultivars, and frequent application of a copper-based bactericides. However, these practices are ineffective in regions where hot and humid weather favor spread of the pathogen and development of the disease. Novel technologies, such as application of systemic acquired resistance inducers and use of biocontrol agents integrated with conventional practices, represent new quality in plant protection and provide increase in efficiency of the disease management.
Fifty Ways to Estimate the Number π

The number π has been defined in a rather abstract form so far: we have shown that sin and cos are periodic functions and that their period is defined to be 2π. In this chapter we will use several methods to estimate the number π. Estimating π is important for applications (it appears in all kinds of mathematical formulas in geometry, physics, probability, and so on) and also from a theoretical point of view. What is this number? More generally, what is a number? What is its exact value? Why do we need approximations?
An eight-year review of legal cases related to an urban 9-1-1 paramedic service.

Introduction An eight year retrospective analysis was conducted to determine the type and outcome of lawsuits related to the provision of 9-1-1 paramedic service in an urban environment. Methods For the evaluation period of May 1986 to March 1994, all litigation cases related to Ambulance Service or paramedics were collected and analyzed. This urban 9-1-1 Paramedic Service has an estimated call volume of > 60,000 assignments resulting in > 30,000 patient encounters during the evaluation period. Results Seven lawsuits were filed against the service. No lawsuits were related to tardy response, failure to transport, or patient care negligence of any kind. All of the litigation was related to motor vehicle collisions (MVC). Conclusions The data suggest that motor vehicle collisions are a significant medical-legal risk to the EMS community. In addition, it was found that the use and lack of use of seatbelts was an important component in many of the suits.
Cybernetics: A Means for Analysis of Neural Networks

Commonsense approaches to an understanding of “higher function” are useful but, as we have seen, are basically introspective. Such approaches could be ill advised if used analytically because of their intrinsic susceptibility to errors, particularly those of the type illustrated in Fig. 6.6. Other, more objective means must be found to analyze the complex integrative functions of neural networks. As our knowledge of anatomically and physiologically based memory and learning advances, so must our expression of this knowledge. The form of this improved expression is likely to be mathematical and as specific as expression of our modern knowledge of genetics and the genetic codes. The purpose of this chapter is to explore some of the forms that are likely to serve for expression of our knowledge of memory and learning.
Abstract TMP43: Ischemic Stroke Hospitalization Rates by State and Age

Background: Medicare data show regional differences in stroke hospitalizations for older patients, but data on regional patterns for younger patients are limited. We assessed geographic patterns of ischemic stroke hospitalizations rates by state for younger and older U.S. adults. Methods: Ischemic stroke hospitalizations (ICD-9 433, 434, 436) were identified using the Nationwide Inpatient Sample of the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP) for 2007-2008. Rates were expressed per 100,000 person-years (P-Y) with state-level age- and sex-specific Census data as a denominator. A hierarchical random effects Poisson model estimated state-specific risk-adjusted rates, adjusting for age-sex and applying HCUP sampling weights. Bootstrapping simulation was used to obtain interval estimates of rates for each state and age group (18-64 and 65+). Rates were categorized as being significantly higher, no different, or significantly lower than the national average based on their interval estimates. Results: More than half of strokes in older patients occurred in women (54.4%) compared to 43.5% in younger patients. The prevalence of many comorbidities (COPD, HF, HTN, and renal failure) was expectedly higher for older patients, but the prevalence of diabetes was higher in the younger group (36.2% vs. 30.5%, p Conclusion: Geographic patterns of hospitalization were moderately different for younger and older patients with ischemic stroke. Understanding factors contributing to regional heterogeneity may help target areas in need of improved stroke prevention interventions.
A Benchmarking Algorithm for Maximum Bottleneck Node Trust Score-based Data Gathering Trees in Wireless Sensor Networks

The author proposes a benchmarking algorithm to determine maximum bottleneck node trust score-based data gathering trees MaxBNT-DG trees for wireless sensor networks WSNs wherein the bottleneck node trust score of a path minimum trust score for any node on the path, including those of the end nodes from any node to the root node of the DG tree is the maximum. He compares the performance of the MaxBNT-DG trees with that of the maximum bottleneck link weight-based data gathering trees MaxBLT-DG trees for which the bottleneck link trust score minimum trust score for constituent links of a path from any node to the root node is the maximum. The author observes the MaxBNT-DG trees to incur a smaller tree diameter, a larger percentage of nodes as leaf nodes and a larger trust score per intermediate node; whereas, the MaxBLT-DG trees incur a lower aggregation delay, indicating a trust-aggregation delay tradeoff in WSNs. The MaxBNT-DG algorithm is also generic and can be extended to any other node criterion like residual energy, wake-up frequency, etc
On Counting Mitotically Dividing Cells in the Blood of the Cockroach, Periplaneta orientalis (Linn.)

Although cell divisions in insect blood have been described by Hollande1 and others, few quantitative counts apparently have been reported. This is a preliminary report of blood cell counts in P. orientalis, especially mitotically dividing cell (M.D.C.) counts. Large nymphs were used.Method. Antennal blood is taken into a pipette, made to handle 1.22 mm.3 blood, and rapidly diluted; a total count is obtained with a hemocytometer. A small drop of the antennal blood is placed also in a larger drop of diluting fluid on a slide, immediately stirred to prevent cell coagulation, covered with a coverslip, and rimmed with oil to prevent evaporation. The cells are randomly counted (oil immersion) and the % M.D.C. determined. The diluting fluid consists of 0.081 M NaCl, 0.002 M KCl, 0.001 M CaCl2, 0.005% Gentian Violet, 0.125% glacial acetic acid.Results. Some of the counts obtained are in Table I. Groups I and II include normal animals. In Group I only anaphases and telophases, while in Group II prophases, metapha...
Poeta en el Paseo: Tato Laviera|[rsquo]|s Chicago plays

This essay explores the collaboration and plays that emerged from the partnership between Nuyorican poet and playwright Tato Laviera and the Batey Urbano youth group in Chicago’s Paseo Boricua Community. Working with community members whose own personal histories have been affected by the events represented in the dramas, Laviera forms the basis for elaborating a depth hermeneutics. Furthermore, challenging traditional criticism that has confined Nuyorican literature within tropes of nostalgia, Laviera engages political discourse and experience through the transformative aesthetics of the Nuyorican writers. The plays document a 40-year period of the history of the Puerto Rican community in Chicago and a community’s defiant reterritorialization through storytelling and history-making.
Development of a ReaxFF Potential for Carbon Condensed Phases and Its Application to the Thermal Fragmentation of a Large Fullerene

In this article, we report the development of a ReaxFF reactive potential that can accurately describe the chemistry and dynamics of carbon condensed phases. Density functional theory (DFT)-based calculations were performed to obtain the equation of state for graphite and diamond and the formation energies of defects in graphene and amorphous phases from fullerenes. The DFT data were used to reparametrize ReaxFFCHO, resulting in a new potential called ReaxFFC-2013. ReaxFFC-2013 accurately predicts the atomization energy of graphite and closely reproduces the DFT-based energy difference between graphite and diamond, and the barrier for transition from graphite to diamond. ReaxFFC-2013 also accurately predicts the DFT-based energy barrier for Stone–Wales transformation in a C60(Ih) fullerene through the concerted rotation of a C2 unit. Later, MD simulations of a C180 fullerene using ReaxFFC-2013 suggested that the thermal fragmentation of these giant fullerenes is an exponential function of time. An Arrheni...
Generational Replacement and the Growth of Incumbent Reelection Margins in the U.S. House

Virtually all congressional scholars investigating the rise of incumbent safety in the U.S. House have assumed that the responsible cause, regardless of its specific nature, is one which has affected incumbents generally. The sole exception is Fiorina, who speculates that increased overall safety results from recent freshmen's greater electoral strength. The analysis performed here confirms this generational replacement hypothesis. Much greater vote gains have resulted from the freshman term of incumbency since 1966–68, while no pro-incumbent trend for veterans has surfaced.
Mucins in Barrett’s Esophagus: A Histochemical Study

Abstract To define the mucin secretion of Barrett's esophagus, 132 biopsy specimens from 37 patients were studied with histochemical stains for mucins. Columnar mucous cells contained largely neutral mucins, but scattered cells in over 70% of the biopsies also produced sialomucins and sulfomucins. Goblet cells contained sialomucins, sulfomucins, or both. The distribution and relative proportions of mucins varied considerably among biopsies and among patients. Barrett's esophagus histochemically represents a heterogeneous, partially differentiated epithelium analogous to incomplete intestinal metaplasia of gastric mucosa.
Time-Lapse Change in Near-Surface Shear-Wave Velocities Caused by Rainfall and Large Earthquakes Detected by Applying Seismic Interferometry to Earthquake Data

Shear-wave velocity is an indication of the shear strength of the ground since the velocity is related to the shear modulus. Therefore, monitoring the velocities is useful for site characterization and disaster prevention. We estimate the time-lapse change in shear-wave velocity as well as shear-wave splitting in the shallow subsurface throughout Japan by applying seismic interferometry to the data recorded with KiK-net, a strongmotion network in Japan. Each KiK-net station has two receivers; one is on the surface and the other is in a borehole. Using seismic interferometry, we extract the shear wave that propagates between these two receivers. Because KiK-net has continuously recorded strong motion seismograms since the end of 1990s, the data are available for time lapse measurements. After the Tohoku-Oki earthquake, the shear-wave velocity decreases about 5% in a region 1200 km wide and anisotropy increases more than 10%. From seasonal averages, we find the velocity and precipitation have a negative correlation.
Some Aspects of Inbreeding in Derived Tetraploids of Potatoes

Diploid (2n = 2x = 24) potato (Solanum) species that produce 2n gametes, by either first division or second division restitution mechanisms, are being widely used in potato breeding programs to enhance the genetic diversity of the tetraploid potato (S. tuberosum L.). initial biometrical modeling of tetraploid X diploid hybridizations in potatoes has revealed complex genetic relationships between diploid parents and their tetraploid offspring. Three breeding schemes are presently used by potato breeders to transfer genetic material from diploid parents to their tetraploid offspring: 2n gamete-producing diploids may be crossed directly to the tetraploids; haploids (2n = 2x = 24) may be extracted from the tetraploids and crossed to the diploid species parent to form a haploid-species hybrid that is then crossed to the tetraploid; or 2n gamete-producing diploids may be crossed to each other. I have determined the inbreeding coefficient for tetraploids derived by any of these three breeding strategies. These inbreeding coefficients are complex functions of the coancestry of the parents, the inbreeding of the parents, the coefficient of double reduction in the tetraploid parent, and the frequency of single exchange tetrads in the diploid parent(s), and they depend on the mechanism of 2n pollen formation.
Assessing the sensitivity of avian species abundance to land cover and climate

Climate projections for the Midwestern United States predict southerly climates to shift northward. These shifts in climate could alter distributions of species across North America through changes in climate (i.e., temperature and precipitation), or through climate-induced changes on land cover. Our objective was to determine the relative impacts of land cover and climate on the abundance of five bird species in the Central United States that have habitat requirements ranging from grassland and shrubland to forest. We substituted space for time to examine potential impacts of a changing climate by assessing climate and land cover relationships over a broad latitudinal gradient. We found positive and negative relationships of climate and land cover factors with avian abundances. Habitat variables drove patterns of abundance in migratory and resident species, although climate was also influential in predicting abundance for some species occupying more open habitat (i.e., prairie warbler, blue-winged warbler, and northern bobwhite). Abundance of northern bobwhite increased with winter temperature and was the species exhibiting the most significant effect of climate. Models for birds primarily occupying early successional habitats performed better with a combination of habitat and climate variables whereas models of species found in contiguous forest performed best with land cover alone. These varied species-specific responses present unique challenges to land managers trying to balance species conservation over a variety of land covers. Management activities focused on increasing forest cover may play a role in mitigating effects of future climate by providing habitat refugia to species vulnerable to projected changes. Conservation efforts would be best served focusing on areas with high species abundances and an array of habitats. Future work managing forests for resilience and resistance to climate change could benefit species already susceptible to climate impacts.
An Atypical Presentation of a Thalamic Stroke in a Young Adult with Ankylosing Spondylitis and an Atrial Septal Defect.

th leading cause of death in the United States, due in large part to advances in the prevention of cerebrovascular disease risk factors, such as cigarette smoking, diabetes, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia and better acute treatments, such as IV tPA and the development of stroke centers. However, ischemic stroke remains a leading cause of longterm disability worldwide. The annual incidence for young white and black adult populations (less than 45 years old) is estimated to be 3.4 to 11.3 per 100,000 and 22.8 per 100,000, respectively. 1-3 While 40% of strokes in young patients are cryptogenic, common risk factors include untreated microvascular diseases (i.e. hypertension, diabetes), dissection of blood vessels (accounting for about 10–25% of early AIS), and illicit drug use. 4-6 A prothrombotic state, characterized by genetic thrombophilia, Protein C deficiency, antiphos pholipid antibodies, elevated lipoprotein(a), Factor V Leiden mutation, prothrombin gene mutation, MTHFR TT genotype have been associated with venous thromboembolism, but not clearly with AIS. 9-10 Arterial dissection, often precipitated by trauma, is still considered as the most common vascular abnormalities in young adults with AIS; non-traumatic, spontaneous dissection occurs at a reduced frequency and can be associated with connective tissue disorders such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and Marfan syndrome. 8-11 CASE REPORT A 23-year-old man was brought to the ED by his elderly grandparents reporting 4 days of profound fatigue, headache, and a subjective sensation of the right corner of his mouth being “pulled to the side” when he talked. The patient reported he recently participated in a body building competition 5 days prior to the ED presentation, with 2 months of rigorous training that involved diet, exercise, weight loss, but without any anabolic steroid use. He reported newonset memory deficits, occasionally forgetting events that occurred earlier during the day, generalized weakness, and a 5 out-of-10, gradually developing dull frontal headache that began shortly after the competition. The patient’s past medical history was notable for ankylosing spondylitis for which he started taking etanercept (TNFα inhibitor) 5 years earlier. The patient went to an urgent care center 2 days prior to the ED presentation, where he was diagnosed with dehydration and discharged home after being given 1 liter of IV normal saline. The patient subsequently returned to the ED due to persistent symptoms. On arrival to the ED, he was afebrile with blood pressure 110/60 mm Hg and pulse rate 64 beats/min. There were no focal neurological deficits ; he was alert and oriented x4, and he did not demonstrate any memory deficits. Complete blood count (CBC), comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) -reflex, urinalysis, drug
Benign and Malignant Mesenchymal Tumors

Mesenchymal tumors of the breast demonstrate differentiation towards the non-epithelial components of the breast, including the vasculature, adipose tissue, smooth muscle, nerve sheath elements, and stromal myofibroblasts. The neoplasms can be benign or malignant and morphologically resemble their counterparts in other soft tissue sites. The hamartomatous lesions are disorganized proliferations of the normal mesenchymal components admixed with the breast epithelial component. Here, we will review the features of mesenchymal tumors encountered on breast core needle biopsy, including the following diagnostic entities: lipoma, angiolipoma, hibernoma, leiomyoma, hamartoma, nodular mucinosis, myofibroblastoma, pseudoangiomatous stromal hyperplasia, fibromatosis, dermatofibroma, granular cell tumor, neurofibroma, schwannoma, and primary breast sarcoma (leiomyosarcoma, liposarcoma, fibrosarcoma, osteosarcoma, malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor, undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma, and dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans). Vascular lesions of the breast will be discussed in a separate chapter.
Pinkie , the First Viable Germline Hypomorph Allele of Retinoid X Receptor Alpha, Reveals an Important Role for RXRa in Th2 Development.

Pinkie is a recessive ENU-induced mutation, homozygotes develop premature graying and subsequently, progressive alopecia. Histologically, the skin is characterized by the destruction of hair follicle architecture, formation of dermal cysts and appearance of black papules throughout the ventral skin late in life. The Pinkie mutation was mapped to the retinoid X receptor alpha ( Rxra ) locus (chromosome 2) on 700 meioses and positionally cloned. As a component of the nuclear receptors for retinoic acid and other bioactive molecular ligands, RXRa plays an irreplaceable role during embryogenesis and a null allele of RXRa invariably causes embryonic lethality. Pinkie, which results from the amino acid substitution N273I in the ligand-binding domain, is the first viable germline hypomorphic mutation of RXRa. Transfection studies suggest that the abnormal protein retains only 10 to 20% of the activity of the wild type receptor. Pinkie homozygotes develop a progressive phenotype, part of which entails a severe, age-dependent imbalance of Th1/Th2 differentiation upon antigenic challenge. When immunized with ovalbumin (OVA), pinkie homozygotes displayed markedly decreased IgG1 levels in serum as compared with normal C57BL/6 mice; in vitro OVA re-stimulation of pinkie splenocytes causes greatly enhanced IFN-g production and decreased IL-4 production. Upon MCMV infection, pinkie homozygotes showed significantly higher type I interferon levels in serum than normal C57BL/6 mice. The in vitro differentiation of naive CD4 T cells demonstrated skewed Th1 development in pinkie mouse compared to that of C57BL/6 control animal. However, real-time PCR didn’t reveal significant difference in mRNA level of GATA-3 and T-bet, which are believed to be critical transcription factors in Th1/Th2 development. These data collectively imply that RXRa is required for Th2 development. This requirement might reflect an influence of RXRa on the expression of pertinent transcription factors (e.g., GATA-3, T-bet), cytokines (IL-4, IFN-gamma) and/or cytokine receptors that are involved in Th1/Th2 differentiation. RXRa represents a likely interface between the nutritional environment and the immune status of the host. Consumption of retinoids and vitamin D may therefore be expected to influence the development of the allergic/atopic (Th2) phenotype, and provide a plausible explanation for the increasing frequency of atopic disease observed in developed countries.