cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Social and Psychosocial Determinants of Health Associated With Uncontrolled Diabetes in a Federally Qualified Health Center Population

Purpose. Many people with diabetes have difficulty achieving glycemic targets, and social and psychosocial determinants of health may influence their ability to obtain glycemic goals. The objective of this study was to identify characteristics independently associated with A1C >9% or untested A1C compared to those with A1C ≤9% at a federally qualified health center. Methods. This retrospective cohort study included people with a diagnosis of diabetes, who were 18–89 years of age and had a medical evaluation from a primary care provider between 1 September 2016 and 31 August 2017. The primary outcome was to identify characteristics associated with an A1C >9% or untested A1C compared to those with an A1C ≤9%. Results. Of 6,185 patients meeting inclusion criteria, 2,965 (48%) had uncontrolled A1C. In the uncontrolled A1C group, 1,549 patients (52%) were female, 1,296 (44%) preferred care in a language other than English (1,273 [43%] in Spanish), and 535 (18%) had a concurrent mental health diagnosis. Multivariable logistic regression of 4,774 patients with complete data revealed that poor appointment adherence (odds ratio [OR] 3.24, 95% CI 2.30–4.57) and/or a positive Patient Health Questionnaire-2 depression screen (OR 1.35, 95% CI 1.12–1.62) had an increased risk of being in the uncontrolled A1C group. Patients with a prescription for antidepressant medication were more likely to be in the controlled group. Conclusion. Poor adherence to appointments and presence of depressive symptoms were associated with high A1C values. Interventions can be developed targeting these determinants to improve blood glucose levels.
Assessing water-quality changes in US rivers at multiple geographic scales using results from probabilistic and targeted monitoring.

Two commonly used approaches for water quality monitoring are probabilistic and targeted. In a probabilistic approach like the US Environmental Protection Agency’s National Rivers and Streams Assessment, monitoring sites are selected using a statistically representative approach. In a targeted approach like that used by many monitoring organizations, monitoring sites are chosen individually to answer specific questions. One important goal of both approaches is documenting long-term changes in water quality. Here, we compare chloride change results in US rivers and streams between the early 2000s and early 2010s from both approaches. The probabilistic approach provided an unbiased representation of change in all US rivers and streams, but was designed to measure low-streamflow conditions within a spring/summer index period during periodic survey years. The targeted approach was focused on larger, more developed watersheds but samples were collected frequently throughout the assessment period in different seasons and streamflows. The probabilistic results showed a small decrease in chloride concentrations in rivers and streams with the lowest concentrations, but no consistent increase or decrease in the remainder. The increased granularity of the targeted results showed that there was, in fact, a mix of changes occurring, with increases at 132 sites, decreases at 112 sites, and relatively stable conditions at 55 sites. The combined results suggest that chloride is not responding to a widespread, common driver across the USA and that management of chloride would be most effective when targeted regionally or locally.
“On My World, It Means Hope:” Superman as Symbolic Propaganda to Cultural Icon, 1939-1945

Truth, justice, and the American way. This iconic phrase is instantly familiar to anyone who has interacted with popular culture in the past seventy-five years, and immediately recalls an image of the paragon of American comic book heroes: Superman. Superman’s idealistic motto has endured throughout American culture almost as long as Superman himself. These well known words can be first attributed to a 1942 Superman radio serial, and were originally conceived as encouragement for home-front audiences struggling to come to terms with a war not yet going in the Allies’ favor. Once American forces began to experience success during World War Two, the phrase was largely forgotten until the Cold War, when it became popular to contrast American values with those of the Soviet Union.1 With the removal of such a direct reminder of these patriotic values, how did Superman become such a cultural icon, connected so strongly with American ideals? Why did his character endure as a symbol of American virtue and hope beyond World War Two, while other more explicitly patriotic comic book characters faded out of the limelight once victory was secured? This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License
A viscoelastic ellipsoidal model of the mechanics of plantar tissues.

Abstract Several assessments of the mechanics of plantar tissues, using various material models in conjunction with representing plantar regions using simple geometry, have been proposed. In this study, the plantar tissues were divided into eight regions to account for the various tissue characteristics. The plantar tissue model described each region as an ellipsoid, with a viscoelastic material model. The model combined varying elliptical contact areas with nonlinear tissue stiffness and damping. The main instruments used in this research were pressure-measuring insoles, which were used to determine the ground reaction force, as well as contact areas. The measured contact areas were fitted as elliptical areas to describe the compression of the corresponding ellipsoids. The approach was tested using walking data collected from 26 individuals: four men, 22 women, 24.4 ± 6.9 years old, 66.9 ± 21.4 kg of mass, 1.66 ± 0.12 m tall. The geometric and material variables of the proposed ellipsoidal model were optimized for each participant to match the ground reaction forces. Results suggest that the ellipsoid model is able to reproduce ground reaction force with reasonable accuracy. The largest errors were seen in heel and toe regions and were due to high-rate forces and small comparative areas, respectively. The model also showed that there are regional differences in the mechanical characteristics of plantar tissue, which confirms earlier research.
Neck and Cervical Spine Injuries in National College Athletic Association Athletes: A 5-Year Epidemiologic Study

Study design Descriptive epidemiology study. Objective The purpose of this study was to describe the epidemiology of neck and cervical spine injuries in collegiate athletes over a 5-year period. Summary of background data The incidence and etiology of neck and cervical spine injuries in National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) athletes has not been well defined in recent years. Methods The incidence and characteristics of neck and cervical spine injuries were identified utilizing the NCAA Injury Surveillance Program database. Rates of injury were calculated as the number of injuries divided by the total number of athlete-exposures (AEs). AEs were defined as any student participation in one NCAA-sanctioned practice or competition. Results Nationally, there were an estimated 11,510 neck and cervical spine injuries over the 5-year period. These occurred at a rate of 7.05 per 100,000 athlete-exposures (AEs). The rate of neck and cervical spine injuries in men was 2.66 per 100,000 AEs, while women suffered injuries at a rate of 1.95 per 100,000 AEs. In sex-comparable sports, men were 1.36 times more likely to suffer a neck or cervical spine injury compared with women. Men's football (29.09 per 100,000 AEs) and women's field hockey (11.51 per 100,000 AEs) were the sports with the highest rates of injuries. These injuries were 3.94 times more likely to occur during competition compared with practice. In-season injury rates were the highest, at 8.18 per 100,000 AEs. Conclusion The vast majority of neck and cervical spine injuries in NCAA athletes are minor and uncommon. Across all sports in both sexes, the majority of injuries were new, and occurred during in-season competitions. Most athletes returned to play within 24 hours of injury. These data can inform players, parents, coaches, athletic trainers, and physicians regarding the prevalence and rates of these injuries and potentially inform decision-making regarding injury prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation. Level of evidence 4.
Calculus students’ quantitative reasoning in the context of solving related rates of change problems

Despite the increasing amount of research on students’ quantitative reasoning at the secondary level, research on students’ quantitative reasoning at the undergraduate level is scarce. The present ...
Phase II trial of single agent amrubicin in patients with previously treated advanced thymic malignancies.

Abstract Objectives There are limited treatment options for patients with thymic malignancies. Here we present data supporting treatment with single agent amrubicin, a third generation anthracycline and topoisomerase II inhibitor. Materials and methods This was a phase 2 open-label, single arm trial of amrubicin in patients with thymoma (T) or thymic carcinoma (TC), conducted at two academic institutions. Patients were included if they had received at least one prior chemotherapy regimen. The first 18 patients received amrubicin at 40 mg/m2 IV days 1–3 repeated every 3-weeks. Due to the high incidence of febrile neutropenia, dosing was subsequently amended to 35 mg/m2 for the final 15 patients. Results A total of 33 patients (14 T/19 TC) were enrolled from 2011 to 2014. Median number of prior therapies was 2. Best response included 6 partial responses, 21 stable disease, and 6 progressive disease (all TC). Objective response rate was 18% (90% exact binomial CI 8.2%–32.8%; T = 4/14 (29%), TC = 2/19 (11%)). Median progression-free survival was 7.7 months (T: 8.3 months; TC: 7.3) and median overall survival was 29.7 months (T: 54.1 months; TC: 18 months). There was a high rate of febrile neutropenia (7 patients) that occurred despite a reduction in amrubicin dose and one related death. Five patients had reduction in LVEF below 50% during the course of treatment resulting in treatment discontinuation in one patient. Conclusion Amrubicin shows promise as a single agent in heavily pre-treated patients with thymic malignancies. Notable side effects include febrile neutropenia and the use of growth factor support is essential. Further investigation of this agent is warranted.
Sex and Race Disparities in Diverticulosis Prevalence.

Background & Aims The prevalence of diverticulosis differs with demographic features of patients, but evidence is limited. Well-defined demographic studies are necessary to understand diverticulosis biology. We estimated the prevalence of diverticulosis among patients of different ages, sexes, and races and ethnicities and calculated odds ratios. Design Using data from an endoscopic database, we identified 271,181 colonoscopy procedures performed from 2000 through 2012 at 107 sites in the United States. Our analysis included individuals 40 years and older who underwent colonoscopy examination for average-risk screening. The outcome was any reported diverticulosis on colonoscopy. Multivariate analyses were performed using logistic regression to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% CI values, adjusting for confounding variables. Results The prevalence of diverticulosis increased with age in men and women of all races and ethnicities. Women 40-49 years old had significantly lower odds of any diverticulosis (OR, 0.71; 95% CI, 0.63-0.80) compared with men 40-49 years old, after adjustment. The strength of this association decreased with age. Compared with non-Hispanic white individuals, non-Hispanic black individuals (OR, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.77-0.83) and Asian/Pacific Islanders (OR, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.35-0.41) had lower odds of any diverticulosis. However, non-Hispanic black individuals (OR, 1.53, 95% CI, 1.44-1.62) had increased odds of any proximal diverticulosis, whereas Asian/Pacific Islanders (OR, 3.12; 95% CI, 2.67-3.66) had increased odds of only proximal diverticulosis. Conclusions In an analysis of data from 271,181 colonoscopy procedures, diverticulosis was less prevalent in women compared with men in the same age groups, indicating that sex hormones might affect pathogenesis. Differences in the odds of diverticulosis by race and ethnicity indicate a genetic contribution to risk.
Abdominal Pain Following Motor Vehicle Collision

A 35-year-old unrestrained male driver is brought in by paramedics following a motor vehicle collision (MVC). There were extensive passenger space intrusion and significant steering wheel deformity. On arrival to the emergency department, the patient is conscious and responsive. His blood pressure is 80/40 mmHg and heart rate is 110/min. His pupils are equal, round, and reactive to light. His breathing is shallow but he is able to protect his airway. Breath sounds are clear bilaterally. His abdomen is distended and mildly tender to palpation, without rebound or guarding. He has blood at the urethral meatus. There are no obvious deformities in his extremities.
The Microenvironment in Follicular Lymphoma

Current understanding of the pathogenesis of follicular lymphoma (FL) requires in-depth knowledge of the multiple cellular components of its microenvironment, including infiltrating lymphocytes, macrophages, and stromal cells, in addition to tumoral B-lymphocytes. Evidence shows that non-lymphomatous cells within the tumor microenvironment play an essential role, including impairment in antitumor immune response (IR) and promotion of immune tolerance, representing a highly relevant area of research focus for the development of novel strategies to improve clinical outcomes in this disease. In this chapter, we highlight the most prominent discoveries in the last couple of decades on the role of the tumor microenvironment in FL and provide a perspective on the discovery of novel immune targets and the development of new immune therapies for the treatment of patients with FL.
In Defense of Pro-Carceral Animal Law: Understanding the Dichotomy Between Empirical Criminological Perturbation and Social Movement Values and Development

With the increase in criminal legal actions available for violent conduct toward animals, the animal protection movement has seen increased success of prosecuting industrialized animal agriculture workers who are documented committing animal cruelty crimes via undercover investigations. With this, criticism has emerged that posits that the animal protection movement unjustifiably contributes to the mass incarceration epidemic in the United States and punishes undeserving actors. Empirical criminological research supports such criticism of a “pro-carceral” animal law. Demographics of industrialized animal agricultural facilities reflect socioeconomic and racial disparities. The alleged “link” between violence to animals and violence to humans does not rest on strong evidence. Furthermore, correlates demonstrated between slaughterhouse employment and extra-institutional community crime rates questions culpability of agricultural workers who commit animal cruelty. However, pro-carceral criticism fails to consider the core value of the animal rights movement as being apart from other anthropocentric social movements and said criticism asks the movement to put its fundamental moral and ethical imperatives aside. Furthermore, pro-carceral criticism fails to consider the role of such criminal prosecutions may play in social movement development theory.
Trauma and its Vicissitudes in Forensic Contexts: An Introduction

This introductory chapter is meant to provide a rationale for the importance of looking at trauma in the forensic arena. In this context, it introduces relevant elements that the different contributors address in their respective chapters, where they provide a systematic and comprehensive examination of the different ways trauma may be present in victims and perpetrators of various crimes and situations. We highlight the significance of this recognition of the role of trauma as an important guide when addressing the question of assessment and sentencing and what types of intervention should be considered while in prison and beyond. Our main goal, in this regard, is to provide a framework that encourages forensic professionals to consider different types of trauma when evaluating and treating individuals involved in the justice system, but particularly in cases of chronic and pervasively insidious trauma. Considering the diverse populations of clients involved in the justice system, it is also our goal to emphasize the crucial importance of considering cultural and linguistic issues in those involved in the legal system that are likely to add additional complications to the assessment and adjudication of forensic issues.
Regulation of small GTPase Rab20 by ikaros in B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia

Ikaros is a DNA-binding protein that regulates gene expression and functions as a tumor suppressor in B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL). The full cohort of Ikaros target genes have yet to be identified. Here, we demonstrate that Ikaros directly regulates expression of the small GTPase, Rab20. Using ChIP-seq and qChIP we assessed Ikaros binding and the epigenetic signature at the RAB20 promoter. Expression of Ikaros, CK2, and RAB20 was determined by qRT-PCR. Overexpression of Ikaros was achieved by retroviral transduction, whereas shRNA was used to knockdown Ikaros and CK2. Regulation of transcription from the RAB20 promoter was analyzed by luciferase reporter assay. The results showed that Ikaros binds the RAB20 promoter in B-ALL. Gain-of-function and loss-of-function experiments demonstrated that Ikaros represses RAB20 transcription via chromatin remodeling. Phosphorylation by CK2 kinase reduces Ikaros’ affinity toward the RAB20 promoter and abolishes its ability to repress RAB20 transcription. Dephosphorylation by PP1 phosphatase enhances both Ikaros’ DNA-binding affinity toward the RAB20 promoter and RAB20 repression. In conclusion, the results demonstrated opposing effects of CK2 and PP1 on expression of Rab20 via control of Ikaros’ activity as a transcriptional regulator. A novel regulatory signaling network in B-cell leukemia that involves CK2, PP1, Ikaros, and Rab20 is identified.
Enhanced pulmonary systemic delivery of protein drugs via zwitterionic polymer conjugation

Pulmonary delivery of protein drugs into the systemic circulation is highly desirable as the lung provides a large absorption surface area and a more favorable environment for biologics compared to other delivery routes. However, pulmonary systemic delivery of proteins presents several challenges such as poor protein stability and limited bioavailability, especially for large proteins (molecular weight > 50 kDa), which exhibit an average bioavailability of 1% to 5% when delivered via the pulmonary route. Here, we demonstrated that with the conjugation of zwitterionic poly(carboxybetaine) (pCB) polymer, the bioavailability of organophosphate hydrolase (OPH) was significantly increased from 5% to 53%. OPH conjugated with pCB delivered through intubation-assisted intratracheal instillation (IAIS) into the lung exhibited improved pharmacokinetic properties and prophylactic efficacy against organophosphate poisoning, showing its application potential. Zwitterionic polymer conjugation provides the possibility for a favorable, non-invasive delivery of biological therapeutics into the systemic circulation.
Amplification of Three Unlinked Regions of Honey Bee (Hymenoptera: Apidae) Dna with Polymorphisms at High Frequencies in East European Subspecies

Abstract Honey bee, Apis mellifera L. (Hymenoptera: Apidae) DNA has alleles, at three polymorphic restriction sites, which were initially found almost exclusively in samples from eastern Europe. These markers were first detected with three labeled, cloned, probes on DNA blots. In this study, the polymorphic sites were made easier to analyze with the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The amplification primers and conditions are described. The regions with the polymorphic sites were mapped within the sequences of the honey bee genome and were found within three separate linkage groups. The genomic locations of the defining restriction sites and PCR primers are given. With the PCR-based method of detection, additional samples of bees from Europe and Africa were examined. Within the eastern European group, the three markers were at high frequencies in Italian bees (subspecies Apis mellifera ligustica Spinola), two markers were at high frequencies and one marker was at a lower frequency in Carniolan bees (Apis ...
Red Teaming Strategy: Huawei’s Organizational Learning and Resilience

Red team refers to an imaginary enemy within an organization. With the “winter-is-coming” consciousness, Huawei established its Red Team in the 1990s. The Red Team of Huawei analyzes and imitates its major competitors. It also helps Huawei in learning from its industry peers and ensures Huawei operating robustly against a disturbing external environment. In this chapter, we use three examples to explain the functions and importance of Red teaming strategy in Huawei and discuss how Huawei implements red teaming strategy to promote organizational learning and resilience through the lens of ambidexterity and paradox management.
Presidential Use of Force in East Asia: American Constitutional Law and the U.S.-Japan Alliance

The U.S. Constitution’s allocation of military authority has adapted over time to major shifts in American power and grand strategy. This paper explains, with a focus on U.S. military actions in East Asia and possible scenarios of special joint concern to the United States and Japan, that the president in practice wields tremendous power and discretion in using military force. Although formal, legal checks on the president’s use of force rarely come into play, Congress nevertheless retains some political power to influence presidential decision-making. The president’s powers are also constrained by interagency processes within the executive branch, and alliance relations often feed into those processes.
Retrospective Survey of Borrelia spp. From Rodents and Ticks in Thailand

Borrelia is a genus of spirochetal bacteria with several species known to cause disease in humans. The distribution of Borrelia has rarely been studied in Thailand. In this study, a retrospective survey of Borrelia was conducted in ticks and wild rodents to better characterize the prevalence, diversity, and distribution of Borrelia across Thailand. Several pools of DNA from tick samples were positive for Borrelia spp. (36/258, 13.9%). Borrelia theileri/B. lonestari was found in 17 tick samples (16 pools of Haemaphysalis bandicota and 1 pool of Rhipicephalus sp.), and Borrelia yangtzensis was found in 8 tick samples (2 pools of H. bandicota and 6 pools of Ixodes granulatus). Borrelia spp. were detected at low prevalence levels in rodent tissue samples (24/2001, 1.2%), with 19 identified as B. theileri or B. lonestari and 5 identified as B. miyamotoi. Several geographic and species-specific infection trends were apparent, with Ixodes ticks infected with B. yangtzensis and Haemaphysalis and Rhipicephalus ticks infected with both B. yangtzensis and B. theileri/B. lonestari. Notably, B. yangtzensis showed a similar geographic distribution to B. miyamotoi, which was identified in new areas of Thailand in this study. The flagellin gene sequence from B. miyamotoi was more similar to European (99.3-99.9%) than Japanese (96.9-97.6%) genotypes. This study greatly expands the knowledge of Borrelia in Thailand and identified several Borrelia species for the first time. It also found several ticks and rodents infected with the pathogen that were not previously known to carry Borrelia.
Integration of Virtual Programming into Beef Cattle Producer and Extension Agent Education

Field days and workshops are fundamental to fostering communication and demonstrating management techniques However, when faced with the COVID-19 pandemic, Extension agents turned to alternative platforms for providing educational opportunities In April 2020, Louisiana State University Agricultural Center (LSU AgCenter) agents hosted a live webinar entitled "Sustainability during Turbulent Markets" to bring beef cattle producers information on management strategies during a time of instability This initial webinar included 41 live participants and an additional 40 views within one week of posting the recording Event responses prompted creation of the Beef Brunch Educational Series, an online series designed to maintain engagement and allow agents to present timely management recommendations and industry news to producers Live webinars occur at 10:30 a m on the second Tuesday of each month Webinars are also recorded for online distribution through the LSU AgCenter website, LSU AgCenter-Livestock YouTube channel, and podcast platforms Bi-weekly news updates are released on the same platforms News updates feature weather and pasture conditions, market outlooks, management tips, events, and current industry topics Webinar engagement on all platforms averages 233 viewers with a growth range of 81 to 859 since April News updates average 87 views with a growth range of 29 to 270 participants When asked, 85% of viewers strongly agreed or agreed that information learned in webinars would be applied to their operations Extension agents utilize this program for professional development, with 75% strongly agreeing or agreeing that webinars increased confidence to apply presented knowledge and 70% stating they have or plan to incorporate news update content in their programming Thus, increased views, positive feedback, and requests for more information illustrate relevance in continuing the Beef Brunch Educational Series beyond the COVID-19 pandemic and optimistically developing it into a leading informational source for beef cattle producers in Louisiana [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] Copyright of Journal of Animal Science is the property of Oxford University Press / USA and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use This abstract may be abridged No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract (Copyright applies to all Abstracts )
Teaching in Diversity: Managing â€œDifferencesâ€ in a Multicultural Classroom

Numerous studies have paid attention to the presence of diverse cultural voices in a multicultural educational setting. This article continues this important conversation by focusing on how the different voices meet and negotiate with each other in a classroom where diversity exists, and yet is not equally represented. Thus, finding a solution that can respect and manage the different cultural norms and practices is vital to the success of the class and students. Grounded on the theoretical foundation of discourse analysis, this study was conducted through interviewing the course instructors, students, and observing their classes. The analysis shows that developing a mutually inclusive cross-cultural dialogue among students can lead to the positive integration of the distinct cultural perspectives. Ultimately, a productive and respectful teaching and learning environment will be fostered and sustained. https://doi.org/10.26803/ijlter.17.6.2
Re-enchantment and Ecological Restoration in the BD adaptation of Rue Cases-Nègres by Joseph Zobel: A Path towards Coexistence

Although France abolished slavery for the second time in 1848, the economic and social realities in the French Caribbean reflect persistent power dynamics between beke owners and black workers who ...
Over 100 dBc ROM-less piecewise non-linear direct digital frequency synthesizers

This paper deals with maximizing the spurious free dynamic range (SFDR), while also minimizing the power consumption of sine-wave approximation circuits used in direct digital frequency synthesizers. Three 16-segments ROM-less piecewise non-linear approximations are introduced and compared with many other ROM-less solutions. The circuit complexity (estimated as the number of transistors, is comparable to that of other 16-segment piecewise linear approximations, while the SFDR is significantly increased from 48+72 dBc to over 100 dBc.
Casodex treatment induces hypoxia-related gene expression in the LNCaP prostate cancer progression model

The changes in gene expression profile as prostate cancer progresses from an androgen-dependent disease to an androgen-independent disease are still largely unknown. We examined the gene expression profile in the LNCaP prostate cancer progression model during chronic treatment with Casodex using cDNA microarrays consisting of 2305 randomly chosen genes. Our studies revealed a representative collection of genes whose expression was differentially regulated in LNCaP cells upon treatment with Casodex. A set of 15 genes were shown to be highly expressed in Casodex-treated LNCaP cells compared to the reference sample. This set of highly expressed genes represents a signature collection unique to prostate cancer since their expression was significantly greater than that of the collective pool of ten cancer cell lines of the reference sample. The highly expressed signature collection included the hypoxia-related genes membrane metallo-endopeptidase (MME), cyclin G2, and Bcl2/adenovirus E1B 19 kDa (BNIP3). Given the roles of these genes in angiogenesis, cell cycle regulation, and apoptosis, we further analyzed their expression and concluded that these genes may be involved in the molecular changes that lead to androgen-independence in prostate cancer. Our data indicate that one of the mechanisms of Casodex action in prostate cancer cells is induction of hypoxic gene expression.
Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion: an independent assessment of outcomes in a difficult patient population.

Background: Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion is becoming increasingly popular for the surgical treatment of lumbar degenerative conditions. However, the outcomes following the procedure have only begun to be evaluated. Material/Methods: The authors reviewed all patients previously treated by TLIF at our tertiary center with minimum two year follow-up. Between 1997 and 2001, twenty-seven patients underwent the procedure. They were evaluated clinically and radiographically at regular intervals for a minimum two years following surgery and longer term follow-up was carried out by telephone interview. Long-term follow-up was undertaken by an independent assessor (a spine surgeon not directly involved in the patient's care) and outcomes were assessed using the measure designed by Macnab/McCulloch/An. Follow-up averaged 30 months and ranged from 24 to 42 months. Results: All but two patients obtained a solid radiographic arthrodesis and complications were few. However, only eleven patients obtained excellent or good clinical results, while 16 had fair or poor outcomes. Conclusions: TLIF is a technically demanding procedure which can be done with relatively few complications and offers excellent rates of arthrodesis. However, the outcomes of the procedure and indications for the procedure in difficult patient populations clearly require further study.
A superelastic viscous damper for enhanced seismic performance of steel moment frames

Abstract This study proposes a hybrid passive control device and investigates its performance in improving response of steel frame structures subjected to multi-level seismic hazards. The proposed superelastic viscous damper (SVD) relies on shape memory alloy (SMA) cables for re-centering capability and employs a viscoelastic (VE) damper that consists of two layers of a high damped (HD) blended butyl elastomer compound to augment its energy dissipation capacity. First, experimental tests are conducted to characterize behavior of SMA cables and VE damper and to assess the influence of various parameters such as displacement amplitude and loading frequency on their mechanical response. Then, an analytical model of a six-story steel special moment frame building with the installed SVDs is developed to determine the dynamic response of the structure. Nonlinear response history analyses are conducted to evaluate the behavior of controlled and uncontrolled buildings under 44 ground motion records. Results shows that SVDs can effectively mitigate dynamic response of steel frame structures at different seismic hazard levels and enhance their post-earthquake functionality.
A fuzzy C-means clustering placement algorithm

A placement algorithm based on fuzzy c-means clustering techniques is presented. The first stage of the algorithm is to construct the max-product transitive closure of the connection matrix, which is then used as a fuzzy similarity relation in a clustering process. This stage is then followed by a combination of fuzzy c-means clustering and linear ordering process to partition modules and construct the final placement configuration. Details of various building blocks of the algorithm and its complexity of computation are described. Experimental results using the algorithm are presented and discussed. >
Chiral recognition in the solid state : crystallographically characterized diastereomeric co-crystals between a synthetic chiral selector (Whelk-O1) and a representative chiral analyte

Abstract Designed to distinguish between the enantiomers of compounds possessing commonly occurring structural features, the chiral selector used in the chiral stationary phase (CSP) 1 (Whelk-O1) is broadly applicable. In an effort to further the understanding of the mechanism of chiral recognition with this chiral selector, both diastereomeric combinations of selector 1 and a representative analyte, the pivalamide of p-bromo-α-phenylethylamine, 2, were successfully co-crystallized and characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction. The crystal corresponding to the complex that is more stable in solution is consistent with our previously reported chiral recognition model. The aromatic portion of 2 is in the cleft of selector 1, displaying both face-to-face and face-to-edge π–π interactions as well as a hydrogen bond between the benzamide proton of the selector and the carbonyl oxygen of the analyte. For the crystal corresponding to the complex, which is less stable in solution, the aromatic portion of 2 is not in the cleft of selector 1, having approached from the opposite face of the π-acidic dinitrobenzamide moiety so as to undergo face-to-face π–π and hydrogen bonding interactions. Comparisons of these structures and their relevance to enantioselective chromatography are also discussed.
Neurological sequelae induced by alphavirus infection of the CNS are attenuated by treatment with the glutamine antagonist 6-diazo-5-oxo-l-norleucine

Recovery from encephalomyelitis induced by infection with mosquito-borne alphaviruses is associated with a high risk of lifelong debilitating neurological deficits. Infection of mice with the prototypic alphavirus, Sindbis virus, provides an animal model with which to study disease mechanisms and examine potential therapeutics. Infectious virus is cleared from the brain within a week after infection, but viral RNA is cleared slowly and persists for the life of the animal. However, no studies have examined the effect of infection on neurocognitive function over time. In the present study, we examined neurocognitive function at different phases of infection in 5-week-old C57BL/6 mice intranasally inoculated with Sindbis virus. At the peak of active virus infection, mice demonstrated hyperactivity, decreased anxiety, and marked hippocampal-dependent memory deficits, the latter of which persisted beyond clearance of infectious virus and resolution of clinical signs of disease. Previous studies indicate that neuronal damage during alphavirus encephalomyelitis is primarily due to inflammatory cell infiltration and glutamate excitotoxicity rather than directly by virus infection. Therefore, mice were treated with 6-diazo-5-oxo-l-norleucine (DON), a glutamine antagonist that can suppress both the immune response and excitotoxicity. Treatment with DON decreased inflammatory cell infiltration and cell death in the hippocampus and partially prevented development of clinical signs and neurocognitive impairment despite the presence of infectious virus and high viral RNA levels. This study presents the first report of neurocognitive sequelae in mice with alphavirus encephalomyelitis and provides a model system for further elucidation of the pathogenesis of virus infection and assessment of potential therapies.
Empirical Scaling Laws for Truck Bomb Explosions Based on Seismic and Acoustic Data

We analyze seismic and acoustic data from a series of controlled truck bomb explosions to develop scaling laws and functional relations between charge size and various waveform properties. The explosions had yields of 3–12 × 103 kg trinitrotoluene (TNT), and the receivers were placed at distances of 1–16 km, so the data mimic the data previously recorded from actual terrorist truck bombings. We examine four airblast properties (peak overpressure, impulse per unit area, pulse duration, and average shock velocity) and three seismic properties (peak displacement of P wave, low-frequency asymptote of displacement spectrum, and the corner frequency of displacement spectrum) as potential yield estimators. Impulse per unit area and pulse duration observations prove to be the most robust yield indicators; however, peak overpressure, peak displacement, and low-frequency spectral asymptote have significant utility as well. The acoustic scaling laws are more portable than the seismic scaling laws because regional differences in atmospheric structure can be well described by pressure and temperature observations, while regional differences in geologic structure are dependent on a large number of less accessible parameters. We apply the scaling laws developed here to seismic waveforms of the 1998 Nairobi bombing and find a yield of 2.0–6.0 × 103 kg TNT. This value is consistent with but more precise than a previous estimate made via a time domain waveform inversion. Additional testing indicates that our functional relations are likely applicable to surface chemical explosions in general and not limited solely to truck bombs.
Effect of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus on response to extracorporeal photopheresis in patients with Sézary syndrome.

Abstract Background: Extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP) has become a primary therapy for selected forms of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, especially Sezary syndrome. Variability in response of patients with Sezary syndrome to ECP has been reported. Objective: Our purpose was to determine whether underlying medical conditions influence the efficacy of ECP in patients with Sezary syndrome. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 55 patients with Sezary syndrome who received ECP between 1987 and 2000. Efficacy criteria included decrease in Sezary cell count, erythroderma, lymphadenopathy, organomegaly, and pruritus. Results: Thirty-four patients responded well and 10 patients responded partially to ECP; 11 patients had no response. Nine patients with no response to ECP had insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM). IDDM was documented in only 2 patients with a good response and in no patients with a partial response to ECP. Conclusion: Patients with Sezary syndrome and IDDM typically respond poorly to the standard ECP treatment regimen. (J Am Acad Dermatol 2002;47:63-7.)
Luteal function, largest follicle, and fertility in postpartum dairy cows treated with 14dCIDR-PGF2α versus 2xPGF2α-Ovsynch for timed AI

A method for timed artificial insemination (AI) that is used for beef cows, beef heifers, and dairy heifers employs progesterone-releasing inserts, such as the controlled internal drug release (CIDR; Zoetis, New York, NY, USA) that are left in place for 14 days. The 14-day CIDR treatment is a method of presynchronization that ensures that cattle are in the late luteal phase of the estrous cycle when PGF2α is administered before timed AI. The objective of this study was to test the effectiveness of the 14dCIDR-PGF2α program in postpartum dairy cows by comparing it with the traditional "Presynch-Ovsynch" (2xPGF2α-Ovsynch) program. The 14dCIDR-PGF2α cows (n = 132) were treated with a CIDR insert on Day 0 for 14 days. At 19 days after CIDR removal (Day 33), the cows were treated with a luteolytic dose of PGF2α, 56 hours later were treated with an ovulatory dose of GnRH (Day 35), and 16 hours later were inseminated. The 2xPGF2α-Ovsynch cows were treated with a luteolytic dose of PGF2α on Day 0 and again on Day 14. At 12 days after the second PGF2α treatment (Day 26), the cows were treated with GnRH. At 7 days after GnRH, the cows were treated with PGF2α (Day 33), then 56 hours later treated with GnRH (Day 35), and then 16 hours later were inseminated. There was no effect of treatment or treatment by parity interaction on pregnancies per AI (P/AI) when pregnancy diagnosis was performed on Day 32 (115/263; 43.7%) or Days 60 to 90 (99/263; 37.6%) after insemination. There was an effect of parity (P < 0.05) on P/AI because primiparous cows had lesser P/AI (35/98; 35.7%) than multiparous cows (80/165; 48.5%) on Day 32. Cows observed in estrus after the presynchronization step (within 5 days after CIDR removal or within 5 days after the second PGF2α treatment) had greater P/AI than those not observed in estrus (55/103; 53.4% vs. 60/160; 37.5%; observed vs. not observed; P < 0.01; d 32 pregnancy diagnosis). When progesterone data were examined in a subset of cows (n = 208), 55.3% of cows had a "prototypical" response to treatment (i.e., the cow had an estrous cycle that was synchronized by the presynchronization treatment and then the cow responded appropriately to the subsequent PGF2α and GnRH treatments before timed AI). Collectively, cows with a prototypical response to either treatment had 52.2% P/AI that was greater (P < 0.001) than the P/AI for cows that had a nonprototypical response (19%) (P/AI determined at 60-90 days of pregnancy). In conclusion, we did not detect a difference in P/AI when postpartum dairy cows were treated with 14dCIDR-PGF2α or 2xPGF2α-Ovsynch before timed AI. The primary limitation to the success of either program was the failure of the cow to respond appropriately to the sequence of treatments.
Collembolan cuticle: wax layer and anti-wetting properties.

Abstract Scanning and transmission electron microscopy have confirmed and elaborated reports of an intricate hexagonal sculpturing on the surface of the cuticle of Tomocerus flavescens, a Collembolan. Differential staining with lanthanum nitrate indicates that the cuticle is covered with a wax layer which, in combination with the sculpturing, renders the cuticle highly hydrophobic.
A partially distributed deadlock detection algorithm

In this paper, a partially distributed deadlock detection algorithm [PDDDA] with multiple outstanding requests is presented for use in distributed database systems. This algorithm allows a process to request many resources simultaneously and uses a central controller for detecting multisite deadlocks. The detection of local deadlocks and the maintenance of local deadlock information are performed at each of the local sites. This partially distributed algorithm alleviates the problem of congestion at the central controller in a centralized algorithm and needs fewer messages and smaller storage space than a fully decentralized algorithm. A set of criteria for comparing deadlock detection algorithms are also given and then used to compare PDDDA with a fully decentralized algorithm proposed by Isloor and Marsland.
CODE-CHANGE IMPACT ANALYSIS USING COUNTERFACTUALS: THEORY AND IMPLEMENTATION

This article shows a novel program analysis framework based on Lewis' theory of counterfactuals. Using this framework we are capable of performing change-impact static analysis on a program's source code. In other words, we are able to prove the properties induced by changes to a given program before applying these changes. Our contribution is two-fold; we show how to use Lewis' logic of counterfactuals to prove that proposed changes to a program preserve its correctness. We report the development of an automated tool based on resolution and theorem proving for performing code change-impact analysis.
Ribonuclease and deoxyribonuclease activity in hyaluronidase preparations.

Abstract Significant amounts of ribonuclease activity have been found to occur in testicular hyaluronidase even after purification to 16,000 NF units/mg. Only a small amount of ribonuclease activity was found in a crude preparation of leech hyaluronidase, and no ribonuclease activity was detectable in three types of bacterial mucopolysaccharidase. Deoxyribonuclease activity was also present in testicular hyaluronidase. The significance of these findings is discussed in relation to the use of mucopolysaccharidases in biochemical, physiological, and histochemical studies.
Forest Characteristics Associated with Abundance of Foraging Ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) in Connecticut

Thirty forested plots throughout Connecticut were established to determine the associationof forest site conditions with population sizes of common ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae).The plot characteristics investigated were plot slope, elevation,longitude,latitude, basal area of trees and number of understory stems of species associated with moist conditions, and total length of intersection of rocks along 4 plot transects.Two plot characteristics were consistently related to ant abundance: plot latitude and basal area of trees that prefer mesic or wet sites. Ant numbers were less at high latitudes and in moister sites. Implications of these results for improving biological control by ants are discussed.
Glutathione S-transferases as putative host susceptibility genes for cancer risk in agricultural workers.

© 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 19:187–189, 2005; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/jbt.20081
Oxidation of ZrB2–SiC: Influence of SiC Content on Solid and Liquid Oxide Phase Formation

The effect of SiC concentration on the liquid and solid oxide phases formed during oxidation of ZrB2–SiC composites is investigated. Oxide-scale features called convection cells are formed from liquid and solid oxide reaction products upon oxidation of the ZrB2–SiC composites. These convection cells form in the outermost borosilicate oxide film of the oxide scale formed on the ZrB2–SiC during oxidation at high temperatures (≥1500°C). In this study, three ZrB2–SiC composites with different amounts of SiC were tested at 1550°C for various durations of time to study the effect of the SiC concentration particularly on the formation of the convection cell features. A calculated ternary phase diagram of a ZrO2–SiO2–B2O3 (BSZ) system was used for interpretation of the results. The convection cells formed during oxidation were fewer and less uniformly distributed for composites with a higher SiC concentration. This is because the convection cells are formed from ZrO2 precipitates from a BSZ oxide liquid that forms upon oxidation of the composite at 1550°C. Higher SiC-containing composites will have less dissolved ZrO2 because they have less B2O3, which results in a smaller amount of precipitated ZrO2 and consequently fewer convection cells.