cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of cation on the structures, magnetic properties and specific heats of salts of bis(5,6-dihydro-1,4-dithiin-2,3-dithiolato)nickelate(III): the crystal structure of[(CH-3)4N] [Ni(DDDT)2]

Abstract The structure of the tetramethylammonium salt of Ni(DDDT)2- (DDDT2-=5,6-lihydro-l,4-dithiin-2,3-dithiolate) has been determined by X-ray crystallography. The crystal belongs to the orthorhombic space group Pbca with unit cell dimensions a=0.543(2), b=13.937(5), c=27.518(7) A, Z=8. The NiS4 core exhibits square planar coordination with an average NiS bond length 2.146(2) A. The crystal packing can be described as interlocking colums consisting of alternating cations and anions. The columns form a zigzag pattern when viewed down the y axis. The shortest S···S contact is 3.57 A with a total of four contacts less than 3.8 A. The X-ray powder diffraction spectrum of this salt showed the presence of only one crystallographic species, while that of the tetrabutylammonium salt indicated the possibility of a third polymorph. Magnetic susceptibility data for [(CH3)4N] [Ni(DDDT)2] were fit to the Curie-Weiss law by expanding the Weiss constant as an infinite series. The specific heats of the [(CH3)4N]+, [(C2H5)4N]+ and [(C4H9)4N]+ salts of Ni(DDDT)2− were measured between 1 and 25 K. Similar specific heats were observed above 4 K but the values differed significantly below this temperature.
Physical health functioning among United Methodist clergy.

United Methodist clergy have been found to have higher than average self-reported rates of obesity, diabetes, asthma, arthritis, and high blood pressure. However, health diagnoses differ from physical health functioning, which indicates how much health problems interfere with activities of daily living. Ninety-five percent (n = 1726) of all actively serving United Methodist clergy in North Carolina completed the SF-12, a measure of physical health functioning that has US norms based on self-administered survey data. Sixty-two percent (n = 1074) of our sample completed the SF-12 by self-administered formats. We used mean difference tests among self-administered clergy surveys to compare the clergy SF-12 Physical Composite Scores to US-normed scores. Clergy reported significantly better physical health composite scores than their gender- and age-matched peers, despite above average disease burden in the same sample. Although health interventions tailored to clergy that address chronic disease are urgently needed, it may be difficult to elicit participation given pastors’ optimistic view of their physical health functioning.
Radiation measurements in a labyrinth penetration at a high-energy proton accelerator

The efficient design of access penetrations at high-energy proton accelerators is desirable for both economic and personnel protection reasons. This paper reports on a series of measurements made in a personnel access labyrinth which viewed an A1 target bombarded by 400-GeV protons from the Fermilab Tevatron. Measurements of absorbed dose in the labyrinth using tissue-equivalent ion chambers were consistent with theoretical predictions of both the relative attenuation through the penetration and the absolute magnitude near the target. The multisphere technique was used to determine the neutron energy spectrum in one section of the labyrinth. A recombination chamber was used to measure the quality factor of the radiation field in two sections of the labyrinth. Good agreement with the quality factor deduced from the multisphere result was obtained at the same measurement location.
Effects of combined X-ray irradiation and hot-electron injection on NMOS transistors

Changes of NMOS transistor parameters after combined stress of x-ray irradiation and hot-electron injection were studied. We found that, in general, the resultant effects depended strongly on the order of the stress sequence. Of the parameters studied, oxide charge trapping depends more significantly on the stress sequence than the generation of interface traps. Interface trap transformation process and nonuniform defect distribution along the channel have been observed under certain stress conditions. Consequences of the above effects on the transistor dc parameters are discussed.
A histochemical and ultrastructural study of lipofuscin accumulation in thyroid follicular cells of aging domestic cats.

Abstract Enzyme activity and fine structure of thyroid follicular cells were investigated in domestic cats at ages: 2 and 8 months, and 1, 3, 5 and 8 years. The following major changes in the follicular cells with advancing age were observed: with histochemistry — an increase in acid phosphatase and beta-glucuronidase activities confined to numerous granules (vesicles); with electron microscopy — an increase in colloid vesicles, the appearance and increase in size and number of lipofuscin vesicles, and the increase in number of follicular cells containing numerous colloid or lipofuscin vesicles. It is our opinion that the numerous enzymatically active granules of the older groups, observed with histochemistry, are synonymous with the lipofuscin vesicles and many of the colloid vesicles observed with electron microscopy. The cellular changes involving increased enzymatic activity and lipofuscin accumulation with advancing age would correlate with decreased thyroid function reported in the literature. These observations, therefore, would suggest increased autophagic activity involving organelle or unneeded product degradation.
Vitamin D deficiency and corticosteroid use are risk factors for low bone mineral density in inflammatory bowel disease patients.

Background As several factors can contribute to low bone mineral density (BMD), we investigated the role of vitamin D in low BMD while controlling for other risk factors in inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) patients.
Perspective: Avoiding injury

There are easy ways to reduce the odds of suffering a life-changing injury, says Sara Klaas.
Prediction of the effects of mild head injury: a message about the Kennard Principle.

We surveyed assumptions with regard to the relation between age and outcome of head injury (a. k. a. the “Kennard Principle”). Two groups (N = 120) of practicing clinicians were sent background information about a mild to moderate head injury in which only the age of the patient varied and were asked to predict likely outcome (degree of impairment). Predicted outcome differed significantly, with an adolescent case judged much more likely to have serious impairment than a child case. Implications of the (mis)application of the Kennard Principle are discussed.
Robust sensing methodology for detecting change with bistable circuitry dynamics tailoring

In contrast to monitoring natural frequency shift, bifurcation-based sensing techniques utilize dramatic switches in response amplitude to detect structural change. We demonstrate a highly sensitive bifurcation-based sensing method requiring only the monitored structure, a transduction mechanism, and bistable electric circuitry. The system configuration is broadly applicable from, e.g., microscale mass sensing to structural health monitoring. In contrast to single bifurcation events of past techniques, the present methodology introduces new bifurcations that may be utilized sequentially for monitoring numerous thresholds of structural parameter change. We show that bifurcation-based sensing potential and versatility is greatly advanced.
Can a biologist fix a radio?—Or, what I learned while studying apoptosis

This article by Yu. Lazebnik, “Can a Biologist Fix a Radio? — or, What I Learned while Studying Apoptosis” has already been published in English (Cancer Cell, 2002, 2, 179–182) and in Russian (Uspekhi Gerontologii, 2003, No. 12, 166–171). Nevertheless, we have undertaken its secondary publication in our journal for two reasons: first, our journal has different readers, and, second, the great significance of this manifest of Yuri Lazebnik. The author in bright and clever form shows the emerging necessity to create formalized language designed to describe complicated systems of regulation of biochemical processes in living cells. The article is published with permission of Cancer Cell and Uspekhi Gerontologii.
Prevalence of sleep disorders by sex and ethnicity among older adolescents and emerging adults: Relations to daytime functioning, working memory and mental health ☆

The study determined the prevalence of sleep disorders by ethnicity and sex, and related daytime functioning, working memory, and mental health among older adolescent to emerging adult college students. Participants were U.S.A. undergraduates (N = 1684), aged 17-25, recruited from 2010 to 2011. Participants completed online questionnaires for all variables. Overall, 36.0% of the sample screened positive for sleep disorders with insomnia, restless legs syndrome, and periodic limb movement disorder being the most prevalent. Women reported more insomnia and daytime impairment. African-Americans reported more early morning awakenings and less daytime impairment. Students with insomnia symptoms or restless legs syndrome tended to have lower working memory capacities. Students with nightmares or parasomnias had greater odds for mental disorders. In an older adolescent to emerging adult college student sample, sleep disorders may be a common source of sleep disturbance and impairment. Certain sleep disorders may be associated with lower working memory capacity and poor mental health.
One-stage neonatal pull-through to treat Hirschsprung's disease

Abstract Introduction : Traditionally Hirschsprung's disease has been treated by a three-stage procedure. This approach has been associated with stoma problems, three episodes of hospitalization, and a theoretical disadvantage, because of the delayed passage of feces via the rectum, in controlling defecation. The aim of this study was to assess the results of one-stage neonatal pull-through for the treatment of Hirschsprung's disease. Methods : This was a 10-year retrospective review of all patients treated with a neonatal pull-through for Hirschsprung's disease. Information was obtained from the patients' records. All descriptive data are expressed as mean ± standard deviation. Results : Fifty-one patients were treated in the 10-year period studied. The mean gestational age was 39.6 ± 1.7 weeks, weight was 3.3 ± 0.54 kg, with 76% being boys. The surgery was performed at 10.3 ± 5.8 days of age. A Swenson procedure was carried out in 38 patients and a Soave in 13. The extent of the disease was rectosigmoid in 39, and the remaining were sigmoid, descending colon, and total colonic. The mean length of the surgery was 181 ± 40 minutes. Blood transfusions were required in 13 patients with a mean volume of 55 mL given. The complications observed were: an anastomotic leak in two cases, requiring laparotomy and colostomy (both in patients with Down's syndrome), and wound infection in three cases. There were two delayed deaths both associated with other congenital anomalies. In total, three patients required further surgery; two had colostomies, one requiring a redo pull-through and one had an ileostomy for enterocolitis. The total length of hospital stay was 20.4 ± 11.2 days. Mean follow-up was 3.73 ± 2.9 years. In 21 patients the follow-up was greater than 4 years and in this group none were totally incontinent. Four patients complained of soiling at least once a week, and 17 had normal bowel control. Conclusion : Hirschsprung's disease can be successfully treated in the neonatal period with a one-stage pull-through. The short- and long-term results are as good as those with the three-stage procedure, with the child usually benefitting by not having a stoma and a shorter hospital stay.
Heterotic string compactification on N = 2 superconformal theories with c = 9

Abstract We study (2, 2) compactifications of the heterotic string by tensoring the discrete N = 2 superconformal series. We construct all models with c = 9 that preserve N = 1 spacetime supersymmetry and discuss some of their properties.
Management of varicose veins and their related problems

Abstract A discussion of some of the current opinions in reference to the management of varicose veins and the related problems has been made. An adequate combined division and ligation of the great saphenous vein at the saphenofemoral junction is the basis of all surgical treatment today. This combined with the stripping operation is not the ultimate treatment for varicosities but it is the best treatment so far. Various factors in the diagnosis and treatment of the indurated and ulcerated leg have been discussed. Each vascular problem must be considered as an individual case and all measures available should be utilized in their treatment.
Striae and pelvic relaxation: two disorders of connective tissue with a strong association.

Pelvic relaxation, a weakening of pelvic support structures, is an under-reported condition that affects a multitude of women. In the United States alone, more than 338,000 procedures for prolapse are performed annually. Decreased collagen content has been noted in the tissues of women affected by this condition. Interestingly, biopsy specimens of women with striae also show a diminution of collagen. Using self-reported anonymous data, we compared the prevalence of striae in women with and without pelvic relaxation to see if an association between these two disorders of connective tissue existed. More than half the women with prolapse (54.7%) ( n =41) reported striae, whereas only 25.0% of women in the non-prolapse group ( n =8) reported striae ( P P
Magic “Squares” Indeed!

6392 + 1742 + 8522 = 9362 + 4712 + 2582 (counter-diagonals) 6542 + 7982 + 2132 = 4562 + 8972 + 3122 (diagonals) 6932 + 7142 + 2582 = 3962 + 4172 + 8522 (counter-diagonals). This property was discovered by Dr. Irving Joshua Matrix [3], first published in [5] and more recently in [1]. We prove that this property holds for every 3-by-3 magic square, where the rows, columns, diagonals, and counter-diagonals can be read as 3-digit numbers in any base. We also describe n-by-n matrices that satisfy this condition, among them all circulant matrices and all symmetrical magic squares. For example, the 5-by-5 magic square in (1) also satisfies the squarepalindromic property for every base.
Analytic continuation of periodic orbits from equilibria of two-degree-of-freedom systems in rotating coordinates

A new theory is formulated for the analytic continuation of periodic (and aperiodic) orbits from equilibrium solutions of a two-degree-of-freedom dynamical system in rotating coordinates:% MathType!MTEF!2!1!+-% feaafeart1ev1aaatCvAUfeBSjuyZL2yd9gzLbvyNv2CaerbuLwBLn% hiov2DGi1BTfMBaeXafv3ySLgzGmvETj2BSbqefm0B1jxALjhiov2D% aebbfv3ySLgzGueE0jxyaibaiiYdd9qrFfea0dXdf9vqai-hEir8Ve% ea0de9qq-hbrpepeea0db9q8as0-LqLs-Jirpepeea0-as0Fb9pgea% 0lrP0xe9Fve9Fve9qapdbaqaaeGacaGaaiaabeqaamaabaabcaGcba% acbiGab8xDayaacaGaa8xlaiaa-jdacaWFUbGaeqyXduNaa8xpaiaa% -zfadaWgaaWcbaGccaWF4baaleqaaOGaaiilaiqbew8a1zaacaGaey% 4kaSIaaGOmaiaad6gacaWG1bGaeyypa0Jaa8NvamaaBaaaleaakiaa% -LhaaSqabaGccaGGSaGabmiEayaacaGaeyypa0JaamyDaiaacYcace% WG5bGbaiaacqGH9aqpcqaHfpqDaaa!54CD!\[\dot u - 2n\upsilon = V_x ,\dot \upsilon + 2nu = V_y ,\dot x = u,\dot y = \upsilon \]Away from resonance, a family of nonlinear, normal-mode orbits defines an autonomous velocity field u(x, y), u(x, y) represented by convergent algebraic-series expansions in the two position variables. This approach is useful for determining the global structure of solution curves and nonlinear stability of normal modes using Liapunov's direct method. At resonance, the series coefficients are time dependent because stationary modes are incompatible with the equations of motion. By eliminating small divisors, explicit time dependence provides a natural transition from non-resonance to resonance cases within the same theory.
Thinking Temporally or Modernizing Anthropology

Recent changes within social and cultural anthropology have made history a key issue, but in this essay I argue that the field has yet to develop the resources that are required to deal with temporality. This point is made through an extended examination of Jean and John Comaroff's work on Christianity and colonialism in southern Africa. Arguably, the Comaroffs read history backward and then present its unfolding as a kind of inexorable logic. In doing so, they homogenize missionary and Tswana "cultures" and attribute agency to abstractions rather than to people acting in particular material contexts. In contrast, I argue for a narrative approach to historical anthropological explanation. The emergent qualities of events-and the variable ways in which capitalism, hegemony, Protestantism, and vernacular modernisms relate-require narrative for explanation, narrative that encompasses within itself the narratives of social actors themselves. [historical anthropology, narrative, the modern, South Africa]
Use of Relational Database Management Systems Principles in Reliable Prediction of Pavement Skid Resistance

Findings are presented from a research study conducted at Texas Tech University on the skid resistance of hot-mix asphalt concrete surfaces. The background on problems of evaluating aggregate sources using the results of laboratory tests and field skid resistance history is presented, and the methodology adopted by researchers is discussed briefly. The study findings indicate that by using a combination of tests, such as acid-insoluble residue (AIR) and petrography analysis, aggregates can be classified into three major groups: low AIR carbonates, high AIR carbonates, and noncarbonates. Skid performance rating (SPR) values were used to correlate the laboratory test results. It was found that laboratory test results of high AIR carbonates and noncarbonates provide good correlation with SPR values. However, the laboratory tests of low AIR carbonates show poor correlation with SPR values. The problems of implementing the results are discussed from the viewpoint of a pavement engineer. An entity-relationship ...
An effective method for establishing human B lymphoblastic cell lines using epstein-barr virus

Methods are described for the efficient transformation of fresh or cryopreserved human B lymphocytes to produce continuous, lymphoblastic cell lines. Lymphocytes are separated from whole blood by centrifugation through Ficoll. They are transformed by exposure to Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) obtained as a supernatant from ATCC. CRL 1612 (B95-8) cells. Virus production is verified in advance by immunoperoxidase staining after application of a monoclonal antibody to EBV capsid antigen [ATCC.HB 168 (72A1)]. The addition of irradiated feeder cells [ATCC.CCL 17 (MRC-5)] is important to enhance efficiency in lymphoblast culture initiation.
Sex differences, but no seasonal variations in the hippocampus of food-caching squirrels: a stereological study.

Recent studies have described sex differences in the relative size of the hippocampus that are associated with sex differences in space use in birds and short-lived mammals. A correlation between spatial learning and increased hippocampal volume has also been demonstrated in food-caching animals. Such results suggest that sexually dimorphic spatial learning (sex differences in space use during the breeding season) and seasonal variations in food-caching behavior (spatial memory for cache locations) might correlate with morphological changes in the hippocampus of adult long-lived mammals. We used modern stereological techniques to examine the volume and neuron number of the structures forming the hippocampal complex (dentate gyrus, CA3, and CA1) of wild adult eastern gray squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis) throughout the year. We observed differences in brain size between samples collected at different times of the year (October, January, and June). Our analysis showed sex differences, but no seasonal variations, in the volume of CA1 stratum oriens and stratum radiatum. There were no sex differences or seasonal variations in the relative volume or the number of neurons of any other layer of the structures forming the hippocampal complex. These results confirm the existence of sex differences in the structure of the hippocampus; however, this sexual dimorphism does not vary seasonally in adulthood and is likely to result from developmental processes. These results do not support the hypothesis that seasonal variations in food-caching behavior might correlate with morphological changes, such as variations in volume or neuron number, in the hippocampal complex of adult
Lentigo Maligna of the Lateral Canthal Skin

Abstract An elderly patient with a large, acquired macular pigmented lesion on the skin of the left lateral canthus is described. Clinically, the lesion was consistent with lentigo maligna and total excision was performed. Histopathologic examination revealed atypical melanocytic proliferation at the dermal-epidermal junction without dermal invasion. The premalignant nature of this lesion is discussed as well as the clinical diagnostic clues. A brief review is given of the different types of cutaneous melanoma and prognostic factors, diagnosis, and management.
Local deformation in stretched polybutene‐1 spherulites

The orientation of crystals in spherulites of modifications I and II of polybutene-1 was studied by micro-x-ray diffraction. Changes in such micro-x-ray diffraction patterns were measured in various regions of the spherulites as a function of strain and time. The relationship between micro-x-ray diffraction from parts of spherulites and macro-x-ray diffraction from entire spherulites is discussed. Changes are resolved into contributions arising from (1) deformation of spherulites with change in crystal orientation and (2) transformation of crystals from modification II to modification I.
Ethical and Cultural Considerations in Delivering Psychiatric Diagnosis: Reconciling the Gap Using MDD Diagnosis Delivery in Less-Acculturated Chinese Patients

Talking to patients from diverse cultural backgrounds about their psychiatric disorders requires knowledge of one's own culture, the patients' cultures, and the ways in which they might interact, both in positive and unexpectedly negative ways. In this paper, we discuss the issues raised by discussing psychiatric diagnoses with Chinese-Americans who hold traditional illness beliefs and are not familiar with Western conceptions of psychiatric disorders. We explore how cultural values influence this aspect of medical practice, and suggest practical approaches to communicating the diagnosis of major depressive disorder in a culturally sensitive manner. Our clinical approach is to develop co-constructed illness narratives with patients, and to aid this process by reframing different elements of the clinical process into more culturally resonant forms. The following steps are suggested: 1) elicit patient's illness beliefs; 2) understand and acknowledge multiple explanatory models; 3) contextualize depressive symptoms into patient's physical health and social system; 4) introduce Western psychiatric theories in ways that reflect assumptions shared by Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM); 5) involve patients' families whenever possible; and 6) use terminology that avoids unintended stigma.
Modeling Iso-Ahola’s Motivation Theory in the Tourism Context

Iso-Ahola’s theory asserts that personal escape, personal seeking, interpersonal escape, and interpersonal seeking motivate tourism and recreation. This article operationalizes and empirically tests Iso-Ahola’s theory for similar tourism and recreation experiences. The motivation dimensions are monitored using scenario-based data for sporting events, beaches, amusement parks, and natural parks. The first investigation used confirmatory factor analysis to explore the efficacy of six competing motivational structures. Three of these competing models achieved superior and similar fit statistics, with one model incorporating the most parsimonious structure. This model gave equal and direct salience to each of the four motivations. The second investigation examined the differences in motivation levels for tourism and recreation experiences. Tourism experiences exhibited higher levels of motivation, particularly for the personal seeking and personal escape dimensions. The third investigation found no relationsh...
Effects of the lateral septum and latent inhibition on successive discrimination learning

Damage to the lateral nucleus of the septum in the rat resulted in atypical learning to a previously meaningless stimulus. Nonreinforced preexposure to a stimulus normally makes more difficult subsequent use of that stimulus for learning. The effect of this preexposure on learning is termed latent inhibition and was demonstrated in sham operated animals. Rats in which the lateral septum was damaged demonstrated a paradoxically smaller learning deficit in the presence of a conditioned stimulus that was previously presented without reinforcement, when compared to the performance of both septal lesioned rats not receiving nonreinforced preexposure and sham operates receiving preexposure. The interaction of nonreinforced preexposure and lateral septal lesions can be explained using a proposed sensitization hypothesis.
Acute New World cutaneous leishmaniasis presenting as tuberculoid granulomatous dermatitis

Acute primary cutaneous leishmaniasis typically presents microscopically with a lymphohistiocytic infiltrate containing admixed plasma cells, parasitized macrophages and abundant organisms. Tuberculoid granulomatous changes may occur in the later phases of primary infection. A 23-year-old male presented 1 month after visiting Peru with classic clinical findings of acute primary cutaneous leishmaniasis, while histopathology showed a tuberculoid granulomatous process that lacked any organisms in hematoxylin–eosin and fungal stains. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis and tissue cultures confirmed the diagnosis of cutaneous leishmaniasis with Leishmania (Viannia) panamensis infection. A pauci-organism tuberculoid granulomatous process may uncommonly be the presenting histopathology in the acute infectious phase of cutaneous leishmaniasis. Clinicians and dermatopathologists should be aware of this atypical presentation, which may cause diagnostic confusion and delay proper treatment. PCR testing should be employed in cases with high clinical suspicion when histopathology is not definitive. Miller DD, Gilchrest BA, Garg A, Goldberg LJ, Bhawan J. Acute New World cutaneous leishmaniasis presenting as tuberculoid granulomatous dermatitis.
On-chip intrinsic evolution methodology for sequential logic circuit design

This paper focuses on the application of Virtual Reconfigurable Circuit (VRC) design methodology and intrinsic evolution for the design of small sequential circuits and their implementation on a single programmable chip with an embedded hardcore processor. The evolutionary algorithm is developed in software that runs on the embedded processor. Fitness function is calculated using hardware architecture and is used to guide the evolution process. This new method is applied to the development of a 3-bit sequence detector and the evolved architecture is implemented on a Xilinxtm Virtex-II pro device. Simulations were run on the evolved architecture and on the same circuit designed using conventional Hardware Descriptive Language (HDL). Both designs showed the same functional behavior. Synthesis results show that the new method can be used in successfully implementing small sequential circuits on a reconfigurable hardware environment.
Retrospective Serosurvey for Human Granulocytic Ehrlichiosis Agent in Urban White-footed Mice from Maryland

Archived serum samples from 111 Peromyscus leucopus, collected 1984–88 in Baltimore City (Maryland, USA), were analyzed by indirect immunofluorescence assay. Sera from two (2%) individuals contained antibodies reactive to Ehrlichia equi and the human granulocytic ehrlichiosis (HGE) agent. This suggests that the HGE agent or an antigenically related organism has been present in rodent populations in this locality for more than a decade, and was present in the region at least 12 yr before a case of human disease was recognized.
Immune reconstitution in recipients of photodepleted HLA-identical sibling donor stem cell transplantations: T cell subset frequencies predict outcome.

We evaluated an ex vivo photodepletion (PD) technique to selectively deplete graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) alloreacting T cells given to 24 human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-identical sibling stem cell transplantation (SCT) recipients. Donor lymphocytes were activated by 72-hour exposure to irradiated in vitro expanded recipient T lymphocytes and pulsed with a TH9402 photosensitizer. Alloactivated T cells preferentially retaining the photosensitizer were eliminated by light exposure. The PD product showed an inverted CD4+/CD8+ ratio with greatest depletion occurring in the CD4+ naive and central memory populations. In contrast, the CD8+ naive and effector cells were relatively conserved, reflecting the differential extrusion of TH9402 by T cell subsets. Cytomegalovirus reactive T cells were reduced in the PD product and in recipient blood 100 days after SCT when compared with contemporaneous HLA-identical sibling donor T cell-depleted SCT recipients. Although PD SCT recipients experienced similar absolute lymphocyte counts during the first 100 days after SCT, they achieved 100% donor T cell chimerism more rapidly and had higher CD8+ naive T cell counts early after SCT. SCT recipients of PD products with the lowest CD4 central memory content had the highest risk of developing chronic GVHD (cGVHD) (P = .04) and a poorer survival (P = .03). Although the persistence of CD8+ naive T cells may have contributed to important antileukemia responses resulting in a relatively low relapse rate, our findings emphasize the role of donor memory T cells and CD4 cells in establishing immune competence post-SCT. Although PD is associated with excellent outcomes in the haploidentical setting, the low frequency of alloactivations in HLA-matched pairs makes the PD approach used by our group for allodepletion in HLA-matched sibling transplantations an inefficient technique.
Methodological Considerations for Geriatric Drug Testing (Phase 1 and 2 Trials)

Methodological considerations for research in geriatric clinical pharmacology that have pertinence for Phase 1 and 2 drug testing in elderly subjects and patients are discussed. Such considerations include study design, subject recruitment, feasibility, data analysis, and reporting.
A Test of Alcohol Dose Effects on Multiple Behavioral Measures of Impulsivity

Background Acute alcohol administration affects impulsive behavior, although these effects vary as a function of alcohol dose, assessment instrument, and time of measurement following administration.
A MOMENT PROBLEM

Let ν be a discrete random variable taking on nonnegative integer values and set P {ν = κ} = P k , κ = 0, 1, hellip. Suppose that the binomial moments are finite. Frequently the problem arises under what conditions the probabilities P k , k = 0, 1,…, can be determined uniquely by the sequence of moments B r , r = 0, 1,…, and how it can be done.
Tumor necrosis factor α release in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of cutaneous lupus and dermatomyositis patients

Introduction Several studies have reported that TNFα is substantially increased within skin lesions of patients with discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE), subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus (SCLE) and dermatomyositis (DM) compared to controls. Elevated TNFα has been reported in the sera of some patients with systemic lupus erythematosus, DLE and SCLE, but not in the sera of patients with DM. Because of the key pathogenic role of autoimmunity in these diseases, in this study we sought to evaluate TNFα production by a readily available source of immune cells (namely, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs)) taken from controls and from patients with cutaneous lupus or DM.
Artifacts and collaborative work in healthcare: methodological, theoretical, and technological implications of the tangible

Although modeled as knowledge work with emphasis on data flow and decision making, healthcare is delivered in the context of a highly structured physical environment, with much effort and emphasis placed on physical and spatial arrangement and re-arrangement of workers, patients, and materials. The tangible aspects of highly collaborative healthcare work have profound implications for research and development of information and communication technology (ICT) despite the tendency to model work as flow of abstract data items. This article reviews field studies in healthcare and other domains on the role of artifacts in collaborative work and draws implications in three areas: methodological, theoretical, and technological. In regard to methodologies, assessment of new ICT and development of user requirements should take into account how artifacts are used and exploited to facilitate collaborative work. In regard to theories, the framework of distributed cognition provides a starting point for modeling the contribution and exploitation of physical artifacts in supporting collaborative work. In regard to technology, design and deployment of new technology should support the functions provided by physical artifacts replaced or disrupted by new technology, and profitable ways for new technology to support collaborative work by embedding ICT into existing infrastructure of physical artifacts.
Phase equilibria of polyaromatic hydrocarbons by hybrid Monte Carlo Wang–Landau simulations

Using a combination of hybrid Monte Carlo simulations in the isothermal–isobaric ensemble with a Wang–Landau sampling, we parametrise a force field for polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). The proposed force field gives an accurate description of the vapour–liquid equilibria of naphthalene, phenanthrene and anthracene. In particular, the model yields a better account of the dependence of the vapour pressure on temperature than existing models. The strategy adopted in this work is markedly different from that followed in previous work, which relied on Gibbs Ensemble Monte Carlo (GEMC) simulations combined with configurational bias (CB) moves. The accuracy of the GEMC-CB method hinges on a reasonably high acceptance rate of the transfer of molecules from one phase to another, a condition difficult to achieve for large molecules like PAHs. Our approach avoids these transfers, allows for a direct determination of the coexistence data in the isothermal–isobaric ensemble and provides a promising alternative to the...
Concepts of Illness in Children: A Comparison Between Children With and Without Intellectual Disability

Abstract The present study explored concepts of illness held by children with intellectual disability (ID) and compared them with the beliefs of two comparison groups of typically developing childr...
The value of international perspectives in orthopaedics

It was 1997. I was at the end of my residency in the United States and was heading to the Rizzoli Orthopaedic Institute for a fellowship in Orthopaedic Oncology under the famed Professor Mario Campanacci. I thought I had received some pretty good training by the end of my residency at an excellent program in the United States. Based on that education, I held some truths to be selfevident. Any open fracture had to go to the operating room within 6 hours. Cement from failed total hips was painstakingly removed from the femoral canal using long specialized osteotomes or ultrasonic wands. Revision implants were either long cemented stems or Anatomic Medullary Locking (AML, Depuy-Synthes, Warsaw, IN) type cylindrical devices made of porous coated cobalt chrome alloy. Indeed, I had been taught a pretty long list of how to do things and that list left very little room for alternatives. At the Rizzoli, however, things were a little different. Uncomplicated open fractures were initially treated with intravenous antibiotics, irrigated in the Emergency Department and splinted for delayed ORIF. Implant and cement removal was performed through extended trochanteric osteotomies with great ease. Bone friendly titaniumwas the favored metal over cobalt chrome alloys. Tapered, splined, on-growth Wagner style stems with narrow proximal
Measuring Community Integration in Persons With Limb Trauma and Amputation: A Systematic Review.

Abstract Objectives To conduct a systematic review of community integration measures used with populations with limb trauma, amputation, or both, and to evaluate each measure's focus, content, and psychometric properties. Data Sources Searches of PubMed and CINAHL for the terms social participation , community integration , social function , outcome assessment , wounds and injuries , and amputation/rehabilitation . Study Selection Included English-language articles with a sample size of ≥20 adults with limb trauma or amputation. Measures were deemed eligible if they contained a majority of items related to the construct of participation as defined by the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health . Data Extraction Data on internal consistency; test-retest, interrater, and intrarater reliability; content, structural, construct, concurrent, and predictive validity; responsiveness; and floor/ceiling effects were extracted from each article and confirmed by a second investigator. Data Synthesis A total of 156 articles containing 34 measures and 94 subscales were reviewed. Psychometric properties were rated, and an overall score was calculated for each measure. Content of the highest scoring measures was examined. Scant evidence was found regarding the psychometric properties of most measures. Eight scales from 5 instruments had the strongest measurement properties: the Trinity Amputation and Prosthesis Experience (TAPES) social restriction and adjustment to limitation scales; Community Reintegration of Injured Service Members (CRIS) extent of participation and perceived limitations scales; Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) role-physical and social functioning scales; the 136-item Sickness Impact Profile (SIP) psychosocial domain scale; and the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0 (WHODAS-II) 12-item total score. Conclusions Eights scales from 5 instruments—the TAPES, CRIS, SF-36, the 136-item SIP, and the WHODAS-II 12-item measure—had the strongest measurement properties.
Chinch bug: damage and effects of host plant and photoperiod

Female Blissus leucopterus leucopterus (Say) laid significantly more eggs on sorghum than wheat or corn. More eggs were laid on barley than wheat or corn and less than on sorghum, but numbers were not significantly different. Percentages of eggs hatched and longevity of both sexes on the 4 host plants did not differ. Nymphs developed to the adult stage significantly faster on sorghum than on corn, barley, or wheat, which did not differ significantly from each other. Males developed to the adult stage significantly faster than females but female adults lived significantly longer than males. Last instar nymphs killed seedling sorghum in significantly fewer days than males or females collected from overwintering sites. Overwintering male and female adults with a one week pretest feeding and newly emerged females killed plants in significantly fewer days than newly emerged males or males and females from overwintering sites with no pretest feeding. Chinch bugs collected from the field Sept. 6, Sept. 21, and Oct. 3 and confined to a 16-h photophase actively fed and mated and females laid eggs while those confined to an 8-h photophase did not. This is the first demonstration of a photoperiod induced diapause in this species.
Effects of Social Ties on Self-rated Physical Health Among African American Adults

Abstract Objectives To examine associations between social ties and self-rated physical health among midlife and older African Americans. Methods Cross-sectional analysis of the 2005-2006 Milwaukee African American oversample of the second Midlife Development in the United States (MIDUS II) study. Multivariate logistic regression examined associations between type of social ties (family or friends), their frequency (number of contacts), and their quality (support and strain) with better self-rated physical health (SRPH). We defined better SRPH to include self-reports of good, very good, or excellent SRPH; this category was compared with fair or poor SRPH. Control variables included demographic factors; social engagement characteristics such as working, volunteering, and caregiving; and measures of social structure such as types of discrimination experience and ratings of neighborhood quality. Results In adjusted results, each additional degree of family support was associated with better self-rated physical health (odds ratio [OR], 1.59; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.14-2.22). Each additional reported incident of daily discrimination was associated with 9% lower odds of reporting better SRPH (OR, 0.91; CI, 0.83-0.99). Discussion Results suggest quality of family support may contribute importantly to the health of African Americans. When working with midlife and older African Americans, providers should engage and support families as a vital resource to improve health.
Energy Security, Water Resources and Economic Development in Central Asia

Central Asia is one of the world’s most prominent regions for hydrocarbon resources. There are large territories still to be explored with high potential, though oil and gas have already been extracted for a hundred years. The region is open to foreign investments, but several issues arise from the past. The breakup of the Soviet Union has not automatically overcome infrastructural dependence. The Russian monopoly on pipelines is in opposition to the interests and the prospective investments of multinational energy companies. The programme for alternative pipelines is, therefore, a technological as well as a geopolitical matter, where international actors and local actors are involved. Central Asia is of strategic importance in terms of international security because of its history, coming from the influence of Russian power, and its geography, with borders with Afghanistan, Iran, China and the Russian Federation. Central Asia, with its large energy resources, seems to be an opportunity also for large energy consumers as evinced by the strong competition between the EU and China to secure supplies from the region. Moreover, the trade in energy commodities and technologies is crucial for the economy of Central Asia and its adapation to climate change. Economic development and environmental protection are often disjoined in the policies of the region. One reason flows from the pressure on the Central Asian economies to maximize their economic advantages as energy exporters, if any societal progress is to be made. The Central Asian Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) Programme, which is a partnership of nine countries, places its priorities on trade policy and energy. The final goal is to achieve poverty reduction through accelerated economic growth. Another factor is represented by the interests of global players in securing supplies against environmental considerations. Several regional organizations which have no significant focus on climate change are operating in the region, some strongly influenced by Russia, such as the Eurasian Economic Community (EurAsEC) and the Eurasian Economic Union, and some by China, such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). It is largely left to the Regional Environmental Centre for Central Asia to play a regional role in supporting environmental protection. The analysis will focus on Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia.
The Mini-Open Pedicle Subtraction Osteotomy for Flat-Back Syndrome and Kyphosis Correction: Operative Technique.

Background The pedicle subtraction osteotomy (PSO) has been a mainstay treatment for flat-back syndrome. The morbidity of open deformity correction can be high, and minimally invasive applications may reduce such morbidity. Objective To describe an operative technique of the mini-open PSO. Methods Two patients underwent percutaneous fixation above and below the PSO, and the PSO was performed in a mini-open fashion. The correction was obtained by cantilever. Results The patient who underwent the L3 PSO had a prior fusion from T11 to L4 for scoliosis 35 years ago. On presentation at 62 years of age, he had a pelvic incidence of 54°, lumbar lordosis of 23°, sagittal vertical axis of +14 cm, and pelvic tilt of 25°. He underwent an anterior lumbar interbody fusion at L5-S1 followed by a min-open L3 PSO. He had a postoperative lumbar lordosis of 64° (correction of 41°), and his sagittal vertical axis went to +3 cm. His Oswestry Disability Index and visual analog scale scores decreased after surgery. The second patient was 64 years of age and underwent an L1 PSO. He had 43° of kyphosis from T10 to L2. He had a preoperative pelvic incidence of 63°, lumbar lordosis of 35°, pelvic tilt of 24°, and sagittal vertical axis of 3 cm. His postoperative kyphosis improved from 43° to 32°. Conclusion The mini-open PSO can achieve significant lordosis, although it is heavily reliant on anterior arthrodesis. Larger studies are needed to compare this approach with an open PSO.
Experiences with Medical-Legal EEG

ABSTRACT.It is a fact of modern medicine, that physicians can expect to be called to testify in court as expert witnesses. Medical-legal neurophysiology can be relatively painless if the practitioner approaches the experience with some foreknowledge of what to expect. A common reason for electroencephalographers to be brought into court is to testify whether a neurological problem is a result of an injury. In a typical scenario, the physician will be asked by an attorney to testify in a particular case. A physician agreeing to serve will then need to carefully review the medical file on the patient, taking complete notes on any items of importance to the expert testimony. Once the file is reviewed, the physician should have a conference with the lawyer to review the pertinent findings. Usually a deposition is taken from the physician, with the opposing attorney asking most of the questions. A pretrial conference between the hiring attorney and the physician is critical to avoid unpleasant surprises during...
Long-term plant persistence on highly acidic soils amended with organic materials in two climatic zones

Little information is available on long-term plant persistence and invasion on amended pyritic soils. This study evaluated the persistence of cool- and warm-season plants grown in two climatic zones on amended acidic soils (pH 3.0 or less) disturbed by large earth-moving operations constructing or widening waterways. Soils in both studies were amended with lime and organic materials (sewage sludge at 100 t ha-1 or chicken manure at 80 t ha-1), which increased pH and improved soil fertility. The results show that organic soil amendments are beneficial for establishing and maintaining a plant cover on highly acidic soils. The plants originally sown, however, did not always persist. The type of invading species depended on the kind of organic amendment applied. When chicken manure was applied, invading plants initially included weedy grasses and later included plants growing in adjacent plots and other perennial species; in the sludge site, plant invasion was primarily from adjacent study areas. In the warm-humid climate (Mississippi), serecia lespedeza was the most effective coloniser after four years, even without heavy applications of organic soil amendments. This plant later spread into areas sown to either bahiagrass or weeping lovegrass, which were not as persistent. Kentucky bluegrass was the most persistent species in the northern climate (Delaware) after seven years, with a mean soil cover of 81%. This species was followed by tall fescue at 53% and the cultivars of fine fescues at 22%. The ryegrasses and bentgrasses did not persist.