cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Perceived Use and Acceptance of Cloud Enterprise Resource Planning ERP Implementation in the Manufacturing Industries

The purpose of this study was to gain an insight into perceived use and acceptance for implementing an enterprise resource planning ERP system and the decision whether to contract out the ERP service to a cloud provider. A non-experimental, quantitative method of analysis was used for this research and a survey instrument developed by Venkatesh 2003 was used to gather data from information technology professionals in the United States. The data generated were tested using Chi Square and Multiple Regression. Chi square was used to test the hypotheses and the result establishes a pertinent relationship between the dependent variable and the independent variables. Multiple regression analysis was also conducted on the four independent variables and all of the independent variables tested have a p-value that is greater than 0.05 p>0.05. Hence, it was concluded that the null hypothesis be accepted for all the four independent variables tested.
Plastic Surgery for the Nonplastic Surgeon in the Low-Resource Setting

There are many conditions, both congenital and acquired, that require reconstruction in the low-resource setting (LRS). Unfortunately, many of these are neglected for months or even years, often with severe psychological consequences. Causes for delayed care include lack of finances and lack of good hospitals and qualified specialists within a reasonable distance. Cleft lip and palate are often promptly addressed by many visiting teams. Local doctors have learned cleft lip surgery from these visitors and from trainers with Smile Train. Regrettably, local surgeons or visiting surgeons are not well trained in caring for other unique conditions that are often seen in these settings such as burn contractures and chronic lower extremity wounds. In addition, trained therapists to care for these conditions and upper extremity burns and injuries are scarce.
Active Changes in Tone in the Canine Vena Cava

Active changes in tone of the superior vena cava were studied in dogs several days after recovery from surgery. The diameter was measured continuously by sonar technique and distending pressure by Silastic cannulas. An occlusion cuff at the junction of the superior vena cava and atrium generated a passive range of pressure-radius data in the control state. Interventions included catecholamine infusion, fright, and exercise. In most instances, active constriction with norepinephrine could be shown by a pressure-radius curve that was steeper and displaced toward the pressure axis. The constricted curves were frequently, but not invariably, sigmoid, whereas control occlusion curves were arcuate. Isoproterenol also produced active constriction of the superior vena cava, as did fright and moderate exercise.
21 – Chromatin Folding and Recombination

Abstract The large size and complexity of the antigen receptor loci and their important role in the adaptive immune system have provided a fertile ground for studies involving gene regulation. The initial work on these loci focused on the function of cis acting regulatory elements in the context of a linear genome. More recently however, many labs have concentrated their efforts in determining how the three-dimensional structure of these loci contributes to their regulation. These studies demonstrate that chromatin organization plays a fundamental role in influencing the outcome of recombination. In particular, they underscore the importance of chromatin folding in maximizing antigen receptor diversity through spatiotemporal alterations that promote or restrict access of the recombinase enzyme to different regions of the loci. Here, we focus on studies that delve into the mechanisms underlying this control. In addition, we discuss new findings that demonstrate how nuclear organization restricts recombinasing activating gene (RAG) off-target cleavage.
Biosynthesis of the Antibiotic Bicyclomycin in Soil and Pathogenic Bacteria.

Abstract A comparison of effects of two hypocholesterolemic drugs--mevinolin and glycyrrhizinic acid, on cholesterol and bile acid metabolism in cultured rabbit hepatocytes has been carried out. The following parameters have been determined: i) cholesterol synthesis from [2-14C]acetate; ii) bile acid production from newly synthesized and [4-14C]-labeled HDL2 cholesterol, and, iii) total cholesterol efflux into the incubation medium Mevinolin (0.5 microgram/ml) inhibited [2-14C] acetate incorporation into cholesterol by more than 90%. Conversely, glycyrrhizinic acid did not influence cholesterol synthesis even when used at high (100 micrograms/ml) concentrations but stimulated the conversion of endogenous (by 37%) and exogenous (by 18%) cholesterol into bile acids and increased, in addition, the proportion of bile acids in the total sterol pool released from hepatocytes into the incubation medium. At the same time, mevinolin used at 0.5 microgram/ml decreased the bile acid production by endogenous (by 27%) and exogenous (by 40%) cholesterol. The data obtained suggest that glycyrrhizinic acid exerts hypocholesterolemic action by stimulation of cholesterol conversion into bile acids without any effect on cholesterol synthesis. As for mevinolin, it has a cholesterol-suppressing effect via a mechanism of cholesterol synthesis inhibition only.
Growth and Rupture Risk of Small Unruptured Intracranial Aneurysms

Small intracranial aneurysms are sometimes detected incidentally on brain imaging. This systematic review of 26 observational studies assesses and summarizes evidence about the growth and rupture r...
Intentional tanning behaviors among undergraduates on the United States' Gulf Coast.

Rates of melanoma have dramatically increased among adolescents and young adults in recent years, particularly among young women. Exposure to ultraviolet radiation from intentional tanning practices is likely a major contributor to this epidemic. Southern and coastal regions have higher melanoma mortality rates among non-Hispanic whites in other parts of the U.S., yet little is known about tanning practices of adolescents and young adults in these regions. This study determines the prevalence and methods of intentional tanning utilized by an undergraduate population located on the United States’ Gulf Coast. Undergraduate students enrolled at a university on the Gulf Coast completed an online survey from March–April 2016, self-reporting their engagement, knowledge, and attitudes regarding outdoor tanning (OT), indoor tanning (IT) and spray tanning (ST). Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify factors associated with tanning behaviors. 2668 undergraduates completed the survey. Of these, 64.9% reported OT tanning, 50.7% reported ever IT, and 21.2% reported ever ST. In the largest study to date of intentional tanning behaviors of adolescents and young adults from coastal regions, we found high rates of intentional tanning behaviors. There was also significant engagement in spray tanning by this population, not previously reported for adolescents and young adults in a sample of this size. We also identified a high association between different tanning methods, indicating this population engages in multiple tanning behaviors, a phenomenon whose health consequences are not yet known.
Incident Prediction and Response Optimization

In urban areas across the globe, incidents like crime, fire and accidents often result in massive losses of life and property. In such scenarios, quick response can minimize or prevent damage. Emergency responder services are eager to adopt mechanisms that aid real-time decision making in the field. With limited resources however, it is imperative that resource allocation and dispatch decision are taken in a systematic and principled manner. This problem gives rise to challenges that are both technically intriguing and have immense applicability in practice. In this paper, I describe how my research seeks to identify problems in this space and addresses them. I also describe some of the existing challenges in the domain and potential approaches that could be used to tackle such problems.
Study’s conclusion about screening is unwarranted

Although Parkes et al’s study is interesting,1 the only conclusion is that for asymptomatic smokers who undergo spirometry, communication about lung age is …
Variation and Transfer in English Creole—Standard English Language Learning

This chapter examines the nature. of errors in the written standard English of native speakers of an English Creole, with particular attention to the sources of variation in errors. Presented are the findings of a previous macrostudy on the number and nature of errors in written English compositions of secondary school students in Trinidad, West Indies. A microstudy of a small subset of these compositions is then used to illustrate sources of errors, particularly negative transfer, in a creole/related standard language situation. Implications for appropriate language teaching approaches in this situation are discussed.
Andropause:: an old concept in new clothing

There is increasing evidence that the common condition of hypogonadism in older men when associated with symptoms responds well to testosterone replacement. Over the last few years there has been a marked increase in the awareness and treatment of the andropause [137]. Long-term side effects of testosterone are uncertain with only eight people over 50 years having been studied for 10 years [138]. Testosterone needs to be considered a quality-of-life drug, similar to sildenafil, and at present it should be used only if it produces symptomatic improvement. There is a need for a men's health study to determine the long-term efficacy and safety of testosterone replacement in older persons.
Oncogenic Transgenic Mice in the Study of Carcinogenesis

Many types of chemical carcinogens induce tumors in animals and humans. The study of chemical carcinogenesis consists of two elements: one is to study the mechanism of oncogenesis, and the other to examine the carcinogenic potential of chemicals. The research on carcinogenic mechanisms explores a multistep series of events of carcinogenesis, environmental and endogenous factors, and various genes and transcriptional elements (1,2). Research on the carcinogenic potential of chemicals aims to detect and estimate the risk to humans in a quantitative manner. For these studies, various animal models have been developed and used. Furthermore, rapid development of the field of molecular biology during the last decade has led to the findings of genes responsible for cancers and to the construction of transgenic animals by transferring genes between species (3-5). Transgenic animals which have received oncogenes have been researched for the study of oncogenesis (see reviews 6,7). So far, in spite of their great potential, utilization of transgenic animals for carcinogenic risk assessments has been extremely rare. The purpose of this review is to examine the various aspect of transgenic mice carrying oncogenes and to explore their possible utilization of transgenic mice for the study of the carcinogenic potential of chemicals.
Pathogenesis of Esophageal Cancer

Worldwide, esophageal cancer is most common in Asia, primarily Northern Iran, Central Asia, and Northern China. The majority of esophageal cancers in Asia, histologically, are squamous cell carcinoma. In Western countries only a third of carcinomas represent squamous cell carcinoma, where the majority of cancers, histologically, are adenocarcinoma. The differences in pathogenesis of esophageal cancer in Asia versus Western countries may be due to differences in environmental and lifestyle habits. Genetic differences may also come into play as China becomes more westernized but, even with the westernization, Barrett’s esophagus and adenocarcinoma remain uncommon.
Murine models of Sjogren's syndrome

Sjogren’s syndrome is characterized by dry eyes and a dry mouth, due to mononuclear inflammatory cell infiltration into the lacrimal and salivary glands, resulting in glandular dysfunction. While its etiology is unknown, Sjogren’s syndrome is felt to be an autoimmune disorder, as evidenced by its association with autoantibodies and with other systemic connective tissue disorders. Sjogren’s syndrome may occur by itself, in which case it is termed primary Sjogren’s syndrome, or an association with another, defined, connective tissue disease, in which case it is termed secondary Sjogren’s syndrome. Those connective tissue disorders most commonly associated with secondary Sjogren’s syndrome include rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and scleroderma. Serologically, patients with Sjogren’s often have rheumatoid factor, antinuclear antibodies (ANA), and antibodies to Ro (SS-A) and La (SS-B).1
Experimental comparison of spherically bent HAPG and Ge crystals.

The Orion high-resolution X-ray (OHREX) imaging spherically bent crystal spectrometer, operated with both image plates and CCD cameras, provides time-averaged plasma diagnostics through high-resolution spectroscopy with good signal-to-noise at the Orion laser facility. In order to provide time-resolved spectra, the OHREX will be outfitted with a streak camera, and in this case, even higher signal to noise will be desired. Using the OHREX’s sister instrument, the EBIT High-resolution X-ray (EBHiX) spectrometer, at the LLNL electron beam ion trap EBIT-I, we therefore compare the efficiency of a high-quality Ge (111) crystal (2d = 6.532 A) with that of a higher integrated reflectivity, but lower-resolution highly annealed pyrolytic graphite (HAPG) crystal (2d = 6.708 A) in the energy range 2408–2452 eV. We find that the HAPG provides overall more signal across the entire image; however, because of the much better focusing properties of the Ge crystal, the latter provides more signal within the central 100 μm of the spatial profile in the cross-dispersion direction and is thus more suitable for the narrow entrance window of the Livermore-built streak camera.
Changing predictors of statin initiation in US women over two decades.

PURPOSE To describe changing roles of predictors of statin initiation before and after incident coronary heart disease, and before and after publication of National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel-III (ATP-III) guidelines in a cohort of US women. METHODS We identified 34 382 women enrolled into the Women's Health Study from 1993 to 1995 and followed up until 2012. Proportions of previous nonusers initiating statins were described over time. We used multivariable linear regression models to estimate adjusted initiation proportion differences (IPDs) for initiation overall, separately before and after incident coronary heart disease, and separately for ATP-II and ATP-III time periods. RESULTS Key predictors of initiation overall were self-reported total cholesterol, and previous incident coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, and diabetes. Adjusted IPDs (percentage) for total cholesterol > 240 vs <200 mg/dL were 7.5 (95% confidence interval [CI], 7.0-8.0) and 9.3 (95% CI, 8.7-9.9) during ATP-II and ATP-III time periods, respectively. Adjusted IPDs in women with diabetes were 7.0 (95% CI, 6.3-7.8) and 11.9 (95% CI, 6.7-17.0) for primary and secondary prevention, respectively, and 3.1 (95% CI, 2.1-4.0) and 9.2 (95% CI 8.2-10.2) for before and after ATP-III, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Secular trends reflected evolution toward risk factor-based treatment indications for statin initiation with increased initiation among diabetics and women with normal and borderline cholesterol. The role of serum cholesterol changed over time, though the character was scale (multiplicative vs additive) dependent. In pharmacoepidemiologic studies of statins, strength of confounding by important variables sometimes unmeasured in claims data, such as cholesterol level, may be calendar time dependent.
Triplet Pair States in Singlet Fission

This account aims at providing an understanding of singlet fission, i.e., the photophysical process of a singlet state (S1) splitting into two triplet states (2 × T1) in molecular chromophores. Since its discovery 50 years ago, the field of singlet fission has enjoyed rapid expansion in the past 8 years. However, there have been lingering confusion and debates on the nature of the all-important triplet pair intermediate states and the definition of singlet fission rates. Here we clarify the confusion from both theoretical and experimental perspectives. We distinguish the triplet pair state that maintains electronic coherence between the two constituent triplets, 1(TT), from one which does not, 1(T···T). Only the rate of formation of 1(T···T) is defined as that of singlet fission. We present distinct experimental evidence for 1(TT), whose formation may occur via incoherent and/or vibronic coherent mechanisms. We discuss the challenges in treating singlet fission beyond the dimer approximation, in understan...
Balancing Access to Medications and Psychosocial Treatments

Despite a noted patient preference for psychosocial treatments (defined here as psychotherapy, counseling, coaching, and case management), people receiving mental health care in the United States are more likely to be treated with medications than they are with psychosocial treatments. While there are problems with inappropriate use of medications, including both undertreatment and overtreatment, there is little doubt that psychosocial treatments are underused, and that is the focus of this chapter. The disconnect between patient preferences and services used is due to several policy-level factors. There is no shared consensus or viable information source to determine which psychosocial treatments are evidence-based, clinician training is poorly regulated, credentialing and licensure practices often are not competency based, location of care is inconvenient, it is complicated to measure quality of care, and there are no incentives to offer evidence-based treatment. In this chapter, we discuss these limitations and offer examples of successful programs that specifically address these problems. We end with a series of recommendations to policy makers in the United States to ensure patients with mental health challenges are guaranteed access to the treatments they need and prefer.
Pancreas after kidney transplantation

Abstract For patients with kidney failure due to diabetes, pancreas transplantation is often considered in addition to kidney transplantation to provide optimal glycemic control. Most commonly, this is accomplished via simultaneous pancreas-kidney (SPK) transplantation. Sequential pancreas after kidney (PAK) transplantation, following either a living or deceased donor kidney transplant, is another viable option and may be the preferred approach for certain patients. With improved graft survival, PAK is a viable option for patients with a living donor for kidney transplantation. Here, we discuss the benefits and decision-making surrounding SPK versus PAK.
Pathways to Sustainable Agricultural Development

In this chapter, we describe the design and implementation of more sustainable development pathways based on two components. Participatory processes choose indicators and set goals; and science-based tools evaluate system performance along the envisioned pathways. Implementation processes design technologies and policies that incentivize changes in the behavior of consumers and producers. The complexity of agricultural systems means there is no one-size-fits-all solutions to sustainable agricultural development. The political and governance challenges of implementation remain daunting. Yet, we are cautiously optimistic since the tools to design and implement more sustainable agricultural development pathways for both developing and industrialized countries are advancing rapidly and becoming widely available, creating opportunities for progress as citizens, businesses, and governments throughout the world recognize the imperative of sustainable development.
High-energy astrophysics with CETUS: a UV space telescope concept

CETUS (“Cosmic Evolution Through Ultraviolet Spectroscopy”) is a mission concept that was selected by NASA for study as a Probe-class mission, meaning a mission whose full life-cycle cost to NASA is between $400M and $1.0B. CETUS is a wide-field UV telescope that will work with other survey telescopes observing at gamma-rays to radio waves to help solve major astrophysical problems. In this paper, we describe how CETUS will make observations of high-energy sources discussed by the 2010 Astrophysics Decadal Survey panel (Astro-2010) including the growth of nuclear black holes and their influence on their surroundings, mergers of neutron-star binaries and their aftermath, supernovae and their progenitors, the flows of matter and energy in the circumgalactic medium. CETUS is well equipped to study these energetic sources. We have chosen instrumentation for CETUS that includes a 1.5-m telescope and two wide-field survey instruments, a near-UV multi-object slit spectrograph (MOS), a near-UV/ far-UV camera. It also has a near-UV/far-UV imaging spectrograph to survey classes of astronomical objects one at a time.
A System for Simple Robotic Walking Assistance With Linear Impulses at the Center of Mass

Walking can be simplified as an inverted pendulum motion where both legs generate linear impulses to redirect the center of mass (COM) into every step. In this work, we describe a system to assist walking in a simpler way than exoskeletons by providing linear impulses directly at the COM instead of providing torques at the joints. We developed a novel waist end-effector and high-level controller for an existing cable-robot. The controller allows for the application of cyclic horizontal force profiles with desired magnitudes, timings, and durations based on detection of the step timing. By selecting a lightweight rubber series elastic element with optimal stiffness and carefully tuning the gains of the closed-loop proportional–integral–derivative (PID) controller in a number of single-subject experiments, we were able to reduce the within-step root mean square error between desired and actual forces up to 1.21% of body weight. This level of error is similar or lower compared to the performance of other robotic tethers designed to provide variable or constant forces at the COM. The system can produce force profiles with peaks of up to 15 ± 2% of body weight within a root mean square error (RMSE) of 2.5% body weight. This system could be used to assist patient populations that require levels of assistance that are greater than current exoskeletons and in a way that does not make the user rely on vertical support.
Application of an atmospheric tracer ratio method to estimation of PM2.5 emission rates from wheat conveying operations at a wheat pile storage facility.

Particulate matter (PM) pollution is associated with adverse effects on human health and the environment. There is no designated PM2.5 emission factor for horizontal grain conveyors. Instead, in Wa...
Effect of fluorination and Li-excess on the Li migration barrier in Mn-based cathode materials

Disordered rocksalt (DRX) Li-rich transition metal (TM) oxides, especially those based on Mn, are prospective high-energy-density cathode materials for the next generation of Li-ion batteries that use earth abundant metals. Fluorine substitution on the oxygen sublattice has been shown to reduce oxygen redox by lowering the average anion valence and increasing the amount of redox-active TM, and simultaneously improve energy density, average voltage and capacity retention. While these benefits of fluorination are well established, it is not well understood how F affects Li transport and therefore the rate performance of Mn-based DRX cathodes. Herein, we investigate the effects of both F substitution and the accompanying Li-excess on Li migration barriers using first-principles calculations. We demonstrate that F has a small negative effect on Li migration barriers while Li-excess decreases Li migration barriers. Because fluorination enables more Li-excess, these results do not predict any detrimental impact on Li transport.
The role of microbiota in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (Allo-HSCT) is commonly performed to treat a variety of benign and malignant hematological diseases. Acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) is a m...
The Next Generation of Grounded Theorists Tells All

Grounded theory in all of its forms, variations, and extensions is one of the most widely practiced qualitative research methodologies. In a personal rendering, the contributors to Developing Grounded Theory: The Second Generation give an insider’s perspective that allows us not only to learn the commonalities and differences of this diverse family of methodologies, but also to meet the men and women who have contributed to its development and evolution.
Utilization of 3-T fetal magnetic resonance imaging in clinical practice: a single-institution experience

As the safety and efficacy of fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at 3 tesla (T) continues to evolve, understanding its potential benefits and limitations is becoming increasingly important. We aim to compare the image quality of fetal MRI between 1.5 T and 3 T in routine clinical practice. Fetal MRIs performed at 3 T between Jan. 1, 2019, and Dec. 31, 2019, at our institution were retrospectively reviewed by four fellowship-trained subspecialty radiologists. Imaging quality by system, sequence and artifacts were compared with matched controls at 1.5 T and rated using a modified Likert scale. Thirty-three fetal MRIs at 3 T were reviewed, and a control group of studies for the same clinical indication and equivalent gestational age were selected for comparison. Two of the four radiologists preferred 3-T image quality of the brain with slight agreement among the four reviewers (k=0.19, P=0.01). Three of the four radiologists had no preference for 1.5 T vs. 3 T in the majority of cases in evaluating the chest and abdomen. In the overall assessment, 3 T was preferred in less than half of cases by all four radiologists (k=0.07, P=0.26). In the evaluation of standing wave, moire fringe and magnetic susceptibility artifacts, 3 T was not preferred in the majority of studies by all four radiologists. Total exam time was significantly longer in the 3-T fetal MRIs (75.0±15.1 min) compared to the 1.5-T fetal MRIs (55.5±13.3 min, P<0.001). While 3 T is a feasible alternative to 1.5 T for fetal MRI, the increased artifacts and longer exam times observed at 3 T without clear improvement in overall image quality make 1.5 T preferable for fetal MRI in routine clinical practice.
Robustness Enhancement of the Floating NBL BCD Architecture: Parasitics Suppression and Addition of Partially Isolated Diode for Localized Voltage Control

The isolation capabilities of the Floating N-type Buried Layer (NBL) architecture are discussed and explained in reference to connected NBL. The non-deterministic NBL potential requires new considerations for lateral and vertical parasitics. These parasitics have been characterized and optimized to allow safe high voltage designs. The authors discuss dependencies of isolation capabilities with aspects like: anti-series diodes that are constructed from the NBL to the P-Epi upward and from the NBL to the P-substrate downward, parasitic bipolar gain and emitter injection efficiency in conjunction with SCR effects for cases where N-body is added to the stack, and the addition of lateral isolation to DTI to prevent a path for parasitic MOS along the DTI walls. Finally, it is shown how an isolated diode with Medium Trench Isolation (MTI) can be used to control the NBL potential to serve as a shield against electron injection from the substrate and to add additional robustness for SCR triggering.
Roles of calcitonin gene-related peptide in the skin, and other physiological and pathophysiological functions

Skin immunity is regulated by many mediator molecules. One is the neuropeptide calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP). CGRP has roles in regulating the function of components of the immune system including T cells, B cells, dendritic cells (DCs), endothelial cells (ECs), and mast cells (MCs). Herein we discuss actions of CGRP in mediating inflammatory and vascular effects in various cutaneous models and disorders.
Provitamin A Carotenoids as a Dietary Source of Vitamin A

Vitamin A deficiency (VAD) is an important public health problem that affects low-income populations in developing countries throughout the world.
Alexander Meiklejohn, American Constitutional Law and Australia's Implied Freedom of Political Communication

The historical Australian-American constitutional connection is reviewed along with a brief overview of Australia's implied freedom, in relation to the philosophy of Alexander Meiklejohn. It is found that Australia shares a tradition of developing constitutional law through a common law methodology with the US, but this common law methodology does not entail a commitment to any particular substantive vision of freedom of political communication.
Is the Sum Greater than the Parts? The Terms of Civil War Peace Agreements and the Commitment Problem Revisited

The dominant theoretical approaches to civil war negotiations in the field of political science have sought to explain both the scarcity and high failure rates of negotiated agreements in civil conflicts. This historical pattern, however, has fundamentally changed in the last two decades as changes in international norms and laws, as well as the increased prevalence and competence of peacebuilding professionals, now require conflict actors to have a greater commitment toward negotiations and the enforcement of agreements. While actors in interstate wars seek to avoid accountability, civil war actors seem to embrace the opportunities that these new dynamics create to achieve broad-based reforms across numerous areas of policy and government. The result, we suggest, is that stakeholders evaluate agreements based on their potential to accomplish an array of sociopolitical objectives. In addition, for strategic and practical reasons, they perceive that those agreements that include more reforms across multiple policy sectors will have the greatest potential. Our examination of nearly two hundred agreements found evidence that the peacemaking potential of a negotiated agreement between civil war adversaries is greatly enhanced when reforms are pursued across many different policy domains. Conversely, our analysis suggests that the greater the number of policy areas left untouched by a peace agreement, the more likely the stakeholders will be to follow that agreement with additional negotiations to enhance that agreement, or, alternatively, the more likely that violence will resume.
Sociodemographic disparities in choice of therapy and survival in advanced laryngeal cancer.

Abstract Purpose To determine if sociodemographic factors are associated with treatment choice and survival in patients with advanced stage laryngeal cancer in the U.S. Design/setting/subjects/methods Population-based, non-concurrent cohort study of 5381 patients diagnosed with stage III or IV laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma from 1992–2009. Data was extracted from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Main outcome(s) and measures Choice of therapy (surgical vs. non-surgical) and disease-specific survival (DSS). Results Age ≥ 60 years (odds ratio [OR] = 0.78; 95% CI, 0.70–0.88) and more recent year of diagnosis (OR = 0.89; 95% CI, 0.87–0.90) decreased the odds of receiving surgical therapy, while residing in a county with low median household income (OR = 1.36; 95% CI, 1.17–1.57) increased the odds of receiving surgical therapy. Age ≥ 60 years (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.45; 95% CI, 1.33–1.59) and Black race (HR = 1.14; 95% CI, 1.02–1.27) were negatively associated with DSS, while female sex (HR = 0.81; 95% CI, 0.72–0.90) and married status (HR = 0.69; 95% CI, 0.63–0.75) were positively associated with DSS. Conclusions and relevance For patients with advanced laryngeal cancer, younger age and residing in a low-income county increase the likelihood of receiving surgical therapy. Female sex and married status provide a survival benefit, while Black race appears to be a negative prognostic factor. This highlights the impact of sociodemographic factors on treatment strategies and outcomes and highlights areas for further research on health disparities.
Exposure-Reducing Behaviors Among Residents Living Near a Coal Ash Storage Site:

Coal ash, a waste product generated from burning coal for energy, is composed of highly respirable particles containing heavy metals, radioactive elements, and polycylic aromatic hydrocarbons. Coal ash is stored in landfills and surface impoundments frequently located near neighborhoods. Fugitive dust from the storage sites exposes neighborhoods, affecting the health and welfare of residents. The research questions of interest were (1) are community members concerned about coal ash exposure from the storage site; (2) what, if any, behaviors do community members engage in to reduce exposure; and (3) do exposure reducing behaviors differ by level of concern about coal ash. A community-based mixed-methods approach was used. Focus groups (n = 26) were conducted in 2012, and a cross-sectional survey was administered in 2013 (n = 231). The majority of survey respondents (62%) worried "a lot" about being exposed to coal ash; however, most did not engage in exposure-reducing behaviors, such as wearing protective equipment when doing chores. Compared with respondents who worry "some, very little, or none," or responded "I don't know," respondents who worried "a lot" about being exposed to coal ash did more exposure-reducing behaviors outdoors (p < .001) and indoors (p = .01). For people living near environmental hazards, reducing exposure is a priority. Although challenging because of the chronic nature of exposure, some behaviors can be useful in reducing exposure, such as wearing a particle-specific respirator when mowing the lawn. Communities at risk for chronic exposure to environmental toxins could benefit from education about exposure-reducing behaviors.
Primary gastroesophageal-ileal hodgkin lymphoma.

Abstract Primary Hodgkin lymphoma of the gastrointestinal tract is exceedingly rare to the point that some authors regard with skepticism the existence of this entity. Cases of gastrointestinal Hod...
In the Southern Retail Trade After 1865

After 1865 Southerners found their communities generally in a state of economic chaos. This was particularly true of the mercantile system. Before the war numerous small towns and villages were in the process of development, and the more localized system of merchandising was reaching out into the general trade. The merchants of the new stores were rapidly cutting into the virtually monopolistic control previously exercised by the system of cotton factorage on which the larger planters depended for supplies, for with the establishment of local stores, cotton planters looked more and more to their home merchants. During the four years of war these local stores were practically forced out of business by a lack of stock. The end of the war brought to the merchant a complete economic revolution. He was now to engage in a system of storekeeping which was unique in every respect except the name. Southern general stores became country stores whether they existed in the country or not, for the bulk of their trade was that of â€ countryâ€ supply.
Basis for tunneling theory of charge-density wave depinning

During the past few years, the theory of depining of charge-density waves in quasi-one-dimensional metals by quantum tunneling through a small pinning gap has been developed in a semi-phenomenological way through a close interaction between theory and experiment. A microscopic derivation is given that shows that a tunneling step is required if impurity pinning is included in zero order. It is incorrect to treat the effects of impurities by a perturbation expansion as has been done in classical theories of depinning. It is shown how the parameters of the theory are related to the Fukuyama-Lee-Rice model of weak impurity pinning by impurity fluctuations. Except near threshold, effects of disorder average out to give a nearly uniform current density. Expressions for the response to dc and ac fields derived from the microscopic theory are close to those given by the earlier semi-phenomenological theory.
Large-scale parallel topology optimization using a dual-primal substructuring solver

Parallel computing is an integral part of many scientific disciplines. In this paper, we discuss issues and difficulties arising when a state-of-the-art parallel linear solver is applied to topology optimization problems. Within the topology optimization framework, we cannot readjust domain decomposition to align with material decomposition, which leads to the deterioration of performance of the substructuring solver. We illustrate the difficulties with detailed condition number estimates and numerical studies. We also report the practical performances of finite element tearing and interconnection/dual–primal solver for topology optimization problems and our attempts to improve it by applying additional scaling and/or preconditioning strategies. The performance of the method is finally illustrated with large-scale topology optimization problems coming from different optimal design fields: compliance minimization, design of compliant mechanisms, and design of elastic surface wave-guides.
Foot-and-mouth disease virion RNA: studies on the relation between the length of its 3'-poly(A) segment and infectivity.

Abstract Intact 37 S RNA was extracted from foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) (type A12 strain 119) and fractionated into oligo(dT)-cellulose unbound and bound fractions. The RNA in each fraction appeared to contain no hidden breaks as determined by sucrose gradient centrifugation under denaturing conditions. Combined pancreatic RNase A and T1 digestion of [3H]adenosine-labeled unbound and bound virion RNA yielded, in both cases, a poly(A) fragment that migrated considerably faster than 4 S RNA during gel electrophoresis. The length of the poly(A) fragment of unbound virion RNA is less than 10 residues of adenosine, whereas the length of the poly(A) fragment of bound virion RNA contains a segment of approximately 40 residues at its 3′ end. The specific infectivity of unbound virion RNA is essentially the same as bound virion RNA.
CREATINE SYNTHESIS IN PERFUSED LIVER OF VITAMIN E-DEFICIENT RATS.

SummaryThe synthesis of creatine from glycocyamine was studied in the perfused livers of rats fed a stock diet, a diet deficient in vit. E and a diet deficient in vit. E but supplemented with a-tocopheryl acetate. No significant differences were found when creatine synthesis was compared in the 3 groups of animals. It is postulated that the inability of skeletal muscle to utilize creatine, rather than increased synthesis of creatine by the liver, is primarily responsible for the creatinuria observed in vit. E deficiency.
On the Existence of an Oscillatory Approach to Steady Natural Convection in Cavities

The recent paper by Patterson and Imberger [1], which analysed the transient phase of natural convection in low aspect ratio cavities, gave a criterion for the presence of an oscillatory approach to steady state in such flows. However, the experiments of Yewell et al. [3] displayed no evidence of this oscillatory approach, even though the criterion was apparently satisfied. In this paper, it is shown that since the flow regimes are described by a series of critical Rayleigh numbers, the ordering of which changes with changing aspect ratio, a criterion for the existence of transient internal waves, valid for all orderings, may be established. Further, the results of [1] are extended by means of flow descriptions valid for two additional orderings. Consequently, it is shown that the experiments addressed a transient flow regime in which internal wave activity would not be expected and that the experimental results are in support of the scaling analysis of [1].
Suspended-sediment response to semidiurnal and fortnightly tidal variations in a mesotidal estuary: Columbia River, U.S.A.

Abstract A turbidity maximum is the dominant feature of the suspended-sediment concentration field in the Columbia River Estuary, U.S.A. In this estuary, the turbidity maximum is an unsteady feature which changes on semidiurnal, fortnightly and seasonal time scales. In response to the semidiurnal tides, the turbidity maximum is advected landward and seaward and may have an excursion of approximately 20 km. In response to the fortnightly tidal variations, the turbidity maximum degenerates, or decreases in concentration, during neap tides and regenerates, or increases in concentration, during spring tides. Finally, in response to seasonal freshwater discharge variations, suspended-sediment concentrations in the turbidity maximum increase and its general location is pushed seaward during high discharge conditions and, conversely, concentrations decrease and its general location is farther landward during low discharge conditions. The magnitude of suspended-sediment concentration variations for these three time scales is similar. Therefore, any consideration of estuarine dynamics and the suspended-sediment concentration field in the Columbia River Estuary should include the semidiurnal and fortnightly time scales as well as the seasonal ones. Because the Columbia is a mesotidal estuary and fortnightly tidal variations are not extremely large, it is expected that these time scales (and associated processes) may be important in many other estuarine systems.
On risk, rationality and the predictive ability of European short-term adjusted yield spreads

Abstract In this paper, a rolling vector error correction model (VECM) is proposed to construct measures of the market's time-varying conditional expectations of the 3-month money rates starting 13 weeks hence for several major EMS member countries. VECM-based predictions provide the basis for computing ex-ante out-of-sample estimates of the term premia. These term premia are then used to adjust the yield spreads as a prelude to investigating their ability to predict future interest rates. The source(s) of the yield spread bias are discussed. While the expectations hypothesis is resoundingly rejected using the standard test specification, yield spreads adjusted for time-varying term premia are found to possess substantial predictive ability and, in many instances, the expectations hypothesis is not rejected. The robustness of the results across the different European money markets and sample periods is highly encouraging. The test results underscore the importance of incorporating into the test specification the equilibrium cointegrating constraints if they exist. (JEL G15). © 1997 Elsevier Science Ltd.
EFFECTS OF DELEGATED CHOICE ON PERFORMANCE

The delegation process has not been subjected to adequate scientific examination. This study examines the effects of delegated choice over scheduling of activities (ordering of events) and over selection of goals (degree of challenge). Subjects made financial predictions based upon accounting data as input. Prediction accuracy was the dependent measure. Interestingly, under some conditions, delegation of choice over scheduling activities backfired. There were initial positive effects, however, from delegating choice over the selection of goals. Clearly the aspect of the task being delegated appears important. One cannot assume allowing others choice over some aspects of the task will be associated with positive outcomes.
Mechanisms for the stability and instability in interconnected systems

The purpose of this paper is to provide a brief informal exposition of the main ideas underlying the stability and instability criteria which have appeared in the literature in the context of feedback systems, and to show how these ideas generalize in such a way that they become applicable to much more general classes of interconnected systems. We hope to transmit at the same time an intuitive explanation of these results, an indication of the limitations of these methods, and a demonstration of their generality. Since these methods conclude stability or instability of interconnected systems by considering the individual subsystems and the interconnection laws separately, they are very well suited for the analysis of large scale systems. Another appealing aspect of these results is the fact that they make contact with various other areas of system theory as, for example, least squares optimal control, Lyapunov stability theory, and passive network synthesis. For the sake of exposition and notation, we will limit our attention to stationary continuous time systems. The ideas are easily generalized to time-varying systems and we will in fact give a time-varying example in which these results are used.
Adipogenic and energy metabolism gene networks in longissimus lumborum during rapid post-weaning growth in Angus and Angus × Simmental cattle fed high-starch or low-starch diets

Transcriptional networks coordinate adipocyte differentiation and energy metabolism in rodents. The level of fiber and starch in diets with adequate energy content fed to young cattle has the potential to alter intramuscular adipose tissue development in skeletal muscle. Post-weaning alterations in gene expression networks driving adipogenesis, lipid filling, and intracellular energy metabolism provide a means to evaluate long-term effects of nutrition on longissimus muscle development across cattle types. Longissimus lumborum (LL) from Angus (n = 6) and Angus × Simmental (A × S; n = 6) steer calves (155 ± 10 days age) fed isonitrogenous high-starch (HiS; 1.43 Mcal/kg diet dry matter; n = 6) or low-starch (LoS; 1.19 Mcal/kg diet dry matter; n = 6) diets was biopsied at 0, 56, and 112 days of feeding for transcript profiling of 31 genes associated with aspects of adipogenesis and energy metabolism. Intake of dietary energy (9.44 ± 0.57 Mcal/d) across groups during the study did not differ but feed efficiency (weight gain/feed intake) during the first 56 days was greater for steers fed HiS. Expression of PPARG increased ca. 2-fold by day 56 primarily due to HiS in A × S steers. Several potential PPARG-target genes (e.g., ACACA, FASN, FABP4, SCD) increased 2.5-to-25-fold by day 56 across all groups, with responses (e.g., FASN, FABP4) being less pronounced in A × S steers fed LoS. This latter group of steers had markedly greater blood plasma glucose (0.99 vs. 0.79 g/L) and insulin (2.95 vs. 1.17 μg/L) by day 112, all of which were suggestive of insulin resistance. Interactions were observed for FABP4, FASN, GPAM, SCD, and DGAT2, such that feeding A × S steers high-starch and Angus steers low-starch resulted in greater fold-changes by day 56 or 112 (GPAM). Marked up-regulation of INSIG1 (4-to-8-fold) occurred throughout the study across all groups. SREBF1 expression, however, was only greater on day 112 namely due to LoS in A × S steers. The lipogenic transcription factor THRSP was 6-to-60-fold greater by day 56 primarily due to HiS in A × S steers, constituting the greatest response among all genes. Results involving gene markers of mature adipocytes (e.g., PPARG, THRSP, SCD) provided evidence of intramuscular adipose tissue differentiation during the early portion of the growing phase. The resulting gene networks underscored a central role for PPARG in controlling transcription of genes which are known to co-ordinately regulate adipocyte differentiation and lipid filling in non-ruminants. Unlike rodents, INSIG1 appears to play an important role in cattle muscle adipogenesis. We propose that a network of transcription regulators and nuclear receptors including PPARG-target genes, INSIG1, and THRSP, coordinate activation of adipocyte differentiation and lipid filling at an early age.