cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The importance of incorporating smoking cessation into lung cancer screening

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States (U.S.) and is the second most common non-skin cancer among men and women, accounting for about 30% of cancer-related deaths. There is clear and accumulating evidence that continued tobacco use has multiple adverse effects on cancer treatment outcomes, including greater probability of recurrence, second primary malignancies, reduced survival, greater symptom burden, and poorer quality of life (QOL). Recent findings suggest an avenue to significantly mitigate the impact of smoking on lung cancer mortality rates through the use of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) lung cancer screening. Based on the reviewed evidence (type B), the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) guidelines of 2015 recommend screening combined with smoking cessation interventions for high-risk heavy smokers and recent quitters. These practice changes offer opportunities to develop novel smoking cessation strategies tailored to highly specific settings that aim to amplify the survivorship gains expected from screening alone. However, there is a paucity of research and data that speaks to the feasibility and efficacy of providing smoking cessation treatment specifically within the context of the LDCT lung cancer screening environment. While some studies have attempted to characterize the parameters within which smoking cessation interventions should be implemented in this context, further research is needed to explore relevant factors such as the format, components, and timing of interventions, as well as the influence of risk perceptions and results of the screening itself on motivation and ability to quit smoking.
A measure of school racial socialization and quality of intergroup interactions.

Objectives The current study presents a comprehensive framework of campus racial climate and tests the validity and reliability of a new measure, the School Climate for Diversity Scale-College, in three independent samples. The scale measures 10 dimensions of campus racial climate in the two domains of intergroup interactions (frequency of interaction, quality of interaction, equal status, support for positive interaction, and stereotyping) and campus racial socialization (cultural socialization, mainstream socialization, promotion of cultural competence, colorblind socialization, and critical consciousness socialization). Method Participants were college students drawn from an online task system and a public university on the West Coast. Results and conclusions Study 1 provided evidence of reliability and validity with existing measures of college climate, whereas Study 2 provided evidence of factor stability through exploratory factor analysis as well as additional evidence of discriminant and concurrent validity. Finally, Study 3 replicated the factor structure of Study 2 and provided further evidence of validity. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved).
Android Escalation Paths: Building Attack-Graphs from SEAndroid Policies

Smartphones are a critical device in modern society. With the amount of personal data present on many smartphones, protecting their integrity is crucial. The Android operating system employs multiple layers of security to ensure that the system is resistant to local and remote threats. To achieve this it uses a combination of discretionary and mandatory access control policies. Attackers when attempting to escalate to a higher privilege level must operate within these policies and potentially exploit their flaws. The flow an attacker (and conversely a defender) follows can be modeled as attack graph. In this paper, we explore how attack graphs could be automatically generated from SEAndroid policy files to aid defenders and attackers with auditing system security posture.
Occam’s Razor and Simple Software Project Management

Occam’s Razor is a principle of parsimony for problem solving. It states that among competing hypotheses, the one with the fewest assumptions should be selected. This chapter applies Occam’s Razor to model-based project management. In this style of management, a manager uses models to guide their decisions. Ideally, such models should be supported by empirical data.
Cell-free Embryonic Stem Cell Extract-mediated Derivation of Multi-potent Stem Cells from NIH3T3 Fibroblasts for Functional and Anatomical Ischemic Tissue Repair

The oocyte-independent generation of multipotent stem cells is one of the goals in regenerative medicine. We report that upon exposure to mouse ES cell (ESC) extracts, reversibly permeabilized NIH3T3 cells undergo de-differentiation followed by stimulus-induced re-differentiation into multiple lineage cell types. Genome-wide expression profiling revealed significant differences between NIH3T3 and ESC-extract treated NIH3T3 cells including re-activation of ESC specific transcripts. Epigenetically, ESC extracts induced CpG de-methylation of Oct4 promoter, hyper-acetylation of histones 3 and 4 and decreased lysine 9 (K-9) dimethylation of histone 3. In mouse models of surgically-induced hind limb ischemia (HLI) or acute myocardial infarction (AMI) transplantation of reprogrammed NIH3T3 cells significantly improved post-injury physiological functions and showed antomical evidence of engraftment and trans-differentiation into skeletal muscle, endothelial cell and cardiomyocytes. These data provide evidence for the generation of functional multi-potent stem like cells from terminally differentiated somatic cells without the introduction of trans-genes or ESC fusion.
Congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia: results of technical variations in the charnley-williams procedure.

Background Results of the Charnley-Williams method of intramedullary fixation for treatment of congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia have varied, in part because of variations in surgical technique. The outcomes of three variations of this procedure were compared to determine which technique was the most likely to result in union. Methods The results in twenty-three consecutive patients with congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia were reviewed at four to fourteen years following initial surgical treatment with an intramedullary rod. Three types of procedures were performed: type A, which consisted of resection of the tibial pseudarthrosis with shortening, insertion of an intramedullary rod into the tibia, and tibial bone-grafting combined with fibular resection or osteotomy and insertion of an intramedullary rod into the fibula; type B, which was identical to type A except that it did not include fibular fixation; and type C, which consisted of insertion of a tibial rod and bone-grafting but no fibular surgery. The outcome was classified as grade 1 when there was unequivocal union with full weight-bearing function and maintenance of alignment requiring no additional surgical treatment; grade 2 when there was equivocal union with useful function, with the limb protected by a brace, and/or valgus or sagittal bowing for which additional surgery was required or anticipated; and grade 3 when there was persistent nonunion or refracture, requiring full-time external support for pain and/or instability. Results Eleven patients (48%) ultimately had a grade-1 outcome; nine, a grade-2 outcome; and three, a grade-3 outcome. The final outcome was not associated with either the initial radiographic appearance of the lesion or the age of the patient at the time of the initial surgery. The results following type-A and B operations were better than those after type-C procedures. Surgery on an intact fibula resulted in a lower prevalence of grade-3 outcomes than was found when an intact fibula was not operated on (p = 0.05). Transfixation of the ankle joint by the intramedullary rod did not decrease the prevalence of grade-3 outcomes. Conclusions There is little justification for a type-C operation, as it either resulted in a persistent nonunion or failed to improve an equivocal outcome in every case. Leaving an intact fibula undisturbed to maintain stability or length also was not successful in this series. In addition, the presence of fibular insufficiency (fracture or a pre-pseudarthrotic lesion) was highly prognostic for subsequent valgus deformity (occurring in ten of twelve cases), whether or not the fibula eventually healed.
Impact of Context on Keyword Identification and Use in Biomedical Literature Mining

The use of two statistical metrics in automatically identifying important keywords associated with a concept such as a gene by mining scientific literature is reviewed. Starting with a subset of MEDLINE® abstracts that contain the name or synonyms of a gene in their titles, the aforementioned metrics contrast the prevalence of specific words in these documents against a broader “background set” of abstracts. If a word occurs substantially more often in the document subset associated with a gene than in the background set that acts as a reference, then the word is viewed as capturing some specific attribute of the gene.
A Comprehensive Comparison of MHz GaN-Based ZVS Step-Down Converters for Low Power Integrated On-Chip Applications

Non-isolated step-down converters are widely used as auxiliary power supplies. Active and passive components, excluding large magnetic components, are usually integrated in a single chip in the industry. High power density and high efficiency are always the most important requirements. High switching frequency, such as megahertz (MHz), can highly shrink the volume of passive components compared with kilohertz frequency, however, it will cause huge switching loss for hard switching converters. Zero-voltage-switching (ZVS) is able to highly reduce switching loss, especially under high switching frequency. In this paper, three ZVS buck-type converters operating at MHz frequency, including conventional buck, tapped-inductor buck and hybrid resonant buck converter, are compared. Finally, three hardware prototypes using gallium-nitride (GaN) devices with 24–48 V input and 3-A/5-V output are demonstrated and compared in terms of efficiency, size and thermal performance.
Numerical approach to a reverse problem using LS-DYNA3D analysis: collision of an aeroplane door with the ground

Nonlinear finite element analysis (FEA) with LS-DYNA3D is used to determine the initial conditions needed for aircraft components to become damaged as observed after impact with the ground. Determi...
A bimodal approach to thymic carcinoma with pericardial sac invasion

Thymic carcinoma is a rare tumour of the thymus, representing less than 1% of thymic malignancies.1 It has an annual incidence of 0.15–0.32 per 1 00 000 person-years.2 It is found incidentally in 30% of the patients as an opacity on chest X-ray or with non-specific complaints of persistent cough, chest pain, fatigue, shortness of breath, arm and facial swelling, and upper airway congestion related to tumour extension. We present the case of a 59-year-old man with a history of Graves’ disease status post radiation treatment presenting with cough and left lingual opacity on chest X-ray, confirmed to be thymic carcinoma with pericardial invasion and lymph node metastasis. We aim to discuss the presentation, treatment modalities and outcome associated with this rare tumour.
Sampling and Interpolation in Two Dimensions

Sampling and interpolation in two dimensions is much richer than in one dimension. Not only are there polar coordinates and other coordinate systems in addition to cartesian, but sampling can be done along lines as well as at points. The distinction between point and line sampling will be discussed first. Since sampling at regular intervals plays a major role, we pass on to regular point sampling as expressed in one dimension by the shah function III(x), an entity that was introduced earlier in connection with delta functions. In two dimensions we find the direct generalization 2III(x, y), which occupies a square lattice of points, together with a range of other manifestations of the shah function. Since the Fourier transform of a sampling pattern is a transfer function, this treatment brings us to the brink of digital filtering. Before developing this subject in the next chapter, however, we discuss the sampling theorem and interpolation.
Exercise Rescues Gene Pathways Involved in Vascular Expansion and Promotes Functional Angiogenesis in Subcutaneous White Adipose Tissue

Exercise mitigates chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and obesity; however, the molecular mechanisms governing protection from these diseases are not completely understood. Here we demonstrate that exercise rescues metabolically compromised high fat diet (HFD) fed mice, and reprograms subcutaneous white adipose tissue (scWAT). Using transcriptomic profiling, scWAT was analyzed for HFD gene expression changes that were rescued by exercise. Gene networks involved in vascularization were identified as prominent targets of exercise, which led us to investigate the vasculature architecture and endothelial phenotype. Vascular density in scWAT was found to be compromised in HFD, and exercise rescued this defect. Similarly, angiogenic capacity as measured by ex vivo capillary sprouting was significantly promoted with exercise. Together, these data demonstrate that exercise enhances scWAT vascularization and functional capacity for angiogenesis, and can prevent the detrimental effects of HFD. The improvement in these indices correlates with improvement of whole-body metabolism, suggesting that scWAT vascularization may be a potential therapeutic target for metabolic disease.
New View on Dietary Fiber Selection for Predictable Shifts in Gut Microbiota

Dietary fibers can be utilized to shape the human gut microbiota. However, the outcomes from most dietary fibers currently used as prebiotics are a result of competition between microbes with overlapping abilities to utilize these fibers. Thus, divergent fiber responses are observed across individuals harboring distinct microbial communities. Here, we propose that dietary fibers can be classified hierarchically according to their specificity toward gut microbes. Highly specific fibers harbor chemical and physical characteristics that allow them to be utilized by only a narrow group of bacteria within the gut, reducing competition for that substrate. The use of such fibers as prebiotics targeted to specific microbes would result in predictable shifts independent of the background microbial composition.
Genealogical search using whole-genome genotype profiles

Abstract In the personal genomics era, biobanks and direct-to-consumer companies contain millions of whole-genome genotype profiles. The wealth of genetic data enables powerful genetic genealogical search that can reveal distant genetic relationships between individuals. In this chapter, we review basic concepts, technologies, algorithms, and methods for genetic genealogical search. We will also discuss the ethical, societal, and privacy implications of this topic.
Chapter 2 – Viscosity of Gas – Inorganic Compounds

Publisher Summary This chapter presents the values of viscosity of gas (inorganic compounds) in tabulated form. For the tabulation, an equation is selected for gas viscosity as a function of temperature. The tabulation is arranged by alphabetical order such as Ag, Al, Ar, and Zr to provide ease of use in quickly locating the data by using the chemical formula. The compound name and chemical abstracts registry number (CAS No) are also provided in tabular form. Values for regression coefficients are given in the adjacent columns. The temperature range for use is also given in the columns (TMIN and TMAX). The equation should not be used for temperatures outside this range. The next column provides the code for the tabulation. The last three columns provide values for gas viscosity at representative temperatures. The tabulation is applicable to gas at low pressure. Very limited experimental data are available for inorganic salts and high melting point compounds. Thus, the values for these compounds should be considered rough approximations. A comparison of calculated and data values is also shown for a representative compound. The graph shows favorable agreement of equation and data.
Reaching across the aisle to block reforms

I propose a model of legislative bargaining among endogenous coalitions over multiple policy dimensions. I provide a characterization of (i) the partition of the legislature into coalitions, (ii) the policy reforms that coalitions propose (if any), and (iii) the policy outcome attained from these proposals. I show that—depending on the position of the status quo—either (1) the presence of coalitions does not affect the policy outcome and a median voter theorem holds, or (2) an alliance among legislators with extreme and opposite political views—i.e., a coalition of extremes—can successfully block reforms that would be feasible if legislator could not coalesce. Lastly, I show that the extent to which the existence of coalitions can increase the set of possible policy reforms is severely limited or null.
Gallbladder Cryoablation: A Novel Option for High-Risk Patients with Gallbladder Disease

Management of high-risk surgical patients with cholecystitis poses a significant clinical problem. These patients are often left with the options of permanent cholecystostomy tube drainage or high-risk surgery. Numerous attempts have been made over the past 4 decades to fulfill the need for a minimally invasive, definitive treatment option for such gallbladder disease. These attempts have largely focused on endoluminal ablation with a variety of sclerosants and have been unable to reliably achieve permanent gallbladder devitalization. The advent of modern percutaneous devices and techniques have provided further opportunity to develop minimally invasive treatment options for high-risk patients. Cryoablation, a thermal ablation modality that induces cell death through tissue freezing, has recently emerged as a promising potential option to treat gallbladder disease. Early studies have demonstrated good technical and clinical success, and a prospective trial is ongoing. This manuscript explains the clinical need for gallbladder cryoablation, briefly revisits historical minimally invasive treatments, describes cryoablation technology and why it is well suited for the gallbladder, and reviews the preclinical and clinical studies evaluating the safety and efficacy of gallbladder cryoablation.
Redefining global citizenship education: a case study of Kazakhstan

One of the most important challenges in the educational system is effectively engaging young people to become educated and concerned citizens actively working on finding solutions to today’s pressing issues, from Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), climate change and environmental pollution, to maintaining peace and security through development and communication. Recent work (UNESCO, 2015) suggests that global citizenship education (GCE) is increasingly becoming one of the tools not only for educating youth on global challenges, but also for involving them in implementation of SDGs, volunteership, and civil society activities. The purpose of this article is to analyze the evolving approaches in conceptualizing GCE, and incorporating it into curricula and extracurricular activities, using the example of Kazakhstan. The article addresses three research questions: First, how are researchers and educators conceptually redefining GCE in the learning environment of national higher education institutions (HEIs), educating youth on globalization and global challenges, and harmonizing the concepts and perceptions of national and global citizenship? Second, how do educators perceive the place of GCE in the traditional education programs within universities, and define the conceptual focus of different aspects of globalization and GCE within their teaching practice? And third, how do educators in the developing world integrate GCE into the existing traditional educational programs within universities, specifically in the case of Kazakhstan? This research offers a nuanced approach to the introduction of GCE in higher education institutions in the context of developing countries. Key words: Global Citizenship Education, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Higher Education Institutions (HEI), Kazakhstan
Engineered Microbial Routes for Human Milk Oligosaccharides Synthesis

Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) are one of the important ingredients in human milk, which have attracted great interest due to their beneficial effect on the health of newborns. The large-scale production of HMOs has been researched using engineered microbial routes due to the availability, safety, and low cost of host strains. In addition, the development of molecular biology technology and metabolic engineering has promoted the effectiveness of HMOs production. According to current reports, 2'-fucosyllactose (2'-FL), 3-fucosyllactose (3-FL), lacto-N-tetraose (LNT), lacto-N-neotetraose (LNnT), 3'-sialyllactose (3'-SL), 6'-sialyllactose (6'-SL), and some fucosylated HMOs with complex structures have been produced via the engineered microbial route, with 2'-FL having been produced the most. However, due to the uncertainty of metabolic patterns, the selection of host strains has certain limitations. Aside from that, the expression of appropriate glycosyltransferase in microbes is key to the synthesis of different HMOs. Therefore, finding a safe and efficient glycosyltransferase has to be addressed when using engineered microbial pathways. In this review, the latest research on the production of HMOs using engineered microbial routes is reported. The selection of host strains and adapting different metabolic pathways helped researchers designing engineered microbial routes that are more conducive to HMOs production.
Other Arrhythmic Disorders: WPW, CPVT, Brugada and Idiopathic VF/VT

A central component in the cardiovascular screening and evaluation of athletes is the identification of arrhythmic disorders that may place them at increased risk for sudden cardiac death during strenuous exercise. These disorders include Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome, catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT), Brugada syndrome, and idiopathic ventricular fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia. The identification and management of these arrhythmic disorders can be challenging. The focus of this chapter is to discuss these conditions in the context of the highly active patient and to review how management needs to be specially tailored to the athlete.
Gender Differences in Car Loan Access: An Empirical Analysis

Across the world, there is a widely held view that women are subject to discrimination by financial institutions. Due to the rising social justice movement, which aims, in part, to increase gender equality, most developed countries have worked to reduce gender disparities in loan application processes. This study aims to analyze whether gender inequality exists in India's car loan industry. The dataset used in this paper contains the records of used car loans made in India between 2013 and 2015 to test whether gender discrimination exists in the used car loan application process. A regression-based method is used, and it is found that gender was a statistically significant predictor of disbursement, requested amount, and interest rate charged. Loan applications by women have a lower likelihood of approval when the applicants’ CIBIL scores are lower than 790.29. Furthermore, women with CIBIL scores lower than 769.54 are assigned higher interest rates than male applicants with comparable CIBIL scores. That indicates that taste-based discrimination against women with low CIBIL scores exists. A female applicant must obtain a spectacular CIBIL score to eliminate the negative consequences of gender inequality. Therefore, adopting gender-blind applications would lead to more equal outcomes in used car loans.
IVIG Responsive Motor Neuropathy in the Legs: A Diagnostic Challenge (P4.111)

OBJECTIVE: To identify patients with IVIG responsive leg onset multifocal motor neuropathy (LOMMN) thereby eliminating motor neuron disease (MND) or primary muscular atrophy as the primary diagnosis. BACKGROUND: Motor neuron disease is a progressive disease affecting only motor fibers. One-third of patients have leg onset. Conduction block may not be detected at presentation. Identifying patients with IVIG responsive LOMMN is important due to its responsiveness to treatment with IVIG. DESIGN/METHODS: Retrospective review/case study. RESULTS: All patients with pure leg weakness seen in the Department of Neurology at Hospital For Special Surgery from April 2009 to September 2013 were identified. Of these, the patients in whom weakness remained confined to leg muscles for at least two years were selected. A total of twenty one patients, 18 men and 3 women, ages from 24 to 81 years were identified. Arms were affected on presentation in five; all had conduction block and improved with IVIG. Two sets of two brothers had persisted leg weakness, one of the brothers had conduction block and was treated with IVIG. Persistent and isolated leg weakness occurred in 13 patients, 6 were unresponsive to IVIG, 7 responded to IVIG and improvement persisted for 1-6 years. One patient, a 65 year old man had cramps, muscle twitching and weakness of right ankle dorsiflexion, toe flexion and extension. Reflexes in the ankles were absent, knees normally active. Plantar reflex was extensor on the right. A cane was required for ambulation. Anti neuronal antibodies were not identified. Motor biopsy showed excessive axonal clusters. IVIG was administered via a 2gm/kg load followed by 0.4gm/kg every 2 weeks with return to normal strength. Six years later, walking remained normal without aids. CONCLUSIONS: LOMMN is difficult to separate from MND. However, due to its responsiveness to treatment with IVIG, aggressive means to identify and diagnose LOMMN should be employed. Study Supported by: n/a. Disclosure: Dr. Agopian has nothing to disclose. Dr. Lange has received personal compensation for activities with Genzyme Corp. Dr. Lange has received research support from CSL Behring, GlaxoSmithKline Inc., Cytokinetics, CSL Behring, Muscular Dystrophy Association and National Institutes of Health.
Postcolonial perspectives on global citizenship education. by De Oliveira Andreotti, V., & Mario T. M. de Souza, L. (Eds.)

This edited volume brings together a thought-provoking series of transdisciplinary and postcolonial studies on the topical subject of global citizenship education. The core motivation behind the bo...
AID AND SOMATIC HYPERMUTATION

In response to an assault by foreign organisms, peripheral B cells can change their antibody affinity and isotype by somatically mutating their genomic DNA. The ability of a cell to modify its DNA is exceptional in light of the potential consequences of genetic alterations to cause human disease and cancer. Thus, as expected, this mechanism of antibody diversity is tightly regulated and coordinated through one protein, activation-induced deaminase (AID). AID produces diversity by converting cytosine to uracil within the immunoglobulin loci. The deoxyuracil residue is mutagenic when paired with deoxyguanosine, since it mimics thymidine during DNA replication. Additionally, B cells can manipulate the DNA repair pathways so that deoxyuracils are not faithfully repaired. Therefore, an intricate balance exists which is regulated at multiple stages to promote mutation of immunoglobulin genes, while retaining integrity of the rest of the genome. Here we discuss and summarize the current understanding of how AID functions to cause somatic hypermutation.
Resistance of Macrophages from C3H/HeJ Mice to the in Vitro Cytotoxic Effects of Endotoxin

Endotoxin (LPS) is toxic for normal mouse macrophages in vitro at concentrations (50 µg/ml) that are fully mitogenic and nontoxic to lymphocytes. Macrophages from LPS-resistant C3H/HeJ mice are not killed by LPS in vitro whereas those from a closely related LPS-responsive strain (C3H/HeN) are killed. Killing is the result of a direct interaction between LPS and the macrophage since this phenomenon is observed in lymphocyte-depleted cultures and since the presence of additional LPS-sensitive spleen cells will not enhance the killing of either C3H/HeN or C3H/HeJ macrophages. Furthermore, C3H/HeJ macrophages remain resistant to LPS-induced killing despite prior immunization with LPS in vivo or incubation with anti-LPS serum in vitro . LPS preparations vary in their cytotoxic effect on macrophages, and Escherichia coli K-235 LPS (phenol-water extracted), which discriminates well between LPS responsive and nonresponsive B cells, also discriminates well between LPS-sensitive and resistant macrophages. However, there is no apparent correlation between the mitogenic potential of LPS preparations and their cytotoxic effect on macrophages. These findings suggest that the C3H/HeJ mouse strain possesses a defect in LPS responsiveness which is intrinsic to its macrophages as well as its B lymphocytes.
Dark energy simulacrum in nonlinear electrodynamics

Quasiconstant external fields in nonlinear electromagnetism generate a global contribution proportional to ${g}^{\ensuremath{\mu}\ensuremath{\nu}}$ in the energy-momentum tensor, thus a simulacrum of dark energy. To provide a thorough understanding of the origin and strength of its effects, we undertake a complete theoretical and numerical study of the energy-momentum tensor ${T}^{\ensuremath{\mu}\ensuremath{\nu}}$ for nonlinear electromagnetism. The Euler-Heisenberg nonlinearity due to quantum fluctuations of spinor and scalar matter fields is considered and contrasted with the properties of classical nonlinear Born-Infeld electromagnetism. We address modifications of charged particle kinematics by strong background fields.
It'sOnly Words -- Impacts of Information Technology on Moral Dialogue

New forms of information technology, such as email, webpages and groupware, are being rapidly adopted. Intended to improve efficiency and effectiveness, these technologies also have the potential to radically alter the way people communicate in organizations. The effects can be positive or negative. This paper explores how technology can encourage or discourage moral dialogue -- communication that is open, honest, and respectful of participants. It develops a framework that integrates formal properties of ideal moral discourse, based on Habermas' (1984) theory of communicative action, with properties of informal communication that help sustain good moral conversations (Bird, 1996; Johannesen, 1996). Ten criteria distilled from these works form the basis of a template that can be used for assessing the positive and negative impacts of emerging information technologies on moral dialogue.
Cultural Diversity in the U.S. South: Anthropological Contributions to a Region in Transition.

Cultural Diversity in the U.S. South: Anthropological Contributions to. Region in Transition. Carole E. Hill and Patricia D. Beaver. eds. Athens: University of Georgia Press, 1998. 204 pp.
The risk of febrile neutropenia and need for G-CSF primary prophylaxis with the docetaxel and cyclophosphamide regimen in early-stage breast cancer patients: a meta-analysis

The febrile neutropenia (FN) rates reported with the docetaxel 75 mg/m2 plus cyclophosphamide 600 mg/m2 (TC) regimen given every 3 weeks vary from 4 to 69 % in early-stage breast cancer (ESBC) patients. This creates uncertainty as to whether patients receiving the TC regimen should also receive granulocyte colony-stimulating factor primary prophylaxis (G-CSFpp), which is recommended when chemotherapy regimens have ≥20 % FN rate. We conducted a meta-analysis of published studies to determine FN rate with the TC regimen, its dependence on patients’ age, and the efficacy of G-CSFpp in reducing it in ESBC patients. We systematically searched the literature via PUBMED using the following terms: ‘docetaxel’, ‘cyclophosphamide’, ‘febrile neutropenia’, and ‘breast cancer’. Inclusion criteria were full text peer-reviewed clinical studies in English reporting FN rates with TC regimen in relationship to G-CSFpp. Comprehensive meta-analysis software was used for all statistical analyses. Eight studies (N = 1542 patients) were included in our meta-analysis. The pooled mean FN rate was 23.2 % (95 % confidence interval (CI) 6.9–55.2 %; Q = 218.17, I 2 = 97.7). The FN risk in <65 years old patients was lower by 67.7 % compared to that in patients ≥65 years old (pooled odds ratio (OR) 0.323; 95 % CI 0.127–0.820; P = 0.017). The FN risk was reduced by 92.3 % with G-CSFpp (pooled OR 0.077; 95 % CI 0.013–0.460; P = 0.005). Our meta-analysis demonstrated that TC regimen was associated with ≥20 % FN risk, which was significantly higher in patients ≥65 years old and improved with G-CSFpp. G-CSFpp should be considered for all ESBC patients receiving TC regimen, especially those ≥65 years old.
The volume of the coefficient space stability domain of monic polynomials

The volume of the coefficient space domain of polynomials with zeros in the unit circle is evaluated. This volume is an upper bound on the volume of any domain of coefficient variations of any shape under which stability is invariant. Volumes of related domains are computed and the results extended to polynomials with zeros in a circle of arbitrary radius. >
THE TRANSFER OF COELOMIC EGGS BETWEEN FROGS.

In the analysis of events immediately preceding and following fertilization of the frog egg, it is frequently desirable to treat the eggs with various reagents. Any such treatment must circumvent the barrier represented by the fertilization membrane and the jelly layers. These membranes can be removed from fertilized eggs mechanically or by treatment with proteolytic enzymes (Spiegel, 1951) without impairing development. However, unfertilized eggs from which the jelly has been removed mechanically cannot be fertilized by sperm unless the jelly is restored, and chemical removal of the jelly also inhibits their ability to be parthenogenically activated (Barch & Shaver, 1959). Therefore an alternative method for obtaining jelly-free eggs for treatment prior to fertilization is necessary. Coelomic eggs are invested by a vitelline membrane, but they are free of jelly layers and the fertilization membrane has not yet been formed. This recommends them as the stage for exposure to reagents whose effects on fertilization are to be analyzed.
In-band intermodulation measurement and simulation of a local multipoint distribution system

Measurement results of the in-band intermodulation performance of a millimeter-wave communication system developed for local multipoint distribution applications are reported. The system employed traveling-wave tubes as the headend power devices for asymmetrical information transfer. Implications of the presented results on system design, and procedures to incorporate the data for system simulation tools to predict the baseband characteristics in terms of representations such as constellation plots are discussed.
A multicellular tumor spheroid model of cellular immunity against head and neck cancer.

A multicellular tumor spheroid (MTS) model for head and neck cancers has been used to examine the immune function of fresh and 6-day interleukin-2(IL-2)-activated peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL). MTS are individually cultured in the presence of effector cells, and the spheroids' growth is monitored by sizing them under an inverted microscope. Dose/response studies for IL-2 (0–100 U/ml) alone and for fresh unstimulated PBL (0–105 cells/MTS) showed no effects on MTS growth. IL-2-activated PBL (0–105 cells/MTS), in contrast, modulated MTS growth in a multiphasic pattern: MTS growth was unperturbed for the first 3 days and then growth inhibition occurred, followed by MTS disintegration. Histological analysis showed that intact MTS histoarchitecture correlated with unperturbed growth, and increasing cell sloughing and MTS dissolution and replacement by activated PBL correlated with growth inhibition and disintegration. Flow-cytometric sorting of lymphocyte subset populations indicated that it was the Leu19+CD3− cells that produced these growth-modulatory effects. In contrast to the initial LAK cell resistance of MTS, single-cell suspensions demonstrated significant lysis in standard 4-h chromium-release assays. Differences between single cells and MTS suggest a potential for tissue-like organization as a factor in lymphokine-activated killing.
The Relationship Between Occupational Interests and Values

A values characterization of the RIASEC occupational interest categories was developed using the U.S. Department of Labor's O*NET occupational data. Values profile plots were constructed for each interest category, then correspondence analysis and canonical correlation were carried out to assess the relationship between the interest and values categories. Suggestions for the use of values information in a counseling context are presented.
Dental Management of the Child Undergoing Bone Marrow Transplantation

Various oral problems develop subsequent to supralethal doses of chemotherapy and radiation therapy in children undergoing bone marrow transplantation. The potential for serious complications requires that the child receive good dental management before and after transplantation.
Frequency of Plant Growth Regulator and Mowing Treatments: Effects on Injury and Suppression of Centipedegrass

Centipedegrass [Eremochloa ophiuroides (Munro) Hack.] is a popular low maintenance turfgrass that produces seedheads from midsummer until early fall. Since regular mowing is needed to maintain a quality turf, experiments on rate and frequency of plant growth regulator applications and mowing frequencies were initiated to assess their effect on suppression of vegetative and reproductive growth of centipegrass. Various rates of imazethapyr {2-[4,5-dihydro-4-methyl-4-(1-methylethyl-5-oxo-1H-imidazol-2-yl]-5-ethyl-3-pyridinecarboxylic acid}, mefluidide {N-[2,4-dimethyl-5-[[(trifluoromethyl)sulfonyl]amino]phenyl]-acetamide}, and CGA 163935 [4(cyclopropyl)-α-hydroxy-methylene)-3,5-dioxocyclohexanecarhoxylic acid ethylester] were evaluated as sequential applications and in combination with mowing on suppression of centipedegrass [...]
Hybrid approach to limb salvage in the setting of an infected femoral-femoral bypass graft.

Prosthetic vascular graft infection in patients with advanced peripheral arterial disease can lead to multiple additional procedures, including extra-anatomic bypass or even amputation. We report the case of an 88-year-old woman with critical limb ischemia and an infected prosthetic femoral–femoral bypass graft. Using a planned hybrid 2-stage approach, we performed endovascular recanalization of the native left iliac arterial system using remote access via the superficial femoral artery to avoid infected groin wounds. Recanalization of the patient's Trans-Atlantic Inter-Society Consensus II D chronic iliac occlusion allowed for removal of the infected graft and placement of a profunda femoris artery to proximal posterior tibial artery bypass, thereby restoring inflow and avoiding the infected left groin. Newer endovascular techniques coupled with open surgical options may lead to limb salvage in patients with previously unreconstructable peripheral arterial disease.
SHAMANISM: A PSYCHOSOCIAL DEFINITION

As a religious phenomenon that predates Christianity, shamanism is of special interest to persons concerned with the history and variety of world religions. For students of Native American religions, the anthropologist Ruth Underhill found that, "In some form or other, the shaman existed in almost every Native American tribe" (104). But despite the importance of the term, no definition of it takes full account of the impact of shamans on the social and psychological lives of their people. Reigning definitions focus on otherworldly or transcendental aspects and thus avoid analyzing shamanism as a psychosocial production that both reflects and shapes the world of the shaman's patrons. Moreover, by depicting shamanism as an ideal form of religious expression, most definitions celebrate its liberating and therapeutic effects but overlook its destructive capacities and its role as an enforcer of social conformity. The concern to defend the sacred and to protect human response to the sacred from thoroughgoing investigation blocks analysis of an important phenomenon in religion. Mircea Eliade advanced the definition of shamanism that is most commanding in present scholarship, especially among writers in religion studies. Eliade defined shamanism as a technique for attaining ecstasy that enabled persons to come into contact with the sacred order of the cosmos.' He celebrated the shaman as the truly religious man and interpreted the shaman's ecstatic experiences of ascension and flight, dismemberment, and identification with the axis mundi as a paragon of religious knowledge. This obvious idealization grounds Eliade's well-known theory of religious devolution. The theory holds that shamanism enabled members of the primitive cultures of Europe, Asia, and North America to live attuned to the timeless, sacred order of the cosmos. With the rise of historical religions devoted to temporal Amanda Porterfield is Associate Professor of Religion at Syracuse University, Syracuse,
Soundscape, sonification, and sound activism

In this article, the author will argue that the act of listening through public soundwalks and other formal and informal exercises builds environmental and social awareness and promotes changes in social and cultural practices. By examining the act of listening as an alternative pathway and comparing the research, writings, and creative work of leaders of the acoustic ecology movement (i.e., R. Murray Schafer, Hildegard Westerkamp, and Bernie Krause), the author hopes to shed light on these potentials. For purposes of comparison, projects that explore the sonification and audification of inaudible signals will be examined, including the work of Christina Kubisch. The process of audification and sonification of these signals will be examined in comparison to soundscape experiences in order to develop a theory of data sonification based on the soundscape. In order to build a community around the urban soundscape, in 2003, the author co-founded the New York Society of Acoustic Ecology. Through this endeavor, she co-created the ongoing NYSoundmap and Sound Seeker projects, which provide some practical research for this article. Thus, by comparing and contrasting theoretical writings with leading listening exercises, public soundwalks, soundscape-related brainstorming sessions, and presenting field recordings in various settings, new methodologies will be documented.
The presence of 5-hydroxytryptamine in the eyestalks and brain of the fiddler crab UCA pugilator, its quantitative modification by pharmacological agents, and possible role as a neurotransmitter in controlling the release of red pigment-dispersing hormone*

Abstract 1. 5-Hydroxytryptamine (5-HT, serotonin) is present in the eyestalks (7.38–7.63 μ g./g. wet weight) and brain (2.77–3.38 μ g./g. wet weight) of the fiddler crab Uca pugilator . 2. Reserpine and 5,6-dihydroxytryptamine produced a decrease in the 5-HT levels of both the eyestalks and brain. Both drugs also caused concentration of the red chromatophoric pigment. 3. Injection of pargyline, a monoamine oxidase inhibitor, resulted in an increase in the 5-HT content of both the eyestalks and brain. This drug evoked dispersion of the red chromatophoric pigment. 4. Bilateral eyestalk ablation resulted in an increase of the 5-HT level of the brain. 5. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that 5-HT has a normal role in the fiddler crab as a neurotransmitter involved in stimulating the release of red pigment-dispersing hormone.
Descriptions of the Larvae of Spodoptera sunia and S. latifascia with a Key to the Mature Spodoptera Larvae of the Eastern United States (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

Mature larvae of Spodoptera sunia (Guenee) and S. latifascia (Walker) are described and a key is given to the mature larvae of 7 species occurring in the eastern United States.
Terrain Elevation Data Integrity Monitor and Referenced Navigation

Synthetic vision systems provide a synthesized view of the outside world to pilots on displaysintheflightdeck.Terraindatabasesonboardaircraftareusedasthesourceofterrain elevation information on synthetic vision system displays. Because the primary function of thesedisplaysistoimproveflightsafety,itisimperativethattheterraindatausedtogenerate the imagery conform to a high level of integrity. Otherwise, instead of preventing accidents, the terrain database would be cause of more. Hence, it is necessary to include an integrity monitor function that ensures the terrain data are consistent with the real world. In this paper, we revisit previously proposed concepts and present the development of a 3D spatial data integrity monitor. The framework is also extended to a terrain referenced navigation scheme such that both operations can be performed simultaneously. Presented furthermore is a Kalman filter design and its associated tradeoffs for improving the performance of the integrity monitor and navigation functions. The performance of the integrity monitor and position estimator for navigation is evaluated using flight test data collected in the vicinity of Braxton County airport in West Virginia.
The sturgeon vas cautery: The first 600 cases

The Sturgeon Vas Cautery, an inexpensive, reusable battery-powered modular unit, has been used in 600 consecutive successful vasectomies with a minimum of complications and without equipment breakdown.
Space shuttle launch probability analysis: Understanding history so we can predict the future

The Space Shuttle was launched 135 times and nearly half of those launches required 2 or more launch attempts. The Space Shuttle launch countdown historical data of 255 launch attempts provides a wealth of data that is important to analyze for strictly historical purposes as well as for use in predicting future launch vehicle launch countdown performance. This paper provides a statistical analysis of all Space Shuttle launch attempts including the empirical probability of launch on any given attempt and the cumulative probability of launch relative to the planned launch date at the start of the initial launch countdown. This information can be used to facilitate launch probability predictions of future launch vehicles such as NASA's Space Shuttle derived Space Launch System (SLS). Understanding the cumulative probability of launch is particularly important for missions to Mars since the launch opportunities are relatively short in duration and one must wait for 2 years before a subsequent attempt can begin.
Optimum design of a vibrating bar with specified minimum cross section.

Optimal design expressions of vibrating bars extended to accommodate specified minimum cross section