cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Intending and Its Place in the Theory of Action

The topic of intending is important in both the literature of action theory and, more generally, that of ethics and law.1 In 1973, I offered an account of intending that has received much attention in the succeeding two decades. 2 Various elements in the account have been defended in print, both by others and by me,3 but the account, like the subject in general, remains controversial. Even apart from what has been specifically disputed, there are unsolved problems. This paper is aimed at contributing to our understanding of intending in two ways: first, it will reinforce and clarify my original account of intending by bringing the account to bear on a number of important problems central for intending in particular and the theory of the will in general; secondly, it will reply to a number of objections to the account that have emerged or re-emerged in the past several years.
Prognostic assessment of ovarian reserve

Objective To review the literature regarding dimished ovarian reserve, the screening techniques that are currently available, and their appropriate application in clinical practice. Data Resources Directed Medline searches. Results Ovarian reserve screening identifies women with greatly diminished chances of achieving pregnancy. The screening techniques include the clomiphene citrate challenge test, basal day 3 FSH measurements, and the GnRH agonist stimulation test. All have been evaluated in assisted reproduction programs and the predictive values of an abnormal test for failing to conceive is very high. When abnormal, these tests allow physicians to counsel patients that their prognosis for conception is poor. Although the presence of a normal result does indicate better long-term chances for conception, an age-related decline in fecundity remains and patient age should still be considered when counseling patients with normal screening results. Clinicians are urged to validate the threshold values with the assay system used in their own laboratory before the application of these tests. Conclusion The literature consistently demonstrates the value of diminished ovarian reserve screening.
The Monotonic Cost Allocation Rule in Steiner Tree Network Games

We investigate the cost allocation strategy associated with the problem of providing some network service from source to a number of users, via the Minimum Cost Steiner Tree Network that spans the source and all the receivers. The cost of such a Steiner tree network, is distributed among its receivers. The objective of this paper is to develop a reasonably fair and computationally efficient cost allocation rule associated with the above cost allocation problem. Since finding the optimal Steiner tree is an NP-hard problem, the input to our cost allocation problem is the best known solution obtained using some heuristic. In order to allocate the cost of this Steiner tree to the users (receiver nodes), we formulate the associated Steiner Tree Network (STN) game in characteristic function form. It is well known that the core of the general STN game might be empty. We propose a new cost allocation rule for the modified STN game which might be attractive to network users due to its monotonic properties, associated with network growth. ACM CCS (2012) Classification : Networks→Network Algorithms→Network Economics; Mathematics of computing→Discretemathematics→Combinatorics→Combinatorial optimization; Theory of computation → Theory and algorithms for application domains → Algorithmic game theory and mechanism design→Algorithmic game theory; Applied computing→Operations research→Decision analysis → Multi-criterion optimization and decisionmaking *To cite this article: D. Skorin-Kapov , "The Monotonic Cost Allocation Rule in Steiner Tree Network Games", CIT. Journal of Computing and Information Technology , vol. 24, no. 1, pp. 17-29, 2016.
Visualizing Langmuir-Blodgett Films with the Atomic Force Microscope

The Atomic Force Microscope (AFM) has created exciting new possibilities for imaging thin organic films under ambient conditions at length scales ranging from tens of microns to the sub - molecular scale. We present images of thin organic films prepared by the Langmuir-Blodgett (LB) technique that demonstrate the possibilities of the AFM.
Modulus of Soil Reaction Values for Buried Flexible Pipe

A table of modulus of soil reaction (E') values for use in the Iowa Formula has been empirically developed by the Bureau of Reclamation. Use of the methods and values suggested can reasonably predict the initial (no time effect) deflection of buried flexible pipe under fill up to 50 ft (15 m). The E' values vary according to the type of soil placed beside the pipe and the degree of compaction. The accuracy of predicted deflections varies according to the degree of compaction. Laboratory soil container tests and data from over 100 field installations were used in the investigation.
Concerning the Mechanism of Recovery in Stroke Hemiphegia

Two patients with pure motor hemiplegia were regaining strength in the affected limbs when a pure motor stroke developed on the opposite side. At the same time as the new hemiplegia appeared, the recovering side became re-paralyzed, suggesting that activity in the contralateral corticospinal tract had participated in the recovery process. Pathological studies were confirmatory. The literature pertaining to contralateral motor compensation is reviewed.
On the pair correlation conjecture and the alternative hypothesis

Abstract We prove the equivalence of certain asymptotic formulas for (a) averages over intervals for the 2-point form factor F ( α , T ) for the zeros of the Riemann zeta-function, ζ ( s ) , (b) the mean square of the logarithmic derivative of ζ ( s ) , (c) a variance for the number of primes in short intervals, and (d) the number of pairs of zeros of ζ ( s ) with small gaps. The main result is a generalization of the fusion of a theorem of Goldston and a theorem of Goldston, Gonek, and Montgomery. We apply our result to deduce several consequences of the Alternative Hypothesis.
Do Marketers’ Attitudes and Behaviors Differ from those Reported by the Carnegie Study?

A 1987 Carnegie Foundation report stated that U. S. education was in need of reform. Specifically, college faculty members were troubled about their current status, future prospects, and the increasing emphasis on research. However, business professors were underrepresented in the Carnegie study. This study examines 333 marketers’ responses to the Carnegie questionnaire. Marketers reported a higher involvement in research and a larger number of publications. Also, marketers’ attitudes about the future and their influence on departmental and institutional matters were significantly different. Therefore, it appears that generalizing the Carnegie findings to marketers’ behaviors and attitudes may be questionable.
Communication protocols in multi-hop radio networks

Packet radio networks provide a challenging environment in which to develop and deploy protocols. The challenges stem from the shared broadcast channel and from the possibility of conflicts. The problem becomes even more complex when nodes have no a priori knowledge of the topology of the entire network. Furthermore in many applications in a radio network, the topology may change over time. For this reason, it is desirable for protocols of radio networks not to make strong assumptions about the network topology, or about the information that nodes have concerning the topology. This thesis considers several important communication tasks in a multi-hop radio network. The thesis first studies the problem of broadcast in multi-hop radio networks. In this study, it is assumed that none of the nodes have initially any topological information, except for the size of the network and its maximum degree. The thesis presents a suite of randomized single-source broadcast protocols, in which only a single broadcast is allowed at any moment. Simulations show that the protocols improve upon the randomized single-source broadcast protocol by Bar-Yehuda et al. in most typical cases. The thesis then presents a suite of randomized multi-source broadcast protocols, in which a node can initiate a broadcast any time. The protocols are compared with each other in several typical cases. The thesis next considers the problem of electing a "leader" among a set of nodes in a multi-hop radio network. An efficient randomized leader election protocol in arbitrary multi-hop radio network is presented. Simulations show that the protocol is asymptotically more efficient than previous leader election protocols for (almost) all networks. Finally, the thesis investigates the problem of collecting responses in arbitrary multi-hop radio networks. In this work, it is assumed that each node has a unique identifier (ID) and initially knows the ID's of its neighbors. The thesis presents a deterministic and a randomized protocol for the problem. The two protocols are analyzed and their performance is compared. Conclusions are drawn about the suitability of our protocols in various network environments.
Effect of Small Pulsar Distance Variations in Stochastic GW Background Searches with PTAs

This chapter was published in a slightly modified form as Chiara M.F. Mingarelli and Trevor Sidery, “Effect of small inter-pulsar distance variations in stochastic gravitational wave background searches with Pulsar Timing Arrays”, Phys. Rev. D 90, 062011 (2014). I calculated the magnitude of the overlap reduction functions presented here, the Taylor series expansion, wrote and executed all the numerical codes used to make Table 3.1 and all the figures except for the contour plots. I wrote the draft of this paper, and all the text included here.
Update on bariatric surgical procedures and an introduction to the implantable weight loss device: the Maestro Rechargeable System

There are many different methods of treating obesity, ranging from various medical options to several surgical therapies. This paper briefly summarizes current surgical options for weight loss with a focus on one of the newest US Food and Drug Administration-approved devices for surgical weight loss therapy, the Maestro Rechargeable System. Also known as the vagal blocking for obesity control implantable device, this tool blocks vagal nerve activity to induce weight loss.
E-Cigarette Policies on College Campuses: Student Use Behaviors, Awareness, and Policy Support

This study examined e-cigarette use and attitudes toward e-cigarette policies among students at colleges and universities with and without policies prohibiting e-cigarette use on campus. In April 2015, we fielded an online survey with a convenience sample of 930 students at 14 North Dakota colleges and universities. The survey included questions about e-cigarette use, observed e-cigarette use on campus, awareness of school e-cigarette policy, and support for policies prohibiting e-cigarette use on campus. Over 40 % of respondents had used e-cigarettes at least once, and most current users reported using them rarely (36 %). Nearly 29 % of respondents reported observing e-cigarette use on campus, and more than half of these reported seeing e-cigarette use indoors. More than 42 % did not know whether their school’s policy prohibited e-cigarette use on campus, and students at schools with a policy were more likely to identify their campus policy correctly. Sixty-six percent of respondents were in favor of policies prohibiting e-cigarette use on campus, and those at schools with policies prohibiting e-cigarette use were more likely to support a campus e-cigarette policy. Policies prohibiting e-cigarette use on campus intend to restrict use, reduce prevalence, and shape social norms. This study indicates that support for campus e-cigarette policies is high, although awareness of whether e-cigarettes are included in college and university policies is low. These findings demonstrate the need for coordinated policy education efforts and may guide college administrators and student health services personnel as they consider how to implement and evaluate campus e-cigarette policies.
Host Preference Among Populations of Drosophila mojavensis (Diptera: Drosophilidae) that Use Different Host Cacti

Previous studies have suggested that all populations of cactophilic Drosophila mojavensis prefer pitaya agria cactus, Stenocereus gummosus, over all other potential hosts for feeding and breeding, including populations that inhabit areas where no agria grows. We sampled five geographically isolated populations of D. mojavensis from nature to assess host choice within and between populations. Host choice tests were performed in a laboratory “olfactometer” by allowing adult D. mojavensis to choose between plumes of synthetic volatile cocktails of two widespread host cacti. Overall, each population showed significant preference for agria volatiles with one exception: a mainland Sonora population that uses organ pipe cactus in nature exhibited preference for organ pipe volatiles, suggesting a possible shift in host preference. The degree of preference for agria volatiles was greatest in a population from southern California that use California barrel cactus as a host. Since southern Californian populations of D. mojavensis are thought to be derived from those in Baja California, preference for agria volatiles is considered a retained ancestral trait. Three populations from Baja California and mainland Mexico that use agria in the wild expressed lower, but similar preferences for agria volatiles. Because populations of D. mojavensis are ancestral to those in mainland Mexico, Arizona, and California, the shift from agria to alternate hosts has not been accompanied by strong changes in host preference behavior.
The relationship between oestrogen and executive functioning in ALS females with emerging Frontotemporal Lobar Degeneration (FTLD) supports a neuroendocrine model of FTLD attenuation.

AbstractObjective: The prevalence of ALS cognitive or behavioural impairment (ci or bi) consistent with Frontotemporal Degeneration (FTLD) approachs 50%, while ∼5-10% progress to dementia. Our goal was to explore ci and bi differencs between bulbar and limb onset, as well as the neuroprotective potential of oestrogen in emerging FTLD. Methods: We applied Mann Whitney U to evaluate differences in cognitive and behavioural profiles between site of onset in 78 female and 83 male non-demented ALS participants classified by current consensus criteria with ci. For females, we also examined differences by oestrogen level. Findings: Between group analyses found significantly worse Letter Fluency (LF) for bulbar onset, and worse Category Fluency (CF) for bulbar females. Significantly worse performance was found for low oestrogen females for LF and Similarities, with significantly worse LF for low oestrogen bulbar onset. No significant differences were found for behavioural subgroups, while moderate-severe range tr...
Resilience and Function in Adults With Physical Disabilities: An Observational Study

Abstract Objectives To determine if resilience is uniquely associated with functional outcomes (satisfaction with social roles, physical functioning, and quality of life) in individuals with physical disabilities, after controlling for measures of psychological health (depression and anxiety) and symptom severity (pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbance); and to examine the potential moderating effect of sex, age, and diagnosis on the hypothesized associations between resilience and function. Design Cross-sectional survey study. Setting Surveys were mailed (81% response rate) to a community sample of 1949 individuals with multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, postpoliomyelitis syndrome, or spinal cord injury. Participants were recruited through the Internet or print advertisement (28%), a registry of previous research participants who indicated interest in future studies (21%), a departmental registry of individuals interested in research (19%), disability-specific registries (18%), word of mouth (10%), or other sources (3%). Participants Convenience sample of community-dwelling adults aging with physical disabilities (N=1574), with a mean Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (10 items) score of 29. Interventions Not applicable. Main Outcome Measures Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System measures of Satisfaction with Social Roles and Activities and Physical Functioning, the World Health Organization's brief Older People's Quality of Life Questionnaire, and the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (10 items). Results After controlling for age, age squared, sex, diagnosis, psychological health, and symptom severity, resilience was significantly and positively associated with satisfaction with social roles (β=.17, P P P >.05). For every 1-point increase in scores of resilience, there was an increase of .50 in the quality of life score and .20 in the satisfaction with social roles score. Sex also moderated the association between resilience and satisfaction with social roles (F 1,1453 =4.09, P =.043). Conclusions The findings extend past research, providing further evidence indicating that resilience plays a unique role in nonphysical functional outcomes among individuals with physical disabilities.
Effects of wind, ambient temperature and sun position on damselfly flight activity and perch orientation

Many animals rely on movement for survival and reproduction. Directed movements incur metabolic costs, however, and animals adjust their behaviour to optimize energy expenditures in different abiotic conditions. Physical flows and solar radiation vary over time and space and influence animal behaviour at multiple spatiotemporal scales. Here, I quantify the effects of wind speed, wind direction, ambient temperature and sun position on the fine-scale movement ecology and perch orientation of a widespread damselfly, Enallagma doubledayi. Through field observations, I found that damselflies fly, forage and engage competitors in territorial interactions more often in calm rather than windy conditions. Furthermore, perched damselflies exhibit rheotaxis, in which individuals typically face into the wind, presumably to minimize biomechanical costs associated with drag and possibly to detect inbound prey on the water surface and in the air column. In contrast, ambient temperature and the position of the sun were largely unassociated with activity levels and damselfly orientation. At higher ambient temperatures, however, perched odonates faced the sun with increasing consistency, perhaps to thermoregulate by minimizing exposure to solar radiation. Taken together, these findings suggest that damselflies preferentially fly when the ratio of animal speed to wind speed is high and adjust their perch orientation to minimize energy loss. These findings strengthen conceptual links between activity budgets and perch orientation strategies among animals in variable abiotic conditions.
Re-Tooling Acquisitions for Lean Times. A Report of the ALCTS AS Organization and Management Committee Session, American Library Association Annual Conference

The ALCTS Acquisitions Section (AS) Organization and Management Committee session at ALA Annual in Orlando took place on June 26, 2016. It was co-sponsored by the ALCTS Cataloging and Metadata Mana...
Structural Interactions Between Alpha and Gamma Subunits of the Chloroplast ATP Synthase are Maintained After Trypsin Proteolysis

The soluble portion of the chloroplast ATP synthase (CF1) is a large multi-subunit structure with the stoichiometry α3β3γδe. CF1 subunits collectively participate in regulation, nucleotide binding and hydrolysis of ATP. The α and β subunits dominate the structure of CF1, forming a large pseudohexagonal ring. A portion of the γ subunit is found in the central cavity of the α/β structure (1), and the remainder is located underneath the aα/β ring, including the extra domain which contains the only disulfide bond in the enzyme. The δ and e subunits are exterior to the α/β ring structure.
Accurate Assignments of Excited-State Resonance Raman Spectra: A Benchmark Study Combining Experiment and Theory.

Femtosecond stimulated Raman scattering (FSRS) probes the structural dynamics of molecules in electronically excited states by following the evolution of the vibrational spectrum. Interpreting the dynamics requires accurate assignments to connect the vibrational bands with specific nuclear motions of an excited molecule. However, the assignment of FSRS signals is often complicated by mode-specific resonance enhancement effects that are difficult to calculate for molecules in electronically excited states. We present benchmark results for a series of eight aryl-substituted thiophene derivatives to show that calculated off-resonance Raman spectra can be used to assign experimental bands on the basis of a comparison of structurally similar compounds and careful consideration of the resonance condition. Importantly, we show that direct comparison with the off-resonant calculations can lead to incorrect assignments of the experimental spectrum if the resonance condition is neglected. These results highlight th...
People and plans in urbanising China: Challenging the top-down orthodoxy:

Urban development in China is strongly influenced by state policy in a context where even the emerging market actors are closely tied to government. The state role is reinforced by the absence of f...
The Schrödinger’s Cat of Gang Groups: Can Street Gangs Inform Our Comprehension of Skinheads and Alt-Right Groups?

Given the current political climate, the mainstreaming of Alt-Right groups, and growing public concern, this paper argues that gang scholars are well situated to investigate these Alt-Right groups ...
Heat-shock proteins can substitute for SecB function during protein export in Escherichia coli.

Abstract In this study we have shown that (i) induction of the heat-shock response can substitute for SecB function in Escherichia coli, (ii) SecB itself is not a heat-shock protein and (iii) a basal level of heat-shock proteins is required for cells to grow in the absence of a functional SecB protein. Overproduction of DnaK, or GroEL/ES, which were candidates for the heat-shock proteins that could substitute for SecB function, did not rescue the export defect caused when SecB was limiting or absent. In an attempt to identify the heat-shock protein(s) which could substitute for SecB function, unlinked suppressors of secB were isolated and characterized. Interestingly, most of the suppressors mapped to the rpoH locus. Since rpoH encodes sigma 32, the heat-shock transcription factor, it is likely that these suppressors affect the synthesis levels of heat-shock proteins that can substitute for SecB function. The remaining suppressors did not map to any known heat-shock or export genes. Collectively, our data suggest that these suppressors may represent unidentified heat-shock proteins or export factors that act in a manner similar to SecB in facilitating the export process in E. coli.
Tumor Microenvironment for Melanoma Cells

Melanoma represents an ideal experimental system to model the influence of the tumor microenvironment on neoplastic cells given that a rich collection of cell types is localized in the physiological environment. Melanoma cells actively interact with the tumor microenvironment in a bidirectional manner by orchestrating the normal cells. Human epidermal melanocytes can readily be isolated and used as a paradigm to understand the initiation and the initiation of their malignant counterparts, the melanoma cells. This chapter focuses on cell–cell communication between melanocytes and surrounding keratinocytes and fibroblasts and summarizes key growth factors and inflammatory cytokines that are important for melanocyte function and homeostasis. We will then propose a model of malignant transformation of melanocytes, in which microenvironmental signals play key roles.
Interface durability of construction materials externally reinforced with FRP composites

Publisher Summary This chapter presents a comprehensive study on service performance and fracture of construction materials externally reinforced with fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) composites. The durability and service performance of FRP wood interface bonds are evaluated using modified ASTM D2559. Interface fracture toughness data, under both dry and wet conditions, are experimentally obtained by an innovative contoured double cantilever beam (CDCB) specimen. The interface behavior of FRP-concrete assemblies is preliminarily evaluated under Mode-I fracture. To improve the performance and durability of the structures that are built of conventional construction materials (for example, wood and concrete), FRP composites are increasingly being used as reinforcement for wood and concrete. Current applications of wood reinforcement have focused on the use of FRP strips or fabrics bonded to wood members. Two types of FRP-wood reinforcements are applied: FRP strips (plates) bonded to wood (used commercially for glulam timber beams) and wood cores wrapped with FRP by filament winding (being investigated for reinforcement of railroad wood crossties or wood utility poles).
Alterations of the BCL-6 Gene in Diffuse Large-Cell Lymphoma

The molecular analysis of specific chromosomal translocations has improved our understanding of the pathogenesis of various non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) subtypes including follicular lymphoma (FL), Burkitt’s lymphoma (BL) and mantle-cell lymphoma, which are characterized by chromosomal translocations causing the deregulated expression of the BCL-2, C-MYC, and BCL-1, respectively (for review see Korsmeyer 1992, Dalla-Favera 1993, and Gaidano and Dalla-Favera 1992). However, relatively little is known about the molecular pathogenesis of diffuse large cell lymphoma (DLCL), the most frequent and most lethal human lymphoma (Magrath 1990). DLCL accounts for ~40% of initial NHL diagnoses and is often the final stage of progression of FL (Magrath 1990). Several molecular alterations have been detected at variable frequency in these tumors, but none has been specifically or consistently associated with the disease (Ladanyi et al. 1991, Offit et al. 1989a).
Vascular responses of dura mater.

The goal of this study was to examine vascular responses of the dura mater. Microspheres were used to measure blood flow to the dura and brain in anesthetized dogs. Under control conditions, blood flow to the dura was 38 +/- 3 (SE) ml.min-1.100 g-1. Values for blood flow to the dura obtained with simultaneous injection of 15- and 50-microns microspheres were similar, which suggests that shunting of 15-microns spheres was minimal. Left atrial infusion of substance P (100 ng.kg-1.min-1) and serotonin (40 micrograms.kg-1.min-1), two agonists that have been reported to increase vascular permeability in the dura, increased blood flow to the dura two- to threefold. Adenosine (iv) produced vasodilatation in the dura. Adenosine and serotonin did not affect cerebral blood flow, but substance P increased blood flow to the brain by approximately 40%. Seizures, which produce pronounced dilatation of cerebral vessels despite activation of sympathetic nerves, produced vasoconstriction in the dura. Thus 1) the dura is perfused at a relatively high level of blood flow under normal conditions and is very responsive to vasoactive stimuli, and 2) substance P and serotonin, which have been implicated in the pathogenesis of vascular headache, produce pronounced vasodilator responses in the dura mater.
Evaluation of Sitodiplosis mosellana (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) infestation and relationship with agronomic traits in selected spring wheat cultivars in northwestern Montana, United States of America

The wheat midge, Sitodiplosis mosellana Gehin (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae), is a serious pest of spring wheat in North America. Currently, most commercial cultivars in the state of Montana, United States of America are susceptible. A study was conducted to assess the variability of adapted spring wheat cultivars to wheat midge infestations. A secondary objective was to determine the relationship between wheat midge infestation levels and spring wheat agronomic traits, including yield, test weight, grain protein, plant height, and heading date. This relationship was determined by evaluating 16 hard red spring wheat cultivars over a six-year period at the Northwestern Agricultural Research Center, near Kalispell, Montana. Levels of infestation had a negative impact on grain yield and test weight. Overall, the average infestation level was 40 larvae/spike with the lowest being observed with “Reeder” and the highest for “Thatcher”. Concurrently, “Reeder” had the highest yield, whereas “Thatcher” had the lowest yield and the highest grain protein, demonstrating that wheat midge infestations were positively associated with grain protein. Heading date had a positive association with midge density with higher infestations associated with later maturing cultivars. The economic injury level was estimated at 12 and 20 midge larvae/spike for a market price of USD 0.16/kg, respectively.
Beneficiaries Respond To California’s Program To Integrate Medicare, Medicaid, And Long-Term Services

In 2014 California implemented a demonstration project called Cal MediConnect, which used managed care organizations to integrate Medicare and Medicaid, including long-term services and supports fo...
Manipulation of Cell-Type Selective Antibody Internalization by a Guide-Effector Bispecific Design.

Cell-type specific intracellular payload delivery is desired for antibody-based targeted therapy development. However, tumor-specific internalizing antigens are rare to find, and even rarer for those that are expressed at uniformly high levels. We constructed a bispecific antibody that is composed of a rapidly internalizing antibody binding to a tumor-associated antigen EphA2 and a non-internalizing antibody binding to a highly expressed tumor-associated antigen ALCAM. We found that the overall internalization property of the bispecific is profoundly impacted by the relative surface expression level (antigen density ratio) of EphA2 vs. ALCAM. When the EphA2 to ALCAM ratio is greater than a threshold level (1:5), the amount of the bispecific taken into the tumor cell exceeds what is achieved by either the monoclonal internalizing antibody or a mixture of the two antibodies, showing a bispecific-dependent amplification effect where a small amount of the internalizing antigen EphA2 induces internalization of a larger amount of non-internalizing antigen ALCAM. When the ratio is below the threshold, EphA2 can be rendered non-internalizing by the presence of excess ALCAM on the same cell surface. We constructed a bispecific antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) based on the above bispecific design, and found that the bispecific ADC is more potent than monospecific ADCs in tumor cell killing both in vitro and in vivo. Thus the internalizing property of a cell surface antigen can be manipulated in either direction by a neighboring antigen, and this phenomenon can be exploited for therapeutic targeting.
Abstract P145: Renal Inflammation and Injury is Associated with Increased Lymphangiogenesis in Hypertension

Hypertension is associated with immune system activation and inflammation. Renal infiltration of both innate and adaptive immune cells contributes to injury, dysfunction, and increased blood pressu...
Recent Clinical Advances in Pharmacotherapy for Levodopa-Induced Dyskinesia

Onset of involuntary movement patterns of the face, body and limbs are known as dyskinesia. They mostly appear in association with long-term levodopa (L-dopa) therapy in patients with Parkinson's disease. Consequences include patient distress, caregiver embarrassment and reduced quality of life. A severe intensity of this motor complication may result in troublesome disability; however, patients typically prefer motor behaviour with slight, non-troublesome dyskinesia to 'OFF' states. Pharmacotherapy of dyskinesia is complex. Continuous nigrostriatal postsynaptic dopaminergic receptor stimulation may delay onset of L-dopa-associated dyskinesia, while non-physiological, 'pulsatile' receptor stimulation facilitates appearance of dyskinesia. In the past, there have been many clinical trial failures with compounds that were effective in animal models of dyskinesia. Only the N-methyl-D-aspartate antagonist amantadine has shown moderate antidyskinetic effects in small well-designed clinical studies. Amantadine is an old antiviral compound, which moderately improves impaired motor behaviour. Recently, there has been a resurgence of its use due to the US Food and Drug Administration approval of an extended-release (ER) amantadine formulation for treatment of L-dopa-induced dyskinesia. This pharmacokinetic innovation improved dyskinesia and 'OFF' states in pivotal trials, with a once-daily oral application in the evening. Amantadine ER provides higher and more continuous amantadine plasma bioavailability than conventional immediate-release formulations, which require administration up to three times daily.
A discarded cigar package survey in New York City: indicators of non-compliance with local flavoured tobacco restrictions

Introduction In 2009, New York City (NYC) restricted the sale of flavoured tobacco products. We assessed product availability as a proxy for potential non-compliance by analysing discarded cigar, cigarillo and blunt wrap packages in New York City. Methods A discarded cigar package survey was conducted in 2016, in a stratified random sample of 94 block groups in NYC resulting in the collection of 886 discarded cigar packages. Each package was coded for brand name, flavour description (explicit and implicit) and size. Findings Overall, 19.2% of the cigar packages were explicitly flavoured. An additional 9.4% of the packages reflected implicit flavours. Explicit flavoured cigar packages were at increased odds of being found in Staten Island (adjusted OR (AOR)=3.96, 95% CI=1.66 to 9.46), in packaging size of two or three (AOR=8.49, 95% CI=4.24 to 17.02) or four or more (AOR=4.26, 95% CI=1.95 to 9.30). Conclusion Nearly one out of three cigar packages were flavoured products suggesting a problematic level of non-compliance and continued availability. Potential non-compliance is likely fueled by licensed wholesalers and retailers who continue to sell restricted flavoured products. Some retailers may be unaware that implicitly named cigars are typically flavoured and are, therefore, illegal. This lack of awareness of implicit flavoured cigars may be exacerbated by NYC’s lack of education or enforcement specific to implicitly flavoured tobacco products.
Niobium-substituted octahedral molecular sieve (OMS-2) materials in selective oxidation of methanol to dimethoxymethane

Octahedral molecular sieve (OMS-2) refers to a one-dimensional 2 × 2 framework of octahedral manganese oxo units based on the cryptomelane-type framework. Herein, we describe a niobium (Nb) substituted mixed metal oxide of Nb and Mn where the cryptomelane-type framework is retained. These materials are hydrothermally synthesized from the reaction of potassium permanganate, manganese sulfate, and homogeneous niobium(V) precursors. Niobium incorporation up to 31 mol% can be achieved without destroying the one dimensional 2 × 2 framework. The yields of the materials vary between 70 and 90%. These materials are analyzed by powder XRD, BET isotherm, TEM, SEM, XRF, and XPS studies. The synthesized materials show promising activity in selective oxidation of methanol to dimethoxymethane (DMM) at 200 °C. Normalized activity correlations followed the trend 21% Nb-OMS-2 > 15% Nb-OMS-2 > 31% Nb-OMS-2 > 68% Nb-OMS-2 > K-OMS-2. A fluctuation in methanol conversion was observed around 125–150 °C in most samples, suggesting this to be a catalytically important temperature regime when forming active sites for DMM production.
Impact of superhydrophobicity on the fluid dynamics of a bileaflet mechanical heart valve

Abstract Objective The objective of this study is to evaluate the impact of superhydrophobic coating on the hemodynamics and turbulence characteristics of a bileaflet mechanical valve in the context of evaluating blood damage potential. Methods Two 3D printed bileaflet mechanical valves were hemodynamically tested in a pulse duplicator under physiological pressure and flow conditions. The leaflets of one of the two valves were sprayed with a superhydrophobic coating. Particle Image Velocimetry was performed. Pressure gradients (PG), effective orifice areas (EOA), Reynolds shear stresses (RSS) and instantaneous viscous shear stresses (VSS) were calculated. Results (a) Without SH coating, the PG was found to be 14.53 ± 0.7 mmHg and EOA 1.44 ± 0.06 cm2. With coating, the PG obtained was 15.21 ± 1.7 mmHg and EOA 1.39 ± 0.07 cm2; (b) during peak systole, the magnitude of RSS with SH coating (110Pa) exceeded that obtained without SH coating (40 Pa) with higher probabilities to develop higher RSS in the immediate wake of the leaflet; (c) The magnitudes range of instantaneous VSS obtained with SH coating were slightly larger than those obtained without SH coating (7.0 Pa versus 5.0 Pa). Conclusion With Reynolds Shear Stresses and instantaneous Viscous Shear Stresses being responsible for platelet damage, SH coating did not lead to their decrease. While SH coating is known to improve surface properties such as reduced platelet or clot adhesion, the relaxation of the slip condition does not necessarily improve overall hemodynamic performance for the bileaflet mechanical valve design.
Changes in genetic variant results over time in pediatric cardiomyopathy and electrophysiology

Genetic testing for cardiac disorders continues to change. Our objective was to assess trends in variant classification in pediatric arrhythmia and cardiomyopathy. We conducted a retrospective review of patients tested for genetic arrhythmia and cardiomyopathy disorders from 2006-2017. Variants were classified by CLIA laboratories. Trends were assessed by the Spearman correlation. There were 914 variants in 583 patients from 337 families. The total number of tests ordered increased over time, accelerating after 2012. There was a strong positive correlation between the average number of genes tested per panel and year of testing (r = .97, p 50% of variants reported on panels. Over 12 years, 203 genes were interrogated; one or more variants were reported in 91 of 203 genes (45%). 32% of patients had at least one clinically actionable variant; 28% had at least one VUS. Reclassification is an important long-term issue, with 21.5% variants changing clinical interpretation. We observed an increase over time in three areas: total number of tests ordered, average number of genes/panel, and percentage of VUS. Providers may need to interpret results from 90 + genes, and ongoing education is critical. Due to their specific training in test result interpretation, we recommend the inclusion of a genetic counselor in pediatric electrophysiology and cardiomyopathy teams.
Research Seminars: A New Hope

The site researchseminars.org provides a crowdsourced list of seminars and conferences happening worldwide. We describe the history of the site, its current scope, and its prospects for the future.
Dissemination mechanisms of NDM genes in hospitalized patients.

Background NDM-producing Enterobacteriaceae are a major clinical concern worldwide. We characterized NDM-positive pathogens isolated from patients and assessed the dissemination patterns of the bla NDM genes in a hospital setting. Methods Eleven NDM-positive Enterobacteriaceae (three Enterobacter hormaechei, six Klebsiella pneumoniae and two Escherichia coli) were isolated from nine patients over a 1 year period. Antimicrobial susceptibility was assessed by MICs. A combination of short- and long-read WGS was used for genome analysis. Clinical treatment history of patients was linked with genetic features of individual isolates to investigate the dissemination patterns of the bla NDM genes and NDM-positive strains. Results bla NDM in clonal K. pneumoniae were transmitted between two patients. In other instances, an identical IncC plasmid encoding NDM-1 was transmitted between E. coli and K. pneumoniae isolated from the same patient, and an IncX3 plasmid, carrying bla NDM-1 or bla NDM-5, was harboured in non-clonal E. hormaechei. Varying patterns of IS elements were identified as a critical transmission mechanism in association with bla NDM genes. Conclusions Multiple transmission patterns were identified in hospitalized patients, including dissemination of clonal bacterial strains carrying resistance genes and horizontal transfer of resistance genes among divergent bacterial strains. Controlling spread of NDM is complex: while attention to standard infection control practices is critically important, this needs to be matched by aggressive efforts to limit unnecessary antimicrobial use, to minimize the selection for and risk of transfer of 'high mobility' resistance genes among Enterobacteriaceae.
A Study on Economics of Marketing and Production of Aonla in District Pratapgarh (U.P.)

The study was conducted, in Pratapgarh district of Uttar Pradesh. Random sampling technique was used for the selection of blocks, villages and proportionate random sampling for selection of growers. From the list, 200 growers were selected, using proportionate sampling method i.e. 90 small, 70 medium and 40 large farmers respectively. The primary data were collected from the respondents by using interview schedule, while secondary data were collected from the official records, published data, magazines etc. The marketable surplus for Aonla in the area was found to be 140, 160 and 180 quintals per farm which constituting (99.10%), (99.48%) and (99.48%) to their total Aonla production. Channel-I, Marketing cost when producers sold their produce to consumer in the market was Rs.90/quintal. Net price received by the producer is 410/quintal. Producer share in consumer price was 82 per cent. Price spread is Rs 90. Marketing efficiency was 5.55 per cent. Channel-II, Marketing cost when producers sold their produce to retailers was Rs.105/quintal. Among these cost transportation charges was most important which accounted for Rs.15/quintal, followed by loading and unloading cost Rs.10/quintal, market cost Rs.10/quintal, labour cost was Rs.10/quintal and miscellaneous cost Rs.50/quintal respectively. Sale price of the producer to retailer was Rs.500/quintals inn different farms size group. Channel-III, this is identified as the longest channel. The producer sells his produce to the commission agents, who in turn sell it to retailer in the market. Finally, the produce reaches to the consumer after collecting margin. Average marketing cost when producer sold their produce to commission agents, in the market was Rs.165. Among these grading, cleaning etc. was Rs. 10 and 10 per Qts. loading and unloading cost Rs. 10 per Qtl. Transportation cost Rs. 20per Qts, Miscellaneous charges Rs. 25/qts, respectively. View Article DOI: 10.47856/ijaast.2021.v08i9.016
Neurologic Dysfunction Associated With Mechanically Assisted Crevice Corrosion and Elevated Cobalt Ion Levels After Total Hip Arthroplasty

Abstract Adverse local tissue reactions secondary to mechanically assisted crevice corrosion (MACC) at the trunnion is a complication of total hip arthroplasty known to cause local soft-tissue damage. However, what is not as well appreciated is that MACC in metal-on-polyethylene (MOP) articulations can lead to cobalt ion serum elevations with associated neurological dysfunction just as in metal-on-metal articulations. We report a compelling case for the association of neurologic dysfunction tied to metal ion elevations secondary to MACC at two distinct MOP tapers in a 58-year-old intensive care unit nurse with two hips implanted 3 years apart. This report further raises awareness about the potential of MACC-generated elevated ion levels to produce neurological symptoms that might otherwise be overlooked in patients with MOP articulations.
The Humors in Hume's Skepticism

In the conclusion to the first book of the Treatise, Hume’s skeptical reflections have plunged him into melancholy. He then proceeds through a complex series of stages, resulting in renewed interest in philosophy. Interpreters have struggled to explain the connection between the stages. I argue that Hume’s repeated invocation of the four humors of ancient and medieval medicine explains the succession, and sheds a new light on the significance of skepticism. The humoral context not only reveals that Hume conceives of skepticism primarily as a temperament, not a philosophical view or system. It also resolves a puzzle about how Hume can view skepticism as both an illness and a cure. The skeptical temperament can, depending on its degree of predominance, either contribute to or upset the balance of temperaments required for proper mental functioning.
Structure and Shape of Surface-Mediated Assembly of Surfactants

Achieving controls on the self-assembly of cationic and block copolymer micelles has significant implications for advancing novel material systems for energy, environmental, and biological applicat...
Addressing Intimate Partner Violence in Rural Church Communities

Responding to intimate partner violence (IPV) is particularly challenging in rural communities due to many complicating factors. In this chapter, we consider cultural values that are unique to rural communities. Men and women in rural areas value self-sufficiency and often stigmatize mental health treatment. Furthermore, living in rural communities presents special challenges to receiving help when IPV is committed. Resources for help are often scarce or distantly located. Transportation is often an issue, and complicated by weather when traveling great distances. Religion is a core value in rural areas. Survivors of IPV can often receive strength and comfort from their personal relationship with God after abuse. We conclude the chapter by discussing best-practice recommendations for treatment in rural areas.
Casual convergence in unincorporated entity law

As seemingly uniform as the surface of the sea, unincorporated entity acts in most states are drafted from one of the National Conference of Commissioners on Uniform State Law’s (NCCUSL) uniform acts. In fact, by the end of 2013, seven states had adopted NCCUSL’s latest uniform act governing limited liability companies (LLCs), called the revised uniform limited liability company act, or RULLCA, and more have since followed.Supporters of uniformity, including NCCUSL, argue that uniformity among state LLC acts generates administrative and cost savings. Critics, on the other hand, argue that uniformity undermines state experimentation to achieve more efficient LLC laws.However, I argue in the chapter that these debates about uniformity are misguided. That is because, as I show through a qualitative study of the LLC acts of the first seven adopters of RULLCA, states diverge frequently, often extensively, from RULLCA. I also show, through qualitative interviews of practitioners on the committees that ushered through these new LLC acts, that uniformity was not a primary goal sought by most of these LLC act committees. Thus, I argue that a framework of casual convergence, rather than uniformity, better captures the posture of LLC law. By reformulating LLC law as casually convergent, commentators and policy makers can turn their debate to the advantages and disadvantages of such loose convergence, and whether it achieves the right balance between uniformity and state experimentation.