cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Survey of Muscalure ((Z)-9-tricosene) on House Flies (Diptera: Muscidae) from Field Populations in California

Abstract The sex pheromone component muscalure [(Z)-9-tricosene] on the cuticles of female house flies (Musca domestica L.) was quantified using gas chromatography. Laboratory and wild-strain house fly colonies were derived from poultry and dairy farms and a horse-riding stable. Muscalure levels from strain MB females were highest after 13 and 23 generations in culture, but 30–70% of females from early generations (F8–F12) had no detectable levels of muscalure. Flies <2 d old from the MB laboratory colony (F23) had less muscalure than did older flies, and levels tended to increase as flies aged from 3 to 8 d. Of 10 wild house fly populations sampled at 3 d of age (72–96 h old) between F1 and F7 in culture, 1 had no detectable muscalure, and 8 of 10 averaged ≤218 ng of muscalure per female, comprising ≤1.6% of total cuticular hydrocarbons. In 6 of 10 field populations, ≥67% of females had no detectable muscalure. In contrast, two field strains had average levels of 559 and 1,113 ng muscalure/female (compri...
Simulation of Non-Gaussian Stochastic Processes with Nonlinear Filters

Nonlinear filters are designed to generate stationary stochastic processes with the knowledge of their spectral densities and first-order probability densities. Two types of spectral densities are considered: the low-pass type and the narrow-band type. In particular, the nonlinear filters are represented in the form of Ito stochastic differential equations, in which the drift coefficients are adjusted to match the spectral density, and the diffusion coefficients are determined according to the probability distribution. The scheme can be used to generate excitation random processes which are clearly non-Gaussian. Since such excitations are described by stochastic differential equations, they can be combined with the governing equations of the excited dynamical systems in analytical investigation, or as a basis for Monte Carlo simulation.
Interface-driven spin-torque ferromagnetic resonance by Rashba coupling at the interface between nonmagnetic materials

The Rashba-Edelstein effect stems from the interaction between the electron's spin and its momentum induced by spin-orbit interaction at an interface or a surface. It was shown that the inverse Rashba-Edelstein effect can be used to convert a spin current into a charge current. Here, we demonstrate the reverse process of a charge- to spin-current conversion at a Bi/Ag Rashba interface. We show that this interface-driven spin current can drive an adjacent ferromagnet to resonance. We employ a spin-torque ferromagnetic resonance excitation/detection scheme which was developed originally for a bulk spin-orbital effect, the spin Hall effect. In our experiment, the direct Rashba-Edelstein effect generates an oscillating spin current from an alternating charge current driving the magnetization precession in a neighboring permalloy (Py, ${\mathrm{Ni}}_{80}{\mathrm{Fe}}_{20}$) layer. Electrical detection of the magnetization dynamics is achieved by a rectification mechanism of the time dependent multilayer resistance arising from the anisotropic magnetoresistance.
A Side-Impact Torsion Kolsky Bar

A novel variant of the torsion Kolsky bar which utilizes a side-impact mechanism to achieve a more tractable torsional pulse-shaping technique has been developed. Integration of components from the well-established compression Kolsky bar experimental technique with the torsion Kolsky bar method allows conventional compression techniques to be applied to a torsion experiment. Typical considerations involving striker length, striker velocity, and pulse-shaper geometry, which are used to generate a desired waveform in a compression bar, can be directly applied to the side-impact torsion technique to control pulse length, rotational velocity, and waveform profile. The results from experiments show that the apparatus successfully generates torsional waveforms using conventional pulse shaping techniques.
A method for quantifying blood flow distribution among the alveoli of the lung.

Abstract This article describes a method for quantifying blood flow distribution among lung alveoli. Our method is based on analysis of trapping patterns of small diameter (4 μm) fluorescent latex particles infused into lung capillaries. Trapping patterns are imaged using confocal microscopy, and the images are analyzed statistically using SAS subroutines. The resulting plots provide a quantifiable way of assessing interalveolar perfusion distribution in a way that has not previously been possible. Methods for using this technique are described, and the SAS routines are included. This technique can be an important tool for learning how this critical vascular bed performs in health and disease.
Adherence to Colorectal Cancer and Polyps Screening Recommendations Among Filipino-Americans

This cross-sectional study explored the perceptions and behaviors toward colorectal cancer screening and the predictors of adherence to colorectal cancer and polyps screening recommendations among Filipino-Americans. A total of 188 participants were recruited from community churches in southern California from September to November 2011. About half of the participants were found to be adherent to the screening recommendations. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed the following significant predictors of adherence: having a relative with colon or rectal cancer (odds ratio [OR] = 6.17), having heard of fecal occult blood test (OR = 4.58), strong agreement with benefit of screening in reducing worry about cancer (OR = 2.81), age ≥ 65 years (OR = 2.64) and very easy communication with providers (OR = 2.43). Patient awareness of colorectal cancer screening and its benefits through effective patient-provider communication were significant modifiable predictors of adherence to colorectal cancer and polyps screening recommendations. Nurses could have a major impact in improving screening behaviors through patient education in increasing patient awareness and benefits of cancer screening.
A Study of Seven Different Salts of Penicillin

In a previous publication' it was demonstrated that the toxicity of 6 salts of penicillin was primarily due to the cations used in their preparation, and that the relative toxicity of the salts studied, in order of increasing toxicity, was Na, NH4, Sr, Ca, Mg and K. All of the above salts were prepared on a small scale under laboratory conditions. In extending this investigation, studies have been made of another group of 7 salts of penicillin produced commercially.* These salts, which included those listed above as well as The chloroform layer was separated, dried with anhydrous sodium sulfate, and held at -3 C. For the preparation of the individual salts aliquot portions were taken and extracted to a PH of 6.5 to 6.8 with aqueous solutions or suspensions of lithium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, potassium bicarbonate, ammonium hydroxide, calcium hydroxide, strontium hydroxide and magnesium carbonate. The aqueous penicillin salt solutions measured about 300 cc for each 4,000,000 units. The solutions were adjusted to PH 6.1 to 6.2 with lac-
Engaging software estimation education using LEGOs: a case study

Software Estimation is an important part of every Software Engineers' skill set. At Stevens Institute of Technology, we have taught Estimation as part of our Software Engineering Masters Program since 2001. Over the past few years, we have evolved our teaching style to be more experiential and engaging. This case study describes an evolving software engineering pedagogical method using LEGOs, which allows students to get hands-on practice and feedback on their estimation skills and techniques, as well as testing some of the commonly held estimation heuristics. The results of the classroom exercises are positive; the students are very involved and the estimation processes and results are consistent with other software engineering estimation heuristics and models. Student experience Wide-band Delphi, custom models using historical data, the "wisdom of the crowds," estimation model factors (e.g., complexity, motivation, expertise level) and the impact of team size. This teaching technique, since it appears to reinforce software engineering estimation heuristics and models, has the potential to be extended for other software estimation experiential education and experimentation, such as demonstrating the impact of anchoring on estimations. In addition, the students have fun doing these exercises, and become totally engaged in the subject.
Developing Distance Education Content Using the TAPPA Process

The proliferation of distance education has occurred alongside the emerging technologies of the Web 2.0 and Web 3.0 environments, changing the way instructors approach, design, and deliver their instructional materials. In the past, instructional design (ID) practitioners relied on instruction system design (ISD) models that focused primarily on macroinstruction. It is now important for these practitioners to use microinstruction strategies to keep pace with the technology evolution. This case study describes the TAPPA (Target, Accomplishment, Past, Prototype, Artifact) Process which was created using the Generic Model for Design Research (GMDR) proposed by McKenney and Reeves (2012) and uses selected ID concepts from the ADDIE (Molenda Performance Improvement, 42(5), 34–37, 2003) framework, and the Dick and Carey (Dick Educational Technology Research and Development, 44(3), 55–63, 1996), Backwards Design (McTighe n.d), and Rapid Prototyping ID Models (Tripp and Bichelmeyer Educational Technology Research and Development, 38(1), 31–44, 1990). The TAPPA Process is ideally suited for the microinstruction development typical of distance education environments and has been used to create more than 25 webinars and 12 e-learning modules over the past four years.
Traumatic Rupture of the Corpus Cavernosum: Evaluation and Management

Rupture of the corpus cavernosum is a rare but probably under-reported entity. It truly represents a urological emergency and current recommendations are for early surgical intervention. We review 5 cases with evaluation, treatment and followup. Delays in treatment lead to long-term complications, such as erectile dysfunction and penile curvature.
Correlates of the Self to Depressive Phenomena

The infant’s emerging acquisition of a sense of self represents a crucial developmental milestone. Self, as discussed in this chapter, is a concept embracing both cognitive and affective correlates.
Vanishing Bronchus After Lung Transplantation: The Role of Sequential Airway Dilatations.

Background: Airway complications after lung transplant play an important role in patient survival. Early recognition and treatment of these complications are necessary to help ensure that patients who receive lung transplants have good outcomes. Case Report: A 61-year-old female with a history of pulmonary venous occlusive disease presented to our hospital for a double-lung transplant. Her postoperative course was complicated by severe primary graft dysfunction. Airway examination showed significant mucosal ischemia distal to the anastomosis bilaterally with diffuse narrowing of all distal bronchial segments. Repeat bronchoscopies with debridement of necrotic material and balloon dilatation of stenotic airways were performed to maintain airway patency. Conclusion: Post–lung transplant airway necrosis and stenosis mandate early identification and treatment. Repetitive bronchoscopies with sequential balloon dilatations are mandatory to prevent future airway stenosis and airway vanishing.
Vigilance or Subversion? Constitutive and Inducible M Cells in Mucosal Tissues

Microfold (M) cells are epithelial cells present in mucosal tissues and specialized for the capture of luminal microparticles and their delivery to underlying immune cells; thus, they are crucial participants in mucosal immune surveillance. Multiple phenotypic subsets of M cells have now been described, all sharing a unique apical morphology that provides clues to their ability to capture microbial particles. The existence of diverse M cell phenotypes, especially inflammation-inducible M cells, provides an intriguing puzzle: some variants may augment luminal surveillance to boost mucosal immunity, while others may promote microbial access to tissues. Here, I consider the unique induction requirements of each M cell subset and functional differences, highlighting the potentially distinct consequences in mucosal immunity.
Zomepirac (Zomax, McNeil Pharmaceutical).

Zomepirac Sodium (Zomax) is a pyrrole-acetic acid structurally related to tolmetin sodium (see Figure 1). Zomepirac is a prostaglandin synthetase inhibitor and is not an opioid, an opioid antagonist, or a salicylate. It is the sodium salt of 5-(4-chlorobenzoyl)-1,4 dimethyl-1H-pyrrole-2-acetate dihydrate. Zomepirac has recently been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for marketing in the United States as an analgesic. It is indicated for all forms of mild to moderately severe pain, and is being promoted as a "comprehensive, non-addicting analgesic."
Modeling Cardinal Direction Relations in 3D for Qualitative Spatial Reasoning

Many fundamental geoscience concepts and tasks require advanced spatial knowledge about the topology, orientation, shape, and size of spatial objects. Besides topological and distance relations, cardinal directions also can play a prominent role in the determination of qualitative spatial relations; one of the facets of spatial objects is the determination of relative positioning of objects. In this paper, we present an efficient approach to representing and determining cardinal directions between free form regions. The development is mathematically sound and can be implemented more efficiently than the existing models. Our approach preserves converseness of direction relations between pairs of objects, while determining directional relations between gridded parts of the complex regions. All the essential details are in 2D. Yet the extension to 3D is seamless; it needs no additional formulation for transition from 2D to 3D. Furthermore, the extension to 3D and construction of a composition table has no adverse impact on the computational efficiency, as the technique is akin to 2D.
Maternal Coping Skills as a Moderator Between Depression and Stressful Life Events: Effects on Children's Behavioral Problems in an Intervention Program

In this study, I report secondary analyses using data from the Infant Health and Development Program (IHDP). The IHDP included parent-targeted as well as child-targeted components as an integral part of early intervention programs. I examined three questions: (1) Do the IHDP early intervention services enhance adaptive maternal coping skills? (2) Do maternal coping skills moderate the relationship between stressful life events and maternal depression? (3) Are maternal coping skills associated with children's behavioral scores? Mothers in the treatment group have more adaptive coping skills than follow-up only mothers, and these effects are moderated by maternal characteristics. Adaptive coping skills moderate the effects of negative life events on maternal depression. Adaptive maternal coping skills are significantly associated with fewer behavioral problems for children at age three. These effects are moderated by the intervention. Implications for early intervention programs are discussed.
Media formulation optimization: current and future opportunities

Chemically defined cell culture media is a complex mixture of molecules used for cellular metabolism and growth. Decisions surrounding which molecules to include in a formulation and their optimal concentration is a major endeavor in biomanufacturing. Cellular metabolic complexity and stringent quality requirements that vary across cell lines require time-consuming, iterative experimentation to optimize media formulation. Exacerbating this is the orders-of-magnitude concentration differences among media components making media characterization difficult. This review describes the challenges, advances and strategies currently used to optimize media formulations as well as future opportunities for improvement.
Profilin-1 modulates proliferation and survival of breast cancer cells

2600 Objective: Profilin-1 (Pfn1) expression is down-regulated in several different types of adenocarcinoma (breast, pancreas, hepatic) and over-expression of Pfn1 completely suppresses tumorigenicity of breast cancer cell lines in xenograft-based animal models therefore implying that Pfn1 is a tumor-suppressor protein. The objective of the present work is to elucidate the cellular and molecular basis underlying Pfn1’s tumor-suppressive action. Methods: MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell lines stably expressing either GFP (control) or GFP-Pfn1 were used in the present study. Results: Consistent with their failure to induce tumor formation in xenograft models, GFP-Pfn1 expressing cells displayed dramatically reduced proliferation and increased susceptibility to TNF-induced apoptosis when compared to either parental or GFP-expressers. Immunoblot analyses of cell-cycle markers demonstrated a significant up-regulation in the level of p27kip1, a major cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor, in Pfn1 over-expressing cells. Furthermore, Pfn1 over-expression decreases the activation of AKT (a PIP3-dependent process that is central to the regulation of cell proliferation and survival) in MDA-MB-231 cells. Consistent with this biochemical finding, we found that Pfn1 over-expressing cells displayed a nearly 2-fold reduction in the fluorescence intensity of PIP3 immunostaining compared to control cells thus suggesting for the first time that perturbing Pfn1 can modulate phosphoinositide-dependent signaling in breast cancer cells. Conclusion: Overall, these results indicate that tumor-suppressive action of Pfn1 for breast cancer cells could be linked to its modulation of both cell proliferation and survival pathways.
PREDICTIVE VALUE OF SIX MINUTE WALK TEST IN HEART FAILURE PATIENTS: IMPLICATIONS FOR FUTURE CLINICAL TRIALS

Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) has been shown to improve outcomes, but its impact on 6-minute walk test (6MWT) is less known. Furthermore, the utility of the change in 6MWT to predict long-term CRT outcomes compared to other well-known predictors such as echocardiography response is not
EMERGENT SYLLABLE COMPLEXITY IN COLLOQUIAL BAMANA.

Data from two varieties of Bamanankan, or Bambara, a Mande language spoken in Mali and surrounding nations, illustrate differences in permissible syllable shapes between the variants. A comparison of the Classic variety of the language spoken in Segou and that spoken by a younger cohort of individuals in the Malian capital reveals that the latter variety is synchronically developing complex CCV and CVC syllable shapes primarily through vocalic syncope, whereas the classical variety permits only maximal CV syllables. Data presented in this study show that this complexification of syllables in Bamako Bamana is one manifestation of the overall drive towards word minimization in this variety of the language. These data illustrate that this variety of Bamana has preferential patterns of deletion that are largely dependent on phonotactic constraints and permissible syllable contact that results from syncope. Additionally, other processes that interact with syncope or prevent it from occurring are explored.
Asynchronous Distributed Matrix Balancing and Application to Suppressing Epidemic

This paper presents an efficient asynchronous distributed algorithm for the problem of balancing a nonnegative matrix using a network of processors, each of which has access to a portion of the global matrix. The goal of the algorithm is for the processors to collaborate through local information exchange so that each processor can determine its local weighting coefficients that balance the matrix. Our algorithm is of Gauss-Seidel type with strict relaxation and converges geometrically under mild assumptions on the communication model between neighboring processors. The analysis of our algorithm is based on a novel reformulation of matrix balancing as a network consensus problem, from which an upper bound on the convergence rate can be derived. Finally, we demonstrate the applicability of the algorithm to a problem of optimally allocating curing resources for suppressing epidemic spread in a directed weighted network, where the spreading dynamic is captured by a susceptible-infected-susceptible model.
Identification of first-in-class, naturally occurring LAG3 checkpoint inhibitor

Abstract Background Despite the impressive impact of CTLA4 and PD-1/L1 cancer immunotherapy, a large proportion of patients with many tumor types fail to respond. Lymphocyte activation gene 3 (LAG3) is the third checkpoint receptor that plays an important role in the pathogenesis of cancer. We have previously described a novel methodology in the identification of therapeutic antibodies (US Patent #9810694). Here we report the discovery of first-in-class, naturally occurring LAG3 checkpoint inhibitor in cancer patients. Methods Anti-LAG3 antibody presence was evaluated in 35 individuals: 11 healthy donors (controls) and 24 cancer patients in 3 different laboratories blinded to clinical information. Surface plasmon resonance analysis was done using the optical biosensor Biacore T200 where LAG3 protein was covalently immobilized on the optical chip and biosensor signals from human serum samples were analyzed. Western Blotting used recombinant LAG3 loaded on a 10% SDS PAGE followed by blotting with plasma samples followed by biotinylated anti-human Ig and IrDye 800 streptavidin. Plasma anti-LAG3 IP utilized recombinant LAG3 crosslinked to MagResyn Carboxyl beads followed by incubation with plasma, followed by a biotinylated anti-human Ig and IrDye streptavidin. Affinity purification protocol with elution of antigen-specific antibody with pH gradient was developed. REmAb™ Protein Sequencing with WILD™ analysis (Rapid Novor) is performed. Results No anti-LAG3 antibodies were detected in the control group. Among three assays there was a complete correlation for presence of anti-LAG3 antibody in 5 patients. Three of these patients had sufficient plasma quantity and anti-LAG3 concentration (21 – 33 µg/ml) to allow for the antibody purification. Immunoglobulin isotypes were IgG and IgM. The ELISA results of purified antibody samples showed a high quantity of LAG3-specific antibody (0.22 mg, 0.52 mg, 0.3 mg in each sample, respectively). The results of the characterization of novel LAG3 checkpoint inhibitor will be presented at the congress. Conclusions To our knowledge, this is the first report of checkpoint antibody presence in humans. Further study with cloning and evaluation of therapeutic properties of novel anti-LAG3 antibody in xenograft models will be performed. Legal entity responsible for the study The authors. Funding ILGEN Inc. Disclosure I. Tsimafeyeu: Research grant / Funding (self), Shareholder / Stockholder / Stock options, Full / Part-time employment: ILGEN Inc. G. Bratslavsky: Shareholder / Stockholder / Stock options, Officer / Board of Directors: ILGEN Inc.
Abstract 241: Pharmacological Evaluation of Novel Anti-thrombospondin-1 Decoy Strategy for Prophylaxis of Atrial Fibrillation-associated Ischemic Stroke

Hemostatic abnormalities mainly decreased blood flow and increased stasis, and platelet hyper-aggregation increase thrombotic risk subsequent atrial fibrillation (AF) episodes. Excess elevation of ...
Psychogeographic visualizations: or, what is it like to be a bat?:

What is it like to be a bat? is an artistic experiment that uses brainwave visualization as a way to speak about affective, cognitive, and imaginative geography – partly through the generation of r...
Reward-Conditioned Policies.

Reinforcement learning offers the promise of automating the acquisition of complex behavioral skills. However, compared to commonly used and well-understood supervised learning methods, reinforcement learning algorithms can be brittle, difficult to use and tune, and sensitive to seemingly innocuous implementation decisions. In contrast, imitation learning utilizes standard and well-understood supervised learning methods, but requires near-optimal expert data. Can we learn effective policies via supervised learning without demonstrations? The main idea that we explore in this work is that non-expert trajectories collected from sub-optimal policies can be viewed as optimal supervision, not for maximizing the reward, but for matching the reward of the given trajectory. By then conditioning the policy on the numerical value of the reward, we can obtain a policy that generalizes to larger returns. We show how such an approach can be derived as a principled method for policy search, discuss several variants, and compare the method experimentally to a variety of current reinforcement learning methods on standard benchmarks.
Tailoring the surgical corridor to the basilar apex in the pretemporal transcavernous approach: morphometric analyses of different neurovascular mobilization maneuvers

The pretemporal transcavernous approach (PTA) provides optimal exposure and access to the basilar artery (BA); however, the PTA can be invasive when vital neurovascular structures are mobilized. The goal of this study was to evaluate mobilization strategies to tailor approaches to the BA. After an orbitozygomatic craniotomy, 10 sides of 5 cadaveric heads were used to assess the surgical access to the BA via the opticocarotid triangle (OCT), carotid-oculomotor triangle (COT), and oculomotor-tentorial triangle (OTT). Measurements were obtained, and morphometric analyses were performed for natural neurovascular positions and after each stepwise expansion maneuver. An imaginary line connecting the midpoints of the limbus sphenoidale and dorsum sellae was used as a reference to normalize the measurements of BA exposure and to facilitate the clinical applicability of this technique. In the OCT, the exposed BA segment ranged from − 1 ± 3.9 to + 6 ± 2.0 mm in length in its natural position. In the COT, the accessible BA segment ranged from − 4 ± 2.3 to − 2 ± 3.0 mm in length in its natural position. Via the OTT, the accessible BA segment ranged from − 7 ± 2.6 to − 5 ± 2.8 mm in length in its natural position. In the OCT, COT, and OTT, a posterior clinoidectomy extended the exposure down to − 6 ± 2.7, − 8 ± 2.5, and − 9 ± 2.9 mm, respectively. This study quantitatively evaluated the need for the expansion maneuvers in the PTA to reach BA aneurysms according to the patient’s anatomical characteristics.
RACIALIZATION OF LATINX IMMIGRANTS: The Role of (Seemingly) Positive Newspaper Discourse

Xenophobic narratives that describe Latinx immigrants as culturally deficient, threatening, and undeserving lawbreakers have received extensive scrutiny from the public and academics alike. However, few scholars have examined the positive narratives that surround this group, an especially important line of inquiry given the nature and prevalence of colorblind racial ideology today. In this paper, we consider how (seemingly) positive elite news media discourse contributes to the racialization of Latinx immigrants. We analyzed 1383 frames derived from newspaper articles appearing on the front page of The New York Times between 2001 and 2019. We found that even supportive articles contribute to the racialization of this group by subtly reinforcing boundaries between “us” and “them,” especially when compared to positive articles about non-Latinx immigrants. Specifically, positive newspaper articles portrayed Latinx immigrants as economically exploitable, as vulnerable but blameworthy, and as mostly illegal. We also found that positive newspaper articles portrayed both Latinx and non-Latinx immigrants as devoted to their families and traditional gender roles. However, we argue that this depiction reinforces a hierarchy based on White notions of deservingness. Our analysis shows the flexibility of colorblind discourse to prop up existing racial hierarchies in U.S. society and to “Other” racial and ethnic minorities.
Review of Alfred W. McCoy, In the Shadows of the American Century: The Rise and Decline of Us Global Power. New York: Haymarket Books, 2017. Pp. 359. $18 Paperback.

McCoy sheds light on the foundations of the American empire, how it operates, and the significant overlooked costs of the U.S. government’s militaristic foreign policy. This contribution is, in itself, extremely valuable and necessary. McCoy also identifies some of the key factors that pose potential threats to America’s standing in the world. Although we cannot predict the future, we can have a conversation about the nuances of these factors and what they mean for domestic and international policy. Finally, if McCoy is ultimately right, and the American empire fades away, his book will be a crucial source for understanding the causes of that decline.
The Effect of Bond Market Transparency on Bank Loan Contracting

We find that bond issuers receive bank loans with 12% fewer covenants when the secondary corporate bond market becomes more transparent. The treatment effect is more pronounced when bond trades are more informative, when stock prices are less informative, and when the likelihood of future debt-equity agency conflicts is higher. The evidence suggests that bond prices in a transparent secondary bond market reflect forward-looking information that mitigates banks’ information risk when entering into loan contracts. As such, banks impose fewer contractual restrictions in lending agreements. Treatment firms are also less likely to employ gradually tightening dynamic-threshold covenants as a signaling device. Finally, we find corroborating evidence from primary bond issues. Taken together, our findings suggest that secondary bond market frictions affect debt contract design.
New products that facilitate stealth vaping: the case of SLEAV

Stealth vaping (ie, the use of devices resembling everyday products to facilitate inconspicuous vaping) has proliferated in the face of smoke-free air laws that include electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes).1–3 To this end, companies are modifying smartwatches, video games, toys and apparel to help conceal vaping when it is prohibited. For example, Vaprwear Gear’s backpacks and hoodies use a silicone tube designed to connect to an e-cigarette through their pockets or straps, hiding the device itself.4 These products may appeal to adolescents as they help conceal the use of e-cigarettes from their parents and teachers. In the spring of 2020, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) took measures to reduce stealth vaping among youths by issuing warning letters to numerous companies, including Vaprwear Gear, Vapewear, Wizman, EightCig, Ejuicepack, Vape Royalty, VapeCentric, Dukhan Store, VapeSourcing and Shenzhen Uwell Technology,4 expressing concern that they each marketed stealth vaping products to youths. Additional …
Evaluation of aspirin platelet inhibition in left ventricular assist device population.

INTRODUCTION: Aspirin therapy is recommended in durable left ventricular assist device (LVAD) patients to prevent thromboembolic complications. Up to 30% of patients treated with aspirin may demonstrate aspirin resistance, which has been related to thrombotic complications. However, it is unknown whether individual patients exhibit temporal alterations in aspirin sensitivity during LVAD support. We hypothesized that aspirin platelet inhibition would wane after the initial postimplant period. METHODS: This was a retrospective, observational, single center study conducted at an academic medical center. This study evaluated changes in aspirin platelet inhibition over the first 6 months of LVAD support. Patients who underwent placement of centrifugal LVAD with aspirin platelet sensitivity assays were included for analysis. Aspirin responsiveness was assessed postimplant after 5 days, 3 months, and 6 months. RESULTS: A total of 28 patients were included for analysis of which 7% of patients were aspirin resistant initially. At 3 months, 32% (odds ratio [OR], 6.1, p = .03) of patients were aspirin resistant and 28% (OR, 4.1, p = .1) at 6 months. Over the first 3 months postimplant, the odds of aspirin resistance increased sixfold and remained relatively constant at 6 months. Patients who were aspirin resistant and received an increase in aspirin dose at 3 months subsequently had a sensitive ARU at 6 months. CONCLUSION: Aspirin responsiveness not only varies between patients but can significantly wane within individual LVAD patients over time. Additional study is needed to determine if monitoring aspirin resistance may prevent thrombotic complications after LVAD implantation.
CrowdBand: An Automated Crowdsourcing Sound Composition System

CrowdBand, a sound composition system, demonstrates how a crowd can create works that meet requested criteria and fulfill the aesthetic character given by keyword description and examples. CrowdBand allows flexibility in music composition in terms of duration of the music, completion time and cost of music composition by giving the requestor two modes - thrifty and normal. CrowdBand’s workflow divides the composition task into three sections: requesting fundamental sounds, assembling sounds into compositions, and evaluating the results. Based on the crowd workers’ responses, we conclude that crowdsourced workers who are non-musicians can design sound and create novel sound compositions through CrowdBand. We also conclude that CrowdBand gives the musically-untrained crowd workers the ability to use common compositional techniques, such as sound layering, vertical stacking of sounds to create harmonic effects, related melodic lines (contrapuntal techniques), and transitions between aesthetic notions, or sound themes. Finally, we show improved, faster results with successive simplification and examples.
Efficacy of in and out of hospital CPR

The aim of the study was to examine the efficacy of in-hospital (wards, ICU), and out of hospital (Emergency Medical System, EMS) cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) application.
Determinants of Children's Exhaled Nitric Oxide: New Insights from Quantile Regression.

While the fractional concentration of exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) has proven useful in asthma research, its exact role in clinical care remains unclear, in part due to unexplained inter-subject heterogeneity. In this study, we assessed the hypothesis that the effects of determinants of the fractional concentration of exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) vary with differing levels of FeNO. In a population-based cohort of 1542 school children aged 12–15 from the Southern California Children's Health Study, we used quantile regression to investigate if the relationships of asthma, socio-demographic and clinical covariates with FeNO vary across its distribution. Differences in FeNO between children with and without asthma increased steeply as FeNO increased (Estimated asthma effects (in ppb) at selected 20th, 50th and 80th percentiles of FeNO are 2.4, 6.3 and 22.2, respectively) but the difference was steeper with increasing FeNO in boys and in children with active rhinitis (p-values<0.01). Active rhinitis also showed significantly larger effects on FeNO at higher concentrations of FeNO (Estimated active rhinitis effects (in ppb) at selected 20th, 50th and 80th percentiles of FeNO are 2.1, 5.7 and 14.3, respectively). Boys and children of Asian descent had higher FeNO than girls and non-Hispanic whites; these differences were significantly larger in those with higher FeNO (p-values<0.01). In summary, application of quantile regression techniques provides new insights into the determinants of FeNO showing substantially varying effects in those with high versus low concentrations.
Frequency domain characterization of two time scale sampled data systems

Sampled data systems having two frequency scale behavior are introduced. Properties of these systems are characterized in terms of their transfer matrices. An approximation theorem is given by which a two frequency scale sampled data (TFS-SD) system can be approximated in terms of its low and high frequency parts. The relationship between a TFS-SD system and its time domain counterpart, a two time scale sampled data (TTS-SD) system, is established. >
Indocyanine Green Angiography Aids in Prediction of Limb Salvage in Vascular Trauma.

Background In cases of severe vascular trauma, traditional means for assessing viability using Doppler and angiography can have limited application. Indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) allows for a rapid qualitative assessment of tissue perfusion that serves as an important adjunct to these traditional methods, which can also be particularly helpful in guiding therapy. Methods/Results We present a case of complicated ankle fracture with severe vascular compromise, which illustrates the role of ICGA as an assessment tool to guide therapy and decision-making in cases of acute limb threat. ICGA using SPY system (Novadaq, Bonita Springs, FL) was performed as part of our initial assessment to evaluate the extent of malperfusion and potential for revascularization. Preprocedural imaging with ICGA showed very limited uptake in the foot. Treatment was also performed with traditional angiography and infusion of intra-arterial nitroglycerin into the posterior tibial artery. Postprocedure imaging with ICGA was performed a day later and showed marked difference in the perfusion profile, with rapid uptake into the forefoot and toes, which corresponded with the patient's clinical improvement. The patient went on to have complete limb salvage. Conclusions The addition of ICGA for assessment of tissue perfusion in cases of complex vascular trauma has several implications: it guides surgical therapy for excision of devitalized tissue and aids in decision-making for major considerations such as revascularization efforts or amputation.
A Focused Target Segmentation Paradigm

In this paper we present new algorithms for target detection/segmentation in second generation Forward Looking Infra-Red (FLIR) images. An initial detection algorithm that models the background using Weibull functions, is used to identify candidate target locations in the image. A two-stage focused analysis of each candidate target location is then performed to get an accurate representation of the target boundary. A region-growing procedure is used to get an initial estimate of the target region, which is then combined with salient edge information in the image to arrive at a more accurate representation of the target boundary. The region and edge integration is done using a novel method that uses a Bayes' minimum risk classification approach. Finally, to reduce the false alarm rate, a higher level interpretation module is used to classify the detected areas as man-made or natural objects using geometric and FLIR-intensity based features extracted from the target.
Outcomes of Crural Ligation Surgery for Isolated Crural Venous Leak

ABSTRACT Introduction Venous ligation surgery results for diffuse venous leak have been disappointing, although in isolated crural venous leak (ICVL) cases, efficacy for crural ligation surgery (CLS) has been demonstrated. Aim The purpose of this study was to present our experience with treatment of ICVL with CLS. Methods All patients underwent preoperative cavernosometry. Cavernosography (CG) or perineal compression (PC) was used to define the diagnosis of ICVL. If CG demonstrated ICVL or flow‐to‐maintain values normalized with PC, the patient was counseled regarding CLS. Baseline and postoperative erectile function (EF) was assessed by the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaire. Main Outcome Measures EF, using the EF domain (EFD) score of the IIEF, a domain with six questions with a maximum score of 30 and a minimum score of 6 in the sexually active male. All patients completed the questionnaire preoperatively and in a serial fashion after surgery at a time point after 12 months postoperatively. Results 14 patients underwent CLS. Mean age was 29 ± 7 years. Also, 64% had primary erectile dysfunction. Mean baseline IIEF‐EF score was 18 ± 6. Furthermore, 71% of patients had failed phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors and 6/10 (60%) failed intracavernosal injections (ICI). Mean postoperative EFD score was 24 ± 3 representing a mean change of 6.5 points per patient. No patient needed ICI after CLS; however, 4/14 patients needed PDE5 inhibitors, all of whom had been using ICI preoperatively. In addition, 71% experienced unassisted sexual intercourse after CLS. Conclusions In a highly selected population of young men with ICVL, CLS cures 70% and improves EF in more than 90% of men. Surgical treatment of ICVL by CLS can be performed safely and with sufficient efficacy that larger and longer term studies should be undertaken. Flores S, Tal R, O’Brien K, and Mulhall JP. Outcomes of crural ligation surgery for isolated crural venous leak. J Sex Med **;**:**–**.
Antihypertensive Therapy and New-Onset Diabetes

Numerous analyses demonstrate that antihypertensive therapies promote development of type-2 diabetes mellitus. This is particularly true in obesity patients with impaired glucose tolerance. Numerous randomized studies provide evidence that the use of diuretics and β blockers produces the highest risk for conversion to diabetes, whereas angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin-receptor blockers (ARB) lead to less new-onset diabetes compared to placebo. β Blockers worsen glycemic control through worsening of insulin resistance and reduced flow to muscle whereas diuretics impair glucose metabolism, in part, through reducing potassium. Thus, diuretics and β blockers not only increase glucose in those with diabetes but also promote the development of new-onset diabetes in those with glucose intolerance. Given the latest guidelines, β blockers are not indicated for routine use to treat hypertension and diuretics should be reserved for second- or third-line agents. Data from the NICE guidelines in the United Kingdom put diuretics as third-line agents after blockers of the renin–angiotensin system and calcium antagonists. One must keep in mind, however, that in multiple trials where diuretics were shown to worsen glycemic control, there was a mortality benefit as increasing doses of oral hypoglycemic medications were used. In short, while these agents can be avoided as initial agents for treatment of hypertension, many patients with heart or kidney disease, i.e., eGFR < 60 mL/min, will require diuretic therapy to control blood pressure.
Sulphur dioxide, particle and elemental emissions from Mount Etna, Italy during July 1987

Sulphur dioxide emission rates were measured at Mount Etna, Italy during July 1987 while the volcano was undergoing relatively ‘quiet’ activity. The SO2 flux averaged 930 ± 587 (1σ) Mg/d, excluding 19 July when the flux was 3200 ± 1730 (1σ) Mg/d. Rising magma and/or an influx of less degassed magma could explain the increased SO2 flux. The high SO2 flux did not correlate with changes in observed volcanic activity. This suggests that SO2 monitoring may be useful as an indicator of shallow magmatic activity, but not as a predictor of future eruptions of Mount Etna.
98% Nothing: Transparency by Degrees

The material and fabrication research of architectural applications for aerogel was the result of a collaborative seminar titled Immaterial/Ultramaterial that took place in spring 2000 through spring 2001, at the Harvard Design School. The seminar involved students in the exploration of existing and emerging material technologies, engaging them in the process of research, fabrication, and installation. The work culminated with an exhibit in March 2001 titled “Immaterial/Ultramaterial.”
dpy-13: A nematode collagen gene that affects body shape

Mutations in the Caenorhabditis elegans dpy-13 (dumpy) gene result in a short, chunky body shape. This gene was tagged by insertion of the Tc1 transposon, and the wild-type gene was cloned by chromosomal walking 11 kb from ama-1, a cloned gene encoding the large subunit of RNA polymerase II. Three transposon insertion sites in dpy-13 are located near the 5' end of a 1.2 kb transcribed region. The EMS-induced reference allele, dpy-13(e184), carries a small deletion near the middle of this gene. The DNA sequence reveals that dpy-13 is a member of the collagen multi-gene family, and it could encode a polypeptide of 302 amino acids. A 146 base pair sequence, encoding amino acids 56-103, is unique in the C. elegans genome, and it hybridizes to a 1 kb mRNA of moderate abundance.
Purification and properties of alliin lyase from the fungus Penicillium corymbiferum

Abstract Penicillium corymbiferum contains alliin lyase (cysteine sulfoxide lyase; alliin alkyl sulfenate-lyase, EC 4.4.1.4). This appears to be the first report of such an enzyme being isolated from a fungus. A 45-fold purification in two steps was effected by taking a 40–65% (NH4)2SO4 cut from a mycelial homogenate and chromatographing it, after dialysis, on Sephadex G-200. The resulting preparation required pyridoxal phosphate, had an apparent Km using alliin ( S- allyl- l -cysteine sulfoxide ) as a substrate of 5.8 mM, did not utilize S-alkylcysteines, and had a pH optimum of 6.5. These properties are similar to those of alliin lyase from garlic. It differed from this higher plant enzyme in that it had relatively little activity at pH 8.0, and was not stimulated by divalent ions or EDTA.
Raman intensity de‐enhancement in nontotally symmetric vibrations of copper(II) acetate by forbidden ligand‐field transitions

The Raman spectrum of the binuclear transition metal complex copper(II) acetate monohydrate is examined with various excitation wavelengths in the spectral range 17 500 to 25 000 cm−1. Nontotally symmetric vibrations are predominant in the Raman spectrum, and the depolarized Raman bands observed at 320 and 948 cm−1 exhibit marked intensity de-enhancement as the excitation wavelength approaches the dimer-associated, Laporte-forbidden ligand-field transition at 26 500 cm−1. The intensity de-enhancement observed for the nontotally symmetric vibrations of copper(II) acetate is in contrast to that observed for other centrosymmetric transition metal complexes studied thus far in which only the totally symmetric vibrations exhibit antiresonance effects. The excitation profiles are calculated for the Raman bands of copper(II) acetate using a model in which the scattering intensity arises from two terms Iα|Be+Bf|2, where Bf couples two charge-transfer states at 35 000 and 40 000 cm−1 respectively, and Be couples the ligand-field state to the charge-transfer state at 35 000 cm−1. The calculated profiles are in good agreement with those observed and predict that the system origin for the ligand-field transition is located near 21 000 cm−1.
Isolation of human DNA and its demonstration by electron microscopy.

MANY people have purified DNA by a variety of methods and measured its length by electron microscopy1–4. The DNA of bacteria and bacteriophage have been used frequently and salmon sperm and mammalian tissues have been used too.
Context-aware content adaptation in access point

Instead of traditional content adaptation at servers or clients, we propose context-aware content adaptation at the Access Point (AP). We show that because of the special characteristics of the AP such as: being the last node at the edge of the network, no power constraint, and powerful computing capabilities, it can be the best candidate for context-aware content adaptation in high dynamic wireless mobile networks. In fact, it can adapt content more accurately and faster in a high diverse and dynamic context. Content adaptation at the application and MAC layers of the AP is introduced in this paper.