cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Comorbid Dysthymia and Substance Disorder: Treatment History and Cost

Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the treatment history and cost of previous treatment among patients with comorbid substance-related disorder and dysthymia, as compared to patients with substance-related disorder only. Method: Retrospective data were obtained regarding past treatment. Treatment cost was calculated on the basis of the 1996 cost of various treatment modalities. The setting was alcohol-drug programs located within departments of psychiatry in two centers. A total of 642 patients were assessed, of whom 39 had substance-related disorder and dysthymia and 308 had substance-related disorder only (the remaining patients had other comorbid conditions). Data collection instruments included an interview-based questionnaire regarding previous psychiatric and substance abuse treatment. Current cost of treatment in various settings was assessed on the basis of a survey of facilities used by patients in this area. Results: Patients with substance-related disorder and dysthymia had received more substance-related disorder treatment in 18 of 20 measures. Patients with substance-related disorder and dysthymia used 4.7 times more substance-related disorder treatment dollars than patients with substance-related disorder only, although their demographic characteristics were similar. Past self-help activities and pharmacotherapy were remarkably similar for both groups. Although substance-related disorder treatment differed considerably between the two groups of patients, other types of psychiatric treatment (i.e., non-substance-related treatment) did not differ between the two groups. Conclusions: Patients with substance-related disorder and dysthymia are referred to (or seek) substance-related disorder treatment more often than patients with substance-related disorder only but are referred to (or seek) non-substance-related psychiatric treatment no more often than patients with substance-related disorder only. The cost of previous substance-related disorder treatment was several times higher for the patients with substance-related disorder and dysthymia.
Proteomic and bioinformatic characterization of the biogenesis and function of melanosomes.

Melanin, which is responsible for virtually all visible skin, hair, and eye pigmentation in humans, is synthesized, deposited, and distributed in subcellular organelles termed melanosomes. A comprehensive determination of the protein composition of this organelle has been obstructed by the melanin present. Here, we report a novel method of removing melanin that includes in-solution digestion and immobilized metal affinity chromatography (IMAC). Together with in-gel digestion, this method has allowed us to characterize melanosome proteomes at various developmental stages by tandem mass spectrometry. Comparative profiling and functional characterization of the melanosome proteomes identified 1500 proteins in melanosomes of all stages, with 600 in any given stage. These proteins include 16 homologous to mouse coat color genes and many associated with human pigmentary diseases. Approximately 100 proteins shared by melanosomes from pigmented and nonpigmented melanocytes define the essential melanosome proteome. Proteins validated by confirming their intracellular localization include PEDF (pigment-epithelium derived factor) and SLC24A5 (sodium/potassium/calcium exchanger 5, NCKX5). The sharing of proteins between melanosomes and other lysosome-related organelles suggests a common evolutionary origin. This work represents a model for the study of the biogenesis of lysosome-related organelles.
Autism familiarity and knowledge among pharmacy students

Abstract Objectives Autism is a growing public health burden as its prevalence and medical costs continue to rise, making knowledge of, and familiarity with, autism among current and future healthcare professionals crucial. While studies have examined autism familiarity and knowledge among other healthcare professionals including medical students, such studies are yet to be conducted among pharmacy students. The purpose of this study was to assess the familiarity and knowledge of autism among pharmacy students. Methods A cross-sectional, descriptive design was employed with a self-administered, paper-based survey distributed to professional pharmacy students in a southeastern university school of pharmacy. The survey was designed to assess students' familiarity with and knowledge of autism, their educational background on autism, and their demographic characteristics. Results Completed surveys were received from 196 (60.1%) pharmacy students. Students reported themselves to be less than somewhat familiar with autism (2.48 ± 0.76). Fourth-year professional students reported the highest familiarity with autism. Most students reported not having received autism instruction in their curricula but agreed that autism should be covered in their curricula. Conclusions Given pharmacy students' lack of familiarity with autism and willingness to learn about autism in pharmacy school, pharmacy educators are encouraged to include autism in their curricula.
Linking Obesity Prevention and Mental Health Promotion to Address Health Disparities

Considerable racial health disparities exist, especially in mental health and obesity. However, few approaches exist to address obesity and mental health simultaneously in minority groups. An intervention to address mental health in a low-income, minority group of urban mothers was designed using results from a needs assessment. Participating women were asked to rank their top health concerns and personal goals. Along with mental health concerns and basic needs, the majority of mothers desired assistance with improving their physical well-being. These results are surprising, but lend credence to creating interventions that aim to address both mental health and obesity concerns simultaneously.
Adaptive-Mode Peak-to-Average Power Ratio Reduction Algorithm for OFDM-Based Cognitive Radio

In this paper, we present a novel low complexity algorithm for reducing the peak-to-average power ratio (PAPR) occurring in OFDM-based cognitive radios. Although several PAPR reduction algorithms exist in the literature, they are often only effective for specific scenarios. Our proposed algorithm exploits the agility of cognitive radio technology to rapidly choose and employ the appropriate PAPR reduction approach from a set of approaches to achieve a large decrease in PAPR, given the current operating conditions. The results show that for a wide range of operating conditions, the proposed algorithm achieves a large decrease in PAPR, unlikely the PAPR results when only a single reduction approach is employed across the same wide range.
Modeling of multilayered power distribution planes using transmission matrix method

This paper presents a method for analyzing multilayered rectangular and irregular shaped power distribution planes in the frequency and time domain. The analysis includes the effect of vias on the power distribution network. The planes are modeled using a two dimensional array of distributed RLCG circuit elements. Planes are connected in parallel using vias, which are modeled as self and mutual inductors. For the computation of the power distribution impedances at specific points in the network, a multiinput and multioutput transmission matrix method has been used. This is much faster than Spice and requires smaller memory. Using the transmission matrix method, via effects and the effects of multiple rectangular power/ground plane pairs without and with decoupling capacitors have been analyzed for realistic structures.
Passive microwave relative humidity retrievals using feedforward neural networks

A technique for retrieving atmospheric humidity profiles using passive microwave spectral observations from satellite and multilayer feedforward neural networks (MFNN) is introduced. Relative humidity retrievals on a global scale from simulated radiances at fifteen frequencies between 23.8 and 183.3 GHz yielded rms errors in relative humidity of 6-14% over ocean and 6-15% over land at pressure levels ranging from 131 mbar to 1013 mbar. Comparison with a combined statistical and physical iterative retrieval scheme shows that superior retrievals can be obtained at a lower computational cost using MFNN.
Application of AI tools in fault diagnosis of electrical machines and drives-an overview

Condition monitoring leading to fault diagnosis and prediction of electrical machines and drives has recently become of importance. The topic has attracted researchers to work in during the past few years because of its great influence on the operational continuation of many industrial processes. Correct diagnosis and early detection of incipient faults result in fast unscheduled maintenance and short down time for the machine under consideration. It also avoids harmful, sometimes devastative, consequences and helps reduce financial loss. Reduction of the human experts involvement in the diagnosis process has gradually taken place upon the recent developments in the modern artificial intelligence (AI) tools. Artificial neural networks (ANNs), fuzzy and adaptive fuzzy systems, and expert systems are good candidates for the automation of the diagnostic procedures. This present work surveys the principles and criteria of the diagnosis process. It introduces the current research achievements to apply AI techniques in the diagnostic systems of electrical machines and drives.
An Illusionary or Elusive Relationship? The Arab-Israel Conflict and Repression in the Middle East

This article develops an argument for the anticipated relationship between international conflict and repression within the Middle East. It tests the argument employing a model in which the dependent variable is annual repression levels in a country (based on Amnesty International reports) and two key independent variables are net cooperation (cooperation minus conflict) with and from Israel and between Israel and the Palestinians (based on data drawn from the Kansas Event Data System, or KEDS). Specifically, it tests cross-sectional time-series ordered probit models on 17 countries in three subregional analyses in the 1980–2000 period to determine whether regional repression stems in part from the conflict with Israel. It concludes that the Arab-Israel conflict has strong positive effects on repression throughout much of the Middle East.
A dual-layer TOF-DOI detector block for whole-body PET

We developed a dual-layer high-resolution detector block for whole-body positron-emission tomography systems. The top layer is a 13×13 array of lutetium yttrium orthosilicate (LYSO) crystals (2.85×2.85×10mm3) and the bottom layer a 13×13 array of lutetium gadolinium oxyorthosilicate (LGSO) crystals (2.85×2.85×10mm3). The LGSO layer was coupled to four Hamamatsu R11194HA photomultiplier tubes (PMTs) by a photomultiplier quadrant×sharing configuration. This block has both time-of-flight and depth-of-interaction functions. Using a Na-22 position source, the performance of this block was evaluated by coinciding with a reference detector which consisted of a 4×4×10mm3 LYSO crystal coupled to a Hamamatsu R9779 PMT. A total of 4.7% of the counts were mixed among the two layers. The LYSO layer had 11.4% energy resolution and 329ps coincidence time resolution. The LGSO layer had 14.8% energy resolution and 356ps coincidence time resolution. Index Termspositron emission tomography (PET), time of flight (TOF), depth of interaction (DOI), lutetium yttrium orthosilicate (LYSO), lutetium gadolinium oxyorthosilicate (LGSO), photomultiplier quadrant sharing (PQS)
Regulatory Uncertainty, Corporate Expectations, and the Postponement of Investment: The Case of Electricity Market Deregulation

We examine whether regulatory uncertainty encourages firms to delay capital investment decisions. The case of electricity market deregulation in the U.S is unique because the period of regulatory uncertainty is long-lived and there are data available on planned future investments. These previously unused expectational data provide unique insight into the broader effects of regulatory uncertainty. Relying on a real options modeling perspective, we hypothesize that industry participants reduced their investments in electric power-generating assets dramatically in the 1990s in response to increased regulatory uncertainty and then, just as dramatically, increased investment beginning in 2000 due to the resolution of some regulatory uncertainty. We provide empirical evidence that regulatory uncertainty is significantly and strongly negatively related to planned utility investments. This negative effect is 44% stronger for so-called green technologies.
Systematics of the Genus Blarina in Tennessee and Adjacent Areas

Morphometric analyses were conducted on shrews of the genus Blarina in Tennessee and adjacent areas. Results indicate the presence of two distinct taxa. A large form, Blarina brevicauda , occurs in the Appalachian Mountains eastward to middle Tennessee. Within this group, two size forms were found which differ only in the averages of the characters. A smaller form, B. carolinensis , occupies western Tennessee and adjacent western and southern states. In Tennessee, the zone of contact between the two taxa appears to be an area slightly east of the Tennessee River. Generally, B. brevicauda shows an increase in size from the southwestern to the northeastern part of its range within Tennessee; overall size is correlated with temperature, longitude, and altitude. B. carolinensis appears to be relatively uniform over much of its range, with a slight increase in size from the west to the east and north. Mean July temperature (temperature extremes) has the highest correlation with overall size.
An Autoradiographic Search for the Site of Fertilization in Spider Mites.

The fate of spermatozoa after mating has not been previously investigated in tetranychid mites. Histological evidence indicates that the spermatheca connects with the outside only. Autoradiography was employed in an attempt to trace the passage of spermatozoa from the spermatheca to the egg. Labeled spermatozoa were obtained by rearing males on bean seedlings growing in 8H-thymidine solution. Heavy labeling was found in those mites feeding on the radioactive leaves, anri radioactivity was found to be passed on transovarialy. By mating radioactive males to untreated females and preparing autoradiographs of these females at varying intervals after mating, the seminal material was traced. Labeled seminal material was located in the spermatheca of females recently mated to radioactive mates. General body labeling occurred several hours after copulation. Eggs in these mated females showed patterns of labeling not found in 8H-fed or untreated females. It is hypothesized that the spermatozoa leave the spermatheca, and travel through the haemolymph to the ovary where eggs are fertilized precociously.
The initial effects of an upper extremity neural mobilization technique on muscle fatigue and pressure pain threshold of healthy adults: a randomized control trial

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of an upper extremity neural mobilization technique on delayed onset muscle soreness. [Subjects] Forty-five healthy subjects were randomly assigned to two groups: a nerve mobilization group (experimental) and a control group. [Methods] The subjects of the experimental group were administered a median nerve mobilization technique and ultrasound for the biceps brachii muscle. The subjects in the control group were only administered ultrasound for the biceps brachii muscle. Muscle fatigue and the pressure pain threshold were assessed before and after the intervention. [Results] The experimental group showed significant improvements in all variables, compared to pre-intervention. Furthermore, the control group showed significant improvements in the pressure pain threshold, compared to pre-intervention. Significant differences in the post-intervention gains in muscle fatigue and pressure pain threshold were found between the experimental group and the control group. [Conclusion] Application of the upper extremity neural mobilization technique is considered to have a positive effect on recovery from delayed onset muscle soreness.
Status Epilepticus in Childhood-Onset Epilepsy

The occurrence of status epilepticus, risk factors, and impact on prognosis were determined in a population-based cohort of 150 children (under 16 years old) with new onset epilepsy between 1961 and 1964 and followed prospectively until 1997 at Turku University Hospital, Finland.
Application of Lightning Location and Monitoring System in Prevention of Lightning Faults of Transmission Line

Based on the application of lightning location and monitoring system in North China Power Grid,the action of this system in prevention of lightning faults of transmission lines is presented;the principal causes of line trip and fault positions are clarified and the law of lightning activity is found out;by means of detailed analysis on concrete transmission lines,in the prevention of lightning faults special attentions are paid to the transmission lines and line sections,where lightning strike often occurs,and these lines and sections are determined.Thus,optimal configuration of lightning protection devices in these key regions can decrease lightning strike-caused trip-out rate of transmission lines and improve security and stability of power grid.
Eisenmenger ventricular septal defect in a Humboldt penguin (Spheniscus humboldti).

The Eisenmenger ventricular septal defect is an uncommon type of ventricular septal defect characterised in humans by a traditionally perimembranous ventricular septal defect, anterior deviation (cranioventral deviation in small animal patients) of the muscular outlet septum causing malalignment relative to the remainder of the muscular septum, and overriding of the aortic valve. This anomaly is reported infrequently in human patients and was identified in a 45-day-old Humboldt Penguin, Spheniscus humboldti, with signs of poor growth and a cardiac murmur. This case report describes the findings in this penguin and summarises the anatomy and classification of this cardiac anomaly. To the authors' knowledge this is the first report of an Eisenmenger ventricular septal defect in a veterinary patient.
Interpretable Dynamic Treatment Regimes.

AbstractPrecision medicine is currently a topic of great interest in clinical and intervention science. A key component of precision medicine is that it is evidence-based, i.e., data-driven, and consequently there has been tremendous interest in estimation of precision medicine strategies using observational or randomized study data. One way to formalize precision medicine is through a treatment regime, which is a sequence of decision rules, one per stage of clinical intervention, that map up-to-date patient information to a recommended treatment. An optimal treatment regime is defined as maximizing the mean of some cumulative clinical outcome if applied to a population of interest. It is well-known that even under simple generative models an optimal treatment regime can be a highly nonlinear function of patient information. Consequently, a focal point of recent methodological research has been the development of flexible models for estimating optimal treatment regimes. However, in many settings, estimati...
Angiotensin and thromboxane in genetically hypertensive rats: Renal blood flow and receptor studies

The objective of this study was to test whether angiotensin II (ANG II) and thromboxane A2 (TxA2) contribute to the increased renal vascular reactivity observed in genetic hypertension. Under control conditions, ANG II reduced renal blood flow 35% more in spontaneously hypertensive (SHR) than in Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats. This strain difference was abolished by inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis with indomethacin and thus may be due to a deficiency in the action of endogenous vasodilator prostaglandins. The stable TxA2-receptor agonist U 46619 produced equal reductions of renal blood flow in SHR and WKY under control conditions. However, after indomethacin, the agonist-induced vasoconstriction was 70% more in SHR than in WKY, suggesting that SHR kidneys have an increased vascular reactivity to TxA2, which is unmasked when indomethacin reduces elevated levels of endogenous TxA2. Radiolabeled ligand binding studies for ANG II and TxA2 were undertaken in glomeruli isolated from WKY and SHR at 6 and 12 wk of age. Scatchard analysis revealed a single high-affinity receptor site for ANG [dissociation constant (Kd) = 1.2 nM], which was similar in both strains and ages of rats. All groups also showed a single high-affinity TxA2 receptor site (Kd = 3.5 nM). No differences were observed in the ANG II receptor number between age-matched rats, although the density increased with age. The density of TxA2 receptors was threefold higher in young SHR and nearly twofold higher in 12-wk-old SHR than in age-matched WKY controls. These findings indicate that the exaggerated renal vascular reactivity of SHR to ANG II and TxA2 may be mediated by a shift in the balance between endogenous vasoactive prostanoids and increased density of renal TxA2 receptors.
Black and Blue: Exploring Racial Bias and Law Enforcement in the Killings of Unarmed Black Male Civilians

In late 2014, a series of highly publicized police killings of unarmed Black male civilians in the United States prompted large-scale social turmoil. In the current review, we dissect the psychological antecedents of these killings and explain how the nature of police work may attract officers with distinct characteristics that may make them especially well-primed for negative interactions with Black male civilians. We use media reports to contextualize the precipitating events of the social unrest as we ground our explanations in theory and empirical research from social psychology and industrial and organizational (I/O) psychology. To isolate some of the key mechanisms at play, we disentangle racial bias (e.g., stereotyping processes) from common characteristics of law enforcement agents (e.g., social dominance orientation), while also addressing the interaction between racial bias and policing. By separating the moving parts of the phenomenon, we provide a more fine-grained analysis of the factors that may have contributed to the killings. In doing so, we endeavor to more effectively identify and develop solutions to eradicate excessive use of force during interactions between "Black" (unarmed Black male civilians) and "Blue" (law enforcement).
Edge-to-Edge Repair with MitraClip for Functional Mitral Regurgitation

Functional mitral regurgitation (FMR) presents a challenge in surgical therapy, with continuing debates as to the benefits of repair versus replacement. Similarly, the appropriate application of MitraClip for FMR remains under evaluation. Several studies have documented that many high-risk patients with FMR do benefit from MitraClip placement with durable reduction in MR and symptomatic relief. Data from European registries and results of the ongoing COAPT trial in US patients may better inform which FMR patients are most likely to benefit from MitraClip placement.
The Function Of Transcription Elongation In Hematopoietic Stem Cell Development

The specification of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) in vertebrate embryos is tightly regulated by RNA polymerase II (Pol II)-mediated transcription, which proceeds through multiple steps including initiation/activation, elongation and termination. Increasing evidences in recent years have demonstrated that transcriptionally engaged Pol II often pauses shortly after initiation by pausing factors DSIF and NELF, and its release requires positive elongation factors such as p-TEFb. Little is known about how pausing-to-elongation switch contribute to cell fate determination. In a zebrafish spt5 mutant, we detected a dramatic loss of runx1+ HSCs in the AGM region in 36-hour embryos. Spt5 is an essential subunit of DSIF, which pauses Pol II in early elongation stage but stimulates Pol II elongation upon phosphorylated by p-TEFb. The zebrafish mutant carries a single amino acid change in the Spt5 protein that disrupts the pausing function but leaves the stimulatory function intact, suggesting a requirement of Pol II pausing in HSC formation. Similarly, knocking down the other pausing factor NELF by morpholinos also greatly reduced the number of runx1+ HSCs in zebrafish embryos. This loss of HSCs is not caused by general developmental defects, as markers for vessels and aorta endothelium remain normal in mutants. We further demonstrated that reducing Pol II elongation by either p-TEFb inhibitors or morpholino knockdown of CDK9, the essential subunit of p-TEFb, could rescue the HSC defect in spt5 mutants. The rescue by cdk9 morpholino is dose-dependent. Low-dose morpholino that presumably caused partial knockdown of CDK9 was able to rescue spt5 mutants, whereas high-dose morpholino completely wiped out HSCs in both wild type and mutant embryos. In conclusion, our data suggested that HSC formation during embryonic development requires a balanced transcription that is regulated by both negative and positive elongation factors. Such mechanisms may also be employed in other tissues to regulate cell fate determination. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
The Effects of Alcohol and Cigarette Consumption on Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) in Rural African Americans

Objective: Rurally situated African Americans suffer from stress and drug-related health disparities. Unfortunately, research on potential mechanisms that underlie this public health problem have r...
Acute Lymphocytic Myocarditis With Anti-PD-1 Antibody Nivolumab.

In late December 2015, a 69-year-old woman presented with general malaise and palpitation lasting a few days. She had choroidal malignant melanoma with liver and bone metastases and had undergone 3 cycles of anticancer treatment with an anti-PD-1 (programmed cell death protein 1) antibody nivolumab (2 mg/kg of body weight every 3 weeks) from October 2015 to early December 2015. Two weeks had elapsed since the last treatment with nivolumab. On physical examination, blood pressure was 121/83 mm Hg and heart rate 110 beats per minute. ECG showed ST-segment elevation in leads II, III, and aVF. A bedside rapid assay for cardiac troponin T was positive, and the concentrations of creatine kinase and creatine kinase MB-isozyme were increased to be 728 IU/L and 48.7 U/L, respectively. Echocardiography …
Balancing Security and Performance for Agility in Dynamic Threat Environments

In cyber security, achieving the desired balance between system security and system performance in dynamic threat environments is a long-standing open challenge for cyber defenders. Typically an increase in system security comes at the price of decreased system performance, and vice versa, easily resulting in systems that are misaligned to operator specified requirements for system security and performance as the threat environment evolves. We develop an online, reinforcement learning based methodology to automatically discover and maintain desired operating postures in security-performance space even as the threat environment changes. We demonstrate the utility of our approach and discover parameters enabling an agile response to a dynamic adversary in a simulated security game involving prototype cyber moving target defenses.
Integrated System Simulation applied to Turbocharged Diesel Engines

A simulation procedure focused on the analysis of the turbocharger control system in current and future production diesel engines has been developed by GM Powertrain. This tool can replace some test bench tests with computer simulation in the development process and in component tolerance design.
UWB antenna characterization for circuit design

The equivalent antenna length concept, which is obtained from the measured S-parameters of a 2-antenna network, is used to characterize the frequency-dependent nature of ultra-wideband (UWB) antennas. Analytical expressions are derived for the voltage waveform at the output of a receive antenna and the equivalent isotropically radiated power (EIRP) from a transmit antenna. In addition, a procedure is outlined to model UWB antennas for circuit design purposes without additional knowledge of the antenna physics.
Use of photoacoustic excitation and laser vibrometry to remotely detect trace explosives.

In this paper, we examine a laser-based approach to remotely initiate, measure, and differentiate acoustic and vibrational emissions from trace quantities of explosive materials against their environment. Using a pulsed ultraviolet laser (266 nm), we induce a significant (>100 Pa) photoacoustic response from small quantities of military-grade explosives. The photoacoustic signal, with frequencies predominantly between 100 and 500 kHz, is detected remotely via a wideband laser Doppler vibrometer. This two-laser system can be used to rapidly detect and discriminate explosives from ordinary background materials, which have significantly weaker photoacoustic response. A 100 ng/cm2 limit of detection is estimated. Photoablation is proposed as the dominant mechanism for the large photoacoustic signals generated by explosives.
Improving the language ability of deaf signing children through an interactive American sign language-based video game

We present the design of an interactive computer game-based intervention, CopyCat, in which deaf children use sign language to direct the actions of a character in the game. We conducted a study to quantify the game's impact on expressive language development using twelve participants from a local school for the deaf. Learners in the experimental group improved significantly in their receptive, expressive, and sentence repetition abilities as opposed to those in the control group.
Health Maintenance Deficits in a Fully Insured Population of Adolescents With Chronic Medical Conditions.

The current national monitoring of routine wellness care and vaccine uptake does not provide data on health maintenance among pediatric populations with chronic medical conditions. In this case-control study that analyzes wellness visits and vaccine uptake among adolescents, ages 16 to 18 years, we identified 938 without (controls) and 74 with (cases) 1 of 12 specific chronic medical conditions. The PPSV23 (23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine) is recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices for these 12 conditions and served as a measure of uptake for medically indicated vaccines. Our controls were twice as likely as cases to have a documented well visit in the past year, and there was a significantly higher proportion of controls than cases vaccinated with Tdap (tetanus toxoid, reduced diphtheria toxoid, acellular pertussis), MCV-4 (quadrivalent meningococcal conjugate), and HPV (human papillomavirus), all P < .05. More than 60% of cases failed to receive PPSV23. Adolescents ...
ContextZoom: A Single-Handed Partial Zooming Technique for Touch-Screen Mobile Devices

ABSTRACTDespite its ubiquitous use, the pinch zooming technique is not effective for single-handed interaction with touch-screen mobile devices. A novel technique for single-handed zooming on touch-screen mobile devices, ContextZoom, is proposed in this paper. It allows users to specify any location on a device screen as the zooming center and ensures that this intended zooming center remains at the original location after zooming. ContextZoom works as an add-on feature for existing zooming techniques by supporting zooming in/out a portion of a viewport and provides a quick switch between partial and whole viewports, which can be operated with a single hand only. An empirical evaluation of ContextZoom through a controlled laboratory experiment was conducted to compare participants’ performance and perceptions while using the Google Maps’ single-handed (GMS) zooming technique and a button-based (BB) zooming technique with and without ContextZoom. Results show that equipped with ContextZoom, users’ performa...
Thalamic dopaminergic neurons projects to the paraventricular nucleus-rostral ventrolateral medulla/C1 neural circuit.

Paraventricular nuclei (PVN) projections to the rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM)/C1 catecholaminergic neuron group constitute the pre-autonomic sympathetic center involved in the neural control of systemic cardiovascular function. However, the role of extra-hypothalamic and thalamic dopaminergic (DA) inputs in this circuit remains underexplored. Using retrograde neuroanatomical tracing and high contrast confocal imaging methods, we investigated the projections and morphology of the discrete thalamic DA neuron groups in the dorsal hypothalamic area and their contribution to the PVN-RVLM neural circuit. We found that DA neuron subgroups in the Zona Incerta (Zi; 60%) and Reuniens thalamic nuclei (Re; 40%) were labeled comparably to the PVN (85%) after a retrograde tracer was injected into the RVLM/C1 (P < 0.01 mean ± SEM). The Re/Zi DA neuron subgroups were characterized by angulated cell bodies, superiomedial and inferiomedial projections reaching the contralateral Re/Zi and ipsilateral PVN DA neurons respectively. Ultimately, we deduced that the DA projections of the Re/Zi to the PVN contribute to the PVN-RVLM/C1 neural circuit. As a result of these connections, the Re/Zi DA neuron groups may regulate preautonomic sympathetic events associated with the PVN-RVLM pathway. Anat Rec, 300:1307-1314, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A novel NFIA-NFκB feed-forward loop contributes to glioblastoma cell survival.

Background The nuclear factor I-A (NFIA) transcription factor promotes glioma growth and inhibits apoptosis in glioblastoma (GBM) cells. Here we report that the NFIA pro-survival effect in GBM is mediated in part via a novel NFIA-nuclear factor-kappaB (NFκB) p65 feed-forward loop. Methods We examined effects of gain- and loss-of-function manipulations of NFIA and NFκB p65 on each other's transcription, cell growth, apoptosis and sensitivity to chemotherapy in patient-derived GBM cells and established GBM cell lines. Results NFIA enhanced apoptosis evasion by activating NFκB p65 and its downstream anti-apoptotic factors tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 1 (TRAF1) and cellular inhibitor of apoptosis proteins (cIAPs). Induction of NFκB by NFIA was required to protect cells from apoptosis, and inhibition of NFκB effectively reversed the NFIA anti-apoptotic effect. Conversely, NFIA knockdown decreased expression of NFκB and anti-apoptotic genes TRAF1 and cIAPs, and increased baseline apoptosis. NFIA positively regulated NFκB transcription and NFκB protein level. Interestingly, NFκB also activated the NFIA promoter and increased NFIA level, and knockdown of NFIA was sufficient to attenuate the NFκB pro-survival effect, suggesting a reciprocal regulation between NFIA and NFκB in governing GBM cell survival. Supporting this, NFIA and NFκB expression levels were highly correlated in human GBM and patient-derived GBM cells. Conclusions These data define a previously unknown NFIA-NFκB feed-forward regulation that may contribute to GBM cell survival.
Equity Versus Fair Market Value Method for the Carrying Value of Investments in Common Stock: A Research Note

This study examines whether either the Equity or the Fair Market Value method of accounting for investments produces higher values for the balance sheet and income statement. We gathered data on 517 companies listed in the Value Line Investment Survey (i.e., 30.6% of the approximately 1,690 listed companies) and conducted an initial analysis of the data. This research examined whether firms might choose one method rather than the other merely to present a better income statement rather than for economic reasons. The differences apparent between the two methods suggest that the equity method does not anticipate future earnings whereas the Fair Market Value Method consistently provides a higher estimate of value (i.e. less conservative) in up markets. Consequently, the data indicate the equity method is a more conservative of the two methods.
Assessment of Atrioventricular Nodal Physiology in the Mouse

Transgenic mice are increasingly being utilized for understanding cardiac electrophysiologic abnormalities. However, little is known about the normal atrioventricular nodal and infraHisian physiology in the mouse because of the prior inability to record a His-bundle deflection. We present the first comprehensive examination of the murine atrioventricular nodal and His-Purkinje systems employing His-bundle recordings. Normal, healthy, male C57BL/6J mice (n = 48) underwent an in vivo electrophysiology study using a 2 F octapolar electrode catheter. Effective refractory periods were determined during premature atrial and ventricular stimulation. The PR interval measured 44 ± 6 ms with a mean sinus cycle length of 185 ± 42 ms. Baseline AH intervals were 36 ± 5 ms and HV intervals were 10 ± 2 ms. At a pacing cycle length of 140 ms the atrioventricular nodal effective refractory period (AVNERP) and atrial effective refractory period (AERP) were 86 ± 19 ms and 57 ± 17 ms, respectively. The mean AV Wenckebach and 2:1 paced cycle length were 103 ± 14 ms and 84 ± 13 ms, respectively. Premature atrial stimulation curves were asymptotic without discontinuity. A subset of nine mice was studied after administration of isoproterenol. The sinus cycle length, AVNERP and AERP decreased significantly from baseline measurements. This method establishes a practical and feasible technique to record in vivo His-bundle electrograms in the mouse to assess atrioventricular nodal and infraHisian physiology. Use of this model will allow for the examination of abnormalities of atrioventricular nodal and infraHisian conduction in transgenic murine models.
The Challenges in the Transition from Fossil Fuel to Renewable Energy

As is currently widely discussed, the implementation of climate stability requires a change in energy technologies. There is active ongoing research undertaken on the future of fossil fuel technology, to produce energy, as well as on alternative technologies, such as renewable energy, to provide energy for the future. Fossil fuel has strong externality effects, extensive CO2 emissions, which are largely responsible for triggering global warming in the long run. Yet, those externalities are not incorporated into the cost and price of fossil fuel when currently supplied. Renewable energy exhibits no externality when produced and is of infinite supply; yet, it can only be harvested with some costs. Many countries have already undertaken projects to phase out fossil fuel and to phase in renewable energy. Our paper studies the cost and price trends of fossil versus renewable energy and the effects of those industries’ performance on stock markets. We sketch a growth model that explains the dynamics of how fossil fuel is phased out and renewables are phased in. Finally, we elaborate on how this can be supported by industrial policies, and discuss what employment effects this transition from fossil fuel to renewable energy may have.
A smartphone “app”-delivered randomized factorial trial targeting physical activity in adults

Rapid technological development has challenged researchers developing mobile moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) interventions. This 12-week randomized factorial intervention aimed to determine the individual and combined impact of a self-monitoring smartphone-app (tracking, feedback, education) and two theory-based modules (goal-setting, points-based feedback) on MVPA, key psychosocial outcomes, and application usage. Adults (N = 116; M age = 41.38 ± 7.57) received (1) a basic self-monitoring app, (2) the basic app plus goal setting, (3) the basic app plus points-based feedback, or (4) the basic app plus both modules. All individuals increased MVPA by more than 11 daily minutes. Those with points-based feedback demonstrated still higher levels of MVPA and more favorable psychosocial and app usage outcomes across the intervention. Those with access to in-app goal setting had higher levels of app usage relative to those without the component. It is imperative that effective digital intervention “ingredients” are identified, and these findings provide early evidence to this effect. Trial Registration clinicaltrials.gov identifier NCT02592590.
Pursuit Drills for inside Linemen in Football

(1956). Pursuit Drills for inside Linemen in Football. Journal of Health, Physical Education, Recreation: Vol. 27, No. 7, pp. 42-56.
Does partisan affiliation impact the distribution of spending? Evidence from state governments’ expenditures on education

Abstract How and why does partisan affiliation impact policy? Using a regression discontinuity strategy and focusing on state education spending, we find that Democratic and Republican governors allocate spending differently. In particular, school districts with higher shares of minority students receive larger state transfers than other districts under Democratic governors. A similar pattern occurs in state transfers to higher education institutions. This is true regardless of whether the governor is eligible for reelection; we find no evidence that Democrat governors are simply sending money to areas with a larger share of Democrats. These results suggest that the observed policy divergence is driven by differences in preferences of elected candidates.
THE UNCERTAIN IMPACT OF ANGLO/LATINO CONTACT ON ANGLOS’ IMMIGRATION POLICY VIEWS: Awareness of Latinos’ Problems Is the Key

This project draws on psychological and sociological social psychology to investigate immigration policy opinions among native-born non-Hispanic Whites. Using data from a suburban Chicago-area county that has seen substantial growth in the Latino immigrant population, we examine Anglos’ opinions on three dimensions of immigration policy: preferred immigration rate, resistance to immigration, and assistance for immigrants. Our central hypothesis is that liberalizing effects of Anglo/Latino interpersonal contact are conditioned on Anglos’ recognition of hardships and barriers faced by Latinos. Five of the six interaction effects we estimated were highly significant: Personal contact with Latinos does promote more positive, progressive immigration policy opinions, but only among some Anglos—those who were acquainted with immigrants who had run afoul of immigration law or believed there is substantial local discrimination against Latinos. The results are reminiscent of James Kluegel’s (1985) analysis of White Americans’ views about affirmative action: “If there isn’t a problem, you don’t need a solution.” Affirmation of local anti-Latino discrimination was the stronger moderator of contact effects and also showed main effects on immigration policy opinion stronger than the effects of interpersonal contact. Denial of anti-Latino discrimination may be a means used by Anglos to defend their group position.
Characterization and Determination of CO2-Reservoir Oil Miscibility

For assisting in making an informed decision about the selection of an experimental or a non-experimental approach to characterize and determine CO2-reservoir oil miscibility in terms of the MMP, a quick review of the needs to determine the MMP and various factors including the technical and economic factors that might have a great influence on such decision are presented and discussed in detail.
On lattice polyhedra III: Blockers and anti-blockers of lattice clutters

We consider two classes (called upper and lower) of clutters satisfying postulates we have previously encountered in defining lattice polyhedra, and prove that lower clutters are maximal anti-chains in a partially ordered set, upper clutters are cuts of a family of paths closed with respect to switching.
The Effect of Nonoperative Management of Chronic Anal Fissure and Hemorrhoid Disease on Bowel Function Patient-Reported Outcomes.

BACKGROUND Nonoperative management has been reported to decrease symptoms from common anorectal conditions such as chronic anal fissures and hemorrhoids. The effects of these interventions on bowel function are unknown. OBJECTIVE This study aims to perform a prospective evaluation of patient-reported outcomes of bowel function on nonoperative management for chronic anal fissures and hemorrhoid disease. DESIGN This is a prospective, observational study. SETTINGS Patient-reported outcome measures were collected from the clinical practice of the division of colon and rectal surgery at a tertiary colon and rectal surgery referral center. INTERVENTION All patients received standardized dietary counseling including fiber supplementation as well as toileting strategies. Those with chronic anal fissures were also prescribed topical calcium channel blockers. The Colorectal Functional Outcome questionnaire was administered at baseline and at first follow-up visit. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcomes measured were the mean change in patient-reported bowel function scores after nonoperative management for each disease and in aggregate. RESULTS A cohort of 64 patients was included, 37 patients (58%) with chronic anal fissure and 27 patients with hemorrhoid disease. Incontinence, social impact, stool-related aspects, and the global score were observed to have statistically significant improvement in the aggregate group. When analyzed by diagnosis, hemorrhoid disease demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in incontinence and stool-related aspects, whereas chronic anal fissure was associated with a statistically significant change in social impact, stool-related aspects, and the global score. LIMITATIONS This study was limited by the small cohort size and unclear patient adherence to medical management. CONCLUSIONS Nonoperative management of chronic anal fissures and hemorrhoid disease is associated with significant improvement in patient-reported outcome scores in several domains, suggesting that dietary counseling and medical therapy should be the first-line outpatient therapy for these diseases. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A726.
Arthroplasty of the knee in rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. A follow-up study after implantation of the McKeever and MacIntosh prostheses.

The literature related to arthroplasty of the knee is reviewed and the surgical technique and postoperative management for knee arthroplasty using the McKeever and MacIntosh prostheses are described. The results after follow-ups ranging from one to nine years in eighty-two patients with rheumatoid arthritis and seventeen patients with osteoarthritis are presented using a method of evaluation based on demerits assigned for pain, limitation of motion, deformity, instability, quadriceps weakness, and need for support. Using the described method of evaluation, fifty-six of the ninety-nine rheumatoid knees and seventeen of the nineteen osteoarthritic knees which could be evaluated, had good or excellent results. From these findings it is concluded that knee arthroplasty of the type described when performed in properly selected patients is an effective method to relieve pain and restore function.