cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Quantitative autistic traits are transmitted intergenerationally and increase risk for autism spectrum disorders

ABSTRACT FROM : Lyall K, Constantino JN, Weisskopf MG, et al . Parental social responsiveness and risk of autism spectrum disorder in offspring. JAMA Psychiatry 2014;71:936–42. The heritability of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) has previously been suggested by studies on twin and other sibling populations.1 ,2 However, ASD may manifest subclinically in some individuals complicating the study of genetic risk factors. The ability to accurately quantify subclinical ASD, or quantitative autistic traits (QAT), is thus critical to the study of ASD heritability. Several previous studies have suggested that QAT are also heritable.3 ,4 This study provides further evidence of the intergenerational transmission of QAT. Participants were solicited from a longitudinal cohort of 116 430 nurses who are part of the Nurses’ Health Study II (NHS II). Cases were index children with …
Research on CAPP System based on Case Reasoning

This paper described a mentality of CAPP system by using case based reasoning technology. And analyzed its work process: establish case storehouse,retrieve case,infer case and correct case,preserve case .
Induction of hematopoietic commitment and erythromyeloid differentiation in embryonal stem cells constitutively expressing c-myb

To provide insight into the mechanisms by which c-myb regulates hematopoiesis, we analyzed the expression of markers for multiple hematopoietic lineages in differentiating parental embryonic stem (ES) cells and in ES cells transfected with c-myb or with a mutant c-myb deficient in DNA binding and assessed the ability of these cells to undergo hematopoietic commitment and colony formation. Undifferentiated ES cells transfected with intact c-myb, but not cells transfected with mutant c-myb, expressed CD34, c-kit, GATA1, and flt3 mRNA as well as surface CD34, c-kit, and flt3 product. In contrast, the kinetics of GATA-2 mRNA expression was identical in parental and Myb-transfected ES cells. Transient expression assays suggested transactivation of gene expression dependent on interaction with Myb binding sites in the CD34 and GATA1 5' flanking regions. Undifferentiated parental and c-myb mutant-transfected ES cells were not clonogenic, whereas c-myb transfectants formed erythromyeloid colonies in methylcellulose cultures in the absence of added hematopoietic growth factors and, at higher frequency, in the presence of kit and flt-3 ligands. Colony formation was suppressed by treatment with antisense oligodeoxynucleotides specifically downregulating c-kit and flt-3 expression. These findings indicate that c-myb regulates hematopoietic commitment and progenitor cell proliferation and differentiation through the activation of certain genes that define the stem/progenitor cell compartment.
After the Diagnosis: An Operational Theology for the Terminally Ill

Concludes from clinical vignettes that seriously ill persons utilize images drawn from personal, idiosyncratic operational theologies as much as they do from official religious teachings. Illustrates this thesis by analyzing societal images of death and by exploring notions of waiting activities, remembering gratefully, hoping realistically, and trusting courageously.
Flexible Ureteropyeloscopy: Diagnosis and Treatment in the Upper Urinary Tract

AbstractFlexible ureteropyeloscopy was performed on 59 patients with 2.7, 3.2 or 3.6mm. endoscopes with a deflectable tip. Techniques for use of these flexible endoscopes are discussed in detail. The endoscope could be passed into the ureter in 58 patients and into the kidney in 52 (88 per cent). The entire collecting system was visualized in 23 of the most recent 29 patients (79 per cent). A diagnosis was achieved in all 23 patients with an intrarenal filling defect demonstrated radiographically. The source of gross hematuria alone could be defined in 9 of 17 patients. Surveillance for tumor was achieved in 5 of 5 patients and for residual calculus in 4 of 4. The endoscope was used to establish continuity successfully in 3 patients with an obstructed ureteropelvic junction.An instrument with a deflectable tip and some technique for irrigation are essential for intrarenal inspection and complete visualization of the ureter. This procedure is valuable in selected patients and it rapidly may become the tech...
On the Relation Between “Mental” and “Physical” Self-Control

Abstract Through both internal and external influences, most humans exhibit a propensity to distinguish phenomena into “mental” and “physical” categories. Emerging from this propensity is the potential for self-control capabilities to vary as a function of metaphysical perceptions. In this chapter, we propose that if self-control can be perceived as reliant on either mental or physical processes—and if these processes can be perceived as either distinct or interactive—then metaphysical beliefs have the potential to influence emotional, cognitive, and behavioral features of self-control exertion. To support this proposal, the present chapter outlines several findings suggestive of a relationship between metaphysical beliefs and self-control engagement. Using both situational manipulations and individual difference measurements, our lab has identified meaningful variation in how self-control tasks are perceived metaphysically and has shown that these perceptions influence participant responding in self-control contexts. Together, the methods and findings discussed in the present chapter offer a novel extension of contemporary theory on the perceptual determinants of self-control exertion. Furthermore, they exemplify the importance of metaphysical beliefs within future scientific inquiry on self-control dynamics.
The Law of Requisite Variety

Two important questions are taken up here. First, what is the link between learning to make distinctions and achieving control? Establishing the link between learning and control is illustrated in terms of a game between an entity and its environment. Second, what is the maximum amount of control that can be achieved for some given amount of learning? The “law of requisite variety,” answers the second question. Theories can be built around “the law of requisite variety” because it specifies the boundary conditions of a stressed communication/control system.
Does Foot Anthropometry Predict Metabolic Cost During Running

Several recent investigations have linked running economy to heel length, with shorter heels being associated with less metabolic energy consumption. It has been hypothesized that shorter heels require larger plantarflexor muscle forces, thus increasing tendon energy storage and reducing metabolic cost. The goal of this study was to investigate this possible mechanism for metabolic cost reduction. Fifteen male subjects ran at 16 km·h-1 on a treadmill and subsequently on a force-plate instrumented runway. Measurements of oxygen consumption, kinematics, and ground reaction forces were collected. Correlational analyses were performed between oxygen consumption and anthropometric and kinetic variables associated with the ankle and foot. Correlations were also computed between kinetic variables (peak joint moment and peak tendon force) and heel length. Estimated peak Achilles tendon force normalized to bodyweight was found to be strongly correlated with heel length normalized to body height (r = -0.751, p = .0...
Comparison of Circumference Body Composition Measurements and Eight-Point Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis to Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry to Measure Body Fat Percentage.

ABSTRACT Background: To compare the circumference measurement (CM) body composition method and 8-point segmental bioelectrical impedance analysis (DSM-BIA) to dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) in military members. Objective: The objective was to compare three body composition methods. Our hypothesis was the CM is as accurate as DSM-BIA and DEXA in assessing body fat percentage (%BF). Design: Cross sectional, observational study. Participants/Setting: Healthy active duty military males and nonpregnant females. Seventy-six participants (mean age 35.0 ± 9.7 years, mean body mass index 28.9 ± 4.7 kg/m2), outpatient clinic setting was used. Statistical Analyses: Agreement between DEXA and the other two methods was examined using an intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) using the two-way random method with absolute agreement. Repeated measures analysis of covariance was used to examine the effect of gender and waist circumference on differences in %BF. Results: The agreement of DSM-BIA with DEXA for fe...
E-047 Endovascular cerebellar artery sacrifice: clinical outcomes in 28 patients

Background Endovascular treatment of lesions associated with the cerebellar arteries is ideally performed with preservation of cerebellar artery flow, but cerebellar artery sacrifice may sometimes be necessary. Clinical outcomes and complication rates of cerebellar artery sacrifice not well defined. Methods We retrospectively reviewed cases of endovascular sacrifice of the superior cerebellar artery (SCA), posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA), and anterior inferior cerebellar artery (AICA) in patients with aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations (AVM), or tumors supplied by the corresponding artery. Baseline modified Rankin Scale (mRS) and pre-procedure acute intracranial hemorrhage hydrocephalus, and/or ventriculostomy were recorded along with diameter of the sacrificed cerebellar artery. Outcomes included new clinical neurological deficits, imaging evidence of cerebellar infarction, worsening hydrocephalus, new EVD placement, and craniectomy within 4 weeks of the procedure. Modified Rankin Scale at discharge and at 3 months was also recorded. Results Of the 28 patients treated with endovascular cerebellar artery sacrifice, 22 had aneurysms, 5 had AVMs, and 1 had a tumor (hemangioblastoma) fed by the sacrificed cerebellar artery. Overall, 16 PICAs, 8 SCAs, and 4 AICAs were sacrificed. The mean vessel diameter was 1.45 mm. Twelve patients (42.9%) developed clinical neurological deficits within 4 weeks of the procedure that could be attributed to the occluded vessel. Of these patients, 8 developed imaging evidence of infarction in the corresponding arterial territory within 4 weeks of the procedure. Separately, there were 3 patients that developed imaging evidence of infarction without associated clinical neurological deficits. The mean vessel diameter of patients who developed imaging evidence of infarction was 1.2 mm, and the mean vessel diameter of patients who did not develop imaging evidence of infarction was 1.5 mm. Ten patients (35.7%) developed worsening hydrocephalus within 4 weeks of the procedure; 6 of these patients required placement of a new EVD. A single patient without worsening hydrocephalus required a new EVD electively after several unsuccessful attempts at weaning the indwelling contralateral EVD. Two patients required craniotomy within 4 weeks of the procedure, one which was planned pre-procedure and the other which was for evacuation of a new acute hematoma secondary to AVM hemorrhage. Six patients (21.4%) died prior to hospital discharge. Sixteen patients (57.1%) made a good recovery at 3 months (mRS ≤2). Mean angiographic follow-up period was 137.7 days (range 0–1169 days). Conclusions Similar to open surgical cerebellar artery sacrifice, endovascular cerebellar artery sacrifice is associated with a high risk of infarction, hydrocephalus, and death. Disclosures M. Austin: None. R. Rimer: None. C. Chou: None. A. Wallace: None. M. Kamran: None. C. Moran: 2; C; Medtronic, Microvention. D. Cross: None. J. Osbun: None. G. Zipfel: 1; C; NIH, AHA. R. Dacey: None. A. Kansagra: None.
Effects of Sedentary Behavior, Physical Activity, Frequency of Protein Consumption, Lower Extremity Strength and Lean Mass on All-Cause Mortality.

Background No study has evaluated the potential independent and cumulative effects of physical activity, sedentary behavior, daily frequency of protein consumption, lean mass and muscular strength on mortality risk. Methods Data from the 1999-2002 NHANES were utilized (N = 1,079 adults 50-85 yr), with follow-up through 2011. Leg lean mass was estimated from DXA scans. Knee extensor strength was assessed using the Kin Com MP dynamometer. Physical activity and sedentary behavior were assessed via questionnaire, with the number of meals/day of ≥30 g of protein/meal assessed via a "multiple pass" 24-hour dietary interview. An index score was created (range = 0-5) indicating the number of these health characteristics each participant had. Results Only less sedentary behavior was independently associated with reduced mortality risk (HRadjustment = 0.46; 0.32-0.66). After adjustments, and compared to those with an index score of 0, those with an index score of 1, 2 and 3+, respectively, had a 34%, 49%, and 57% reduced risk of all-cause mortality. Conclusion While considering physical activity, sedentary behavior, daily protein frequency consumption, lean mass and muscular strength, only sedentary behavior was independently associated with mortality risk among older adults.
Response-Conservation accord.

Chen et al. argue against allowing corporations to participate formally in a Global Agreement of Biodiversity (GAB). Instead, they suggest an agreement in which only countries sign and enforce. Unfortunately, there is little evidence to indicate that current global agreements and financing are
Evolving protocols and agents in multiagent systems

We consider multiagent systems that involve two or more business partners interacting via autonomous software agents. A (business) protocol describes the messages exchanged by the agents in high-level terms. Such systems pose a major challenge with requirements evolution. Current approaches couple agent and protocol designs, requiring coordinated changes. In contrast, we propose an approach that decouples agent and protocol designs, while maintaining interoperability. We build on the well-known architectural construct of an interceptor. We introduce interaction refactorings to transform interactions in response to evolving requirements, with each refactoring incrementally changing agents, interceptors, and the protocol. We identify three main forms of requirements evolution and propose an extensible library of refactorings that help address each form. We demonstrate the approach through examples and a JADE prototype.
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

One of the leading publishers of textbooks and other educational materials for the U.S. K-12 educational instruction market has suffered a dramatic decline in sales and profits in the wake of the 2008-2009 financial market crisis and economic recession and is now overburdened with debt. To regain its competitiveness, the company has to significantly reduce its debt by billions of dollars. Company management is trying to decide which of several options is best for achieving this goal, including filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, restructuring its debt out-of-court, or filing a "pre-packaged" Chapter 11 bankruptcy.Learning Objective: Understand economic tradeoff between legal bankruptcy reorganzation and out-of-court restructuring.
Complexity in Rayleigh-Bénard Convection

We outline a simple derivation of a generalized Swift-Hohenberg model (GSH) and present a numerical study of mean-flow induced spiral turbulence for this model in two dimensions. We show that this model has a spatiotemporal chaotic state comprised of a large number of rotating spirals. These results are quite similar to recent experimental observations.
Genetic evaluation of patients with congenital heart disease

Purpose of reviewThe aim of this study is to review genetics of congenital heart disease (CHD) with a focus on clinical applications, genetic testing and clinical challenges.Recent findingsWith improved clinical care, there is a rapidly expanding population of adults, especially women, with CHD who
Venous Thromboembolism and Cancer

This review aims to summarize the epidemiology, current pathophysiologic understanding, and state-of-the-art treatment of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in cancer patients. The risk of VTE varies among cancer patients. Recently introduced prediction models better identify those at high risk of VTE. New mechanisms underlying hypercoagulability in cancer have been uncovered. Initial data on the efficacy of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) compared with low-molecular weight heparin to treat VTE in patients with cancer are promising. However, they may be associated with higher risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. VTE causes significant morbidity and mortality in cancer patients. Our understanding of the mechanisms of VTE, including those associated with cancer treatments, has significantly grown. The assessment of the benefit/risk balance of VTE treatment remains challenging in many patients with cancer. The introduction of DOACs has expanded treatment options, but knowledge on their efficacy and safety is incomplete.
Successful implementation of an intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) bundle in reducing severe ICH: a quality improvement project

Our specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-limited (SMART) aim was to reduce the incidence of severe intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) among preterm infants born <30 weeks’ gestation from a baseline of 24% (January 2012–December 2013) to a long-term average of 11% by December 2015. We instituted an ICH bundle consisting of elements of the “golden hour” (delayed cord clamping, optimized cardiopulmonary resuscitation, improved thermoregulation) and provision of cluster care in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). We identified key drivers to achieve our SMART aims, and implemented quality improvement (QI) cycles: initiation of the ICH bundle, education of NICU staff, and emphasis on sustained adherence. We excluded infants born outside our facility and those with congenital anomalies. Using statistical process control analysis (p-chart), the ICH bundle was associated with successful reduction in severe ICH (grade 3–4) in our NICU from a prebundle rate of 24% (January 2012–December 2013) to a sustained reduction over the next 4 years to an average rate of 9.7% by December 2017. Results during 2016–2017 showed a sustained improvement beyond the goal for 2014–2015. Over the same interval, there was improvement in admission temperatures [median 36.1 °C (interquartile range: 35.3–36.7 °C) vs. 37.1 °C (36.8–37.5 °C), p < 0.01] and a decrease in mortality rate [pre: 16/117 (14%) vs. post: 16/281 (6%), P < 0.01]. Our multidisciplinary QI initiative decreased severe ICH in our institution from a baseline rate of 24% to a lower rate of 9.7% over the ensuing 4 years. Intensive focus on sustained implementation of an ICH bundle protocol consisting of improved delivery room management, thermoregulation, and clustered care in the NICU was temporally associated with a clinically significant reduction in severe ICH.
Establishment of a Shoot Culture System for Larix Decidua

One limiting aspect in the micropropagation of many conifers is the inability to establish a sustained shoot culture based on axillary bud proliferation. In contrast, all successful commercial micropropagation systems of dicotyledonous woody plants, are based on the establishment of such a shoot culture system. Most conifer microculture systems rely on the one time proliferation of adventitious buds from embryonic tissue, with very few species being capable of reliable and sustained axillary bud proliferation from these adventitious buds.
Introduction: Quaker Engagements with Mysticism

From their beginnings in the middle of the seventeenth century in England, Quakerism has emphasized a spirituality of divine imminence and interiority. For early Quakers, a “Testimony” was the result of a comprehensive transformation of one’s whole self. A doctrine of unity with God, first called the “Inward Light” or “Light Within,” has led many to consider Quakerism as inherently mystical. Quaker interiority led Quakers in a long tradition of interacting and dialoguing with other religious traditions. While the types of spirituality have changed over time, Quakers have maintained a strong interest in the mystical and have borrowed from mystical sources in ways that have internal resonance. This chapter explores the historiography of Quakers and mysticism and introduces the main contributions of this volume.
Strong, Ultralight Nanofoams with Extreme Recovery and Dissipation by Manipulation of Internal Adhesive Contacts.

Advances in three-dimensional nanofabrication techniques have enabled the development of lightweight solids, such as hollow nanolattices, having record values of specific stiffness and strength, al...
An Interdisciplinary Approach to Sports Analytics in a University Setting

As of 2019, sports analytics has grown to be a $780 million industry [1]. Many organizations and institutions contribute to the field through research in exercise science, optimization of in-game decision making, sports marketing, business performance, and sports compliance fields. We propose an open, interdisciplinary approach to sports analytics within institutes of higher education to work across many fields and provide opportunities to diverse members within the community, enable research and communication across fields, serve the surrounding community, and ethically use data.
Closed-loop fMRI neurofeedback to reduce negative attentional bias in depression

Abstract Depressed individuals show an attentional bias toward negatively valenced stimuli and thoughts. Here we present a novel closed-loop neurofeedback procedure that seeks to remediate this bias. Internal attentional states were detected by applying machine learning techniques to fMRI data in real-time, and externalized using a visually presented stimulus that the participant could learn to control. We trained 15 depressed and 12 healthy control participants over three fMRI sessions, preceded and followed by behavioral and clinical assessments. Initially, depressed participants were more likely than non-depressed participants to get “stuck” in negative attentional states, but this diminished with neurofeedback training relative to controls. Depression severity also decreased from pre- to post-training. These results demonstrate that our method is sensitive to the negative attentional bias in depressed individuals, and its reduction after training showcases the potential of this method as a treatment in the future.
Abstract IA09: Genomics of common AYA lymphomas: Hodgkin lymphoma and primary mediastinal B-cell lymphoma

Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) and primary mediastinal B-cell lymphoma (PMBCL) are both B-cell malignancies that commonly arise in the mediastinum and have a peak incidence in the adolescent and young adult (AYA) age range of 15-39y. Advances in sequencing technology with low-input samples have allowed for recent advances in our knowledge of the key molecular alterations in these lymphoma subtypes. In this session, we will discuss the unique genomic features of HL and PMBCL and highlight what is known about differences across the age spectrum. We will also discuss how genomics can inform the use of novel therapies for HL and PMBCL. Hodgkin lymphoma has traditionally been challenging to study by standard genomic platforms given the rarity of the Hodgkin Reed Sternberg (HRS) cell among the extensive inflammatory infiltrate. Recently, our group and others have utilized flow cytometry to sort HRS cells and intratumoral T and B cells for genomic analyses. Optimization of library preparation for ultralow ( Primary mediastinal B-cell lymphoma is a rare subtype of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, accounting for 2% to 3% of NHL. The disease typically presents as a large mediastinal mass in patients in the AYA age range, with an increased incidence in females. Although previously considered a subtype of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, PMBCL is now recognized as its own clinical and molecular/pathologic entity that shares many similarities with Hodgkin lymphoma. Recent genomic characterization of PMBCL has been performed using whole-exome sequencing (Mottok et al., Blood 2019; Chapuy et al., Blood 2019). These studies reported recurrent alterations in components of JAK/STAT and NF-κB signaling as well as genetic mechanisms of immune evasion similar to that observed in cHL including alterations in B2M, CD274, and CIITA. In addition, cases were observed to have high tumor mutational burden and an apolipoprotein B mRNA editing catalytic polypeptide-like (APOBEC) mutation signature, which may confer sensitivity to PD-1 blockade. In summary, recent genomic findings in HL and PMBCL demonstrate molecular similarities between these lymphoma subtypes and define the genetic basis for immune evasion sensitivity to PD-1 blockade. This has translated to national clinical trials for AYAs with HL and PMBCL. A randomized phase III trial of nivolumab + AVD vs. brentuximab + AVD for children and adults with advanced stage HL is currently ongoing (NCT03907488). In PMBCL, a randomized phase III trial evaluating nivolumab in combination with standard therapy for upfront disease is in development and will include pediatric and adult patients across NCTN sites. Citation Format: Lisa G. Giulino-Roth. Genomics of common AYA lymphomas: Hodgkin lymphoma and primary mediastinal B-cell lymphoma [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Meeting: Advances in Malignant Lymphoma; 2020 Aug 17-19. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Blood Cancer Discov 2020;1(3_Suppl):Abstract nr IA09.
A Comparison between Conventional Buck and 2-pscB DC-DC Converters

Compared to conventional Buck, the automatic current sharing mechanism is one technical advantage of the two-phase series capacitor buck converter (2-pscB), but this benefit is generally not enough to justify the limitation of output load potential. The other very important advantage is the simplified control scheme with fewer current sensing loops, as claimed in the previous publication. To fill in the gap and better understand the differences between these two topologies, this paper provides a complete comparison. Theoretical and experimental analysis of 2-pscB with a signal-variation model and the parasitic component linearization are developed to design a robust controller and to satisfy the stability and performance of the converter. The current sharing tolerance mechanism and switching node voltages in the frequency domain were as predicted. Heat distribution was not that good due to the circuit layout.
High Expression of Polyomavirus-Encoded MicroRNAs in Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy and BK Polyomavirus-Associated Nephropathy Tissues, and Their Repressive Role in Virus Replication

Background: Replication of JC polyomavirus (JCPyV, JCV) is associated with the pathogenesis of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). The JCPyV genome encodes a microRNA (miRNA) in the region encoding the large T antigen. This JCPyV-encoded miRNA (miR-J1) has been detected in tissue and cerebrospinal fluid samples of patients with PML. However, the localisation of the miRNA has rarely been reported. Methods: We detected viral miRNA by in situ hybridisation in polyomavirus-infected tissues. We measured the miR-J1 copy number with real-time RT PCR. Small RNAs were sequenced by next generation sequencing. Recombinant JCPyV DNA was transfected into cultured cells for functional analysis of the miRNA. Findings: We detected high expression of miR-J1 in the nuclei of JCPyV-infected cells in PML tissue samples by in situ hybridisation. In situ hybridisation also demonstrated the expression of BK polyomavirus (BKPyV, BKV)-encoded miRNA in lesions of BKPyV-associated nephropathy. Higher copy numbers of miR-J1 were detected in PML tissues than non-PML tissues by real-time PCR. Next generation sequencing showed that miR-J1-5p, a mature miRNA of miR-J1, was predominant in the lesions compared with miR-J1-3p, another mature miRNA. Deletion or mutation of miR-J1 in recombinant JCPyV promoted the production of JCPyV-encoded proteins in cells transfected with JCPyV DNA. Interpretation: We have demonstrated nuclear localisation of polyomavirus-encoded miRNA in tissue samples of polyomavirus-associated diseases. Our results suggest that polyomavirus-encoded miRNA may have a repressive role in viral replication in PML tissues. In situ hybridisation for viral miRNA may be a useful diagnostic tool for PML. Funding: AMED, JSPS, and MHLW, Japan. Declaration of Interest: The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest. Ethical Approval: All procedures performed in studies involving human tissues were in accordance with the ethical standards of the Institutional Review Board of the National Institute of Infectious Diseases (Approval No. 595) and with the 1964 Helsinki declaration and its later amendments or comparable ethical standards.
Designers, the Stage Is Yours! Medium-Fidelity Prototyping of Augmented & Virtual Reality Interfaces with 360theater

While augmented and virtual reality technologies are becoming mainstream, it is still technically challenging and time-consuming to create new applications. Many designers draw from traditional low-fidelity prototyping methods that do not lend themselves well to designing in 3D. Developers use high-end programming frameworks such as Unity and Unreal which require significant hardware/software setups and coding skills. We see a gap in the medium-fidelity range where there is an opportunity for new tools to leverage the advantages of 360° content for AR/VR prototyping. Existing tools, however, have only limited support for 3D geometry, spatial and proxemic interactions, puppeteering, and storytelling. We present 360theater, a new method and a tool for rapid prototyping of AR/VR experiences, which takes dioramas into the virtual realm by enhancing 360° video capture with 3D geometry and simulating spatial interactions via Wizard of Oz. Our comparative evaluation of techniques with novice and experienced AR/VR designers shows that 360theater can close the gap and achieve a higher fidelity and more realistic AR/VR prototypes than comparable methods.
Effect of Friction

Friction reduces wind velocity and therefore weakens the apparent acceleration due to the Coriolis effect. Because the pressure gradient is not directly affected by the presence of friction, the pressure gradient acceleration will exceed the weakened Coriolis effect in an environment in which friction is non-negligible. The result is that regardless of hemisphere, around any enclosed area of high pressure at the surface (anticyclone), air flows outward at some angle less than 90 degrees across the isobars (i.e., is ageostrophic), and around any enclosed area of low pressure (cyclone), air flows inward at some angle less than 90 degrees across the isobars. The angle of flow across the isobars increasingly approaches 90 degrees as friction increases. Likewise, aloft, where friction is negligible, the counter-clockwise circulation (in the Northern Hemisphere) around cyclones does NOT flow much inward, but instead goes in a more circular counter-clockwise fashion. The ageostrophic nature of the near-surface flow ultimately destroys the highs and lows. After enough air moves out of the high-pressure center, it is no longer a high-pressure center, and after enough air moves into the low-pressure center, it is no longer a low-pressure center. Therefore, anticyclones and cyclones appear and disappear more quickly at the surface, where friction is strongest, than aloft. These anticyclones and cyclones support distinctive characteristic weather conditions.
Elevation Change of the Antarctic Ice Sheet: 1985 to 2020

Abstract. The largest uncertainty in future projections of sea level change comes from the uncertain response of the Antarctic Ice Sheet to the warming oceans and atmosphere. The ice sheet gains roughly 2000 km3 of ice from precipitation each year and losses a similar amount through solid ice discharge into the surrounding oceans. Numerous studies have shown that the ice sheet is currently out of long-term equilibrium, losing mass at an accelerated rate and increasing sea levels rise. Projections of sea-level change rely on accurate estimates of the contribution of land ice to the contemporary sea level budget. The longest observational record available to study the mass balance of the Earth’s ice sheets comes from satellite altimeters. This record, however, consists of multiple satellite missions with different life-spans, inconsistent measurement types (radar and laser) and of varying quality. To fully utilize these data, measurements from different missions must be cross-calibrated and integrated into a consistent record of change. Here, we present a novel approach for generating such a record. We describe in detail the advanced geophysical corrections applied and the processes needed to derive elevation change estimates. We processed the full archive record of satellite altimetry data, providing a seamless record of elevation change for the Antarctic Ice Sheet that spans the period 1985 to 2020. The data are produced and distributed as part of the NASA MEaSUREs ITS_LIVE project (Nilsson et al., 2021).
Factors Affecting Hearing Aid Adoption by Adults With High-Frequency Hearing Loss: The Beaver Dam Offspring Study

Purpose Hearing loss (HL) is common among middle-age and older adults, but hearing aid adoption is low. The purpose of this study was to measure the 10-year incidence of hearing aid adoption in a sample of primarily middle-age adults with high-frequency HL and identify factors associated with hearing aid adoption. Method This study included 579 adults (ages 34-80 years) with high-frequency pure-tone average > 25 dB HL (3-8 kHz) enrolled in the Beaver Dam Offspring Study. Hearing aid adoption was measured at 5- and 10-year follow-up examinations. Cox discrete-time proportional hazards models were used to evaluate factors associated with hearing aid adoption (presented as hazards ratios [HRs] and 95% confidence intervals [95% CI]). Results The 10-year cumulative incidence of hearing aid adoption was 14 per 1,000 person years. Factors significantly associated with adoption in a multivariable model were higher education (vs. 16+ years; 0-12: HR: 0.36, 95% CI [0.19, 0.69]; 13-15: HR: 0.52, 95% CI [0.27, 0.98]), worse high-frequency pure-tone average (per +1 dB; HR: 1.04, 95% CI [1.02, 1.06]), self-reported hearing handicap (screening versions of the Hearing Handicap Inventory score > 8; HR: 1.85, 95% CI [1.02, 3.38]), answering yes to "Do friends and relatives think you have a hearing problem?" (HR: 3.18, 95% CI [1.60, 6.33]) and using closed captions (HR: 2.86, 95% CI [1.08, 7.57]). Effects of age and sex were not significant. Conclusions Hearing aid adoption rates were low. Hearing sensitivity, socioeconomic status, and measures of the impact of HL on daily life were associated with adoption. Provider awareness of associated factors can contribute to timely and appropriate intervention.
Progesterone regulation of hTERT transcription in human endometrial cancer cells.

Proc Amer Assoc Cancer Res, Volume 47, 2006 5352 Objectives: In the normal endometrium, progesterone antagonizes the actions of estrogen and inhibits estrogen-induced cellular proliferation. Consequently, progestins have had some therapeutic benefit in the treatment of endometrial cancer. Telomerase activity is dynamic throughout the menstrual cycle and is highest during the proliferative phase under the influence of estrogen and then falls during the secretory phase under the influence of progesterone. Despite this observation, little is known regarding the role of progesterone in the control of telomerase expression. Thus, our goal was to determine progesterone’s role in regulation of telomerase activity in progesterone receptor (PR)-positive endometrial cancer cell lines. Mehods: In our lab, Ishikawa and ECC-1 cells have been previously shown to be estrogen receptor (ER) and PR-positive, and HEC-1B and RL 95-2 cells to be ER and PR-negative. Telomerase activity was assayed using a PCR-based telomeric repeat amplification protocol (TRAP) after cells were exposed to estradiol (E2), medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) or both. hTERT mRNA expression was assessed by real-time RT-PCR. To determine whether progesterone regulates transcripton of the hTERT gene, transient expression assays using luciferase reporter plasmids containing varying lengths of the 5’ promoter region of the hTERT gene were performed. Results: Among the PR-positive endometrial cancer cell lines, E2 (10−5 - 10−7 M) increased telomerase activity and hTERT mRNA expression in a dose-dependent manner. In contrast, MPA (10−6 M) inhibited E2 induced telomerase activity in the PR-positive endometrial cancer cell lines by 24 hours. This effect was not seen in the PR-negative endometrial cancer cell lines. hTERT mRNA levels were decreased parallel to suppression of telomerase activity. Luciferase assays demonstrated that exposure to MPA inhibited E2-induced activation of the hTERT promoter which contains two putative estrogen response elements (EREs) but no progesterone response elements (PREs). Conclusions: We provide evidence that progesterone suppresses estrogen-induced hTERT mRNA expression in PR-positive endometrial cancer cell lines. Downregulation of the PR and reactivation of telomerase activity are thought to occur in advanced stages of endometrial cancer; and thus, may be related. Further work focused on the interaction between progesterone, estrogen and telomerase may provide insight into endometrial carcinogenesis as well as the underlying molecular mechanisms of progestins as a targeted therapy for this estrogen-dependent tumor.
Trial by fire [rescue robots]

On September 11, 2001, the Center for Robot-Assisted Search and Rescue (CRASAR) responded within six hours to the World Trade Center (WTC) disaster; this is the first known use of robots for urban search and rescue (USAR). The University of South Florida (USF) was one of the four robot teams, and the only academic institution represented. The USF team participated onsite in the search efforts from 12-21 September 2001, collecting and archiving data on the use of all robots, in addition to actively fielding robots. This article provides an overview of the use of robots for USAR, concentrating on what robots were actually used and why. It describes the roles that the robots played in the response and the impact of the physical environment on the platforms. The quantitative and qualitative performance of the robots are summarized in terms of their components (mobility, sensors, control, communications, and power) and within the larger human-robot system. Lessons learned are offered and a synopsis of the current state of rescue robotics and activities at the CRASAR concludes the article.
Cannabinoids Enhance NMDA-Elicited Ca2+ Signals in Cerebellar Granule Neurons in Culture

A physiological role for cannabinoids in the CNS is indicated by the presence of endogenous cannabinoids and cannabinoid receptors. However, the cellular mechanisms of cannabinoid actions in the CNS have yet to be fully defined. In the current study, we identified a novel action of cannabinoids to enhance intracellular Ca2+ responses in CNS neurons. Acute application of the cannabinoid receptor agonists R(+)-methanandamide, R(+)-WIN, and HU-210 (1-50 nM) dose-dependently enhanced the peak amplitude of the Ca2+ response elicited by stimulation of the NMDA subtype of glutamate receptors (NMDARs) in cerebellar granule neurons. The cannabinoid effect was blocked by the cannabinoid receptor antagonist SR141716A and the Gi/Go protein inhibitor pertussis toxin but was not mimicked by the inactive cannabinoid analog S(-)-WIN, indicating the involvement of cannabinoid receptors. In current-clamp studies neither R(+)-WIN nor R(+)-methanandamide altered the membrane response to NMDA or passive membrane properties of granule neurons, suggesting that NMDARs are not the primary sites of cannabinoid action. Additional Ca2+ imaging studies showed that cannabinoid enhancement of the Ca2+ signal to NMDA did not involve N-, P-, or L-type Ca2+ channels but was dependent on Ca2+ release from intracellular stores. Moreover, the phospholipase C inhibitor U-73122 and the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) receptor antagonist xestospongin C blocked the cannabinoid effect, suggesting that the cannabinoid enhancement of NMDA-evoked Ca2+ signals results from enhanced release from IP3-sensitive Ca2+ stores. These data suggest that the CNS cannabinoid system could serve a critical modulatory role in CNS neurons through the regulation of intracellular Ca2+ signaling.
De puente a fortaleza: la evolución de los países BRICS en la estrategia global de Rusia

Russia has been the driving force in pushing and shaping the narrative of the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) since the group began to acquire a political identity in the mid-2000s. Russia’s motivations for promoting BRICS, however, have evolved considerably over the last decade. While Moscow’s initial goal was to use the group as a rhetorical device to strengthen Russia’s bargaining position with the West, in the wake of the ongoing crisis in Ukraine, BRICS has begun to symbolize for Russia a viable alternative to continued accommodation with the Western-led international system.
The effect of post-operative diet on recovery in the first twelve hours after tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy.

Abstract The effect of post-operative diet selection on the recovery rate of 100 children ages 3–17 years undergoing tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy (T & A) was studied. In the first 12 h after T & A children were allowed either a ‘restricted’ diet of only soft foods and liquids or a ‘non-restricted’ diet of foods preselected and usually eaten by the child. Parental evaluation of the child's general well being, pain level and nausea were evaluated. The number of episodes of emesis, doses of acetominophen and the list of foods and drinks consumed were also recorded. No significant differences in any aspect of recovery were noted between groups. However, a trend towards decreased nausea and parental perception of a more successful general recovery was noted at 12 h in the ‘non-restricted’ group. Children in the ‘non-restricted’ group were able to eat foods more often associated with their regular diet. No child from either group experienced any immediate or delayed complications. Implications for children and their families undergoing T & A are discussed.
An Economic Theory of Homelessness and Housing

Abstract There is good reason to suspect that changes in the housing market had something to do with the dramatic rise in the homelessness in the United States after 1980. Whether the housing market is responsible, however, remains a controversial question. Resolving this question takes two things: a theory of the housing market that includes homelessness and relates it with other measurable phenomena, and a great deal of serious empirical work to test the implications of that theory. This paper concentrates on the first task. The goal is to provide a fully worked-out model of the housing market with the possibility of homelessness. The basic set-up is a Sweeney model of filtering with a continuum of qualities of housing.
Predictors of Serious Violent Recidivism Results From a Cohort Study

Despite the growth in research on violent offenders, little is known about the existence of a career in violent crime. To fill the gap in the knowledge of violent offenders, the authors conducted a retrospective longitudinal study of all individuals arrested in Franklin County, OH, in 1973 for an FBI index violent crime. Those continuing in post-1973 criminal activities (as measured by an arrest) were not high-rate violent offenders; on the other hand, they maintained a higher than average amount of index violent and other violent criminal activity. They were arrested for a large number of serious crimes and committed a large number of the cohort's violent offenses. Contrary to expectations, many of these subjects seriously persisted in violent activities.
Using Facebook Page Insights Data to Determine Posting Best Practices in an Academic Health Sciences Library.

Tufts University Hirsh Health Sciences Library created a Facebook page and a corresponding managing committee in March 2010. Facebook Page Insights data collected from the library's Facebook page were statistically analyzed to investigate patterns of user engagement. The committee hoped to improve posting practices and increase user engagement with the page by studying trends uncovered from data analysis. The results showed that increased posting frequency correlated with more page likes and more user engagement. The type of post content also significantly increased user engagement with the library's Facebook page, with multimedia posts drawing the most interest from fans. Analysis showed that engagement did not significantly decrease during the summer semester compared to the rest of the academic year. Based on these and other findings, the committee created better posting guidelines and will be looking into ways to organize and time posts in order to collect better data and increase Facebook page fans. ...
Magnetoelectrics: The Universe in a solid design

A new material designed from first principles and subsequently synthesized and characterized in the laboratory may shed light on why there is much more matter than antimatter in the Universe.
Language comprehension: Archival memory or preparation for situated action?

Current paradigms study language comprehension as if archival memory were its primary function. Participants only receive linguistic material and are later tested on memory for its contents. In contrast, the 2 target articles in this issue—Glenberg and Robertson, and Roth—examine comprehension as if preparing for situated action were its primary function. Besides receiving linguistic materials as input, participants study objects, actions, and interactions among agents. Rather than simply being tested on memory for linguistic materials, participants also produce actions and enter into group interactions. Although these researchers focus their attention on specific genres—the comprehension of verbal instructions and the comprehension of scientific theories—their methods and findings have wider implications. In particular, the primary function of comprehension is not to archive information but is instead to prepare agents for situated action. Arguments from the evolution of cognition and language are brough...