cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Genetic biomarkers for the risk of seizures in long QT syndrome

Objectives: The coprevalence, severity, and biomarkers for seizures and arrhythmias in long QT syndrome (LQTS) remain incompletely understood. Methods: Using the Rochester-based LQTS Registry, this study included large cohorts of LQTS1–3 participants (LQTS + , n = 965) and those without a LQTS mutation (LQTS − , n = 936). Results: Compared to LQTS − participants, there was a higher prevalence of LQTS1, LQTS2, and LQTS + participants classified as having seizures ( p + participants with longer corrected QT interval (QT c ) durations were more likely to have seizures. LQTS2 mutations in the KCNH2 pore domain were positive predictors for both arrhythmias and seizures. In contrast, mutations in the cyclic nucleotide binding domain (cNBD) of KCNH2 conferred a negative risk of seizures, but not arrhythmias. LQTS2, KCNH2 -pore, KCNH2 -cNBD, QT c duration, and sex were independent predictors of seizures. LQTS + participants with seizures had significantly longer QT c durations, and a history of seizures was the strongest independent predictor of arrhythmias (hazard ratio 4.09, 95% confidence interval 2.63–6.36, p Conclusions: This study highlights potential biomarkers for neurocardiac electrical abnormalities in LQTS.
Versuch einer Sprache des Möglichen: Zum Problem des Erzählens bei Robert Musil

Robert Musil mochte eine Sprache entwerfen, die sich ihrer Grenzen bewust ist. In seinem Roman Der Mann ohne Eigenschaften versucht er deshalb einer Sprache der Tatsachenwelt eine Sprache des Moglichen gegenuberzustellen, die eine andere und gleichzeitig wahrere Welt reprasentieren soll. Der Aufsatz untersucht die Bedingungen und Struktur dieser Sprache.
The determination of trace contaminants in polymers

Although not as successful as anticipated, this first study has shown several pitfalls in the determination of trace ions not previously anticipated. It has shown (1) the presence of trace amounts of starting materials or hydrolysis products, both of which attack metallurgy; (2) elements present in the polymer are not always extractable and, therefore, not mobile; (3) pure materials may be contaminated by their containers; (4) several simultaneous analytical methods are necessary, since each has unique properties.
Nitric Oxide Prevents β-Cell Apoptosis Via Inhibition of the DNA Damage Response

The cytokine interleukin-1 (IL-1) has been implicated as a pathogenic factor in type-1 diabetes by causing inhibition of β-cell function, DNA damage and ultimate cell death. Nitric oxide, produced by β-cells following IL-1 exposure, mediates the inhibition of oxidative metabolism and insulin secretion and induces DNA damage in β-cells. We have recently shown that nitric oxide-induced DNA damage activates the DNA damage response (DDR), a signaling network that coordinates cell fate decisions in response to DNA damage and promotes β-cell apoptosis during IL-1 exposure. Though nitric oxide causes DNA damage, in this study we identified an additional role for nitric oxide as an inhibitor of the DDR. We show that while DNA damage induced by nitric oxide results in DDR activation, this only occurs when islets or insulinoma cells are no longer endogenously producing (in response to IL-1) or exogenously exposed to (with donor compounds) micromolar levels of nitric oxide. Further, we find that nitric oxide treatment of INS 832/13 cells or rat islets completely prevents DDR activation in response to genotoxic agents such as H2O2 and camptothecin, despite persistent DNA damage. Inhibition of the DDR by nitric oxide is associated with β-cell survival, as INS 832/13 cells are protected from DNA damage-dependent apoptosis induced by camptothecin. The ability to inhibit the DDR is restricted to nitric oxide, as other forms of ROS and RNS including superoxide (generated in response to menadione), H2O2, and peroxynitrite are not capable of impairing DDR signaling. Instead, we show that superoxide scavenges nitric oxide and completely prevents its ability to both inhibit DDR signaling and protect β-cells from DNA damage-induced cell death. These findings describe a novel protective role of nitric oxide by functioning as a brake on DDR signaling, thereby attenuating DNA damage-induced apoptosis.
More of a Competitor than a Trade Partner?: The Trans Pacific Partnership and Its Implications for Trade Relations

In times past, it used to be the case that leading economic nations were united by statements involving national delicacies and even donuts…However, signs of growing rifts and shifts in economic, trade and diplomatic relations are not only being evidenced by the recent conclusion of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) between Canada and the European Union, but also the current state and prospects of the Trans-Atlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) – which is currently being negotiated between the United States and the European Union – as well as the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) – an agreement between the United States and eleven other nations which are pre dominantly located within the Asia Pacific region. Whilst the Trans Pacific Partnership generates – as well as presents more controversial debates than other trade agreements, it is certainly without doubt, the most significant deal being negotiated in recent years – also in comparison to other World Trade Organization agreements. China’s notable absence from the TPP may have generated and contributed to controversies around the Agreement – however, it is also most certain that a conclusion and ratification of the TPP by the United States is crucial to preserving amicable trade and diplomatic relations with China. Hence in addition to highlighting the benefits of free trade agreements, this paper, a highly condensed version of its published version, serves to underline why the Trans Pacific Partnership may represent the best chance of mitigating or averting apparent or potential diplomatic rifts between global and economic leaders – not only from the perspective of the currently concluded Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) between Canada and the European Union, but also from the perspective of the Trans-Atlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) and the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP). The central theme of this paper – as with other papers published by the author in relation to Free Trade Agreements is namely that Free Trade Agreements, on their own, are intended to be beneficial to any economy. It ceases to be beneficial for a number of reasons, most notably, when they have been badly negotiated and lacking of essential provisions.
Time-domain attenuation measurements for fundamental spheroidal modes (0S6 to 0S28) for the 1977 Indonesian earthquake

abstract Using ultra-long period records of the 1977 Indonesian earthquake from seven IDA stations, we have measured the attenuation of fundamental spheroidal modes from 0 S 6 to 0 S 28 . We determine the attenuation of each mode using a time domain technique which minimizes the effects of noise on the measurements. These measurements are the first attenuation data for these modes from multiple ultra-long period records of a single earthquake. Our results are in good general agreement with single station attenuation measurements from the UCLA gravimeter records of the Alaskan earthquake. They show systematically lower Q −1 (less attenuation) than results from stacking WWSSN records.
Emotion regulation deficits in persons with body-focused repetitive behavior disorders.

Abstract Background Conceptualizations of emotion dysregulation (ED) and body-focused repetitive behavior disorders (BFRBDs) imply that ED may be a central component of BFRBDs as well as a factor that distinguishes BFRBDs from non-impairing, subclinical body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs). The current study empirically tested these observations. Methods One hundred thirty-eight undergraduates (of 1900 who completed a screening survey) completed self-report measures assessing four emotion regulation (ER) deficits hypothesized to underlie ED (alexithymia, maladaptive emotional reactivity, experiential avoidance, and response inhibition when distressed); 34 of these participants had BFRBDs, 64 had subclinical BFRBs, and 42 were unaffected by BFRBs. Results Results indicated that participants with BFRBDs reported higher levels of maladaptive emotional reactivity, experiential avoidance, and response inhibition when distressed than participants with subclinical BFRBs and participants unaffected by BFRBs. These results held even when controlling for comorbidity and total number of reported BFRBs. Participants did not differ on alexithymia. Limitations Limitations of the current study include the BFRB groups’ different distributions of BFRB types (e.g., hair pulling versus skin picking), the sample's demographic uniformity, and the fact that negative affectivity was not controlled when exploring BFRB group differences on ER deficits. Future research should improve on these limitations. Conclusions The current results suggest that ED is a factor that differentiates BFRBDs from subclinical BFRBs. Such results may be useful for generating hypotheses regarding mechanisms responsible for BFRBs’ development into BFRBDs. Furthermore, these results may provide insight into factors that explain the efficacy of more contemporary behavioral treatments for BFRBDs.
Methods and challenges for creating an emotional audio-visual database

Emotion has a very important role in human communication and can be expressed either verbally through speech (e.g. pitch, intonation, prosody etc), or by facial expressions, gestures etc. Most of the contemporary human-computer interaction are deficient in interpreting these information and hence suffers from lack of emotional intelligence. In other words, these systems are unable to identify human's emotional state and hence is not able to react properly. To overcome these inabilities, machines are required to be trained using annotated emotional data samples. Motivated from this fact, here we have attempted to collect and create an audio-visual emotional corpus. Audio-visual signals of multiple subjects were recorded when they were asked to watch either presentation (having background music) or emotional video clips. Post recording subjects were asked to express how they felt, and to read out sentences that appeared on the screen. Self annotation from the subject itself, as well as annotation from others have also been carried out to annotate the recorded data.
Gut microbiota and serum metabolite differences in African Americans and White Americans with high blood pressure.

Abstract Background Black Americans have greater rates, severity and resistance to treatment of hypertension than White Americans. The gut microbiota and its metabolites may contribute to this. This concept was tested in a pilot study. Methods Subjects with high (HBP, >140/80 mm Hg) and normal (NBP, Results All four subject groups had distinct gut microbiota taxonomy by partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA). More importantly, linear discriminant analysis effect size showed marked differences in function of the microbiota of BHBP and WHBP (PLS-DA) with LDA scores l -anserine. Discussion Combination analyses of functional gut metabolic pathways and metabolomics data in this small pilot study suggest that BHBP may have greater oxidative stress markers in plasma, greater inflammatory potential of the gut microbiome and altered metabolites with gut microbial functions implying insulin resistance. A fuller understanding of these potential differences could lead to race-based treatments for hypertension.
Abstract 122: Cardiac mTOR Preserves Cardiac Function Following Ex Vivo Ischemia-Reperfusion in Diet-Induced Obese Mice

The risk of heart failure following myocardial infarction is higher in diabetic patients than nondiabetic patients. The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), a key downstream molecule of insulin-phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)-Akt signaling pathway, plays an important role in cardioprotection. However, the role of cardiac mTOR in ischemic injury in metabolic syndrome has not been well defined. To address this question, we studied the effect of overexpressing cardiac mTOR on cardiac function following ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) in mice with high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity. In this study, we used transgenic mice with cardiac-specific overexpression of mTOR (mTOR-Tg) as reported previously. mTOR-Tg and WT mice at 6 weeks old were fed HFD (60% fat by calories) ad libitum for 14 weeks. Control mTOR-Tg and WT mice were fed a normal chow diet (NCD). At 14 weeks after HFD, glucose and insulin tolerance tests demonstrated that HFD generated glucose intolerance and insulin resistance in both mTOR-Tg (n=20) and WT (n=24) mice. Body weight (BW) and heart weight (HW) were significantly higher in HFD mice than SCD mice (p
Emerging Kidney Models to Investigate Metabolism, Transport, and Toxicity of Drugs and Xenobiotics

The kidney is a major clearance organ of the body and is responsible for the elimination of many xenobiotics and prescription drugs. With its multitude of uptake and efflux transporters and metabolizing enzymes, the proximal tubule cell (PTC) in the nephron plays a key role in the disposition of xenobiotics and is also a primary site for toxicity. In this minireview, we first provide an overview of the major transporters and metabolizing enzymes in the PTCs responsible for biotransformation and disposition of drugs. Next, we discuss different cell sources that have been used to model PTCs in vitro, their pros and cons, and their characterization. As current technology is inadequate to evaluate reliably drug disposition and toxicity in the kidney, we then discuss recent advancements in kidney microphysiological systems (MPS) and the need to develop robust in vitro platforms that could be routinely used by pharmaceutical companies to screen compounds. Finally, we discuss the new and exciting field of stem cell–derived kidney models as potential cell sources for future kidney MPS. Given the push from both regulatory agencies and pharmaceutical companies to use more predictive “human-like” in vitro systems in the early stages of drug development to reduce attrition, these emerging models have the potential to be a game changer and may revolutionize how renal disposition and kidney toxicity in drug discovery are evaluated in the future.
Excitation of hybrid epsilon-near-zero/plasmonic modes in ALD-AZO coated nanoantennae

We study optical properties of nanoantennae conformally coated with epsilon-near-zero (ENZ) Al-doped zinc oxide thin films. Results show splitting of nanoantenna resonance due to coupling between plasmonic and ENZ modes.
Risks Posed by out of Service Russian Nuclear Submarines and Proposed Methods to Minimize the Risks

The Soviet Union constructed the world’s largest submarine force. During the cold war some 230 nuclear submarines were constructed. Little thought was given to the process of decommissioning and scrapping these ships once their service life ended. Currently, more than 130 Russian nuclear submarines havebeentaken out of service and are in the Russian Arctic and Far East. While some ships have been scrapped, most of these submarines remain waterborne. Spent nuclear fuel is still in 60% of these ships. Most of the remaining 40% of the spent fuel is stored at Russian naval facilities, either in fuel servicing vessels or in wet storage ashore. The submarines and the support facilities are deteriorating.
The Relationship Between Serum Ionized Magnesium Concentrations and Diastolic Blood Pressure in Overweight and Obese Adults (P24-040-19)

Adequate magnesium (Mg) status has been shown to be associated with improved cardiometabolic health. Magnesium status is commonly assessed by measuring serum concentrations of Mg in clinical settings; however, serum concentrations of ionized Mg (iMg) is a better indicator of bioavailable Mg status. Few researchers have assessed iMg as a measure of Mg status due to difficulties in sample preparation and storage. Furthermore, the influence of iMg concentrations on cardiometabolic health is scarce. The objective of this study was to investigate whether changes in iMg induced by supplementation may affect cardiometabolic health parameters in an overweight and obese (owt/ob) population. Participants were randomly assigned to receive a daily dose of magnesium (360 mg Mg glycinate) and/or vitamin D (1000 IU D₃) supplements or placebo in a 12-week double-blinded, randomized ongoing clinical trial. Because this is an ongoing study, the analyses are still not unblinded. Blood samples were obtained for analyses of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (s25OHD), parathyroid hormone, total triglyceride, insulin, fasting glucose and inflammatory cytokine concentrations to determine cardiometabolic risk factors. Serum concentration of iMg were assessed by a NOVA-8 analyzer with an ion sensitive electrode method, using serum samples within 5 hours of initial venipuncture for each participant. Seated blood pressure was assessed with an automated oscillometric device on the right arm, according to the American Heart Association Guidelines for In-Clinic Blood Pressure Measurement. A total of 66 Owt/Ob adults, 29 to 65 years of age, with a body mass index (BMI) between 24 to 41 kg/m², completed all study measurements. Mean iMg concentrations at baseline were 0.543 ± 0.055 mmol/L. There was a significant negative correlation between change in iMg and change in diastolic blood pressure (r = −0.299, P = 0.039). Improvement in Mg status may be associated with lowering of diastolic blood pressure. Whether changes in iMg status may affect overall cardiometabolic health is inconclusive at this point. American Heart Association.
The role of SIRT1 in skeletal muscle function and repair of older mice

BACKGROUND Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) is a NAD+ sensitive deacetylase that has been linked to longevity and has been suggested to confer beneficial effects that counter aging-associated deterioration. Muscle repair is dependent upon satellite cell function, which is reported to be reduced with aging; however, it is not known if this is linked to an aging-suppression of SIRT1. This study tested the hypothesis that Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) overexpression would increase the extent of muscle repair and muscle function in older mice. METHODS We examined satellite cell dependent repair in tibialis anterior, gastrocnemius, and soleus muscles of 13 young wild-type mice (20-30 weeks) and 49 older (80+ weeks) mice that were controls (n = 13), overexpressed SIRT1 in skeletal muscle (n = 14), and had a skeletal muscle SIRT1 knockout (n = 12) or a satellite cell SIRT1 knockout (n = 10). Acute muscle injury was induced by injection of cardiotoxin (CTX), and phosphate-buffered saline was used as a vector control. Plantarflexor muscle force and fatigue were evaluated before or 21 days after CTX injection. Satellite cell proliferation and mitochondrial function were also evaluated in undamaged muscles. RESULTS Maximal muscle force was significantly lower in control muscles of older satellite cell knockout SIRT1 mice compared to young adult wild-type (YWT) mice (P < 0.001). Mean contraction force at 40 Hz stimulation was significantly greater after recovery from CTX injury in older mice that overexpressed muscle SIRT1 than age-matched SIRT1 knockout mice (P < 0.05). SIRT1 muscle knockout models (P < 0.05) had greater levels of p53 (P < 0.05 MKO, P < 0.001 OE) in CTX-damaged tissues as compared to YWT CTX mice. SIRT1 overexpression with co-expression of p53 was associated with increased fatigue resistance and increased force potentiation during repeated contractions as compared to wild-type or SIRT1 knockout models (P < 0.001). Muscle structure and mitochondrial function were not different between the groups, but proliferation of satellite cells was significantly greater in older mice with SIRT1 muscle knockout (P < 0.05), but not older SIRT1 satellite cell knockout models, in vitro, although this effect was attenuated in vivo after 21 days of recovery. CONCLUSIONS The data suggest skeletal muscle structure, function, and recovery after CTX-induced injury are not significantly influenced by gain or loss of SIRT1 abundance alone in skeletal muscle; however, muscle function is impaired by ablation of SIRT1 in satellite cells. SIRT1 appears to interact with p53 to improve muscle fatigue resistance after repair from muscle injury.
Provider miscategorization of frailty in an outpatient urogynecologic population.

Routine assessment of frailty preoperatively is recommended for older adults, because frailty is associated with adverse surgical outcomes. This study was aimed at describing the percentage of patients whose frailty status was correctly categorized by Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery (FPRMS) providers and to determine patient predictors of accurate categorization. Cross-sectional study was carried out of English speaking, new patients, >65 years old, presenting from March to June 2018. Providers categorized patients as frail, pre-frail, or not frail based on clinical impression. Frailty was defined using the Fried Frailty Assessment (FFA), a validated, objective measure including weight loss, exhaustion, physical activity, walk speed, and grip strength. Provider categorizations were compared with FFA results. Multiple logistic regression was used to estimate patient predictors of frailty categorization. Data from other fields that approximated a 45% proportion of miscategorization guided sample size estimates. Ten FPMRS providers participated, and 106 out of 110 patients (96%) had complete data. Primary diagnoses were pelvic organ prolapse (37%), incontinence (20%), and overactive bladder (17%). On FFA, 16 (15%) patients were frail, 50 (47%) were pre-frail, and 40 (38%) were not frail. The overall proportion of miscategorization was 58% (95% confidence interval 49–68%). Providers correctly categorized 50% of frail patients, 34% of pre-frail patients, and 48% of non-frail patients. Slow walk time was associated with provider categorization of frailty, regardless of frailty status (p = 0.01). Clinical impression may not adequately assess frailty. Miscategorization of frailty by FPMRS providers was higher than in other fields.
Exploratory Laparotomy, Right/Left Nephrectomy, Paraaortic/Paracaval Lymph Node Dissection

This chapter describes the surgical procedure: exploratory laparotomy, right/left nephrectomy, paraaortic/paracaval lymph node dissection. The text includes an introduction that outlines the indications, risks, alternatives, essential steps, needed equipment, and variations in technique for the procedure in question. This is followed by a template operative dictation, which provides the reader with an operative report, such as is found in a patient chart or electronic medical record. A description is provided of the following critical concepts for this procedure: mobilization of the colon, dissection of the kidney, vascular control and ligation, ureteral division, and lymph node sampling.
Chalcones bearing a 3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl motif are capable of selectively inhibiting oncogenic K-Ras signaling

Ras proteins are small GTPases which regulate cellular proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Constitutively active mutant Ras are expressed in ~15-20% human cancers, and K-Ras mutations account for ~85% of all Ras mutations. Despite the significance of Ras proteins in refractory cancers, there is no anti-Ras drug available in clinic. Since K-Ras must interact with the plasma membrane (PM) for biological activity, inhibition of the K-Ras/PM interaction is a tractable approach to block oncogenic K-Ras activity. Here, we discovered chalcones 1 and 8 exhibit anti-K-Ras activity, and show that the compounds mislocalize K-Ras from the PM and block oncogenic K-Ras signal output. Also, 1 inhibits the growth of K-Ras-driven human cancer cells. Our data suggest that 1 could be a promising starting point for developing anti-K-Ras cancer drug.
9 – Programming Languages

Publisher Summary This chapter focuses on the differences among machine, assembly, and high-level programming languages. The chapter reviews the operation of program translators such as assemblers, compilers, and interpreters. Each computer can understand only its own machine language. Machine language instructs a computer to perform its most fundamental operations, machine language consists of strings of numbers—reduced to 1s and 0s—that cause the computer to perform various operations, and machine languages are said to be machine dependent—they are closely related to the structure of a particular computer. However, programmers rarely write in machine language. Today assembly languages or high-level languages are used. A program of instructions written in assembly language is called a source program—an assembler program translates it into a machine language program also called an object program. Programs can be written faster in assembly language, but they must be translated into machine language before execution. Machine dependent assembly language programs are not portable.
Six Feet Apart, yet Closer than Ever.

Because of the urgency of the COVID-19 pandemic, ATS Scholar is posting accepted, peer-reviewed versions of all COVID-19-related papers. These articles have not yet been copyedited, typeset, and do...
Foundations of Information Ethics: Edited by John T. Burgess and Emily J. M. Knox. Chicago, IL: ALA Neal-Schuman, 2019. 168 pp. $54.99 (paperback). ISBN 978-0-8389-1722-0.

I was fortunate enough, in graduate school, to take a class on information ethics. I remember being fascinated, yet overwhelmed with the information offered, and perplexed by how to apply what I le...
Implementation of an enhanced discharge teaching protocol to reduce 30-day hospital readmissions in adults diagnosed with Sickle Cell Disease

Background and objectives: Sickle Cell Disease is a painful genetic disorder characterized by abnormal hemoglobin that affects 1-in-365 African American births. Individuals with Sickle Cell Disease often experience frequent hospitalizations, resulting in 30-day readmission rates 2.5 times higher than those without Sickle Cell Disease. Discharge education programs have shown to improve 30-day readmissions and improve health outcomes. Methods: This advanced practice nurse-led initiative incorporated components of the Re-Engineered Discharge (Project RED) protocol, which included patient and medication education, specific discharge teaching, and post-discharge follow-up phone calls over a 12-week period. A pre/posttest design was used to evaluate 30-day readmission. Analyses included descriptive statistics and Fisher’s exact test. Results: Of the (N = 10) participants, eight (80%) were female, with a mean age of 31.08 (± 4.33) and all were African Americans. Although not statistically significant, there was a 48% reduction in 30-day readmissions rates between the pre/post intervention periods. Conclusions: The utilization of an enhanced discharge teaching protocol is a practical solution to increase patients’ readiness for discharge and to reduce 30-day readmission rates. Project RED discharge teaching protocol is an effective strategy for nurses to employ to improve patient outcomes and quality of care for persons with Sickle Cell Disease.
Telegenetics for inherited retinal diseases in the COVID-19 environment

Inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) are visually debilitating conditions that affect families worldwide. They require extensive clinical testing, examination, and patient and family counseling, which are frequently accomplished over single-day extended clinic visits. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has limited the number of patients and staff allowed in clinics, leading to interruptions in care. We therefore developed telehealth management protocols for complete or hybrid virtual visits. The three main components of our telegenetics approach included reviewing the diagnostic tests results remotely, in-person or virtual video visits with a retina specialist, and virtual genetic testing using saliva kits. During the first 5 months of the program, telegenetic care was provided for 80 patients, including 3 international patients, and a spectrum of retinal dystrophies were diagnosed and managed. In conclusion, telegenetic virtual visits ensure continuity of care while reducing patient and provider exposure to SARS-CoV-2 and may continue and expand into other medical genetic conditions long after the pandemic.
A new mechanism of failure on polymers

Transparent laminates containing imbedded crystals of various ionic and nonionic substances were prepared and their swelling in distilled water was observed. It was found that under certain conditions, disk-shaped cracks formed around the swollen pockets containing a dissolving crystal. Such cracks can form before equilibrium swelling is reached and may severely damage the elastomer.
Fostering educator identity through social media

Background Communities of practice (CoPs) are integral to professional identify formation (PIF) of educators. However, it can be challenging to identify and engage with such communities. Social media (SoMe) can facilitate formation of virtual CoPs, support PIF and increase visibility and recognition among peers. Yet, privacy concerns, lack of skills, time constraints and value doubts are reported barriers. The purpose of this study was to explore perceived benefits, challenges and suggested strategies to promote SoMe engagement from a group of health professions educators (HPEs). Methods Using qualitative methodology, we explored opinions of educators participating in Harvard Macy Institute courses regarding professional SoMe use through focus group discussions. Discussions were audiotaped and transcribed, and thematic analysis was performed. Brief questionnaires were distributed to collect frequency of and confidence in SoMe use; these data were analysed descriptively. The Partners Healthcare Institutional Review Board approved the study. Results Forty-eight educators participated in six focus groups. About 93.8% had at least one professional SoMe account, although engagement frequency varied. Qualitative analysis revealed three themes: (1) challenges to engagement, including juggling commitments and feeling overwhelmed; (2) benefits to joining a community, including staying informed and sharing scholarship; and (3) strategies to encourage inclusion, including tailored training and institutional champions. Conclusion Though challenges to engagement were reported, participants noted multiple benefits. SoMe engagement can foster virtual CoPs among HPEs and potentially contribute to PIF. Subsequently, we offer five recommendations for efficient and impactful social media engagement for healthcare professionals.
Silence After Stops? Assessing Youth Disclosure of Police Encounters.

Youth-police encounters are common in the United States, with potentially serious mental health ramifications requiring social supports to cope. Still, no research has examined youth disclosure of these experiences to others. Using a national sample of youth stopped by police (N = 918; 56.09% Black, 20.48% Hispanic), we find that more than two-thirds disclosed police encounters-most commonly to mothers. Even so, disclosure became less likely as perceptions of procedural injustice, social stigma, and legal cynicism increased. Among youth who disclosed stops but not to parents, disclosure to friends was common (61.18%), whereas disclosure to nonparent adults was not. Enhanced training for teachers, school counselors, and community leaders may improve youth outcomes by facilitating additional opportunities for disclosure and support.
Psychometric Evaluation of a Barriers to Mental Health Treatment Questionnaire for Latina/o/x Caregivers of Children and Adolescents.

Knowledge regarding barriers faced by Latina/o/x caregivers in accessing youth mental health services (MHS) have largely depended on resource intensive interview-based assessments. We evaluated a questionnaire for Latina/o/x caregivers of youths that presents a briefer and more feasible alternative. We conducted a psychometric evaluation of the Barriers to Treatment Questionnaire - Latina/o/x Caregivers (BTQ-LC) with a sample of 598 Latina/o/x caregivers from across the United States. Descriptive statistics and confirmatory factor analyses were used to identify common barriers to services, confirm the factor structure of the scale, and establish construct validity. Descriptive statistics suggest that not knowing where and how to access services, and normalization of youth psychopathology were the most frequently reported barriers among caregivers of youth with clinically elevated problems on the CBCL. Confirmatory factor analysis suggests that the BTQ-LC was best represented by a three-factor structure: (1) structural, (2) perceptions regarding mental health problems, and (3) services. Our finding suggest that the BTQ-LC could also be used as a single factor as fit indices ranged from acceptable to poor. BTQ-LC scales were all negatively correlated with the utilization of common youth MHS (i.e., psychological counseling, medical doctors, school professionals). The BTQ-LC represents an important step towards improving our understanding and assessment of barriers to services contributing to mental health disparities among Latina/o/x youths.
Erosion, Transportation and the Nature of the Maria

Rock dust appears to have been redistributed over the Moon by effects other than impact explosions. A core sample on Apollo 12 showed sharp and distinctive layers and was clearly unmixed. Surface transportation processes that deposit the dust very gently must have been at work. Orbiter pictures confirm that such surface creep has taken place on a very large scale.
Therapy of the lateral pelvic nodes in cervical carcinoma.

T HE importance of adequate therapy to the lymphatics of the lateral pelvic wall in patients wit,h carcinoma of the uterine cervix has long been acknowledged. During the decades covered by Dr. Kosmak’s editorship many studies have reconfirmed this1 and many techniques have been proposed to achieve control of the spreading carcinoma in the nodes of the lateral pelvis.? Taussig” employed surgical dissection of the lateral nodes together with radiation therapy for the central lesion, a suggestion which has been made again more recently by Kimbrough.4 The addition of lateral pelvic x-ray ports to provide increased side-wall dosage of irracliation has been tried hut is associated with an increased incidence of spontaneous fracture of the neck of the femur.” Transvaginally placed interstitial needles69 7 are intended to increase the dosage to these nodes by placing the sources of radioactivity in the neighborhood of the lateral wall. Sherman and his co-workers8 have proposed reaching this area by the paracervical injection into the tissues of colloidal suspensions of radioactive gold. The present paper discusses another approach to this problem. In 1951 Morton alld his associates” proposed the use of fine Nylon tubing as a carrier for multiple weak sources of radioactive cobalt. Such a unit constitutes a plastic and pliable “needle” which possesses unique characteristics as a container for radiation sources in interstitial therapy.l”j I1 This tubing can be so attenuated that it can be threaded into a surgical needle for sewing directly into the area to be treated. More recently, these Nylon “threads” with radioactive portions have become available commercially. While their application in this particular field has not been extensive, and no five-year results are available, the technical details of their use merit discussion as a potential approach to the therapy of the lateral pelvic nodes in carcinoma of t,he cervix. The Threads.-Fine cobalt wire (0.5 mm. diameter) is cut into lengths of one-third centimeter and activated so that each such .piece has a strength of 0.2 mc. These cobalt pieces, with aluminum spacers of the same size, are placed in Nylon tubing of 1.75 mm. outside diameter. When the active sections of such “threads” are placed parallel and at an interval of 1.0 cm. from each other a fielcl is created which yields about 1,000 gamma roentgens per day to the immediate area. Since the strength of such a field results from the cross-firing of multiple sources which are individually weak, it falls off
1 kWe sodium borohydride hydrogen generation system: Part II: Reactor modeling

Sodium borohydride (NaBH4) hydrogen storage systems offer many advantages for hydrogen storage applications. The physical processes inside a NaBH4 packed bed reactor involve multi-component and multi-phase flow and multi-mode heat and mass transfer. These processes are also coupled with reaction kinetics. To guide reactor design and optimization, a reactor model involving all of these processes is desired. A onedimensional numerical model in conjunction with the assumption of homogeneous catalysis is developed in this study. Two submodels have been created to simulate non-isothermal water evaporation processes and pressure drop of two-phase flow through the porous medium. The diffusion coefficient of liquid inside the porous catalyst pellets and the mass transfer coefficient of water vapor are estimated by fitting experimental data at one specified condition and have been verified at other conditions. The predicted temperature profiles, fuel conversion, relative humidity and pressure drops match experimental data reasonably well. © 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Secondary Health Conditions Among Males With Duchenne Or Becker Muscular Dystrophy (DBMD) (S36.003)

Objective: To describe the frequency of secondary health conditions among males with Duchenne or Becker muscular dystrophy (DBMD). Background: The full spectrum of secondary health conditions in males with DBMD is unknown. A few studies suggest a higher than expected prevalence of a sub-set of conditions such as autism spectrum disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, constipation, and gastroesophageal reflux. Design/Methods: Caregivers of males with DBMD were identified through MD STARnet, a population-based surveillance system for DBMD in five states. Participants (n=209) were asked whether their child was ever diagnosed with any of twenty-nine conditions. Responses were categorized by affected male’s age, ambulatory status, and steroid-use. The responses were compared to those of the National Survey of Children’s Health (NSCH) when the questions were equivalent. Chi-square or Fisher’s exact test was used to analyze associations between categorical variables. The differences in means of continuous variables were evaluated with T-tests. Results: Males with DBMD aged >17 years were more likely to have depression (p<0.001), gastroesophageal reflux/heartburn (p= 0.029), and kidney stones (p<0.001) than males aged ≤17 years. Depression (p= 0.001), anxiety (p= 0.006), ADD/ADHD (0.022), gastroesophageal reflux/heartburn (p= 0.006), kidney stones (p= 0.007), trouble urinating (p= 0.010), and high blood pressure (p= 0.021) were more common among non-ambulatory males than ambulatory males. Cataracts were more common in long-term steroid users (蠅6months) than short-term (<6 months) or non-users (p<0.001). In comparison to NSCH participants, MD STARnet males had a higher percentage of behavioral and/or conduct problems, developmental delay, and intellectual disability (p<0.001). Conclusion: Males with DBMD have a higher frequency of behavioral and/or cognitive issues than NSCH participants. Certain conditions occur more frequently in males >17 years and those who are non-ambulatory. Identification of these secondary conditions can ultimately improve clinical care and direct future research in this population. Disclosure: Dr. Napoliello has nothing to disclose. Dr. Street has nothing to disclose. Dr. Caspers has nothing to disclose. Dr. Ciafaloni has nothing to disclose. Dr. Cunniff has received research support from Genzyme Corp. Dr. Donnelly has nothing to disclose. Dr. Fox has nothing to disclose. Dr. James has nothing to disclose. Dr. Oleszek has nothing to disclose. Dr. Westfield has nothing to disclose.
Determining position around an asteroid using communication relays and trilateration

In this paper we consider the possibility of using a communications system that is operating between probes on the surface of an asteroid and an orbiting satellite to determine their relative spatial positions. This is accomplished by measuring the round trip communication delay between the orbiter and various surface probes to estimate distance and, thus, the position. By measuring the time it takes for a signal to be transmitted from the spacecraft, received by the surface probe, and then retransmitted back to the spacecraft, it is possible to get reasonable distance estimates without the need for high-precision, synchronized clocks on the surface probes. From these distance measurements, position can be determined using trilateration—the same basic technique behind the earth-based GPS system.
A Simple Distributed Particle Swarm Optimization for Dynamic and Noisy Environments

In this paper, we present a Simple Distributed Particle Swarm Optimization (SDPSO) algorithm that can be used to track the optimal solution in a dynamic and noisy environment. The classic PSO algorithm lacks the ability to track changing optimum in a dynamic environment. Several approaches have been investigated to enhance the PSO algorithm’s ability in dynamic environments. However, in dealing with dynamic environments, these approaches have lost PSO’s original strengths of decentralized control and ease of implementation. The SDPSO algorithm proposed in this paper maintains these classic PSO features as well as provides the optimum result tracking capability in dynamic environments. In this research, the DF1 multimodal dynamic environment generator proposed by Morrison and De Jong is used to evaluate the classic PSO, SDPSO and other two adaptive PSOs.
Reasoning with Contexts

Contexts are sets of formulas used to manage the assumptions that arise in the course of a mathematical deduction or calculation. This paper describes some techniques for symbolic computation that are dependent on using contexts, and are implemented in IMPS, an Interactive Mathematical Proof System.
Chapter 5 - Advances in Quantum Dot Structures

The chapter presents a discussion on advances in quantum dot structures. Semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) represent one of the rigorous ongoing research areas for next generation optoelectronic devices. The strong interest in low-dimensional semiconductor structures originates from their exciting electronic properties that have an important impact on the performance of high-speed electronic and photonic devices and, moreover, on the development of novel device concepts such as the single electron transistor. The quantum dots, known as quantum boxes, are nanometer-scale islands in which electrons and holes are confined in three-dimensional potential boxes. They are expected to exhibit a zero-dimensional, S-function density of states and are able to quantize electrons free motion by trapping it in a quasi-zero-dimensional potential confinement. Because of these peculiar characteristics, quantum dots are expected to have superior characteristics for device performance in semiconductor lasers, detectors, and modulators. Recently, first breakthrough for growth of high quality highly strained epitaxial layers since the Stranski–Krastanow growth mode was rediscovered during highly strained layer epitaxy; it is called self-assembled quantum dots. To explain three-dimensional quantum confinement, the quantum mechanical problem of the motion of a particle in a box was recalled. This problem turned out to be very complicated, because all the possibilities of electronhole Coulomb interaction—valence band structure or nonparabolic bands—were considered.
Global time-dependent chorus maps from low-Earth-orbit electron precipitation and Van Allen Probes data

Substorm injected electrons (several–100 s keV) produce whistler-mode chorus waves that are thought to have a major impact on the radiation belts by causing both energization and loss of relativistic electrons in the outer belt. High-altitude measurements, such as those from the Van Allen Probes, provide detailed wave measurements at a few points in the magnetosphere. But physics-based models of radiation-belt dynamics require knowledge of the global distribution of chorus waves. We demonstrate that time-dependent, global distributions of near-equatorial chorus wave intensities can be inferred from low-Earth-orbit (LEO) measurements of precipitating low-energy electrons. We compare in situ observations of near-equatorial chorus waves with LEO observations of precipitating electrons and derive a heuristic formula that relates, quantitatively, electron precipitation fluxes to chorus wave intensities. Finally, we demonstrate how that formula can be applied to LEO precipitation measurements and in situ Van Allen Probes wave measurements to provide global, data-driven inputs for radiation belt models.
Robert Blelloch Named ISSCR's 2011 Outstanding Young Investigator

Robert Blelloch from the University of California, San Francisco earned the 2011 ISSCR Outstanding Young Investigator Award for his exceptional achievements as an early-career stem cell researcher.
H2O2 INDUCES DELAYED HYPEREXCITABILITY IN NUCLEUS TRACTUS SOLITARII NEURONS

Hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) is a stable reactive oxygen species and potent neuromodulator of cellular and synaptic activity. Centrally, endogenous H₂O₂ is elevated during bouts of hypoxia-reoxygenation, a variety of disease states, and aging. The nucleus tractus solitarii (nTS) is the central termination site of visceral afferents for homeostatic reflexes and contributes to reflex alterations during these conditions. We determined the extent to which H₂O₂ modulates synaptic and membrane properties in nTS neurons in rat brainstem slices. Stimulation of the tractus solitarii (which contains the sensory afferent fibers) evoked synaptic currents that were not altered by 10-500 μM H₂O₂. However, 500 μM H₂O₂ modulated several intrinsic membrane properties of nTS neurons, including a decrease in input resistance (R(i)), hyperpolarization of resting membrane potential (RMP) and action potential (AP) threshold (THR), and an initial reduction in AP discharge to depolarizing current. H₂O₂ increased conductance of barium-sensitive potassium currents, and block of these currents ablated H₂O₂-induced changes in RMP, Ri and AP discharge. Following washout of H₂O₂ AP discharge was enhanced due to depolarization of RMP and a partially maintained hyperpolarization of THR. Hyperexcitability persisted with repeated H₂O₂ exposure. H₂O₂ effects on RMP and THR were ablated by intracellular administration of the antioxidant catalase, which was immunohistochemically identified in neurons throughout the nTS. Thus, H₂O₂ initially reduces excitability of nTS neurons that is followed by sustained hyperexcitability, which may play a profound role in cardiorespiratory reflexes.
Perceived needs for geriatric education by medical students, internal medicine residents and faculty.

CONTEXT: Traditional methods of setting curricular guidelines using experts or consensus panels may miss important areas of knowledge, skills, and attitudes that need to be addressed in the training of medical students and residents.
Foreign Language in the Residence Hall

AS OF September, 1964, Western Michigan University officially put into operation a multiple audio distribution system (M.A.D.). This system presently exists in four residence halls which are electronically linked to the university broadcasting station. Located on campus, it maintains a battery of self-automated rewind tape recorders, capable of twenty-four hour operation. The network of wires which links the residence halls with the control center