cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Hidden failures in electric power systems

Hidden failures in equipment are those failures which occur at random and that do not lead to any discernible change in the state of the network and, therefore, remain undetected. Although hidden failures can occur in any equipment, the hidden failures in protective equipment have attracted a good deal of attention in recent years. Admittedly these failures are rare but, when the power system is stressed, their effects on the power system can be catastrophic. This paper examines the mechanisms of hidden failures of the protection system, their role in major power system disturbances, and concludes with lessons learned from an examination of past system blackouts.
Investigating the Effects of Diluting Solutions and Trace Metal Contamination on Aggregation Characteristics of Silica-Based ILD CMP Slurries

One of the major drawbacks to CMP is the tendency for abrasive particles in slurries to form aggregates, which have the potential to cause defects on wafer surfaces. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the mechanisms by which aggregates are formed so appropriate metrology can be implemented that will identify defect-causing slurries before they are used in the fab. Single particle optical sensing (SPOS) techniques are commonly used to obtain large particle counts (LPC) for slurries. The SPOS technique requires slurry dilution before measuring and the instrument continues to dilute the sample during a measurement. Other techniques that can be used to characterize slurries are particle size distribution by static light scattering (SLS), mean particle size (MPS) by dynamic light scattering (DLS), and zeta potential (ZP) measurements. Like SPOS, all of these techniques require that slurry be diluted prior to measuring and the current method for doing so is with UPW. Diluted slurry demonstrates significantly different ionic strength than the undiluted slurry, and electrolyte concentration has been shown to affect aggregation and electric double layer characteristics of silica particles 2–6. An alternative diluting solution was formulated that simulates the conductivity and pH of the original slurry to mimic the conditions to which particles are actually exposed. It is crucial to identify the metrology that is compatible with high pH solutions and the impact of these solutions on measurements. A second objective of the study is to examine aluminum contamination in slurries. To date, the aluminum content of silica-based CMP slurries and effects on performance have not been well studied. Aluminum is known as a potential contaminant during abrasive and/or slurry manufacturing processes. Known defect free slurries were doped with aluminum and effects on particle aggregation were observed. Specifically, it is of interest to identify the metrology and techniques that may be useful (and those that are not) in monitoring aluminum induced aggregation.
Hypochondriasis or panic disorder

When no organic etiology can be determined for recurrent somatic symptoms, hypochondriasis might be the logical conclusion. However, the primary care physician should be alerted to the possibility of panic disorder if the patient presents with recurrent panic attacks, concern, and worry about having another attack and its consequences, and avoidance of certain places, situations, or activities which comprise the diagnostic criteria for panic disorder. A comprehensive treatment program for panic disorder includes the integration of pharmacotherapy (SSRIs and benzodiazepines), cognitive-behavior therapy, and psychotherapy. In most cases, the primary care physician can successfully treat panic disorder.
Setosphaeria prolata, the ascigerous state of Exserohilum prolatum

SUMMARY The new genus Exscrohilum is established for species formerly included in Bipolaris (graminicolous Helminthosporium spp.) in which the conidial hilum is distinctly protuberant. The ascigerous states of Exserohilum spp. are placed in the new genus Setosphaeria, which is segregated from Keissleriella (= Trichometasphaeria) on the basis of lack of a clypeus, lysigenous development of the ostiole, occurrence of setae on the perithecial wall, the absence of periphyses in the ostiole, and the hyphomycetous conidial states. A new species, E. prolatum, and its ascigerous state, S. prolata, are described. Exserohilum prolatum was isolated from corn seed and leaves but is also pathogenic to several other gramineous species. It is heterothallic and produces ascocarps readily in culture. The following new combinations are made: Exserohilum rostratum (Drechs.) Leonard & Suggs, E. halodes (Drechs.) Leonard & Suggs, E. holmii (Luttrell) Leonard & Suggs, E. pedicellatum (Henry) Leonard & Suggs, E. monoceras (Drechs.) Leonard & Suggs, E. frumentaceum (Mitra) Leonard & Suggs, E. turcicum (Pass.) Leonard & Suggs, Setosphaeria holmii (Luttrell) Leonard & Suggs, S. pedicellata (Nelson) Leonard & Suggs, S. turcica (Luttrell) Leonard & Suggs.
Epigenetics and Memory

Interest in the role of ‘epigenetic’ modifications in learning and memory processes has escalated rapidly in recent years, due, in part, to the promise of answering long-standing basic science questions about how memories are acquired, stored and maintained over time in the brain. Epigenetic mechanisms, including modifications of chromatin structure and DNA methylation, have long been studied in the context of developmental biology. Recent studies, however, have shown that many of these same mechanisms are conserved in the adult nervous system, where they continue to influence gene expression in the context of long-lasting behavioral change. Within the field of memory research, it has recently been suggested that environmentally-driven alterations in epigenetic processes may represent an ideal candidate mechanism for long-term memory storage and maintenance. In this chapter, I review the role of both chromatin modifications and DNA methylation in several different forms of mammalian memory and associated synaptic plasticity, including a discussion of their involvement in distinct memory-related processes such as consolidation, reconsolidation and extinction. The study of epigenetics in the context of memory holds potential promise for the treatment of neurological conditions that are characterized by memory impairment, as well as psychological conditions such as drug addiction and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that are characterized by persistent unwanted memories.
Introduction to Atmospheric Chemistry: Cloud and precipitation chemistry

Early studies of atmospheric chemistry emphasized trace gases and homogeneous gas-phase reactions. However, in the latter part of the twentieth century, increasing attention was given to atmospheric aerosols (see Chapter 6), chemical reactions on aerosol surfaces (see Chapter 10), and the role of clouds in atmospheric chemistry. In this chapter we consider how clouds remove particles and gases from the air, some of the chemical reactions that can occur within cloud droplets, and how these processes modify the chemical composition of cloud water and precipitation, as well as some other important properties of clouds. Finally, we will discuss the effects of cloud processing on modifying atmospheric aerosols. Overview We will organize our discussion of cloud and precipitation chemistry around the processes illustrated schematically in Figure 7.1. Clouds form when air becomes slightly supersaturated with respect to liquid water (or in some cases with respect to ice). The most common means by which this is achieved in the atmosphere is through the ascent of air parcels, which results in the expansion and cooling of the air below its dew point. When the air becomes slightly supersaturated with respect to water (by a few tenths of 1%), water vapor begins to condense onto some of the articles in the air to form a cloud of small water droplets. This process, by which a portion of the atmospheric aerosol (called cloud condensation nuclei , or CCN) nucleate the formation of cloud droplets, and are thereby incorporated into cloud water as insoluble and soluble components, is referred to as nucleation scavenging .
Critical factors for bone health in women across the age span: how important is muscle mass?

OBJECTIVES/DESIGN: This cross-sectional study of 113 healthy white women, 20-88 years of age, evaluated relationships between bone mineral density (BMD), body composition, calcium (Ca) intake, and physical activity. The analysis was performed in the entire cohort and in groups divided by reproductive/menopausal status (premenopausal, perimenopausal, early postmenopausal, and late postmenopausal). METHODS: BMD and body composition were measured with Lunar DPX-MD densitometer using specialized software for total body, spine, femur, and forearm. Ca intake from food and supplements was assessed by a food frequency questionnaire. Past physical activity and past and present walking were assessed only in the older cohort using modified version of the Allied Dunbar National Fitness Survey for Older Adults. RESULTS: The results showed significant reduction of both total body BMD and lean body mass (LBM) of 13% and 12%, respectively, with age. LBM was the strongest determinant of BMD in various skeletal sites in the entire cohort and groups. Ca was positively associated with BMD of various regions of hip in the entire cohort and in the youngest and oldest subjects (r ranging from 0.32-0.56, P <.05, in simple regression), but not in perimenopausal and early postmenopausal women. Past activity (sports and recreation) was positively associated with BMD in total body, spine, hip, and forearm (r ranging from 0.26-0.37, P <.05). Various modes of present walking were positively associated with BMD in regions of femur and forearm. CONCLUSIONS: These results reveal the importance of lean tissue acting independently on bone at different skeletal sites in women across age groups as well as the positive effects on BMD of Ca in the youngest and oldest women and life-long engagement in physical activity in older women.
Platelet malondialdehyde in cardiovascular disease: effect of prosthetic heart valves and cardioactive drugs on production.

Malondialdehyde (MDA), a product of platelet lipid peroxidation, was measured in human platelet-rich plasma. Levels of 3.19 n moles/10(9) platelets /+- 0.40 S.E. in 11 patients with prosthetic heart valves were elevated (p < 0.25) compared to 17 normal subjects (2.09 /+- 0.13 n moles/10(9) platelets). Reduced production (1.44 /+- 0.28 n moles/10(9) platelets, p < 0.5) was found in 10 patients with unstable angina. Normal levels were found in patients with mitral stenosis, cardiomyopathy or hypertension. Usual serum levels of drugs used in cardiac treatment reduced MDA levels as follows: acetaminophen, 47% (p < .01); aspirin, 58% (p < .05); furosemide, 32.6% (p < .005), and sulfinpyrazone, 41% (p < .05). Digoxin, dipyridamole, heparin, hydrochlorothiazide, lidocaine, nitroglycerin, procainamide, propranolol, quinidine, or warfarin had no significant effect at therapeutic concentrations. None of the drugs explained the enhanced production in patients with prosthetic valves while enhanced production in patients with prosthetic valves while analgesic therapy could explain the decreased levels in other cardiacs. The half-time of platelet survival, measured by suppression of malondialdehyde production, was 3.2 /+- 0.24 days in 9 normal subjects but could not be measured reliably in most patients because of multiple drug therapies. We conclude that the blood platelets of patients with prosthetic heart valves differ from those of normal subjects in their capacity to release malondialdehyde after stimulation with n-ethylmaleimide. Additionally, we find that inhibition of malondialdehyde production by several pharmacologic agents limits the usefulness of this method for the measurement of platelet survival in cardiac patients.
Original paper: Diagnosis of bacterial spot of tomato using spectral signatures

Ultraviolet, visible, and near-infrared reflectance spectroscopy was used to determine the disease severity of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) leaves infected with Xanthomonas perforans, the causal agent of bacterial leaf spot of tomato. Chemometric methods were used to identify significant wavelengths and create spectral-based prediction models. Significant wavelengths were identified through analysis of the B-matrix from partial least squares (PLS) regression, analysis of a correlation coefficient spectrum, and through the use of a stepwise multiple linear regression (SMLR) procedure. These analysis methods revealed several significant regions wavelengths and produced predictive models of disease severity based on absorbance spectra. The best model predicted the disease severity of the validation data set with a root mean square difference (RMSD) of 4.9% and a coefficient of determination (R^2) of 0.82. The results of this initial study indicate the potential for the use of spectral technology to detect bacterial leaf spot of tomato in the field.
Sinai: Egypt’s Linchpin, Gaza’s Lifeline, Israel’s Nightmare

Mohannad Sabry is a well-known Egyptian journalist, whose in-depth reporting on the Sinai Peninsula offers anyone interested in the future of the Middle East a detailed description of the politics ...
Bayesian data fusion for smart environments with heterogenous sensors

Smart environments refer to buildings or locations equipped with a multitude of sensors and processing mechanisms for improved security, efficiency or functionality. Often, these sensors serve distinct purposes and their data may be processed separately by entirely separate systems. We argue that integrated processing of data available from multiple types of sensors can benefit a variety of decision making processes. For example, smart building sensors such as occupancy or temperature sensors used for lighting or heating efficiency can benefit the security system, or vice versa. Recent industry standards in sensor networks such as ZigBee make it possible to collect and aggregate data from multiple, heterogeneous sensors efficiently. However, integrated information processing with a diverse set of sensor data is still a challenge. We provide an information processing scheme that offers data fusion for multiple sensors such as temperature sensors or motion detectors and visual sensors such as security cameras. The broader goal of multi-sensor data fusion in this context is to enhance security systems, improve energy efficiency by supporting the decision making process based on relevant and accurate information gathered from different sensors. In particular, we investigate a major data fusion technique, Bayesian network, and present a simulation tool for a "smart environment". In addition, we discuss the potential impact of data fusion on the processes of decision or detection, estimation, association, and uncertainty management.
Use of Mobile Health Technology in the Prevention and Management of Diabetes Mellitus

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally, with diabetes being an independent risk factor. Adequate diabetes management has proven to be resource-intensive, requiring frequent lab work, primary care and specialist visits, and time-consuming record-keeping by the patient and care team. New mobile health (mHealth) technologies have enhanced how diabetes is managed and care is delivered. While more recent work has investigated mHealth devices as complementary tools in behavioral interventions for diabetes prevention and management, little is still known about the effectiveness of mHealth technology as stand-alone intervention tools for reducing diabetes risk. In addition, more work is needed to identify the role of mHealth technology in treating vulnerable populations to ameliorate cardiovascular health disparities. With advances in mobile health technology development for diabetes prevention and management, these modalities will likely play an increasingly prominent role in reducing cardiometabolic risk for the US population.
A comparison of unsupervised segmentation parameter optimization approaches using moderate- and high-resolution imagery

Unsupervised segmentation optimization methods have been proposed to aid in selecting an “optimal” set of scale parameters quickly and objectively for object-based image analysis. The goal of this ...
Dietary Supplement Use in Older Adults

Dietary supplement (DS) use among older adults in the USA is prevalent, and thus, healthcare professionals need to be aware of how to best advise this population. The purpose of this review is to highlight key considerations for assessing the potential benefits and risks of supplementation and for evaluating the quality, safety, and efficacy of supplement use specific to older adults. Nutrient deficiencies and risk of malnutrition among older adults can result from decreased appetite with aging, poor dietary intake, and nutrient depletions from medications (among many other factors). Nutrient deficiencies are common in this population and could have a negative impact on neurological and cardiovascular health, mood, immune function, vision, blood sugar control, and bone strength. In certain circumstances, older adults may benefit from supplementation. However, risk of choking and concomitant use of DS and prescription medications (which can increase risk of drug-nutrient interactions) are concerns with supplementation. Decision-making around appropriateness of supplementation for older adults should be determined by nutrition screening and based on individual need. Healthcare providers, especially registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs), should work with patients to identify quality products and benefits/risks of supplement use.
From evolutionary theory to philosophy of history: Raymond Aron and the crisis of French neo-transformism

Well into the 1940s, many French biologists rejected both Mendelian genetics and Darwinism in favour of neo-transformism, the claim that evolution proceeds by the inheritance of acquired characteri...
Classification and Epidemiologic Aspects of Acute Liver Failure

Acute liver failure is a rare condition with high short-term morbidity and mortality. The most widely accepted definition is an abnormality in coagulation with any degree of encephalopathy in a patient without cirrhosis and an illness duration of less than 26 weeks. Multiple classifications systems are currently in use to help categorize the condition. This article reviews the most commonly used systems. The epidemiologic aspects of the disease are also reviewed, including incidence, prevalence, demographics, geographic distribution, and racial and cultural factors and are discussed for the various subtypes of acute liver failure.
Temporal and regional variability in the skin microbiome of humpback whales along the Western Antarctic Peninsula

The skin is the first line of defense between an animal and its environment, and disruptions in skin-associated microorganisms can be linked to an animal's health and nutritional state. To better understand the skin microbiome of large whales, high-throughput sequencing of partial small subunit rRNA genes was used to study the skin-associated bacteria of 89 seemingly healthy humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) sampled along the Western Antarctic Peninsula (WAP) during early (2010) and late (2013) austral summers. Six core groups of bacteria were present in 93% or more of all humpback skin samples. A shift was observed in the average relative abundances of these core bacteria over time, with the emergence of four additional core groups of bacteria that corresponded to a decrease in water temperature, possibly caused by season- or foraging-related changes in skin biochemistry that influenced microbial growth, or other temporal factors. The skin microbiome differed between whales sampled at several regional locations along the WAP, suggesting that environmental factors or population may also influence the whale skin microbiome. Overall, the skin microbiome of humpback whales appears to provide insight into animal- and environment-related factors and may serve as a useful indicator for animal health or ecosystem alterations.IMPORTANCE The microbiomes of wild animals are currently understudied but may provide information about animal health and/or animal-environment interactions. In the largest sampling of any marine mammal microbiome, this study demonstrates conservation in the skin microbiome of 89 seemingly healthy humpback whales sampled in the Western Antarctic Peninsula, with shifts in the bacterial community composition related to temporal and regional variability. This study is important because it suggests that the skin microbiome of humpback whales could provide insight into animal nutritional or seasonal/environment-related factors, which are becoming increasingly important to recognize due to unprecedented rates of climate change and anthropogenic impact on ocean ecosystems.
On Selecting the Normal Population with the Largest Absolute Mean

The problem of selecting the normal population with largest absolute mean is considered. An alternative procedure based on the absolute values of the sample medians and investigate its efficiency relative to Rizvi’s means procedure has been studied.
Pattern of Daily Steps is Associated with Weight Loss: Secondary Analysis from the Step-Up Randomized Trial.

OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to examine the association between the amount, intensity, and pattern of steps·day-1 with weight loss. METHODS Participants (N = 260; age = 42.8 ± 8.9 y; BMI = 32.8 ± 3.5 kg/m2 ) completed an 18-month weight-loss intervention that included a calorie-restricted diet and prescribed physical activity. Participants were categorized by 18-month weight loss as weight gain (GAIN), weight loss of 0% to < 5% (WL < 5%), 5% to < 10% (WL < 10%), or ≥ 10% (WL ≥ 10%). Steps·day-1 were measured at 0, 6, 12, and 18 months and defined as total steps·day-1 , total steps·day-1 of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) (≥3 metabolic equivalents) in bouts of ≥ 10 minutes (BOUT-MVPA), MVPA in bouts of < 10 minutes (NON-BOUT-MVPA), or non-MVPA steps·day-1 (NON-MVPA). RESULTS There was a weight-loss category by time interaction (P < 0.0001) for total and BOUT-MVPA steps·day-1 . The total steps·day-1 at 18 months were WL ≥ 10% = 9,822 (95% CI: 9,073-10,571), WL < 10% = 8,612 (7,613-9,610), WL < 5% = 7,802 (6,782-8,822), and GAIN = 7,801 (6,549-9,053). BOUT-MVPA steps·day-1 at 18 months were WL ≥ 10% = 3,482 (2,982-3,981), WL < 10% = 1,949 (1,269-2,629), WL < 5% = 1,735 (1,045-2,426), and GAIN = 1,075 (210-1,941). Participants were also categorized based on achieving ≥ 10% weight loss at either 6 or 18 months, and a similar pattern was observed. CONCLUSIONS These findings show that 10,000 steps·day-1 , with approximately 3,500 steps·day-1 performed as BOUT-MVPA, are associated with enhanced weight loss in a behavioral intervention.
Do Agents Used for Epidural Analgesia Have Antimicrobial Properties

Background and Objectives. Local anesthetics inhibit bacteria growth in culture although this effect diminishes as the concentration of the drug is reduced. The antimicrobial properties of opioids are unknown. This study was designed to determine the ability of lidocaine and bupivacaine, with or without fentanyl or sufentanil, to inhibit bacteria growth in culture at concentrations typically used to provide analgesia. Methods. Potential bacteria pathogens were cultured in agar media containing: agar alone, 2%, 1.5%, and 1% lidocaine, 0.5%, 0.25%, and 0.125% bupivacaine, 0.125% bupivacaine + fentanyl 2 mcgs/mL, 0.125% bupivacaine + sufentanil 0.3 mcgs/mL, and fentanyl 5 mcgs/mL, fentanyl 2 mcgs/mL or sufentanil 0.3 mcgs/mL. Organisms were deemed sensitive to the study agent if no growth was apparent after incubation for 24 hours. Results. Both lidocaine and bupivacaine significantly reduced bacteria growth at all concentrations studied compared to the growth observed in agar alone (P Conclusions. Since the growth in culture of common pathogens, especially S. aureus, is not inhibited as the concentration of local anesthetic is reduced, the local anesthetics tested are unlikely to help prevent epidural-catheter-related infection due to common pathogens. More study is necessary to determine if local anesthetics help prevent infection from less common pathogens in patients at increased risk for infectious complications.
Sibling Helping Relationships

Over the life span and in most cultures, siblings carry out a great variety of helping and supportive acts for one another. Such acts range from caregiving and teaching in childhood to exchange of goods and services in adulthood to social support and caregiving in old age (Weisner, 1989b).
Immune Response to Streptococcal Antigens In Rheumatic Fever

Acute rheumatic fever still represents the one only of the connective tissue disorders in which a basic causative agent has been clearly identified. We know that rheumatoid arthritis is commonly associated with the production of rheumatoid factors and a positive latex fixation test and that systemic lupus erythematosus represents a generalized often severe disease of connective tissues associated with anti-DNA antibodies, but in neither of the two latter disorders has the original inciting agent been defined. By contrast, it has been firmly established that acute rheumatic fever results from prior pharyngeal infection by (i-hemolytic group A streptococci and that each subsequent attack is set off by throat reinfection with group A streptococci (Anderson et al.,1948; Wannamaker, 1959).
B-L Gauge Models

The standard low energy electroweak and strong interaction gauge group SU(3)C x SU(2)L x U(1)Y, broken spontaneously by a Higgs doublet, has been highly successful in the low energy region (≤ 100 GeV) [1]. On the other hand, the SU(5) gauge group, the lowest rank simple group containing SU(3)C x SU(2)L x U(1)Y, appears to be in serious trouble [2]. The failure to observe proton decay at the level predicted by SU(5) GUT throw doubt on the existence of the “great desert” between 102GeV and 1015GeV and leaves room for intermediate mass scales of various types. Within this context, and for other reasons (see below), I wish to point out in this talk some attractive features of those groups that have B-L as a generator (and which I call B-L gauge groups).
A priori and a posterior error estimate of new weak Galerkin finite element methods for second order elliptic interface problems on polygonal meshes

Abstract In this paper, we present a posteriori error estimate of a new weak Galerkin (WG) finite element method for the second order elliptic interface problems. Instead of introducing the local weak derivatives on each element, the bilinear form is computed through the inner product of traditional defined derivatives. The proposed numerical scheme is symmetric and positive definite, and can be applied to polygonal meshes. In the a posteriori error estimate, we construct a error indicator that can be applied to polygonal meshes or meshes with hanging nodes. The reliability and efficiency of the designed error estimator have been proved in this work. Extensive numerical tests are performed to validate our algorithm. These results demonstrate the effectiveness of the adaptive mesh refinement guided by the proposed error estimator.
DeltaMass: Automated Detection and Visualization of Mass Shifts in Proteomic Open-Search Results

Routine identification of thousands of proteins in a single LC-MS experiment has long become the norm. With these vast amounts of data, more rigorous treatment of modified forms of peptides becomes possible. "Open search", a protein database search with a large precursor ion mass tolerance window, is becoming a popular method to evaluate possible sets of post-translational and chemical modifications in samples. The extraction of statistical information about the modification from peptide search results requires additional effort and data processing, such as recalibration of masses and accurate detection of precursors in MS1 signals. Here we present a software tool, DeltaMass, which performs kernel-density-based estimation of observed mass shifts and allows for the detection of poorly resolved mass deltas. The software also maps observed mass shifts to known modifications from public databases such as UniMod and augments them with additionally generated possible chemical changes to the molecule. Its interactive graphical interface provides an effective option for the visual interrogation of the data and the identification of potentially interesting mass shifts or unusual artifacts for subsequent analysis. However, the program can also be used in fully automated command-line mode to generate mass-shift peak lists as well.
Adipokine FABP4 integrates energy stores and counterregulatory metabolic responses

Although counterregulatory hormones and mediators of the fight-or-flight responses are well defined at many levels, how energy stores per se are integrated into this system remains an enigmatic question. Recent years have seen the adipose tissue become a central focus for mediating intracellular signaling and communication through the release of a variety of bioactive lipids and substrates, as well as various adipokines. A critical integration node among these mediators and responses is controlled by FA binding protein 4 (FABP4), also known as adipocyte protein 2 (aP2), which is highly expressed in adipose tissue and functions as a lipid chaperone protein. Recently, it was demonstrated that FABP4 is a secreted hormone that has roles in maintaining glucose homeostasis, representing a key juncture facilitating communication between energy-storage systems and distant organs to respond to life-threatening situations. However, chronic engagement of FABP4 under conditions of immunometabolic stress, such as obesity, exacerbates a number of immunometabolic diseases, including diabetes, asthma, cancer, and atherosclerosis. In both preclinical mouse models and humans, levels of circulating FABP4 have been correlated with metabolic disease incidence, and reducing FABP4 levels or activity is associated with improved metabolic health. In this review, we will discuss the intriguing emerging biology of this protein, including potential therapeutic options for targeting circulating FABP4.
Focus Group Research: An Intentional Strategy for Applied Group Research?

Focus groups are an established mechanism for data collection across qualitative, mixed method, and quantitative methodologies (Pearson & Vossler, 2016). Although employed differently within each r...
Decouplings for surfaces in R4

Abstract We prove a sharp decoupling for nondegenerate surfaces in R 4 . This puts the progress in [1] on the Lindelof hypothesis into a more general perspective.
Measurement and Instrumentation for Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Students

Measurement and Instrumentation fundamentals are introduced to electrical and mechanical engineering students via unique joint course for Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Programs of Purdue University at Fort Wayne Campus. The course has a laboratory component that engages students with practice and illustrates how to apply theory. The students are grouped to conduct experiments in a multidisciplinary format. It has been observed that this type of unique joint course motivates students to solve engineering problems from different perspectives and improves teamwork.
Silicon Effects on Resistance of St. Augustinegrass to Southern Chinch Bugs and Plant Disease

Silicon (Si) is the second most common element on earth, but it is not considered an essential element for plant growth. However, a growing body of evidence has shown that Si can enhance plant resistance to insect pests. This 5-page fact sheet reports the results of a study to determine if silicon applications to St. Augustinegrass varieties increase the silicon in the plants and how this increased silicon affects development and survival of southern chinch bugs as well as development of plant diseases. Written by Alan L. Wright, Ron Cherry, Huangjun Lu, and Pamela Roberts, and published by the UF Department of Soil and Water Science, September 2013. http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ss589
Vitamin A Supplementation during Suckling and Postweaning Periods Attenuates the Adverse Metabolic Effects of Maternal High-Fat Diet Consumption in Sprague-Dawley Rats

Background Vitamin A (VA) has been demonstrated to be a regulator of adipose tissue (AT) development in adult obese models. However, little is known about the effect of VA on obesity-associated developmental and metabolic conditions in early life. Objectives We aimed to assess the effects of dietary VA supplementation during suckling and postweaning periods on the adiposity and metabolic health of neonatal and weanling rats from mothers consuming a high-fat diet (HFD). Methods Pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats were fed a normal-fat diet (NFD; 25% fat; n = 2) or an HFD (50% fat; n = 2), both with 2.6 mg VA/kg. Upon delivery, half of the rat mothers were switched to diets with supplemented VA at 129 mg/kg, whereas the other half remained at 2.6 mg VA/kg. Four groups of rat pups were designated as NFD, NFD + VA, HFD, and HFD + VA, respectively. At postnatal day (P)14, P25, and P35, pups (n = 4 or 3/group) were killed. Body weight (BW), visceral white AT (WAT) mass, brown AT (BAT) mass, uncoupling protein 1 mRNA expression in BAT, serum glucose, lipids, adipokines, and inflammatory biomarkers, as well as serum and AT redox status were assessed. Results Rat pups in the HFD group exhibited significantly higher BW, WAT mass, and serum glucose and leptin but reduced BAT mass compared with the NFD group. Without affecting the dietary intake, supplementing the HFD with VA significantly reduced the BW and WAT mass of pups but increased the BAT mass, significantly lowered the systemic and WAT oxidative stress, and modulated serum adipokines and lipids to some extent. Conclusions VA supplementation during suckling and postweaning periods attenuated metabolic perturbations caused by excessive fat intake. Supplementing maternal or infant obesogenic diets with VA or establishing a higher RDA of VA for specific populations should be studied further for managing overweight/obesity in early life.
Quantifying tensile forces at cell–cell junctions with a DNA-based fluorescent probe

Cells are physically contacting with each other. Direct and precise quantification of forces at cell–cell junctions is still challenging. Herein, we have developed a DNA-based ratiometric fluorescent probe, termed DNAMeter, to quantify intercellular tensile forces. These lipid-modified DNAMeters can spontaneously anchor onto live cell membranes. The DNAMeter consists of two self-assembled DNA hairpins of different force tolerance. Once the intercellular tension exceeds the force tolerance to unfold a DNA hairpin, a specific fluorescence signal will be activated, which enables the real-time imaging and quantification of tensile forces. Using E-cadherin-modified DNAMeter as an example, we have demonstrated an approach to quantify, at the molecular level, the magnitude and distribution of E-cadherin tension among epithelial cells. Compatible with readily accessible fluorescence microscopes, these easy-to-use DNA tension probes can be broadly used to quantify mechanotransduction in collective cell behaviors.
Linked Entity Attribute Pair (LEAP): A Harmonization Framework for Data Pooling.

PURPOSEAs data-sharing projects become increasingly frequent, so does the need to map data elements between multiple classification systems. A generic, robust, shareable architecture will result in...
An HST Search for Substellar Companions in the Young Cluster IC 348

We present the results of a HST WFPC2 search for substellar companions to members of the star-forming cluster IC 348. The detection limits for companions to low-mass stars and brown dwarfs in the PC images are dm_791=0, 2.5, and 5.5 at separations of 0.05", 0.1", and 0.3", respectively, which correspond to M_2/M_1=1, 0.3, and 0.1 at 15, 30, and 90 AU. Meanwhile, for heavily saturated solar-mass primaries in the WFC images, the limits are dm_791=0 and 6 (M_2/M_1=1 and 0.04) at 0.2" and 0.4". The sky limiting magnitude of m_791~26 at large separations from a primary corresponds to a mass of ~0.006 M_sun. For the two faintest candidate companions appearing in these data, we have obtained 0.8-2.5 um spectra with SpeX at the IRTF, which we classify as cluster members with spectral types near M6, corresponding to masses of ~0.1 M_sun. Thus, no probable substellar companions are detected in this survey. The frequencies of stellar and substellar companions within 0.4-5" (120-1600 AU) from low-mass stars in IC 348 agree with measurements in the field. The factor of ~3-10 deficiency in brown dwarfs relative to stars among companions at wide separations in IC 348 and across the much larger range of separations probed for field stars is equal within the uncertainties to the deficiency in brown dwarfs in measurements of mass functions of isolated objects. In other words, when defined relative to stars, the brown dwarf "desert" among companions is also present among isolated objects, which is expected if stellar and substellar companions form in the same manner as their free-floating counterparts. Meanwhile, among the 14 substellar primaries in our survey of IC 348, no companions are detected. This absence of wide binary brown dwarfs is statistically consistent with the frequency of wide binary stars in IC 348.
Examining Clinical Teaching Observation Scores as a Measure of Preservice Teacher Quality

We draw on rich longitudinal data from one of the largest teacher education programs in Texas to examine the properties of rubric-based observational evaluations of preservice teachers (PSTs) durin...
Republic at Risk: An Introduction to American Politics

When people have the freedom to further their own personal interests in politics, the results may be disastrous. Chaos? Tyranny? Can a political system be set up to avoid these pitfalls, while still granting citizens and politicians the freedom to pursue their interests? Republic at Risk is a concise and engaging introduction to American politics. The guiding theme is the problem of self-interest in politics, which James Madison took as his starting point in his defense of representative government in Federalist 10 and 51. Madison believed that unchecked self-interest in politics was a risk to a well-ordered and free society. But he also held that political institutions could be designed to harness self-interest for the greater good. Putting Madison's theory to the test, the authors examine modern challenges to the integrity and effectiveness of US policy-making institutions, inviting readers to determine how best to respond to these risks.
ACLF and Liver Transplantation

The prevalence, mechanisms, and outcomes of acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) pretransplant that affect post-transplant results are herein summarized. ACLF, defined by organ failures, continues to increase in incidence and now affects almost a quarter of patients before liver transplant. MELD-lactate has emerged as a useful tool to predict inpatient mortality in ACLF patients. ACLF is characterized by bioenergetic failure and increased immunologic response. Specific stool microbiome and serum metabolomic signatures on admission can help predict who is at greatest risk for ACLF pretransplant. Known pretransplant risk factors in patients with ACLF for post-transplant death, such as ongoing respiratory failure, are discussed. Highly selected patients with 1-2 organ failures pretransplant seem to have equivalent post-transplant outcomes to those transplanted without organ failures. However, patients with three or more organ failures, especially those with ongoing respiratory failure at transplant, have an increased risk for death post-transplant.
Intracellular Adhesion Molecule-1 (ICAM-1) Levels in Convalescent COVID-19 Serum: A Case Report

Objective Intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), an endothelial cell adhesion molecule, contributes to inflammation and immune-mediated responses. Viral infection of endothelial cells caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) can cause vascular changes and elevate the expression of ICAM-1 in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients and may be used as a biomarker to measure disease severity or recovery. This study sought to identify the ICAM-1 levels in convalescent COVID-19 serum 2 to 33 weeks after the initial diagnosis. Methods ICAM-1 levels were measured 2-33 weeks after COVID-19 diagnosis (April 2020) in the serum from a subject in Brooklyn, New York who recovered from COVID-19 (ELISA). SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibody levels were also measured (ELISA). Results ICAM-1 levels were low 2 weeks after the initial COVID-19 diagnosis and increased 6-fold at 5 weeks. ICAM-1 levels decreased at 12 weeks (50%) and at 33 weeks (50%) after the initial COVID-19 diagnosis. SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibody levels were detected 4-5 weeks after the initial COVID-19 diagnosis. Conclusions ICAM-1 levels in serum from a recovered COVID-19 patient were highest 5 weeks after the initial COVID-19 diagnosis. The presence of high levels of soluble markers such as ICAM-1, as measured by the anti-ICAM-1 antibody, may be due to their increased shedding from the cell surface. ICAM-1 may also be a prognostic indicator for late complications or sequelae due to COVD-19 infection.
Keep Calm and Carry on…Line: A Framework for Applying Pre-COVID Pedagogical Theory to the Shifting Online Course Environment

The COVID-19 pandemic caused instructors to quickly pivot their teaching into the remote environment. Now, as we conclude over a year of remote instruction, faculty need to focus on developing excellence in online and hybridized education. Research has been dedicated to discovering best practices in online teaching, but much of that work was conducted pre-COVID, when students and faculty chose to take/teach their courses remotely. Three Professors of Teaching across different disciplines reflect on their online courses and provide a three-step framework for structuring online classes that can account for the ever-shifting context of remote instruction in the immediate future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] Copyright of College Teaching is the property of Taylor & Francis Ltd and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)
Global Controllability for a “Rowing” Swimming Model

We consider a swimmer whose body consists of three small narrow rectangles connected by flexible links. Our goal is to study its swimming capabilities when it applies a rowing motion in a fluid governed in a bounded domain by the nonstationary Stokes equation. Our approach explores an idea that a body in a fluid will move in the direction of least resistance determined by its geometric shape. Respectively, we assume that the means by which we can affect the motion of swimmer are the change of the spatial orientation of the aforementioned rectangles and the direction and strength of rowing motion. The main results are derived in the framework of mathematical controllability theory for pde’s and are based on a constructive technique allowing one to calculate an incrementalmotion of swimmer.
Comparative Analysis of Control Design Techniques for a Cart-Inverted-Pendulum in Real-Time Implementation

Conventional controllers such as PID controllers have a long history of successful industrial applications. However, in recent years, many nonlinear controllers have been applied to deal with nonlinear systems. Sliding mode control has been successfully used for SISO non-linear systems and for certain multivariable systems, fuzzy-logic has been successfully applied in many practical control systems. Meanwhile, there has been interest in developing expert systems for control that involve necessary process knowledge required for good control. Neural network control has been used to determine adaptive laws for the adjustment of the control parameters. This paper will evaluate and compare PD, sliding mode, fuzzy, expert system, and neural network control methods in controlling the cart-inverted-pendulum. Performance is evaluated in terms of control surface, system response, stability, and robustness. Moreover the comparison of these controllers is validated through experimentation. Strengths and weaknesses, in the real-time control are indicated.
Dynamics of Obesity and Chronic Health Conditions Among Children and Youth

Context Rates of obesity and other childhood chronic conditions have increased over recent decades. Patterns of how conditions change over time have not been widely examined. Objective To evaluate change in prevalence of obesity and other chronic conditions in US children, including incidence, remission, and prevalence. Design, Setting, and Participants Prospective study using the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth–Child Cohort (1988-2006) of 3 nationally representative cohorts of children. Children were aged 2 through 8 years at the beginning of each study period, and cohorts were followed up for 6 years, from 1988 to 1994 (cohort 1, n = 2337), 1994 to 2000 (cohort 2, n = 1759), and 2000 to 2006 (n = 905). Main Outcome Measures Parent report of a child having a health condition that limited activities or schooling or required medicine, special equipment, or specialized health services and that lasted at least 12 months. Obesity was defined as a body mass index at or above the 95th percentile for age. Chronic conditions were grouped into 4 categories: obesity, asthma, other physical conditions, and behavior/learning problems. Results The end-study prevalence of any chronic health condition was 12.8% (95% confidence interval [CI], 11.2%-14.5%) for cohort 1 in 1994, 25.1% (95% CI, 22.7%-27.6%) for cohort 2 in 2000, and 26.6% (95% CI, 23.5%-29.9%) for cohort 3 in 2006. There was substantial turnover in chronic conditions: 7.4% (95% CI, 6.5%-8.3%) of participants in all cohorts had a chronic condition at the beginning of the study that persisted to the end, 9.3% (95% CI, 8.3%-10.3%) reported conditions at the beginning that resolved within 6 years, and 13.4% (95% CI, 12.3%-14.6%) had new conditions that arose during the 6-year study period. The prevalence of having a chronic condition during any part of the 6-year study period was highest for cohort 3 (51.5%; 95% CI, 47.3%-55.0%), and there were higher rates among male (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 1.24; 95% CI, 1.07-1.42), Hispanic (AOR, 1.36; 95% CI, 1.11-1.67), and black (AOR, 1.60; 95% CI, 1.35-1.90) youth. Conclusions Prevalence of chronic conditions among children and youth increased from 1988 to 2006. However, presence of these conditions was dynamic over each 6-year cohort.
Design and Assessment of an Interactive Digital Tutorial for Undergraduate-level Sandstone Petrology

A digital interactive tutorial has been created to provide undergraduates a ‘virtual microscope’ resource for learning sandstone petrology. The tutorial does not replace hands-on laboratory experiences with the petrographic microscope, but lends efficiency and breadth to the learning process. Students are able to obtain practice with identification of a wide array of sandstone components outside of the laboratory and independently of the instructor. The efficacy of traditional petrography instruction versus instruction supplemented by the tutorial was assessed in two semesters of GEO 416M, “Sedimentary Rocks” at the University of Texas at Austin. Students in the first semester were not provided with the tutorial, providing a baseline or control for comparison. In the second semester, the digital tutorial was provided to all students on CD and assigned as a required resource in laboratory exercises. Investigation of student attitudes towards the tutorial demonstrates a high level of approval, and subject m...