cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Attitudes towards Teaching Profession of Education Students in Qatar1

Abstract This study attempted to obtain empirical evidence on education students' attitudes towards the teaching profession in Qatar using the Attitude Scale Towards Teaching Profession. 334 students (M age = 21.3 yr.) majoring in education were surveyed. Internal consistency reliability of scores was acceptable (Cronbach's alpha = .94). The results indicated that the participants tended to hold a fairly positive attitude towards teaching as a profession. Results also suggested that education students' attitudes towards the teaching profession affected their undergraduate academic achievement. Some recommendations to enhance these attitudes were made.
Canadian Children's Performance on the Matrix Analogies Test

The purpose of this study was to examine the performance differences between Canadian and American samples on the Matrix Analogies Test-Short Form (MAT-SF) (Naglieri, 1985). The MAT-SF was administered in group format to 407 Canadian students from Edmonton, Alberta. The means and standard deviations earned by the Canadian students were compared to those earned by American students of the same ages who constituted the MAT-SF normative sample. Results indicated that the means of the Canadian sample were not significantly different at three of the age groups and were significantly higher at two ages than for the American samples. Interpretation of these data and their implications for the use of the MAT-SF in Canada are presented.
When is drug treatment not necessary in epilepsy? Factors that should influence the decision to prescribe

Epilepsy is a common treatable disorder with an incidence in the UK of about 0.05% and a prevalence of 0.5%.1 The average secondary school has about 6 children with the condition. A paediatrician who has diagnosed epilepsy will feel pressure to prescribe medication—as indeed will a clinician in adult practice. In view of the efficacy of anti-epileptic drugs,2 this is understandable. The primary aim of therapy is of course to prevent seizures, but do anti-epileptic drugs alter the natural history of the condition, either in the short term or by enhancing the chance of long-term remission? Should the benign epilepsies of childhood be treated differently? How do medication and everyday life issues interact? This paper deals with the factors that should influence the decision to prescribe. The focus is on childhood and adolescence, but much of the published work relates to adults and many of the points are relevant to an adult population too.
Molecular Insights into the Structure–Function Relationship of Organic Anion Transporters OATs

The organic anion transporter (OAT) family encoded by SLC22A mediates the absorption, distribution, and excretion of a diverse array of environmental toxins, and clinically important drugs, including anti-HIV therapeutics, anti-tumor drugs, antibiotics, anti-hypertensives, and anti-inflammatories, and therefore is critical for the survival of mammalian species. Several OATs have been identified: OAT1 (SLC22A6), OAT2 (SLC22A7), OAT3 (SLC22A8), OAT4 (SLC22A11), OAT5 (SLC22A19) OAT6 (SLC22A20) and URAT1 (SLC22A12). The expressions of these OATs have been detected in key organs such as kidney, liver, brain and placenta. OAT dysfunction in these organs may contribute to the renal, hepatic, neurological and fetal toxicity and diseases. In this review, we summarize, according to the work done by our laboratory as well as by others, the most updated molecular studies on these OAT members, especially on the aspect of their structure-function relationships. The functional roles of N-glycosylation, transmembrane domains and individual amino acids, cell surface assembly, as well as associating proteins will be discussed. In addition, we will show the recent analyses of coding region polymorphisms of OATs, which give us information on the genetic variants of OATs and their potential effects on OAT functions.
Characterization of five catalytic activities associated with the NADPH:2-ketopropyl-coenzyme M [2-(2-ketopropylthio)ethanesulfonate] oxidoreductase/carboxylase of the Xanthobacter strain Py2 epoxide carboxylase system.

The bacterial metabolism of propylene proceeds by epoxidation to epoxypropane followed by carboxylation to acetoacetate. Epoxypropane carboxylation is a minimetabolic pathway that requires four enzymes, NADPH, NAD+, and coenzyme M (CoM; 2-mercaptoethanesulfonate) and occurs with the overall reaction stoichiometry: epoxypropane + CO2 + NADPH + NAD+ + CoM → acetoacetate + H+ + NADP+ + NADH + CoM. The terminal enzyme of the pathway is NADPH:2-ketopropyl-CoM [2-(2-ketopropylthio)ethanesulfonate] oxidoreductase/carboxylase (2-KPCC), an FAD-containing enzyme that is a member of the NADPH:disulfide oxidoreductase family of enzymes and that catalyzes the reductive cleavage and carboxylation of 2-ketopropyl-CoM to form acetoacetate and CoM according to the reaction: 2-ketopropyl-CoM + NADPH + CO2 → acetoacetate + NADP+ + CoM. In the present work, 2-KPCC has been characterized with respect to the above reaction and four newly discovered partial reactions of relevance to the catalytic mechanism, and each of which ...
Graceful degradation in synthesis of VLSI ICs

Increasing levels of societal reliance on computerized solutions demand fault-resilient solutions. At the same time, system-on-a-chip levels of integration, demand a reexamination and migration of traditional system level fault resilience techniques to the integrated circuit level. Automated synthesis methodologies need to provide embedded, low-cost fault resilience properties, capable of ensuring fault resilience for all on-chip components and interconnects. The outlined approaches in this paper pioneer the insertion of unabridged fault resilience properties at the IC level through highly automated approaches. The experimental results show cost-effective solutions, with no performance degradation, in the synthesized ASICs.
GLP-1(32-36)amide Pentapeptide Increases Basal Energy Expenditure and Inhibits Weight Gain in Obese Mice

The prevalence of obesity-related diabetes is increasing worldwide. Here we report the identification of a pentapeptide, GLP-1(32-36)amide (LVKGRamide), derived from the glucoincretin hormone GLP-1, that increases basal energy expenditure and curtails the development of obesity, insulin resistance, diabetes, and hepatic steatosis in diet-induced obese mice. The pentapeptide inhibited weight gain, reduced fat mass without change in energy intake, and increased basal energy expenditure independent of physical activity. Analyses of tissues from peptide-treated mice reveal increased expression of UCP-1 and UCP-3 in brown adipose tissue and increased UCP-3 and inhibition of acetyl-CoA carboxylase in skeletal muscle, findings consistent with increased fatty acid oxidation and thermogenesis. In palmitate-treated C2C12 skeletal myotubes, GLP-1(32-36)amide activated AMPK and inhibited acetyl-CoA carboxylase, suggesting activation of fat metabolism in response to energy depletion. By mass spectroscopy, the pentapeptide is rapidly formed from GLP-1(9-36)amide, the major form of GLP-1 in the circulation of mice. These findings suggest that the reported insulin-like actions of GLP-1 receptor agonists that occur independently of the GLP-1 receptor might be mediated by the pentapeptide, and the previously reported nonapeptide (FIAWLVKGRamide). We propose that by increasing basal energy expenditure, GLP-1(32-36)amide might be a useful treatment for human obesity and associated metabolic disorders.
Sporotrichosis: nasal obstruction in an infant.

(Editorial Comment: The authors call our attention to cutaneous sporotrichosis. This fungal disease caused nasal obstruction in the patient presented.) In the United States, sporotrichosis is an uncommon, infectious disease. It is caused by the dimorphic fungus, Sporothrix schenckii, which was first described in 1898. In most patients, the extremities are affected, but several investigators report ocular infection as well.‘s2 Information concerning otolaryngological manifestations of sporotrichosis are scarce, but cutaneous or subcutaneous involvement is most frequently cited. ls3 Two varieties of cutaneous forms have been described. The lymphocutaneous type is considered most common (75% to 80% of patients) and is characterized by development of lymphangitic nodules secondary to open skin lesions. In the second variety, the cutaneous form (20% to 25% of patients), the lesion is confined to a nodule, ulceration, or verrucous lesion, The disseminated form of sporotrichosis is exceedingly rare (less than 1% of all patients).1,3 Patients with sporotrichosis rarely have involvement of the internal nose or nasal airway obstruction. We report sporotrichosis in a 60day-old child whose primary symptom was nasal obstruction.
Analysis and Measurement of Soil Behavior Around Buried Concrete Pipe

A piece-wise linear finite-element model of a buried concrete pipe and the surrounding soil is used to analyze the behavior of a soil-pipe system for both a trench and an embankment installation. Soil moduli for the various soils comprising each installation were determined from uniaxial strain tests, and they are considered to be functions of the major principal stress and the initial dry density. Values of Poisson's ratio were determined from triaxial tests with lateral strain measurements. Based on an extensive set of data from uniaxial strain tests on compacted and undisturbed soils, formulations-are proposed to predict the constrained modulus from a knowledge of various soil index properties. Predicted soil stresses and deformations, interface stresses, and pipe deformations were compared to actual measured values from two field installations, and the results substantiate the adequacy of the approach.
Endovascular treatment of spontaneous dissections of the superior mesenteric artery.

Background Spontaneous dissection of the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) is exceedingly rare. Treatment options range from observation to anticoagulation to open surgery or endovascular repair. We present our experience to date in the management of isolated SMA dissections. Methods A retrospective review of the vascular surgery and radiology databases from 1998 to 2008 was performed. In general, incidental radiologic findings of a dissection were managed expectantly. The decision to intervene was based on anatomic suitability, patient comorbidities and symptoms, and physician preference. Endovascular stents were placed using a brachial approach, with the choice of stent determined by physician preference. Patients who underwent endovascular stent placement (ESP) were maintained on antiplatelet therapy for 6 months postoperatively. Follow-up consisted of yearly office visits and adjunctive computerized tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) when clinically indicated. Results CT or MRI imaging identified nine patients (7 men, 2 women) with an isolated SMA dissection. One patient also had a concomitant celiac artery dissection. Median age was 70 years (range, 46-73 years). Median follow-up time was 32 months (range, 13.8-62.5 months). Presentations included an incidental radiologic finding in three patients and acute onset abdominal pain in six. Treatment included expectant management in four patients, anticoagulation in two, and ESP in three. ESP was performed primarily in two patients and in a third patient after initial management with anticoagulation failed. The reduction in the diameter of the true lumen was significantly greater in patients treated with ESP vs patients who were successfully managed expectantly or with anticoagulation (F = 15.59, P Conclusions An isolated SMA dissection is a rare entity that may be managed successfully in a variety of ways based on clinical presentation. Endovascular stenting can be performed with good results and may be the preferred treatment in patients with symptomatic isolated SMA dissections.
A Survey of Analytic Models of Rollback and Recovery Stratergies

There are several ways to increase system reliability. Choosing the most cost-effective one is not easy, but models such as those outlined in this paper can help.
Evaluation of Patients with Chest Pain who Present to the Emergency Department: Utility of Multidetector CT

Summary The evaluation of patients who present to the Emergency Department with chest pain remains challenging, particularly for atypical chest pain. This article discusses imaging techniques that are used in such equivocal cases, including radionuclide perfusion imaging and echocardiography, with emphasis on the potential role of multi-detector computed tomography.
Intradural Spinal Cord Tumors

Although rare, intramedullary spinal cord tumors reflect a disease process that requires knowledge of specific tumor types and the surgical techniques for resection of each. This chapter explores all major intramedullary neoplasms, including their epidemiology, patient symptoms, radiological features, treatment options, and outcomes. In general, patients may present with pain, motor and sensory deficits, and bowel and bladder symptoms. Magnetic resonance imaging is required to determine not only the location of the lesion but also the radiological features that will guide diagnosis. Surgical management is the primary treatment modality. Outcome and survivability depend on the specific histology, grade, and surgical outcome of each tumor, but outcome is generally good, especially for grades I and II tumors. Adjuvant treatments including chemotherapy and radiation play a limited treatment role and are only used in select patients.
Changing Legal Regimes and the Allocation of Water Between Two California Rivers

Water is the most essential and fought over resource in the western United States. Struggles over how to allocate water are framed by legal regimes that encompass the body of established laws and the institutions that administer these laws. But as values change, new regulations and new court interpretations can conflict with established law, and new legal requirements and institutional jurisdictions can encroach on one another. This tension is visible in the new doctrine, regulations, and agencies affecting water allocation decisions today as compared with a century ago. The history of the Potter Valley Hydropower Project, an inter-basin diversion facility in Northern California, provides an ideal arena to explore the struggle for control over water in the west and how changes in legal regimes affect water allocation decisions. Situated at the center of two linked rivers, the hydropower project and its diversion of Eel River water into the Russian River embody many of the tensions common to water allocation disputes throughout California. The project was generally supported at the time of its construction in 1905, but the continuation of its water diversion is highly contested today. New environmental regulations and case law are challenging established water rights, there is increased friction between expanding sets of local, state, and federal agencies; there is new case law supporting efforts by Indian Tribes to access their federal reserved rights to water; and there are restrictions on water imported from a different basin. This article highlights the water rights history of the project juxtaposed against the framework of the broader legal regime, and it discusses how today's complex legal system for allocating water operates in the present negotiations. I propose that the present legal process for allocating water disperses decision making among multiple federal, state, and local agencies. While this has resulted in friction and inefficiencies, agency pluralism has also provided new political opportunities for previously ignored claims, creating the potential for greater equity in future decisions.
Effect of a Trace Mineral Injection on Growth Performance of Natural Beef Feedlot Steers

Overall, it was observed that there were no effects of the trace mineral (TM) injection on Natural beef steer growth performance, regardless of the timing of an injectable TM product in the natural program (start of growing phase, start of finishing phase, or start of growing and finishing phases). While TM injection did further increase liver Cu, Zn, Mn, and Se concentrations, limited influence on performance was noted, likely due to the steers having excellent TM status at the beginning of the experimental period. Further research needs to be done utilizing steers with varying TM status to evaluate effects on growth and carcass traits in response to a rapid improvement in TM status.
Fungal mimicry of a mammalian aminopeptidase disables innate immunity and promotes pathogenicity

Systemic fungal infections trigger marked immune-regulatory disturbances, but the mechanisms are poorly understood. We report that the pathogenic yeast of Blastomyces dermatitidis elaborates dipeptidyl-peptidase IVA (DppIVA), a close mimic of the mammalian ectopeptidase CD26, which modulates critical aspects of hematopoiesis. We show that, like the mammalian enzyme, fungal DppIVA cleaved C-C chemokines and GM-CSF. Yeast producing DppIVA crippled the recruitment and differentiation of monocytes and prevented phagocyte activation and ROS production. Silencing fungal DppIVA gene expression curtailed virulence and restored recruitment of CCR2(+) monocytes, generation of TipDC, and phagocyte killing of yeast. Pharmacological blockade of DppIVA restored leukocyte effector functions and stemmed infection, while addition of recombinant DppIVA to gene-silenced yeast enabled them to evade leukocyte defense. Thus, fungal DppIVA mediates immune-regulatory disturbances that underlie invasive fungal disease. These findings reveal a form of molecular piracy by a broadly conserved aminopeptidase during disease pathogenesis.
One-step synthesis of nitrogen-iron coordinated carbon nanotube catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction

Abstract Prohibitively expensive precious metal catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) have been one of the major hurdles in a wide use of electrochemical cells. Recent significant efforts to develop precious metal free catalysts have resulted in excellent catalytic activities. However, complicated and time-consuming synthesis processes have negated the cost benefit. Moreover, detailed analysis about catalytically active sites and the role of each element in these high-performance catalysts containing nanomaterials for large surface areas are often lacking. Here we report a facile one-step synthesis method of nitrogen-iron coordinated carbon nanotube (CNT) catalysts without precious metals. Our catalysts show excellent long-term stability and onset ORR potential comparable to those of other precious metal free catalysts, and the maximum limiting current density from our catalysts is larger than that of the Pt-based catalysts. We carry out a series of synthesis and characterization experiments with/without iron and nitrogen in CNT, and identify that the coordination of nitrogen and iron in CNT plays a key role in achieving the excellent catalytic performances. We anticipate our one-step process could be used for mass production of precious metal free electrocatalysts for a wide range of electrochemical cells including fuel cells and metal-air batteries.
Steering Power of Perfluoroalkyl Substituents in Crystal Engineering: Tuning the π–π Distance While Maintaining the Lamellar Packing Motif for Aromatics with Various Sizes of π-Conjugation

Previously, we reported that introducing perfluoroalkyl substituents onto aromatics promotes the formation of lamellar π–π stacked crystalline materials with short interplanar distances. In this report, we developed a new synthetic route that effectively prepares perfluoroalkylated N-containing aromatics by eliminating a side perfluoroalkylation reaction occurring on nonsubstituted Csp2–H sites of the corresponding bromoaromatics without regioselectivity. This results in a significant improvement of the yield of target perfluoroalkylated aromatics and facilitates the purification and scale-up processes. X-ray single crystal structural analyses show that lamellar π–π stacked structures with tunable interplanar distances are achieved with fused N-containing aromatics with varying sizes of π-conjugation. Both crystal structures and theoretical calculations demonstrated that the interplanar distance can be fine-tuned with the size of π-conjugation, with larger π-conjugation favoring shorter interplanar distan...
Controlled Emission through Fluorescent Polymer Nanopigments

The use is explored of 100−200 nm sized polystyrene or poly(9,9-dihexyl-2,7-fluorenediyl) (PFH) nanoparticles (“nanopigments”) containing low-MW chromophores such as perylene, coumarin 6, and Nile ...
The Optimal-Pessimal Paradox1:

For a certain common type of experimental situation, the better the subject's performance — i.e., the more skilled he is, or the easier his task (perhaps due to good human-engineering design) — the more markedly skewed his distribution of scores tends to be and the more nonrobust parametric tests tend to be. So when performance conditions are optimal, test conditions tend to be pessimal and vice versa.
Graphene‐Functionalized 3D‐Carbon Fiber Electrodes – Preparation and Electrochemical Characterization

Graphene nanosheets were produced on the surface of carbon fibers by in situ electrochemical procedure including oxidative and reductive steps to yield first graphene oxide, later converted to graphene. The electrode material composed of graphene-functionalized carbon fibers was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and cyclic voltammery demonstrating superior electrochemical kinetics comparing with the original carbon paper. The interfacial electron transfer rate for the reversible redox process of [Fe(CN)6]3−/4− was found ca. 4.5-fold higher after the electrode modification with the graphene nanosheets. The novel electrode material is suggested as a promising conducting interface for bioelectrocatalytic electrodes used in various electrochemical biosensors and biofuel cells, particularly operating in vivo.
Search Invasion Examination Base on the Logical Ring-like Distributional Cooperation Control Technology of e-government

In view of the electronic govermment affairs in the safe distrbutional invasion examination system characteristic, the copperation way has carred on the analysis. A set based on the logical ring-like distributional cooperation control technology distributional invasion examination system is proposed. Solved at present invades in the examination system at the government affairs between various systems to cooperate the efficiency lowly,the disposition is complex. The examination responds and so on the flaw slowly, and in detail elaborated the ring-like structure distributional invasion examination system cooperation mechanism and the potency appraisal method.
Rapid Pyramiding of Resistance Genes to Bacterial Blight in Rice by Using the Integrated Technique of Marker Assisted-Selection and Anther Culture

WFZ (Wufengzhan 2) and IRBB5, with minor-polygene and a major gene xa5 resistant to bacterial blight respectively, were used as parental lines to pyramid minor-polygene and major genes by using marker assisted-selection, anther culture and backcross. The new piece of R primer, 5′CCAGACACCACTGCACATTC 3′, was designed according to the sequence of RG556 in GeneBank using Primer 3, the new R primer has a similarT m to the F primer. The PCR efficiency of amplification was greatly improved, about ten times higher than those of the old ones. The individual of B 1F 1 derived from WFZ 2/IRBB5 showing similar lesion length to WFZ and with gene xa5 were selected for anther culture, sixteen of 30 diploid lines with xa5 incorporated were obtained. These lines showed a higher level of resistance than both of their parents with only 0.1 cm lesion in length. The result showed that the minor-polygene and the major gene were successfully pyramided. It took only two years from the cross to the pyramid, about 1-2 years less than that of the traditional breeding method.
Blood pressure during pregnancy, neonatal size and altered body composition: the Healthy Start study.

Blood pressure during pregnancy, neonatal size and altered body composition: the Healthy Start study
Integrating Spirituality in Marriage and Family Therapy Training

Interest is growing in how to integrate spirituality into family therapy. Closely related to this development are efforts to include spirituality in marriage and family therapy training. Students in various fields are expressing interest in spirituality and the desire to have it integrated into their training programs. However, not all family therapy training incorporates spirituality as part of rigorous academic inquiry while considering the personal and cultural components of spirituality in the curriculum. This article examines approaches to integrating spirituality in a Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE) accredited program at Christian Theological Seminary (CTS). A review of research on spirituality in training programs is offered as well as current approaches that address spirituality. The pedagogical approach at CTS is then explicated. The curriculum includes courses in religion and others that integrate spirituality/theological reflection with family therapy. ‘Integration of Self, Systems, and Spirit’ and a Capstone Presentation that showcases an integrative method are described. Finally, implications for training in secular universities and agencies are articulated, with suggestions for future exploration.
Challenging Research: The Problems and Limitations of Research Queer, Questioning, and Ally Youth

The complexity of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) youth negotiations of subjectivity, relationality, and spaces for particular emergences of identification complicates how we do research and how we think about research methods and aims. This chapter explores how various queer, questioning, and ally student practices push us to broaden what we consider research, how we think about consent, and key definitions. These potential disruptions to some research practices are meant to bring queer theory and practice into conversation with research and to reconsider the specific barriers to LGBTQ research in schools.
Numerical Solution of the Hodgkin-Huxley ODEs

In practice, complicated differential equations such as the Hodgkin-Huxley ODEs are almost always solved numerically, that is, approximate solutions are obtained on a computer. The study of methods for the numerical solution of differential equations is the subject of a large and highly sophisticated branch of mathematics. However, here we will study only the two simplest methods: Euler’s method and the midpoint method. Euler’s method is explained here merely as a stepping stone to the midpoint method. For all simulations of this book, we will use the midpoint method, since it is far more efficient, and not much more complicated than Euler’s method.
A Theoretical Study of Methanol Oxidation on RuO2(110): Bridging the Pressure Gap

Partial oxidation catalysis is often fraught with selectivity problems, largely because there is a tendency of oxidation products to be more reactive than the starting material. One industrial process that has successfully overcome this problem is partial oxidation of methanol to formaldehyde. This process has become a global success, with an annual production of 30 million tons. Although ruthenium catalysts have not shown activity as high as the current molybdena or silver-based industrial standards, the study of ruthenium systems has the potential to elucidate which catalyst properties facilitate the desired partial oxidation reaction as opposed to deep combustion due to a pressure-dependent selectivity “switch” that has been observed in ruthenium-based catalysts. In this work, we find that we are able to successfully rationalize this “pressure gap” using near-ab initio steady-state microkinetic modeling on RuO2(110). We obtain molecular desorption prefactors from experiment and determine all other ener...
Leveraging community sport organizations to promote community capacity: Strategic outcomes, challenges, and theoretical considerations

Abstract Community sport organizations (CSOs) provide valuable contexts for promoting community development. These initiatives are most effective when they involve local stakeholders in the process of development. A key first step to achieving this objective is building community capacity, defined as local stakeholders’ skills, knowledge, and resources that may be leveraged for change. Interestingly, despite this conceptual importance, few researchers have focused on capacity building in the sport context. This has limited the theoretical advancement of community capacity theory as it relates to CSOs and community development. Using a qualitative case study approach, the authors analyze the outcomes and challenges of implementing community capacity building strategies in an American CSO, and draw on the empirical data to contribute to this theoretical conversation. Interviews, participant observation, and document analysis were used to generate data, and deductive techniques were used for thematic analysis. The results highlight the outcomes of the capacity building strategies and challenges associated with implementation. In addition, the conclusion focuses on theoretical contributions to community capacity theory, namely the role of sport in facilitating inter-community relations across social groups and the link with process models of organizational capacity.
Screening Guidelines for Thyroid Function in Children With Alopecia Areata.

Importance The incidence of thyroid disease in children with alopecia areata (AA) has been widely studied with no consensus on whether a true association with AA exists. In addition, screening practices for thyroid dysfunction in children with AA vary widely among clinicians. Objective To reduce health care costs, eliminate unnecessary testing, and standardize clinical practices, we sought to characterize thyroid function in children with AA to establish guidelines for screening. Design, Setting, and Participants A single-site retrospective medical chart review was carried out in an outpatient pediatric dermatology clinic in a tertiary referral medical center between January 1, 2008 and January 1, 2016. The study included 298 patients (ages 0-21 years) who received a clinical diagnosis of AA and underwent thyroid function tests. Main Outcomes and Measures Age at diagnosis of AA, duration of disease, severity, location, and type were documented. Past medical history and family medical history of patients were also recorded. Results of laboratory tests including thyrotropin (formerly thyroid-stimulating hormone [TSH]), free T4 (FT4), triiodothyronine (T3), thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPO-Abs), and thyroglobulin antibodies (Tg-Abs). Results During the 8-year period, 298 patients with AA had thyroid function screening. Of those with thyroid screening, patterns of AA included patchy (68%), ophiasis (13%), totalis (9%), and universalis (10%). Severity was determined by percentage of hair loss on the scalp and were divided into mild (30.2%), moderate (32.9%), and severe (36.9%). A total of 59 (20%) patients had abnormalities on thyroid testing results. In this group of patients, hypothyroidism was the most frequent finding 29 (49%), with Hashimoto thyroiditis being the most common cause(24 [41%]). Other abnormalities included hyperthyroidism secondary to Grave disease (12 [20%]) and subclinical thyroid dysfunction (7 [12%]). Whereas age, duration of disease, pattern of alopecia, and diagnosis of autoimmune diseases had no significant association with abnormal thyroid findings, a personal history of Down syndrome (P = .004), atopy (P = .009), and family history of thyroid disease (P = .001) did. Conclusions and Relevance We recommend that routine thyroid function screening should be restricted to AA patients with a medical history of Down syndrome, personal history of atopy, a family history of thyroid disease, or clinical findings (goiter) suggestive of potential thyroid dysfunction in the individual patient.
Central nervous system (CNS) neuroblastoma. A case-based update

Primary central nervous system (CNS) neuroblastoma is a rare intracranial tumor affecting children mainly in the first years of life. It is usually a supratentorial tumor with a wide spectrum of clinical presentation, seizures, and focal neurological deficits being the most common presenting signs. A 2-year-old child was admitted to our ward after a generalized seizure. Neurological examination was normal. Radiological studies showed a small DWI hyperintense lesion of the right rectus gyrus. Follow-up brain MRI 8 months later showed a huge growth of the tumor (90 × 80 × 65 mm) with polycyclic and apparently defined margins, cystic components, and diffuse contrast enhancement. Complete tumor removal was performed in two planned surgical steps. Histological diagnosis was CNS neuroblastoma. At a follow-up of 8 months, the child is in good clinical and neurological condition and is completing chemotherapy treatment according to the SIOP PNET 4 protocol. A thorough review of the literature confirms that primary CNS neuroblastoma has to be considered a distinct entity. The disease related mortality is 12.5%, lower than the one usually reported for other previously described as PNETs tumors. The most relevant factors influencing prognosis are the possibility of obtaining a complete tumor removal and age more than 3 years, which allows to include radiotherapy among treatment options.
The Link Between Self-Dehumanization and Immoral Behavior:

People perceive morality to be distinctively human, with immorality representing a lack of full humanness. In eight experiments, we examined the link between immorality and self-dehumanization, testing both (a) the causal role of immoral behavior on self-dehumanization and (b) the causal role of self-dehumanization on immoral behavior. Studies 1a to 1d showed that people feel less human after behaving immorally and that these effects were not driven by having a negative experience but were unique to experiences of immorality (Study 1d). Studies 2a to 2c showed that self-dehumanization can lead to immoral and antisocial behavior. Study 3 highlighted how self-dehumanization can sometimes produce downward spirals of immorality, demonstrating initial unethical behavior leading to self-dehumanization, which in turn promotes continued dishonesty. These results demonstrate a clear relationship between self-dehumanization and unethical behavior, and they extend previous theorizing on dehumanization.
Wide-area lustre file system using LNet routers

Scientific and big data computations are increasingly being distributed across wide-area networks, and they often require access to remote files. The file systems that are directly mounted over wide-area networks transparently support such computations, and also obviate the need for special purpose file transfer tools. In typical distributed file systems, the access is limited to local sites, and in particular, the reach of Lustre file system implemented over InfiniBand (IB) is limited to at most tens of miles due to 2.5ms latency bound. We describe LNet router methods that connect IB Lustre file system to remote Ethernet clients over wide-area networks. We collect extensive Lustre throughput measurements over 10Gbps connections with 0–366ms round-trip times. They demonstrate that Gbps throughput can be sustained over connections spanning the globe. We present Lustre throughput profiles over local and wide-area connections, which show the effects of various buffers and credits; in particular, they highlight the throughput limits for large transfers over wide-area connections. Furthermore, the measurements show the positive effects of pipelining in achieving higher throughput for successively file transfers compared to rates indicated by IOzone benchmark rates.
Storage Schemes for the Coefficient Stiffness Matrix

For many important engineering and science applications [2.1,2.2], the coefficient matrix [A] involved in the system of linear simultaneous equations $$ \left[ A \right]{\text{ }}{\mkern 1mu} \left\{ X \right\} = \left\{ b \right\}$$ (2.1) is usually symmetrical, positive-definite and sparse. In structural engineering applications [A], {X} and {b} represent stiffness matrix, nodal displacement vector and nodal load vector, respectively.
Coherent Light Imaging and Scattering for Biological Investigations

Quantitative phase imaging (QPI) of live cells has received significant scientific interest over the past decade or so, mainly because it offers structure and dynamics information at the nanometer scale in a completely noninvasive manner. Fourier transform light scattering (FTLS) relies on quantifying the optical phase and amplitude associated with a coherent image field and propagating it numerically to the scattering plane. It combines optical microscopy, holography, and light scattering for studying inhomogeneous and dynamic media. We present recent developments of QPI technology and FTLS for biological system structure and dynamics study. Their applications are classified into static and dynamic according to their temporal selectivity. Several promising prospects are discussed in the summary section.
Review of Physiology and Pathophysiology

A discussion of the principles of mechanical ventilation must begin with a review of important physiologic concepts. This chapter is a review of gas exchange, focusing on oxygenation and ventilation. There are five major causes of hypoxemia: V/Q mismatch, shunt, alveolar hypoventilation, decreased partial pressure of oxygen, and decreased diffusion. Several other key principles of hypoxemia include understanding hypoxemic vasoconstriction and derecruitment. Resistance and compliance are core concepts in respiratory physiology and are important in caring for ventilated patients. Monitoring for air trapping is essential to preventing untoward outcomes as well.
Profile-Specific Regression Model for Progression Prediction of Alzheimer's Disease Using Longitudinal Data

Studies on progression and prediction of Alzheimer's disease (AD) at multiple time points are less prevalent than the standard cross-sectional studies, which have been around for over two decades. The reason is that longitudinal datasets have not been readily available until recently, therefore predictive analysis of AD is relatively new to the scene. Even though some new lines of research have started to focus on regression modeling of the patient's pattern change in the future, they neglect the fact that the progression curves for different initial profiles at the baseline are fundamentally different from each other. These trends can hardly be modeled using a general regressor no matter how complex and nonlinear the model is. Therefore, encoding the disease progression for patients with different disease severity using separate regressors may achieve results that are more reliable. Following this assertion, we propose a model that in its first step classifies the subjects in the baseline data into four groups of Early Mild Cognitive Impairment (EMCI), Late Mild Cognitive Impairment (LMCI), and Cognitively Normal Controls (NC). In the second stage, we trained profile specific regressors to estimate Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores in multiple future time-points up to 36 months ahead of time. To validate our model, we perform a set of experiments on ADNI baseline MRI, FDG-PET, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) data from 1,458 subjects, among them 333 AD patients, 529 LMCI, 255 EMCI, and 341 NC. Experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method in terms of Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) exhibiting an average of 1.12 decrease in the MMSE questionnaire scale range of [0 30] over comparable RMSE scores obtained with state-of-the-art regression kernels.
Monte Carlo Simulation of Displacement Damage in Graphene

This paper introduces a Monte Carlo (MC) approach based on the binary collision approximation to estimate defect types and densities in proton- and heavy-ion-irradiated graphene layers. The types and concentrations of defects that appear in graphene due to irradiation with various ions with energies ranging from ~100 keV to ~100 MeV are identified. This simple method enables defect introduction rates in graphene to be predicted to within better than a factor of two accuracy, relative to experimental measurements in a beam environment. The results demonstrate that all defects generated by ions with high incident energy are formed via head-on collisions and in-plane recoils, which is unique for 2-D materials.
Plant Growth Substances in Commercial Uses of Tissue Culture

The aseptic culture of plant cells and organs, known generically as plant tissue culture, has emerged as a versatile research procedure and a significant commercial practice. And, as Haberlandt discovered in his pioneering experiments (33), the successes have depended on the availability of suitable growth regulating chemicals that could be included in the nutrient medium. Thus, non-tumorous callus was not culturable until IAA (indole-3-acetic acid), the first auxin according to Kogl et al. (48), was used as supplement. Even then, culturability remained restricted to tissues that required only auxin as an exogenous growth substance. More widespread successes were made possible by the discovery of kinetin, the first cytokinin (56). Kinetin, added together with IAA or other auxins, replaced the need for coconut endosperm, the callus-promoting factor discovered earlier (91). Manipulations involving auxin and cytokinin provisions continue to serve as the basis of nearly all of today’s plant tissue culture.
CPX-351 (vyxeos) in AML

For decades, the standard induction for patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has been the combination of cytarabine with anthracycline (7 + 3 regimen). In August 2017 the US FDA approved CPX-...
Pneumocystis jirovecii Pneumonia and Other Infections in Idiopathic Inflammatory Myositis

The management of patients with idiopathic inflammatory myositis (IIM) can be complex and challenging due to the myriad of complications they can experience. The continued use of corticosteroids, in addition to the rise of combination immunosuppressive therapy, has contributed to the ongoing concern for infection. Perhaps the most feared infection in IIM patients is Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PJP) given its infrequent occurrence yet high mortality. The field has been, and continues to be, without evidence-based guidelines to help clinicians determine which patients with IIM to prescribe prophylaxis. Herein, we review this literature to provide the clinician with an up-to-date view of infections in IIM. In the past 5 years, a number of studies have been reported highlighting various infectious complications, which help us better understand their frequency and associated risk factors. In addition, data has been published on the potential harms of PJP prophylaxis, to better inform the risk/benefit of our decision-making. Infection remains a major contributor to morbidity and mortality in IIM. A better understanding of which patient subgroups are at risk for particular infections will inform optimal management strategies.
What drives spatial variability in rainfall intensity-duration thresholds for post-wildfire debris flows? Insights from the 2018 Buzzard Fire, NM, USA

Wildfire alters the hydrologic and geomorphic responses of burned areas relative to nearby unburned areas, making them more prone to runoff, erosion, and debris flow. In post-wildfire settings, debris flows often initiate when runoff concentrates on steep slopes and rapidly mobilizes sediment. Rainfall intensity-duration (ID) thresholds have been proven useful for assessing post-fire debris-flow potential but can vary substantially from one location to another as a result of hydrologic factors that control rainfall-runoff partitioning. Debris-flow initiation thresholds based on a slope-dependent dimensionless discharge criterion, which have the theoretical benefit of being consistent from site to site, have also been proposed but not extensively tested. We monitored debris-flow activity in 12 small (< 1 km2) watersheds burned by the 2018 Buzzard Fire in New Mexico, USA, documenting 24 debris flows during the first several months following the wildfire. We use a recently proposed dimensionless-discharge threshold in combination with rainfall-runoff modeling to estimate basin-specific rainfall ID thresholds for debris-flow initiation. These model-derived thresholds compare well with observations. Areas burned at low severity are characterized by higher infiltration capacity, rainfall interception, and hydraulic roughness relative to areas burned at moderate or high severity, but differences in rainfall ID thresholds between these two areas can be predominantly attributed to wildfire-induced changes in hydraulic roughness. Results highlight the utility of thresholds based on dimensionless discharge relative to those based on rainfall intensity and also provide additional data that will help constrain general models for the prediction of rainfall ID thresholds.
Law and Life: Immigrant and Refugee Acts Amid White Nationalism

This editors’ introduction provides an overview of this special issue of Amerasia Journal. “Law and Life: Immigrant and Refugee Acts amid White Nationalism” addresses the racialized and intersectin...
Price Reversal and Drift Following Earnings Announcements

Systematic patterns in returns following earnings announcements are difficult to interpret. This study provides additional insights into the observation of price reversal and drift by examining the effects of both the method used to identify winners and losers and also the length of the subsequent period analyzed. The results show that both drift and reversal can be observed for the same sample and event. This evidence indicates that security price behavior following earnings announcements, especially in the short-term, depends not only on the earnings information, as in the drift studies, but also on the price reaction to the earnings information.
Comparison of the neuraminidase antigenicity in recently circulating influenza A and vaccine viruses

ABSTRACT Neuraminidase (NA or N) antigens in circulating influenza viruses are not extensively evaluated for vaccine strain selection like hemagglutinin (HA or H) even though viral-based influenza vaccines include the recommended strain NA in varying amounts. As NA can also elicit a protective response, we assessed the antigenic similarity of the NAs from human H1N1 and H3N2 viruses that were prevalent between September 2019 to December 2020 to NAs from several recently recommended vaccine strains. To eliminate the dependence on isolates, the enzyme-linked lectin assay for analyzing NA antigenicity was performed with reverse genetic viruses carrying the same HA. Our results show that ferret antisera against NAs from the recommended H1N1 and H3N2 vaccine strains for the 2020-21 northern hemisphere influenza season recognize and inhibit the most prevalent circulating N1s and N2s, suggesting the NAs from the influenza A vaccine and circulating strains are antigenically similar. Comparisons of the recent N2s also revealed a bias in the reactivity of NA antisera from the egg and cell-based H3N2 vaccine strains due to a C-terminal substitution, indicating the C-terminus can influence N2 antigenicity and should receive consideration during the H3N2 strain selection.