cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Isocyanide or nitrosyl complexation to hemes with varying tethered axial base ligand donors: synthesis and characterization

A series of ferrous-heme 2,6-dimethylphenyl isocyanide (DIMPI) and ferrous-heme mononitrosyl complexes have been synthesized and characterized. The heme portion of the complexes studied is varied with respect to the nature of the axial ligand, including complexes, where it is covalently tethered to the porphyrinate periphery. Reduced heme complexes, [(F8)Fe(II)], [(P(Py))Fe(II)], [(P(Im))Fe(II)], and [(P(ImH))Fe(II)], where F8 = tetrakis(2,6-difluorophenyl)-porphyrinate and P(Py), P(Im), and P(ImH) are partially fluorinated tetraaryl porphyrinates with covalently appended axial base pyridyl/imidazolyl or histamine moieties, were employed; P(ImH) is a new construct. Room temperature addition of DIMPI to these iron(II) complexes affords the bis-isocyanide species [(F8)Fe(II)-(DIMPI)2] in the case of [(F8)Fe(II)], while for the other hemes, mono-DIMPI compounds are obtained, [(P(Py))Fe(II)-(DIMPI)] [(2)-DIMPI], [(P(Im))Fe(II)-(DIMPI)] [(3)-DIMPI], and [(P(ImH))Fe(II)-(DIMPI)] [(4)-DIMPI]. The structures of complexes (3)-DIMPI and (4)-DIMPI have been determined by single crystal X-ray crystallography, where interesting H…F(porphryinate aryl group) interactions are observed. (19)F-NMR spectra determined for these complexes suggest that H…F(porphyrinate aryl groups) attractions also occur in solution, the H atom coming either from the DIMPI methyl groups or from a porphyinate axial base imidazole or porphyrinate pyrrole. Similarly, we have used nitrogen monoxide to generate ferrous-nitrosyl complexes, a five-coordinate species for F8, [(F8)Fe(II)-(NO)], or low-spin six-coordinate compounds [(P(Py))Fe(II)-(NO)], [(P(Im))Fe(II)-(NO)], and [(P(ImH))Fe(II)-(NO)]. The DIMPI and mononitrosyl complexes have also been characterized using UV-Vis, IR, (1)H-NMR, and EPR spectroscopies.
Interdiffusion in the Mg-Al System and Intrinsic Diffusion in β -Mg 2 Al 3

Solid-to-solid diffusion couples were assembled and annealed to examine the diffusion between pure Mg (99.96 pct) and Al (99.999 pct). Diffusion anneals were carried out at 573 K, 623 K and 673 K (300 °C, 350 °C and 400 °C) for 720, 360, and 240 hours, respectively. Optical and scanning electron microscopes were used to identify the formation of the intermetallic phases, γ-Mg17Al12, and β-Mg2Al3, as well as the absence of the e-Mg23Al30 in the diffusion couples. The thicknesses of the γ-Mg17Al12 and β-Mg2Al3 phases were measured and the parabolic growth constants were calculated to determine the activation energies for growth. Concentration profiles were determined with electron microprobe analysis using pure elemental standards. Composition-dependent interdiffusion coefficients in Mg-solid solution, γ-Mg17Al12, β-Mg2Al3, and Al-solid solutions were calculated based on the Boltzmann-Matano analysis. Integrated and average effective interdiffusion coefficients for each phase were also calculated, and the magnitude was the highest for the β-Mg2Al3 phase, followed by γ-Mg17Al12, Al-solid solution, and Mg-solid solution. Intrinsic diffusion coefficients based on Huemann’s analysis (e.g., marker plane) were determined for the ~ Mg-62 at. pct Al in the β-Mg2Al3 phase. Activation energies and the pre-exponential factors for the interdiffusion and intrinsic diffusion coefficients were calculated for the temperature range examined. The β-Mg2Al3 phase was found to have the lowest activation energies for growth and interdiffusion among all four phases studied. At the marker location in the β-Mg2Al3 phase, the intrinsic diffusion of Al was found to be faster than that of Mg. Extrapolations of the impurity diffusion coefficients in the terminal solid solutions were made and compared with the available self-diffusion and impurity diffusion data from the literature. Thermodynamic factor, tracer diffusion coefficients, and atomic mobilities at the marker plane composition were approximated using the available literature values of Mg activity in the β-Mg2Al3 phase.
Role of kinesin-1–based microtubule sliding in Drosophila nervous system development

The plus-end microtubule (MT) motor kinesin-1 is essential for normal development, with key roles in the nervous system. Kinesin-1 drives axonal transport of membrane cargoes to fulfill the metabolic needs of neurons and maintain synapses. We have previously demonstrated that kinesin-1, in addition to its well-established role in organelle transport, can drive MT-MT sliding by transporting "cargo" MTs along "track" MTs, resulting in dramatic cell shape changes. The mechanism and physiological relevance of this MT sliding are unclear. In addition to its motor domain, kinesin-1 contains a second MT-binding site, located at the C terminus of the heavy chain. Here, we mutated this C-terminal MT-binding site such that the ability of kinesin-1 to slide MTs is significantly compromised, whereas cargo transport is unaffected. We introduced this mutation into the genomic locus of kinesin-1 heavy chain (KHC), generating the Khc(mutA) allele. Khc(mutA) neurons displayed significant MT sliding defects while maintaining normal transport of many cargoes. Using this mutant, we demonstrated that MT sliding is required for axon and dendrite outgrowth in vivo. Consistent with these results, Khc(mutA) flies displayed severe locomotion and viability defects. To test the role of MT sliding further, we engineered a chimeric motor that actively slides MTs but cannot transport organelles. Activation of MT sliding in Khc(mutA) neurons using this chimeric motor rescued axon outgrowth in cultured neurons and in vivo, firmly establishing the role of sliding in axon outgrowth. These results demonstrate that MT sliding by kinesin-1 is an essential biological phenomenon required for neuronal morphogenesis and normal nervous system development.
Infusional Adriamycin Based Chemotherapy Significantly Improves the Survival of Human T-Cell Lymphotropic Virus-I Induced Acute Type Adult T-Cell Leukemia Lymphoma.

Abstract Introduction: In this retrospective analysis, we provide a comprehensive account of the pathophysiology, clinical course and outcomes with various therapeutic regimens in HTLV-1 associated Adult T-cell Lymphoma/Leukemia- The Brooklyn Experience. Patients and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of all patients identified as having acute type Human T-cell Lymphotropic Virus (HTLV-I) associated Adult T-cell Leukemia/Lymphoma (ATLL), from 1995 to 2005. The diagnosis was made according to REAL and WHO classification and based on clinical presentation, tissue biopsy and positive HTLV-I serology. Since all patients expired during the study, we used analysis of variance to examine the mean survival of these patients and the relationship between types of therapy and the survival. Results: We identified 44 patients with diagnosis of acute type ATLL. The most common disease presentation was lymphomatous in 70% (n=31) and leukemic presentation in 8% (n=3) both leukemia and lymphomatous presentation at diagnosis was seen in 22% (n=10) of patients. The mean survival for the entire group of patients was 31 weeks. The median survival was 16 weeks (range from 1 to 314 weeks). Patients who presented initially without hypercalcemia had a mean survival that was significantly higher than the patients with hypercalcemia 54 weeks versus 20 weeks, p Conclusions: Hypercalcemia portends poor prognosis in all forms of HTLV-1 associated ATLL and should be included in any risk stratification schema for this disease. Our review demonstrates a statistically significant improvement in median overall survival with infusional adriamycin based chemotherapy over traditional CHOP, CVP or the AZT and interferon combination. This superiority in outcomes was evident in patients with or without hypercalcemia at presentation. Although overall survival remains relatively low in the acute form of this disease and most patients remain incurable with current therapies, our findings suggest that the incorporation of infusional adriamycin based regimens in future treatment modalities to include specific and non-specific molecular targeted therapies, would be a prudent strategy in development of more effective therapies for this disease.
An Application of Number Theory to Cryptology.

What appears to be nonsense is, in reality, a message that was enciphered using prin ciples of number theory. This article dis cusses an application of number theory to cryptology that can be used with secondary school students. The first part of this arti cle offers some background on the topic. The remainder suggests an explanation for the use of number theory in cryptology for high school students.
Anomalies in RLIN Hebraica Records: Reflections of a Recent Arrival on the Cataloging Scene

Hebraica records on the Research Libraries Information Network feature many inconsistencies in romanization, descriptive cataloging, and form of heading. The categories of inconsistency are outlined, and examples of the variations found on RLIN are provided and discussed from the perspective of a novice cataloger. Classic Hebrew grammar and Biblical sources are often cited as authorities for the correct forms, which may not be found in Library of Congress records. Local policies of the Jewish Theological Seminary regarding name and subject headings for Judaica are included.
Identification of Clinically Relevant Mycobacterial Species After Extended Incubation Times in the BACTEC MGIT System.

Objectives Traditionally, for mycobacterial culture both solid and broth media are used and routinely held for 6 weeks minimum to optimize yield. We retrospectively reviewed all positive mycobacterial cultures over a 12-month period to assess growth kinetics of clinically relevant isolates. Methods From January to December 2015, 658 positive mycobacteria cultures by solid (7H11 and 7H10 plates) and/or broth (BACTEC MGIT) media were identified and reviewed. Results In broth-only cultures, 21 of 153 (13.7%) from 21 patients were positive after 28 days' incubation. Subsequent chart review revealed the following species: 11 Mycobacterium avium intracellulare complex (MAI), five Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB), and five other non-MTB/MAI mycobacteria. Two of the cases of MTB were first-time isolates, and 11.4% of MTB-positive cultures became positive after 4 weeks' incubation. Conclusions These data provide strong evidence reaffirming that clinically meaningful results are frequently detected after extended incubation times by broth-only methods, including several MTB isolates.
Thermodynamic investigation of uranyl vanadate minerals: Implications for structural stability

Understanding the crystal chemistry, materials properties, and thermodynamics of uranyl minerals and their synthetic analogs is an essential step for predicting and controlling the long-term environmental behavior of uranium. Uranyl vanadate minerals are relatively insoluble and widely disseminated within U ore deposits and mine and mill tailings. Pure uranyl vanadate mineral analogs were synthesized for investigation using high-temperature drop solution calorimetry. Calculated standard-state enthalpies of formation were found to be −4928.52 ± 13.90, −5748.81 ± 13.59, and −6402.88 ± 21.01, kJ/mol for carnotite, curienite, and francevillite, respectively. Enthalpies of formation from binary oxides for uranyl vanadate minerals exhibit a positive linear correlation as a function of the acidity of oxides. Normalized charge deficiency per anion (NCDA) is presented to relate bonding requirements of the structural units and interstitial complexes. An exponential correlation was observed between NCDA and energetic stability (enthalpy of formation from binary oxides) for the studied minerals. Additionally, NCDA and oxide acidity exhibit an exponential correlation where decreasing oxide acidity results in an exponential decrease in NCDA. The number of occurrences of uranyl vanadate mineral species are found to correlate with both enthalpy of formation from oxides and NCDA.
The western front – landscape, tourism and heritage

Western front, the published results of Stephen Miles’ long-time studies, is an outstanding contribution to the growing body of literature on heritage tourism to World War (WW) I battleground sites...
Abstract P363: Visceral, but Not Subcutaneous Adiposity by Computed Tomography is Associated With Increased Aortic Wall Thickness in Psoriasis Patients

Introduction: Patients with psoriasis (PSO), an inflammatory skin disease, experience increased cardiovascular disease and obesity. Traditional measures of obesity, such as BMI and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), do not fully capture the increased cardiovascular risk. Assessment of adipose tissue distribution via CT scan enables characterization of visceral adiposity (VAT) versus subcutaneous adiposity (SAT), which is clinically useful as excess VAT is known to be associated with cardiovascular events. Aortic Wall Thickness (AWT) is a validated measure of subclinical atherosclerosis. However, the relationship between adiposity distribution and AWT is unknown. Hypothesis: We hypothesized that VAT, but not SAT, BMI, or WHR, would be associated with increased AWT in PSO patients. Methods: Consecutive PSO patients (n=164) underwent quantification of VAT and SAT via CT, and AWT via MRI of the descending aorta. Interrelationships were analyzed via multivariable regression. Results: Patients were middle-aged (mean 50.4), predominantly male (56%), and were at low cardiovascular risk (median Framingham risk 3), despite high prevalence of hyperlipidemia (47%). VAT was significantly associated with AWT (β=0.18, p=0.04), SAT, BMI, or WHR did not demonstrate similar association. This association persisted beyond adjustment for SAT, Framingham score, insulin resistance, and systolic BP (β=0.30, p=0.03). Conclusions: Visceral adiposity demonstrated an association with AWT, a marker of early atherosclerosis, whereas subcutaneous adiposity, BMI, and WHR did not. These findings add to a growing body of literature that visceral fat and its assessment may provide incremental data for risk of subclinical CVD.
Emerging M&S application in risk management

There has been compelling signs of the great potential of building further synergy with academics, researchers, and industry practitioners from the areas of Modeling and Simulation (M&S) managing risk events. This paper provides an introduction to risk management and how M&S has permeated the risk management process. The trend has been to harness the advantages of M&S tools and techniques in terms of efficiency and effectiveness in managing risks. However, the more important contribution of M&S may be in how it provides a way for specialists in various disciplines or industries interact to manage risks that require multi-disciplinary approach. This becomes possible due to the capabilities of many M&S tools and techniques to be used to recognize the various objectives in risk management scenarios, as well as the need for multiple and non-commensurate performance parameters.
Digital Subtraction Macrodacryocystography: A New Method of Lacrimal System Imaging

A series of patients with obstructive epiphora was evaluated by a new method of dacryocystography. The technique involved intubation and injection of radiopaque contrast material into each lacrimal system under the control of direct sequential digitally subtracted (realtime) imaging. Simultaneous rapid sequence digital subtraction macrodacryocystography yields instantaneous high resolution magnified bone-free radiographs of the lacrimal drainage system.
Autoradiography of Whole Animals as an Experimental Tool in Pharmacological Research

Pharmacology is the study of drugs and their action on living systems. Elucidation of the mechanism of drug action frequently requires information on distribution patterns, metabolic fate, and excretion. The widely used method for the study of these processes involves sacrificing the animal by exsanguination or otherwise, dissecting out the organs of interest at room temperature, and homogenization, followed by assay for the drug and its metabolites by appropriate method. This approach suffers from certain limitations. The technique of whole-body autoradiography developed in Sweden by Ullberg and colleagues [1] seems to offer several advantages over the conventional method and is particularly suited for the study of the fate of radioisotopically labeled substances in experimental animals in the following respects: (1) It makes it possible to study the relative distribution of the drug in all the areas of the body rather than in just a few conveniently isolable organs, which is the case with the conventional method. (2) The secondary changes that may result in the period of dissection at room temperature are considerably minimized. (3) Short-time studies which cannot be done with any degree of assurance using the conventional method can easily be performed by the method of whole-body autoradiography. (4) It shows the blood-tissue barriers to drugs when such barriers exist and indicates the various excretory pathways. (5) Most important of all is the fact that it brings out facets which are often not apparent when conventional methods are employed, since all areas are revealed in the same experiment with or without conscious selection.
The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator and Career Obstacles.

Regression analyses revealed relationships between clients' Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI; Myers & McCaulley, 1985) scores and their career obstacles, especially for men; in 2 of 6 instances co...
Speech intelligibility testing of general service respirators

The communication performance of three general service respirators was evaluated. The evaluation procedure followed a NIOSH standard test procedure which is based on a modified rhyme test (MRT), wherein human participants are placed in a controlled acoustic environment and are asked to read out lists of test words. The number of words correctly identified by a listener panel when the talker is wearing the respirator is compared to the number of words correctly identified without the respirator, giving an overall performance rating. During the implementation of the experimental procedure, it was noted that the NIOSH test procedure is ambiguous on a number of potentially significant acoustical issues, e.g., the reverberation time of the test environment, the background noise spectrum at the listener position, and the talker voice level. This talk will present details of the study and discuss the relevant issues related to speech intelligibility testing of respirators that were evaluated as part of this project.The communication performance of three general service respirators was evaluated. The evaluation procedure followed a NIOSH standard test procedure which is based on a modified rhyme test (MRT), wherein human participants are placed in a controlled acoustic environment and are asked to read out lists of test words. The number of words correctly identified by a listener panel when the talker is wearing the respirator is compared to the number of words correctly identified without the respirator, giving an overall performance rating. During the implementation of the experimental procedure, it was noted that the NIOSH test procedure is ambiguous on a number of potentially significant acoustical issues, e.g., the reverberation time of the test environment, the background noise spectrum at the listener position, and the talker voice level. This talk will present details of the study and discuss the relevant issues related to speech intelligibility testing of respirators that were evaluated as part of this project.
Marital Satisfaction and Sexting Behavior Among Individuals in Relationships

We sought to understand that individuals who sext in their marital relationships by looking at sexting behaviors in relation to both relationship status and marital satisfaction. Three hundred twen...
DIFFERENTIAL GENE EXPRESSION IN THE PREFRONTAL CORTEX ASSOCIATED WITH SUICIDE

Background Suicide is one of the top five causes of death for individuals between the ages of 10 and 54; however, unlike many other causes of death, it is preventable if recognized and treated. Evidence from family studies suggest that suicide has a genetic basis, though specific associated genes are less well understood. Although suicide is a complicated, multi-factorial behavior, one important associated endophenotype is trait impulsivity. Trait impulsivity and behavioral inhibition is controlled by the prefrontal cortex. While the complexity and circuitry of these regions are still being explored, two regions, the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) and the Orbitofrontal Cortex (OFC) are consistently associated with impulsive action and loss of impulse control as well as suicidal behavior. Methods The dlPFC and OFC was isolated from 60 demographically similar that had either died from suicide or from natural causes. A psychological autopsy was performed on all individuals, assessing for major depressive disorder and other psychiatric disease. Complete screening was also performed for the Behavioral and Emotional Impulsivity subscales of the SIDP-IV and the MLES. Total RNA was isolated from these regions and next generation sequencing was performed using an Illumina NextSeq. 500 with a 150 bp paired-end protocol. Data was processed using the ‘tuxedo’ pipeline and functional enrichment was performed with Ingenuity Pathway Analysis. Results As with previous studies, an association was observed between behavioral and emotional impulsivity as measured by the SIDP-IV and suicidal behavior. This association held when controlling for gender, alcohol or tobacco use, or major depressive disorder. RNA quality and subsequent next generation sequencing was unaffected by differences in post-mortem death interval, tissue pH, or age at death. Differential gene expression was observed between individuals who died from suicide and those who died from natural causes, regardless of whether the latter were diagnosed with major depressive disorder. These genes partially, though not entirely, overlapped with genes associated with behavioral and emotional impulsivity independent of cause of death. Additional work is ongoing further characterizing the interactions between these factors and their impact on gene expression. Discussion Identifying individuals most at risk for suicide allows for proactive intervention that can directly save lives. By focusing on impulsivity as an endophenotype, it is possible to better identify genetic effects. By using gene expression analyses, it is possible to better place these genetic effects in context. This study allows for a better understanding of the molecular factors underlying executive control in the prefrontal cortex and offers insight into the dysregulation that occurs leading to suicidal behaviors.
Estimating Annual Births to Hepatitis B Surface Antigen–Positive Women in the United States by Using Data on Maternal Country of Birth:

Objective:A national estimate of births to hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)–positive women can help public health programs plan surveillance, educational, and outreach activities to improve iden...
Ventriculo-amniotic shunting for severe fetal ventriculomegaly.

Introduction Severe fetal cerebral ventriculomegaly, observed in about 1 in 1000 newborns, is associated with a high risk of perinatal death and neurodevelopmental delay in survivors. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of ventriculo-amniotic shunting for drainage of severe fetal cerebral ventriculomegaly and the neurodevelopment of survivors at the age of 2 years. Material and methods This was a retrospective study of 44 fetuses with severe bilateral ventriculomegaly treated with ventriculo-amniotic shunting in a tertiary fetal therapy center between 2010 and 2015. Results Shunt insertion was successfully carried out at a median gestational age of 25 weeks (range 20-33 weeks). There were three fetal deaths within 24 hours of the procedure and 41 live births at a median gestational age of 37 weeks (range 28-39 weeks). Neurodevelopment at 2 years of age was evaluated using the Bayley scale in the 38 survivors. In the 27 cases with isolated ventriculomegaly 19 (70.4%; 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 51.5%-84.2%) had normal or mild neurodevelopmental delay and 8 (29.6%; 95% CI 15.6%-48.5%) were moderately or severely delayed. In the 11 with non-isolated ventriculomegaly 2 (18.2%; 95% CI 5.1%-4.8%) had normal or mild neurodevelopmental delay and 9 (81.8%; 95% CI 52.3%-94.9%) babies were moderately or severely delayed. Conclusions Ventriculo-amniotic shunting is an option for the management of severe ventriculomegaly and results in normalization of the ventricular diameter. However, a high proportion of survivors have neurodevelopmental delay and the possible beneficial effect of ventriculo-amniotic shunting needs to be assessed by randomized studies.
The advantages and disadvantages of self-insight: New psychological and neural perspectives

Abstract People quickly assess the honesty of others but how honest are they with themselves and does it matter for their success and happiness? Our understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of self-insight is currently clouded by a number of measurement issues in the existing literature on self-evaluation and related constructs such as authenticity. Most studies do not use independent sources to evaluate self-concept, objectivity of the self-concept, and the consequence of their discrepancy. Additionally, daily diary studies indicate that research on related constructs such as authenticity may fail to capture accurate self-insight as intended. Furthermore, research drawing on neuropsychological populations, fMRI with healthy populations, and computational modeling has shown that not all self-insight failures are alike even if they appear the same at the level of behavioral measurement. For example, the neural profiles of overly positive self-evaluations that are driven by the desire to defend self-esteem are predictable and distinguishable from neural profiles of positive self-evaluation arising from limited cognitive engagement. Therefore, future research must aim for more rigorous measurement to understand the underlying cause of self-insight failure (rather than just identifying a shortcoming) to meaningfully understand the benefits and costs of different types of self-insight failure. The current research does not allow us to confidently conclude that self-insight has advantages over some types of self-insight failure (or vice versa) and we conclude by calling for more systematic investigation of why, when, where, and for whom self-insight is costly or beneficial.
Inorganic Nanostructures with Strong Chiroptical Activity

Chirality is one of the most remarkable geometrical properties with a variety of manifestations in the material world. The discovery of chirality in inorganic nanostructures spurred the rapid growt...
Nrf2 Activator PB125() as a Potential Therapeutic Agent against COVID-19

Nrf2 is a transcription factor that regulates cellular redox balance and the expression of a wide array of genes involved in immunity and inflammation, including antiviral actions. Nrf2 activity declines with age, making the elderly more susceptible to oxidative stress-mediated diseases, which include type 2 diabetes, chronic inflammation, and viral infections. Published evidence suggests that Nrf2 activity may regulate important mechanisms affecting viral susceptibility and replication. We examined gene expression levels by GeneChip microarray and by RNA-seq assays. We found that the potent Nrf2-activating composition PB125® downregulates ACE2 and TMPRSS2 mRNA expression in human liver-derived HepG2 cells. ACE2 is a surface receptor and TMPRSS2 activates the spike protein for SARS-CoV-2 entry into host cells. Furthermore, in endotoxin-stimulated primary human pulmonary artery endothelial cells, we report the marked downregulation by PB125 of 36 genes encoding cytokines. These include IL-1-beta, IL-6, TNF-α, the cell adhesion molecules ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and E-selectin, and a group of IFN-γ-induced genes. Many of these cytokines have been specifically identified in the “cytokine storm” observed in fatal cases of COVID-19, suggesting that Nrf2 activation may significantly decrease the intensity of the storm.
Using Reinforcement Learning Agents to Analyze Player Experience

Analyzing player experience often requires collecting lots of gameplay data from human players, which is labor-intensive. In this paper, we present an approach to classify player experience using AI agents. A deep Reinforcement AI agent is deployed to learn abstract representation of game states. Then, machine learning models are trained with the abstract representation to evaluate the player experience. It shows that the abstract representation learned by AI agents can provide important information about how game levels are perceived by players. And the abstract representation can help machine learning models to classify whether player experience is enjoyable.
Field Guide to the Flora of the San Gabriel Mountains

Mark Dion and Margaret C. Adler. 2020. The Perilous Texas Adventures of Mark Dion. (ISBN-13: 978-0-300-24619-3, hbk). Published by Amon Carter Museum of American Art, 3501 Camp Bowie Boulevard, Fort Worth, Texas 76107-2695, U.S.A. Distributed by Yale University Press, 302 Temple Street, P.O. Box 209040, New Haven, Connecticut 06520-9040, U.S.A. (Orders: cartermuseum.org, yalebooks.com/art). $40.00 US, 168 pp., color illustrations, photographs, 9¼" × 11".
Spectroscopic Characterization and Molecular Dynamics Simulation of Tin Dioxide, Pristine and Functionalized Graphene Nanoplatelets

Tin dioxide (SnO2) is a semiconductor used in lithium batteries, solar cells, as a photocatalyst, and for optronic device applications, due to its large direct band gap, high electron mobility, thermal stability, large absorbance and storage of light features, and cost-effectiveness. The present study concentrates on SnO2 as a gas sensing material because of its enhanced selectivity for combustible and toxic gases. Our spectroscopic investigation focuses on tetragonal rutile SnO2, aimed at studying its physical and chemical properties for gas sensors. We have characterized SnO2 using X-Ray diffraction (XRD) to confirm its tetragonal rutile structure and calculate its crystallite size. Additionally, Raman spectroscopy with a heated cell has been used to obtain the Raman active vibrational modes in the temperature range 303.15–443.15 °K in order to study the anharmonic effects. We have indeed observed a red shift in the Raman spectra for the A1g and B2g vibrational bands, while the Eg band exhibited no measurable change due to the temperature increase. Furthermore, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) has been used to determine the surface morphology of SnO2 and the 3-dimensional view of an individual spherical grain. Graphene nanoplatelets (GnPs) have also been investigated for toxic gas sensing applications due to their lightweight, large surface area and low cost of fabrication. The presence of functional groups (e.g. ammonia, fluorocarbon and carboxyl) in the nanoplatelets enhances the surface interactions between the molecules being sensed (e.g. NOx and SO2) and the nanoplatelets themselves, thereby improving the sensing abilities of the GnP-based sensors. We have utilized SEM, Raman and XRD techniques for surface and structural characterization of the pristine and functionalized GnPs. Our results show that the major vibrational modes of graphene, namely the D, G and 2D peaks, are observed in the Raman spectra of both pristine and functionalized GnPs. The increase in the ID/IG values for functionalized GnPs reflects a smaller crystallite size upon functionalization of the pristine GnPs, which is also supported by our XRD results. A red shift in the frequency of the 2D peak is observed upon an increase in carboxyl functionalization from 7 wt% to 35 wt% because the carboxyl group behaves as an electron donor (n-type dopant) when attached to the edges of the graphene lattice. In addition, we have utilized MD simulation using the LAMMPS software code to study the vibrational properties of GnPs for better understanding of its Raman properties suitable for the development of gas sensors.
Generalized Frequency Distributions for Environmental and Water Engineering

A multitude of processes in hydrology and environmental engineering are either random or entail random components which are characterized by random variables. These variables are described by frequency distributions. This book provides an overview of different systems of frequency distributions, their properties, and applications to the fields of water resources and environmental engineering. A variety of systems are covered, including the Pearson system, Burr system, and systems commonly applied in economics, such as the D'Addario, Dagum, Stoppa, and Esteban systems. The latter chapters focus on the Singh system and the frequency distributions deduced from Bessel functions, maximum entropy theory, and the transformations of random variables. The final chapter introduces the genetic theory of frequency distributions. Using real-world data, this book provides a valuable reference for researchers, graduate students, and professionals interested in frequency analysis.
Targeting TMEM16A-encoded Ca2+-activated Cl− channels: a new paradigm for antihypertensive therapy?

Hypertension is the leading risk factor for the development of heart diseases and stroke. Many hypertensive patients experience undesirable side effects to conventional antihypertensive pharmacotherapy. Cil et al. documented the antihypertensive profile of a novel molecule, TMinh-23 (2-bromodifluoroacetylamino-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-4H-cyclohepta[b]thiophene-3-carboxylic acid o-tolylamide), in the spontaneously hypertensive rat model of systemic hypertension. They showed that this agent reduces blood pressure by inhibiting transmembrane member 16A–encoded calcium-activated chloride channels in vascular myocytes from resistance arteries. If validated, TMinh-23 could become a useful clinical tool.
Vessel Motions and Work Interruptions Aboard a Fast Rescue Craft

A set of field trials were carried out aboard a Canadian Coast Guard fast rescue Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat. The vessel was outfitted with a data acquisition system to collect vessel and engine performance data and trialled in three wave conditions (approx. Beaufort 2 to 7). This paper focusses on the methodologies and results for calculating and investigating Motion-Induced Interruptions (MIIs). MIIs due to lateral and longitudinal overbalancing and sliding were investigated using the counting of motion events which are expected to cause an interruption, supported by a statistical analysis and examination of the distribution of the MII data. We conclude that MII assessments of small, light, high-speed craft such as the one studied should include longitudinal acceleration and pitch angle, typically assumed to be non-influential in MII assessments. Statistical treatments have promise for analysis of field-acquired MII data.
Nurses' Priorities for Improving Pregnancy and Birth Care for Individuals with Opioid use Disorder.

INTRODUCTION The motivation to seek treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD) can increase during the perinatal period. However, several identified barriers, such as poor access to services, lack of trained providers, stigma, and legal ramifications of OUD, limit the ability for individuals with OUD to receive safe and supportive care during pregnancy and birth. During the birth hospital stay in particular, nurses provide the majority of care for pregnant and birthing families. We aimed to engage nurses, with experience caring for pregnant and postpartum individuals with OUD, in priority setting as a way to identify areas of need in the current health care systems. METHODS Using community-engaged priority setting methods, we recruited a sample of 47 nurses (phase 1) and 20 nurses (phase 2), including nurse-midwives and other advanced practice nurses, at a statewide nursing conference, who reported regularly providing care for pregnant and postpartum individuals with OUD. We invited participants to submit questions and concerns regarding the provision of care for individuals with OUD (phase 1). A selection of those who submitted questions attended a focus group to rank and prioritize submitted questions into a set of priorities for research, policy, and care improvement (phase 2). RESULTS In phase 1, participants submitted a total of 165 questions and concerns. In phase 2, participants prioritized the following: funding to support improvements in OUD care in the perinatal period, increased access to services, supportive housing for individuals in recovery, standardization of care for individuals with OUD, and efforts to destigmatize care. DISCUSSION Nurses who work with pregnant and postpartum individuals with OUD have a unique insight as to how health care providers, including midwives, can better support this community and should be engaged setting priorities for research, changes to policy, and improvement in care.
Characterization of childhood acute leukemia with multiple myeloid and lymphoid markers at diagnosis and at relapse [see comments]

To define the clinical and biologic significance of childhood acute mixed-lineage leukemia diagnosed by stringent criteria, we studied 25 cases of acute lymphoblastic leukemia expressing greater than or equal to 2 myeloid-associated antigens (My+ ALL), and 16 cases of acute myeloid leukemia expressing greater than or equal to 2 lymphoid associated antigens (Ly+ AML). These cases represented 6.1% of 410 newly diagnosed ALLs (two treatment protocols) and 16.8% of 95 AMLs (two protocols). T-lineage--associated antigens were identified in 9 of the My+ ALL cases and in 14 of those classified as Ly+ AML; all but 1 of the 19 cases that could be subclassified had an early thymocyte stage of differentiation. The My+ ALL cases had an increased frequency of French-American-British (FAB) L2 morphology (36%); the Ly+ AML cases were characterized by FAB M1 or M2 morphology, low levels of myeloperoxidase reactivity and combined populations of myeloperoxidase- positive large blasts and small blasts generally of hand-mirror morphology. Karyotypic abnormalities included t(9;22)(q34;q11) in three cases of My+ ALL, 11q23 translocations in two cases of My+ ALL, and 14q32 translocations in three My+ ALL and five Ly+ AML cases. Mixed- lineage expression lacked prognostic significance in either ALL or AML; however, the findings indicate that some patients with Ly+ AML may respond to prednisone, vincristine, and L-asparaginase after failing on protocols for myeloid leukemia. At relapse, two My+ ALLs had converted to AML and two Ly+ AMLs to ALL; one case in each group showed complete replacement of the original karyotype. Acute mixed-lineage leukemia does not adequately describe the heterogeneity of the cases identified in this study and should be replaced by a set of more restrictive terms that indicate the unique biologic features of these leukemias.
Endotoxin fails to induce IFN-gamma in endotoxin-tolerant mice: deficiencies in both IL-12 heterodimer production and IL-12 responsiveness.

Mice exposed to sublethal endotoxemia develop short-term endotoxin tolerance, a state characterized by decreased monokine production and enhanced protection against endotoxic lethality. We confirmed that TNF-α production is markedly impaired in endotoxin-tolerant mice and additionally found 2- to 6-fold decreases in serum IFN-γ in these animals following endotoxin challenge. The IFN-γ deficiency of endotoxin tolerance correlated with 8-fold decreases in the bioactive p40/p35 heterodimeric form of IL-12. In contrast, total circulating IL-12 p40 was reduced by only 30–50%. Endotoxin-tolerant mice were less responsive to IL-12 than control mice, as evidenced by 3-fold lower levels of IFN-γ inducible in vivo when rIL-12 was administered at the time of endotoxin challenge. Similarly, spleen cell cultures of endotoxin-tolerant mice produced 3-fold less IFN-γ in the presence of optimal concentrations of both IL-12 and IL-18. Finally, levels of IL-12R β2 subunit mRNA and the percent composition of NK lymphocytes in the spleen were both decreased in endotoxin-tolerant mice relative to controls. We conclude that endotoxin-tolerant mice are profoundly impaired in their ability to produce IFN-γ in response to endotoxin and that this is associated with acquired defects in both the production of circulating IL-12 heterodimer response and the response to IL-12 by NK cells.
Treatment of atopic dermatitis: role of tacrolimus ointment as a topical noncorticosteroidal therapy.

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic, relapsing form of eczema characterized by scaling, itchy, inflamed skin that can be triggered by an interplay of genetic, immunologic, and environmental factors. Immune dysregulation appears to play an important role in the cause of atopic dermatitis. Topical corticosteroid agents have been the mainstay of therapy for atopic dermatitis because of their broad immunomodulatory effects. However, topical corticosteroid agents are not ideal agents because when used over the long term, they may cause cutaneous atrophy and immunosuppression. Systemic corticosteroidal agents, certain antihistiminic agents, systemic cyclosporin, and phototherapy have proven value in treating patients with atopic dermatitis. In the search for a noncorticosteroidal topical agent, tacrolimus stands out as being uniquely suited for this condition. Tacrolimus affects a broad spectrum of inflammatory mediators and processes known to be relevant to atopic dermatitis pathogenesis. Tacrolimus demonstrates good percutaneous penetration and appears to have no potential to cause cutaneous atrophy. There are multiple double-blind, controlled studies demonstrating the safety and efficacy of this agent in treating atopic dermatitis. The agent may be of particular benefit in children, among whom an alternative to the chronic use of corticosteroid agents, either topically or systemically, is highly desirable. (J Allergy Clin Immunol 1999;104:S126-30.)
Cytochalasin D inhibits penetration of hamster eggs by guinea pig and human spermatozoa

Fertilization experiments using zona-free hamster eggs and spermatozoa from both guinea pig and human were conducted in the presence of cytochalasin D to evaluate the possible role of actin filaments in fertilization processes. When the actin filament inhibitor, cytochalasin D, was added to fertilization media at concentrations of 10 to 30 microM, penetration of eggs was significantly inhibited. Preincubation of the eggs with cytochalasin D and washing prior to addition of spermatozoa had no effect on penetration as quantitated by the number of swollen heads in the egg cytoplasm. However, spermatozoa preincubated with cytochalasin D and subsequently washed prior to egg addition showed reduced penetration of the same magnitude as when spermatozoa and eggs were coincubated with cytochalasin D. Both the percentage of zona-free eggs showing decondensed sperm heads and the penetration indices (total decondensed spermatozoa/total eggs) were significantly affected when spermatozoa were exposed to cytochalasin D. The DMSO vehicle used to dissolve cytochalasin D had little effect on the number of decondensed heads. When the concentration of cytochalasin D was increased (DMSO remaining constant) in human sperm experiments, percent penetration decreased and progressively fewer decondensed spermatozoa were recorded, indicating dose-responsiveness to cytochalasin D. Motility parameters of human spermatozoa were not altered at any of the concentrations of cytochalasin D tested. Neither guinea pig sperm motility nor acrosome reaction was altered significantly by cytochalasin D or the DMSO vehicle. These experiments suggest that cytochalasin D may be an inhibitor of some fertilization processes such as sperm penetration or sperm head decondensation.
Cost analysis of objective resident cataract surgery assessments

Purpose To compare 8 ophthalmology resident surgical training tools to determine which is most cost effective. Setting University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA. Design Retrospective evaluation of technology. Methods A cost-analysis model was created to compile all relevant costs in running each tool in a medium-sized ophthalmology program. Quantitative cost estimates were obtained based on cost of tools, cost of time in evaluations, and supply and maintenance costs. Results For wet laboratory simulation, Eyesi was the least expensive cataract surgery simulation method; however, it is only capable of evaluating simulated cataract surgery rehearsal and requires supplementation with other evaluative methods for operating room performance and for noncataract wet lab training and evaluation. The most expensive training tool was the Eye Surgical Skills Assessment Test (ESSAT). The 2 most affordable methods for resident evaluation in operating room performance were the Objective Assessment of Skills in Intraocular Surgery (OASIS) and Global Rating Assessment of Skills in Intraocular Surgery (GRASIS). Conclusions Cost-based analysis of ophthalmology resident surgical training tools are needed so residency programs can implement tools that are valid, reliable, objective, and cost effective. There is no perfect training system at this time. Financial Disclosure No author has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.
Evaluation of Data Modeling

This paper presents a concept for the evaluation of data modeling which is based on existing theoretical approaches and an empirical study conducted by the author. The main results of this study with respect to evaluation suggest to focus more on organizational issues of modeling, more on process instead of product quality, to consider different application scenarios of data modeling as well as to distinguish the enterprise-wide evaluation of data modeling as an organizational function from the evaluation of single projects using data modeling. The concept consists of recommendations for the evaluation procedure, persons involved, instruments, the design of important organizational dimensions as well as concrete process measures.
Shaking without quaking

The idea that Earth can ring like a bell was proposed more than 80 years ago; since then, geoscientists have debated what mechanisms can set Earth ringing. In his Research Commentary, Kanamori discusses recent research, including a research report in the same issue by Suda et al ., showing that these free oscillations can be driven by both earthquakes and nonearthquake forces such as atmospheric disturbances.
Unmanned Ground Vehicle control technology

Summary form only given. The US Army Tank-Automotive Command (TACOM) is support of the Department of Defense (DOD) Unmanned Ground Vehicle (HGV) program is executing an evolutionary program leading to intelligent UGV mobility and mission performance. The UGV Control Testbed (UGVCT) is the focus of TACOM research efforts, providing an incubator/field laboratory for the evolution and evaluation of advanced UGV technology. UGVCT is an integrated approach that allows researchers to assess UGV system impact on research in soldier-machine interface, communication, navigation, mission package automation, and systems architectures. The UGVCT has three distinct mobility levels: teleoperation, computer-aided remote driving, and autonomous road following. The UGVCT has three control stations with the capability to simultaneously control up to four UGVs. This capability will assist in defining research areas for DOD Demo II, which focuses on the demonstration of multiple UGV control. The UGVCT provides unique multifaceted control technology options which will be evaluated under DOD Demo I. >