cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Stopping times of distributed consensus protocols: A probabilistic analysis

Abstract Given a model where each processor remains correct for an exponentially distributed random time and then fails independently of the others, we characterize system executions that permit the processors to reach consensus. We show that, with nonzero probability, a protocol can achieve consensus even during executions where the number of actual processors to fail exceeds its resiliency.
Engineering surface roughness to manipulate droplets in microfluidic systems

Systematic variation of surface roughness has been employed to create microstructured guide rails for droplets propelled by vibration. The wetting mechanism of rough hydrophobic surfaces has been utilized to design surface energy gradients that form the guide-rails. Micro fabricated pillars in silicon have been employed to control the roughness which determines the contact angle and thus the surface energy. Droplets were moved down the surface energy gradient overcoming hysteresis by supplying energy through mechanical vibration. This work introduces roughness as a new control variable in any scheme of manipulating droplets, and presents fabricated structures and experimental results that validate the approach.
In vivo time-resolved optical spectroscopy of mice

A time-correlated single photon counting (TCSPC) system has been developed for use with living specimens as part of a fluorescence-mediated molecular tomography scanner. This system has been used to measure the bulk optical properties of mouse tissues. Absorption coefficients were found to be 0.15 - 0.3 cm−1, while reduced scattering coefficients were measured to be 1.5 - 5.0 cm−1. The variability of the results recommend the determination of optical properties for each subject in order to improve the accuracy of fluorescence tomography reconstruction.
Reading Research in People with Visual Impairments

Reading is often one of the first visual tasks that is compromised when visual function is impaired. However, reading is a complex sensorimotor, cognitive, and even possibly eyehand coordination in people with visual impairments. Psychophysics research has begun the process of understanding the visual function requirements and environmental conditions for reading with visual impairments. The hope is that this research will enhance the ability of clinicians and rehabilitation specialists to provide rehabilitation strategies for people with visual disabilities in reading.
Cardio-protection afforded by β-blockade is maintained during resistance exercise

Abstract Objectives Whether or not the cardio-protective effect of β-adrenergic blockade is retained during resistance exercise has not been systematically evaluated. Therefore the purpose of this study was to measure selected cardiorespiratory responses to isometric exercise involving hand-gripping, single-leg extension, or double-leg dead-lift, under placebo (control), β1-selective (atenolol), and non-selective (propranolol) adrenergic blockade conditions. Design Eleven young male adults were evaluated in a randomized, double-blinded, repeated measures study design and performed all three exercise modalities at 30% of maximal voluntary contraction under placebo, atenolol and propranolol conditions. Methods Heart rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, rate-pressure product, oxygen uptake, cardiac output, stroke volume and total peripheral resistance were directly measured or calculated at rest and during the third minute of each of the three exercise modes. Results Irrespective of drug condition, a graded pressor response was observed going from rest to exercise so that rest Conclusions The findings indicate that cardio-protection afforded by selective or non-selective β-blockade at rest is preserved during isometric exercise and even enhanced once heart rate increases above 100 beats min−1.
Resistive-pulse detection of multilamellar liposomes.

The resistive-pulse method was used to monitor the pressure-driven translocation of multilamellar liposomes with radii between 190 and 450 nm through a single conical nanopore embedded in a glass membrane. Liposomes (0% and 5% 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phospho-l-serine (sodium salt) in 1,2-dilauroyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine or 0%, 5%, and 9% 1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phospho(1′-rac-glycerol) (sodium salt) in 1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine) were prepared by extrusion through a polycarbonate membrane. Liposome translocation through a glass nanopore was studied as a function of nanopore size and the temperature relative to the lipid bilayer transition temperature, Tc. All translocation events through pores larger than the liposome, regardless of temperature, show translocation times between 30 and 300 μs and current pulse heights between 0.2% and 15% from the open pore baseline. However, liposomes at temperatures below the Tc were captured at the pore orifice when translocation was attempt...
Binding affinity of a small molecule to an amorphous polymer in a solvent. Part 1: free energy of binding to a binding site.

Crystallization is commonly used in a separation and purification process in the production of a wide range of materials in various industries. In industry, crystallization usually starts with hete...
Espionage, leaks, and the First Amendment

The Reagan Administration's prosecution of Samuel L. Morison for leaking U.S. satellite photos to a British publication presages development of an official secrets policy and will constrict debate on U.S. defense policy.
Cognitive Prediction of Reading, Math, and Attention: Shared and Unique Influences

The current study tested a multiple-cognitive predictor model of word reading, math ability, and attention in a community-based sample of twins ages 8 to 16 years ( N = 636). The objective was to identify cognitive predictors unique to each skill domain as well as cognitive predictors shared among skills that could help explain their overlap and thus help illuminate the basis for comorbidity of related disorders (reading disability, math disability, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). Results indicated that processing speed contributes to the overlap between reading and attention as well as math and attention, whereas verbal comprehension contributes to the overlap between reading and math. There was no evidence that executive functioning skills help account for covariation among these skill domains. Instead, specific executive functions differentially related to certain outcomes (i.e., working memory to math and inhibition to attention). We explored whether the model varied in younger versus older children and found only minor differences. Results are interpreted within the context of the multiple deficit framework for neurodevelopmental disorders.
SHOX Gene Mutations and Anthropometric Characteristics in Patients with Idiopathic Short Stature

Objective To analyze the SHOX gene mutations and anthropometric characteristics in patients with idiopathic short stature(ISS).Methods The height,arm span,sitting height and bone age were measured in 70 patients with ISS.Pearson correlation analysis was performed between bone age delay time and HtSDS,as well as between limb length/sitting height ratio and target height.DNA was extracted from 40 patients with lower leg/sitting height ratio for sequence analysis of SHOX exons.Results There was a positive correlation between bone age delay time and HtSDS(r=0.427,P=0.000),as well as between limb length/sitting height ratio and target height(r=0.251,P=0.039),suggesting that lower limb growth potential decreased in patients with ISS.No SHOX mutations were found in the 40 patients with lower leg/sitting height ratio.Conclusion Patients with ISS may have reduction in lower limb growth potential.SHOX gene mutations may not be a genetic factor in ISS patients with reduction in lower limb growth potential in Jiangxi province.
Alternative methods for evaluating the equivalence of measurement systems.

Aim Reports are common in the orthodontic and dental radiographic literature comparing measurement systems. Typically, such comparisons are made using differences in mean scores across methods, correlation coefficients, or Bland-Altman plots. These methods are subject to known limitations, including an inability to detect bias. Methods A hypothetical dataset was created to contain a small, common random variance and two types of bias to compare three alternative measurement systems against a common standard. One comparison included only random error and no bias. Two types of bias were investigated: systemic overestimation on the part of one measurement system and the more complex case of overestimation in one part of the range and underestimation in the other. Results Each of the commonly used methods for comparing alternative measurement systems was inadequate for detecting one or the other type of bias. The traditional regression analysis, by contrast, provided a useful characterization of the alternative measurement systems, including quantification of the nature of bias. Conclusion Regression analysis can reveal biases masked in the common comparison of means, correlation coefficients, and Bland-Altman plots for evaluating alternative measurement systems and thereby improve confidence in clinical applicability of research.
Geophilosophy, the Life-World, and the Political

In the essay the author addresses some of the central issues at stake in Hwa Yol Jung’s project of geophilosophy as it moves out from what he has come to call “the Great Chain of Ecological Interbeing.” The author concludes with a discussion of two consequences following from Jung’s project, namely a call for a discussion of the principle markers of geophilosophical self-identity and a move toward a postnational politics of cosmopolitan world democracy.
A Novel Zak Knockout Mouse with a Defective Ribotoxic Stress Response

Ricin activates the proinflammatory ribotoxic stress response through the mitogen activated protein 3 kinase (MAP3K) ZAK, resulting in activation of mitogen activated protein kinases (MAPKs) p38 and JNK1/2. We had a novel zak−/− mouse generated to study the role of ZAK signaling in vivo during ricin intoxication. To characterize this murine strain, we intoxicated zak−/− and zak+/+ bone marrow–derived murine macrophages with ricin, measured p38 and JNK1/2 activation by Western blot, and measured zak, c-jun, and cxcl-1 expression by qRT-PCR. To determine whether zak−/− mice differed from wild-type mice in their in vivo response to ricin, we performed oral ricin intoxication experiments with zak+/+ and zak−/− mice, using blinded histopathology scoring of duodenal tissue sections to determine differences in tissue damage. Unlike macrophages derived from zak+/+ mice, those derived from the novel zak−/− strain fail to activate p38 and JNK1/2 and have decreased c-jun and cxcl-1 expression following ricin intoxication. Furthermore, compared with zak+/+ mice, zak−/− mice have decreased duodenal damage following in vivo ricin challenge. zak−/− mice demonstrate a distinct ribotoxic stress–associated phenotype in response to ricin and therefore provide a new animal model for in vivo studies of ZAK signaling.
Catalytic alkylation of remote C–H bonds enabled by proton-coupled electron transfer

Despite advances in hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) catalysis, there are currently no molecular HAT catalysts that are capable of homolysing the strong nitrogen-hydrogen (N-H) bonds of N-alkyl amides. The motivation to develop amide homolysis protocols stems from the utility of the resultant amidyl radicals, which are involved in various synthetically useful transformations, including olefin amination and directed carbon-hydrogen (C-H) bond functionalization. In the latter process-a subset of the classical Hofmann-Loffler-Freytag reaction-amidyl radicals remove hydrogen atoms from unactivated aliphatic C-H bonds. Although powerful, these transformations typically require oxidative N-prefunctionalization of the amide starting materials to achieve efficient amidyl generation. Moreover, because these N-activating groups are often incorporated into the final products, these methods are generally not amenable to the direct construction of carbon-carbon (C-C) bonds. Here we report an approach that overcomes these limitations by homolysing the N-H bonds of N-alkyl amides via proton-coupled electron transfer. In this protocol, an excited-state iridium photocatalyst and a weak phosphate base cooperatively serve to remove both a proton and an electron from an amide substrate in a concerted elementary step. The resultant amidyl radical intermediates are shown to promote subsequent C-H abstraction and radical alkylation steps. This C-H alkylation represents a catalytic variant of the Hofmann-Loffler-Freytag reaction, using simple, unfunctionalized amides to direct the formation of new C-C bonds. Given the prevalence of amides in pharmaceuticals and natural products, we anticipate that this method will simplify the synthesis and structural elaboration of amine-containing targets. Moreover, this study demonstrates that concerted proton-coupled electron transfer can enable homolytic activation of common organic functional groups that are energetically inaccessible using traditional HAT-based approaches.
Transformation Through Social Impact at Whirlpool Corporation

Within the cost-pressured, competitive environment of American manufacturing, Corporate Social Responsibility is often thought of in terms of an additional set of reporting requirements for environmental impact, philanthropy, and volunteering. But corporate social responsibility and a commitment to positive social impact are not just check box items, or add-ons to the work at Whirlpool Corporation, the world’s largest major home appliance manufacturer, headquartered in Benton Harbor, Michigan. Since 2000, Whirlpool’s work as a catalyst for economic development in its hometown, and as a consumer-focused partner to organizations like Habitat for Humanity, has become core to its business strategy. Whirlpool engaged in a strategic innovation effort to understand genuine customer needs in order to create breakthrough products that would cultivate long-term customer loyalty. Simultaneously, Whirlpool Corporation engaged with community partners, state and local government, and employees to understand and improve the economic conditions of Benton Harbor, Michigan. This chapter analyzes how an intensive focus on helping families has played an integral role in how Whirlpool designs products, models innovation, and recruits new talent. With customers as the focus and innovation as the method, Whirlpool undertook to transform its business for long-term success. In the process, it discovered the power of purpose-driven engagement with employees, customers, and its community.
Metastatic Epstein-Barr Virus-Positive Lymphoepithelioma-Like Cholangiocarcinoma in a Young Man With Ulcerative Colitis.

Metastatic Epstein-Barr Virus-Positive Lymphoepithelioma-Like Cholangiocarcinoma in a Young Man With Ulcerative Colitis
Agrammatism in Tagalog: voice and relativisation

ABSTRACTBackground: Virtually nothing is known about the ability of Tagalog speakers with agrammatic aphasia to cope with basic grammatical features of their language. Tagalog is unusual in exhibiting competing transitive patterns thanks to a system of voice that can make either of the verb’s arguments syntactically prominent – a prerequisite for undergoing syntactic operations such as relativisation.Aims: Our objective is to investigate the nature of the syntactic impairment associated with agrammatic aphasia in Tagalog, with special attention to voice patterns and relative clauses (RCs).Methods and Procedures: Five native Tagalog-speaking patients diagnosed with agrammatism took part in (1) elicited-production and (2) comprehension tasks to assess their ability with respect to voice patterns and (3) elicited-production, (4) imitation, and (5) comprehension tasks to assess their performance on RCs.Outcomes and Results: Although the participants did poorly on grammatical morphemes, the classic symptom of ...
Multidisciplinary Clinic to Identify Near Misses and Decrease Readmission Rates After Hospitalization for Myocardial Infarction

Approximately 20% of Medicare beneficiaries are readmitted to the hospital after an index myocardial infarction (MI). Since July 2009, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services began publically reporting hospital data on 30-day readmission rates for MI. This metric is now considered a quality measure, and hospitals with rates above the national average are subject to penalties.1 Starting on October 1, 2012, the University of Virginia was subject to such penalties. One third of our post-MI readmissions occurred within 1 week of discharge, and half did not have follow-up within 2 weeks of discharge. Although early outpatient follow-up has been associated with reduced 30-day readmissions after hospitalization for heart failure,2 it is unclear whether early follow-up improves outcomes in post-MI patients.3,4 To address this problem, we created a multidisciplinary clinic to bridge the gap between hospital discharge and subsequent outpatient follow-up with primary care and cardiology. Our hypothesis was that early follow-up in a multidisciplinary post-MI clinic would result in improved clinical outcomes, including reduction in readmissions. This would occur in part by identifying and resolving a near miss (defined as a reversible problem likely to result in death or serious morbidity within 30 days). There were several challenges in establishing the clinic. First, we had to assure the cardiology faculty that the clinic would not serve as a continuity clinic, rather patients would be referred back to their cardiologist or appropriate follow-up would be arranged. Second, referral to the clinic relied on medicine residents placing the order. To ensure this would happen on a routine basis, we converted the clinic referral order in the electronic medical record discharge order set into a hard stop such that it would automatically occur unless justification was provided. Third, the number of patients seen in the clinic fluctuates …
Measurement of blood-retinal barrier breakdown in endotoxin-induced endophthalmitis

Purpose. Endophthalmitis is a severe inflammatory disorder with profound visual consequences. Treatment of this disorder has been limited by the lack of quantitative information regarding retinal responses to severe inflammation. The purpose of this study was to measure the effect of endotoxin-induced endophthalmitis on blood-retinal barrier (BRB) function in vivo using contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Methods. Endophthalmitis was produced by injecting Escherichia coli endotoxin into the mid-vitreous of pigmented rabbits. Contrast-enhanced MRI was performed at selected intervals thereafter. In all cases, a clinical grading system was used to assess the severity of inflammation before imaging. In a dose-response experiment, total vitreous protein was measured from vitreous specimens obtained 1 day after endotoxin injection and immediately after the imaging procedure. Results. At 1 day after injection, endotoxin produced a selective breakdown of the inner BRB at all doses evaluated (0.01 μg to 500 μg). Permeability-surface area product normalized to the area of leaky retina (PS') increased from 1.35 ± 0.78 x 10 -4 cm/minute (mean ± SEM, n = 4 eyes) at a dose of 0.01 μg to 8.15 ± 2.22 x 10 -4 cm/minute (n = 4 eyes) at a dose of 10 μg. Inner BRB integrity was restored by day 28 after injection. In general, changes in PS', blood-aqueous barrier leakage, mean clinical score, and vitreous protein concentration were found, but the correlation between any two of these parameters was poor. Conclusion. Leakage of contrast appears early in the course of endotoxin-induced endophthalmitis and is a self-limited process. In future studies, these quantifiable changes in BRB permeability should prove useful in the assessment of various therapeutic interventions. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 1995 ;36 :1361-1370.
Principles of Photochemical Activation Toward Artificial Photosynthesis and Organic Transformations

Abstract The basic principles of photocatalysis are introduced from the perspective of a homogeneous system using a molecular photosensitizer. Model photophysical and redox properties of a molecular photosensitizer are discussed. Generic reaction schemes are presented for established photocatalytic protocols via photooxidative and photoreductive mechanisms with sacrificial electron donating or accepting agents. Inspired by natural photosynthesis, prototypical examples of photocatalytic CO2 reduction and photocatalytic H2O oxidation are also included. Finally, an introduction to the growing field of photocatalytic organic transformations is provided.
Renal myxoma in a pediatric transplant recipient

Renal myxoma is a very rare benign neoplasm seen almost exclusively in adults with only 16 reported cases in the literature. All of these cases have been reported in native kidneys with none being reported in a transplant kidney. We report the case of a renal myxoma in a 17-year-old boy's transplant kidney that was found as an incidental mass on ultrasonography and further evaluated with CT and PET scans. PET findings of a renal myxoma are reported here for the first time, and imaging findings from previous cases are briefly reviewed. This case report highlights the fact that adult-predominant tumors and pathology should always be a consideration in pediatric patients who receive organ transplants from adult donors.
Impacts of the horizontal and vertical grids on the numerical solutions of the dynamical equations – Part 2: Quasi-geostrophic Rossby modes

Abstract. We use a normal-mode analysis to investigate the impacts of the horizontal and vertical discretizations on the numerical solutions of the quasi-geostrophic anelastic baroclinic and barotropic Rossby modes on a midlatitude β plane. The dispersion equations are derived for the linearized anelastic system, discretized on the Z, C, D, CD, (DC), A, E and B horizontal grids, and on the L and CP vertical grids. The effects of various horizontal grid spacings and vertical wavenumbers are discussed. A companion paper, Part 1, discusses the impacts of the discretization on the inertia–gravity modes on a midlatitude f plane. The results of our normal-mode analyses for the Rossby waves overall support the conclusions of the previous studies obtained with the shallow-water equations. We identify an area of disagreement with the E-grid solution.
RISKS ANALYSIS ON RETURNS OF BROILER FARMING IN UGHELLI NORTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, DELTA STATE, NIGERIA

This study analyzed the risks factors affecting the profitability of broiler farming in Ughelli North Local Government area of Delta State Nigeria. Two stage sampling technique was used to obtain 96 respondents through structured questionnaire and interview schedules and analyzed through the use of descriptive statistics and regression analysis and budgetary analysis. The broiler farms in this study were dominated by literate farmers (38%). Male farmers (63%) with age bracket of 41-50 years (57%). About 51% of the respondents were married. It was revealed in the study that the average total production cost of broiler in the study area was N 397,980 while the average total revenue was N 748,250. This resulted in a net profit of N 350,270 in broiler production and N 0.88k for average net return on investment (NROI). The study revealed that about 71% of the total variation in the value of broilers produced is accounted for by litter change, biosecurity infrastructure (p<0.05), vaccination schedule, stocking density and net farm income (p<0.05) probability levels respectively. It is recommend that government should empower the farmers with credit to meet the farm requirements to avert risk occurrence in the study area.
Improvement of liver ablation treatment for colorectal liver metastases

The purpose of this research is to improve treatment of colorectal liver metastases (CLM) in the clinic. It has been previously shown that an ablation margin of 5 mm or more for CLM greatly increases 5 year local tumor progression free survival, however it is often difficult to ensure proper ablation using intraprocedural imaging. CT images of 30 patients with CLM treated with ablation were retrospectively obtained from the MD Anderson Cancer Center. Contours defining the liver, ablation probes, CLM margins, and ablation margin were created from the pre-treatment contrast enhanced CTs and intra-interventional CT images. Using a biomechanical model-based deformable image registration these contours were deformed onto the contrast enhanced CT images obtained just after treatment. The propagated ablation region was then compared with the GTV, as defined before the procedure, to determine the ablation margin delivered. There was a statistically significant difference (p<0.01) in the achieved ablation margin between patients who did and did not have local recurrence. Results showed that patients without local recurrence received on average 3.19 mm of minimum ablation margin around the gross tumor volume(GTV), while those with local recurrence received an average of 1.14 mm. The model presented can assist in the treatment of CLM by identifying the minimum distance to agreement between the GTV and the ablation region directly after treatment. This metric can help determine if sufficient ablation has been delivered to the treat the disease.
Integrative Problem Centered Metaframeworks (IPCM) Therapy

This chapter presents Integrative Problem Cantered Met frameworks (IPCM) Therapy. It also presents a case example illustrating IPCM within family and couple therapy contexts and discusses the integration of art and science in psychotherapeutic practice. IPCM is passionately committed to recognizing and supporting client strengths along with respecting the concerns clients bring to therapy. The Therapist System consists of everyone involved in the provision of therapy to the Client System. The therapist is typically the sole member of the Direct Therapist System. The IPCM principle of application, as operationalized in the matrix, represents a set of general preferences regarding who to convene, which constraints to address first and how to proceed in therapy. IPCM is an integrative, multisystemic, and empirically informed psychotherapeutic perspective. The constraint-removing and problem-solving essence of IPCM applies to work done with any and all levels of the “system.”
Presentation, progression, and predictors of ovarian insufficiency in classic galactosemia.

Classic galactosemia (CG) is an inherited metabolic disorder that affects about 1 in 50,000 live births in the United States and many other countries. With the benefit of early detection by newborn screening and rapid dietary restriction of galactose, generally achieved by removing dairy from the diet, most affected infants are spared the acute and potentially lethal symptoms of disease. Despite early detection and life-long dietary intervention, however, most patients grow to experience a constellation of long-term complications that include premature ovarian insufficiency in the vast majority of girls and young women. Our goal in the study reported here was to define the presentation, progression, and predictors of ovarian insufficiency in a cohort of 102 post-pubertal girls and women with CG. To our knowledge, this is the largest cohort studied to date. We found that 68% of the girls and women in our study achieved spontaneous menarche, while 32% achieved menarche only after starting hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Of those who achieved spontaneous menarche, fewer than 50% were still cycling regularly after 3 years, and fewer than 15% were still cycling regularly after 10 years. Of factors tested for possible association with spontaneous menarche, only detectable (≥ 0.04 ng/mL) plasma anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) level was significant. These results extend substantially from prior studies and confirm that detectable plasma AMH is a useful predictor of ovarian function in girls and women with CG.
Combinatorial optimization problems in engineering applications

This paper deals with several combinatorial optimization problems. The most challenging such problem is the quadratic assignment problem (QAP). It is considered in both two dimensions (QAP) and three dimensions (Q3AP) and in the context of communication engineering. Semidefinite relaxations are used to derive lower bounds for the optimum while heuristics are applied to either find upper bounds or good feasible solutions. Semidefinite relaxations also yield bounds for questions related to binary and spherical codes including for the kissing number problem. Finally, two combinatorial problems are solved exactly, a Q3AP from communications and a directional sensor location problem.
Production of dynamic lipid bilayers using the reversible thiol–thioester exchange reaction

Thiol lysolipids undergo thiol–thioester exchange with two phenyl thioester-functionalized tails to produce phospholipid structures that assemble into liposomes with differences in exchange rates, temperature sensitivity, permeability, and continued exchange behavior. This in situ formation reaction imparts dynamic characteristics into the membrane for downstream liposome functionalization and mimics native membrane remodeling.
Best Practices of Prosocial Organizations in Youth Development

The increased emphasis on corporate social responsibility has provided much-needed efforts in helping young people in a wide variety of ways. Societal, economic, and human resources reasons have encouraged more organizations to help youth. In addition, many forward-thinking organizations have done much to volunteer their employees’ time, develop programs, and donate resources. There are countless examples of companies that support youth development; however, the results of their programs are not widely disseminated, leaving companies that want to start their own efforts often either duplicating what might already be available or developing a program that will be less than effective. Many of the best-practice companies realize the steps necessary to lead to successful programs and have partnered with existing agencies to serve those who need it most. Their accomplishments are commendable and should be shared with others.
The Ortcutt Connection

What is it to believe about, or of, a particular individual that he (or she or it) is thus-and-so?
Isolation of fumarate reductase from Desulfovibriomultispirans, a sulfate reducing bacterium

Fumarate reductase was isolated and purified 100-fold to homogeneity from Desulfovibriomultispirans, a new species of sulfate-reducing bacteria. The enzyme contained 1 mol of non-covalently bound FAD and four subunits with Mr 45,000, 32,000, 30,000 and 27,000. EPR spectroscopy showed the existence of two iron-sulfur clusters. The absorption spectrum showed a broad region of high absorbance from 450 nm to 300 nm with a protein peak at 278 nm. The ratio of A278:A400 was 2.60. The specific activity was 110 μ moles H2/mg of protein. The Km for fumarate was 2.5 mM. The activation energy was 8.7 kcal/mol. Electron transport from H2 to fumarate in intact cells was inhibited by 2-heptyl-4-hydroxy-quinoline-N-oxide, a quinone inhibitor, indicating the participation of quinone (probably menaquinone) in fumarate reduction.
Human Experiences Related to Adverse Drug Reactions to the Fetus or Neonate from Some Maternally Administered Drugs

Life is a continuous process; a live ovum and spermatozoon unite to form a human being like, yet not identical, with any other member of the species. These host differences offer opportunity for variability in reaction to a noxious drug. The life span — from conception to old age — is divided biologically and on other grounds into quite different periods rather clearly separated from each other. This presents another host basis for variability to a drug’s effects.
Epicardial Coronary Heart Disease in CKD: Diagnosis and Management

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is an increasingly common problem, affecting approximately 10 % of the world’s population [1]. Patients with CKD are at increased risk of cardiovascular disease, and in fact, cardiac causes account for more than 50 % of deaths in CKD patients [2]. And yet, coronary artery disease remains underdiagnosed and undertreated in this population. Recognition of underlying coronary artery disease can be complicated in CKD patients because many are asymptomatic [3]. Several small studies have demonstrated obstructive coronary lesions (defined as stenosis greater than 50 % of the lumen diameter) in up to 50 % of asymptomatic patients with CKD (stages 4 and 5) [4, 5]. The paucity of symptoms may be due to a variety of factors, including neuropathy [6] and decreased exercise tolerance. In addition, subtle symptoms such as dyspnea on exertion or fatigue may be attributed to other causes, such as anemia.
Spatio-Temporal Data Mining of Major European River and Mountain Names Reveals Their Near Eastern and African Origins

This paper presents a spatio-temporal data mining regarding the origin of the names of the 218 longest European rivers. The study shows that 35.2% of these river names originate in the Near East and Southern Caucasus. The study also investigates the origin of European mountain names. It is shown that at least 26 mountain names originate from Africa.
Spontaneous rupture of thymoma

We report a case of patient who presented to the hospital due to shoulder pain and was later diagnosed with ruptured thymoma. Shortly after being admitted to the hospital for the work up patient developed respiratory distress and underwent emergent endotracheal intubation. CT scan of the chest showed anterior mediastinal mass with associated right sided hemothorax. He subsequently underwent medial sternotomy with resection of the mass which turned out to be thymoma.
Estimation of Tropical Cyclone Intensity in the North Atlantic and Northeastern Pacific Basins Using TRMM Satellite Passive Microwave Observations

AbstractA statistical passive microwave intensity estimation (PMW-IE) algorithm for estimating the intensity of tropical cyclones (TCs) in the North Atlantic and northeastern and central Pacific ba...
An Objective Climatology of Tropical Cyclone Diurnal Pulses in the Atlantic Basin

AbstractStorm-centered IR brightness temperature imagery was used to create 6-h IR brightness temperature difference fields for all Atlantic basin tropical cyclones from 1982 to 2017. Pulses of col...
Obesity in Adolescents with Psychiatric Disorders

This narrative review synthesized recent research related to obesity in adolescents with psychiatric disorders, with a focus on epidemiology, mechanisms, and weight management approaches. The paper reviews literature on depressive and anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders. Depression has a bidirectional relationship with obesity. Bipolar disorder and schizophrenia spectrum disorders, and their treatments, increase the risk of developing obesity. Mechanisms underlying this weight gain include lifestyle and environmental factors and psychiatric medications, though emerging evidence has also suggested the role of genetic and neuroendocrine processes. Evidence about the most effective treatments for obesity in adolescents with psychiatric disorders remains limited. Adolescents with psychiatric disorders are at high risk for obesity. Close monitoring for increases in weight and cardiometabolic risk factors with use of antipsychotic and mood-stabilizing medications is recommended. Clinical trials are needed that test the efficacy of weight management strategies for this population.
Targeted Lipid Nanoemulsions Encapsulating Epigenetic Drugs Exhibit Selective Cytotoxicity on CDH1–/FOXM1+ Triple Negative Breast Cancer Cells

The plasticity of cancer epigenetics makes them plausible candidates for therapeutic intervention. We took advantage of elevated expression of lysophosphatidic acid receptor 1 (LPAR1) in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) tissues to target decitabine (DAC) and panobinostat (PAN) to breast cancer cells. DAC and PAN were shown to reverse abnormal methylation of DNA and altered chromatin structure, respectively, leading to increased expression of tumor suppressor genes and decreased expression of oncogenes. Although DAC and PAN have therapeutic benefits, they are limited by chemical instability and systemic toxicity. Herein, we present LPAR1-targeted, lipid nanoemulsions (LNEs) encapsulating both DAC and PAN. Our results demonstrated that the cell uptake and in vivo biodistribution of LNEs was dependent on LPAR1 expression in TNBCs. DAC/PAN-LNEs were effective in inhibiting the growth of mesenchymal breast cancer cells by restoring CDH1/E-cadherin and suppressing forkhead box M1 (FOXM1) expression. Epithelial breast cancer cells that inherently express low FOXM1 and high CDH1 were unaffected by DAC/PAN-LNEs. Overall, we successfully designed LPAR1-targeted LNEs that selectively act on CDH1(low)/FOXM1(high) TNBC cell lines.
Checkpoint Blockade Strategies in the Treatment of Breast Cancer: Where We Are and Where We Are Heading

Immunotherapy has become one of the greatest advances in medical oncology over the last century; however, the optimal application for the treatment of breast cancer remains an active area of investigation. Modern immunotherapy strategies augment the immune system and ideally, permit durable tumor-specific immune memory. In fact, several monoclonal antibodies that mediate the immune checkpoint receptors have provided the most clinically meaningful improvement for breast cancer patients to date, particularly for the triple negative subtype. Checkpoint blockade as monotherapy has demonstrated some encouraging results, although some combination strategies appear to augment those responses and may be particularly effective when administered earlier in the course of disease. For example, the combination of atezolizumab and nab-paclitaxel as first-line therapy for metastatic triple negative breast cancer demonstrated significant improvements in progression-free survival when compared with chemotherapy alone. Herein, we review the data for immune therapy in breast cancer and highlight promising future directions.
Community Based Aesthetics as Exhibition Catalyst and a Foundation for Community Involvement in Art Education.

“Boats, Bait and Fishing Paraphernalia: A Local Folk Aesthetic” was an exhibit coordinated by the authors to explore potential aesthetic qualities of a range of functional objects. Members of the local fishing community worked together to identify a community based aesthetic and to curate an exhibit which would present that aesthetic to the public Attendees completed questionnaires designed to help report on the exhibition's objective: to promote community involvement and aesthetic representation. Results of a statistical analysis of questionnaire responses revealed that the exhibit attracted widespread interest and support, and that the goals of the exhibit were accomplished. Findings from the questionnaire suggest that many approaches to both the content and methodologies can be effectively used in the field of art education.
Uncoupling Protein 2 Increases Blood Pressure in DJ‐1 Knockout Mice

Background The redox-sensitive chaperone DJ -1 and uncoupling protein 2 are protective against mitochondrial oxidative stress. We previously reported that renal-selective depletion and germline deletion of DJ -1 increases blood pressure in mice. This study aimed to determine the mechanisms involved in the oxidative stress-mediated hypertension in DJ -1 -/- mice. Methods and Results There were no differences in sodium excretion, renal renin expression, renal NADPH oxidase activity, and serum creatinine levels between DJ -1 -/- and wild-type mice. Renal expression of nitro-tyrosine, malondialdehyde, and urinary kidney injury marker-1 were increased in DJ -1 -/- mice relative to wild-type littermates. mRNA expression of mitochondrial heat shock protein 60 was also elevated in kidneys from DJ -1 -/- mice, indicating the presence of oxidative stress. Tempol-treated DJ -1 -/- mice presented higher serum nitrite/nitrate levels than vehicle-treated DJ -1 -/- mice, suggesting a role of the NO system in the high blood pressure of this model. Tempol treatment normalized renal kidney injury marker-1 and malondialdehyde expression as well as blood pressure in DJ -1 -/- mice, but had no effect in wild-type mice. The renal Ucp2 mRNA expression was increased in DJ -1 -/- mice versus wild-type and was also normalized by tempol. The renal-selective silencing of Ucp2 led to normalization of blood pressure and serum nitrite/nitrate ratio in DJ -1 -/- mice. Conclusions The deletion of DJ -1 leads to oxidative stress-induced hypertension associated with downregulation of NO function, and overexpression of Ucp2 in the kidney increases blood pressure in DJ -1 -/- mice. To our knowledge, this is the first report providing evidence of the role of uncoupling protein 2 in blood pressure regulation.
A Reciprocal Terrestrial Backhaul Architecture for the Integration of 5G in HTS Networks

In this paper, we propose a reciprocal architecture to integrate satellite-based ground gateways with 5G eNodeBs capable of transmitting Terabit/s of data throughput in remote locations. Taking into consideration the need for heterogeneous and reliable satellite terrestrial communication, we propose a gateway connection for backhauling traffic through terrestrial base stations. These satellite gateway feeder links will significantly improve overall throughput by utilizing feeder links in parallel with minimal ground network topology alternations. The proposed solution will provide real-time services to LEO, MEO & GEO satellites in connection with 5G-enabled eNodeBs. This will include managed broadband services, gateway services, monitoring, tracking and control services in a terrestrial backhaul connection fashion.
\(H_\infty \) Optimal Synthesis for Discrete-Time Systems

In this chapter, we consider the \(H_\infty \) optimal synthesis of digital PI and PID controllers. We present the computation of \(\mathcal {S}_\gamma \), the set of stabilizing digital PI or PID controllers for a given plant, satisfying an \(H_\infty \) norm bound of \(\gamma \) on the error transfer function.
Early Science Results from SOFIA, the World's Largest Airborne Observatory

The Stratospheric Observatory For Infrared Astronomy, or SOFIA, is the largest flying observatory ever built,consisting of a 2.7-meter diameter telescope embedded in a modified Boeing 747-SP aircraft. SOFIA is a joint project between NASA and the German Aerospace Center Deutsches Zentrum fur Luft und-Raumfahrt (DLR). By flying at altitudes up to 45000 feet, the observatory gets above 99.9 percent of the infrared-absorbing water vapor in the Earth's atmosphere. This opens up an almost uninterrupted wavelength range from 0.3-1600 microns that is in large part obscured from ground based observatories. Since its 'Initial Science Flight' in December 2010, SOFIA has flown several dozen science flights, and has observed a wide array of objects from Solar System bodies, to stellar nurseries, to distant galaxies. This paper reviews a few of the exciting new science results from these first flights which were made by three instruments: the mid-infrared camera FORCAST, the far-infrared heterodyne spectrometer GREAT, and the optical occultation photometer HIPO.
Chronic methylphenidate induces increased quinone production and subsequent depletion of the antioxidant glutathione in the striatum.

Abstract Background Methylphenidate (Ritalin®) is a psychostimulant used chronically to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Methylphenidate acts by preventing the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine, resulting in an increase in these neurotransmitters in the synaptic cleft. Excess dopamine can be autoxidized to a quinone that may lead to oxidative stress. The antioxidant, glutathione helps to protect the cell against quinones via conjugation reactions; however, depletion of glutathione may result from excess quinone formation. Chronic exposure to methylphenidate appears to sensitize dopaminergic neurons to the Parkinsonian toxin 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP). We hypothesized that oxidative stress caused by the autooxidation of the excess dopamine renders dopaminergic neurons within the nigrostriatal pathway to be more sensitive to MPTP. Methods To test this hypothesis, male mice received chronic low or high doses of MPH and were exposed to saline or MPTP following a 1-week washout. Quinone formation in the striatum was examined via dot blot, and striatal GSH was quantified using a glutathione assay. Results Indeed, quinone formation increased with increasing doses of methylphenidate. Additionally, methylphenidate dose-dependently resulted in a depletion of glutathione, which was further depleted following MPTP treatment. Conclusions Thus, the increased sensitivity of dopamine neurons to MPTP toxicity following chronic methylphenidate exposure may be due to quinone production and subsequent depletion of glutathione.
Controlled Delivery of Curcumin and Vitamin K2 from Hydroxyapatite-Coated Titanium Implant for Enhanced in Vitro Chemoprevention, Osteogenesis, and in Vivo Osseointegration.

Successful repair of critical-sized tumor-resection defects, especially in load-bearing bones, still remains a major challenge in clinical orthopedics. Titanium (Ti) implants have been increasingly...
Addressing Pandemic-Intensified Food Insecurity.

* Abbreviations: COVID-19 — : coronavirus disease 2019 EBT — : Electronic Benefits Transfer eMTY — : Emergency Meals-to-You MTY — : Meals-to-You NSLP — : National School Lunch Program P-EBT — : Pandemic Electronic Benefits Transfer SBP — : School Breakfast Program SFSP — : Summer Food Service Program USDA — : US Department of Agriculture As the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic progresses, child health advocates must continue to address the pandemic’s impact on child health and well-being. School meal programs serve as a critical safety net against food insecurity and malnutrition for vulnerable children worldwide.1 When the pandemic emerged as a global threat in the early months of 2020, most national governments shuttered schools as part of their efforts to slow viral spread. In total 194 countries, including the United States, closed schools and universities by early April 2020.2 Overnight, school-aged children lost access to affordable, nutritious meals.1 This occurred in the setting of pandemic-related economic contraction, job losses, supply chain disruptions, and rising food costs.3,4 It comes as no surprise that food insecurity has skyrocketed across the United States, especially among families with children.5–7 Early analyses suggest the prevalence of food insecurity in US households with children at least doubled, if not tripled, from prepandemic levels.5–7 Furthermore, experts report this rise in food insecurity cannot be explained by unemployment alone, pointing to the loss of school meals as a major contributor.7 Even brief spells of food insecurity have detrimental consequences for child health and well-being; students living in households that experience food insecurity during the summer are more likely to lose reading skills, gain excessive weight, and have mental health and behavioral problems compared with peers.8 As pediatricians, we must call for strong policies to protect school-aged … Address correspondence to Ovini D. Rodrigo, MD, Pediatrics Residency Program, One Baylor Plaza, BCM 320, Houston, TX 77030. E-mail: orodrigo{at}bcm.edu