SMA
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a group of inherited neuromuscular disorders characterized by the progressive degeneration and loss of lower motor neurons in the spinal cord, resulting in muscle weakness, atrophy, and impaired voluntary movement.[1] Caused primarily by mutations in the SMN1 gene on chromosome 5q13, which encodes the survival motor neuron (SMN) protein essential for motor neuron function, SMA follows an autosomal recessive inheritance pattern and affects approximately 1 in 14,694 live births in the United States.[1][2] The condition manifests in various severity levels, with symptoms typically emerging in infancy or early childhood, though adult-onset forms exist, and it remains one of the leading genetic causes of infant mortality without intervention.[1][3] SMA is classified into several types based on age of onset and clinical severity, primarily Types 0 through IV, all linked to SMN1 mutations in the most common form, though rare non-SMN1 variants exist involving genes such as IGHMBP2 or DYNC1H1.[1] Type 0, the most severe, presents prenatally with reduced fetal movement and profound hypotonia at birth, often leading to respiratory failure.[1] Type I (Werdnig-Hoffmann disease), the infantile form, onset before 6 months, features severe weakness preventing independent sitting, frequent respiratory issues, and survival typically beyond 2 years only with ventilatory support.[1] Type II allows sitting without support but not standing, with onset between 6 and 18 months and potential complications like scoliosis.[1] Type III (Kugelberg-Welander disease) begins after 18 months, enabling initial walking that may later decline, while Type IV emerges in adulthood with milder, progressive proximal weakness.[1] Symptoms across types include hypotonia, fasciculations, delayed motor milestones, respiratory difficulties, and orthopedic issues like joint contractures, with diagnosis confirmed via genetic testing for SMN1 deletions (detectable in 95% of cases), electromyography, or muscle biopsy.[1] Treatment has advanced significantly with three FDA-approved disease-modifying therapies: nusinersen (Spinraza), an antisense oligonucleotide administered intrathecally to enhance SMN protein production; onasemnogene abeparvovec (Zolgensma), a one-time gene therapy for children under 2 years; and risdiplam (Evrysdi), an oral SMN2 splicing modifier for patients aged 2 months and older.[1] Supportive care encompasses multidisciplinary interventions such as physical and respiratory therapies, nutritional support, and orthopedic management to optimize quality of life and function.[1] Ongoing research, including newborn screening implementation in all U.S. states as of 2024, aims to enable early intervention and further therapeutic innovations like gene editing.[2][4]Places
Santa Maria Airport (Azores)
Santa Maria Airport (IATA: SMA, ICAO: LPAZ) is an international airport located on Santa Maria Island in the Azores archipelago, Portugal, approximately 5 km west-northwest of Vila do Porto, the island's main town.[5] Situated in the North Atlantic, it serves as a strategic hub for transatlantic aviation, connecting the Azores to mainland Portugal and facilitating stopover flights across the ocean. The airport's origins trace back to the early 1940s, when construction began amid World War II to support Allied operations; it was completed in 1944 primarily for military use and re-inaugurated for commercial aviation on November 28, 1946, marking the start of its role in civilian air travel.[6][7] During WWII, the airfield played a critical role as a stopover for Allied forces, particularly in 1945 when over 450 heavy bombers transited via Santa Maria en route to the United States for redeployment to the Pacific Theater, aiding in convoy protection and transatlantic logistics.[8] Post-war, it evolved into a key node for early transatlantic routes, with Pan American Airways initiating regular stopovers in January 1946 using Lockheed Constellation aircraft.[9] The airport features a single runway (18/36) measuring 3,048 meters by 60 meters, surfaced in concrete, capable of accommodating large aircraft, alongside a modest terminal building equipped for international clearance and basic passenger services including check-in, security, and a small commercial area with shops and dining options.[10][11] Operated by ANA Aeroportos de Portugal since its concession, the airport handles a mix of commercial, military, and general aviation flights, with primary commercial services provided by Azores Airlines connecting to Ponta Delgada and Lisbon, alongside occasional transatlantic and private charters.[12] It maintains an Airport of Entry status with fire-fighting capabilities rated Category 6/7, operating daily from 07:45 to 22:30 local time.[11] In 2024, Santa Maria contributed to the Azores network's total of 3,282,262 passengers, reflecting a 9.6% increase from 2023, underscoring its role in regional connectivity despite its smaller scale compared to larger Azorean hubs.[13] Recent expansions include a €1.9 million investment in 2024 for airside drainage rehabilitation, enhancing infrastructure resilience, with ongoing developments supporting emerging spaceport activities on the island to bolster non-aviation economic ties.[13][14]Santa Maria Airport (Peru)
Santa María Airport (IATA: SMG, ICAO: SPMR) is a small airport serving the Santa María del Mar district in Lima Province, within Peru's Lima Region. Located on the coastal area south of Lima, it supports local aviation activities in a district known for its beachfront communities and proximity to the Pacific Ocean.[15] The airport sits at coordinates 12°23'29"S latitude and 76°45'21"W longitude, with an elevation of 769 feet (234 meters) above mean sea level. It is classified as a small airport, accommodating light aircraft and general aviation operations.[16][15] Established to facilitate regional domestic flights, the airport handles low traffic volumes, focusing on general aviation and sporadic charter services rather than scheduled commercial routes. No major accidents have been recorded at or near the facility.[16][17] As of 2025, the airport remains under Peruvian national aviation oversight, with no reported significant maintenance projects or expansions specific to this site; it continues to contribute to regional connectivity in the Lima area without notable changes in operations.[18]Titles
Sergeant Major of the Army
The Sergeant Major of the Army (SMA) is the highest-ranking enlisted soldier in the United States Army, serving as the principal noncommissioned officer advisor to the Chief of Staff of the Army on all matters pertaining to the enlisted force. In this role, the SMA acts as the spokesperson for the Army's more than 450,000 enlisted personnel, providing counsel on policies related to training, discipline, morale, welfare, quality of life, and professional development. The position ensures that the perspectives of enlisted soldiers are integrated into high-level decision-making, helping to maintain the effectiveness and readiness of the force.[19][20] The office of the SMA was established on July 11, 1966, amid efforts to modernize the Army's noncommissioned officer corps during the Vietnam War era and address the need for a unified enlisted voice at the highest levels of command. This creation marked a significant evolution in the NCO structure, providing formal representation for enlisted soldiers directly to the Army's top leadership for the first time. The inaugural SMA, William O. Wooldridge, was selected from active command sergeants major and sworn in at the Pentagon, setting the precedent for the position's focus on enlisted advocacy. Since its inception, 17 individuals have held the office, each serving terms typically ranging from two to four years, with appointments reflecting exemplary leadership in operational and strategic roles.[21][22][20] Notable holders include the founding SMA, William O. Wooldridge (July 11, 1966–August 31, 1968), who established the office's protocols; William G. Bainbridge (July 2, 1975–July 7, 1979), who advanced NCO education initiatives; and more recent leaders such as Kenneth O. Preston (January 15, 2004–March 2011), the longest-serving SMA with over seven years; Raymond F. Chandler III (March 1, 2011–January 30, 2015); Daniel A. Dailey (January 30, 2015–August 2, 2019); Michael A. Grinston (August 2, 2019–August 4, 2023), the 16th SMA; and the current occupant, Michael R. Weimer (August 4, 2023–present), the 17th SMA as of November 2025. These selections highlight the position's emphasis on leaders with diverse combat and command experience.[21][23][24] Selection for the SMA requires candidates to be serving command sergeants major (pay grade E-9) with completion of the Sergeants Major Course, extensive operational experience, and demonstrated excellence in leadership positions at battalion level or higher. The Chief of Staff of the Army appoints the SMA following a competitive evaluation process managed by Human Resources Command, which includes a review of personnel records, physical fitness assessments, leadership interviews with the outgoing SMA and the Sergeant Major of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, a 360-degree performance evaluation from subordinates and peers, and a writing sample on Army policy issues. This multi-faceted assessment ensures the selectee embodies the Army's NCO creed and can effectively represent enlisted interests.[25][26] The SMA's insignia distinguishes the position from standard E-9 ranks. Sleeve chevrons feature three upward-pointing chevrons above three downward arcs, flanked by two five-pointed stars with the Great Seal of the United States (including the bald eagle, shield, and stars) centered between them, all in gold bullion on a blue background for formal uniforms. Collar insignia consists of a 3/4-inch gold-colored shield derived from the aide-de-camp badge to the Chief of Staff, worn on both lapels without the surmounting eagle. The SMA wears a unique blue service uniform with these elements, along with a distinctive flag and title badge, symbolizing authority over the entire NCO corps. No more than one SMA serves at any time.[27][28]Sexiest Man Alive
The Sexiest Man Alive is an annual title bestowed by People magazine since 1985, recognizing a male celebrity for their physical attractiveness, charisma, and broader appeal in popular culture. The feature originated as a bold editorial decision to celebrate male beauty in a format traditionally focused on women, debuting with Australian actor Mel Gibson as the inaugural recipient. Each year's edition includes an extensive photoshoot, in-depth interview, and personal anecdotes that highlight the winner's life, relationships, and career, often accompanied by themed visuals to showcase their style and personality. The selection process is an internal editorial choice by People magazine's team, guided by factors such as current popularity, media buzz, and cultural relevance rather than a public vote. Editors consider nominees from entertainment, sports, and music industries, aiming to reflect evolving standards of masculinity while prioritizing figures who embody confidence and approachability. This subjective approach has led to diverse honorees over the decades, with the title often announced in late October or early November to coincide with the holiday issue. Notable winners include:| Year | Winner | Notable Achievement |
|---|---|---|
| 1985 | Mel Gibson | Star of Mad Max and Lethal Weapon |
| 1986 | Mark Harmon | Actor in St. Elsewhere |
| 1987 | Harry Hamlin | Star of L.A. Law |
| 1988 | John F. Kennedy Jr. | Publisher and lawyer |
| 1989 | Sean Connery | Iconic James Bond portrayer |
| 1990 | Tom Cruise | Top Gun and Rain Man lead |
| 1991 | Patrick Swayze | Dirty Dancing star |
| 1992 | Nick Nolte | The Prince of Tides actor |
| 1994 | Keanu Reeves | Speed and Point Break star |
| 1995 | George Clooney | ER heartthrob |
| 1996 | Denzel Washington | Crimson Tide and Malcolm X lead |
| 1997 | Matt Damon | Good Will Hunting co-writer and star |
| 1998 | Harrison Ford | Star Wars and Indiana Jones icon |
| 1999 | Richard Gere | Pretty Woman romantic lead |
| 2000 | Brad Pitt | Fight Club and Legends of the Fall star |
| 2001 | Pierce Brosnan | James Bond in GoldenEye |
| 2002 | Orlando Bloom | Lord of the Rings elf |
| 2003 | Jude Law | Cold Mountain and Alfie actor |
| 2004 | Johnny Depp | Pirates of the Caribbean captain |
| 2005 | Matthew McConaughey | How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days charmer |
| 2006 | George Clooney | Second-time winner; Ocean's Eleven director |
| 2007 | Matt Damon | Second-time winner; The Bourne Identity |
| 2008 | Hugh Jackman | X-Men Wolverine |
| 2009 | Johnny Depp | Second-time winner; Public Enemies |
| 2010 | Ryan Reynolds | Deadpool precursor in Green Lantern |
| 2011 | Bradley Cooper | The Hangover and Silver Linings Playbook |
| 2012 | Channing Tatum | Magic Mike dancer |
| 2013 | Adam Levine | Maroon 5 frontman |
| 2014 | Chris Hemsworth | Thor in Marvel Cinematic Universe |
| 2015 | David Beckham | Soccer legend and style icon |
| 2016 | Dwayne Johnson | Fast & Furious and Jumanji star |
| 2017 | Blake Shelton | Country singer and The Voice coach |
| 2018 | Idris Elba | Luther and Thor actor |
| 2019 | John Legend | Grammy-winning musician |
| 2020 | Michael B. Jordan | Black Panther and Creed lead |
| 2021 | Paul Rudd | Ant-Man in MCU |
| 2022 | Chris Evans | Captain America portrayer |
| 2023 | Patrick Dempsey | Grey's Anatomy McDreamy |
| 2024 | John Krasinski | The Office and Jack Ryan star |
| 2025 | Jonathan Bailey | Bridgerton and Wicked star |