cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Numerical simulations of mesoscale variability in the Straits of Florida

The circulation in the Straits of Florida is dominated by the throughflow of the Florida Current, as modified by tidal flows, responses to atmospheric cold front and extratropical cyclone (easterly wave and tropical cyclone) passages in winter (summer), and intrinsic mesoscale variability due to instabilities of the Florida Current front and jet system. Monthly meanders of the Florida Current, persistent oceanic fronts associated with the Florida Current’s baroclinic jet, and frontal eddies shed weekly by the Florida Current are the primary mesoscale features. A limited area model (Princeton Ocean Model: POM) is implemented to cover the Straits of Florida with a curvilinear grid that resolves the mesoscale structure, especially where the baroclinic flow is locked to steep topography in a 90 degree bend of the Straits. Florida Current cyclonic frontal eddies are spawned spontaneously, grow as they translate downstream, interact with shelf waters, and exhibit the same space-time attributes that characterize their observed counterparts, as evidenced by satellite imagery, shipboard synoptic mapping, coastal HF radar, and moored time series. Here, a deeper understanding is attempted for the frontal eddy kinematics and dynamics by examining, for example, their sensitivity to model parameter values, synoptic versus monthly atmospheric forcing, and other determinants of the flow. The mean flow shears are concentrated along the shelfbreak, where these frontal eddies are trapped, favoring the formation of the eddies by mean flow instabilities. In particular, it is found that the Florida Current frontal eddies exist independent of the wind-forcing considered (i.e., no winds, monthly winds, and synoptic (but not mesoscale) winds); however, they are modulated by the synoptic wind-forcing. Nevertheless, intriguingly, the frontal eddies have the same weekly time scale as the weather cycle.
Mastectomy and Related Treatments: Impact of Appearance Satisfaction on Self‐Esteem

According to the symbolic-interactionist perspective, how the self is presented to others in social interaction provides critical cues that affect how others perceive an individual. Thus evaluations of one's own appearance, including body image, influence feelings about the self as presented to others. In addition, the integra tion of societal values, cultural imagery, and life experiences influence women's perceptions of their bodies. A model of appearance satisfaction and self-esteem was developed and tested through path analysis using quantitative data reported by 933 post-mastectomy women in a statewide survey. Qualitative data from follow-up interviews with 27 of the patients were used to supplement the quan titative analyses. Clothing importance was perceived as less critical than medically related issues, but more critical than social issues. Findings indicate that age and whether or not one had undergone reconstructive surgery significantly contrib uted to satisfaction with appearance. In turn, appearance satisfaction had a sig nificant effect (p < .001) on self-esteem and accounted for 12 percent of the variance in self-esteem. Compared to the attitudes of older, non-employed women, the appearance satisfaction of young women who were employed tended to be influenced more by medical treatments than by reconstructive sur gery.
Synthesis and evaluation of 3''- and 4''-deoxy and -fluoro analogs of the immunostimulatory glycolipid, KRN7000.

Abstract Four 3″- and 4″-deoxy and -fluorogalactosyl ceramides were synthesized, and their ability to stimulate iNKT cells, based on levels of IL-2 production, was assessed in three NKT cell receptor hybridomas. In two of the hybridomas, 1.2 and 2H4, all of the analogs were immunostimulatory, while in the 1.4 hybridoma only the 4″-fluoro analog led to the production of significant levels of IL-2.
Collaborative knowledge management supporting mars mission scientists

This paper describes the design and deployment of a collaborative software tool, designed for and presently in use on the Mars Exploration Rovers (MER) 2003 mission. Two central questions are addressed. Does collaborative content like that created on easels and whiteboards have persistent value? Can groups of people jointly manage collaboratively created content? Based on substantial quantitative and qualitative data collected during mission operations, it remains difficult to conclusively answer the first question while there is some positive support for the second question. The MER mission provides a uniquely rich data set on the use of collaborative tools.
The Zimbabwean war of liberation: struggles within the struggle

(1988). The Zimbabwean war of liberation: struggles within the struggle. Journal of Southern African Studies: Vol. 14, Culture and Consciousness in Southern Africa, pp. 304-322.
Mechanistic basis for particle detachment from granular media.

Colloids may become detached from surfaces in environmental systems as a result of chemical and physical conditions. Many researchers reporting on colloidal detachment in natural and model systems have stopped short of mechanistically and quantitatively describing their observations. In this work, a mathematical construct is presented that quantitatively determines the effect of thermodynamics and hydrodynamics on particle detachment from surfaces in granular media. Using the Buckingham π theorem, a mathematical model is structured based on governing dimensionless groupings. Determining dimensionless numbers elucidates conditions conducive for detachment in engineered and natural porous media. Published detachment data are compared to the mathematical model developed herein and provide support for its utility. Extensions of this technique have utility in many applications where fluid interaction with particulate-laden porous media is encountered.
On extensions of Hoeffding’s inequality for panel data

Abstract Hoeffding’s inequality provides a probability bound for the deviation between the average of n independent bounded random variables and its mean. This paper introduces two inequalities that extend Hoeffding’s inequality to panel data, which consists of several mutually independent sequences of dependent data with strong mixing or with a dependence structure being even more general than strong mixing. One is denoted as the Bosq’s Extension which is an extension of Bosq’s inequality ( Bosq, 1993 ) to panel data and the other one is called the Triplex Extension, which extends the Triplex inequality ( Jiang, 2009 ) to panel data. The Bosq’s Extension provides a tighter upper probability bound, while the Triplex Extension is more relaxed in assumption allowing unboundedness and more general dependence than strong mixing. We also apply these two inequalities to establish the convergence rate of empirical risk minimization for high dimensional panel data with variable selection.
Molar Uprighting with T-Loop Springs

Two springs for uprighting molars that feature a single T-loop or a pair of T-loops are described. These orthodontic appliances are easy to fabricate, give good control in three planes of space, and consistently yield satisfactory results.
Nicotine stimulation of extracellular glutamate levels in the nucleus accumbens: neuropharmacological characterization.

In the present study, we have characterized the neuropharmacological regulation of nicotine-induced increases in extracellular nucleus accumbens glutamate levels. Sprague-Dawley rats were stereotaxically implanted with 2 mm microdialysis probes in the nucleus accumbens and on the following day in vivo microdialysis experiments were performed in awake, freely moving animals. An acute dose of nicotine (0.3–0.6 mg/kg, s.c.) produced an increase in nucleus accumbens glutamate levels with a maximal increase of approximately 50% following the higher dose. No changes in nucleus accumbens aspartate levels were found. The increase in glutamate levels following nicotine (0.3 mg/kg, s.c.) was blocked by mecamylamine (1 mg/kg, i.p.) but not by haloperidol (0.2 mg/kg, i.p.) pretreatment. Local perfusion of artificial cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) without calcium did not alter nicotine (0.3 mg/kg, s.c.) stimulation of glutamate levels. Local perfusion with a selective blocker for the GLT-1 glutamate transporter, dihydrokainic acid (DHKA) (10-4 M), had no effect, while local perfusion with a nonselective glutamate transporter blocker, L-trans-pyrrolidine-2,4-dicarboxylic acid (PDC) (10-4 M), blocked nicotine (0.3 mg/kg, s.c.) stimulation of glutamate levels. In animals previously dopamine denervated by local injections of 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) into the nucleus accumbens, nicotine (0.3 mg/kg, s.c.) stimulation of glutamate levels was enhanced vs. sham-lesioned animals. These findings demonstrate a novel form of nucleus accumbens glutamate release that is dopamine- and calcium-independent. The ability of PDC to block the effects of nicotine suggest that a glutamate transporter may be involved in mediating the stimulation of glutamate release. Synapse 35:129–136, 2000. © 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
The Immunizing Power of Nucleohiston and of Histon

The results obtained in the preceding experiments may be briefly summarized as follows: 1. Nucleohiston does not protect against a separate and subcutaneous injection of tetanus toxin, diphtheria toxin, hog-cholera bacillus, or anthrax bacillus. 2. Mixtures of nucleohiston and either tetanus toxin or diphtheria toxin lose their specific toxic action—the latter much more rapidly than the former. Animals that recover after inoculation of such mixtures are not rendered immune. 3. In a mixture of nucleohiston and anthrax bacillus the latter is unaffected, even after the lapse of eleven days. 4. The destruction of specific toxins in a solution of nucleohiston, though in part due to sodium carbonate, is probably chiefly due to the nucleohiston. 5. Histon does not protect against a separate and subcutaneous injection of tetanus toxin, diphtheria toxin, hog-cholera bacillus, or anthrax bacillus. 6. In a mixture of histon and diphtheria toxin the latter is destroyed in a few minutes. This action is in part, if not wholly, due to the acidity of the histon solution. Similar mixtures of closely related bodies, serum globulin or albumoses, in Witte's pepton, give analogous results. The animals that recover from such inoculations are not rendered immune. Histon does not destroy the tetanus toxin as readily as the diphtheria toxin. 7. Histon possesses decided and marked toxic properties which are not due to the hydrochloric acid present.
Anion-exchange separation of Pt and Pd using perchloric and hydrochloric acid solutions

On Biorad Ag-1X8 anion-exchange resin (200–400 mesh), Pd and Pt may be separated from one another by elution with 0.2M HClO4, and 5M HClO4, respectively. If present, Au may be retained by making the elutriants 0.003M in HCl. Alternatively, reduction by H2SO3 enables elution of Pt2+ with 6M HCl before recovery of Pd2+ with 0.2M HClO4·Ir4+ is reduced to Ir3+ by H2SO3 and may be eluted ahead of Pt2+ by 2M HCl.
Multi-factor term structure models

This is a survey of multi-factor structure models, concentrating on models in which the term structure has a finite-dimensional (Markov diffusion) state-space representation. The special ‘affine’ case is shown to be tractable.
Comparison of galactose-1-phosphate uridyl transferase in fetal and adult tissues

Abstract Galactose-1-phosphate uridyl transferase, the enzyme deficient in galactosemia, is demonstrated to be present in erythrocytes from fetuses of 12–30 weeks gestation. The specific activity and starch gel electrophoretic pattern of this enzyme in fetal erythrocytes is virtually identical to that found in erythrocytes postnatally. This enzyme was also studied in cultured fibroblasts from skin and amniotic cells and found to have similar specific activity and identical electrophoretic mobility in tissues from both sources. There does not appear to be a fetal isozyme for galactose-1-phosphate uridyl transferase in either erythrocytes or cultured fibroblasts. Thus, with fetal erythrocytes obtained by fetoscopy, it is likely that prenatal diagnosis of galactosemia can be rapidly and reliably accomplished
Synaptic Strengths For Neural Simulation Of The Traveling Salesman Problem

The use of neural-like networks to solve optimization problems such as the Traveling Salesman Problem has been proposed by Hopfield and Tank. The networks are based on a standard "neuron" which can be implemented by means of voltage amplifiers. The gain of network conductances and time constants as well as the value of constants in the problem's energy function have a decisive influence on the solution provided by the network, yet Hopfield and Tank do not make clear how to determine the value of these constants for a particular problem. In this paper a method for selection of constants is proposed which gives good results for the TSP. Instead of readjusting the gains and adding terms to the energy function until good results are obtained, the gains are chosen a priori and the energy function's original form is not altered. Simulation results are presented and discussed.
Myasthenia gravis: Review of diagnosis and management

Although the cause of myasthenia gravis is still unknown, its pathogenesis appears clear: immunologic attack on synaptic receptors in muscle causes receptor deficiency, decreased miniature endplate potentials, and decrements in the compound action potentials evoked from muscles on repetitive stimulation of peripheral nerves. In addition to the involvement of skeletal muscle, some MG patients may manifest subtle alterations of the function of heart, lung, smooth muscle, and CNS, indicating that this is truly a systemic disorder. Modern therapy involves adjusting treatment to the needs of individual patients. Anticholinesterases, calcium, ephedrine, potassium, and germine partially correct the defect in neuromuscular transmission; prednisone, ACTH, cytotoxic drugs, antilymphocyte serums, gamma globulin, thoracic duct drainage, plasmapheresis, and thymectomy partially modify the abnormalities of the immune system.
A micromethod for determination of terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT) in the diagnostic evaluation of acute leukemias.

A micromethod for the determination of TdT in peripheral leukocytes and bone marrow cells has been developed that allows unequivocal identification and quantitation of TdT in less than 1 x 106 leukocytes from ALL patients, i.e., in 1 ml of peripheral blood and/or 0.5 ml of bone marrow obtained during routine clinical sampling. The method involves disruption of cell pellet with high salt and detergent followed by centrifugation of extracts at 12,000 x g and partial purification on phosphocellulose matrix by a batch elution technique using a standard laboratory microcentrifuge. Using this microassay, TdT activities have been determined in 500 samples of peripheral blood and bone marrow of 240 adult patients with acute leukemias (86 ALL, 108 ANLL, 44 blastic CML, two acute leukemias following P. vera). From an analysis of our data based on TdT activity, cell surface markers and growth patterns in soft agar and observations published in the literature, it can be concluded that the frequencies of TdT + phenotypes in the various clinicalmorphological diagnostic groups are approximately 95% in ALL, 10% in ANLL, 50% in AUL, and 35% in blastic CML. Since the presence of high TdT activity is clearly associated with clinical response to specific forms of chemotherapy in blastic CML and most probably, also in ANLL, the determination of TdT should be considered in all cases of acute leukemias to objectively define prognostically important subgroups which can not be diagnosed by conventional means.
Finite element prediction of the fatigue limit of steel

The fatigue properties of a material are traditionally described by a stress-life (S-N) curve, i . e . , the relationship between the applied cyclic stress and the number of cycles required to cause failure. At low cyclic stresses, the fatigue life extends to 107 to 108 cycles and effectively defines a fatigue endurance limit or fatigue strength. Recently, we described a method tq of predicting this highcycle regime for precipitation-hardened aluminum alloys. The basic concept is that the rate-controlling process is the development of persistent slip bands (PSBs). We represented a PSB by a finite element model and calculated the strain field of the PSB and its environs under the action of a remote stress. We proposed that the elongation of a PSB is controlled by the plastic strain (ep) n e a r its tip and derived a fatigue damage (D) criteflon to describe the weakening of the matrix:
Revisiting lithium-associated hyperparathyroidism in the era of intraoperative parathyroid hormone monitoring

Background Chronic lithium therapy may cause hyperparathyroidism (HPT). The utility of intraoperative parathyroid hormone monitoring (IOPTH) in these patients is unknown. The authors' hypothesis was that multiglandular disease is more common in these patients, and the ability of IOPTH to predict cure may be limited. Methods Twelve patients had HPT during chronic lithium therapy and underwent parathyroidectomy with IOPTH. Criteria for curative resection were a decrease ≥50% from baseline and into the normal range. Calcium and PTH levels were measured during follow-up. Results Preoperatively, mean calcium was 11.0 ± 0.1 mg/dL, and PTH was 116 ± 14 pg/mL. Fifty percent of patients had multiglandular disease confirmed by IOPTH levels. Mean IOPTH decrease from baseline was 74 ± 4%. Although 10 of 12 patients met criteria for curative resection, only 8 remain normocalcemic. The 2 patients who did not meet criteria remain normocalcemic. Mean postoperative calcium for all patients was 9.5 ± 0.2 mg/dL. Of the 10 normocalcemic patients, 4 also have hyperparathormonemia (mean PTH, 119 ± 19 pg/mL). Conclusions The incidence of multiglandular disease in HPT after chronic lithium exposure is higher than standard HPT. The ability of IOPTH to predict durable normocalcemia is limited. Bilateral neck exploration should be considered for these patients regardless of whether IOPTH monitoring is used.
SU‐FF‐I‐83: Quantitative Analysis of Low Contrast Image Quality in Fluoroscopic Systems

Purpose: Visual assessment methods lack the precision to detect subtle changes in the low contrast performance of portable fluoroscopes used for surgical guidance. The purpose of this study is to develop a simple and reproducible quantitative method for measuring the low contrast imaging capability of portable fluoroscopes for quality assurance purposes. Method and Materials: Images of a low contrast detectability phantom were captured using a portable fluoroscope routinely used for intraoperative imaging. The phantom consisted of a 2.5 cm acrylic sheet containing 6 circular holes of 1.9 cm diameter, each filled with a different concentration of iodine. Two different dose rate modes were employed, and copper filtration was varied between 0 and 3 mm to produce a set of images spanning a range of subject contrast and quantum noise. Fluoroscopic last‐image‐hold frames were saved in DICOM format and transferred to a computer for analysis. The absolute contrast, contrast‐to‐noise ratio (CNR) and signal‐difference‐to‐noise ratio (SdNR) were calculated for each low contrast target. Five blinded human observers evaluated and scored the phantom images by counting the number of visible objects. The human observer scores were pooled and ranked, as were the quantitative metrics. The rankings were compared using the non‐parametric Spearman rank correlation coefficient. Results: The rank correlation coefficients between human scoring and quantitative scoring were statistically significant for absolute contrast (rs=0.869, p<0.01), CNR (rs=0.940, p<0.005) and SdNR (rs=0.940, p<0.005). Conclusion: The agreement with human observer ranking indicates that these quantitative image quality measurements may be suitable for use in the routine assessment of fluoroscopic systems for quality control purposes. This method eliminates the subjectivity, variability and bias inherent in quality control based on visual assessment by an individual observer.
One hundred consecutive thymectomies for myasthenia gravis.

Background. Between June 1977 and November 1993, 100 consecutive thymectomies for myasthenia gravis were performed at University of North Carolina Hospitals in Chapel Hill. Methods. A consistent, planned protocol involving preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative care was followed. All thymectomies were performed through a median sternotomy with removal of all visible thymus and perithymic fat in the anterior mediastinum. Results. There was no perioperative mortality or long-term morbidity. Mean postoperative hospital stay was 6.3 days (range, 3 to 18 days). Ninety-six percent of the patients were extubated the day of the operation, and all patients were extubated within 24 hours. Mean postoperative intensive care unit stay was 1.2 days (range, 1 to 4 days). After a mean follow-up of 65 months (range, 1 to 199 months), 78% of all patients are improved by at least one modified Osserman classification when their current status is compared with their worst preoperative disease severity. In fact, 69% of patients with mild disease preoperatively (class I, II, or III maximal severity) are in pharmacologic remission (asymptomatic without regular medication), whereas 29% of patients with severe disease (class IV or V) are in remission ( p = 0.0001). Conclusions. Our programmatic approach to thymectomy through a sternotomy has shown minimal morbidity and mortality. It is beneficial to myasthenics at both ends of the age and severity spectrum.
Acute effects of estradiol infusion and naloxone on luteinizing hormone secretion in pubertal boys.

We have shown previously in pubertal boys that testosterone (T) suppresses the nocturnal augmentation of luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion principally by decreasing LH pulse frequency. As T can be aromatised to estradiol (E2), and E2 effects on LH secretory dynamics may be separate from those of T, we examined the effects of acute E2 infusion on LH secretion in pubertal boys. Opioid receptor blockade has been reported to increase LH secretion after estradiol suppression in adult men, so we also examined whether naloxone might augment LH secretion during E2 treatment in pubertal boys. Starting at 1000 h, eight pubertal boys were given a 33 h saline infusion, followed 1 week later by an E2 infusion at 4.6 nmol/m2/h. During both infusions, four iv boluses of saline were given hourly beginning at 1200 h on the first day, and four naloxone iv boluses, 0.1 mg/kg each, were given hourly beginning at 1200 h on the second day. Blood was obtained every 15 min for LH, and every 60 min for T and E2, from 1200 h unti...
5‐Hydroxy‐4‐methyl‐4‐azatricyclo[5.2.2.02,6]undec‐8‐en‐3‐one

Two independent mol­ecules (A and B) comprise the asymmetric unit in the crystal structure of the title compound, C11H15NO2. The cyclo­hexane ring adopts a boat configuration, as does the fused cyclohexene ring that bridges the cyclohexane ring. The crystal packing is stabilized by inter­molecular O—H⋯O hydrogen bonding between the hydroxyl H atom of mol­ecule A and the ketone O atom of mol­ecule B and vice versa. These link the mol­ecules into chains running diagonally along the bc face of the unit cell.
Breaking the Rules in Japanese Schools: Kōsoku Ihan, Academic Competition, and Moral Education

From the perspective of an American observer, Japanese schools emphasize rules related to general comportment and deemphasize rules related to academic honesty. I interpret this by considering the role schooling plays within the broader process of Japanese enculturation. Compared to U.S. schools, Japanese schools are allocated greater responsibility in the discipline and moral educa tion of children, with authority extending to domains of behavior and methods of correction reserved to parents in the United States. But Japanese schools are allocated less responsibility than U.S. schools in sorting students through academic competition, despite, or because of, Japan's scholastic entrance exami-nations. Viewed in the context of their enculturative role, Japanese schools are seen to be neither as uniformly harmonious nor as generally corrupt as some outsiders have concluded.
Neutron slowing down and transport in a medium of constant cross section. I. Spatial moments

Some aspects of the problem of neutron slowing down and transport have been investigated in an infinite medium consisting of a single nuclide scattering elastically and isotropically without absorption and with energy‐independent cross sections. The method of singular eigenfunctions has been applied to the Boltzmann equation governing the Laplace transform (with respect to the lethargy variable) of the neutron flux. Formulas have been obtained for the lethargy dependent spatial moments of the scalar flux applicable in the limit of large lethargy. In deriving these formulas, use has been made of the well‐known connection between the spatial moments of the Laplace‐transformed scalar flux and the moments of the flux in the ’’eigenvalue space.’’ The calculations have been greatly aided by the construction of a closed general expression for these ’’eigenvalue space’’ moments. Extensive use has also been made of the methods of combinatorial analysis and of computer evaluation, via FORMAC, of complicated sequenc...
On-chip interconnection network for accelerator-rich architectures

Modern processors have included hardware accelerators to provide high computation capability and low energy consumption. With specific hardware implementation, accelerators can improve performance and reduce energy consumption by orders of magnitude compared to general purpose cores. However, hardware accelerators cannot tolerate memory and communication latency through extensive multi-threading; this increases the demand for efficient memory interface and network-on-chip (NoC) designs. In this paper we explore the global management of NoCs in accelerator-rich architectures to provide predictable performance and energy efficiency. Accelerator memory accesses exhibit predictable patterns, creating highly utilized network paths. Leveraging these observations we propose reserving NoC paths based on the timing information from the global manager. We further maximize the benefit of paths reservation by regularizing the communication traffic through TLB buffering and hybrid-switching. The combined effect of these optimizations reduces the total execution time by 11.3% over a packet-switched mesh NoC and 8.5% over the EVC [18] and a previous hybrid-switched NoC [29].
Chemiluminescent Emission from the Reaction of Manganese Vapor (Mnx) and Halogen Molecules (Cl2, F2)

The chemiluminescent reactions between an agglomerated flux of entrained manganese vapor (atoms and small manganese molecules) and halogen vapor (chlorine or fluorine) have been investigated under multiple collision conditions. Both reaction groups produce emission features that are readily correlated with manganese atom transitions, manganese(I) halide molecular emission, and broad features centered at 464, 530, and 720 nm which might be attributed to the manganese cluster halides or to manganese dimer. Chemical reactions involving manganese atoms and small manganese clusters are required to explain the observed emission features. The energetics of several possible metal atom, dimer, and trimer reactions are considered and correlated with the observed emission features. The energetics of some of these reactions are used to estimate the a5Σ−X7Σ energy separation in MnF. This value, 2500 ± 500 cm-1, is consistent with the value of 1743 cm-1 determined for MnH and a value of 3000 ± 500 cm-1 estimated previo...
Verb argument structure encoding during sentence production in agrammatic aphasic speakers: An eye-tracking study

a Aphasia and Neurolinguistics Research Laboratory, Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Northwestern University, 2240 Campus Dr. Evanston, IL 60208, USA b Department of Neurology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA c Cognitive Neurology and Alzheimer’s Disease Center, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA d Department of Psychology, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
Disparities and distrust: The implications of psychological processes for understanding racial disparities in health and health care

This paper explores the role of racial bias toward Blacks in interracial relations, and in racial disparities in health care in the United States. Our analyses of these issues focuses primarily on studies of prejudice published in the past 10 years and on health disparity research published since the report of the US Institute of Medicine (IOM) Panel on Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Health Care in 2003. Recent social psychological research reveals that racial biases occur implicitly, without intention or awareness, as well as explicitly, and these implicit biases have implications for understanding how interracial interactions frequently produce mistrust. We further illustrate how this perspective can illuminate and integrate findings from research on disparities and biases in health care, addressing the orientations of both providers and patients. We conclude by considering future directions for research and intervention.
The changing spectrum of diabetes in Mexican American youth

Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is now a pediatric disease. As in adults, it disproportionately affects ethnic and racial minorities, including Hispanics. The preponderance of Hispanics in south Texas are of Mexican American (MA) heritage. Over the past 16 years, we have accumulated a large cohort of children with diabetes. We have noted distinct differences in numerous parameters between MA children with T2DM and those with type 1 diabetes (T1DM). In order to explore these observations, we have reviewed the records of all children diagnosed with diabetes (n = 669) during the 9 years between January, 1990 and December, 1998 and seen by our pediatric diabetes group. In this cohort were 329 MA, 287 non-Hispanic whites (EA) and 53 African Americans. Compared to EA children with T1DM, MA children were more likely to have a parent with diabetes, to be hospitalized at the time of diagnosis and to lack health insurance. The differences between MA children with T1DM and T2DM were significant: specifically, children with T2DM were more likely to be female and pubertal with a body mass index >25 kg/m2 and have acanthosis nigricans. Slightly more than 2/3 of the MA children with T2DM had at least one parent already diagnosed with T2DM. Less than 1/3 of the children with T2DM required hospitalization at the time of diagnosis and only a 1/4 have private health insurance. Over this 9-year interval, the apparent incidence of diabetes almost tripled in south Texas with the great majority of that increase due to the increasing numbers of children with T2DM.
Multi-valued nanoelectronics with fullerenes

This paper researches the electronic characteristics of fullerenes as enabling multi-terminal carbon-based electronic nanodevices. The multi-valued I-V characteristics that can be uniquely utilized in novel three-dimensional (3D) computing architectures. This drastically improves the overall performance. Functionality, density, bandwidth, power losses and other critical performance characteristics of molecular electronic nanodevices significantly exceed the performance of conventional semiconductor devices. High-fidelity modeling, heterogeneous simulation and data-intensive analysis are performed utilizing the Green function formalism within the developed CAD software tools. The numerical studies favorably agree with the experimental results.
Estimation of freeze-thaw dates of a high latitude small lake using statistical analysis of SAR images

The aim of this paper is to estimate freeze-thaw dates of a small lake using Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) images. Here, the estimation of freeze-thaw dates is restated as a classification problem wherein each SAR image in the time series is classified as an ‘ice’ or ‘no ice’ image based on the presence or absence of ice on the lake. We implement and compare different methods consisting of various feature extraction algorithms and nonparametric classification schemes. We obtain the best classification accuracy using histogram information from SAR images applied to a Random Forest classifier. Correct classification rate in the range of 90% is seen in this case and a standard median filter is used to estimate the freeze-thaw dates from the classifier output. We also extend our analysis to the use of texture features and local statistics in solving this problem.
The Effect of Derotational Humeral Osteotomy on Global Shoulder Function in Brachial Plexus Birth Palsy

Background: Derotational humeral osteotomies have been used in older children with brachial plexus birth palsy and glenohumeral joint deformity to place the upper extremity in a more functional position. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of these procedures on shoulder function and joint morphology. Methods: Forty-three patients underwent a derotational humeral osteotomy for functional impairment in the setting of internal rotation contracture and/or glenohumeral joint deformity at our institution from 1996 to 2004. Osteotomies were performed proximal to the deltoid insertion and were stabilized with plate-and-screw fixation. The average age of the patients at the time of surgery was 7.6 years (range, 2.3 to 17.0 years). Shoulder function was graded according to the modified Mallet classification system. Glenohumeral deformity was graded according to the classification scheme of Waters et al. The results for twenty-seven patients who were followed for a minimum of two years (average, 3.7 years) are reported. Results: The average amount of external rotation achieved with osteotomy was 64° (range, 35° to 90°). The mean aggregate Mallet classification score improved from 13 to 18 points (p < 0.01). The mean Mallet classification scores for the individual elements similarly demonstrated improvement following osteotomy, with the greatest gains in hand-to-mouth, hand-to-neck, and external rotation motions. The mean classification of the glenohumeral deformity was type IV preoperatively and postoperatively, signifying the persistence of glenohumeral dysplasia. There were no nonunions. One patient required a revision osteotomy for inadequate initial correction. One patient sustained a humeral fracture distal to the plate fixation because of sports-related trauma. Conclusions: Derotational humeral osteotomy improves shoulder function in patients with brachial plexus birth palsy, internal rotation contracture, and/or advanced glenohumeral joint deformity. This osteotomy provides an attractive treatment option for patients with brachial plexus birth palsy who have advanced glenohumeral dysplasia precluding soft-tissue releases and tendon transfers. Level of Evidence: Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions to Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Initial data for Einstein's equations with superposed gravitational waves

A method is presented to construct initial data for Einstein's equations as a superposition of a gravitational wave perturbation on an arbitrary stationary background spacetime. The method combines the conformal thin sandwich formalism with linear gravitational waves, and allows detailed control over characteristics of the superposed gravitational wave like shape, location and propagation direction. It is furthermore fully covariant with respect to spatial coordinate changes and allows for very large amplitude of the gravitational wave.
Pattern generation in cellular robotic systems

A computational model of cellular robotic systems (CRSs) is introduced. It employs a large (but finite) number of autonomous robots operating on a cellular space under distributed control. No synchronous clock or shared memory is assumed. Robots in such systems have to cooperate to accomplish prespecified global tasks under the government of a protocol. The problem of robots in a CRS spatially rearranging themselves to form desired patterns within the field of operation is discussed. Example protocols that generate alternating and arbitrarily predefined patterns in one-dimensional linear arrangements and protocols that make robots seal one side or all sides of two-dimensional grids are presented. Mathematical proofs of the correctness of these protocols have been obtained. A Sun-Unix based simulation platform has been implemented upon which the pattern forming protocols are exercised. >
Impact of Explicit Atmosphere–Ocean Coupling on MJO-Like Coherent Structures in Idealized Aquaplanet Simulations

This paper discusses the impact of the atmosphere–ocean coupling on the large-scale organization of tropical convection simulated by an idealized global model applying the Cloud-Resolving Convection Parameterization (CRCP; superparameterization). Because the organization resembles the Madden–Julian Oscillation (MJO), the results contribute to the debate concerning the role of atmosphere–ocean coupling in tropical intraseasonal oscillations. The modeling setup is an aquaplanet with globally uniform mean sea surface temperature (SST) of 30°C (tropics everywhere) in radiative–convective quasi equilibrium. The simulations apply an interactive radiation transfer model and a slab ocean model with a fixed oceanic mixed layer depth. Results from several 80and 100-day-long simulations are discussed, where the only difference between the simulations is the prescribed oceanic mixed layer depth, which varied from 5 to 45 m. A simulation with a very deep oceanic mixed layer is also performed to represent constant-SST conditions. The simulations demonstrate that the interactive SST impedes the development of large-scale organization and has insignificant impact on the dynamics of mature MJO-like systems. The impediment is the result of a negative feedback between the large-scale organization of convection and SST, the convection–SST feedback. In this feedback, SST increases in regions of already suppressed convection and decreases in regions with enhanced convection, thus hindering the large-scale organization. Once developed, however, the MJO-like systems are equally strong in interactive and constant-SST simulations, and compare favorably with the observed MJO. The above impacts of the atmosphere–ocean coupling contradict the majority of previous studies using traditional general circulation models, where, typically, an enhancement of the intraseasonal signal occurs compared to prescribed-SST simulations. An explanation of this discrepancy is suggested.
The Neurobiology of Nociceptive and Anti-Nociceptive Systems

Pain is both a sensory event of the peripheral and central nervous systems and an experience that arises from, and reciprocally can affect processes of higher consciousness. Alterations in peripheral and central neuraxes can lead to sensitization, structural modification and long-term potentiation that can overcome modulatory influence(s) and change the non-linear adaptability of these systems to a progressively linear, pathologic state with a diverse constellation of clinical signs and symptoms. Recent progress in molecular biology, neurochemistry and neuroanatomy has led to significant advancement in understanding the interactive roles of these heterogeneous systems in mediating and modulating various types of pain. This review concisely provides an overview of the structure and function of these substrates. As we reach the midpoint in a decade marked by pain control and research, such knowledge is critical to further both a more comprehensive appreciation of the phenomenon that is pain, and the development of therapeutic interventions that are innovative and effective.
Use-Effectiveness of Oral Contraceptives by Demographic Characteristics

To determine which patients benefit the most from oral contraceptives a use-effectiveness study was undertaken by the Planned Parenthood Center of Buffalo New York involving 2000 oral contraceptive users between 1962 and 1968. Synthetic cohort life tables were compiled by various demographic characteristics using the Tietze procedure. Average age of the users was 24.9 years. 54.2% had an economic status of low-income and 36.3% a low-middle income. Continuations of use rate after one year was 82% after two years was 68% and dropped to 34% after 6 years. Women on combined oral contraceptives (66.6%) experienced significantly higher continuation rates and lower accidental pregnancy rates than women on sequential contraceptives. Younger women and those of lower parity appear to be at the greatest risk to oral contraceptive failure which is a similar finding for intrauterine device use-effectiveness. Physicians assuming high continuation rates for oral contraceptives should be made aware of these findings and a new contraceptive method for this high-risk group should be sought.
Protistan diversity and activity inferred from RNA and DNA at a coastal ocean site in the eastern North Pacific

Microbial eukaryotes fulfill key ecological positions in marine food webs. Molecular approaches that connect protistan diversity and biogeography to their diverse metabolisms will greatly improve our understanding of marine ecosystem function. The majority of molecular-based studies to date use 18S rRNA gene sequencing to characterize natural microbial assemblages, but this approach does not necessarily discriminate between active and non-active cells. We incorporated RNA sequencing into standard 18S rRNA gene sequence surveys with the purpose of assessing those members of the protistan community contributing to biogeochemical cycling (active organisms), using the ratio of cDNA (reverse transcribed from total RNA) to 18S rRNA gene sequences within major protistan taxonomic groups. Trophically important phytoplankton, such as diatoms and chlorophytes exhibited seasonal trends in relative activity. Additionally, both radiolaria and ciliates displayed previously unreported high relative activities below the euphotic zone. This study sheds new light on the relative metabolic activity of specific protistan groups and how microbial communities respond to changing environmental conditions.
Development of a Compact Narrow-linewidth Tunable Ultraviolet Laser Source for Detection of Hg0.

A portable laser for real-time, stand-off detection of Hg0emissions from coal-fired power plants is developed and characterized. The pulse energy of the 254-nm laser is 1.8 μJ, which will enable sub-ppb detection of Hg0.
Rhinoplasty: The Experts' Reference

Anthony P. Sclafani, ed. Rhinoplasty: The Experts' Reference . New York, NY : Thieme, 2015. ISBN-13: 978-1604068672, ISBN-10: 1604068671. $229.99. ![Graphic][1] Dr Anthony Sclafani, Director of Facial Plastic Surgery at New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, has brought together the best rhinoplasty articles from the journal Facial Plastic Surgery in this text, Rhinoplasty: The Experts' Reference . This book covers all aspects of rhinoplasty in 83 reprinted articles from a variety of both nationally- and internationally-renowned plastic and facial plastic surgeons. My initial impression of this book was that it was comprehensive and offers multiple viewpoints on various problems in rhinoplasty. For example, it was both exciting and informative to see that multiple points of view are given on difficult topics such as the asymmetric nose and Asian rhinoplasty. The main strength of this book is that the reprinted articles represent key publications in rhinoplasty that are presented in a logical order by experts in the field. All of the critical aspects of rhinoplasty are covered, including patient analysis, patient consultation, management of all parts of the operation, management of … Corresponding Author: Dr Aaron M. Kosins, 1441 Avocado Avenue, Suite 308, Newport Beach, CA 92660, USA. E-mail: aaron{at}aaronkosinsmd.com [1]: /embed/inline-graphic-1.gif
Objective and Symptomatic Reversal of Autoimmune Gastrointestinal Dysmotility with Immunotherapy (P05.208)

Objective: To report the utility of scintigraphy as a marker of improvement in autoimmune gastrointestinal dysmotility. Background Autoimmune gastrointestinal dysmotility (AGID) is an under-recognized cause of abnormal gastrointestinal transit, in part because of limited diagnostic tests and a lack of documented evidence of improvement after treatment. Design/Methods: We included five female patients evaluated at Mayo Clinic from 2008 – 2011 with suspected AGID and in whom scintigraphy pre and post immunotherapy demonstrated improvement. Results: Symptom onset occurred at a median age of 48 years (range, 34-70), was subacute (≤8 weeks) in 2 of 5 patients and insidious (>8 weeks) in 3. Four presented with symptoms of constipation; 3 bloating; 2 severe weight loss; 2 nausea/vomiting; 2 diarrhea; 1 early satiety, and 1 abdominal pain. Symptoms in 2 arose in the setting of pandysautonomia; in 2 as a component of multifocal neurological disease, and in 1 were isolated. Neural-specific autoantibodies were detected in 3 patients (ganglionic AChR, 2; peripherin, 1). Pre-immunotherapy scintigraphy revealed abnormally slow gastrointestinal transit in all 5 patients. Invasive manometric tests performed in two patients revealed neuropathic abnormalities. The median delay to AGID diagnosis was 12 months (range, 11-18 months). Clues to this diagnosis included: presence of neural autoantibodies in 3; evidence of a multifocal neurological disorder in 3; pandysautonomia in 2; coexisting organ-specific autoimmunity in 3; and multilevel GI dysmotility in 2. Immunotherapies included: intravenous methylprednisolone, 3, and intravenous immune globulin, 2. Four of the five patients reported symptom improvement. Scintigraphy post-immunotherapy revealed improvements in all five patients in the following regions: gastric emptying, 2; small-bowel transit, 3; and colonic-motility, 4. Conclusions: This report provides objective evidence that AGID is reversible by immunotherapy. Scintigraphy is a useful aid for confirming the diagnosis, detecting subclinical improvements and thus identifying patients who may benefit from longer-term immunosuppression. Disclosure: Dr. Flanagan has nothing to disclose. Dr. Saito has nothing to disclose. Dr. Lennon has nothing to disclose. Dr. Fealey has nothing to disclose. Dr. Pittock has received research support from Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Randomized, Double-Blinded Trial of Magnesium Sulfate Tocolysis versus Intravenous Normal Saline for Preterm Nonsevere Placental Abruption.

Objective To evaluate the efficacy and safety of magnesium sulfate in the resolution of vaginal bleeding and contractions in nonsevere placental abruption. Study Design Thirty women between 24 and 34 weeks of gestation diagnosed with nonsevere placental abruption were randomized to receive magnesium sulfate tocolysis or normal saline infusion. The primary outcome was the proportion of women undelivered at 48 hours with resolution of vaginal bleeding and uterine contractions. Maternal and neonatal outcomes were also compared. Results Fifteen (50%) women received magnesium sulfate tocolysis and 15 (50%) received intravenous saline. There was no difference in the number of women who were undelivered at 48 hours with resolution of vaginal bleeding and contractions in the magnesium sulfate (80.0%) and saline (66.7%; p -value = 0.68) groups. There were no differences between groups in the gestational age at randomization, time to uterine quiescence, time on study drug, length of hospitalization, days from randomization to delivery, incidence of side effects, or admissions to the neonatal intensive care unit. Conclusions Magnesium sulfate tocolysis did not provide a significant difference in pregnancy prolongation in the management of preterm nonsevere placental abruption. Recruitment goals were not met due to the introduction of the use of magnesium sulfate for neuroprotection.
The effect of different variables on in-plane radial permeability of natural fiber mats:

There has been a vast growth in manufacturing of fiber reinforced plastics by means of liquid composite molding such as resin transfer molding and vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding processes. ...