cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A new approach to carotid angioplasty and stenting with transcervical occlusion and protective shunting: why it may be a better carotid artery intervention

Abstract Objective The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and demonstrate the advantages of a new technique for carotid angioplasty and stenting (CAS) with proximal cerebral protection through a direct transcervical approach, as compared with a percutaneous transfemoral approach. Methods CAS procedures were carried out in 25 consecutive patients, 4 with the femoral approach and 21 through a 2-cm incision at the base of the neck, with the patient under local anesthesia. For transcervical occlusion and protective shunting (TOPS), a short 9F sheath was inserted directly into the common carotid artery and connected to a 6F sheath placed percutaneously in the ipsilateral internal jugular vein. After clamping the common carotid artery proximal to the 9F sheath, internal carotid artery blood flow reversal was confirmed or an occluding external carotid balloon was placed. A filter interposed between the arterial and venous sheaths collected embolic debris from transcarotid manipulations. The arterial puncture was directly repaired with suture. Neurologic status was assessed with the National Institutes of Health stroke scale by an independent neurology consultant before and after the procedure. Results One of the four percutaneous femoral approaches that failed because of tortuous anatomy was successfully treated with TOPS. Angiographic confirmation demonstrating resolution of asymptomatic (>80%; n=12) stenosis or symptomatic (>60%; n=12) stenosis was achieved in all patients with stents. A 0% technical failure rate and 0% combined 30-day stroke or mortality rate were achieved in all CAS attempted with TOPS. There were no hematomas in the cervical group, despite pretreatment with clopidogrel bisulfate and heparin, and one hematoma in the femoral group after failure of a Perclose arterial closure device. In one of the patients in the femoral group bilateral cholesterol emboli to the toes developed. Conclusion TOPS solves problems of access, embolization into the cerebral and peripheral circulation, and specialized cerebral protection devices, and enables secure closure of the access vessel in patients given anticoagulation therapy. TOPS may provide a safer, more effective, economical means for performing CAS.
Maintaining correctness in scientific programs

Combine a high rate of change (which makes correctness hard to maintain) with an increased sensitivity to failure to maintain correctness and you have a big problem. Solving this problem must be the focus of our methodology. In this paper, the author describes the layered approach that he found to be the most successful in maintaining correctness in the face of rapid change.
The establishment of polarity and enhanced transcytosis of transferrin receptors in enterocyte-like Caco-2 cells.

AbstractThe effect of enterocyte-like differentiation on the transferrin receptor (TfR) polarity in filter-grown Caco-2 cells was studied. The ratio of apical to basolateral TfRs which was found to be approximately 1:1 on the first day after the cells had reached confluence, changed to 1:40 eight days after reaching confluence. The transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER), transport of horseradish peroxidase (HRP) across the monolayer, and total cellular TfR number remained constant over this period. However, the activity of brush border membrane-associated alkaline phosphatase, an established marker for enterocyte differentiation, increased over this 8-day period concurrent with a decrease in apical TfR number. These results suggest that enterocyte-like differentiation rather than tight junction formation is most likely responsible for the polarized distribution of TfRs in Caco-2 cells. The effects of the fungal metabolite brefeldin A (BFA) on TfR distribution and TfR-mediated transcytosis in Caco-2 ...
Ganglion cell loss in relation to visual disability in multiple sclerosis.

Purpose We used high-resolution spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) with retinal segmentation to determine how ganglion cell loss relates to history of acute optic neuritis (ON), retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thinning, visual function, and vision-related quality of life (QOL) in multiple sclerosis (MS). Design Cross-sectional study. Participants A convenience sample of patients with MS (n = 122; 239 eyes) and disease-free controls (n = 31; 61 eyes). Among MS eyes, 87 had a history of ON before enrollment. Methods The SD-OCT images were captured using Macular Cube (200×200 or 512×128) and ONH Cube 200×200 protocols. Retinal layer segmentation was performed using algorithms established for glaucoma studies. Thicknesses of the ganglion cell layer/inner plexiform layer (GCL+IPL), RNFL, outer plexiform/inner nuclear layers (OPL+INL), and outer nuclear/photoreceptor layers (ONL+PRL) were measured and compared in MS versus control eyes and MS ON versus non-ON eyes. The relation between changes in macular thickness and visual disability was also examined. Main Outcome Measures The OCT measurements of GCL+IPL and RNFL thickness; high contrast visual acuity (VA); low-contrast letter acuity (LCLA) at 2.5% and 1.25% contrast; on the 25-item National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire (NEI-VFQ-25) and 10-Item Neuro-Ophthalmic Supplement composite score. Results Macular RNFL and GCL+IPL were significantly decreased in MS versus control eyes ( P P = 0.001) and in MS ON versus non-ON eyes ( P P ≤0.001), 2.5% LCLA ( P P ≤0.001). Among OCT measurements, reductions in GCL+IPL ( P P = 0.006), and the combination (macular RNFL+GCL+IPL; P P = 0.03 for GCL+IPL, P = 0.39 for macular RNFL). Conclusions We demonstrated that GCL+IPL thinning is most significantly correlated with both visual function and vision-specific QOL in MS, and may serve as a useful structural marker of disease. Our findings parallel those of magnetic resonance imaging studies that show gray matter disease is a marker of neurologic disability in MS. Financial Disclosure(s) Proprietary or commercial disclosure may be found after the references.
Accurate determination of microparticle size using Fourier transform of light scattering spectrum over wavenumber

We discovered that the far-field light scattering spectra of microparticles over wavenumber at a certain angle could be decomposed into periodic components, with an oscillation frequency linearly dependent on the particle size at each angle. Based on this observation, we propose and experimentally demonstrate a new Fourier transform technique for microparticle size determination. This technique is simple, fast, robust in its data processing algorithm, and flexible in its detection system.
Analogical mapping by constraint satisfaction

A theory of analogical mapping between source and target analogs based upon interacting structural, semantic, and pragmatic constraints is proposed here. The structural constraint of isomorphism encourages mappings that maximize the consistency of relational corresondences between the elements of the two analogs. The constraint of semantic similarity supports mapping hypotheses to the degree that mapped predicates have similar meanings. The constraint of pragmatic centrality favors mappings involving elements the analogist believes to be important in order to achieve the purpose for which the analogy is being used. The theory is implemented in a computer program called ACME (Analogical Constraint Mapping Engine), which represents constraints by means of a network of supporting and competing hypotheses regarding what elements to map. A cooperative algorithm for parallel constraint satisfaction identities mapping hypotheses that collectively represent the overall mapping that best fits the interacting constraints. ACME has been applied to a wide range of examples that include problem analogies, analogical arguments, explanatory analogies, story analogies, formal analogies, and metaphors. ACME is sensitive to semantic and pragmatic information if it is available, and yet able to compute mappings between formally isomorphic analogs without any similar or identical elements. The theory is able to account for empirical findings regarding the impact of consistency and similarity on human processing of analogies.
Adolescent borderline symptoms in the community: prognosis for functioning over 20 years

Background The long-term prognosis associated with adolescent symptoms of borderline personality disorder (BPD) in the general population is virtually unknown. In this study, the relationship of early borderline symptoms to subsequent psychosocial functioning and attainment was investigated based on data from the Children in the Community cohort. Method Using multilevel linear regression, symptoms of BPD at mean age 14 were employed as predictors of work/school/homemaker role function, social function (social support, relationship quality), and life satisfaction over the subsequent 20 years. Borderline symptoms were also employed as predictors of attainment at 20-year follow-up. Results On average, those with higher levels of early adolescent borderline symptoms scored consistently lower in role function, social function, and life satisfaction from mid-adolescence through mid-adulthood. Borderline symptoms predicted lower academic and occupational attainment, less partner involvement, and fewer attained adult developmental milestones. Adolescent borderline symptoms were also associated with adult borderline symptoms, borderline diagnosis, general impairment, and need for services at mean age 33. These effects were evident despite symptom decline with age and were independent of adolescent Axis I disorders. Conclusions Adverse prognosis associated with youth symptoms of BPD appeared early and persisted in important and interrelated life domains. These findings lend support to the utility of DSM-IV BPD symptoms assessed by self-report in early adolescence.
Contemporary Fertility Patterns and First-Birth Timing Among Mexican-Origin Women

This article examines first-birth timing among Mexican women in the United States over two birth cohorts. Currently, Mexican women are one of a small group that maintains above-replacement fertilit...
Binocularity and visual search

This paper describes a series of visual search experiments for targets defined by their hinocular characteristics. In searches for targets defined by binocular rivalry among fused distractors, or vice versa, the rivalrous items do not "pop out" (reaction time [RT] increases with number of distractors). Binocular luster, a variety of rivalry, is an exception. Luster, an important property of visible surfaces, behaves like a basic feature or "texton" (RT independent of the number of nonlustrous distractors). Searches for targets defined exclusively by eye-of-origin information are virtually impossible. Subjects respond randomly, suggesting that purely monocular information is not available for visual search. Searches for cyclopean (but nonstereoscopic) features are easy, with RTs independent of set size, suggesting that some purely binocular information is available for visual search.
An overview of systems studies of automated highway systems

A comprehensive systems study of the factors influencing the design, development, and deployment of an intelligent vehicle highway system is summarized. Candidate system concepts and system implementation strategies that have a high potential for successful deployment with a minimum of disruptive influence and cost impact on the current highway system are identified and analyzed. A system concept is recommended together with a plan for its development and deployment. >
Adaptation to Chronic Illness: A Program of Research for Testing Nursing Theory:

The adaptation to chronic illness framework, an elaboration of the Roy adaptation model for chronic illness, provided direction for a program of nursing research. The purposes of investigations within the program were (a) to identify predictors of adaptation to chronic illnesses and (b) to determine whether the relationships between the variables differed by diagnostic group. A total of 597 adults, representing various chronic illness groups, participated in longitudinal studies during a seven-year period. Health-related hardiness and engagement in health promotion activities consistently predicted both physiological and psychosocial adaptation in all chronic illness groups. In addition, the individual's perception of the degree of disability caused by the illness was related to psychosocial functioning. Comparison of adaptive responses between the groups revealed significant differences in physiological adaptation but no significant differences in psychosocial adaptation. Results clarify relationships posited using the theoretical framework and support the value of using nursing models to guide nursing research.
A preliminary investigation of decentralized control far satellite formations

A distributed satellite formation consisting of n nodes interconnected via a communications network could be controlled using a decentralized controller framework that operates in parallel over the network. For such problems, a solution that minimizes data transmission requirements, in the context of linear-quadratic control theory, was given previously by Speyer. An investigation of the feasibility of such an approach to satellite formation flying is discussed in the context of efforts sponsored by NASA and the Air Force to develop architectures, strategies, and control approaches for various proposed distributed satellite missions. Among the issues under investigation are the effects of command and data handling system and communications channel noise and latency. For example, it is likely that the measurement devices and/or their associated command and data handling systems may provide asynchronous and/or non-simultaneous measurement data. It is also probable that transmission of the data between nodes could be delayed one or more sampling periods and/or interrupted for extended intervals. Furthermore, since it is not possible to create a noise-free communications channel, errors in the transmitted data will be introduced at the level of the network, in addition to errors introduced at the measurement and state transition levels. An additional difficulty is that, in general, nonlinearities in the dynamics and measurements of the distributed satellite control problem require the use of ad-hoc procedures such as the extended Kalman filter. Therefore, a simulation methodology is adopted for the study of the aforementioned issues in this work.
Dynamic structure of production under a quota: The case of milk production in the Federal Republic of Germany

A dynamic multiple output, multiple input model is estimated within the adjustment cost framework to analyze the economic behavior of dairy producers in the Federal Republic of Germany during the first half of the 1980s. The results suggest significant behavior given the introduction of the production quota. The changes in producers' responses were driven by changes in variable input and the evolution from a symmetric to asymmetric adjustment of quasi-fixed factors. In addition, German dairy farmers are found to exhibit considerable excess capacity in production. Coauthors are Jorge Fernandez-Cornejo, Conrado M. Gempesaw II, and Joachim G. Elterich. Copyright 1992 by Oxford University Press.
Targeted Chemotherapy of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Model

Primary hepatocellular carcinoma is a malignancy that, at present, is poorly responsive to either chemotherapy or surgical intervention. In addition, metastatic cancer from colon, lung and breast primaries often involves the liver as an early site contributing significantly to morbidity and mortality. Successful chemotherapy for these conditions requires selective destruction of malignant cells by exploitation of differences between normal and malignant cells. Normal hepatocytes have surface receptors that recognize, bind and internalize galactose-terminal glycoproteins (asialoglycoproteins) by the specialized process of endocytosis. This is a complex process, characteristic of differentiated cells and, as such, is absent or poorly functional in transformed cells. We have used this functional difference between normal and malignant cells to develop a model for selective targeting of chemotherapeutic agents in hepatocellular carcinoma.
Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine Program Directors' Attitudes toward Training in Medical Education. A Nationwide Survey Study.

Rationale: Many pulmonary and critical care medicine (PCCM) fellows are interested in improving their teaching skills as well as learning about careers as clinician educators. Educational opportunities in PCCM fellowship programs designed to address these interests have not been well characterized in U.S. training programs.Objectives: We aimed to characterize educational content and structure for training fellows to teach in PCCM fellowship programs. We evaluated three major domains: (1) existing educational opportunities, (2) PCCM program directors’ attitudes toward the importance of teaching fellows how to teach, and (3) potential components of an optimal teaching skills curriculum for PCCM fellows.Methods: We surveyed program and associate program directors who were members of the Association of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine Program Directors in 2014. Survey domains included existing teaching skills content and structure, presence of a formal medical education curriculum or clinician educator tr...
Population dynamics and competitive outcome derive from resource allocation statistics: The governing influence of the distinguishability of individuals.

Abstract Model predictions for species competition outcomes highly depend on the assumed form of the population growth function. In this paper we apply an alternative inferential method based on statistical mechanics, maximizing Boltzmann entropy, to predict resource-constrained population dynamics and coexistence. Within this framework, population dynamics and competition outcome can be determined without assuming any particular form of the population growth function. The dynamics of each species is determined by two parameters: the mean resource requirement θ (related to the mean metabolic rate) and individual distinguishability D r (related to intra- compared to interspecific functional variation). Our theory clarifies the condition for the energetic equivalence rule (EER) to hold, and provide a statistical explanation for the importance of species functional variation in determining population dynamics and coexistence patterns.
A New Improved Tirecord Fatigue Tester

Abstract Based on the illustrations presented, it is suggested that the SCEF fatigue tester has given realistic results, consistent with general principles established in tire dynamics analysis and performance. It has done this with a simple test specimen, yet one which locates the test cord in an environment similar to that found in service. Testing results have been reproducible and obtained in a reasonable time. It is felt that it will make a unique and meaningful contribution to the laboratory evaluation of fatigue performance characteristics of a tirecord.
IMPROVEMENTS IN MODELLING RUBBLE-MOUND BREAKWATERS

Physical modelling is a technique which is commonly used in the design procedure of rubble-mound breakwaters. For reliable results it is necessary that the model tests accurately represent the prototype situation. In this paper, two significant improvements in modelling of breakwaters are presented. They are the generation of realistic sea states at the test site, and the simulation of the breakage of the armour units by using units which have mechanical properties properly scaled from the prototype units. These techniques have been used to study the recent breakwater failure at Riviere-au-Renard, Canada.
Binary mapping of cortical spike trains in short-term memory.

Bodner, Mark, Yong-Di Zhou, and Joaquin M. Fuster. Binary mapping of cortical spike trains in short-term memory. J. Neurophysiol. 77: 2219–2222, 1997. Microelectrode studies in monkeys performing short-term memory tasks show the sustained elevated discharge of cortical neurons during the retention of recalled sensory information. Cortical cells that are part of memory networks are assumed to receive numerous inputs of excitatory as well as inhibitory nature and local as well as remote. Thus it is reasonable to postulate that the temporal and spatial summation of diverse inputs on any cell in an activated network will result in temporally discrete groups of spikes in its firing. The activation of a network in active memory supposedly increases the magnitude and diversity of those inputs and thus increases the discontinuities and frequency fluctuations in the firing of cells in the network. In this study we use a new method of analysis that allows the quantification of firing discontinuities in a spike tra...
A Single-Tube, Functional Marker-Based Multiplex PCR Assay for Simultaneous Detection of Major Bacterial Blight Resistance Genes Xa21, xa13 and xa5 in Rice ☆

Abstract In marker-assisted breeding for bacterial blight (BB) resistance in rice, three major resistance genes, viz., Xa21 , xa13 and xa5 , are routinely deployed either singly or in combinations. As efficient and functional markers are yet to be developed for xa13 and xa5 , we have developed simple PCR-based functional markers for both the genes . For xa13 , we designed a functional PCR-based marker, xa13 - prom targeting the InDel polymorphism in the promoter of candidate gene Os8N3 located on chromosome 8 of rice. With respect to xa5 , a multiplex-PCR based functional marker system, named xa5FM, consisting of two sets of primer pairs targeting the 2-bp functional nucleotide polymorphism in the exon II of the gene TFIIAɤ5 (candidate for xa5 ), has been developed. Both xa13 - prom and xa5FM can differentiate the resistant and susceptible alleles for xa13 and xa5 , respectively, in a co-dominant fashion. Using these two functional markers along with the already reported functional PCR-based marker for Xa21 (pTA248), we designed a single-tube multiplex PCR based assay for simultaneous detection of all the three major resistance genes and demonstrated the utility of the multiplex marker system in a segregating population.
A strep vaccine: how close?

For a quarter century two basic problems have frustrated would-be developers of a streptococcal vaccine: separating immunoeffective antigenicity from cardiopathic antigenicity and coping with the multiplicity of bacterial serotypes. Now with solutions to both at hand, the key question is whether the vaccine is needed. The authors describe the work to date and define the worldwide need as they see it.
The Pacemaker and its Precision

The central hypothesis of this book invokes a “pacemaker” as the source of the wake-sleep cycle. It is a matter of definition that a pacemaker is a persistent generator of regular, rhythmic output, and so at first glance the proposition that the wake-sleep cycle of vertebrates reflects a pacemaker may seem to convey nothing more than that a rhythm of some regularity has been observed. There is, however, a critical additional implication, testable by experiment, which is that wakefulness and sleep, activity and inactivity, are not themselves essential elements in the “feedback loop” which is responsible for the observed rhythm. Applied to the human experience, it is an initially appealing hypothesis that the duration of sleep is determined only by how tired one was from the preceding day’s activity; that the duration of wakefulness is then determined by how long and soundly one has slept, and how much activity has been undertaken before being again tired enough to sleep; and that the regular sequence of these two independently timed processes might lead to the daily wake-sleep cycle. This suggestion seems to comport with our ordinary experience, but it is exactly this kind of proposition that the pacemaker concept is intended to contradict.
Remote monitoring of LED lighting system performance

The concept of connected lighting systems using LED lighting for the creation of intelligent buildings is becoming attractive to building owners and managers. In this application, the two most important parameters include power demand and the remaining useful life of the LED fixtures. The first enables energy-efficient buildings and the second helps building managers schedule maintenance services. The failure of an LED lighting system can be parametric (such as lumen depreciation) or catastrophic (such as complete cessation of light). Catastrophic failures in LED lighting systems can create serious consequences in safety critical and emergency applications. Therefore, both failure mechanisms must be considered and the shorter of the two must be used as the failure time. Furthermore, because of significant variation between the useful lives of similar products, it is difficult to accurately predict the life of LED systems. Real-time data gathering and analysis of key operating parameters of LED systems can enable the accurate estimation of the useful life of a lighting system. This paper demonstrates the use of a data-driven method (Euclidean distance) to monitor the performance of an LED lighting system and predict its time to failure.
Introduction: Analog vs. Digital

We often hear that we live in a digital age. This refers to the massive adoption of computer systems within every aspect of our lives from smart phones to automobiles to household appliances. This statement also refers to the transformation that has occurred to our telecommunications infrastructure that now transmits voice, video, and data using 1’s and 0’s. There are a variety of reasons that digital systems have become so prevalent in our lives. In order to understand these reasons, it is good to start with an understanding of what a digital system is and how it compares to its counterpart, the analog system. The goal of this chapter is to provide an understanding of the basic principles of analog and digital systems.
Measurement and simulation of passive fast-ion D-alpha emission from the DIII-D tokamak

Author(s): Bolte, NG; Heidbrink, WW; Pace, D; Van Zeeland, M; Chen, X | Abstract: Spectra of passive fast-ion D-alpha (FIDA) light from beam ions that charge exchange with background neutrals are measured and simulated. The fast ions come from three sources: ions that pass through the diagnostic sightlines on their first full orbit, an axisymmetric confined population, and ions that are expelled into the edge region by instabilities. A passive FIDA simulation (P-FIDASIM) is developed as a forward model for the spectra of the first-orbit fast ions and consists of an experimentally-validated beam deposition model, an ion orbit-following code, a collisional-radiative model, and a synthetic spectrometer. Model validation consists of the simulation of 86 experimental spectra that are obtained using 6 different neutral beam fast-ion sources and 13 different lines of sight. Calibrated spectra are used to estimate the neutral density throughout the cross-section of the tokamak. The resulting 2D neutral density shows the expected increase toward each X-point with average neutral densities of 8×109cm-3 at the plasma boundary and 1×1011cm-3 near the wall. Fast ions that are on passing orbits are expelled by the sawtooth instability more readily than trapped ions. In a sample discharge, approximately 1% of the fast-ion population is ejected into the high neutral density region per sawtooth crash.
The Use of the Voxmap Pointshell Method of Collision Detection in Virtual Assembly Methods Planning

Virtual reality (VR) provides the ability to work with digital models in an environment that provides 3 dimensional interaction. This technology can be used to evaluate how humans interact with products before costly physical prototypes are built. One of the advantages of using VR technology in design evaluation is the ability to easily explore many different "what-if" design scenarios. One of the areas of current research in the use of VR is in assembly methods planning. As a result of prior work performed at Iowa State University, it became clear that collision detection is an important component in the development of virtual assembly methods planning applications. This paper describes the use of the Voxmap Pointshell method of collision detection as it is applied to a general purpose virtual assembly planning application.
Electromagnetic Separation of Radioisotopes of the Heavy Elements at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Since the early 1940’s some radioisotope separation has been intermittently performed in the calutrons located at Oak Ridge, uranium being the most notable. With minor modifications being made to the equipment, Th230 also has been separated. In 1952 one calutron system was modified to accommodate PuCl3 charge and to provide also for the total containment of plutonium during the separation process. Thus, over the past few years, the isotopes of thorium, uranium, and plutonium have been separated on a recurring basis. Isotopes having much less activity, namely Be10, Bi210, K40, Sm147, etc., have been separated more on a “when needed” basis.
Variable sensory perception in autism

Autism is associated with sensory and cognitive abnormalities. Individuals with autism generally show normal or superior early sensory processing abilities compared to healthy controls, but deficits in complex sensory processing. In the current opinion paper, it will be argued that sensory abnormalities impact cognition by limiting the amount of signal that can be used to interpret and interact with environment. There is a growing body of literature showing that individuals with autism exhibit greater trial-to-trial variability in behavioural and cortical sensory responses. If multiple sensory signals that are highly variable are added together to process more complex sensory stimuli, then this might destabilise later perception and impair cognition. Methods to improve sensory processing have shown improvements in more general cognition. Studies that specifically investigate differences in sensory trial-to-trial variability in autism, and the potential changes in variability before and after treatment, could ascertain if trial-to-trial variability is a good mechanism to target for treatment in autism.
Two machine scheduling subject to arbitrary machine availability constraint

Abstract We study two machine scheduling subject to arbitrary machine availability constraint. Each machine can have multiple unavailable intervals, and both machines can be unavailable at the same time. The jobs can be resumed after being preempted by another job or interrupted by the unavailable intervals. We consider both the single criterion and the bi-criteria problems concerning two most common criteria: makespan and the total completion time. If makespan is the single criterion to optimize, Liu and Sanlaville (1995) have shown that the optimal schedule can be found in polynomial time. If total completion time is the single criterion, the existing algorithm can only find the optimal schedules for some special cases; however, the complexity of the problem with arbitrary machine availability constraint remains open. For two bi-criteria problems, i.e., the problem of minimizing the total completion time subject to the constraint that the makespan is minimum, and the problem of minimizing makespan subject to the constraint that total completion time is minimum, their computational complexity are also open. In this paper, we show all these three open problems are in P by giving optimal algorithms that run in polynomial time. An interesting finding in this research is that these three problems are closely related to each other and thus the algorithms also rely on one another.
A regional algorithm for investigating the Patos Lagoon coastal plume using Aqua/MODIS and oceanographic data

Located in the south of Brazil, the Patos Lagoon is the world’s largest choked lagoon. The extensive mud deposits that surround its estuary indicate a substantial transport of suspended matter to the continental shelf by its plume. This study aims to develop a regional algorithm for estimating the total suspended matter of the Patos Lagoon coastal plume using remote sensing data combined with oceanographic measurements. We develop a polynomial correlating total suspended matter with the reflectance of the 667-nm-centered band of the Moderate-Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS), aboard the Aqua satellite. We use the satellite-based estimates to investigate the development and fate of the plume and to quantify the exchange processes between the estuary and the coastal zone. The seasonal averaged total amount of suspend matter exported by the plume ranged between values in the order of 106 and 107 ton. The plume shows a residual displacement to the south of the estuary mouth, though it can be transiently displaced northwards under the influence of strong southerly winds. The river discharge determines the plume’s suspended matter transport, whereas the wind shapes its form and determines its spreading. The plume’s variability shows well-marked cycles with semi-annual and quasi-annual frequencies, which could be identified by EOF and wavelet analyses.
Nonoperative Clavicle Fractures

Clavicle fractures account for 2.6–5% of all fractures treated by orthopedic practitioners (Clin Orthop Relat Res (300):127–32, 1994; J Shoulder Elb Surg 11(5):452–6, 2002). Appropriate radiographic evaluation of clavicle fractures is paramount in developing a plan of care. Today, widely accepted indications for nonoperative management in adults are nondisplaced or minimally displaced midshaft clavicle fractures and patients who are poor surgical candidates based on medical comorbidities. The optimal treatment of fractures that lie outside these indications is more controversial. All patient factors including baseline activity level, handedness, fracture pattern, patient expectation, mechanism of injury, and risk factors for nonunion should be evaluated and discussed with the patient. Nonoperative management relies on immobilization for 2–6 weeks with either sling or figure of eight brace while monitoring radiographs. Patients should be counseled that, in most cases, nonoperative management will provide a successful outcome; however, some may require delayed surgery for symptomatic nonunion or malunion. The patient and physician must discuss treatment options and come to a mutually acceptable treatment plan.
The Incorporation and Expression of Agrobacterium Plasmid Genes in Crown Gall Tumors

Ever since Smith and Townsend proved in 1907 that a bacterium is the causative agent of crown gall tumors (1), the most intriguing question has been, how does the bacterium induce these modifications? The elegant experiments of Braun and his collaborators first convincingly demonstrated that the continued presence of viable bacteria is not required for tumor formation (2). If the bacteria are heat killed about 2 days after being applied to a wounded plant the tumor develops normally. Thus, attention has focused on the identification of a putative “tumor inducing principle” elaborated by the bacteria and transferred to the plant. This paper will present evidence that this principle is a fragment of a large plasmid which is transferred to the plant.
Asymmetry between ON and OFF α ganglion cells of mouse retina: integration of signal and noise from synaptic inputs.

Key points Bipolar and amacrine cells presynaptic to the ON sustained α cell of mouse retina provide currents with a higher signal-to-noise power ratio (SNR) than those presynaptic to the OFF sustained α cell. Yet the ON cell loses proportionately more SNR from synaptic inputs to spike output than the OFF cell does. The higher SNR of ON bipolar cells at the beginning of the ON pathway compensates for losses incurred by the ON ganglion cell, and improves the processing of positive contrasts. Abstract ON and OFF pathways in the retina include functional pairs of neurons that, at first glance, appear to have symmetrically similar responses to brightening and darkening, respectively. Upon careful examination, however, functional pairs exhibit asymmetries in receptive field size and response kinetics. Until now, descriptions of how light-adapted retinal circuitry maintains a preponderance of signal over the noise have not distinguished between ON and OFF pathways. Here I present evidence of marked asymmetries between members of a functional pair of sustained α ganglion cells in the mouse retina. The ON cell exhibited a proportionately greater loss of signal-to-noise power ratio (SNR) from its presynaptic arrays to its postsynaptic currents. Thus the ON cell combines signal and noise from its presynaptic arrays of bipolar and amacrine cells less efficiently than the OFF cell does. Yet the inefficiency of the ON cell is compensated by its presynaptic arrays providing a higher SNR than the arrays presynaptic to the OFF cell, apparently to improve visual processing of positive contrasts. Dynamic clamp experiments were performed that introduced synaptic conductances into ON and OFF cells. When the amacrine-modulated conductance was removed, the ON cell's spike train exhibited an increase in SNR. The OFF cell, however, showed the opposite effect of removing amacrine input, which was a decrease in SNR. Thus ON and OFF cells have different modes of synaptic integration with direct effects on the SNR of the spike output.
But Who Protects the Moderators? The Case of Crowdsourced Image Moderation

Though detection systems have been developed to identify obscene content such as pornography and violence, artificial intelligence is simply not good enough to fully automate this task yet. Due to the need for manual verification, social media companies may hire internal reviewers, contract specialized workers from third parties, or outsource to online labor markets for the purpose of commercial content moderation. These content moderators are often fully exposed to extreme content and may suffer lasting psychological and emotional damage. In this work, we aim to alleviate this problem by investigating the following question: How can we reveal the minimum amount of information to a human reviewer such that an objectionable image can still be correctly identified? We design and conduct experiments in which blurred graphic and non-graphic images are filtered by human moderators on Amazon Mechanical Turk (AMT). We observe how obfuscation affects the moderation experience with respect to image classification accuracy, interface usability, and worker emotional well-being.
A New and Filmable Past

Explores how DeMille’s historically themed films supported a consensus of national destiny. The chapter reviews the central themes of these works and concludes with a closer reading of the historical presentism manifest in two of these films: Union Pacific and Land of Liberty, both released in 1939. The first identifies a set of widely shared values for the country and the divine providence that, DeMille believed, guided these principles. The second was the film industry’s official contribution to the 1939 New York World’s Fair and by far the most popular attraction on the Midway. Examining the director’s extensive production notes, one sees an early expression of American consensual history that mirrored contemporary academic trends in the years immediately preceding the Second World War.
Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacements: Current Trends and Future Directions.

Since the 1960s when the first aortic surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) was performed, continuous growth in the field of valvular technology has occurred. Although SAVR remains a lifesaving ...
Questioning the assumptions of the parabolic model for superconductive cuprates

The assumptions of the parabolic model are questioned. These assumptions pertain to an expectation of universal T c optima for cuprates at an “experimental” hole concentration of p = 0.16n, where n is the number of CuO2 planes. This model was developed based on the T c maximum for La2 − x Sr x CuO4 at x = 0.16. However, a variety of cases are presented for higher optimal hole concentrations, including La2CuO4.16, where it is twice as high. Also, the success of a charge order model in universally predicting optimal T c at formal stoichiometric holes, h = 0.5n, suggests a need for expansion of the parabolic model. By quantitatively taking into account the deleterious effect of the blocking layer, optimal T c can be absolutely calibrated at a uniform optimal charge order with alternate holes.
Breastfeeding initiation and duration and child health outcomes in the first baby study.

Abstract Despite the known benefits of breastmilk, associations between breastfeeding and child overall health outcomes remain unclear. We aimed to understand associations between breastfeeding and health outcomes, including child weight, through age 3. Analysis included women (N = 3006) in the longitudinal, prospective First Baby Study from 2009 to 2014. For this analysis, breastfeeding initiation and duration were measured using self-reported data from the 1-, 6- and 12-month surveys; child illnesses were analyzed from the 6-, 12-, and 24-month interviews; height and weight at age 3 were used to determine overweight/obese (≥85th percentile) and obese (≥95th percentile). Adjusted logistic regressions were utilized to determine significance. Greater duration of breastfeeding was associated with fewer reported acute illnesses at 6 months (p 6 months: 20.2%; p = 0.020) and obesity (never breastfed: 21.6%, 0–6 months: 11.0%, >6 months: 7.3%; p = 0.012). Overall, our findings support the hypothesis that duration of breastfeeding is associated with fewer reported acute illnesses at 6 months of age and diarrheal illness and/or constipation episodes at 6, 12, and 24 months. Additionally, results from our study suggest a protective effect of breastfeeding from childhood overweight/obesity, as children who received breastmilk for 6 months or longer had lower odds of overweight/obesity at age 3 years.
When It’s Not Just a Febrile Seizure: Epileptic Encephalopathy

The contribution of genetics is increasingly recognized in the field of pediatric epilepsy. Dravet syndrome is associated with difficult-to-control epilepsy and developmental, cognitive, and behavioral impairments. Identification of the genetic mutation has shed light on mechanisms that cause seizures as well as cause motor abnormalities associated with developmental regression. Recognition of this phenotype is important as it may initially present as febrile seizures, a benign pediatric condition which then progresses to a severe epileptic encephalopathy and uncontrolled epilepsy. Frequent seizures and multiple seizure medications contribute to neuropsychiatric symptoms. Understanding the mechanism of this particular condition can inform treatment and serve as a neurobiological model for other genetically mediated epilepsies.
Post-partum Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection: A Case Report.

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is a rare illness often misdiagnosed, that accounts for up to 4% of cases of acute coronary syndrome in young women. Interestingly, SCAD is the most common cause of myocardial infarction related to pregnancy. Here, we present a case of a 35-year old postpartum patient who presented in cardiac arrest due to ventricular fibrillation and was found to have a ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction. Cardiac catheterization revealed significant coronary vasospasm and dissection of the right circumflex and distal left anterior descending artery. We discuss clinical diagnosis and management of spontaneous coronary dissection along with literature review.
Combined roles of contact stimulant and deterrents in assessment of host-plant quality by ovipositing zebra swallowtail butterflies.

Zebra swallowtail (Eurytides marcellus) butterflies are stimulated to oviposit by a single compound, 3-caffeoyl-muco-quinic acid (1). Analysis of the aqueous extracts of the leaves of the host, Asimina triloba, showed that they contained stimulant 1, its isomer (2), and the flavonoids rutin (3) and nicotiflorine (4) as major components. We compared the concentrations of compounds 1–4 in terminal leaves (TL) and expanded leaves (EL) of the host plants at four different times throughout the growing season. In spring, the concentration of 1 was highest in TLs, and flavonoids were not detectable or present at low levels. As the season progressed, however, the concentrations of flavonoids increased, reached maxima by late summer, and then decreased as the plants started senescing. There were also significant differences in the concentrations of these compounds between TLs and ELs. In a choice assay with model leaves, we tested equivalent amounts of post-dichloromethane aqueous extracts made in spring (May) and in fall (September). September extracts received significantly fewer approaches and eggs. In greenhouse experiments with potted A. triloba plants, the butterflies chose some leaves to lay eggs, while others were rejected or ignored. Analyses showed that the concentrations of compound 1 were not significantly different in the three kinds of leaves. The flavonoids (3 and 4), however, were significantly higher in the leaves that were ignored. Multiple-choice tests using model plants suggested that concentrations of both flavonoids and stimulant were important in assessing host suitability. There was a gradual decrease in approaches as the concentration of 1 decreased. Higher amounts of flavonoids deterred egg laying even in the presence of high concentrations of stimulant 1. At lower concentrations of 1, the addition of low doses of flavonoids deterred egg laying. Thus, the results suggest that the butterflies use both qualitative and quantitative information about these compounds to assess host quality. This behavior may have evolved to take advantage of seasonal variation in the chemistry of their host, A. triloba.
Dynamic Characteristic Identification

This paper introduces a dynamic system parameter extraction approach using experimental data and a known characteristic equation for a single degree of freedom mass-spring-damper system. The efficacy of curve fitting to determine mass, damping, and stiffness for simulated underdamped, critically damped, and overdamped systems is explored. Two methods are investigated to obtain these characteristics for simulated systems; a step response approach in the time domain and a transfer function and dynamic stiffness approach in the frequency domain. Commonly available software, MATLAB, is used for curve fitting. An examination of the effect of inaccurate seeds, or starting values, for mass, damping, and stiffness is included.
Unusual Electronic Effects of Ancillary Ligands on the Perfluoroalkylation of Aryl Iodides and Bromides Mediated by Copper(I) Pentafluoroethyl Complexes of Substituted Bipyridines

Several perfluoroalkylcopper compounds have been reported previously that serve as reagents or catalysts for the perfluoroalkylation of aryl halides. However, the relationships between the reactivi...