cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sexual risk-taking in gay men: the relevance of sexual arousability, mood, and sensation seeking.

This paper examined the relationship of three aspects of personality to sexual risk-taking in gay men: (1). sexual arousability, as propensity for sexual excitation, and propensity for inhibition of sexual arousal in the face of threat (measured by the Sexual Excitation, SES, and Sexual Inhibition, SIS1, SIS2, scales); (2). the relation between negative mood and sexuality; and (3). sensation seeking. Risk-taking was assessed for the past 6 months in relation to unprotected anal intercourse (UAI), oral sex, number of casual partners, and patterns of cruising behavior. A combination of number of partners and use of condoms was used to derive a "longer-term risk" grouping. Two patterns of association were identified. UAI and high risk oral sex were more likely in those with low inhibition of sexual response due to "threat of performance consequences" (i.e., low SIS2) and low trait anxiety (low STAI). High numbers of casual partners and frequent cruising were associated with increased sexual interest in states of depression and high propensity for sexual excitation (SES). Higher "long-term risk" was also associated with low SIS2. Unexpectedly, high SIS1, which is strongly related to vulnerability to erectile failure, was also predictive of higher long-term risk. Possible reasons for this are discussed. Disinhibition from the Sensation Seeking Scales was a positive predictor of all types of sexual risk assessed. All three aspects of personality are of potential relevance to designing better interventions to reduce high risk sexual behavior and in evaluating their effectiveness.
Frequency shifts in a quartz plate piezoelectric resonator in contact with a viscous fluid under a separated electrode

We study thickness-shear vibration of a rotated Y-cut quartz crystal plate whose one surface is in contact with a viscous fluid layer of finite thickness. The fluid is under an el ectrode separated from the crystal plate and the driving electric field is in the plate thickness direction. The theory of piezo electricity and the theory of Newtonian fluids are used. Both free and forced vibration solutions are obtained. An approximate expression for the frequency shifts in the crystal plate du e to the fluid is presented. The admittance of the structure is also ca lculated. The results are useful for acoustic wave fluid sens ors.
Ionospheric-thermospheric state estimation with neutral wind data assimilation

Assimilation of radio sounding measurements — Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) data, ionosondes, beacon satellites, and more — of the ionosphere has been ongoing for over a decade, and has enabled ionospheric plasma mapping at global scales and at unprecedented resolution. Data assimilative technology has allowed us to sense and map the redistribution of plasma in response to stormtime forcing, in the form of storm-enhanced densities (SED), plumes of plasma feeding into the plasmasphere, bubbles, depletions and troughs. However, the drivers behind these formations have had to be measured in situ or indirectly, and with greater sparsity than measurements such as total electron content (TEC) from GNSS.
Path sensitization in critical path problem (logic circuit design)

An important aspect of the critical path problem is deciding whether a path is sensitizable. Three new path sensitization criteria are proposed in a general framework. Other path sensitization criteria can be presented in the same framework, enabling them to be compared with each other. An approximate criterion is also proposed and used to develop an efficient critical path algorithm for combinational circuits. >
Precipitation of ordered phases in metallic solid solutions: A synergistic clustering and ordering process

The precipitation mechanism of ordered phases in metallic solid solutions has been a long-standing controversy due to the competing roles of chemical clustering (or phase separation) and chemical ordering. In the present study, this controversy has been resolved through the coupled use of aberration-corrected high-resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy and atom probe tomography. The experimental results, obtained at atomic resolution, can only be interpreted satisfactorily on the basis of phase separation via spinodal decomposition followed by chemical ordering.
On fault induced nonlinear rotary response and instability

Results of applying instantaneous frequency to the interpretation and characterization of bifurcation and evolution of instability are presented for a comprehensive rotor-journal bearing model incorporating translational and rotational inertia, bending stiffness, gyroscopic moments, shear deformation and disk imbalance. By designating rotor speed and the relative flexibility embodying the extent of surface crack development as the two controlled parameters, rich and complex nonlinear behaviors are observed as the model subjected to the combined exertion of slow crack breathing and bearing film pressure. Among them are that sub-harmonics attributable to the oil-film force are seen disappeared with crack opening and that the model system fails from one of the three possible scenarios: super-harmonic bifurcation, prolonged chaotic response, and large vibration amplitudes accompanied by no bifurcation. As a result of the investigation, a dynamic failure curve differentiating zones of stability and bifurcated instability from zones of dynamic failure is constructed and proposed as an alternative to the traditional stability chart.
Hard-sphere Bose gas in random external potentials.

We consider a dilute hard-sphere Bose gas in random external potentials at low temperatures, in {ital D}=3, using the technique of pseudopotentials and the Bogoliubov transformation. At absolute zero, the random potentials can deplete the Bose condensate, though not completely. On the other hand, they generate an amount of normal fluid equal to 4/3 the condensate depletion. This is a localization effect that can destroy superfluidity at absolute zero. General features of the superfluid density in the neighborhood of this transition point agree qualitatively with experimental results on helium in porous media.
Dispersion, temperature and torque models for an internal mixer

Models based on kinetic, thermodynamic and rheological equations have been developed to compute dispersion extent, batch temperature and relative batch viscosity at discrete intervals during a mix cycle in an internal mixer. The calculated relative bulk viscosity can be linked empirically to a measured variable such as rotor torque or power consumption. Solution of the models over successive time intervals allows the computation of complete dispersion, temperature, and torque/power profiles for a mix cycle. The mix models exhibit good fits to experimental torque and temperature curves for mixing natural rubber with carbon black over a wide range of carbon black loadings (0 to 50 phr) for rotor speeds ranging from 40 to 70 RPM in two lab-scale internal mixers. The models are shown to be suitable for moderately reinforcing (ASTM N660) as well as highly reinforcing (ASTM N121) grades of carbon black. Rate constants for filler dispersion, incorporation and erosion can be extracted from the models and can be interpolated to generate dispersion, temperature and torque curves at new conditions of carbon black loading and rotor speed. The mix models could thus be used for process-control purposes and for specifying drop targets based on batch properties in addition to the time-temperature-energy criteria typically used today. Polym. Eng. Sci. 44:1247–1257, 2004. © 2004 Society of Plastics Engineers.
State and parameter estimation in nonlinear systems as an optimal tracking problem

In verifying and validating models of nonlinear processes it is important to incorporate information from observations in an efficient manner. Using the idea of synchronization of nonlinear dynamical systems, we present a framework for connecting a data signal with a model in a way that minimizes the required coupling yet allows the estimation of unknown parameters in the model. The need to evaluate unknown parameters in models of nonlinear physical, biophysical, and engineering systems occurs throughout the development of phenomenological or reduced models of dynamics. Our approach builds on existing work that uses synchronization as a tool for parameter estimation. We address some of the critical issues in that work and provide a practical framework for finding an accurate solution. In particular, we show the equivalence of this problem to that of tracking within an optimal control framework. This equivalence allows the application of powerful numerical methods that provide robust practical tools for model development and validation.
“I Will Take a Shot for Every ‘Like’ I Get on This Status”: Posting Alcohol-Related Facebook Content Is Linked to Drinking Outcomes

Objective:This study investigated whether self-reports of alcohol-related postings on Facebook by oneself or one’s Facebook friends were related to common motives for drinking and were uniquely predictive of self-reported alcohol outcomes (alcohol consumption, problems, and cravings).Method:Pacific Northwest undergraduates completed a survey of alcohol outcomes, drinking motives, and alcoholrelated Facebook postings. Participants completed the survey online as part of a larger study on alcohol use and cognitive associations. Participants were randomly selected through the university registrar’s office and consisted of 1,106 undergraduates (449 men, 654 women, 2 transgender, 1 declined to answer) between the ages of 18 and 25 years (M = 20.40, SD = 1.60) at a large university in the Pacific Northwest. Seven participants were excluded from analyses because of missing or suspect data.Results:Alcohol-related postings on Facebook were significantly correlated with social, enhancement, conformity, and coping mo...
An evaluation of the role of ascorbic acid in the regulation of tyrosine metabolism.

Abstract 1.1. Accumulation and excretion of p-hydroxyphenylpyruvic acid (pHPP) by ascorbic acid-deficient guinea pigs given tyrosine are attributed to enzymatic imbalance represented by adaptive increase of tyrosine-α-ketoglutarate transaminase (pHPP-forming) activity and marked decrease in p-hydroxyphenylpyruvic acid oxidase (pHPP removing) activity of the liver. 2.2. Inactive pHPP-oxidase, similar to that of tyrosine-fed guinea pig, was prepared in vitro from the active enzyme by dialysis and storage at 4 °C, by ammonium sulfate fractionation and also by treatment with oxidizing agents. Such inactive enzymes were reactivated by various reducing agents. 3.3. pHPP-oxidase is strongly inhibited by a number of metal-complexing agents. Treatment of active pHPP-oxidase with 1, 10-phenanthroline and subsequent dialysis of the enzyme resulted in inactive preparation which was not appreciably activated by GSH, by ascorbic acid or by GSH + DCPP, but was specifically reactivated by Fe ++ in the presence of a reducing agent such as GSH or ascorbic acid.
The anterior buccal gland of the rat: a mucous salivary gland which develops as a branch of Stensen's duct.

Examination of serial histologic sections of the head and neck regions of rats at selected age intervals from 14 days in utero to 100 days postnatally revealed that at 16 days in utero, a second salivary gland arises from the rudimentary parotid (Stensen's) duct. This gland develops more rapidly than the parotid gland; its acini are essentially mature prior to weaning, preceding parotid acini in this respect by several days. All cells of the secretory units of the mature gland stain positively with both alcian blue and periodic acid-Schiff, indicating that the gland is of pure mucous type. The body of the gland occupies a space lateral and mostly superior to the maxillary buccal sulcus, nestled beneath the anterior bulge of the masseter muscle, near the point where the buccal and mandibular marginal branches of the facial nerve cross paths. It is the only salivary gland in the buccal wall anterior to the third molar; hence, the proposed name of anterior buccal gland. These observations suggest: (1) Samples of rat parotid saliva collected proximally and distally to the junction of the ducts of the parotid and anterior buccal glands are likely to differ significantly in the quality and quantity of mucosubstances which they contain. (2) The divergent differentiation of two branches of the same glandular primordium in this instance implies differences in the inductive qualities of their respective mesenchymal beds.
The Use of Computer-assisted Feedback in a Motor Control Task for Cerebral Palsied Children

Summary This study investigated the use of computer-assisted feedback in a motor control task for cerebral palsied children. Subjects were asked to push down with both arms on to a switchbox which activated the computer feedback. The feedback consisted of a visual target display, auditory tones and a cassette player that was activated when subjects held the visual display on target. Six children followed a withdrawal ABA single case experimental design. In the baseline A phase only the therapist received accurate information and gave verbal feedback to subjects. During the intervention B phase, in addition to this, subjects also received computer feedback. Computer-assisted feedback was found to improve performance significantly in all six subjects (one-way analysis of variance test, p
Lined Circular Tunnels in Elastic Transversely Anisotropic Rock at Depth

Closed-form solutions for displacements and stresses of both the liner and the rock are presented for a deep circular tunnel excavated in transversely anisotropic rock above or below the water table subjected to static or seismic loading. The solutions are obtained with the assumption of elastic response of rock and liner, tied contact between rock and liner, impermeable liner, plane strain conditions along the tunnel axis and simultaneous excavation, and liner installation. The liner of a tunnel placed below the water table must support, in addition to the rock stresses, the full water pressure, while a tunnel located above the water table must support only the rock pressures. The solutions presented for static loading show, however, that displacements and stresses of the liner and rock are the same when the tunnel is placed above or below the water table as long as the total far-field stresses are the same. With rapid loading, e.g. seismic loading, excess pore pressures may be generated in saturated rock, which induce a different response than that of a tunnel excavated in dry rock. The analyses indicate that stresses and displacements are more uniform when excess pore pressures are produced, which seems to indicate that pore pressure generation tends to reduce non-uniform response in anisotropic rock.
The Starting Early Starting Smart Integrated Services Model: Improving Access to Behavioral Health Services in the Pediatric Health Care Setting for At-Risk Families with Young Children

We evaluated the Starting Early Starting Smart (SESS) national initiative to integrate behavioral health services (parenting, mental health, and drug treatment) into the pediatric health care setting for families with young children. Data are presented from five pediatric care (PC) sites, drawing from families at risk due to demographic and behavioral health factors, with infants less than 12 months of age (n = 612). Families were randomly assigned to either the SESS program or a standard care Comparison group. We utilized longitudinal analyses to estimate differences in utilization rates for parenting, mental health, and drug treatment over 6 follow-up time points (3, 6, 9, 12, 15 and 18 months). Our findings indicate that SESS caregiver participants were 4.6 times (p < 0.001; CI = 3.33–6.26) more likely to receive parenting services, 2.1 times (p < 0.001; CI = 1.48–2.86) more likely to receive outpatient mental health treatment, and 1.8 times (p = 0.025; CI = 1.08–3.14) more likely to receive drug treatment than Comparison group participants. Our results demonstrate the success of the SESS program in coordinating and improving access to behavioral health services for high-risk caregivers within the pediatric health care setting and highlight the importance of continuing to focus public health policy on the behavioral health care needs of families with young children.
Hybrid simulation and optimization-based design and operation of integrated photovoltaic generation, storage units, and grid

Abstract Unlike fossil-fueled generation, solar energy resources are geographically distributed and highly intermittent, which makes their direct control extremely difficult and requires storage units as an additional concern. The goal of this research is to design and develop a flexible tool, which will allow us to obtain (1) an optimal capacity of an integrated photovoltaic (PV) system and storage units and (2) an optimal operational decision policy considering the current and future market prices of the electricity. The proposed tool is based on hybrid (system dynamics model and agent-based model) simulation and meta-heuristic optimization. In particular, this tool has been developed for three different scenarios (involving different geographical scales), where PV-based solar generators, storage units (compressed-air-energy-storage (CAES) and super-capacitors), and grid are used in an integrated manner to supply energy demands. Required data has been gathered from various sources, including NASA and TEP (utility company), US Energy Information Administration, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, commercial PV panel manufacturers, and publicly available reports. The constructed tool has been demonstrated to (1) test impacts of several factors (e.g. demand growth, efficiencies in PV panel and CAES system) on the total cost of the integrated generation and storage system and an optimal mixture of PV generation and storage capacity, and to (2) demonstrate an optimal operational policy.
Analysis of the morbidity, mortality, and cost of colostomy closure in traumatic compared with nontraumatic colorectal diseases

One hundred sixteen patients with acute colorectal diseases, operated upon emergently and needing an intestinal stoma, were reviewed to determine the cost and morbidity of treatment of patients with colorectal trauma compared to other surgical illnesses. The first group (57 patients) perforating colonic or rectal trauma, the second (30 patients) perforated colonic disease, the third (24 patients) nonperforated colonic disease, and the fourth (five patients) a colonic injury, unrecognized initially but requiring subsequent treatment with a stoma. For the initial operation, hospital stay, complications, mortality, and costs were less for patients in group 1 (colonic injury) than in groups 2 and 3 (inflammatory or neoplastic diseases). Colostomy closure, whatever the antecedent disease or injury, required an average ten-day hospitalization, had no mortality, a complication rate of 0 to 6 percent, and an average hospital cost of $6,500. The hospital stay and costs for the total treatment were slightly higher for nontraumatic illnesses, although the rate of colostomy closure was significantly less (68 and 77 percent versus 86 percent, P = .05).
Preparing the Next Generation of Front‐Line Nursing Leaders: The Development of an Evidence‐Based Charge Nurse Curriculum

Paper Presentation Purpose for the Program In January 2011, the Maternal–Child Health Division of Nursing at our hospital began preparations to move to a larger, more state‐of‐the‐art facility. Assessment of nursing knowledge and nursing satisfaction was part of this preparation. It became clear from the results of a self‐assessment of skills questionnaire that the nurses who were serving in the permanent charge role felt unsupported and unprepared to take on the added responsibilities that the move to the new hospital would demand. Knowing that prior methods of charge nurse education were not sufficient to meet the knowledge and competency expectations of the charge nurses, a search was performed to find evidence‐based practices that supported leadership development. Proposed Change The charge nurses determined the learning method and setting. A year‐long charge nurse workshop was developed and classes were presented on a monthly basis. All charge nurses were expected to complete all components of the new charge nurse curriculum and were given tools to facilitate the process. Implementation, Outcomes, and Evaluation The development of the topics for the curriculum came from the evidence that supports the core responsibilities for the charge nurse role. The 24 charge nurses were divided into four groups: (a) clinical/technical skills; (b) critical thinking skills; (c) organizational skills; and (d) human relations skills. Each group developed an extensive list of component skills for their assigned category and shared their information at a summary phase during the initial meeting, which allowed for additions to the list and prioritization of the topics. This information was used to develop a charge nurse core competency checklist. The leadership team took the information provided by the charge nurses and developed the monthly educational programs, which were collaboratively presented by the experts of each topic, and built a resource guide for ongoing reference. In January 2012, after the program was completed, the charge nurses were asked to complete the self‐assessment of skills questionnaire a second time. A significant improvement was reported in all categories. Implications for Nursing Practice The successful implementation of this process has provided our institution with the basis for charge nurse education for all nursing divisions. Our nursing satisfaction results have improved among charge nurses. The results indicate that the nurses feel prepared to complete assigned duties, feel supported by nursing leadership, and have a sense of accomplishment regarding the last shift worked. This process can easily be implemented in any healthcare institution as a method of continuing education for the development of nursing leaders.
Role of DNA Polymerase II in Repair Replication in Escherichia coli

Escherichia coli maintains at least three distinct enzymes capable of synthesizing DNA. Strains deficient in DNA polymerase I activity in vitro1 show increased sensitivity to ultraviolet radiation, suggesting that DNA polymerase I is involved in the repair of damaged DNA2,3. DNA polymerase III appears to be essential for normal DNA replication because semiconservative synthesis stops very quickly when strains (dnaE mutants) temperature sensitive for DNA polymerase III are raised to the restrictive temperature4. Two mutants deficient in DNA polymerase II have been isolated5,6; but as no physiological deficiency has been demonstrated in these strains, the role of DNA polymerase II has remained obscure. We report here experiments which show that the ultraviolet-stimulated nonconservative DNA synthesis observed in toluenized strains deficient in DNA polymerases I and III is absent in mutants additionally deficient in DNA polymerase II.
Somatic Mutagenesis with a Sleeping Beauty Transposon System Leads to Solid Tumor Formation in Zebrafish

Large-scale sequencing of human cancer genomes and mouse transposon-induced tumors has identified a vast number of genes mutated in different cancers. One of the outstanding challenges in this field is to determine which genes, when mutated, contribute to cellular transformation and tumor progression. To identify new and conserved genes that drive tumorigenesis we have developed a novel cancer model in a distantly related vertebrate species, the zebrafish, Danio rerio. The Sleeping Beauty (SB) T2/Onc transposon system was adapted for somatic mutagenesis in zebrafish. The carp s-actin promoter was cloned into T2/Onc to create T2/OncZ. Two transgenic zebrafish lines that contain large concatemers of T2/OncZ were isolated by injection of linear DNA into the zebrafish embryo. The T2/OncZ transposons were mobilized throughout the zebrafish genome from the transgene array by injecting SB11 transposase RNA at the 1-cell stage. Alternatively, the T2/OncZ zebrafish were crossed to a transgenic line that constitutively expresses SB11 transposase. T2/OncZ transposon integration sites were cloned by ligation-mediated PCR and sequenced on a Genome Analyzer II. Between 700–6800 unique integration events in individual fish were mapped to the zebrafish genome. The data show that introduction of transposase by transgene expression or RNA injection results in an even distribution of transposon re-integration events across the zebrafish genome. SB11 mRNA injection resulted in neoplasms in 10% of adult fish at ∼10 months of age. T2/OncZ-induced zebrafish tumors contain many mutated genes in common with human and mouse cancer genes. These analyses validate our mutagenesis approach and provide additional support for the involvement of these genes in human cancers. The zebrafish T2/OncZ cancer model will be useful for identifying novel and conserved genetic drivers of human cancers.
Electrostatic study of the proton pumping mechanism in bovine heart cytochrome C oxidase.

Cytochrome c oxidase (CcO) is the terminal enzyme of the cell respiratory chain in mitochondria and aerobic bacteria. It catalyzes the reduction of oxygen to water and utilizes the free energy of the reduction reaction for proton pumping across the inner-mitochondrial membrane, a process that results in a membrane electrochemical proton gradient. Although the structure of the enzyme has been solved for several organisms, the molecular mechanism of proton pumping remains unknown. In the present paper, continuum electrostatic calculations were employed to evaluate the electrostatic potential, energies, and protonation state of bovine heart cytochrome c oxidase for different redox states of the enzyme along its catalytic cycle. Three different computational models of the enzyme were employed to test the stability of the results. The energetics and pH dependence of the P→F, F→O, and O→E steps of the cycle have been investigated. On the basis of electrostatic calculations, two possible schemes of redox-linked ...
Java class visualization for teaching object-oriented concepts

Visualization is a useful tool in many areas of computer science education. This paper describes the use of visualization in the introduction of object-oriented concepts. A Java application has been developed that allows the user to interact with a visualization of any Java class through the instantiation of objects, the movement of those objects around the class environment, and the activation of class methods. The user may also move conveniently between classes in this visualization.This Object Visualizer is useful for classroom demonstration, individual student use in the laboratory, and class debugging and testing.
Applications of the Fourier transform to probability theory and stochastic processes

Some applications are explored of the Fourier transform in the study of probability theory and stochastic processes. The methods presented are based on some of the lectures given by Professor Mark Kac at USC during 1983‐84. Although these methods are now widely used, the particular applications we have chosen illustrate the power and simplicity of using the Fourier transform in probability theory, and should be of interest both to the specialist and to those with only a casual interest in probability theory.
Atlas of the developing inner ear in zebrafish

This report provides a description of the normal developing inner ear of the zebrafish, Danio rerio, with special focus on the pars inferior. Zebrafish specimens, ranging in age from 3 to 30 days postfertilization (dpf), were processed for standard histologic sections or with a paint-fill method to show three-dimensional morphogenesis of the membranous labyrinth. Adult zebrafish (age 2 years) were also processed for inner ear paint-fills. Although development of the semicircular canals occurs rapidly (by 3 dpf), the pars inferior develops more gradually during days 5-20 postfertilization. A rudimentary endolymphatic duct emerges by 8 dpf. Differentiated hair cells of the lagenar macula are evident by 15 dpf, in a chamber located lateral and posterior to the saccule. By 20 dpf, the saccule itself is separated from the utricle, but remains connected by means of the utriculosaccular foramen. The maculae neglectae, each with differentiated hair cells, lie on the floor of the utricle near this foramen. A medial connection between the sacculi of right and left ears, the transverse canal, is also complete by 20 dpf. A ridge of mesenchyme, previously undescribed, bisects the saccule in zebrafish fry at 20-30 dpf. The images in the paint-fill atlas should provide a baseline for future studies of mutant zebrafish ears.
Dissection of the Karyopherin α Nuclear Localization Signal (NLS)-binding Groove FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR NLS BINDING

Classical protein import, mediated by the binding of a classical nuclear localization signal (NLS) to the NLS receptor, karyopherin/importin alpha, is the most well studied nuclear transport process. Classical NLSs are either monopartite sequences that contain a single cluster of basic amino acids (Lys/Arg) or bipartite sequences that contain two clusters of basic residues separated by an unconserved linker region. We have created mutations in conserved residues in each of the three NLS-binding sites/regions in Saccharomyces cerevisiae karyopherin alpha (SRP1). For each mutant we have analyzed binding to both a monopartite and a bipartite NLS cargo in vitro. We have also expressed each karyopherin alpha mutant in vivo as the only cellular copy of the NLS receptor and examined the impact on cell growth and import of both monopartite and bipartite NLS-containing cargoes. Our results reveal the functional significance of specific residues within karyopherin alpha for NLS cargo binding. A karyopherin alpha variant with a mutation in the major NLS-binding site exhibits decreased binding to both monopartite and bipartite NLS cargoes, and this protein is not functional in vivo. However, we also find that a karyopherin alpha variant with a mutation in the minor NLS-binding site, which shows decreased binding only to bipartite NLS-containing cargoes, is also not functional in vivo. This suggests that the cell is dependent on the function of at least one bipartite NLS cargo that is imported into the nucleus by karyopherin alpha. Our experiments also reveal functional importance for the linker-binding region. This study provides insight into how changes in binding to cellular NLS sequences could impact cellular function. In addition, this work has led to the creation of conditional alleles of karyopherin alpha with well characterized defects in NLS binding that will be useful for identifying and characterizing novel NLS cargoes.
The lateral extracavitary approach to the spine using the three-quarter prone position.

✓ A three-quarter prone position for the lateral extracavitary operative approach to the thoracic and lumbar spine is described. This approach has been used in 40 patients with anterior spinal cord compressive lesions in the thoracic and/or lumbar region. In this patient population, it has allowed a safe ventral decompression of the spinal cord. It also allows placement of spinal instrumentation through the same incision. Both the operating surgeon and the assistant have an excellent view of the operative site, including the dural sac. Patient positioning and the operative approach are described and illustrated.
Plasma low density lipoprotein accumulation in aortas of hypercholesterolemic swine correlates with modifications in aortic glycosaminoglycan composition.

Abstract Arterial wall sulfated glycosaminoglycans (GAG) of matrix proteoglycans have been implicated in the retention of plasma low density lipoproteins in the early stages of atherosclerosis. We have studied modifications in porcine aortic GAG composition after 4 and 11 weeks of diet-induced hypercholesterolemia. After these time intervals no grossly visible atherosclerotic lesions were discerned. GAG changes were correlated with tissue LDL accumulation estimated by quantification of immunochemically-identifiable abllipoprotein B (apoB). Values of apoB ranged from
A potential vorticity theory for the formation of elongate channels in river deltas and lakes

[1] Rivers empty into oceans and lakes as turbulent sediment-laden jets, which can be characterized by a Gaussian horizontal velocity profile that spreads and decays downstream because of shearing and lateral mixing at the jet margins. Recent experiments demonstrate that this velocity field controls river-mouth sedimentation patterns. In nature, diffuse jets are associated with mouth bar deposition forming bifurcating distributary networks, while focused jets are associated with levee deposition and the growth of elongate channels that do not bifurcate. River outflows from elongate channels are similar in structure to cold filaments observed in ocean currents, where high potential vorticity helps to preserve coherent structure over large distances. Motivated by these observations, we propose a hydrodynamic theory that seeks to predict the conditions under which elongate channels form. Our approach models jet velocity patterns using the flow vorticity. Both shearing and lateral spreading are directly related to the vertical component of vorticity. We introduce a new kind of potential vorticity that incorporates sediment concentration and thus allows study of jet sedimentation patterns. The potential vorticity equation reduces the number of fluid momentum equations to one without losing generality. This results in a compact analytical solution capable of describing the streamwise evolution of the potential vorticity of a sediment-laden jet from initial conditions at the river mouth. Our theory predicts that high potential vorticity is a necessary condition for focused levee deposition and the creation of elongate channels. Comparison to numerical, laboratory, and field studies indicates that potential vorticity is a primary control on channel morphology. Our results may be useful for designing river delta restoration schemes such as the proposed Mississippi Delta diversion.
Exploring the persistence of sorted bedforms on the inner-shelf of Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina

Abstract Geological studies offshore of Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina reveal subtle large-scale regions of coarse sand with gravel and shell hash (widths between 100 and 200 m and negative relief of ∼1 m) that trend obliquely to the coast. It was previously suggested that these regions serve as conduits for sand exchange between the shoreface and inner shelf during storm-associated downwelling. Consequently they were classified as rippled scour depressions. More recently, the role of alongshore flows and self-organization as a result of inhibited settling of fine sand has been discussed. In this study, 45 days of near-bed current measurements were analyzed using benthic boundary layer and sediment transport models to examine the role of along- and cross-shore flows in driving sediment transport at this site. The wind climate was found to be a dominant influence on near-bed flows. Six distinct sediment transport events were recognized. During these events, sediment transport models show that bedload transport is directed mainly in the cross-shore direction, while suspended sediments are directed alongshore to the southwest. Current observations during these sediment transport events provide no evidence of cross-shore sediment transport caused by steady downwelling currents. Instead, benthic boundary layer model results are used to show that differences in bed roughness between the coarse areas of the seabed within the “rippled scour depressions” and the finer areas of the inner shelf are more pronounced during increasingly energetic wave and current conditions. The enhanced difference in roughness results in increased turbulence intensities over coarse regions inhibiting the deposition of the fine sand that is resuspended over the shelf during these events relative to finer areas over the shelf. Findings from this study contribute to explaining the observed long-term persistence of these features.
A cytological and cytophotometric study of alternative pathways of meiosis in the house centipede (Scutigera forceps, Rafinesque).

1. There are two types of spermatogenesis in every testis ofScutigera forceps, one of which follows orthodox lines while the other is unusual in several respects. 2. The unusual features of the latter comprise extraordinary spermatogonial generations, and omission of pairing in the first spermatocyte division. Nevertheless there is a reduction in the second division and all resulting spermatids carry a haploid set of chromosomes. 3. Cytophotometric analysis shows that the two different types of spermatogenesis are correlated with differences in the DNA and “histone” contents of the nuclei.
Total contact casts: Pressure reduction at ulcer sites and the effect on the contralateral foot

Abstract Objective: To compare the effectiveness of total contact casts with a cast boot (TCCB), total contact casts with a cast heel (TCCH), and therapeutic XtraDepth® shoes (XDS) to reduce ulcer site pressures and to determine if total contact casts increase contralateral pressures. Design: Repeat measure design with 40 replications nested within each treatment for each patient. Methods: Peak contralateral foot pressures and ulcer site pressures under the 1st metatarsal (1MET; n = 10), 2nd to 5th metatarsals (2-5MET; n = 10), and great toe (GT; n = 5) were compared using the Novel-Pedar system and three treatments: TCCB, TCCH, and XDS. Baseline pressures were established using canvas oxfords. Results: There was no difference in pressure reduction with TCCH vs. TCCB for 1MET or GT ulcers, but TCCH reduced pressure better for 2-5MET ulcers ( p Conclusions: TCCH were superior to TCCB in reducing 2-5MET ulcer pressures and equivalent to TCCB for 1MET and GT ulcers. Contralateral pressures are not increased by TCC use.
Spirituality In (and Out) of the Classroom: A Pragmatic Approach

This paper is divided into two sections. In the first section, I discuss “what is spirituality?” and in the section that follows, I examine some of the implications of my definition to the teaching of spirituality in an undergraduate business ethics course. For the purposes of this paper, spirituality is defined as the planned experience (the inner feeling) of blending integrity and integration through 1 – acceptance (of the past), 2 – commitment (to the future), 3 – reasonable choice, 4 – mindful action, and 5 –continuous dialog (both internal and external). This definition is a work-in-progress and offered mainly as a point of departure rather than a final destination.
Retirement and physical activity: analyses by occupation and wealth.

Background Older adults close to retirement age show the lowest level of physical activity. Changes in lifestyle with retirement may alter physical activity levels. This study investigated whether retirement changes physical activity and how the effect differs by occupation type and wealth level. Methods This longitudinal study used the Health and Retirement Study (1996–2002), U.S. population-based data. Analyses were conducted in 2007 and 2008. Physical activity was measured by a composite indicator of participation in either work-related or leisure-time physical activity. Fixed-effects regression models were used to account for confounders and unobserved heterogeneity. The dependent variable was a composite indicator of participation in regular physical activity either at work or during nonworking hours. Results Physical activity decreased with retirement from a physically demanding job but increased with retirement from a sedentary job. Occupation type interacted with wealth level, with the negative impact on physical activity of retirement exacerbated by lack of wealth and the positive effect of retirement on physical activity enhanced by wealth. Conclusions Substantial differences in the effect of retirement on physical activity occurred across subgroups. As the number of people approaching retirement age rapidly increases, findings suggest that a growing segment of the nation's population may not sustain an adequate level of physical activity.
Columbia Newsblaster: multilingual news summarization on the web

We present the new multilingual version of the Columbia Newsblaster news summarization system. The system addresses the problem of user access to browsing news from multiple languages from multiple sites on the internet. The system automatically collects, organizes, and summarizes news in multiple source languages, allowing the user to browse news topics with English summaries, and compare perspectives from different countries on the topics.
Economic load allocation

Abstract The presented algorithm provides solution of the economic load allocation (ELA) problem, minimizing total steam production costs, as well as dynamic allocation. The total fuel feed trajectory demand is provided by a predictive master pressure controller which controls pressure in a common steam header. Application of a model-based predictive controller as the master pressure controller provides additional features to the allocation algorithm: fuel flow at the end of the prediction horizon is used as an estimate of the steady state value for evaluation of the economic allocation, while the transient part can be allocated independently.
Interstitial lung disease (ILD) and severe ITP.

Abstract Introduction: Platelets play an important role in inflammatory and immune responses. We report interstitial lung disease (ILD) developing during the acute phase of severe thrombocytopenia in 3 patients with severe refractory ITP. Methods and Results: We identified 3 cases with severe ITP who developed ILD in the course of refractory chronic ITP. The thrombocytopenia was severe in all cases. ILD was an incidental finding at the presentation and often misdiagnosed as lung infections. ILD was documented by lung biopsy in cases 1 and 2, supplemented by serial chest X-rays and/or CAT scan. As the ITP improved, ILD regressed in case 1, persisted in case 2, and progressed to advanced pulmonary fibrosis in case 3. Conclusion: We report an association of ILD with severe refractory ITP. ILD was detected in acute phase of platelet destruction, suggesting that platelet destruction may have triggered inflammation in the lung, leading to ILD.
The role of morphophonological regularity in young Spanish-speaking children's production of gendered noun phrases.

Adult Spanish speakers generally know which form a determiner preceding a noun should have even if the noun is not in their lexicon, because Spanish demonstrates high predictability between determiner form and noun form ( la noun -a and el noun -o ). We asked whether young children learning Spanish are similarly sensitive to the correlation of determiner and noun forms, or whether they initially learn determiner–noun pairings one-by-one. Spanish–English bilingual children and adults repeated Spanish words and non-words preceded by gender congruous and incongruous determiners. If children learn determiner–noun pairings one-by-one, they should show a gender congruity effect only for words. In contrast with this prediction, both children and adults demonstrated congruity effects for words and non-words, indicating sensitivity to correlated morphophonological forms. Furthermore, both age groups showed more facility in producing phrases with nouns ending in -a , which are more frequent and predictable from the preceding determiner.
Shift in core level binding energy in double-layer species on potentiostatically emersed electrodes

The initiation of this preliminary study reflected an interest in determining the chemical and compositional properties of the electrochemical double layer in its ex situ state using surface analytical techniques. Specifically, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy was used to investigate the surfaces of electrodes that had been removed from aqueous electrolyte. Two parameters were monitored: the core level binding energy and the surface concentration of emersed species. Photoelectron spectra, taken from gold film electrodes emersed at various potentials from aqueous cesium sulfate electrolyte, revealed a shift in cesium core level binding energy with electrochemically imposed potential. The shift arises as a consequence of the presence of the double layer (ions and dipoles) at the surface which is stable to removal from the electrochemical environment, transfer and ultrahigh vacuum conditions. The electrochemical potential applied before emersion of the electrodes caused a systematic shift in the Cs3d52 binding energy over a range of about 0.8 V commensurate with the imposed change in emersion potential; this shift may be called an “electrochemically induced binding energy shift”. No systematic shift was observed in the substrate spectra over the potential range studied. Splitting of the 3d5232 photopeaks (of about 1.5 eV) was observed when electrodes were cycled electrochemically to 1.8 V and emersed at potentials lower than 0.5 V. A potential-induced shift was observed for the lower binding energy component peak. The binding energy of the other photopeak remained unchanged over the potential range. Data and results are discussed within the framework of physical and chemical aspects of the electrolyte-electrode interface.
The gilmore attachment.

Abstract The Gilmore attachment technique consists of splinting relatively mobile remaining teeth for the retention and stabilization of removable partial dentures. The ultimate value of a dental prosthesis is as an aid in maintaining the physiologic and emotional status of patients. The physiologic advantages of the Gilmore appliance are: (1) It provides tooth and tissue support with minimal stress transmission to the abutment teeth. (2) It has single lever rotation on abutment teeth. (3) The fulcrum is close to the alveolar crest with a favorable crown to root length ratio. (4) It permits fixed splinting with provision for excellent gingival hygiene. (5) The cross-arch linear splinting stabilizes periodontally involved abutment teeth. (6) It can be made to provide cross-arch supporting plane anchorage and optimum splinting. (7) It can be used in either dental arch or on teeth with vital or nonvital pulps. The esthetic and emotional advantages are: (1) It provides invisible retention and stabilizing attachments. (2) It permits the natural arrangement of teeth. (3) The retentive devices are completely removed from tactile or food-collecting problems. (4) It permits the flange contours to restore the labial form of the lost alveolar bone. (5) It allows retention of abutment teeth that are questionable in lieu of resorting to complete dentures.