cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Local, deformable precomputed radiance transfer

Precomputed radiance transfer (PRT) captures realistic lighting effects from distant, low-frequency environmental lighting but has been limited to static models or precomputed sequences. We focus on PRT for local effects such as bumps, wrinkles, or other detailed features, but extend it to arbitrarily deformable models. Our approach applies zonal harmonics (ZH) which approximate spherical functions as sums of circularly symmetric Legendre polynomials around different axes. By spatially varying both the axes and coefficients of these basis functions, we can fit to spatially varying transfer signals. Compared to the spherical harmonic (SH) basis, the ZH basis yields a more compact approximation. More important, it can be trivially rotated whereas SH rotation is expensive and unsuited for dense per-vertex or per-pixel evaluation. This property allows, for the first time, PRT to be mapped onto deforming models which re-orient the local coordinate frame. We generate ZH transfer models by fitting to PRT signals simulated on meshes or simple parametric models for thin membranes and wrinkles. We show how shading with ZH transfer can be significantly accelerated by specializing to a given lighting environment. Finally, we demonstrate real-time rendering results with soft shadows, inter-reflections, and subsurface scatter on deforming models.
Open burning of agricultural biomass: Physical and chemical properties of particle-phase emissions

Abstract We present the physical and chemical characterization of particulate matter (PM 2.5 ) emissions from simulated agricultural fires (AFs) of surface residuals of two major grain crops, rice ( Oryza sativa ) and wheat ( Triticum aestivum L.). The O 2 levels and CO/CO 2 ratios of the open burn simulations are typical of the field fires of agricultural residues. In the AF plumes, we observe predominantly accumulation mode (100–1000 nm) aerosols. The mean PM 2.5 mass emission factors from replicate burns of the wheat and rice residuals are 4.7±0.04 and 13.0±0.3 g kg −1 of dry biomass, respectively. The combustion-derived PM emissions from wheat are enriched in K (31% weight/weight, w/w) and Cl (36% w/w), whereas the PM emissions from rice are largely carbonaceous (84% w/w). Molecular level gas chromatography/mass spectrometry analysis of PM 2.5 solvent extracts identifies organic matter that accounts for as much as 18% of the PM mass emissions. A scarcity of detailed PM-phase chemical emissions data from AFs required that comparisons among other biomass combustion groups (wildfire, woodstove, and fireplace) be made. Statistical tests for equal variance among these groups indicate that the degree to which molecular emissions vary is compound dependent. Analysis of variance testing shows significant differences in the mean values of certain n -alkane, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH), oxy -PAH, and sugar marker compounds common to the biomass combustion types. Individual pairwise comparisons of means at the combustion group level confirm this result but suggest that apportioning airborne PM to these sources may require a more comprehensive use of the chemical emissions fingerprints. Hierarchical clustering of source test observations using molecular markers indicates agricultural fuels as distinct from other types of biomass combustion or biomass species. Rough approximations of the total potential PM 2.5 emissions outputs from the combustion of the wheat and rice surface residues are given. This agricultural activity could significantly contribute to emissions inventories at regional, national, and global geographic levels.
Canonical structure of theO(3) nonlinear sigma model with a topological term

We canonically quantize theO(3) nonlinear sigma model in 1+1 spacetime with a topological term. TheO(3) current algebra is obtained and found to have an abelian extension similar to the 2+1 dimensional model with a Hopf term. The current algebra is independent of the parameter μ, which is the coefficient of the topological term. At μ=π we show the equivalence of this algebra withk→∞ limit of the algebra ofSU(2)⊗SU(2) invariant WZW model. Following the prescription of nonlinear quantum mechanics, we resolve the operator ordering ambiguities and obtain the quantum Hamiltonian.
Three-dimensional triple-resonance NMR of 13C/15N-enriched proteins using constant-time evolution

Recently it has been convincingly demonstrated that 3D triple-resonance NMR provides a practical alternative for obtaining sequential resonance assignments in larger proteins ( I, 2). This approach requires a set of five or six 3D NMR experiments that correlate the various protein backbone nuclei. Details regarding the mechanisms and technical implementations of these experiments have been described previously (35). Two of the experiments used in this approach correlate backbone Ha and Ca resonances with either the intraresidue carbonyl resonance (CO) or the 15N resonance of the succeeding residue and are referred to as HCACO and HCA ( CO) N, respectively. The present Communication describes a modification of these experiments which optimizes their sensitivity and removes the F, antiphase character of correlations. The pulse schemes of the original HCACO and HCA (CO)N experiments are very similar to the new versions that are shown in Fig. 1. The original schemes differ from the new schemes only by having a variable length evolution period of duration t, between the first pair of simultaneously applied 90” (‘H/ 13Ca) pulses and the second pair of 90” pulses, applied to “Ccu and 13C0, instead of the fixed-time duration, 2T. In both original schemes a 180” ‘H pulse is applied at the midpoint oft, to remove Ha-Ca J coupling (3). Before discussing the improved performance of the new schemes we briefly outline the basic principle of the original sequences. In both original experiments, Ha magnetization is transferred to Ca using an INEPT scheme. At the end of the t, period, Ca magnetization is transferred to the CO nucleus. In the HCACO experiment this CO magnetization evolves in the transverse plane during the second evolution period, t2, prior to being transferred back to Ca! and Ha for detection. In the HCA(CO)N experiment, Ca magnetization is also transferred to the CO nucleus, but it is subsequently relayed to “N in an HMQC manner, prior to transferring this magnetization back via CO to Ca and Ha for detection. Full details and an operator formalism description of the magnetization transfers involved have been given previously (3). To clarify the modification described in the present Communication, the pertinent product-operator formalism terms describing the magnetization transfers are briefly repeated for the HCACO experiment, with irrelevant constants omitted. Spin operators for Ha, Ca, and CO are denoted by I, A, and S, respectively. At the start of the tl evolution period, Ca magnetization is antiphase with respect to its attached Ha proton and in-phase with respect to the directly attached Cp and
Dementia with Lewy bodies

Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) is a synucleinopathy that is clinically distinct from Alzheimer's disease, associated with cognitive decline, fluctuations in alertness and cognition, visual hallucinations, and parkinsonism. Other clinical symptoms that can occur with DLB include dysautonomia and sleep disorders such as rapid-eye-movement sleep behavior disorder (RBD). The pathological criteria of DLB are associated with the location of Lewy body pathology and the extent of Alzheimer's pathology seen. Treatment is symptomatic. The genetic basis of DLB is being explored, and future studies will investigate ways to identify those most at risk for DLB prior to the onset of cognitive symptoms.
Beneficial effect of immobilization of joints in rheumatoid and related arthritides: a splint study using sequential analysis.

The more actively involved upper extremity of a patient or one of equally involved upper extremities was immobilized for three weeks with a plaster of paris splint and an arm sling. In seven consecutive patients the immobilized side showed unquestionably the least amount of active joint involvement by the end of the three week period. There were no lasting undesirable side effects such as decrease of joint range of motion or loss of muscle strength of stage I, stage II, and early stage III joints.
Middlemarch and “that Sort of Thing”

Mr. Brooke fails to become an elected political representative, but he nevertheless functions as a representative of Middlemarch society’s dominant mode of abstraction. Brooke’s comic idiom of “that sort of thing,” “that kind of thing,” and other variations of the word “thing” may be taken as a paradigm for George Eliot’s style throughout Middlemarch. Brooke parodies how characters and the narrator employ a grammar of things to articulate their relationships both to what they value in the material world and to their own interiority. I ascribe this grammar of things to what I call an “epistemology of character” because Eliot uses the same grammar of things to generate complex subjectivity within fully developed characters like Dorothea and Ladislaw as she does to describe scientific, conventional, religious, commercial, and physical realities.
Constitutive behavior and stability of frictional sliding of granite

An understanding of the frictional sliding on faults that can lead to earthquakes requires a knowledge of both constitutive behavior of the sliding surfaces and its mechanical interaction with the loading system. We have determined the constitutive parameters for frictional sliding of initially bare surfaces of Westerly granite, using a recently developed high pressure rotary shear apparatus that allows long distances of sliding and therefore a greater assurance of attaining steady state behavior. From experiments conducted at room temperature and normal stresses of 27–84 MPa several important results have been found. (1) A gouge layer 100 to 200 μm thick was developed from the initially bare rock surfaces after 18 to 70 mm of sliding. (2) The steady state frictional resistance, attained after about 10 mm of sliding, is proportional to the negative of the logarithm of the sliding velocity. (3) Abrupt changes in the velocity of sliding result in initial changes in the frictional resistance, which have the same sign as the velocity change, and are followed by a gradual decay to a new steady state value over a characteristic distance of sliding. This velocity weakening behavior is essentially identical with that found by several previous workers on the same material at lower normal stress. (4) Our results are well described by a two state variable constitutive law. The values of the constitutive parameters are quite similar to those found previously at low normal stress, but the characteristic distance is about an order of magnitude smaller than that found at 10 MPa normal stress with thicker layers of coarser gouge. (5) We have approximated our results with a one state variable constitutive law and compared the results with the predictions of existing nonlinear stability analysis; in addition, we have extended the stability analysis to systems possessing two state variables. With such formulations good agreement is found between the experimentally observed and theoretically predicted transitions between stable and unstable sliding. These results allow a better understanding of the instabilities that lead to earthquakes.
A Primer on Consultation Theory: Building a Flexible Worldview

The purpose of this article is to provide potential consultants with a broad introduction to the learning, gestalt, systems, organizational, psychoanalytic, and chaos theories of consultation. The goal of this article is to demonstrate how the consultant can map each of these theories onto the consultation environment to produce a unique perspective that each theory alone cannot provide. Each theory is described as to how it views and frames the consultation problem and how interventions are then based on these frames. Additionally, each theory is examined as to its view of process difficulties and when termination is deemed appropriate.
Regulation of the sphingosine-recycling pathway for ceramide generation by oxidative stress, and its role in controlling c-Myc/Max function

In the present study, the regulation of the sphingosine-recycling pathway in A549 human lung adenocarcinoma cells by oxidative stress was investigated. The generation of endogenous long-chain ceramide in response to exogenous C6-cer (C6-ceramide), which is FB1 (fumonisin B1)-sensitive, was employed to probe the sphingosine-recycling pathway. The data showed that ceramide formation via this pathway was significantly blocked by GSH and NAC (N-acetylcysteine) whereas it was enhanced by H2O2, as detected by both palmitate labelling and HPLC/MS. Similar data were also obtained using a novel approach that measures the incorporation of 17Sph (sphingosine containing 17 carbons) of 17C6-cer (C6-cer containing a 17Sph backbone) into long-chain 17C16-cer in cells by HPLC/MS, which was significantly decreased and increased in response to GSH and H2O2 respectively. TNF (tumour necrosis factor)-a, which decreases the levels of endogenous GSH, increased the generation of C16-cer in response to C6-cer, and this was blocked by exogenous GSH or NAC, or by the overexpression of TPx I (thioredoxin peroxidase I), an enzyme that reduces the generation of intracellular ROS (reactive oxygen species). Additional data showed that ROS regulated both the deacylation and reacylation steps of C6-cer. At a functional level, C6-cer inhibited the DNA-binding function of the c-Myc/Max oncogene. Inhibition of the generation of longchain ceramide in response to C6-cer by FB1 or NAC significantly blocked the modulation of the c-Myc/Max function. These data demonstrate that the sphingosine-recycling pathway for the generation of endogenous long-chain ceramide in response to exogenous C6-cer is regulated by ROS, and plays an important biological role in controlling c-Myc function.
A simple empirical model of salt marsh plant spatial distributions with respect to a tidal channel network

Abstract Previous work has shown that the distribution of plant species in a salt marsh near Petaluma, CA, is strongly influenced by the location and size of tidal channels. We developed a simple mathematical model to measure the “channel influence” at each point as a cumulative function based on inverse squared distance to channel, length of potentially influential channel, and channel order (a surrogate for channel cross-sectional area.) Plant species distributions predicted with this channel influence function compared favorably to known distributions in Petaluma Marsh. Using this function and probabilities estimated from transect vegetation data, we simulated the two-dimensional pattern of species abundance across the entire site. Comparisons of predictions with independently generated field maps showed comparable patterns of cover for most species. The results indicate that the distribution of vegetation in Petaluma Marsh, both major zones of marsh dominants and patches of minor species, can be described by a single, empirical factor: cumulative distance from tidal channels of different size.
A Procedure for Investigating the Liapunov Stability of Nonautonomous Linear Second-Order Systems

Utilizing Liapunov’s direct method a procedure is presented which generates sufficient conditions for the stability of the null solution of the nonautonomous differential equation x + b(t)x + a(t)x = 0. This procedure systematically leads to the construction of a Liapunov function for a given differential equation and thus eliminates the normally ad hoc nature of the direct method. Four examples illustrating the procedure are discussed.
Differences in Antibody Response to Streptococcal Antigens in Children with Rheumatic and Non-rheumatic Mitral Valve Disease

The usefulness of streptococcal antibody tests — anti-streptolysin O (ASO), anti-desoxyribonuclease B (anti-DNAse B), and anti-group A carbohydrate (A-antibody) — in differentiating rheumatic from non-rheumatic mitral disease was explored. Sera from 154 children with mitral disease were studied. Fifteen of 17 patients with chronic mitral insufficiency (MI) following acute rheumatic fever manifested persistence of elevated A-antibody levels following the decline of ASO and anti-DNAse B titers to normal 18-36 months after their acute illness. This antibody pattern was not observed among sera from 35 patients with congenital mitral valve deformities. Serologic study of 71 children with mitral disease of obscure etiology identified three groups: subgroup A includes those 12 who demonstrated the antibody pattern associated with rheumatic MI, while subgroup B is comprised of 39 children with normal A-antibody levels. Twenty patients (subgroup C) manifested evidence of recent streptococcal infection. These data suggest that the use of the A-antibody test in conjunction with other streptococcal antibody tests is of potential value in differentiating rheumatic from non-rheumatic mitral disease.
Symptoms of Stress in Four Societies

Summary A questionnaire of 33 items concerning reactions to stressful situations was administered to samples of French, American, Filipino, and Haitian college students. Differences in reported frequency were found for sex, level of industrialization, language, and nationality. Factor analyses of the total sample and of male and female national samples revealed cultural differences in patterns of reaction with French speakers showing different combinations of physical and cognitive disruptions.
Nest Defense by Red Jungle Fowl (Gallus gallus spadiceus) Hens: The Roles of Renesting Potential, Parental Experience and Brood Reproductive Value

Reproductive-effort theory predicts that parents of any given age should expend more parental effort (1) as their residual reproductive value declines, and (2) as the reproductive value of offspring increases. An observational and experimental study of nest defense by captive red jungle fowl hens was used to examine these two predictions. Both young and old individuals significantly increased defense of the second nest compared to the first nest within a season; this pattern occurred for the defense of both eggs and chicks. Old hens showed significantly greater defense of both eggs and chicks in each of the nests than did young hens. Both young and old hens were significantly more defensive of chicks than eggs in each of two clutches of a season. Hens also reduced their nest defense significantly at the end of a two to three-day period after their chicks were replaced with eggs, and increased their nest defense after eggs were exchanged for chicks. Hens given four chicks showed more vigorous defense than hens given two chicks. When the brood size of hens with four chicks was reduced to one chick, the hens responded by exhibiting less vigorous nest defense. These patterns of nest defense in jungle fowl were not confounded by parental experience of hens, or differences in offspring quality that are related to time of breeding, maternal age, sire genetic quality or vulnerability of offspring to weather.
Proposed Experiment to Study Relaxation Formation of a Spherical Tokamak with a Plasma Center Column

A spherical tokamak (ST) with a plasma center column (PCC) can be formed via driven magnetic relaxation of a screw pinch plasma. An ST-PCC could in principle eliminate many problems associated with a material center column, a key weakness of the ST reactor concept. This work summarizes the design space for an ST-PCC in terms of flux amplification, aspect ratio, and elongation, based on the zero-β Taylor-relaxed analysis of Tang & Boozer [Phys. Plasmas 13, 042514 (2006)]. The paper will discuss (1) equilibrium and stability properties of the ST-PCC, (2) issues for an engineering design, and (3) key differences between the proposed ST-PCC and the ongoing Proto-Sphera effort in Italy.
School Belonging among Low-Income Urban Youth with Disabilities: Testing a Theoretical Model

Positive school environments and school belonging have been associated with a variety of positive academic, social, and psychological outcomes among youth. Yet, it is not clear how these constructs are related, and few studies have focused on urban at-risk youth with disabilities. This study examines baseline survey data from 136 low-income African American and Latino students in grades 5 to 12, most of whom have disabilities, recently transferred following a school closure. Using structural equation modeling, we tested a model that examined the relationships among school stressors and resources, school belonging, academic outcomes (school satisfaction and academic self-efficacy), and psychological outcomes (anxiety and depression). This model was an excellent fit with the data, and findings indicate that school belonging plays a central role in explaining how school context can affect both psychological and academic outcomes. This model has implications for school-based interventions that can enhance student success and well-being. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Growth of single crystal fibers for optical applications

A miniaturized float zone process using laser heating has been found to be very effective for producing long, small-diameter single crystals (i.e., single-crystal fibers). These crystals are easier to grow, can be prepared at higher growth rates, and generally have higher crystalline perfection than crystals grown by other methods. Use of this technology should therefore facilitate the determination of the physical properties of a wide range of materials for device applications. In addition, possibilities exist for using the single-crystal fibers, either singly or in multiple-fiber arrays, in a variety of device applications. Various aspects of fiber growth are discussed, including the float zone process and some examples of the growth of several interesting optical materials, including LiNbO/sub 3/ and Sr/sub x/Ba/sub 1-x/Nb/sub 2/O/sub 6/, and the growth of BaTiO/sub 3/-BaB/sub 2/O/sub 4/ and Bi/sub 2/O/sub 3/-GeO/sub 2/ fibers from eutectic melts. >
Comparisons of allometric and climate-derived estimates of tree coarse root carbon stocks in forests of the United States

Refined estimation of carbon (C) stocks within forest ecosystems is a critical component of efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the effects of projected climate change through forest C management. Specifically, belowground C stocks are currently estimated in the United States’ national greenhouse gas inventory (US NGHGI) using nationally consistent species- and diameter-specific equations applied to individual trees. Recent scientific evidence has pointed to the importance of climate as a driver of belowground C stocks. This study estimates belowground C using current methods applied in the US NGHGI and describes a new approach for merging both allometric models with climate-derived predictions of belowground C stocks. Climate-adjusted predictions were variable depending on the region and forest type of interest, but represented an increase of 368.87 Tg of belowground C across the US, or a 6.4 % increase when compared to currently-implemented NGHGI estimates. Random forests regressions indicated that aboveground biomass, stand age, and stand origin (i.e., planted versus artificial regeneration) were useful predictors of belowground C stocks. Decreases in belowground C stocks were modeled after projecting mean annual temperatures at various locations throughout the US up to year 2090. By combining allometric equations with trends in temperature, we conclude that climate variables can be used to adjust the US NGHGI estimates of belowground C stocks. Such strategies can be used to determine the effects of future global change scenarios within a C accounting framework.
Functional capacity of the residual lymphocytes from zinc-deficient adult mice.

Zn deficiency has been shown to reduce host defence drastically. It was of interest to determine the capacity of the residual lymphocytes from Zn-deficient mice to proliferate and produce lymphokines in response to stimulation since there are many Zn-dependent metalloenzymes that might be altered by the deficiency. To address this question, young adult A/J mice were provided Zn-deficient or Zn-adequate diets or restricted amounts of a Zn-adequate diet for 30 d. Splenocytes from moderately or severely Zn- deficient adult A/J mice gave normal proliferative responses and generated adequate interleukin II (IL- 2) activity when stimulated with the mitogen Concanavalin A. However, splenocytes from deficient mice exhibited a higher degree of proliferation (about 150%) and production of IL-2 in response to foreign target cells compared with T-cells prepared from mice provided a Zn-adequate diet. B-cells from deficient mice stimulated in vivo with sheep erythrocytes produced fewer total numbers of plaque-forming cells (PFC) per spleen. Nevertheless, the proportion or number of PFC/106 viable splenocytes and the amounts of IgM and IgG antibody produced per PFC were equivalent to those of adequately-fed and restricted-fed controls. The previously described responses were not significantly affected by whether the level of Zn in the culture medium was adequate or limiting. Based on these tests it appeared that the residual splenic lymphocytes of Zn-deficient mice were able to carry out many fundamental immune processes.
New onset seizures and CNS tuberculoma.

A 22-year-old mentally challenged Asian immigrant presented to the emergency room with new onset seizures. He complained of worsening headache for several weeks. He had no cough, fever or weight loss. He immigrated to the USA 7 years ago and his tuberculin skin test was negative at intake. Physical examination revealed a lethargic orally intubated patient. He had stable vital signs. He had equal and reactive pupils. He did not have neck rigidity and the rest of his examination was within normal limits. His human immune deficiency virus (HIV) test was negative. Head …
Enabling system-level platform resilience through embedded data-driven inference capabilities in electronic devices

Advanced devices for embedded and ambient applications represent one of the most compelling classes of electronic systems, but they also impose more severe constraints on system resources than ever before. Although platform non-idealities have always posed a fundamental limitation, the overheads of conventional margining are now reaching intolerable levels. We describe an alternate approach to hardware resilience that applies to applications where advanced modeling and inference capabilities are required, a rapidly increasing emphasis in many applications. We show how a data-driven modeling framework for analyzing application data can also be used to effectively model and overcome a broad range of hardware non-idealities. Specific examples for biomedical sensors are shown that are able to retain performance with minimal on-line overhead despite the presence of severe digital- and analog-circuit non-idealities.
Medial collateral ligament of the elbow: acute deterioration in throwing athletes.

THE PATIENT A 27-year-old professional pitcher felt a pop in his elbow while throwing a fastball during the last week of spring training. Eighteen months before this episode he had medial-sided elbow pain that resolved in the off season. On examination the elbow is not swollen, there is no ecchymosis, and there are no neurovascular abnormalities. He is tender over the medial aspect of the elbow, just distal to the medial epicondyle. He has pain and tenderness over the medial aspect of the elbow with a valgus stress test, the modified milking maneuver, and the moving valgus stress test. Percussion of the ulnar nerve over the cubital tunnel does not elicit paresthesias. Radiographs are normal. Magnetic resonance imaging of the elbow shows a complete rupture of the medial collateral ligament (MCL) from its origin on the medial epicondyle.
Dynamic I/O power management for hard real-time systems

Power consumption is an important design parameter for embedded and portable systems. Software-controlled (or dynamic) power management (DPM) has recently emerged as an attractive alternative to inflexible hardware solutions. DPM for hard real-time systems has received relatively little attention. In particular, energy-driven I/O device scheduling for real-time systems has not been considered before. We present the first online DPM algorithm, which we call Low Energy Device Scheduler (LEDES), for hard real-time systems. LEDES takes as inputs a predetermined task schedule and a device-usage list for each task and it generates a sequence of sleep/working states for each device. It guarantees that real-time constraints are not violated and it also minimizes the energy consumed by the I/O devices used by the task set. LEDES is energy-optimal under the constraint that the start times of the tasks are fixed. We present a case study to show that LEDES can reduce energy consumption by almost 50%.
A static vapor pressure apparatus for mixtures

A static vapor pressure apparatus is described which is especially suitable for mixtures. A vapor pressure flask with a built-in condenser allows the mixture to be degassed without change in composition. The entire apparatus is assembled from simple parts. Equilibrium is rapidly attained with either an external pressure or a liquid of known vapor pressure used as a reference.
Developments in reconstruction of midface and maxilla

Loss of the maxilla and midfacial structures after tumour removal has substantial functional and aesthetic consequences. The variable loss of soft tissue, bone, or both, leading to collapse of the lip, cheek, periorbital soft tissues, and palatal competence present a challenging dilemma for reconstructive surgeons. Efforts have been made to classify these midfacial defects and provide appropriate algorithms for optimum reconstruction. Not only does the cavity need to be obliterated and midfacial contours recreated, but swallowing function, phonation, and mastication need to be restored for an ideal result. Traditionally, these defects would have been repaired by a maxillofacial prosthesis but advances in tissue transfers, particularly of microvascular free flaps, have greatly increased reconstructive options. The wide variety of free flaps that contain both soft tissue and bone offer unique properties that could be applicable depending on the defect. Combinations of free tissue transfer, local flaps, and maxillofacial prostheses might achieve a more ideal result than one technique alone. Advances in osseointegration have also enhanced the ability to achieve the best function and form. No one flap or technique is sufficient to reconstruct midface defects in all patients. The choices should be tailored to the bony and soft-tissue needs of each specific defect, denture-bearing potential of the original tissues, and available prosthodontic support. Use of a multidisciplinary approach to reconstruct these defects can yield excellent results. The complexity of the techniques should match the desired goals and needs of each individual patient.
A Model of Buoyant Throughflow: With Application to Branching of the Tsushima Current*

Abstract A reduced-gravity model is used here to investigate the dynamics of a buoyant flow through a strait driven by pressure difference of the adjoining basins. Assuming the flow to be hydraulically controlled so that the transport is maximized, flow structures in the upstream basin, during its transit through the strait and along the downstream coast, are determined. It is found in particular that the combined effect of friction exerted by the sill and stretching of the buoyant layer as it exits the strait may cause the downstream flow to exhibit two velocity maxima—along the layer outcrop and the coastal boundary. When applied to the Tsushima Current of the Japan/East Sea, the required conditions for branching are amply satisfied, the model thus provides a plausible explanation of this observed feature. In addition, a favorable comparison between predicted and observed transports supports the hydraulic control of the flow.
A Notional Model of Creation, Maintenance, and Enrichment of Human Capital

Abstract Systems engineering approaches to complex socio-technical systems need good models to represent the variety of human components of the complex system. Human systems integration (HSI) is the set of systems engineering processes that ensure all human-related technical issues are properly identified and addressed during system design and development. Thus, HSI applied to complex socio-technical systems needs a generalized model of all the human components of the system. A primary construct useful in this context is human capital; that is, the durable assets of knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) that humans possess that enable the production of goods and services in an economy. These same capital assets also consume the goods and services produced by that economy. Overall, the human capital is maintained by a healthcare system throughout the lifespan, and in-demand KSAs are created by an educational and training system. Enrichment of human capital can occur throughout the lifespan. Key criterion measures are the subjective well-being (SWB) and standard of living (SOL) of the population, the cost of producing KSAs that are in demand, the reduction in productivity due to health and safety problems, and the goodness of fit of KSAs of an individual with the KSAs demanded by their job. This model expands the traditional concerns of human factors to a socio-technical scale. Each of the seven domains of HSI can be expressed in more general terms across a broader organization. Examples of system performance measures that are used by this model include number of lost work days (due to health problems), disability adjusted life years, cost of producing a degree from an accredited school, and utilization of the available workforce.
Systemic Use of Argatroban Reduces Tumor Mass, Attenuates Neurological Deficits and Prolongs Survival Time in Rat Glioma Models

Our previous studies showed that intracerebral infusion of argatroban, a specific thrombin inhibitor, reduces brain edema and neurological deficits in a C6 glioma model. The present study investigated whether systemic argatroban administration can reduce glioma mass and neurological deficits and extend survival time in C6 and F98 gliomas. Rat C6 or F98 glioma cells were infused into the right caudate of adult male Fischer 344 rats. Osmotic minipump loaded with argatroban (0.3 mg/hour) or vehicle was implanted into abdomen immediately after glioma implantation. Tumor mass was determined at day 9. Over the period of the experiment, the animals underwent behavioral testing (forelimb placing and forelimb use asymmetry). In addition, survival time was tested in the F98 glioma model. In C6 glioma, argatroban reduced glioma mass (p < 0.05) and neurological deficits (p < 0.05) at day 9. In F98 glioma, agratroban prolonged the survival time (p < 0.05) and reduced the body weight loss (84 ± 15 gram vs. 99 ± 2 gram in the vehicle group, P < 0.05). In conclusion, systemic use of argatroban reduced tumor mass and neurological deficits, and prolonged survival time. These results suggest that thrombin plays a key role in glioma growth and thrombin inhibition with argatroban may be a novel treatment for gliomas.
Adaptive Adjustment of Connectivity in the Inferior Colliculus Revealed by Focal Pharmacological Inactivation

In the midbrain sound localization pathway of the barn owl, a map of auditory space is synthesized in the external nucleus of the inferior colliculus (ICX) and transmitted to the optic tectum. Early auditory experience shapes these maps of auditory space in part by modifying the tuning of the constituent neurons for interaural time difference (ITD), a primary cue for sound-source azimuth. Here we show that these adaptive modifications in ITD tuning correspond to changes in the pattern of connectivity within the inferior colliculus. We raised owls with an acoustic filtering device in one ear that caused frequency-dependent changes in sound timing and level. As reported previously, device rearing shifted the representation of ITD in the ICX and tectum but not in the primary source of input to the ICX, the central nucleus of the inferior colliculus (ICC). We applied the local anesthetic lidocaine (QX-314) iontophoretically in the ICC to inactivate small populations of neurons that represented particular values of frequency and ITD. We measured the effect of this inactivation in the optic tecta of a normal owl and owls raised with the device. In the normal owl, inactivation at a critical site in the ICC eliminated responses in the tectum to the frequency-specific ITD value represented at the site of inactivation in the ICC. The location of this site was consistent with the known pattern of ICC-ICX-tectum connectivity. In the device-reared owls, adaptive changes in the representation of ITD in the tectum corresponded to dramatic and predictable changes in the locations of the critical sites of inactivation in the ICC. Given that the abnormal representation of ITD in the tectum depended on frequency and was likely conveyed directly from the ICX, these results suggest that experience causes large-scale, frequency-specific adjustments in the pattern of connectivity between the ICC and the ICX.
Gravel threshold of motion: a state function of sediment transportdisequilibrium?

Abstract. In most sediment transport models, a threshold variable dictates the shear stress at which non-negligible bedload transport begins. Previous work has demonstrated that nondimensional transport thresholds (τc*) vary with many factors related not only to grain size and shape, but also with characteristics of the local bed surface and sediment transport rate (qs). I propose a new model in which qs-dependent τc*, notated as τc(qs)*, evolves as a power-law function of net erosion or deposition. In the model, net entrainment is assumed to progressively remove more mobile particles while leaving behind more stable grains, gradually increasing τc(qs)* and reducing transport rates. Net deposition tends to fill in topographic lows, progressively leading to less stable distributions of surface grains, decreasing τc(qs)* and increasing transport rates. Model parameters are calibrated based on laboratory flume experiments that explore transport disequilibrium. The τc(qs)* equation is then incorporated into a simple morphodynamic model. The evolution of τc(qs)* is a negative feedback on morphologic change, while also allowing reaches to equilibrate to sediment supply at different slopes. Finally, τc(qs)* is interpreted to be an important but nonunique state variable for morphodynamics, in a manner consistent with state variables such as temperature in thermodynamics.
Self-reported and measured weights and heights of participants in community-based weight loss programs

Self-reported weights and heights of 82 adults were compared with measured weights and heights 1 to 3 years after participation in community weight loss programs. The mean self-reported weight was 2.3 +/- 1.9 kg lower than measured weight (P < .05). Differences in underreporting were not significant for gender or age group. Heavier individuals misreported their weight to a greater extent (P < .05) than lighter persons, and individuals who had not recently weighed themselves underreported their weight to a greater extent than those who had weighed recently (P < .05). On the average, height was overreported by a mean of 1.8 +/- 2.7 cm. Overreporting increased with increasing height, and men overestimated their height to a greater extent than women (P < .05). Younger subjects reported their height more accurately than those older than 60 years. Results of our study are similar to those of previous investigations that examined self-reporting bias in subjects enrolled in weight loss programs. The mean discrepancy in body weight, however, was greater than that reported in samples drawn from the general population. Our findings indicate that self-reported weight and height values in overweight populations should be interpreted with caution.
Effects of Gemfibrozil on Serum Lipids

A two-part, multicenter study to assess the clinical efficacy, side effects, and safety of gemfibrozil in 427 patients over treatment durations of up to 13 months showed that this drug markedly reduces the level of serum triglycerides, while moderately lowering total serum cholesterol levels. The high-density lipoprotein cholesterol level was substantially increased, with concomitant decreases in low-density lipoprotein and very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. The drug was generally well tolerated. However, a potential for increasing blood glucose levels was noted and careful monitoring during therapy is recommended.
Interrelations between Agricultural and Industrial Growth

The main objective of this condensed statement is to provide a ‘scaffold’ from which to view the more important interrelationships between agriculture and other economic sectors in the course of economic growth. The first section describes the process of structural transformation and the increase in sectoral interdependence that characterises modern economic growth. In the second section attention is focused on factors that determine the growth of farm cash income and an analysis of the effects of the cash disbursements of farm households on the development of other economic sectors. A final section considers some of the policy implications of the interrelationships between agriculture and industry that exist during various phases of development.
A CRISPR New World: Attitudes in the Public toward Innovations in Human Genetic Modification.

The potential to genetically modify human germlines has reached a critical tipping point with recent applications of CRISPR-Cas9. Even as researchers, clinicians, and ethicists weigh the scientific and ethical repercussions of these advances, we know virtually nothing about public attitudes on the topic. Understanding such attitudes will be critical to determining the degree of broad support there might be for any public policy or regulation developed for genetic modification research. To fill this gap, we gave an online survey to a large (2493 subjects) and diverse sample of Americans. Respondents supported genetic modification research, although demographic variables influenced this attitudes– conservatives, women, African Americans, and older respondents, while supportive, were more cautious than liberals, men, other ethnicities, and younger respondents., Support was also was slightly muted when the risks (unanticipated mutations and possibility of eugenics) were made explicit. The information about genetic modification was also presented as contrasting vignettes, using one of five frames: genetic editing, engineering, hacking, modification, or surgery. Despite the fact that the media and academic use of frames describing the technology varies, these frames did not influence people’s attitudes. These data contribute a current snapshot of public attitudes to inform policy with regard to human genetic modification.
Gone, But Not Forgotten? Survey of Resident Attitudes Toward a Cultural Standardized Patient Examination for a General Surgery Residency Program.

Abstract Purpose: Various tools have been utilized for cultural competency training in residency programs, including cultural standardized patient examinations. However, it is unknown whether residents feel the training they received has a long-term impact on how they care for patients. The purpose of this study was to assess whether surgical residents who participated in a cultural standardized patient examination view the experience as beneficial. Methods: Surgical residents who completed a standardized patient examination from Fall 2009 to Spring 2015 were asked to complete a 13-question survey assessing the following: (1) did participants feel prepared when dealing with patients from different cultural backgrounds, (2) did they feel the standardized patient experience was beneficial or improved their ability to care for patients, and (3) did they perceive that cultural competence was important when dealing with patients. Results: Sixty current/former residents were asked to participate and 24 (40%) co...
Separation and Characterization of Crude Oil Compounds from the Oil Contaminated Soil

There are three important pollution aspects with crude oil contaminated soil: 1. Air pollution because of the low boiling fractions of crude oil, 2. Ground water pollution because of the crude oil compounds, which can elute with water (rain water etc.) from soil and 3. Soil pollution (non mobile crude oil components). Their migration velocity with water is very low.
An imaging-based analysis of lipid deposits on contact lens surfaces.

Abstract Purpose To evaluate whether LipidTOX could stain lipid deposits on contact lens (CL) surfaces and compare lipid deposition patterns on various CL surfaces using an imaging method. Methods Ten CLs each of six silicone hydrogel materials and one hydrogel material were incubated in cholesteryl oleate solution (5.60 mg/ml) for 12 hours. The CLs were then separately stained with Oil Red O and LipidTOX and imaged under a fluorescence microscope. Twenty worn senofilcon A CLs from both eyes of ten participants were also stained similarly. The area of deposition was calculated using Fiji software. Median deposition areas were compared between various materials using the Kruskal-Wallis test. The Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare the median deposition areas in the same material using the two dyes and also to compare the median deposition areas on worn and doped senofilcon A CLs. Results LipidTOX staining needed fewer steps than Oil Red O for staining the deposits. There was no statistically significant difference between the median areas of lipid deposition among the CL materials using either Oil Red O (p = 0.42) or LipidTOX (p = 0.21). However, significantly different median deposition areas were found between in vitro and ex vivo stained senofilcon A CLs using both Oil Red O (p = 0.002) and LipidTOX (p = 0.029). Conclusions LipidTOX can stain lipid deposits on contact lens surfaces and is simpler to use than Oil Red O. Lipid deposition in the central 2 mm diameter zone did not significantly differ between various commercial CL materials.
How Much Noise Is an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon Exposed to

Purpose A common concern among oral and maxillofacial surgeons (OMSs) is progressive hearing loss throughout their careers. Although this has not been critically studied, there could be several factors that contribute to this detriment, including drills, saws, suction, music, and other sounds within the closed operating environment. This study observed the intensity of noise in operating rooms (ORs) and clinical settings during the use of drills, saws, surgical handpieces, and other tools. Materials and Methods In this cross-sectional study, sound intensities were measured in decibels using a CEM DT-8851 industrial high-accuracy digital sound noise level meter data logger in clinics and ORs. The device measured sound intensities during the entire duration of the procedures. The recorded drilling periods were extracted from the data and t tests were run to determine whether a statistically relevant difference existed between the non-drilling and drilling periods. In addition, the duration during which intensity was greater than or equal to 85 dB was measured. Results Fifty procedures were recorded in the clinical setting and 50 were recorded in the OR. The results of this study proved that OMSs were indeed exposed to sound intensities in decibels that exceeded Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines, but these exposures occurred less than 1% of the time. The maximum recorded intensities in the clinic and OR were during a non-drilling period and these were attributed to suction. Conclusion OSHA guidelines were exceeded in clinical and OR settings, but the results were not relevant. The authors believe this is a very promising study for future endeavors. They found that the threshold set by OSHA was exceeded at points during surgical procedures in the clinic and OR. This will prompt future studies focusing on recordings when suction is used and longitudinal studies of individual OMSs.