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We use the Kelvin‐Helmholtz instability (KHI) condition with particle and magnetic field observations from Jovian Auroral Distributions Experiment and MAG on Juno along the dawn flank of Jupiter's magnetosphere. We identify the occurrence of magnetopause crossings that show evidence of being KH (Kelvin‐Helmholtz) unstable. When estimating the k vector to be parallel to the velocity shear, we find that 25 of 62 (40%) magnetopause crossings satisfy the KHI condition. When considering the k vector of the maximum growth rate through a solid angle approach, we find that 60 of 62 (97%) events are KH unstable. This study shows evidence of KH waves at Jupiter's dawn flank, including primary drivers such as high velocity shears and changes in plasma pressure. Signatures of magnetic reconnection were also observed in ∼25% of the KH unstable crossings. We discuss these results and their implication for the prevalence of KHI at Juno's dawn magnetopause as measured by Juno. Plain Language Summary: The Kelvin‐Helmholtz instability occurs when a boundary separating two fluids of different densities is perturbed and these fluids are moving at different speeds, directions, or both. The difference in speeds across the perturbed boundary that separates the fluids creates wave structures as these fluids diffuse into each other. The Kelvin‐Helmholtz instability may be observed at the boundary that separates a planetary magnetic field (magnetosphere) from the stream of charged particles emitted by the Sun (solar wind); this boundary is known as the magnetopause. This instability is confirmed to occur at Earth and Saturn, but is not confirmed at Jupiter. This study analyzes the properties of the plasma and magnetic field in Jupiter's magnetosphere and the surrounding solar wind to identify signatures of the Kelvin‐Helmholtz instability. We find that out of 62 occurrences where the Juno spacecraft crosses the magnetopause, 25 events signify that the Kelvin‐Helmholtz instability is possible—primarily due to large differences in velocities—and 37 events do not. Key Points: There is evidence of Kelvin‐Helmholtz instability (KHI)‐driven waves along Jupiter's dawn flank magnetopause during the Juno prime mission24 (38.7%) crossings satisfied the KHI condition and 38 (61.3%) crossings did not satisfy the KHI conditionMagnetopause crossings that satisfied the KHI condition had, in general, larger velocity shears than those that did not [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The A14 archaeological project was the largest commercial archaeological programme in the UK - spanning a 25 km stretch of rural Cambridgeshire, which included a pioneering and ambitious multi-isotope programme to examine crop, livestock and human remains. The resulting dataset spans the Bronze Age to medieval period, incorporating settlements spread across multiple landscape blocks. Our focus on the Iron Age, Roman and Anglo-Saxon periods reveals a remarkable continuity in agricultural practices, diet and provenance. This isotopic homogeneity suggests a persistence of local traditions despite macro-economic and socio-political shifts. Subtle variations within this pattern, however, offer unique insights into individuals who deviated from the norm, hinting at the growing influence of external connections and market economies on these past communities. This study underscores the value of integrating multi-isotope analysis in large-scale commercial archaeological projects, and the rich narrative that emerges from collaborative efforts between commercial and academic researchers. • A large-scale multi-isotope, multi-proxy analysis programme part of the commercial A14 archaeological project. • The study reveals an emphasis on continuity from the Iron Age through to the medieval period in Cambridgeshire, UK. • The greatest level of innovation was in crop agriculture, although all periods had an emphasis on high fertility farming. • Animal husbandry practices and human diet were especially homogenous across all periods. • Despite the overall pattern of consistency, isotope analysis reveals unusual life histories for some individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, observations from the Jovian auroral distributions experiment, Jupiter energetic particle detector instrument, and Magnetic field investigation instruments on Juno are used to identify signatures of magnetic reconnection at Jupiter's dawn magnetopause and relate these signatures to the local plasma environment. Magnetopause crossings occurred between 73–114 Jovian radii and 4.3–6.2 magnetic local time at low latitudes. Reconnection signatures include plasma energization and ion velocity enhancements resembling reconnection jets. We test for diamagnetic suppression which considers the magnetic shear and plasma beta (β) before and after a magnetopause crossing. Findings show that a large majority of these dawn magnetopause crossings at Jupiter have a low likelihood for local magnetic reconnection (are diamagnetically suppressed) because of high delta β values and/or low magnetic shear angles across the magnetopause boundary. These crossings exhibit no evidence of local reconnection while crossings that are not diamagnetically suppressed show multiple signatures of reconnection, adhering to the Swisdak relation. Plain Language Summary: Magnetic reconnection is a process in which magnetic field lines merge and magnetic energy is transferred to the surrounding plasma. This causes plasma to be ejected at high speeds from the reconnection site. Magnetic reconnection at Jupiter's magnetopause is identified by observing signatures such as increased plasma velocities and energies as the spacecraft transitions from Jupiter's magnetic field to the interplanetary magnetic field or vice versa. Identifying these signatures using instruments aboard the Juno spacecraft helps to understand the physical processes at Jupiter's magnetopause. The draped magnetic field in the magnetosheath and Jupiter's magnetic field are similarly oriented for a significant number of the observed crossings and there is a significantly large difference in pressure across the magnetopause. As a result, local magnetic reconnection is suppressed for a majority of these magnetopause crossings and does not significantly contribute to the dynamics of solar wind interactions at Jupiter's dawn magnetopause during this time. Key Points: Sixty‐two magnetopause crossings at Jupiter's dawnside magnetosphere were identified and analyzed for signatures of magnetic reconnectionThirty‐nine percent of the crossings had magnetic shear angles less than 20°, resulting in a low probability for local reconnection at the magnetopauseCrossings with high (low) magnetic shear and low (high) Δβ are consistent with the Swisdak relation for reconnection probability [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A boron-doped designer heater anvil is used in conjunction with powder x-ray diffraction to collect structural information on a sample of quasi-hydrostatically loaded gadolinium metal up to pressures above 8GPa and 600K. The heater anvil consists of a natural diamond anvil that has been surface modified with a homoepitaxially grown chemical-vapor-deposited layer of conducting boron-doped diamond, and is used as a DC heating element. Internally insulating both diamond anvils with sapphire support seats allows for heating and cooling of the high-pressure area on the order of a few tens of seconds. This device is then used to scan the phase diagram of the sample by oscillating the temperature while continuously increasing the externally applied pressure and collecting in situ time-resolved powder diffraction images. In the pressure-temperature range covered in this experiment, the gadolinium sample is observed in its hcp, αSm, and dhcp phases. Under this temperature cycling, the hcp→ αSm transition proceeds in discontinuous steps at points along the expected phase boundary. From these measurements (representing only one hour of synchrotron x-ray collection time), a single-experiment equation of state and phase diagram of each phase of gadolinium is presented for the range of 0-10GPa and 300-650K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laminitis is an extremely painful and debilitating condition of horses that can affect their athletic ability and even quality of life. The current gold standard for assessment of laminar tissue is histology, which is the only modality that enables detailed visualization of the lamina. Histology requires dissection of the hoof and therefore can only represent one specific time point. The superior spatial and contrast resolution of synchrotron computed tomography (sCT), when compared with readily available imaging modalities, such as radiographs and conventional CT, provides an opportunity for detailed studies of the lamina without the need for hoof dissection and histological assessment. If the resolution of histology can be matched or even approached, dynamic events, such as laminar blood flow, could also be studied on the microscopic tissue level. To investigate this possible application of sCT further, two objectives are presented: (i) to develop a protocol for sCT of an equine digit using cadaver limbs and (ii) to apply the imaging protocol established during (i) for sCT imaging of the vasculature within the foot using an ex vivo perfusion system to deliver the vascular contrast. The hypotheses were that sCT would allow sufficient resolution for detailed visualization to the level of the secondary lamellae and associated capillaries within the equine digit. Synchrotron CT enabled good visualization of the primary lamellae (average length 3.6 mm) and the ex vivo perfusion system was able to deliver vascular contrast agent to the vessels of the lamina. The individual secondary lamellae (average length 0.142 mm) could not be seen in detail, although differentiation between primary and secondary lamellae was achieved. This approaches, but does not yet reach, the current gold standard, histology, for assessment of the lamellae; however, with further refinement of this imaging technique, improved resolution may be accomplished in future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In the United States, nearly half of all women will report having at least one type of female sexual dysfunction at any given point in their lives. Female Sexual Dysfunction (FSD) is defined as a disturbance in sexual desire, psychophysiological changes that characterize the sexual response cycle, and marked sexual distress and interpersonal difficulty. Most women feel their healthcare provider should discuss their sexual concerns, yet few report being asked or screened about their sexual health. Women may seek care to address their sexual health concerns because sexual concerns can affect their quality of life. Objective: The specific aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of an online educational intervention about female sexual dysfunction on the knowledge and self-efficacy of healthcare providers. Methods: The project is a single-arm effectiveness study that used a pre-test/post-test design, aiming to improve self-efficacy of physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and certified nurse-midwives who provide gynecological care. Participants were recruited via convenience and snowball sampling. The participants provided demographic and pre-test data before viewing the educational intervention and completed the post-test immediately following. Results: Forty-three participants completed responses to the entire questionnaire, including pre and post-test. The majority of participants identified as female (91%), Caucasian (51%), nurse practitioners (81%) providing gynecological care for 6-15 years (53%) and live in the South (58%). Following the intervention, participants demonstrated a significant increase in confidence in their ability to communicate about sex with older adults (p < 0.001, d 0.51) and with those who have differing sexuality from their own (p <0.00, d 0.53). There was an increase in confidence in the knowledge to care for patients with religious/spiritual convictions about sexuality (p < 0.006, d 0.40) and sexual problems related to a medical, pharmacological, or surgical treatment (p < 0.009, d 0.38). Participants reported fewer learning needs following the educational module with a moderate to large effect size across different competencies. Conclusions: Educating health care providers using an online educational module may lead to more confidence in the healthcare providers' communication with, knowledge of, and attitudes related to female sexual concerns. Healthcare providers can provide the necessary support and care for the women they serve by educating themselves to properly obtain sexual health history screening, physical exams, diagnoses, and treatment options. Online educational modules have enhanced healthcare providers' knowledge on various topics. The results of this study can be useful in creating education for healthcare providers in caring for FSD. Further studies are needed to determine the long-term effect of online education modules on the screening of female sexual dysfunction, attitudes and behaviors, effect on the self-efficacy of healthcare providers. Disclosure: No. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In the United States, nearly half of all women will report having at least one type of female sexual dysfunction at any given point in their lives. Female Sexual Dysfunction (FSD) is defined as a disturbance in sexual desire, psychophysiological changes that characterize the sexual response cycle, and marked sexual distress and interpersonal difficulty. Most women feel their healthcare provider should discuss their sexual concerns, yet few report being asked or screened about their sexual health. Women may seek care to address their sexual health concerns because sexual concerns can affect their quality of life. Objective: The specific aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of an online educational intervention about female sexual dysfunction on the knowledge and self-efficacy of healthcare providers. Methods: The project is a single-arm effectiveness study that used a pre-test/post-test design, aiming to improve self-efficacy of physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and certified nurse-midwives who provide gynecological care. Participants were recruited via convenience and snowball sampling. The participants provided demographic and pre-test data before viewing the educational intervention and completed the post-test immediately following. Results: Forty-three participants completed responses to the entire questionnaire, including pre and post-test. The majority of participants identified as female (91%), Caucasian (51%), nurse practitioners (81%) providing gynecological care for 6-15 years (53%) and live in the South (58%). Following the intervention, participants demonstrated a significant increase in confidence in their ability to communicate about sex with older adults (p < 0.001, d 0.51) and with those who have differing sexuality from their own (p <0.00, d 0.53). There was an increase in confidence in the knowledge to care for patients with religious/spiritual convictions about sexuality (p < 0.006, d 0.40) and sexual problems related to a medical, pharmacological, or surgical treatment (p < 0.009, d 0.38). Participants reported fewer learning needs following the educational module with a moderate to large effect size across different competencies. Conclusions: Educating health care providers using an online educational module may lead to more confidence in the healthcare providers' communication with, knowledge of, and attitudes related to female sexual concerns. Healthcare providers can provide the necessary support and care for the women they serve by educating themselves to properly obtain sexual health history screening, physical exams, diagnoses, and treatment options. Online educational modules have enhanced healthcare providers' knowledge on various topics. The results of this study can be useful in creating education for healthcare providers in caring for FSD. Further studies are needed to determine the long-term effect of online education modules on the screening of female sexual dysfunction, attitudes and behaviors, effect on the self-efficacy of healthcare providers. Disclosure: No. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon and nitrogen isotope profiles were obtained from incremental dentine analysis of 19 non‐adults from a cemetery in Riga, Latvia. The research compared the life histories and diet between people buried in two mass graves and the general cemetery. The δ13C profiles of several children from the mass graves were similar but did not resemble the patterns seen in children from the general cemetery, suggesting that they probably represented a different population group. The rise in δ15N values towards the end of the life of four individuals from one mass grave suggests they were victims of an historically documented famine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The question of whether rock grit ingested unintentionally from querns, metates or millstones, or deliberately through pica or geophagy, is bioaccessible in the human gut has not been addressed in archaeological strontium (Sr) isotope studies. This study employed the unified bioaccessibility method and determined that ingested rock grit can provide bioaccessible 87Sr/86Sr, but that unintentional consumption is unlikely to constitute > 1% of the diet (by mass) and will not significantly change, that is, by > 0.001, human skeletal 87Sr/86Sr. The use of locally or non‐locally sourced querns or millstones will not affect the interpretation of archaeological human 87Sr/86Sr values in Britain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Public awareness of 'red flag' symptoms for head and neck cancer is low. There is a lack of evidence regarding patient concerns and expectations in consultations for cancer assessment. Method: This prospective questionnaire study examined the symptoms, concerns and expectations of 250 consecutive patients attending an 'urgent suspicion of cancer' clinic at a tertiary referral centre. Results: The patients' most frequent responses regarding their concerns were 'no concerns' (n = 72, 29 per cent); 'all symptoms' were a cause for concern (n = 65, 26 per cent) and 'neck lump' was a symptom causing concern (n = 37, 17 per cent). The expectations of patients attending clinic were that they would find out what was wrong with them, followed by having no expectations at all. Overall patient knowledge of red flag symptoms was lacking and their expectations were low. Conclusion: Patients with non-cancer symptoms are frequently referred with suspected cancer. Patients with red flag symptoms are not aware of their significance and they have low expectations of healthcare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interaction between mangroves and storm surges is explored using an analytical solution. A simplified momentum equation, balancing vegetation drag and pressure gradient, is combined with the continuity equation resulting in a diffusion equation. Assuming a simplified environment, a one‐dimensional analytical solution is obtained to predict peak surge level across a forest. The solution accurately reproduces peak water level of a 10‐year return period flood event in mangroves in the Firth of Thames, New Zealand, and in Ten Thousand Islands, Florida, during Hurricane Charley. Vegetation properties that determine the capacity of mangroves to reduce surges are forest density and cross‐shore extent. Storm characteristics—flood duration and peak water level at the forest fringe—also influence surge attenuation. Mangroves are shown to be an effective form of coastal flood protection if forests are sufficiently wide/dense, relative to the surge decay length scale, to restrict water exchange during a storm. Plain Language Summary: Storm‐driven flooding is a major hazard in low‐lying coastal areas. Mangroves have previously been shown to provide effective coastal protection from storm waves. However, there is sparse evidence that mangroves reduce storm surge, which is the temporary increase in water level resulting from the combination of high winds and low atmospheric pressure during a weather event. Here we demonstrate that mangroves can reduce water flow and store water, thus helping to reduce peak surge water levels. We show that if forests are sufficiently wide, water levels within (and landward of) the mangroves are substantially lower than for a scenario in which mangroves are absent. The density of the vegetation, cross‐shore extent of the forest, and characteristics of the surge (duration and amplitude) all influence water‐level reduction in the forest. Key Points: An analytic solution is developed to describe storm surge propagation through coastal mangrovesThe water storage capacity of mangrove forests is shown to be as important as frictional effects in attenuating storm surgeReduction in peak storm surge level increases non‐linearly as mangrove forest width (cross‐shore) increases [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advanced Spectral Analysis Program is a LabVIEW-based program intended for rapid and accurate analysis of large sets of spectral data. It can handle a range of different types of data including angle-resolved and energy-dispersive powder diffraction and Raman spectra. We present it here with a focus on high-temperature high-pressure powder diffraction. The program contains a novel graphical user interface that allows rapid manual fitting and indexing of peaks which require precise fitting ranges and includes tools for fitting any Bravais lattice and arbitrary user-defined multivariate equations of state. The program allows the user to simultaneously view and manipulate multiple data sets from an experiment. The user can save and load analysis progress at any point, allowing for repeatable calculations to be performed, and to allow the fast comparison of different analysis parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An improved complete basis set-quadratic configuration interaction/atomic pair natural orbital (CBS-QCI/APNO) model is described in this paper. It provides chemical energy differences (i.e., D0 I.P., and E.A.) with a mean absolute error of 0.53 kcal/mol for the 64 first-row examples from the G2 test set, and is computationally feasible for species with up to three first-row atoms. A set of 20 CBS-QCI/APNO bond dissociation energies of hydrocarbons also agree with known experimental values to within less than 1 kcal/mol. Calculations on the cyclopropenyl radical and cyclopropenylidene provide new dissociation energies which are in accord with an interpretation of the thermochemistry emphasizing ring strain and aromaticity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An ab initio study of the electronic structure of NF5 and PF5 has been carried out using Mo\ller–Plesset perturbation theory. Optimized geometries were calculated at the SCF and MP2 levels of theory using several basis sets, ranging from 6-31G to 6-311G(2df). A vibrational analysis indicates that NF5, in D3h symmetry, has all real frequencies, even if d orbital contributions are set to zero. Dissimilar N–F bond lengths (req=1.38 Å, rax=1.58 Å) are found, in contrast to PF5, which exhibits nearly equal equatorial and axial bond lengths. A topological analysis of the calculated charge distribution in NF5 indicates true pentavalent coordination. Spectroscopic data for NF5 have been calculated using a scaled MP2 force field based on the known NF3 molecule. A comparison of calculated thermochemistry between NF3 and NF5 yields a predicted standard state heat of formation for NF5(g) of ΔH0f (0 K)=+25.1 kJ/mol. Our results suggest that synthesis of NF5 and other hypervalent compounds of first row atoms may be possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The measurement of transient temperatures less than 1000 K for samples in laser-heated diamond anvil cells remains a challenge. Here we present the design and performance characteristics of a multi-channel pyrometer that works in the near-infrared from 1200 to 2000 nm. It has a relatively small footprint, is portable, requires only low voltage power supplies, and can report temperatures down to 800 K on the millisecond scale or faster. A single data point without averaging can be acquired in 14 µs (sampling rate of 7 kilosamples per second). In conjunction with a diamond anvil cell, the system delivers accurate and rapid measurements down to ∼830 K. The pyrometer has been successfully interfaced several times with the combined x-ray diffraction and laser heating system at the High Pressure Collaborative Access Team at the Advanced Photon Source at Argonne National Laboratories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The utility ofmarine protected areas (MPAs) as a means of protecting exploited species and conserving biodiversity within MPA boundaries is supported by strong empirical evidence. However, the potential contribution of MPAs to fished populations beyond their boundaries is still highly controversial; empirical measures are scarce and modelling studies have produced a range of predictions, including both positive and negative effects. Using a combination of genetic parentage and relatedness analysis, we measured larval subsidies to local fisheries replenishment for Australasian snapper (Chrysophrys auratus: Sparidae) from a small (5.2 km2), well-established, temperate, coastal MPA in northern NewZealand. Adult snapper within the MPA contributed an estimated 10.6% (95% CI: 5.5-18.1%) of newly settled juveniles to surrounding areas (approx. 400 km2), with no decreasing trend in contributions up to 40 km away. Biophysical modelling of larval dispersal matched experimental data, showing larvae produced inside the MPA dispersed over a comparable distance. These results demonstrate that temperate MPAs have the potential to provide recruitment subsidies at magnitudes and spatial scales relevant to fisheriesmanagement. The validated biophysical model provides a cost-efficient opportunity to generalize these findings to other locations and climate conditions, and potentially informs the design of MPA networks for enhancing fisheries management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents research on the reliability of ear measurements for pinnaplasty patients. Research shows the typical use of ear measurements in pinnaplasty suitability determination, the measurement techniques like Helix-mastoid distance and Auriculocephalic angle, and the inter-rater reliability of the measurements.

The electronic structure of H+6 has been studied by ab initio calculations. It is found that there exist two stable structures, of Cs and D2d symmetries. Post-SCF calculations suggest that the ordering of these states is determined by electron correlation, with the D2d structure lying slightly lower than the Cs structure. It is suggested that the D2d structure is formed in the recent experiments of Kirchner and Bowers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Comparison of pinnaplasty techniques is difficult due to variation in the reporting of outcomes. We aimed to develop a family-centred outcome questionnaire for use after pinnaplasty and assess it for reliability and validity. Design Cross-sectional study. Setting Tertiary referral paediatric otolaryngology centre. Participants 20 prospective and 71 retrospective pinnaplasty patients and their parent(s). Methods The Post-Operative Pinnaplasty Questionnaire (POPQ) was developed after semi-structured interview with families of children undergoing pinnaplasty. Children aged 4-16 were recruited. Three different ear measurements (auriculocephalic angle, helix-mastoid distance and Walker's ratio) were performed pre-operatively. Children were reviewed 3 months post-operatively and asked to complete a POPQ and Glasgow Children's Benefit Inventory with their parent(s). Ear measurements were repeated and data collected on surgical technique and complications. 200 retrospective pinnaplasty patients were posted a POPQ and Glasgow Children's Benefit Inventory and data collected on surgical technique, complication rate and Walker's angle. Main outcomes measures Validity and reliability of the POPQ. Results Age range was 4-16 (median 12). POPQ correlated well with Glasgow Children's Benefit Inventory (Spearman's rho = 0.776, P < 0.001). There was no correlation of POPQ scores with age, sex, complication or surgical technique. POPQ score was not associated with severe prominence pre-op nor change or degree of prominence post-op. POPQ displayed good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha 0.850) and ease-of-use scores. Conclusions We have developed a family-focused outcome tool for pinnaplasty that displays good face validity, internal consistency and correlation with health-related quality of life and that is simple and easy to use. No correlation was seen with more traditional measures of outcome such as complications or ear measurements. Further refinement and testing of validity and reliability on a larger sample is planned. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To calculate the financial burden of recurrent respiratory papilloma. This study is UK-based, where up until now no financial estimates have been calculated for this group of patients. Background: Recurrent respiratory papilloma is caused by the human papilloma virus (subtypes 6 and 11). The burden for the patient and the healthcare system is significant given the recurrent nature of the disease. Methods: Data were collected, using a questionnaire completed during routine clinical follow up, from a single centre managing recurrent respiratory papilloma in Glasgow, Scotland. Cost information was sourced from the Scottish Government's Information Services Division. Results: Fourteen patients with active recurrent respiratory papilloma between 2013 and 2014 were identified. The direct measurable cost to NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde amounted to £107 478. Conclusion: Recurrent respiratory papilloma is a benign condition, but the financial implications of diagnosis are significant. Recurrent respiratory papilloma has a natural history of relapse and remission, and patients may require healthcare input over a period of several years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To evaluate diagnostic performance of the emotional domain of the Voi SS questionnaire compared with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale ( HADS). Design Cross-sectional questionnaire study. Setting Tertiary referral centre voice clinic. Participants 210 consecutive voice clinic patients. Main outcome measures Screening with Voi SS and HADS questionnaires. Paired comparison, correlation, multinomial logistic regression and receiver-operating characteristic ( ROC) curve analysis. Results A total of 177 returned complete data sets. Ninety-six patients (54.2%) had functional dysphonia, and 81 (45.8%) had organic laryngeal disorders. Mean total Voi SS score = 39.7/120 (standard deviation ( sd) 22.2). Mean emotional Voi SS subscale = 7.6/22 ( sd 7.5). Mean HADS anxiety = 6.5/21 ( sd 5.2) and depression mean = 7.1/21 ( sd 4.8). There were 35 (20%) borderline anxiety and/or depression scores and 30 (17%) scores considered positive for 'caseness'. There was strong correlation between emotional Voi SS and HADS anxiety (Spearman's Rho = 0.68, P < 0.001) and HADS depression (Spearman's Rho = 0.62, P < 0.001). ROC curve analysis exhibited significant association between emotional Voi SS and HADS 'caseness' (area under curve = 0.88). In addition, functional dysphonia patients had lower mean Voi SS and HADS scores than patients with identifiable laryngeal abnormalities. Conclusion The Voi SS emotional subscale strongly correlates with HADS anxiety and depression scores and could be used as a measure of psychological distress. This could allow targeted psychological strategies, without additional psychometric questionnaires. Functional dysphonia has less association with psychological distress than certain organic laryngological disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the integra which has established its role in management of burn injuries and mentions reconstruction of non-vascularised wounds resulting from tumour resection in the skull base. Topics discussed include female patient with recurrent supraglottic carcinoma treated with radiotherapy, dermal layer of collagen and glycosaminoglycan consisted by integra, and reconstruction in head and neck surgery.

The edge-on galaxy NGC 891 was probed using near-infrared (NIR) imaging polarimetry in the H band (1.6 μm) with the Mimir instrument on the 1.8 m Perkins Telescope. Polarization was detected with a signal-to-noise ratio greater than three out to a surface brightness of 18.8 mag arcsec–2. The unweighted average and dispersion in polarization percentage (P) across the full disk were 0.7% and 0.3%, respectively, and the same quantities for polarization position angle (P.A.) were 12° and 19°, respectively. At least one polarization null point, where P falls nearly to zero, was detected in the northeast disk but not the southwest disk. Several other asymmetries in P between the northern and southern disk were found and may be related to spiral structure. Profiles of P and P.A. along the minor axis of NGC 891 suggest a transition from magnetic (B) field tracing dichroic polarization near the disk mid-plane to scattering dominated polarization off the disk mid-plane. A comparison between NIR P.A. and radio (3.6 cm) synchrotron polarization P.A. values revealed similar B-field orientations in the central-northeast region, which suggests that the hot plasma and cold, star-forming interstellar medium may share a common B-field. Disk-perpendicular polarizations previously seen at optical wavelengths are likely caused by scattered light from the bright galaxy center and are unlikely to be tracing poloidal B-fields in the outer disk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Advance care planning (ACP) provides patients with the ability to make their decisions known about how they would like to be treated if they lose capacity. Medical practitioners have a key role to play in providing information on ACP to their patients. This research explores their knowledge and attitudes to advance care planning and how this affects their practice. Aim The objective of this study is to assess the NSW medical practitioners' knowledge and self-reported practice of ACP. Methods A postal survey of a random sample of 650 general practitioners plus 350 medical specialists from specialties most often involved in end-of-life decisions was conducted. Respondents' work location post codes were subsequently used to assign respondents to one of the eight NSW Area Health Services. The main outcome measures were medical practitioners' knowledge of and practice pertaining to ACP. Results Thirty-four per cent of specialists ( n = 110) and 24% of general practitioners ( n = 150) responded; the majority of respondents had heard of all ACP options. However, respondents' understanding of the uses and legal requirements of the relevant ACP options vary widely. Conclusions Respect for patient wishes expressed in advance directives is reassuringly high. The findings suggest significant misunderstanding by medical practitioners of terminologies and systems around substitute decision-making for incompetent persons. Further education and standardisation of terminologies and systems across different jurisdictions would assist in addressing these issues. Low response rate, relating to only one legal jurisdiction, means results may not be generalisable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Swim bladder extensions and hearing ability were examined in the temperate reef fish Polyprion oxygeneios (hapuka). Using the auditory evoked potential (AEP) technique, hearing thresholds were determined in four age-classes of hapuka, from larvae to juveniles. The youngest age-class had poor hearing abilities, with lowest thresholds of 132 dB re 1 μPa, and a narrow auditory bandwidth (100-800 Hz). Hearing ability improved significantly throughout the remainder of their first year, including decreases in thresholds of up to 27 dB, and an increase in auditory bandwidth (up to 1,000 Hz). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to investigate structural mechanisms that may account for this ontogenetic improvement in hearing. These showed rostral extensions of the swim bladder developing early in the juvenile stage, and extending with increasing age closer to the otic capsule. It is suggested that this indirect connection between the swim bladder and the otic capsule could impart pressure sensitivity closer to the inner ear, accounting for the increase in sensitivity seen during development, although further investigation of older fish is required for conclusive evidence. The improvement in hearing ability in hapuka could be potentially related to a unique life history of extended pelagic durations up to 4 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mobility and migration patterns of groups and individuals have long been a topic of interest to archaeologists, used for broad explanatory models of cultural change as well as illustrations of historical particularism. The 14th century AD was a tumultuous period of history in Britain, with severely erratic weather patterns, the Great Famine of 1315-1322, the Scottish Wars of Independence, and the Hundred Years' War providing additional migration pressures to the ordinary economic issues drawing individuals to their capital under more stable conditions. East Smithfield Black Death Cemetery (Royal Mint) had a documented use period of only 2 years (AD 1348-1350), providing a precise historical context (∼50 years) for data. Adults ( n = 30) from the East Smithfield site were sampled for strontium and oxygen stable isotope analyses of tooth enamel. Five individuals were demonstrated to be statistical outliers through the combined strontium and oxygen isotope data. Potential origins for migrants ranged from London's surrounding hinterlands to distant portions of northern and western Britain. Historic food sourcing practices for London were found to be an important factor for consideration in a broader than expected 87Sr/86Sr range reflected in a comparison of enamel samples from three London datasets. The pooled dataset demonstrated a high level of consistency between site data, divergent from the geologically predicted range. We argue that this supports the premise that isotope data in human populations must be approached as a complex interaction between behavior and environment and thus should be interpreted cautiously with the aid of alternate lines of evidence. Am J Phys Anthropol, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background:Sir Morell Mackenzie (1837–1892), the pre-eminent early laryngologist in the UK, is nowadays perhaps better remembered for his role in the management of the Crown Prince of Germany in 1887, than for his major contribution to the development of laryngology as a specialty. In this article we focus upon his text The Pharmacopoeia of the Hospital for Diseases of the Throat (fourth edition), and attempt a comparison of Victorian ENT treatments with today's management of ENT diseases.Treatments:Some of these Victorian treatments bear a resemblance to modern day practices. Others have not withstood the test of time, in particular: silver nitrate sticks for syphilitic ulcers of the larynx (not epistaxis); nebulised sulphuric acid, which was used as a stimulant; nasal bougies, including scotch pine and lead acetate; chloroform vapour for the treatment of hay fever; ‘London paste’, a non-surgical treatment for the reduction of the tonsils, (which was perhaps the Victorian equivalent of coblation); and zinc chloride darts, which were plunged into intractable goitres.Conclusion:Some of these remedies bear no resemblance to today's evidence-based practices, while other treatments (such as silver nitrate) are still in common use. In Victorian times, however, Mackenzie's books were widely read throughout Europe and were the standard references for a specialty in its infancy. The Pharmacopoeia was published in 1872, and major advances in medicine have been made since then. We have no way of knowing which treatments in today's British National Formulary will still be in use in 140 years. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The nocturnal southern bastard cod Pseudophycis barbata was found to utilize chemo- and mechanosensory systems when hunting for prey under low light conditions. The sensory system used depended on whether prey produced a hydrodynamic signal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the movement patterns of yellow moray eels Gymnothorax prasinus using acoustic telemetry. Gymnothorax prasinus were found to use multiple sites within a localized area or home range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An experiment was conducted using 200 beef carcasses to evaluate the effects of feeding zilpaterol hydrochloride with or without monensin and tylosin on carcass cutability and meat sensory variables. The experiment was conducted using a randomized complete block design with treatments arranged as a 2 (no zilpaterol vs. zilpaterol) × 2 (monensin and tylosin withdrawn vs. monensin and tylosin fed) factorial. Cattle (n = 3,757) were fed zilpaterol hydrochloride, a β2-adrenergic agonist, for 30 d at the end of the finishing period and withdrawn from zilpaterol hydrochloride for the last 5 d on feed. Five carcasses (weighillg between 305 and 421 kg and free of slaughter defects) were selected from each of 40 feedlot treatment pens. Strip loins from the left sides were collected for sensory analysis and Warner-Bratzler shear force (WBSF) testing, and the rib was collected for 9th, 10th, 11th-rib dissections. A subsample of 3 carcass right sides per pen was fabricated into boneless subprimals according to Institutional Meat Purchase Specifications. Carcasses from zilpaterol-fed steers had greater (P ≤ 0.008) subprimal yields of shoulder clod, chuck tender, knuckle, top round, outside round, eye of the round, strip loin, top sirloin butt, bottom sirloin butt ball tip, full tenderloin, and flank steak than steers not fed zilpaterol. In addition, zilpaterol hydrochloride treatment decreased (P = 0.002) trimmable fat. Zilpaterol hydrochloride increased (P < 0.006) estimated carcass protein and moisture and decreased (P ≤ 0.007) estimated carcass and LM fat percentage. For LM WBSF there was a zilpaterol hydrochloride x postmortem aging interaction (P < 0.01). The β2-adrenergic agonist increased (P = 0.001) LM WBSF at 7, 14, and 21 d postmortem and decreased (P < 0.001) trained sensory-panel juiciness, tenderness, and flavor intensity of LM steaks aged for 14 d. A consumer sensory panel also found LM steaks from zilpaterol-fed steers were (P = 0.03) less tender than steaks from steers not fed zilpaterol; however, tenderness acceptability and overall acceptability were not affected (P ≥ 0.26). For the main effect of monensin and tylosin, withdrawal of monensin and tylosin de- creased (P = 0.01) consumer juiciness scores, although other yield and compositional measurements were not affected (P ≥ 0.07). Zilpaterol is a strong repartitioning agent that increases meat yield through increased protein and decreased fat deposition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Experiments were conducted at 3 US locations (California, Idaho, and Texas) to determine the effects of dietary zilpaterol hydrochloride and duration of zilpaterol feeding on carcass composition and beef palatability. At each site, 160 steers and 160 heifers were stratified within sex by initial BW (study d-1) and assigned randomly within BW strata to 1 of 4 treatments in a randomized complete block design (4 blocks/treatment for each sex). The 4 treatments were arranged in a 2 (no zilpaterol vs. zilpaterol) × 2 (20- or 40-d duration of zilpaterol feeding) factorial. When included in the diet, zilpaterol was supplemented at 8.3 mg/kg (DM basis). Each pen consisted of 10 animals. After slaughter 2 carcasses per pen (n 64 per trial site) were selected. The entire right side of the selected carcasses was collected for dissection and chemical analysis of the soft tissue. Additionally, the left strip loin was collected for Warner-Bratzler shear force determinations and aged to 28 d postmortem. Sensory analysis was conducted on the Idaho trial site samples only. All data were pooled for analyses. Feeding zilpaterol hydrochloride increased carcass muscle deposition (P < 0.01) of both steer and heifer carcasses. However, carcass percentage fat of steers and heifers was not affected (P> 0.11) by the zilpaterol treatment. In heifer carcasses, carcass moisture percentage was in- creased (P = 0.04) and bone percentage was decreased (P = 0.02), whereas in steer carcasses, carcass moisture and bone percentage were not affected (P> 0.10). In heifer carcasses, carcass ash percentage was not affected (P = 0.61) by zilpaterol, whereas in steer carcasses, carcass ash percentage tended (P = 0.07) to be increased. The protein-to-bone ratio was increased (P < 0.00 1) by zilpaterol hydrochloride treatment in both steers and heifers, whereas the protein-to-fat ratio was not affected (P = 0.10). Cooking loss of the LM was not affected (P = 0.41) by zilpaterol treatment of steers or heifers. However, LM Warner-Bratzler shear force was increased (P = 0.003) on average (3.3 vs. 4.0 kg) due to zilpaterol hydrochloride treatment of both steers and heifers. In both steers and heifers, LM sensory panel scores of overall juiciness (6.2 vs. 6.0), tenderness (6.2 vs. 6.0), and flavor intensity (6.2 vs. 6.0) tended (P = 0.06) to be decreased in cattle supplemented with zilpaterol. Zilpaterol hydrochloride is a repartitioning agent that seems to affect carcass composition primarily through protein deposition. However, zilpaterol treatment can adversely affect tenderness and other palatability traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Experiments were conducted at 3 US locations (CA, ID, and TX) to determine the effects of dietary zilpaterol hydrochloride (Zilmax, Intervet Inc., Millsboro, DE) and duration of zilpaterol feeding on performance and carcass merit of finishing steers and heifers. At each site, 160 steers and 160 heifers were stratified within sex by initial BW (study d -1) and as- signed randomly within BW strata to 1 of 4 treatments in a randomized complete block design (4 blocks/treat- ment for each sex). The 4 treatments were arranged in a 2 (no zilpaterol vs. zilpaterol) × 2 (20 or 40 d duration of zilpaterol feeding) factorial arrangement of treatments. When included in the diet, zilpaterol was supplemented at 8.3 mg/kg of DM. Each pen consisted of 10 animals. Each animal was individually weighed unshrunk on d 1, 21 or 41, and 66 of the experiment. Following d 66, cattle were slaughtered and carcass data collected. Feeding zilpaterol increased (P < 0.01) final BW of steers and heifers by 11.6 and 6.7 kg, re-spectively. In addition, feeding zilpaterol hydrochloride increased (P ≤0.001) ADG 36 and 18%, and increased (P < 0.001) G:F 28 and 21% for steers and heifers, re-spectively. For heifers, DM1 was decreased (P < 0.001) 6.2% when zilpaterol was fed, whereas ill steers DM1 tended (P = 0.09) to be decreased 2%. For steers and heifers, feeding zilpaterol increased (P < 0.001) HCW 16.4 and 12.1 kg, dressing percentage 1.5 percentage units for each sex, and LM area 8.23 and 6.37 cm2, respectively. Twelfth-rib fat (P ≤ 0.12) and KPH (P ≥ 0.70) were not affected by feeding zilpaterol to steers or heifers. Feeding zilpaterol decreased (i.e., improved; P = 0.02) calculated yield grade of steer and heifer carcasses. Marbling score (P = 0.002) and quality grade (P = 0.002) were decreased when zilpaterol hydrochloride was fed to steers, and the decrease in marbling score and quality grade tended to be greater when zilpaterol was fed for 40 compared with 20 d (zilpaterol x dura- tion interaction, P = 0.07). For heifers, marbling score tended (P = 0.07) to be decreased and quality grade was decreased (P = 0.05) when zilpaterol hydrochloride was fed. In general, it appears from these data that zilpaterol hydrochloride fed for 20 to 40 d at the end of the finishing period enhances growth performance and carcass muscle deposition for steers and heifers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A feedlot experiment was conducted under commercial conditions in the Texas Panhandle using 3,757 feedlot steers (average of 94 steers/pen) to evaluate the effects of feeding zilpaterol hydrochloride with or without monensin and tylosin on feedlot performance and carcass characteristics. The experiment was conducted using a randomized complete block design. Treatments were arranged as a 2 (no zilpaterol vs. zilpaterol) x 2 (monensin and tylosin withdrawn vs. monensin and tylosin fed during the final 35 d on feed) factorial. Steers were fed for a total of 161 to 167 d, and treatments were administered during the final 35 d that cattle were on feed. When included in the diet, zilpaterol, monensin, and tylosin were supplemented at 8.3, 33.1, and 12.2 mg/kg (DM basis), respectively. Zilpaterol was included in the diet for 30 d at the end of the finishing period and withdrawn from the diet for the last 5 or 6 d cattle were on feed. Cattle were harvested and carcass data collected. There were no zilpaterol x monensin/tylosin interactions (P ≥ 0.12) for ADG or C:F. Feeding zilpaterol increased ADG (P < 0.001) by 0.20 kg and G:F (P < 0.001) by 0.029 kg/kg during the last 35 d on feed. Likewise, when feedlot variables were measured throughout the entire 161- to 167-d feeling trial, ADG (3.4%; P < 0.001) and C:F (3.9%; P < 0.001) were increased. Feeding zilpaterol increased (P < 0.001) dressing percent and HCW and decreased (P < 0.001) total liver abscess rate compared with controls. In addition, zilpaterol increased (P < 0.001) LM area by an average of 8.0 cm². There was a zilpaterol x monensin/tylosin interaction (P = 0.03) for marbling score. Zilpaterol decreased (P < 0.001) marbling score regardless of monensin and tylosin treatment, although withdrawal of mortensin and tylosin for 35 d decreased marbling to a greater extent; (31 vs. 17 degrees). Zilpaterol decreased (i.e., improved; P < 0.001) calculated yield grade regardless of monensin arid tylosin treatment, but feeding zilpaterol in combination with the withdrawal of monensin and tylosin for 35 d decreased calculated yield grade to a greater extent (0.49 vs. 0.29) compared with the zilpaterol, monensin, and tylosin combination treatment (zilpaterol x monensin/tylosin interaction, P = 0.03). Results suggest that monensin and tylosin can be withdrawn from the diet during the zilpaterol feeding period (final 35 d on feed) with minimal effect on animal performance, although feeding zilpaterol in combination with monensin and tylosin seemed to moderate effects on carcass quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prescribing of BPH medications increases with patient age. As part of the Urologic Diseases in America (UDA) project, two insurance claims databases were used: CMS 5% Sample (Medicare beneficiaries age >=65) and Optum Clinformatics Data Mart (CDM, privately insured adults <65). [Extracted from the article]

Abstract: Mineral waters in Britain show a wide range of 87Sr/86Sr isotope compositions ranging between 87Sr/86Sr=0.7059 from Carboniferous volcanic rock sources in Dunbartonshire, Scotland to 87Sr/86Sr=0.7207 in the Dalradian aquifer of Aberdeenshire, Scotland. The 87Sr/86Sr composition of the waters shows a general correlation with the aquifer rocks, resulting in the waters from older rocks having a more radiogenic signature than those from younger rocks. This wide range of values means that the Sr isotope composition of mineral water has applications in a number of types of studies. In the modern commercial context, it provides a way of fingerprinting the various mineral waters and hence provides a method for recognising and reducing fraud. From an environmental perspective, it provides the first spatial distribution of bio-available 87Sr/86Sr in Britain that can be used in modern, historical and archaeological studies. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The effect of supplementing diets with various levels of vitamin D3 to provide 0, 0.5, 1, and 5 million IU/(steer·d) for 8 d before slaughter on the mineral content and localization of Ca in LM and muscle fragments was studied during the postmortem aging process. Twelve feedlot steers of three biological types were given access to the four levels of vitamin D for 8 d before slaughter. Differential centrifugation techniques were used to determine the concentrations of minerals relative to protein in different muscle fragments on d 3 and 21 postmortem. Electron microscopy visualization of bound Ca indicated that vitamin D3 mobilized Ca from the sarcoplasmic reticulum and transverse tubule system into the myofibrils. Bound Ca was concentrated near the Z-line at the A-band/I-band juncture within the sarcomere. Supplementing steers with 1 and 5 million IU/(steer·d) of vitamin D3 increased (P<0.05) Ca, P, and Mg concentrations per unit of protein in the cytosol. Soluble cytosolic Ca concentrations were greater (P < 0.05) on d 21 than on d 3 postmortem only when steers were supplemented with 5 million IU/d. Concentrations of Ca, P, and Mg in isolated tissues were increased (P<0.05) in nuclei and myofibrilar proteins by supplementing steers with 1 and 5 million IU/ (steer·d) of vitamin D3. All supplemental vitamin Ds treatments also increased (P<0.001) Mg concentrations in the cytosol, regardless of aging treatment, and increased Mg concentrations (P<0.04) within the mitochondria at d 3 postmortem. Thus, supplementation of feedlot steers with vitamin D3 at levels of 0.5 to 5 million IU/(steer·d) increased Ca concentrations within respiring muscle, resulting in increased bound tissue Ca concentrations. When the respiring muscle was converted to meat, the increased bound tissue Ca resulting from vitamin D3 treatment released Ca concentrations into the cytosol during aging (P<0.05). Results of this study indicate that vitamin Ds supplementation increased total cytosolic Ca, P, and Mg concentrations in meat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The world's demand for food production will increase markedly during the coming years. Meeting this demand will require that we employ all manner of approaches, including the use of biotechnology to produce results that cannot be achieved using traditional methods. This 2-part article reviews ongoing experiences in developing countries where crop biotechnology is being used to enhance the availability and/or nutritional value of local crops. In part 1, strategies that seek to enhance yields of staples and to improve the yields of indigenous nutritious foods were described. In part 2, strategies that seek to enhance the nutrient density of foods are described and strategies that can increase net income to resource-poor farmers in developing countries are demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neuronal morphogenesis, synaptogenesis and synaptic plasticity are fundamental aspects of nervous system development. Much of our current understanding of how each of these processes contributes to the establishment and maintenance of neural circuitry has come from a molecular description of specific classes of key molecules. With regard to synapse assembly and function, a family of membrane-associated guanylate kinase homologs (MAGUKs) have emerged as central organizers of multicomponent protein signaling complexes. In particular MAGUKs appear to play fundamental roles in the transport, anchoring and signaling of specific subclasses of synaptic receptors and ion channels. In this review, we will focus on the role that subfamilies of MAGUKs play during the formation, maintenance and plasticity of the vertebrate central nervous system glutamatergic synapse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The world's demand for food production will increase markedly in the coming years. Meeting this demand will require that we employ all manner of approaches, including the use of biotechnology, to produce results that cannot be achieved using traditional methods. This 2-part article reviews ongoing experiences in developing countries where crop biotechnology is being used to enhance the availability and/or nutritional value of local crops. In part 1, the authors describe strategies that seek to enhance yields of staples and to improve the yields of indigenous nutritious foods. In Part 2 of this article, the authors describe strategies that seek to enhance the nutrient density of foods that can increase net income to resource-poor farmers in developing countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lead concentration and isotope ratio data are presented for the tooth enamel of 77 individuals buried in England and spanning approximately 5000 years from the Neolithic until the 16th century ad. Whereas other tissues may be affected by diagenesis in the burial environment, the Pb concentration of tooth enamel is directly related to childhood exposure. This record is preserved post-mortem and over archaeological time. Tooth enamel Pb concentrations in the prehistoric period appear to be variable within the range 0.04 to ∼0.4 ppm, with occasional higher levels. The Romano-British and medieval periods show a marked increase in Pb exposures with enamel concentrations reaching up to approximately 40 ppm. These exposures would today be associated with industrial pollution. Exposures appear to be highly variable compared with modern people, however, with many medieval individuals having very low enamel Pb concentrations comparable with prehistoric people. Lead isotope data refine this picture. We distinguish between the diverse isotopic ratios we believe to be characteristic of ‘natural’ exposure to Pb—from geological sources via the diet—and the much narrower isotopic range characteristic of exposure to technological Pb from ore sources. Taken together the data suggest that the maximum concentrations associated with ‘non-technological’ exposure at any period are ∼0.5–1.0 ppm, similar to that reported for modern people in England. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Heterosexual transmission of HIV is a growing problem for women, but many women do not know how their partners acquired HIV. We described a group of HIV-infected men and women, and focused on: (1) sexual identity and bisexual behaviour in men, and (2) the proportion of women who acknowledged having a bisexual male partner. This study examined HIV-infected persons who participated in a cross-sectional interview project from January 1995 through July 2000; 5,156 men who have sex with men (MSM), and 3,139 women. The proportion of MSM who reported having sex with women (MSM/MSW) varied by race: 34% of black MSM, 26% of Hispanic MSM, and 13% of white MSM. While 14% of white women acknowledged having a bisexual partner, only 6% of black and 6% of Hispanic women reported having a bisexual partner. Most behaviourally bisexual men identified as either bisexual (59%) or homosexual (26%). Among MSM/MSW, 30% had more female partners than male partners, while only 10% had more male partners than female partners. These data suggest that bisexual activity is relatively common among black and Hispanic HIV-infected MSM, few identify as heterosexual, and their female partners may not know of their bisexual activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The detection of food odour by the freshwater eels, Anguilla australis and Anguilla dieffenbachii released a behavioural response to flow that resulted in direct upstream movement toward the odour source. Changes in various orientation parameters were observed as eels neared the source. Eels had substantially lower swimming velocities and considerably more variable heading and course angles close to the odour source (≤0·9 m) than further away (>0·9 m). Observed changes in orientation parameters were primarily due to changes in the behaviour of a searcher following odour loss. Cross-stream movements were initiated when the eel moved beyond the lateral margins of the odour plume. The behavioural switch from odour-conditioned rheotaxis to cross-stream casting following odour loss occurred more frequently close to the odour source where the plume was most narrow. Odour-conditioned rheotaxis enables the searcher to move quickly and efficiently toward the odour source without the need to extract directional information from a highly intermittent and complex chemical signal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Focuses on the management of pain following day surgery. Importance of the timely administration of analgesia and continued support for patients; Description of a computer-based system by day surgery to highlight patients for follow up.

Although eliminating lead from the environment is the most effective way to prevent lead poisoning, outreach and education also must be addressed. This study reports a consensus summary of lead-poisoning prevention topics and reading levels derived from state brochures. This information may be useful in the evaluation and design of future lead prevention brochures. A point system was used to assess the readability and topic content of 20 brochures from 11 states. Only half of the brochures were written at the targeted grade level. Frequently covered topics were wash hands and face, provide foods that contain good sources of key nutrients, and use damp cleaning methods when dusting and mopping. The findings about topics and reading levels can be used throughout the development of lead-hazard prevention brochures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To examine the differences in physician satisfaction associated with open- versus closed-model practice settings and to evaluate changes in physician satisfaction between 1986 and 1997. Open-model practices refer to those in which physicians accept patients from multiple health plans and insurers (i.e., do not have an exclusive arrangement with any single health plan). Closed-model practices refer to those wherein physicians have an exclusive relationship with a single health plan (i.e., staff- or group-model HMO).Design: Two cross-sectional surveys of physicians; one conducted in 1986 (Medical Outcomes Study) and one conducted in 1997 (Study of Primary Care Performance in Massachusetts).Setting: Primary care practices in Massachusetts.Participants: General internists and family practitioners in Massachusetts.Measurements: Seven measures of physician satisfaction, including satisfaction with quality of care, the potential to achieve professional goals, time spent with individual patients, total earnings from practice, degree of personal autonomy, leisure time, and incentives for high quality.Results: Physicians in open- versus closed-model practices differed significantly in several aspects of their professional satisfaction. In 1997, open-model physicians were less satisfied than closed-model physicians with their total earnings, leisure time, and incentives for high quality. Open-model physicians reported significantly more difficulty with authorization procedures and reported more denials for care. Overall, physicians in 1997 were less satisfied in every aspect of their professional life than 1986 physicians. Differences were significant in three areas: time spent with individual patients, autonomy, and leisure time (P < or =.05). Among open-model physicians, satisfaction with autonomy and time with individual patients were significantly lower in 1997 than 1986 (P < or =.01). Among closed-model physicians, satisfaction with total earnings and with potential to achieve professional goals were significantly lower in 1997 than in 1986 (P < or =.01).Conclusions: This study finds that the state of physician satisfaction in Massachusetts is extremely low, with the majority of physicians dissatisfied with the amount of time they have with individual patients, their leisure time, and their incentives for high quality. Satisfaction with most areas of practice declined significantly between 1986 and 1997. Open-model physicians were less satisfied than closed-model physicians in most aspects of practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to compare the pragmatic performance of students from two adolescent groups -- students receiving English as a second language (ESL) instruction versus bilingual students receiving speech-language (BSL) therapy. A pragmatics screening scale (i.e., the Adolescent Pragmatics Screening Scale, Brice, 1992a) was used to measure pragmatic performance. The findings of this study indicated that the BSL students differed from the ESL students in expressing themselves, establishing greetings, initiating and maintaining conversations, listening to a speaker, and cueing the listener regarding topic changes. Both groups of students had difficulties regulating others through language. Thus, even language-intact students may have some difficulty acquiring the Euro-American pragmatic feature of language. Academic failure and possible school dropout may result for the BSL students as a result of their difficulties. Implications of this study for the speech-language pathologist and other school professionals are given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to evaluate satisfaction with, and recollection of, the consent process, we sent a postal questionnaire to 204 patients who had taken part in one of six clinical trials. Three trials were multicentre commercial studies and three were ‘in house’. The readability of the different patient information sheets was compared. Seventy-seven per cent of patients responded, of whom 82% remembered having an information sheet. Most (99%) thought this was easy to read and understand. Five patients claimed that they had felt pressurised to take part in the trials. Nearly all patients (97%) realised that participation was voluntary and that other treatment would not be affected; 83% knew they could have changed their minds. There were no differences in the response patterns between the patients taking part in the different trials although the patient information sheets produced by pharmaceutical companies were longer and more complex than the ‘in hospital’ variety. We conclude that increasing the amount and complexity of information does not alter patient satisfaction. Taken overall, patients were content with the way they were approached when asked for consent for clinical trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explains the need to improve research methods in studies of how Third World refugees cope with resettlement in the First World. Research on refugee adjustment (e.g., psychological and family dynamics) and adaptation (e.g., sociocultural-economic measures) indicates that these dependent variables are not unidimensional or homogeneous. Rather, adjustment and adaptation may have several components which each require unique sets of causal variables and contributory factors to be identified. Subjective aspects of adjustment and adaptation are important and can sometimes have opposite effects on objective measures of adjustment and adaptation. Conflicting findings in the literature suggest interaction effects among predictor variables, which are thus not "independent" variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]