cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Modeling and measurement of nonlinear dynamic behavior in piezoelectric ceramics with application to 1-3 composites

The nonlinear vibratory behavior of a 1-3 piezoceramic composite is characterized theoretically and experimentally. The developed theoretical model for the electroelastic behavior of the 1-3 composite follows conventional assumptions made by prior investigators but includes nonlinear terms to account for hysteresis in the embedded PZT phase. Experimental measurements of the quasistatic and dynamic mechanical response of the 1-3 with embedded PZT-4 or PZT-5H phases to harmonic electrical excitation over a range of excitation frequencies and two different mechanical loading conditions quantify the nature and level of nonlinearity and illustrate its dependence on the type of PZT material and the mechanical coupling conditions of the 1-3 to its surroundings. Good agreement exists between theoretical predictions and experimental measurements.
Use of ultrasound in 187 infants with suspected infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis.

Summary The diagnostic efficacy of ultrasound (US) in the diagnosis of infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis (IHPS) was evaluated, with particular attention paid to whether prematurity, age or weight correlate significantly to the sonographic measurements. The medical records of 187 infants with suspected IHPS were reviewed retrospectively. Eighty-seven had an US examination with details of the pylorus. Fifty-nine of these gave a positive diagnosis. The US criteria for a positive diagnosis were pyloric muscle thickness (PMT) ≥3 mm and pyloric muscle length (PML) ≥17 mm. The mean overall PMT was 4.14 mm and mean overall PML was 18.99 mm. Premature infants had a lower mean PML (17.8 mm) than the term infants (PML mean 19.3 mm); however, this was not significant (t-value 1.92, P = 0.062). The sensitivity and specificity of PMT was 91 and 85%, respectively, and of PML 76 and 85%, respectively. The ability of US to diagnose IHPS using our criteria was significant (t-value, PMT 14.93 and PML 6.89; P < 0.0001). There was no significant correlation between age, weight or prematurity and a sonographic diagnosis of IHPS (Pearson’s coefficient <0.3). Therefore, the same US criteria should apply irrespective of prematurity, age or weight. Borderline PMT and PML measurements necessitate repeat US or alternative imaging.
Techniques for seismic delineation of complex structure; a case history

Techniques for exploring in structurally complex areas were derived from recording and interpreting a single seismic line across the thrust‐faulted west flank of the Casper Arch. Line 306 was recorded to delineate a suspected subthrust prospect. The line was oriented along true dip based on the attitude of outcropping beds. We used short arrays and high‐fold stack, resulting in good data quality, especially in imaging of steep dips from the hanging wall. A two‐dimensional depth model of the structure was constructed. Outcrop dips constrained the interpretation and helped model the hangingwall. A correct model was confirmed when its synthetic time response (time model) matched the real reflections of a near‐offset section. Key to this match was accurate delineation of the hangingwall, which was confirmed when the model’s time response from the subthrust beds matched the static shifts of these same reflections on the real data. A perfect depth model was not achieved, however, due to constraints of the model...
Modulation of WGA binding sites on marrow sinus endothelium in state of stimulated erythropoiesis: a possible mechanism regulating the rate of cell egress

To study the regulation of cellular and molecular traffic across the marrow—blood barrier, rat marrow endothelial surface was incubated with ferritin-conjugated concanavalin A, wheat germ agglutinin (WGA), recinus communis agglutinin I, and phytohemagglutinin. Normal animals were compared with those after erythropoietic stimulation (phenylhydrazine-induced hemolysis, phlebotomy). A selective and significant reduction in the density of WGA receptors, but not other lectins was noted congruent to the degree of reticulocytosis. Neuraminidase treatment also reduced WGA binding sites and the surface negative charge as detected by polycationic ferritin (PCF). Thus, the reduction in WGA binding sites, may reflect a decrease in the density of membrane sialic acid, rendering the endothelial surface charge less negative and providing an electrostatic attraction for the negatively charged surface of reticulocytes. The findings may also be explained by an increase in the frequency of WGA-excluding fenestrae in the endothelium. These areas, lacking sialic acid, may provide unstable areas in the membrane suitable for the passage of cells and molecules in both directions. It is concluded that, by modulating the density of sialic acid residues, the endothelium may regulate the traffic of cells and molecules across the marrow—blood barrier.
Causes of isolated aortic insufficiency in an urban population in the 1990s a review of 56 surgical pathology cases.

Abstract Until recently, the cause of isolated aortic insufficiency (AI) was usually thought to be inflammatory or rheumatic in most cases. However, at our institution we have noted a high prevalence of myxomatous degeneration (MD) in aortic valves removed for AI. In this study we report anatomic observations on valves from 56 consecutive patients with isolated AI undergoing aortic valve replacement surgery. Fifty-six consecutive aortic valves removed at our institution from 1994 to 1996 for isolated AI and/or aortic aneurysm were reviewed. Anatomic features were compared with clinical history and echocardiographic data. The anatomic results were also compared to 22 age-matched control aortic valves obtained at autopsy. In 13/56 cases (23%), a specific valvular cause of AI was determined (infectious endocarditis, seven cases; chronic rheumatic disease, four cases; congenital bicuspid valve, two cases). Of the remaining (idiopathic) 43 cases, 18 (42%) had severe isolated MD defined as >50% expansion of the spongiosa and disruption of the fibrosa by the deposition of acid mucopolysaccharides in the absence of severe calcification, fibrosis, or other pathologic findings. Only 1/22 aortic valves from the autopsy controls had severe MD. Eighteen of the 56 patients also had a clinical history of aortic dilatation/aneurysm of which 12 were confirmed to be dilated by echocardiographic criteria. Of these 12, five (42%) had MD of the aortic valve only, three (25%) had both MD and cystic medial degeneration (CMD) of the aorta, two (17%) had CMD of the aorta only, and two (17%) had no specific diagnosis. Isolated MD of the aortic valve is the most common cause of isolated AI in our patient population. Furthermore, in a subset of non-Marfan’s patients with both AI and dilatation of the aortic root/aortic aneurysm the incidence of MD is even higher (67%). These results suggest that there is overlap between MD and CMD in non-Marfan’s patients and that both entities may be part of a spectrum of a generalized connective tissue disorder.
Super)conformal Symmetry Breaking

We argue that the only consistent way to break conformal invariance in a quantum theory of gravity is spontaneously in a finite locally conformal supersymmetric theory. This generically occurs whenever scalar fields are present. Covariant surface-integral expressions for the supercharge and four-momentum in terms of asymptotically constant spinor fields are derived. These are used to discuss stability and other aspects of the theory.
Double-balloon enteroscopy and outcomes in patients older than 80

Background: double-balloon enteroscopy (DBE) is becoming more commonly used for investigation of small bowel pathology. Currently, there are limited data to describe its safety and efficacy in the population over age 65. Aim: to investigate the indications, findings and outcomes of DBE performed in patients older than 80, as well as the correlation between DBE and prior capsule endoscopy (CE) findings. Methods: we retrospectively reviewed our large DBE database, including procedures from January 2006 to September 2012. Patients aged 80 or older at the time of DBE were included in the study. The indications, findings, outcomes and diagnostic yield of DBE were calculated by frequency analysis. Results: two hundred and fifteen DBEs were performed in 130 patients aged 80 or older. The mean age was 83.6 ± 3.03 years (range: 80–94). Twelve patients (9.2%) were assigned an American Society of Anaesthesiologists score of II prior to procedure, 102 patients (78.4%) were assigned a score of III and 16 patients (12.3%) were given a score of IV. The most common indication for DBE was obscure gastrointestinal bleeding (N= 204, 94.9%). One hundred and fourteen patients (87.7%) underwent CE prior to DBE, and correlation between findings of CE and DBE occurred in 74.6% of these patients. The overall diagnostic yield of DBE was 77.2% (N= 166). There were no immediate post-procedural complications or failed procedures. Conclusion: DBE is a safe and effective technique for investigation of the small bowel in patients aged 80 and older. Age alone should not be a contraindication to performing DBE when clinically indicated.
Conversion of Glucuronic Acid Glycosides to Novel Bicyclic β-Lactams

Methodology for the conversion of glucuronic acid glycosides to novel bicyclic β-lactams is reported. Using this strategy, we prepared two novel templates suitable for use in combinatorial chemistry strategies for the construction of a number of interesting β-lactam motifs. Key features of this strategy include a diastereoselective Ferrier reaction of a glucuronic acid glucal, selective β-lactam ring formation using a cyclic allylic alcohol, and a chemoselective benzylic oxidation.
Postoperative vasospasm after antegrade mesenteric revascularization: A report of three cases

Vascular reconstruction for chronic intestinal ischemia can be accomplished by endarterectomy or aortomesenteric bypass. In our practice, antegrade bypasses from the supraceliac aorta to the celiac axis and superior mesenteric artery are currently the most frequently used techniques. Such reconstructions often use multiple or bifurcated large diameter vascular prostheses and have demonstrated excellent long-term patency. Despite these salutory results, we have noted an unusual perioperative response in three of these patients, which is the subject of this report. All three patients underwent uncomplicated elective mesenteric revascularization with grafts (diameter greater than or equal to 6 mm) originating in the supraceliac aorta. Indications for operation included (1) history of postprandial pain, (2) documentation of weight loss, and (3) angiographic evidence of advanced atherosclerotic disease with appropriate collateral development. Episodes of abdominal pain occurred 5 to 20 days after operation when normal food intake was reinstituted. In two patients immediate angiograms revealed patent grafts with diffuse mesenteric vasospasm. Treatment with intravenous hyperalimentation and nifedipine for 10 days resulted in complete resolution of symptoms. In the third patient, symptoms were totally relieved by temporary reduction in oral intake and administration of nifedipine. A later angiogram revealed a patent graft. All patients have remained asymptomatic and regained normal weight. This pattern of postrevascularization pain has not been seen in our patients undergoing revascularization with small (i.e., venous) conduits originating in the infrarenal aorta. The cause appears to be a heightened myogenic response of a "protected" vascular bed when suddenly exposed to the high perfusion pressure and blood flow of large caliber antegrade conduits. Prophylaxis with calcium channel blockers and use of smaller diameter grafts (5 mm) may avoid this disturbing syndrome.
Factors affecting particle-coarsening kinetics and size distribution

The Lifshitz-Slyozov-Wagner (LSW) theory was developed to model kinetics of precipitate growth from supersaturated solid solutions. The theory corresponds to a zero volume fraction approximation but has been modified for finite volume fractions in order to correspond to real situations. The LSW theory has been applied to study coarsening of grains in liquid-phase sintering and to the coarsening of pores in solid-state sintering systems. There are some additional factors not considered in the LSW theory which can influence the coarsening kinetics depending on the system. It is important, therefore, to incorporate these factors into a coarsening model for better analysis of experimental data. The experimental evidence for the effects of these additional factors is reviewed together with the theoretical modifications made to the basic LSW theory in order to incorporate these factors.
Carbocation Rearrangement in Controlled/Living Isobutylene Polymerization

Isobutylene polymerization was initiated using the cumyl chloride/TiCl4/2,4-dimethylpyridine system ([IB] = 1.0 M, [CumCl] = 2.3 × 10-2 M, [TiCl4] = 0.24 M, [DMP] = 2.4 × 10-3 M). Polymerization kinetics in 60/40 hexane/MeCl at −80 °C showed that an IB conversion of ∼98% was reached in 70 s. The active centers were monitored over time at high conversion, by 1H NMR after quenching with MeOH or allyltrimethylsilane (ATMS), and by GPC after a second addition of IB. Quenching with MeOH or ATMS at times up to 70 s yielded quantitative tert-chloride or allyl chain ends, respectively. For longer periods up to 12 h, MeOH-quenched PIB showed increasing depletion of tert-chloride chain ends of the normal structure (but no appearance of olefin) and ATMS quenching yielded a gradual reduction in allylation to 78% at 12 h. Real-time 1H NMR of an active polymerization mixture also indicated depletion of tert-chloride end groups. GPC results showed that coupling of PIB chains was not occurring and that a second charge of...
Cytotoxic activity of spark‐decomposed sulfur hexafluoride and analysis of cytotoxic contributions of individual spark decomposition products†

Sulfur hexafluoride decomposed by electrical sparks has been found to by cytotoxic to hamster cells when tested in an in vitro cell survival assay, while SF6 shows no cytotoxic activity. Chemical analysis of spark‐decomposed SF6 has identified and quantified the following compounds: SOF2, SO2F2, SF4, SOF4, SiF4, SO2 and HF. Each of these gases, at concentration ranges expected in spark‐decomposed SF6, were tested for cytotoxic activity toward hamster cells. Of the gases showing cytotoxic activity, SO2F2 and SOF4 were similar in activity, as were SOF2 and SF4, while the behavior of SiF4 was different from the rest. None of these individual gases, at concentrations expected in spark‐decomposed SF6, has sufficient cytotoxic activity to account for the cytotoxic effect of spark‐decomposed SF6 observed in our assay system. A four‐component mixture of some of the gases enumerated above (at concentrations overestimating their abundance in spark‐decomposed SF6) was much less cytotoxic than the spark‐decomposed SF...
Weathering of coatings - formulation and evaluation

Article de synthese bibliographique. Detection precoce des degradations et methodes de vieillissement accelere. Degradation oxydante amorcee photochimiquement. Photostabilisation a l'aide d'amines a encombrement sterique. Degradation hydrolytique. Effets de la pigmentation
Proper likelihoods for Bayesian analysis

SUMMARY The validity of posterior probability statements follows from probability calculus when the likelihood is the density of the observations. To investigate other cases, a second, more intuitive definition of validity is introduced, based on coverage of posterior sets. This notion of validity suggests that the likelihood must be the density of a statistic, not necessarily sufficient, for posterior probability statements to be valid. A convenient numerical method is proposed to invalidate the use of certain likelihoods for Bayesian analysis. Integrated, marginal, and conditional likelihoods, derived to avoid nuisance parameters, are also discussed.
Advances in Microwave Technology for the MESSENGER Mission to Mercury

The MESSENGER spacecraft, designed to orbit the planet Mercury, uses the first electronically scanned phased-array antenna for a deep-space telecommunication application. Two lightweight phased arrays, mounted on opposite sides of the spacecraft, provide the high-gain downlink coverage. Medium-gain antennas are used for uplink and downlink during cruise phase. The invention of a method for achieving circular polarization in a high-temperature (+300degC) environment has doubled the science return of the mission relative to the inherent linear polarization from a slotted waveguide array. Monolithic microwave integrated circuits and discrete heterostructure field effect transistors are integrated to provide the high-efficiency X-band solid-state power amplifier.
Placental Oxidative Status throughout Normal Gestation in Women with Uncomplicated Pregnancies.

The effects of gestational age on placental oxidative balance throughout gestation were investigated in women with uncomplicated pregnancies. Placental tissues were obtained from normal pregnant women who delivered at term or underwent elective pregnancy termination at 6 to 23
Contingency Tables and Log-Linear Models: Basic Results and New Developments

(2000). Contingency Tables and Log-Linear Models: Basic Results and New Developments. Journal of the American Statistical Association: Vol. 95, No. 450, pp. 643-647.
A Miniaturized System for Spike-Triggered Intracortical Microstimulation in an Ambulatory Rat

This paper reports on a miniaturized system for spike-triggered intracortical microstimulation (ICMS) in an ambulatory rat. The head-mounted microdevice comprises a previously developed application-specific integrated circuit fabricated in 0.35-μm two-poly four-metal complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor technology, which is assembled and packaged on a miniature rigid-flex substrate together with a few external components for programming, supply regulation, and wireless operation. The microdevice operates autonomously from a single 1.55-V battery, measures 3.6 cm × 1.3 cm × 0.6 cm, weighs 1.7 g (including the battery), and is capable of stimulating as well as recording the neural response to ICMS in biological experiments with anesthetized laboratory rats. Moreover, it has been interfaced with silicon microelectrodes chronically implanted in the cerebral cortex of an ambulatory rat and successfully delivers electrical stimuli to the second somatosensory area when triggered by neural activity from the rostral forelimb area with a user-adjustable spike-stimulus time delay. The spike-triggered ICMS is further shown to modulate the neuronal firing rate, indicating that it is physiologically effective.
Average probability of packet error over arbitrarily correlated fading channels

Two new alternative expressions for the average probability of packet error (PPE) over arbitrarily correlated fading channels are derived. As special cases, first order Markov and land mobile correlation models are studied. The new formulas are applicable for all modulation schemes for which the conditional probability of error has an exponential dependence on the signal-to-noise ratio. Among many modulation schemes which meet this requirement either exactly or approximately, noncoherent frequency-shift-keying (NCFSK) is considered as a special case for the purpose for numerical computation. These new expressions of the average PPE are then applied to obtain a modified throughput expression which is then evaluated in the case of non persistent carrier sense multiple access (NPCSMA) protocol. As an illustration of the mathematical expressions, the effect of the different system parameters is studied and discussed.
Naturally occurring core-gene-defective hepatitis B viruses

This study was undertaken to determine the prevalence of core-gene-defective hepatitis B virus (HBV) in patients with chronic HBV infection, and the nature and significance of the deletions. PCR was performed on sera from 263 patients with chronic HBV infection. Seventeen (6.5%) patients had smaller band(s) in addition to a band of the expected size. Additional bands were also detected in the follow-up samples from 80% and 3% patients who had respectively, multiple and single bands initially. Six patients were further studied by direct sequencing. Four patients had in-frame deletions leading to loss of codons 79–122 of the core gene. Two patients had identical frameshift deletions of nucleotides 2204–2333 resulting in the loss of the first nine codons of the overlapping P gene. Follow-up samples from three of four patients studied showed deletions identical to those in the initial samples. The persistence of these deletions suggests that they were stable and that they may contribute to the chronicity of infection.
Simple rapid hydrolysis of acetyl protecting groups in the FDG synthesis using cation exchange resins

Abstract A new solid phase method for hydrolysis of acetyl groups from the intermediate 2-[ 18 F]fluoro-2-deoxy-glucose tetraacetate ([ 18 F]FDG-Ac 4 ) was developed. Fast cleavage occurs with Dowex 50 sulfonic acid resin (H+ form) at ~100 °C in the absence of bulk water. [ 18 F]FDG-Ac 4 reaction mixtures were efficiently converted to neutral aqueous solutions of pure FDG in 10–15 min. The method avoids problems associated with liquid acids and can be easily integrated into existing [ 18 F]FDG procedures.
Effects of the Wiggler on the Hefei Light Source Storage Ring

The Hefei light source (HLS) is a second generation synchrotron radiation light source, in which a superconducting wiggler is installed and operating. The effects of the wiggler on the beam dynamics on the HLS storage ring are studied, in order to make sure the wiggler can operate properly when the ring is working in the high brilliance mode. We generate a model of the magnetic field in the midplane of the wiggler. The 3D magnetic field model is also builded up by COSY infinity 9.0. Both the linear and nonlinear effects of the wiggler are discussed. The vertical tune is changed from 2.535 to 2.567 and the vertical beta function is heavily distorted, while a symplectic tracking study shows the dynamic aperture is only slightly affected by the wiggler. And the wiggler should be able to run on the high brilliance mode after the linear effects get compensated.
Effectiveness of chemoradiation for head and neck cancer in an older patient population.

Purpose The purpose of this study was to compare chemoradiation therapy (CRT) with radiation therapy (RT) only in an older patient population with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Methods and Materials Using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER)-Medicare linked database (1992-2007), we identified a retrospective cohort of nonmetastatic HNSCC patients and divided them into treatment groups. Comparisons were made between CRT and RT cohorts. Propensity scores for CRT were estimated from covariates associated with receipt of treatment using multivariable logistic regression. Standardized mortality ratio weights (SMRW) were created from the propensity scores and used to balance groups on measured confounders. Multivariable and SMR-weighted Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate the hazard ratio (HR) of death for receipt of CRT versus RT among the whole group and for separate patient and tumor categories. Results The final cohort of 10,599 patients was 68% male and 89% white. Median age was 74 years. Seventy-four percent were treated with RT, 26% were treated with CRT. Median follow-up points for CRT and RT survivors were 4.6 and 6.3 years, respectively. On multivariable analysis, HR for death with CRT was 1.13 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.07-1.20; P P =.01). Conclusions Although the addition of chemotherapy to radiation has proven efficacious in many randomized controlled trials, it may be less effective in an older patient population treated outside of a controlled trial setting.
Competitiveness and Democracy

After reviewing progress in Latin America's economic stabilization and international competitiveness in the last two decades, this essay discusses the current post–Washington Consensus “social democratic convergence” agenda, which aims to sharpen market efficiency, improve the quality of democratic governance, and advance equity goals by attacking the social deficit. Two illustrative examples, at opposite ends of the development spectrum, are Nicaragua's pro-CAFTA agenda and Chile's Chile Compete program. More generally, pluralistic democracy can hamper progress by giving veto powers to recalcitrant vested interests; but enlightened political leadership can make gains by combining carefully crafted coalitions, international support, popular pressures, and an attractive ideological message.
ISO 9000: the latest wonder drug to solve the quality problem and improve global competitiveness

The author summarizes the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9000 requirements, what the standards are to accomplish, what benefits a company can achieve by adhering to the standards, and what the problems are with these standards. Recommendations are made regarding whether a company should join the ISO 9000 bandwagon. It is concluded that compliance with ISO 9000 will not solve the quality, reliability, or liability problem. The solution will still remain in the hands of company management. However, compliance will be a very good step toward attaining a good quality product. >
A combinatorial approach for automotive friction materials: Combined effects of ingredients on friction performance

The combined effects of ingredient A and C in A + B + C systems where A and C are Al 2 O 3 , graphite, MoS 2 , steel wool and Twaron (aramid pulp), and B is a binder (benzoxazine) on friction performance were studied. Ray design with Golden Section was used for the formulated A + B + C ternary composites. Two combined factors, morphological combinations including fiber/fiber, fiber/filler and filler/filler and combinations by means of material nature including abrasive/abrasive, abrasive/ lubricant and lubricant/lubricant, and their composition dependence were considered. Synergetic effects, defined as a minimum wear in wear-composition relationships, were found in morphological combinations of fiber/filler (steel wool/Al 2 O 3 /B and Twaron/Graphite/B systems). Synergetic effects producing maximum values in friction coefficient (μ)-composition curves were not found in all combinations. All combinations of lubricant/lubricant and abrasive/abrasive reduce μ and the effects of the combinations of abrasive/lubricant are dependent upon their abrasive or lubricant efficiency. Strong abrasive (Al 2 O 3 ) plays an important role on the formation of friction layer that the transferred iron from disc to friction materials in combinations of Al 2 O 3 /lubricant/B systems, and there is no such a transfer of iron from disc to friction materials on the surface of lubricant/lubricant combinations. The S type friction transition was observed in MoS 2 /steel wool/B and graphite/ steel wool/B systems and was caused by adhesion friction mechanism.
Lessons learned building a general purpose cluster for space mission applications

Over the past five years we have built and operated a computing cluster for company-wide unclassified technical and scientific computing. In this paper, we discuss our cluster architecture, some of the architectural decisions we faced in the process, a sampling of applications run by our users, and lessons learned from building and operating this cluster. We also discuss future plans to use the cluster to support continuity of technical operations and netcentricity.
Spatial geographic mosaic in an aquatic predator-prey network.

The geographic mosaic theory of coevolution predicts 1) spatial variation in predatory structures as well as prey defensive traits, and 2) trait matching in some areas and trait mismatching in others mediated by gene flow. We examined gene flow and documented spatial variation in crushing resistance in the freshwater snails Mexipyrgus churinceanus, Mexithauma quadripaludium, Nymphophilus minckleyi, and its relationship to the relative frequency of the crushing morphotype in the trophically polymorphic fish Herichthys minckleyi. Crushing resistance and the frequency of the crushing morphotype did show spatial variation among 11 naturally replicated communities in the Cuatro Cienegas valley in Mexico where these species are all endemic. The variation in crushing resistance among populations was not explained by geographic proximity or by genetic similarity in any species. We detected clear phylogeographic patterns and limited gene flow for the snails but not for the fish. Gene flow among snail populations in Cuatro Cienegas could explain the mosaic of local divergence in shell strength and be preventing the fixation of the crushing morphotype in Herichthys minckleyi. Finally, consistent with trait matching across the mosaic, the frequency of the fish morphotype was negatively correlated with shell crushing resistance likely reflecting the relative disadvantage of the crushing morphotype in communities where the snails exhibit relatively high crushing resistance.
Nondaily Smoking and Alcohol Use, Hazardous Drinking, and Alcohol Diagnoses Among Young Adults: Findings From the NESARC

Background: Nondaily smoking and heavy alcohol use are prevalent behaviors among young adults, with nondaily smoking occurring primarily in the context of alcohol use. Although the relationship between drinking and daily smoking has been well characterized in young adults, few epidemiological investigations have investigated the association between nondaily smoking and drinking behavior. Methods: We examined Wave 1 of the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC; Grant et al., 2003b; n = 43,093). Young adults (aged 18 to 25 years; n = 5,838) were stratified on current smoking behavior (daily, nondaily, and nonsmokers in the past 12 months) and differences in weekly quantity of alcohol use, frequency of alcohol use, frequency of binge drinking behavior, rates of NIAAA-defined hazardous drinking, and rates of DSM-IV alcohol diagnoses were investigated. College student status was examined. Results: Twenty-five percent were current smokers and 7% were smoking on a nondaily basis. Seventy-one percent were current drinkers, 39% reported binge drinking at least once a month, 41% met criteria for hazardous drinking, and 18% had alcohol use disorders. Across all measures of alcohol use, there was a significant effect of smoking status, with daily smokers having greater alcohol use patterns, compared with nondaily smokers, with nonsmokers consuming the least. Nondaily smokers were more likely to report any binge drinking in the past 12 months. However, daily smokers were more likely to report daily binge drinking. With regard to hazardous drinking and alcohol use disorders, nondaily smoking conferred the greatest risk, followed by daily smoking with nonsmoking as the reference group. Multinomial logistic regression demonstrated that the odds of being a hazardous drinker were 16 times greater (95% CI 9.46–26.48) in a nondaily smoker compared with a nonsmoker, whereas the odds for a daily smoker were increased by 7-fold (95% CI 5.54–9.36). A similar pattern of results was demonstrated for DSM-IV alcohol diagnoses. No differences across college student status were observed. Conclusions: The increased risk of hazardous drinking and alcohol use disorders conferred by nondaily smoking supports the findings that nondaily smoking and drinking are highly concomitant behaviors. Results such as these suggest that interventions disengaging alcohol and cigarette use patterns (e.g., smoking bans in alcohol venues) might serve to limit the occurrence of hazardous drinking among young adults at heightened risk for this behavior.
Radiation-induced osteosarcomas of the calvarium and skull base.

BACKGROUND: Although a rare complication of ionizing radiation, radiation-induced osteosarcoma is now more frequently recognized as radiation therapy has become common and cancer survival has increased. To date, publications on radiation-induced osteosarcoma of the cranium are limited to a few small series and case reports. METHODS: Data from 175 patients with a history of sarcoma of the head at The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center from 1975 to 2007 were reviewed to identify patients with radiation-induced osteosarcoma. The diagnostic criteria were: 1) osteosarcoma arose within the previously irradiated field; 2) new sarcoma was histologically distinct from the original neoplasm; 3) no evidence of new sarcoma at the time of radiation; and 4) distinct latency period could be recognized. Frequencies and descriptive statistics were obtained for the various characteristics under study. RESULTS: The authors identified 16 patients with radiation-induced osteosarcoma of the cranium at their institution. The average age at diagnosis was 35 years. The median latency period was 12.5 years. Nine patients had skull base tumors, and 7 had calvarial tumors. Of the 14 patients treated surgically, 86% developed local recurrence. The median survival time was 29 months, and the 5-year survival rate was 29.6%. CONCLUSIONS: The authors report the largest series of cranial radiation-induced osteosarcoma. Although radiation-induced osteosarcoma is an uncommon but dire complication of radiotherapy, its incidence will probably increase in the future as the frequency of radiation treatment and cancer survival increase. These tumors are locally aggressive, and despite aggressive surgical and medical management, they have a high rate of local recurrence and mortality. Cancer 2011. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Efficient Impairment-Constrained 3R Regenerator Placement for Light-Trees in Optical Networks

Light-trees can efficiently guarantee point-to-multipoint connection in optical networks for many widely used multicast applications, such as Internet protocol television (IPTV). The establishment of a light-tree requires the placement of 3R regenerators along the tree due to the wavelength continuity constraint and physical impairments. Thus, the problem is to establish a light-tree and to assign wavelengths such that the number of regenerators is minimized. We call this problem the efficient 3R regenerator placement (ERP) problem. If we fix the routing of the multicast tree, then how to place a minimum number of regenerators and assign wavelengths to links becomes a subproblem of ERP, which is named the wavelength assignment and regenerator placement (WARP) problem. We find that ERP is NP-hard, and then provide an approximation algorithm named SPT-ReWa, which has a subroutine named ReWa which can solve WARP optimally. We prove that ReWa can find an optimal solution for WARP, and we analyze the approximation ratio of SPT-ReWa for ERP. Finally, we illustrate several simulation scenarios to show the efficiency of SPT-ReWa.
Toward nanoelectronic cellular neural networks

We investigate the use of nanoelectronic structures in cellular nonlinear network (CNN) architectures, for potential application in future high-density and low-power CMOS-nanodevice hybrid circuits. We first investigate compact models for simulation of Single Electron Tunneling (SET) transistors appropriate for use in coupled SET-CMOS circuits. We then discuss simple CNN linear architectures using a SET inverter topology as the basis for the nonlinear transfer characteristic of individual cells. This basic SET CNN cell acts as a summing node, which is capacitively coupled to the inputs and outputs of nearest neighbor cells. Monte Carlo simulation results are then used to show CNN like behavior in attempting to realize different functionality such as a connected component detector and shadowing. Toward nanoelectronic cellular neural networks (PDF Download Available). Available from: http://www.researchgate.net/publication/228610387_Toward_nanoelectronic_cellular_neural_networks [accessed Jul 21, 2015].
POLICY VOTING IN SENATE ELECTIONS: The Case of Abortion

Questions about whether voters rely on their policy preferences when casting ballots have been present since scholars first began examining the determinants of voting behavior. This paper seeks to contribute to research in this area by analyzing abortion policy voting in Senate elections. Specifically, I investigate how the effects of national party position divergence, candidate position divergence, and voter information and salience moderate the relationship between abortion policy preferences and vote choice. The results suggest that the national parties' divergence on abortion does not directly strengthen the connection between abortion policy preferences and ballot decisions. Instead, candidate contrast appears to be the key. And, well informed and motivated voters are especially responsive. Taken together, the findings illuminate the nature of abortion policy voting and also inform the burgeoning scholarship on campaign effects, the role of information, and issue publics in American politics.
CT Versus Ultrasound

The conference commenced with a review of the relative value of ultrasound and CT in abdominal diagnosis. The two systems have significant differences: Ultrasound is portable, able to show movements in real-time, quick, relatively cheap both to perform and to buy, and has no radiation risk. CT, on the other hand, gives a total abdominal cross section without aberrations due to gas or bone, though only in a transverse plane; whereas ultrasound gives oblique and longitudinal sections. Superficially, ultrasound offers a very high resolution, but at depth CT appears to be slightly better at resolving small structures. CT is able to examine large, fat, gassy people who are unsuitable for ultrasound. Thin people and small children may be best shown with ultrasound. Additional information about structures other than the one that is being examined is obtainable with both techniques, but more often with CT. Since a total cross section is obtained, CT has significantly better physician acceptance even though the same information may be displayed.
Ganaxolone suppression of behavioral and electrographic seizures in the mouse amygdala kindling model

Summary Ganaxolone (3α-hydroxy-3β-methyl-5α-pregnan-20-one), a synthetic analog of the endogenous neurosteroid allopregnanolone and a positive allosteric modulator of GABA A receptors, may represent a new treatment approach for epilepsy. Here we demonstrate that pretreatment with ganaxolone (1.25–20mg/kg, s.c.) causes a dose-dependent suppression of behavioral and electrographic seizures in fully amygdala-kindled female mice, with nearly complete seizure protection at the highest dose tested. The ED 50 for suppression of behavioral seizures was 6.6mg/kg. The seizure suppression produced by ganaxolone was comparable to that of clonazepam (ED 50 , 0.1mg/kg, s.c.). To the extent that amygdala kindling represents a model of mesial temporal lobe epilepsy, this study supports the utility of ganaxolone in the treatment of patients with temporal lobe seizures.
Security Concerns in the Nomological Network of Trust and Big 5: First Order Vs. Second Order

Even though Privacy concerns (PC) and security concerns (SC) are acknowledged as separate constructs, many studies argue that they are related or, even worse, confused. Building upon the non-overlapping SC and PC dimensions, we propose Internet Users Information Transmission Security Concern (IUITSC) scale. We argue that the scale when used in conjunction with PC scale would cover the entire gamut of SC-PC. The construct is tested in a nomological network of Big 5 and trust. The results based on extensive statistical tests including chi-square difference tests suggest that IUITSC may be represented as a second-order factor structure rather than a set of four first-order factors. The results show that personality dimensions of conscientiousness, emotional instability and extraversion are positively associated with IUITSC (second order), which in turn is found to significantly lower trust in a website. Big5 dimensions are found to impact the IUITSC differently depending upon the factor structure.
Goal Attainment Scaling as a Measure of Change in Infants with Motor Delays

Goal attainment scaling (GAS) is an individualized criterion-referenced measure of change that has several unique features, compared with the behavioral objective, and five possible levels of attainment for each goal. The validity of GAS as a measure of motor change was investigated in 65 infants, 3 to 30 months of age, with motor delays. For each infant, two goals to be attained within a 6-month period of intervention were established. After the 6-month period, the mean GAS T-score of 55.4 was significantly higher than the expected mean of 50. This finding indicated that the infants' motor change exceeded the therapists' expectations. Neither the type nor the category of goal influenced the therapists' ability to select outcomes that the infants were capable of achieving. Because moderate and low correlations were found between GAS T-scores and Peabody gross motor and fine motor change scores, the two assessments appear to measure different aspects of motor development. Selected child, family, and program variables were examined as sources of bias in GAS T-scores. Motor delay was the only variable that biased GAS T-scores; infants who were less delayed had higher GAS T-scores. The results indicate that GAS was responsive to change in individualized motor goals and support the model of GAS as an idiosyncratic measure. The unique features of GAS offer advantages for measurement of motor change compared with the behavioral objective and norm-referenced developmental scales.
The Cartesian Product Algorithm

Concrete types and abstract types are different and serve different purposes. Concrete types, the focus of this paper, are essential to support compilation, application delivery, and debugging in object-oriented environments. Concrete types should not be obtained from explicit type declarations because their presence limits polymorphism unacceptably. This leaves us with type inference. Unfortunately, while polymorphism demands the use of type inference, it has also been the hardest challenge for type inference.
An Updated Check List of the Cochylina (Tortricidae, Tortricinae, Euliini) of North America North of Mexico Including Greenland, with Comments on Classification and Identification

ABSTRACT. We present an updated list of the members of the subtribe Cochylina (Tortricidae) in North America north of Mexico. We summarize the proposed changes in the classification since the end of 1978. We propose revised status for two genera, Rolandylis Gibeaux, 1985 and Thyraylia Walsingham, 1897. We propose eleven revised combinations: Saphenista parvimaculana (Walsingham, 1879), unplaced Cochylina omphacitis (Meyrick, 1912) [Cochylis], unplaced Cochylina voxcana (Kearfott, 1907) [Phalonia], Thyraylia bana (Kearfott, 1907), Thyraylia rhodites (Meyrick, 1912), Thyraylia bunteana (Robinson, 1869), Thyraylia discana (Kearfott, 1907), Thyraylia cricota (Meyrick, 1912), Thyraylia gunniana (Busck, 1907), Thyraylia hollandana (Kearfott, 1907), and Thyraylia nana (Haworth, [1811]). We propose four revised combinations: Rolandylis fusca Pogue, 2001, Rolandylis maiana (Kearfott, 1907), Rolandylis catalonica Gibeaux, 1985, Rolandylis virilia Pogue, 2001; and three new synonymies: Aethes ziscana Kearfott with A...
Heterogeneity in Health and Mortality Risk Among Early Retiree Men

Conventional wisdom holds that the majority of early retirees are in good health and that only a minority are in poor health. This wisdom is based on examinations of levels of health among the early retiree population. In contrast, this paper looks at both the health and mortality risks of early retirees relative to the health and mortality risks of full-retirement-age retirees. Data from the Survey of Income and Program Participation (SIPP) matched to Social Security earnings and benefit data are used to examine differences in health between and within each retirement age. Data from the 1973 Current Population Survey (CPS) matched to Social Security earnings, benefit, and death data are used to examine differences in mortality risk between and within each retirement age. This paper finds substantial heterogeneity among early retirees in health and mortality risks related to the age at which they become entitled to Social Security benefits. Early retirees consist of (1) a group in extremely poor health, (2) a group with health equal to age-65 retirees, and (3) a group with health in between that of the first two groups. The majority of early retirees are in poorer health and have higher mortality risk than that of age-65 retirees, and only a minority have health and mortality risks as good as that of age-65 retirees.
Whole grain consumption trends and associations with body weight measures in the United States: results from the cross sectional National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2001–2012

The purpose of this study was (1) to describe intakes of total grain and whole grain in the United States over the past 12 years and major dietary sources, and (2) to determine the relationship between whole grain intake and adiposity measures for children and adults. Cross-sectional dietary data from the continuous National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2001–12 (6 2-year cycles) for children 6–18 years (n = 15,280) and adults 19+ years (n = 29,683) were linked to the My Pyramid and Food Patterns Equivalents Databases to assess daily intake of total grain and whole grain. These populations were classified into groups based on average whole grain intake: 0 ounce equivalents (oz eq)/day, > 0 and <1 oz eq/day, and ≥1 oz eq/day. Within these classifications, body mass index, waist circumference, and percent overweight/obese were identified. Regression and logistic regression analyses were used to assess associations between these dependent variables and whole grain intake. Adults consumed a mean 0.72 whole grain oz eq/day in 2001–02 and 0.97 oz eq/day in 2011–12 and children consumed a mean 0.56 whole grain oz eq/day in 2001–02 and 0.74 oz eq/day in 2011–12. While over 70 % of children and 60 % of adults met daily intake recommendations for total grain, less than 1.0 and 8.0 % percent of children and adults, respectively, met whole grain recommendations in 2011–12. Adults and children who consumed whole grain had significantly better intakes of nutrients and dietary fiber compared to non-consumers. From 2001 to 2012, grain mixed dishes and yeast breads were the leading sources of total grain, while yeast breads and ready to eat cereals were the leading sources of whole grain for both children and adults. Multiple regression analysis showed a significant, inverse relationship between body mass index and waist circumference with respect to whole grain intake after adjustment for covariates in both children and adults (p < 0.05). Similarly, logistic regression analysis showed a significant inverse relationship between percent overweight/obese and whole grain intake (p < 0.05). Although most children and adults meet daily intake goals for grain foods overall, whole grain as a portion of total grain intake continues to be consumed at levels well below recommendations. The data from the current study suggest that greater whole grain consumption is associated with better intakes of nutrients and healthier body weight in children and adults. Continued efforts to promote increased intake of whole grain foods are warranted.