cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Why Men Are Interested in an Evaluation for a Sexual Problem

Objective: To understand why men were interested in an evaluation of a perceived sexual problem. Design: Survey. Setting: Tertiary-referral VA Medical Center in Southeast Atlantic Region. Participants: Respondents from a 3% random sample of male veterans age 30–99 registered at a VA medical center with completed survey data (n = 427). Measurements: A cross-sectional mailed survey. Independent variables included survey data related to emotional state, physical state, and/or demographic characteristics (marital status, race, and age). The dependent variable was interest in evaluation of a sexual problem. Main Results: Measures of erectile function, libido, and orgasm, when entered sequentially as separate functional sets in a logistic regression analysis, have a statistically significant (P < 0.05) influence on interest in an evaluation of a sexual problem. After controlling for sexual function and emotional state, physical state did not add to predicting interest in an evaluation for a sexual problem. After controlling for all other covariates, those who were never married, non-white, and elderly were less interested in an evaluation for a sexual problem (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Age, race, and marital status, in addition to sexual function, influence male veterans' interest in seeking clinical assessment for a sexual problem.
Muscarinic cholinergic receptor regulation and acetylcholinesterase inhibition in response to insecticide exposure during development

Neonatal rats were exposed to parathion, an acetylcholinesterase inhibiting organophosphorus pesticide, during a rapid phase of cholinergic receptor development. Rats were given subcutaneous injections of 1.5 mg/kg/day from postnatal days 8-20. The immediate effects of subchronic developmental exposure were assessed in 21-day-old animals and more persistent effects assessed in 36-day-old animals. There was a 61% inhibition of acetylcholinesterase and a 27% decrease of muscarinic receptor density in 21-day-old treated rats. The reduction in receptor density was dose-dependent and a significant correlation was found between the level of acetylcholinesterase inhibition produced by parathion and the reduction in receptor density. It was estimated that a minimum of at least 15% prolonged inhibition of forebrain acetylcholinesterase by parathion was necessary to reduce receptor density. Regional analyses of receptor autoradiograms of 21-day-old animals indicated muscarinic receptors in the cortex and hippocampus were preferentially lost. The anterior thalamus was notable in having a high density of cholinergic receptors which were unaffected by parathion treatment. No changes were found in the affinity of [3H]QNB for the receptor or in the binding of the agonist, acetylcholine, n competition binding studies. AChE activity and muscarinic receptor density returned to normal after a 16 day recovery period. Parathion treated animals were growth inhibited but, growth retardation induced by undernutrition did not alter receptor density or affinity of QNB for muscarinic receptors. Thus, the transient decrease in receptor density in parathion exposed animals was similar to the response previously observed in adults and was not secondary to growth retardation or undernutrition. Receptor densities and acetylcholinesterase levels were regulated back to normal values after a 16 day recovery period in spite of the perturbation of cholinergic function during cholinergic synapse and receptor development.
Assessment of satisfaction with treatment for chronic pain

Abstract The purpose of this study was to develop an instrument to assess satisfaction with treatment of chronic pain, evaluate the reliability and validity of this instrument, and then examine predictors and consequences of satisfaction. The Pain Service Satisfaction Test (PSST) is the result of this effort. Fifty adult patients receiving services for chronic pain in a university pain clinic completed the PSST as part of a survey mailed to their homes. Findings supporting the validity of the PSST included significant positive correlations with a general measure of treatment satisfaction, patient ratings of global treatment satisfaction and effects of treatment, and physician ratings of patient satisfaction with treatment. Regression analyses of predictors of satisfaction highlighted significant contributions of confidence and trust in the provider, pain reduction, and waiting in the clinic. These predictors together accounted for 60 % of satisfaction with treatment. Treatment satisfaction was negatively correlated with depression, reported number of physicians consulted, and number of physician visits for pain in the past 12 months; and there was a trend toward a negative correlation with disability. Results of the present study support the importance of satisfaction with treatment as a predictor and possible determinant of later health, function, and service utilization.
The Growing Gap in Life Expectancy: Using the Future Elderly Model to Estimate Implications for Social Security and Medicare

Across the industrialized world, health and mortality gradients by education and income have generally been steepening (Crimmins and Saito 2001; Meara, Richards, and Cutler 2008; Goldman and Smith 2011). The leading explanations for the increased gaps in life expectancy involve differential trends in smoking, diet and exercise, stress, chronic disease management, and access to health care. Less well known, however, is the impact these trends will have on public programs and their progressivity—especially Social Security and Medicare. To fill this gap, this paper uses the Future Elderly Model (FEM), a microsimulation model of health and economic outcomes for older Americans, to estimate the effects of steeper mortality gradients on the progressivity of Social Security and Medicare benefits.
Strain Dependent Variations in the Frictional Properties of Bovine Articular Cartilage

This study investigates the hypothesis that the equilibrium friction coefficient of cartilage decreases with increasing compressive strain. Furthermore, when accounting for this strain-dependence, it is hypothesized that the temporal response of the friction coefficient correlates linearly with interstitial fluid load support, in the configuration of unconfined compression stress-relaxation. Both hypotheses were confirmed from theory and experiment.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
Abnormalities in the Membrane Material Properties of Hereditary Spherocytes

Mechanical measurements of intrinsic membrane material properties are used to characterize the defect in hereditary spherocyte membrane at a continuum level. The value of the surface elastic shear modulus is two-thirds as large as normal values, and the value of the yield shear resultant is one-third as large as normal values. The viscosity of the surface above th elastic-plastic transition appears normal. Under similar geometric conditions, the force required to fragment a hereditary spherocyte is about one-third as large as the force required to fragment a normal cell.
Input modeling and its impact: modeling and generating multivariate time series with arbitrary marginals and autocorrelation structures

Providing accurate and automated input modeling support is one of the challenging problems in the application of computer simulation. In this paper, we present a general-purpose input-modeling tool for representing, fitting, and generating random variates from multivariate input processes to drive computer simulations. We explain the theory underlying the suggested data fitting and data generation techniques, and demonstrate that our framework fits models accurately to both univariate and multivariate input processes.
Hip and calcaneal bone loss increase with advancing age: longitudinal results from the study of osteoporotic fractures

It is uncertain whether or how rapidly elderly women continue to lose bone with advancing age. To determine rates of change in bone mass at the hip and at the calcaneus in elderly women and to compare these rates of change among estrogen users and nonusers, we prospectively measured rates of change in bone mineral density (BMD) at the total hip and its four subregions (mean +/- SD, 3.55 +/- 0.29 years between examinations) and at the calcaneus (mean +/- SD, 5.69 +/- 0.33 years between examinations) in 5689 community-dwelling white women aged 65 years or older at the baseline examination. The rate of decline in total hip BMD steadily increased from 2.5 mg/cm 2/year (95% confidence interval 2.0 to 2.9) in women 67-69 years old to 10.4 mg/cm 2/year in those aged 85 or older (95% confidence interval 8.4 to 12.4). The rate of bone loss also increased with aging at all subregions of the hip and at the calcaneus. The average loss of bone from the total hip is sufficient to increase the risk of hip fracture by 21% per 5 years in women aged 80 years or older. Compared with nonusers, current estrogen users had a 33% lower age-adjusted mean rate of loss at the total hip (2.9 vs 4.3 mg/cm 2/year, p < or = 0.0001) and a 35% lower age-adjusted mean rate of loss at the calcaneus (3.9 vs 6.0 mg/cm 2/year, p < or = 0.0001). The rate of bone loss in the hip and calcaneus steadily increases with advancing age in older women. Estrogen therapy may significantly decrease this loss. Efforts to understand and prevent bone loss should include elderly women.
Contemporary Literature, Post-Industrial Capital, and the UK Creative Industries

The creative industries, an important means of economic development in the post-industrial UK, position culture as an engine that generates wealth, that encourages social cohesion, and that helps to brand distinct regions for export and consumption. Yet their relevance to contemporary literature has not yet been subject to sustained study. This article lays some groundwork for new inquiry by thinking about writers as members of a creative class. In fact they may exemplify it, as aspects of how they work, live, and value their own autonomy have proven particularly useful to current post-industrial mandates. The idea of the autonomy of the arts has become one rationale behind their use as a plank in the construction of a brand-based visitor economy. Brand UK is meant to strengthen diplomatic ties, encourage corporate investment, and win the loyalty of global citizen-consumers whose appreciation for artistic freedom should guarantee their love for the products, services, and ideals that originate in the UK. Thus the arts’ ostensible freedom is emphasized, and must seem viable, for them to be available for conscription into post-industrial government and corporate mandates. Meanwhile new economic applications for the arts influence the value, production and authority of new writing. They also affect its meaning, because writers tend to work against – by self-consciously highlighting – instrumental uses of their texts and of their cultural cachet. This means a notable and productive tension has arisen, as writers’ attachment to their separation from corporate and state prerogatives, often reinforced in their literature, may be precisely what guarantees continued instrumental value.
THE TEMPERATURE OF TREE TRUNKS—CALCULATED AND OBSERVED

A computer program based on Dusinberre's finite difference method was written to predict the diurnal temperature variations in a tree trunk. The program accounts for solar radiation, thermal radiation, re-radiation and forced convection. The trunk is heterogeneous and anisotropic. A comparison between observations and predictions is made. THE TEMPERATURE of a tree trunk influenices the physiological processes of a tree and the microclimate for insects, parasites, fungi, lichens, lizards, and other organisms. The diurnal and seasonal temperature variations of a tree trunk probably play a role in the growth of the trunk as exhibited by the annual ring. Trunk temperatures may be important in translocation of water and photosynthates. Finally a knowledge of trunk temperature should give an increased understanding of high and low temperature hardiness. Air temperature, wind speed, and incident radiation determine the energy environment of a tree. During daylight, incident radiation consists of direct solar radiation, reflected solar radiation and long-wave thermal radiation. At night a tree continues to receive thermal radiation. The temperatures of the atmosphere, ground, and surrounding objects determine the amount of thermal radiation received. The thermal properties of a tree (absorptivity, specific heat, and conductivity) combined with geometrical factors govern the distribution of heat-energy. The surface temperature of the trunk will respond nearly instantaneously to the environmental factors, while the temperature at a considerable depth within the trunk will respond many minutes or hours later. Forster (1953) presented an equation for predicting the temperature history of a tree in the
Probing-Based Variable Selection Heuristics for NCSPs

Interval branch & bound solvers are commonly used for solving numerical constraint satisfaction problems. They alternate filtering/contraction and branching steps in order to find small boxes containing all the solutions of the problem. The branching basically consists in generating two sub problems by dividing the domain of one variable into two. The selection of this variable is the topic of this work. Several heuristics have been proposed so far, most of them using local information from the current node (e.g., Domain sizes, partial derivative images over the current box, etc). We propose instead an approach based on past information. This information is provided by a preprocessing phase of the algorithm (probing) and is used during the search. In simple words, our algorithm attempts to identify the most important variables in a series of cheap test runs. As a result of probing, the variables are weighted. These weights are then considered by the selection heuristic during the search. Experiments stress the interest of using techniques based on past information in interval branch & bound solvers.
Patterned Silver Nanorod Array Substrates for Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering

A novel method for batch fabrication of substrates for surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) has been developed. A modified platen that fits in a commercial electron beam evaporator enables the simultaneous deposition of Ag nanorod arrays onto six microscope slides by glancing angle deposition. Following removal of substrates from the evaporator, patterned wells are formed by contact printing of a polymer onto the surface. Well dimensions are defined by penetration of the polymer into the nanorod array and subsequent photochemical curing. Inherent advantages of this method include: (1) simultaneous production of several nanorod array substrates with high structural uniformity, (2) physical isolation of nanorod arrays from one another to minimize cross contamination during sample loading, (3) dimensional compatibility of the patterned array with existing SERS microscope, (4) large SERS enhancement afforded by the nanorod array format, (5) small fluid volumes, and (6) ease of use for manual delivery of fluids to each element in the patterned array. In this article, the well-to-well, slide-to-slide, and batch-to-batch variability in physical characteristics and SERS response of substrates prepared via this method is critically examined.
Optical issues for giant telescopes with extremely fast primary mirrors

Existing design rules break down as we plan for a new generation of giant optical telescopes of 20, 30, 50, even 100 meters in diameter. One might expect these telescopes to converge on the design universally ac-cepted for similarly sized radio telescopes, with their highly aspheric, ~ f/0.4, primary dish. But most of the optical design concepts now under consideration have favored spherical or relatively slow paraboloidal surfaces, leading to a much larger telescope, more subject to wind buffeting, and requiring gargantuan en-closures for protection. This paper explores issues and limitations for building and operating telescopes as the primary focal ratio is reduced to a value as small as f/0.4. Such compactness will be particularly impor-tant for mechanical stability, cost control and for large telescopes that must move continuously on a track, as in the 20/20 concept. We find that fabrication and alignment methods for telescopes using numerous small (1-m class) segments are driven to long focal ratios, while those using few large, actively controlled segments can be made as fast as f/0.5.
Orientational dynamics of non-rigid three-bond chains

A diffusion equation for a stiff chain has been applied to a calculation of first rank orientational correlation functions of flexible three-bond molecules. The non-linear equations for the bond vectors are reduced to a set of linear equations for the bond vector correlation functions by means of the Mori method. Orientational correlation times and Cole-Cole plots are calculated for the three-bond chain as a consequence of the potential hindering internal rotation. It is found that the correlation times in these small chains are anisotropic and depend significantly on the location of the vectors in the molecule. Cole-Cole plots for certain modes are skewed arcs, even in this diffusion picture, as a consequence of the three rigid-body correlation times and the extra time constants introduced by the internal degree of freedom.
New clinical trials with vitamin D and analogs in renal disease

Two new clinical trials highlight refinements in the use of vitamin D and its analogs in the treatment of secondary hyperparathyroidism in end-stage renal disease (ESRD), and the treatment of proteinuria in diabetics. In patients with ESRD, alfacalcidol is as effective as paricalcitol in suppressing parathyroid hormone; the occurrence of hypercalcemia and hyperphosphatemia is infrequent and similar with the two analogs. Oral cholecalciferol reduces albuminuria and urinary transforming growth factor-β1 in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and proteinuria.
Intraoperative ultrasound guidance for the placement of permanent ventricular cerebrospinal fluid shunt catheters: a single-center historical cohort study.

Objective Despite the frequency with which ventriculoperitoneal shunts are placed, ventricular catheter revision rates remains as high as 30%–40% at 1 year. Many neurosurgeons place ventricular catheters “blindly” depending on anatomical landmarks and personal experience. To determine whether intraoperative ultrasonography is beneficial for ventricular catheter placement, we performed a historical cohort study comparing shunts placed with intraoperative ultrasound (US) guidance to those placed blindly. Methods We reviewed all shunts placed by the Department of Neurosurgery at the University of Virginia from January 2005 to January 2007. During that time 211 patients underwent 242 shunts, with US use determined by surgeon's preference. Ninety-two shunts were placed by the use of US guidance, and 150 were placed without US. Adults received 176 shunts, 56 with US. Children received 66 shunts, 36 with US. Mean follow-up was 21.6 months. The primary end points examined were shunt revision, ventricular catheter revision (VCR), and acute VCR (revision within 1 week for an improperly-placed catheter). Results The use of US was associated with a statistically significant decrease in shunt revisions (odds ratio 0.492; 95% confidence interval 0.253–0.958). Of the shunts placed with US guidance, 21.7% required revision, compared with 29.3% without US. VCRs and acute VCRs occurred in 9.8% and 2.2%, respectively, for US shunts, compared with 14% and 5.3% without US. Pediatric revision rates were 30.6% with US versus 53.3% without, whereas adult rates were 16.1% and 23.3%, respectively. The benefit of US was more profound for occipital shunts. Conclusions The use of US for the placement of permanent cerebrospinal fluid shunt catheters is associated with a decreased risk of shunt revision.
Synthesis of 4-alkyl-4H-benzo[e]- and 4H-pyrido[2,3-e]-1,2,4-triazin-3-one 1-oxides for potential anticancer activity

Alkylation of the sodium salt of 4H-benzo[e]-1,2,4-triazin-3-one 1-oxide and its 7-methyl homolog with benzyl bromide and chloromethoxyethyl acetate gave the 4-substituted products. Alkylation with aceto-bromoglucose formed the 3-ether. Alkylation of 4H-pyrido[2,3-e]-1,2,4-triazin-3-one 1-oxide gave the 4-substi-tuted products with both benzyl bromide and acetobromoglucose. Deacetylation of both the tetra-O-acetyl-glucosyl and acetoxyethoxymethyl derivatives was accompolished was accompolished. Antileukemia tests for several of the 4-alkyl derivatives showed no activity.
Moving between literacy theory and practice with preservice teachers: Listening to their voices

Abstract The purpose of this study was to investigate two research questions: What literacy learning did preservice teachers experience through a Penpal Project embedded in an early literacy course? What sense did preservice teachers make of the Penpal Project?—with an overarching focus on bridging literacy theory with practice. Data were gathered in a university classroom setting, situated in a small Western town, over a period of one school semester. Data methods and sources included videotaped participant observation during weekly penpal letter‐sharing, preservice teachers’ reflection journals, focus group interviews, and preservice teachers’ Penpal Project Summaries. Patterns emerged from the data and were conceptualized under three broad categories: discourse, discovery and dilemmas. In the discourse category, cultivating relationships and learning through collaboration emerged as themes. Discoveries included meaning‐ and skill‐centered interpretations and professional learning. With regard to dilemm...
Anatomy and Physiology of the Esophagus

ABSTRACT Modern diagnosis and treatment of esophageal disease is a result of progress in assessing the anatomy and physiology of the esophagus, as well as refinements in anesthetic and surgical techniques. Esophageal carcinoma spreads rapidly and metastasizes easily. The tendency for early spread and the absence of symptoms result in late diagnosis that reduces treatment options and cure rates. Lifestyle (ie, use of alcohol and tobacco), nutritional deficiencies, ingestion of nitrosamines, and mutagen-inducing fungi are blamed for cancer of the esophagus. Other pathologic conditions (eg, achalasia, Barrett's epithelium, gastric reflux, hiatal hernia) are potential contributors to the development of carcinoma. Nurses are in key positions to identify the existence of factors contributing to premalignant or malignant lesions and to educate patients and make the appropriate referrals. AORN J 69 (Feb 1999) 372–386.
Implementing electronic document delivery in small hospital libraries

Abstract In July 2003, the National Network of Libraries of Medicine (NN/LM), Southeastern/Atlantic (SE/A) Regional Medical Library (RML) offered select member hospital libraries the opportunity to participate in a pilot electronic document delivery project. Awards of up to $2,000 were available for NN/LM SE/A DOCLINE-active hospital libraries. Funding supported the purchase of software and scanner imaging equipment. The smallest of libraries, and those without collections, needed receiving software only. After several rounds of Electronic Document Delivery (EDD) funding, statistics collected indicated a pattern of increased electronic borrowing and lending and shortened turn-around times for requested material. A by-product of the project was the development of an electronic-only, free sharing group in the Region, named ESEA (Electronic Southeastern/Atlantic Region), and adoption of clearly delineated electronic document delivery etiquette. Electronic document delivery rejuvenation in small medical libra...
Reinterpretation of a vintage 4.5-km resistivity line through Sulphur Springs, St. Lucia

Saint Lucia is part of the Lesser Antilles volcanic island arc in the eastern Caribbean (Figure 1). Volcanic activity has been concentrated in the southern half of the island for the last several million years (Wohletz et al., 1986). The Sulphur Springs geothermal area lies within what has been identified as the Qualibou Caldera. Geologic studies have shown that recent volcanic activity in the area has been of a type that is likely to emplace a magma heat source for high temperature geothermal systems to naturally develop. Any evidence for a supposed intrusion beneath Sulphur Springs comes from temperature measurements of the superheated steam and wells, and from microseismic data (GENZL, 1992). Aspinall et al. (1976) suggest two fluid bodies, one near Sulphur Springs at a depth between 0.5 and 2 km and a second on the northern caldera rim at depths greater than 1 km.
The struggle for unity among Parisian women: The Voix des femmes, March–June 1848

(1989). The struggle for unity among Parisian women: The Voix des femmes, March–June 1848. History of European Ideas: Vol. 11, No. 1-6, pp. 273-285.
Nontraditional gender role portrayals on television and children's gender role perceptions☆

Abstract The relation between nontraditional television programming and children's gender role perceptions is the focus of this study; possible age differences in gender role perceptions and flexibility are also examined. Knowledge of the content of “Who's the Boss?”, “The Cosby Show”, and “Growing Pains” was assessed in kindergarten and second-grade children tested in the springs of 1986 and 1987. Two measures of gender role perceptions were also administered to each child. In addition, traditional gender role knowledge was examined in the 1987 participants. Some data linking knowledge of nontraditional television shows and nontraditional gender role perception were found. Previously television viewing has been related to traditional gender role perceptions. As varying gender role portrayals are included in television programming this association may change.
High-resolution interface analysis of SiC-whisker-reinforced Si3N4 and Al2O3 ceramic matrix composites

Whisker/matrix interfaces between β-SiC whiskers and β-Si3N4 or α-Al2O3 matrices in composites were examined by high-resolution electron microscopy (HREM), and electron energy loss (ELS) and energy dispersive X-ray (EDS) spectroscopies. Most whisker/matrix interfaces were crystalline, with whiskers directly bonded to matrix crystals. Some whisker/matrix interface regions contained amorphous thin films and these occurred more often in the Si3N4 composite, which contained sintering additives, than in the Al2O3 matrix composite, which did not. No evidence for light element segregation at crystalline whisker/matrix interfaces was detected by ELS or EDS at 5 nm spatial resolution. Impurities were concentrated in glassy regions in matrix grain boundaries, triple junctions, or at infrequent whisker/matrix interfaces containing amorphous films.
Transient elastic stresses in ICF reactor first wall structural systems

Abstract Materials response modelling is used to determine transient stresses in light ion beam ICF reactor first walls. It is shown that mechanical stress from the dynamic overpressure and thermal stress from the heat flux can be of comparable magnitudes. The maximum values of each and the time at which they occur in the material can be controlled somewhat by small percentages of sodium in the cavity gas. Such characteristics can guide materials selection.
Standard Error of the Method of Simulated Moment Estimator for Generalized Linear Mixed Models

This article considers standard error estimation of the method of simulated moment estimator for generalized linear mixed models. In literature, parametric bootstrap is used to estimate the covariance matrix, in which we use the estimator to generate simulated moments. To avoid the bias introduced by estimating the parameter and to deal with the correlated observations, we propose a two-stage block nonparametric bootstrap to estimate the standard errors. It is shown from simulation study that the proposed method performs well.
Energy levels and intensity parameters of Ho3+ ions in Y3Al5O12 and Lu3Al5O12

The energy levels of the trivalent lanthanide Ho(sup 3+) in Y3Al5O12 (YAG) and Lu3Al5O12 (LuAG) have been measured. The Stark split levels for the first nine Ho manifolds in these materials have been measured, and the results have been fit to a free ion plus crystal field Hamiltonian to generate a theoretical set of energy levels. Crystal field parameters were varied to determine the best fit between experimental and theoretical energy levels. The energy levels of Ho:LuAG are seen to be very similar to those in Ho:YAG. However, subtle changes resulting from replacing Y(sup 3+) with Lu(sup 3+) in the garnet crystal Y3Al5O12 result in different transition wavelengths in LuAG. This has implications for Ho (sup 5)I7yields (sup 5)I8 lasers operating at approximately 2.1 micrometers. Although the energy levels have been measured previously in Ho:YAG, they have not been measured in Ho:LuAG. A comparison of the energy levels in Ho:YAG measured here show some discrepancies with previous measurements. The consistency of the energy level placement between Ho:LuAG and Ho:YAG indicate that the earlier studies may have some errors in the assignments. Finally, a Judd-Ofelt analysis is performed on Ho:YAG and Ho:LuAG to determine the intensity parameters, and thus, the transition probabilities and branching ratios of the first eight excited manifolds.
Impaired axonal transport and altered axolemmal permeability occur in distinct populations of damaged axons following traumatic brain injury

Traumatic axonal injury (TAI) evolves within minutes to hours following traumatic brain injury (TBI). Previous studies have identified axolemmal disruption and impaired axonal transport (AxT) as key mechanisms in the evolution of TAI. While initially hypothesized that axolemmal disruption culminates in impaired AxT, previous studies employed single-label methodologies that did not allow for a full determination of the spatial-temporal relationships of these two events. To explore directly the relationship between impaired AxT and altered axolemmal permeability, the current investigation employed 40, 10, and 3 kDa fluorescently conjugated dextrans as markers of axolemmal integrity, with antibodies targeting the anterogradely transported amyloid precursor protein (APP) utilized as a marker of impaired AxT. Rats underwent impact acceleration TBI and were intrathecally administered 40 kDa, 40 + 10 kDa or 40 + 3 kDa fluorescently tagged dextrans, with brains subsequently prepared for APP immunofluorescence. Brainstem corticospinal tracts (CSpT), medial lemnisci (ML), and medial longitudinal fasciculi were examined for evidence of TAI. APP and all dextrans consistently localized to distinct classes of TAI. Dextrans were noted as early as 5 min following injury within axonal segments demonstrating an irregular/tortuous appearance, and were seen within thin and elongate/vacuolated axons by 30 min-6 h following injury. APP, first noted within swollen axons at 30 min following injury, was found within progressively swollen axons that showed no dextran colocalization within 3 h of injury. However, by 6 h, dextrans colocalized in disconnected axonal bulbs. At this time-point, dextrans also persisted within single-labeled, highly vacuolated/thin, and elongate axons. These studies confirm that axolemmal disruption and impaired AxT occur as distinct non-related events early in the pathogenesis of TAI. Further, these studies provide evidence that the process of impaired axonal transport and subsequent axonal disconnection leads to delayed axolemmal instability, rather than proceeding as a consequence of initial axolemmal failure. This finding underscores the need of multiple approaches to fully assess the axonal response to TBI.
Flexible and Intelligent Learning Architectures for SoS (FILA-SoS): Architectural Evolution in Systems-of-Systems☆

Abstract The dynamic planning for a system-of-systems is a challenging endeavor. Department of Defense (DoD) programs constantly face challenges to incorporate new systems and upgrade existing systems over a period of time under threats, constrained budget, and uncertainty. It is therefore necessary for the DoD to be able to look at the future scenarios and critically assess the impact of technology and stakeholder changes. The DoD currently is looking for options that signify affordable acquisition selections and lessen the cycle time for early acquisition and new technology addition. This paper gives an overview of a novel methodology known as the Flexible Intelligent & Learning Architectures in System-of-Systems (FILA-SoS). This approach allows for analyzing sequential decisions in evolving SoS architectures. An ISR SoS example illustrates an application of the method.
Wide-area hyperspectral chemical plume detection using parallel random sampling

We present a multistage anomaly detection algorithm suite and suggest its application to chemical plume detection using hyperspectral (HS) imagery. This approach is proposed to handle underlying difficulties (e.g., plume shape/scale uncertainties) facing the development of autonomous anomaly detection algorithms. The approach features four stages: (i) scene random sampling, which does not require secondary information (shape and scale) about potential effluent plumes; (ii) anomaly detection; (iii) parallel processes, which are introduced to mitigate the inclusion by chance of potential plume samples into clutter background classes; and (iv) fusion of results. The probabilities of taking plume samples by chance within the parallel processes are modeled by the binomial distribution family, which can be used to assist on tradeoff decisions. Since this approach relies on the effectiveness of its core anomaly detection technique, we present a compact test statistic for anomaly detection, which is based on an asymmetric hypothesis test. This anomaly detection technique has shown to preserve meaningful detections (genuine anomalies in the scene) while significantly reducing the number of meaningless detections (transitions of background regions). Results of a proof of principle experiment are presented using this approach to test real HS background imagery with synthetically embedded gas plumes. Initial results are encouraging.
Crossed Vestibular Connections in the Froc

The crossed vestibular root to the area statica and reticular formation was investigated in frogs by the electrophysiological method. The area statica formed by the nucleus magnocellularis and ventral nucleus presented spontaneous activity, which increased in frequency and amplitude with both clockwise and counter-clockwise rotatory stimulation. In addition, the nucleus magnocellularis responded to acoustic stimuli. Labyrinthectomy carried out in several ways demonstrated that signals arising in one semicircular canal were transmitted to the area statica of both sides. An extensive area of the reticular formation of both sides exhibited spontaneous activity, which also increased in frequency and amplitude with both clockwise and counter-clockwise rotatory stimulation. The results showed that the signals from one lateral semicircular canal are transmitted to the reticular formation of both sides. The lateral ampullary nerve at rest exhibited spontaneous activity, which increased in frequency and amplitude ...
Freshwater Bivalve Extinctions (Mollusca: Unionoida): A Search for Causes

The freshwater bivalves (Mollusca: Order Unionoida) are classified in six families and about 165 genera worldwide. Worldwide rate of extinction of freshwater bivalves is poorly understood at this time. The North American freshwater fauna north of Mexico is represented by 297 taxa in two families. There are 19 taxa presumed extinct, 44 species listed or proposed as federally endangered, and there are another 69 species that may be endangered. A number of these endangered species are functionally extinct (individuals of a species surviving but not reproducing). Extinction of North American unionoid bivalves can be traced to impoundment and inundation of riffle habitat in major rivers such as the Ohio, Tennessee and Cumberland and Mobile Bay Basin. Damming resulted in the local loss of the bivalves' host fish. This loss of the obligate host fish, coupled with increased siltation, and various types of industrial and domestic pollution have resulted in the rapid decline in the unionoid bivalve fauna in North America. Freshwater communities in Europe have experienced numerous problems, some local unionoid populations have been extirpated, but no unionoid species are extinct. Three taxa from Israel are now reported as extinct. Other nations such as China that have problems with soil erosion and industrial pollution or have numerous dams on some of the rivers ( e.g. , South America: Rio Parana) are probably experiencing problems of local extirpation if not the extinction of their endemic freshwater bivalve fauna.
SU‐E‐T‐538: A Quantitative Evaluation of TomoTherapy Lung SBRT Set‐Up Accuracy

Purpose: The TomoTherapy Hi Art system uses daily megavoltage cone beam computed tomography (MVCT) to help ensure accurate patient positioning for lung stereotactic body radiotherapy(SBRT). In this study we evaluate the accuracy and precision associated with registering daily TomoTherapy MVCT's to kilovoltage CT (kVCT) images acquired at simulation for lungSBRT. Methods: Volumetric images were retrospectively analyzed in MIMVista for 10 patients who received lungSBRT at our institution. The MVCT's were used to define gross tumor volume (GTV). Internal target volumes (ITV) were defined on kVCT from 10 phase‐binned 4DCT. The MVCT's were fused to the kVCT's by a mutual‐information technique and cross‐checked for accuracy. Registration was evaluated by 1) displacement of the GTV centroids from the ITV centroids and 2) measuring the extent of the GTV outside of the ITV. This analysis was also carried out on a novel 4D lung phantom with 3 non‐ coplanar lesions moving at 18 breaths per minute with +/−5mm displacement. One reference kVCT and 10 MVCT's were acquired, and fusion was achieved using 3 fixed radio‐opaque markers. Results: The average extent of the patient GTV's outside of the ITV's was 3.5 +/− 1.1 mm, with a maximum extent of 8.3 mm. The average centroid variation was 3.3 +/− 1.3 mm, with a maximum variation of 8.0 mm. The average extent of the phantom GTV's outside of the ITV's was 1.9 +/− 0.5 mm, with a maximum extent of 4.4 mm. The average centroid variation was 2.4 +/− 0.6 mm, with a maximum variation of 3.1 mm. Conclusions: The phantom setup showed an uncertainty of 2–3 mm for the TomoTherapy MVCT registration process. The patient data showed an uncertainty of 3–4 mm. This suggests that a margin of at least 3–4 mm around the ITV is required for TomoTherapy lungSBRT cases.
Local Plastic Deformation and Failure Behavior of Nd:YAG Laser Welds in AA5182-O and AA6111-T4

An experimental methodology that quantifies tensile properties and damage accumulation in Nd:YAG laser welds in aluminum sheet metals is presented. Coupons identified as AA5182-O and AA6111-T4, with bead-on-plate and lap welds in various configurations, were quasi-statically strained to fracture in a miniature tensile stage. Two-dimensional strain fields, measured with a state-of-the-art digital image correlation (DIC) algorithm, served as the basis for the calculation of true stress–true strain behavior and the salient tensile properties of the weld materials. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis provided estimates of fracture strength, while ultrasonic microscopy was used to quantify weld porosity and establish a qualitative linkage with observed deformation behavior. Although containing substantial porosity, the AA5182-O all-weld material was found to have greater ductility than the AA6111-T4 material. The nominal strength of the AA5182-O/AA6111-T4 lap welds exceeded that of welds in AA6111-T4/AA5182-O, up to 50 pct strain. This suggests that bimaterial lap-weld strength at large plastic strains is dependent upon the placement of each Al alloy relative to the laser beam. Atomic force microscopy confirmed that fracture consistently occurred along weld/base metal interfaces, irrespective of the alloy type.
Sexual Activity with Romantic and Nonromantic Partners and Psychosocial Adjustment in Young Adults

The present study examined whether positive or negative links occur between psychosocial adjustment and sexual activity with four types of partners—romantic partners, friends, acquaintances, and friends with benefits. We examined longitudinal associations and concurrent between-person and within-person associations. A representative sample of 185 participants (93 males, 92 females), their friends, and mothers completed questionnaires when the participants were 2.5, 4, and 5.5 years out of high school. Regardless of the type of partner, more frequent sexual activity relative to the sexual activity of other young adults was associated with more substance use and risky sexual behavior (i.e., between-person effects). Similarly, for all types of nonromantic partners, more frequrent sexual activity relative to one’s own typical sexual activity was associated with more substance use and risky sexual behavior (i.e., within-person effects). Differences in frequency of sexual activity with friends and acquaintances were associated with greater internalizing and externalizing symptoms as well as lower self-esteem. Follow-up analyses revealed the associations were particularly strong for friends with benefits. Women’s sexual activity frequency with a nonromantic partner was more commonly associated with poorer psychosocial adjustment than such activity by men. More frequent sexual activity with a romantic partner was associated with higher self-esteem and lower internalizing symptoms. Few long-term effects were found for any type of sexual activity. The findings underscore the importance of examining relationship context and illustrate the value of using multiple analytic strategies for identifying the precise nature of associations.
A spatial, kinematical, and dynamical analysis of Abell 400

The paper presents a detailed spatial, kinematical, and dynamical analysis for the cluster A400, based on a nearly complete redshift survey of bright galaxies within 1 Mpc of the cluster center. A dispersed component with a high fraction of spiral galaxies at a velocity of 8200 km/s, and a background group with a mean velocity of 13,400 km/s are identified. It is proposed that the main body of A400 is composed of at least two individual subclusters. If subclustering is ignored, the derived dispersion of the 88 galaxies with measured velocities within 4000 km/s of the bright dumbbell galaxy near the cluster center is 702 km/s. When kinematic information is used to split A400 into likely subclusters, the velocity dispersions of the individual units which make up this cluster are on the order of 200-300 km/s. If A400 is considered a single entity, the inferred blue mass-to-light ratio is 1210 solar masses/solar luminosities. It is argued that A400 is an example of a presently occurring merger, and that the individual components of the dumbbell galaxy were once individual D galaxies within the premerger subclusters.
Delegation in paediatric anaesthesia: a postal survey.

Background: We wished to determine a consensus view from UK paediatric anaesthetic consultants of what practical skills are safe and appropriate for an anaesthetic trainee to perform during an initial 3-month module in paediatric anaesthesia. Methods: A postal survey was sent to all UK and Ireland members of the Association of Paediatric Anaesthetists (APA). This questionnaire was designed to determine which tasks were delegated to trainee anaesthetists. Two hundred and four questionnaires were despatched, replies were received from 165 consultant anaesthetists (80% response rate). Results: More than 50% of the APA respondents would always or regularly allow an anaesthetic trainee in their first 3-month module in paediatric anaesthesia to perform; an ilioinguinal block, a penile block and a caudal (but not in a neonate). Conclusions: Anaesthetic registrars undertaking an initial module in paediatric anaesthesia should learn basic airway management, ilioinguinal blocks, penile blocks and caudals (but not neonatal caudals).
Scaling theory and solutions for the steady-state coagulation and settling of fractal aggregates in aquatic systems

Coagulation and gravitational settling are two of the most important physical processes affecting the fate of particulate matter in natural aquatic environments. Mathematical models of these two processes typically assume that particles coalesce into spheres upon sticking. However, natural aggregates are more often fractal in character, and this aspect of aggregate structure can dramatically affect both the coagulation and settling process. In this paper, we investigate the steady-state coagulation and settling of fractal aggregates in water. A family of solutions is found for a specific form of the coagulation kernel, and a more general scaling theory is presented for any coagulation kernel that is a homogeneous function of its arguments. From this scaling theory, simple power-law expressions are derived for the depth (z) evolution of the total aggregate concentration (N∞ ∼ z -γ ), the particle volume fraction (Φ ∼ z -e ), and the average aggregate volume (v ∼ z γ-e ). The exponents γ and e in these expressions can be calculated for any particular system from the fractal dimension (D) of aggregates undergoing coagulation and the homogeneity constant (λ) of the coagulation mechanism. These results are used to analyze the particle volume distributions published previously for Lake Zurich, Switzerland [U. Weilenmann, C.R. O'Melia and W. Stumm, Linmol. Oceanogr., 34 (1989) 1]. We find that the total aggregate concentration data can be fit to a power-law expression, and that the resulting exponent is consistent with a degree of homogeneity for coagulation in the lake between diffusion-limited (λ=0) and reaction-limited (λ=1) aggregation. The volume fraction data also can be fit to a power-law expression, but the resulting homogeneity constant is much larger (λ>1.4), perhaps reflecting the removal of large aggregates from the water column by filter feeding organisms.
Comment: The Essential Tension between Parsimony and Accuracy

Goodman and Hout present a new set of powerful statistical methods for comparing two-way associations across a third dimension. Providing a unifying framework that encompasses earlier attempts proposed by Yamaguchi (1987) and Xie (1992), this paper is highly significant and as such will have a long-term impact on the way multidimensional contingency tables are analyzed in the future. The main message of Goodman and Hout's article is an important one and is worth reiterating here. For a three-way cross-tabulation of row (R), column (C), and layer (L), indexed respectively by subscripts i (1, ... I), j (1, ... J), and k (1, ... K), the expected frequency under the saturated model can be written as