bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Prospective Comparison Study of Different Methods of Gathering Self‐Reported Family History Information for Breast Cancer Risk Assessment
Authors: Benjamin Caroline , Booth Katie , Ellis Ian
Published: April 2003

Currently there is much debate regarding the ability of mathematical models incorporating epidemiological information or mutation‐based risk algorithms to accurately predict a woman's risk of developing breast cancer. Without access to accurate family history information these models have limited use. This study compares different methods of gathering family history information and the impact on subsequent risk assessment. These methods were compared to the “gold standard” interview with a trained genetics' professional. The amount and accuracy of information provided by primary care doctors' letters was found to be poor and better information was obtained by sending a postal questionnaire directly to the patient. Because of the high number of low‐risk women referred to clinic a questionnaire (the FCAT) was designed to provide reassurance and piloted as part of this study. This paper highlights the importance of using appropriate methods to gather the family history information. It presents evidence for the importance of a skilled assessor and the need to allow time for women to discuss the importance of this information with their family.
Experiential Family Therapy: An Innovative Approach to the Resolution of Family Conflict in Genetic Counseling
Authors: Tuttle Lisa C.
Published: April 2003

Experiential family therapy is an intuitive approach that utilizes active, multisensory techniques. These techniques, such as role plays and drawings, increase the family's expression of affect and uncover new information. Increased affect and uncovered information stimulate change and growth in the family system. Experiential techniques are especially useful when more traditional, verbal‐based communication is not effective. In this article, I will present a pediatric case in which the patient, a 7‐year‐old boy diagnosed with autism, was referred to the genetics clinic to rule out the presence of an associated genetic disorder. I will then describe a hypothetical second counseling session with the same family and suggest how three experiential family therapy techniques: family drawing, “empty chair” technique, and continuums might be used in the session to help resolve a marital conflict between the patient's parents.
Interventions for trauma‐related emotional disturbances in adult victims of crime
Authors: Hembree Elizabeth A. , Foa Edna B.
Published: April 2003

This paper provides an overview of several treatment interventions for trauma‐related disturbances in adult victims of crime. Following a brief discussion of mental health service utilization among crime victims, we describe interventions for acute and chronic reactions to trauma. We present some controlled studies of psychosocial treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that have gained empirical support and are recommended as first line interventions by expert consensus (E. B. Foa, J. R. T. Davidson, & A. Francis, 1999) including exposure therapy, cognitive therapy, and stress inoculation training, followed by a brief summary of selected studies examining the efficacy of pharmacological treatment for PTSD. Finally, we discuss multicultural issues, factors associated with treatment outcome, and challenges we have encountered in treating crime victims.
Reproductive Genetic Counseling to Asian‐Pacific and Latin American Immigrants
Authors: Mittman Ilana , Crombleholme William R. , Green James R. , Golbus Mitchell S.
Published: April 2003

Latin and Asian‐Pacific immigrants are the fastest growing new‐comer groups in the U.S. contributing to 85% of immigration totals. New immigrants experience multiple barriers to accessing genetic counseling resulting from cultural, linguistic, financial, and educational factors as well as having unique perceptions on health, illness, reproduction, and life as a whole. In addition, new immigrants lack familiarity with Western medical practices as well as genetic risk and available interventions. We provided perinatal genetic services to 2430 clients, mostly new immigrants of Latin and Asian‐Pacific descent over a period of 6 years. Counseling aides sharing the clients' cultural backgrounds were employed. A study assessing the efficacy of cross‐cultural education regarding advanced maternal age risk and amniocentesis was implemented and linked to a database containing demographic and clinical information. Practical observations relating to cultural beliefs in the two groups relevant to perinatal genetic counseling were made.
Contextual Factors Affecting the Organizational Commitment of Diverse Police Officers: A Levels of Analysis Perspective
Authors: Morris Anne , Shinn Marybeth , DuMont Kimberly
Published: April 2003

This study examined the relationship of contextual factors to organizational commitment among 372 police officers in 13 police commands in New York City's public housing projects. Setting‐level variables were formed by aggregating officers' perceptions of management support and fairness and management sensitivity to diversity within commands and within three subgroups formed by gender and ethnicity. Individual‐level measures were deviations from these subgroup means within commands as well as perceptions of support from family and social support and negative interactions within commands. Overall, path analyses, confirmed by hierarchical linear modeling, showed direct setting‐level effects for management support and fairness, but not for sensitivity to diversity, on organizational commitment. Both women and minority men experienced more negative social interactions than white men; support from management, co‐workers, and family were important predictors of commitment. Family support was particularly important for women.
Biochemical and molecular studies in 26 Spanish patients with congenital disorder of glycosylation type Ia
Authors: Briones P. , Vilaseca M. A. , Schollen E. , Ferrer I. , Maties M. , Busquets C. , Artuch R. , Gort L. , Marco M. , van Schaftingen E. , Matthijs G. , Jaeken J. , Chabás A.
Published: April 2003

Summary: We present our experience with the diagnosis of 26 patients (19 families) with congenital disorders of glycosylation classified as type Ia due toPMM deficiency. In all but one of these CDG Ia families the patients are compound heterozygous for mutations in PMM2. Eighteen different mutations were detected. In contrast to other series in which R141H represents 43–50% of the alleles, only 9/36 (25%) alleles have this mutation. Two mutations (R123Q andT237M) have been found on three disease chromosomes, four (V44A, Y64C, P113L and F207S) on two disease chromosomes and 12 mutations (D65Y, Y76C, IVS3+2C>T, E93A, R123X, V129M, I153T, F157S, E197A, N216I, T226S, C241S) only on one disease chromosome. V44A and D65Y probably originated in the Iberian peninsula, as they have only been reported in Portuguese and Latin‐American patients; Y64C, Y76C, R123X and F207S have not been detectedin other patients. R123X is the only stop codon mutation so far describedin PMM2. The common European F119L mutation has not been found in our patients, although it is very frequent in other populations (43% allele frequency in Danish patients). Probably because of this genetic heterogeneity, Spanish patients show very diverse phenotypes that are, in general, milder than in other series. This pointsto the necessity of widening the criteria for CDG in the routine screening for inborn metabolic diseases.
A novel 6 bp insertion in exon 7 associated with an unusual phenotype in a family with Fabry disease
Authors: Kroepfl Th. , Paul K. , Kotanko P. , Plecko B. , Paschke E.
Published: April 2003

Summary: A male patient presented with oligosymptomatic Fabry disease (end stage renal failure and non‐obstructive cardiomyopathy) at around 30 years of age. His leukocyte α‐galactosidase activity (α‐gal) was 2.6% of controls. A 50‐year‐old sister had similar cardiac symptoms and her asymptomatic heterozygous daughter (33 years) had normal enzyme activity.

All three patients carried a novel, 6bp insertion on exon 7 of the AGAL gene. The majority of male Fabry patients carrying mutations in exon 7 have residual α‐gal below 1% and suffer from neuropathic pain. Comparable oligosymptomatic phenotypes in Caucasian patients carry a common mutation on exon 6 (R301Q) and have a significantly later onset.

The course of the disease is likely to be altered by recombinant enzyme therapy in the future. Therefore, a thorough documentation of phenotypes, residual activities and underlying genotypes is of current interest.
Case Report: A Systems Approach to Genetic Counseling for Albinism
Authors: Kim Kathryn Spitzer
Published: April 2003

A systems approach to family therapy assumes that a person and his/her problems do not operate in a social vacuum but instead are imbedded in a social context. This context includes fairly small social systems such as a nuclear family and larger social systems such as school systems and cultural beliefs. A case of a girl with albinism born to a couple from India will be used to discuss how a systems approach might be useful in a genetic counseling setting.
Acculturation in Women with Mental Retardation and Its Impact on Genetic Counseling
Authors: Finucane Brenda
Published: April 2003

The provision of genetic counseling to women with mild mental retardation poses many challenges, some directly related to their developmental and cognitive disabilities. Traditional genetic counseling models, in which decision‐making is largely based on the understanding of factual information, are particularly affected by the intellectual limitations which characterize this population. Equally important, however, are these women's attitudes, perceptions, and behaviors related to their involuntary inclusion into a highly stigmatized social group. Common themes among these women which surface in the genetic counseling setting include the denial of mental retardation, a hierarchical perception of their own and others' disabilities, and a strong motivation to conceive and parent a child. Such attitudes and behaviors may be symptomatic of acculturation, as these women struggle to take on accepted social roles while rejecting the stigma of intellectual disability. In contrast to factual information, the counselee's ability to discuss emotions and perceptions is not necessarily hampered by her intellectual limitations. A focus on the recognition and discussion of psychosocial issues provides a more meaningful approach than traditional genetic counseling models for facilitating informed reproductive decisions among women with mental retardation.
Clinical features of galactokinase deficiency:A review of the literature
Authors: Bosch A. M. , Bakker H. D. , van Gennip A. H. , van Kempen J. V. , Wanders R. J. A. , Wijburg F. A.
Published: April 2003

Summary: Galactokinase deficiency (McKusick 230200) is a rare autosomal recessive inborn error of galactose metabolism. Cataract and, rarely, pseudotumor cerebri caused by galactitol accumulation seem to be the only consistently reported abnormalities in this disorder. We performed a literature search to obtain information on the clinical spectrum of galactokinase deficiency. A total of 25 publications were traced describing 55 galactokinase‐deficient patients. Cataract was reported in most patients. Clinical abnormalities other than cataract were reported in 15 (35%) out of 43 cases on which information was available. However, all symptoms were reported infrequently and a causal relationship with the galactokinase deficiency is unlikely. As cataract and pseudotumor cerebri appear to be the sole complications of galactokinase deficiency, the outcome for patients with galactokinase deficiency is much better than for patients with classical galactosaemia (McKusick 230400), a more common autosomal recessive disorder of galactose metabolism caused by galactose‐1‐phosphate uridyltransferase (GALT; EC 2.7.7.12) deficiency. Long‐term follow‐up of patients with this disorder has shown that, in spite of a severely galactose‐restricted diet, most patients develop abnormalities such as a disturbed mental and/or motor development, dyspraxia and hypergonadotropic hypogonadism. Endogenous production of galactose has been considered an important aetiological factor. Although damage may well occur inutero, available evidence suggests that damage will continue after birth. Inhibition of galactokinase may then be a promising approach for controlling damage in GALT‐deficient patients.
Duty to Re‐Contact: A Study of Families at Risk for Fragile X
Authors: Bernard Lynn E. , McGillivray Barbara , Van Allen Margot I. , Friedman J. M. , Langlois Sylvie
Published: April 2003

DNA testing for Fragile X syndrome is now routinely available through a large number of diagnostic laboratories. We have surveyed individuals from British Columbia Fragile X families identified prior to the availability of DNA testing for FMR1 to determine if they are subsequently receiving information about DNA testing. Of the 78 individuals first seen before the cloning of the FMR1 gene, 39 (50%) had not been seen in the clinic to discuss DNA testing. We initiated a contact program with these 39 patients to determine their interest in DNA testing. Contact was made with 28 individuals, 20 of whom stated interest in testing either for themselves or for a relative. Patient opinions about DNA testing were assessed through questionnaires. In those individuals who stated an interest in DNA testing, the most common reason for wishing testing was to provide information to children or grandchildren. The most common disadvantages of testing indicated by this group were that they had finished their families and that they felt the test would not have a direct impact. The most common reasons individuals were not interested in DNA testing were that there were no family members appropriate to test and that the respondent had completed his or her family. DNA testing has been performed for 13 of the 28 (46%) contacted individuals and/or at least one relative. In view of the high level of interest for testing in families who had not been seen since the cloning of the FMR1 gene, we feel that FMR1 screening programs should include actively contacting previously seen individuals.
Mental health needs of crime victims: Epidemiology and outcomes
Authors: Kilpatrick Dean G. , Acierno Ron
Published: April 2003

This paper reviews epidemiological estimates of criminal victimization derived largely from nationally based studies in the United States. Origins of conflicting rates and prevalences are explained in terms of varying methodology. Risk factors for victimization, including age, race, gender, and disability, are also outlined, and derived from both national and geographically limited U.S.‐based studies. Finally, mental health outcomes of violence are documented, with conclusions drawing on both national and regionally specific studies. These outcomes focus on posttraumatic stress disorder, but also include depression, substance abuse, and panic.
Low back pain as a predictor of long-term work disability
Authors: Natvig BÅrd , Eriksen Willy , Bruusgaard Dag
Published: April 2003

Aim: To investigate low back pain (LBP), with and without other musculoskeletal pains, as a predictor of long-term work disability. Method: A four-year prospective study was conducted. All inhabitants in the municipality of Ullensaker, Norway, born in 1928-30, 1938-40, 1948-50, 1958-60 and 1968-70, received a mailed questionnaire in 1990 and 1994. The present study comprised the 1,788 responders who were working in 1990. Of these, 1426 (80%) returned the questionnaire four years later. The main outcome measure was long-term work disability (>eight weeks) in 1994. Results: LBP in 1990 predicted long-term work disability in 1994 (odds ratio (OR) = 1.95, 95% confidence interval (CI)= 1.39- 2.74 ) . Localized LBP however, did not predict long-term work disability, while LBP accompanied by widespread pain did (OR= 3.52, 95% CI = 1.09- 11.37) , also after adjustments for demographic, lifestyle, and work-related factors. Other predictors of long-term work disability were high age, sick leave last year, heavy lifting in the job, poor sleep quality and smoking. Conclusion: LBP in persons with widespread musculoskeletal pain predicted long-term work disability, while localized LBP did not.
Self-rated health and mortality among young men: what is the relation and how may it be explained?
Authors: Larsson Daniel , Hemmingsson Tomas , Allebeck Peter , Lundberg Ingvar
Published: April 2003

Aims: This study examined the relation between self-rated health (SRH) and mortality among young men, and factors in youth and adolescence that could explain the relation. Methods: Using logistic regression relative risks of mortality between various levels of self-rated health were compared in a longitudinal study of 49,321 men born in 1949-51, participating in a nationwide military conscription survey in 1969-70. Results: Poor self-rated health at conscription was associated with increased mortality during 27 years of follow up for those stating Rather poor or Very poor compared with those stating Very good SRH. SRH was most strongly related to alcohol- and drug-related mortality. Three psychological factors ( low emotional control, psychiatric diagnosis at conscription, and self-reported medication for nervous problems) were found to account for 84% of the increased mortality in the group stating Rather poor or Very poor SRH (remaining RR=1.1). However, the explanatory power of the psychologicalfactors was widely different for different diagnoses of death. Conclusions: Poor self-rated health among young men is a predictor of future mortality. Psychological factors seem to be important explanatory variables.
Is there an interaction between self-rated health and medication with analgesics and hypnotics in the prediction of disability pension?
Authors: MÅnsson Nils-Ove , Merlo Juan , Östergren Per-Olof
Published: April 2003

Aims: Several studies have shown that self-rated health (SRH) is associated with drug use. The aim of this study was to investigate the possible interaction between SRH and use of analgesics and hypnotics and its ability to predict disability pension. Methods: In 1974-78, complete birth-year cohorts of middle-aged male residents in Malmö, Sweden, were invited to a health screening, and the cohort in this study comprised 5,798 men with complete data followed up for 11 years. Results: At inclusion, 27% rated their health as less than perfect, 11% used analgesics, 3% used hypnotics and, during follow-up, 12% received a disability pension. The adjusted hazard ratios of disability pension were 3.1 (CI: 2.6, 3.6) for those who had rated their health as less than perfect and 2.7 (2.3, 3.2) for subjects who used analgesics and/or hypnotics. For subjects with the combined risk of poor SRH and medication, the hazard ratio was 5.5 (4.6, 6.5). The granting of disability pension attributable to the interaction between poor SRH and medication was estimated at 47%, which was statistically significant. Conclusions: Disability pension among middle-aged men was associated with self-rated health as well as medication and clear evidence of synergism between the two factors was found, while there were no indications of medication acting as a causal link between poor SRH and disability pension. Several mechanisms may contribute to the findings, but the information gained may be used as means to identify those at risk for disability pension.
Multiple roles? Nurses as managers in the NHS
Authors: Bolton Sharon C.
Published: April 2003

Recent government proposals seek to extend the role of nurses into management at a time of (yet another) cultural transformation for the British National Health Service (NHS). This is especially the case for line managers involved in service‐delivery, ward managers and clinical nurse managers for instance, roles typically undertaken by senior nurses. This paper aims to give some insight into the role of nurses as managers in the NHS hospital service. Data presented were collected as part of a longitudinal qualitative study, 1994 to date, in a North West trust hospital. The role of ward and unit management has significantly changed since the early images of the nurse as manager and it is hardly surprising that, given the fundamental shift in the framework of values and attitudes, senior nurses have greeted the management role with mixed feelings.
Handheld standing-wave generator
Authors: Hapka Alison
Published: April 2003

Before the evening demonstration show at the 1999 AAPT Summer Meeting, several participants were walking around with small-scale demonstrations to entertain the local children who were attending the show. One gentleman showed me an ingenious yet simple and compact device for generating standing waves on a string.
Demonstrations with a position-sensitive detector
Authors: Millet Peter J. , Khosropour Rosette
Published: April 2003

A laser and a position-sensitive detector reveal the resonance and damping of a loudspeaker and the periodic fluctuations in air density associated with sound waves. We describe the deflection of light by sound waves in tutorial form.
An old apparatus for physics teaching: Escriche’s pendulum
Authors: Vaquero José M. , Gallego M. C.
Published: April 2003

In this paper, we recover a forgotten apparatus invented by the Spanish physicist T. Escriche. The interest resides in the demonstration of the relation between the period of a pendulum and the gravity acceleration through his “pendulum of variable acceleration.”
A simulation of the Tacoma narrows bridge oscillations
Authors: Slogoff Harriet , Berner Bill
Published: April 2003

The famous collapse of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge in November of 1940 has been a topic of lively discussion ever since. The reasons for the collapse are complex, and in the past it has been treated as a case of destructive resonance and more recently as a case of aerodynamic self-excitation. We have developed a very simple real-time demonstration using a box supported with rubber bands and a fan that clearly shows how large oscillations can be generated in an unstable object with a simple air source.
Students as people
Authors: Mamola Karl C.
Published: April 2003

After more than two decades of spending the majority of my time on the administrative tasks of a department chair, occasionally teaching upper-level classes, I have rediscovered the joys of teaching introductory physics.
The hydrostatics of trapped bubbles in fluids
Authors: Gaffney Chris
Published: April 2003

It can be easily demonstrated that an air bubble trapped in a water-filled hose can cause the water surfaces at the ends of the hose to be at different heights. This note describes two aspects of this situation. A simple method is presented for “constructing” a bubble that makes the fact of different water heights at the tube ends intuitively obvious. A fairly detailed analysis is also given of the effect of the addition of water to the hose. This analysis and its experimental testing is quite appropriate as an experiment in a high school or introductory college setting.
Using the small-angle approximation to measure the index of refraction of water
Authors: Newburgh Ronald , Rueckner Wolfgang , Peidle Joseph , Goodale Douglass
Published: April 2003

We describe a simple experiment that allows us to measure the index of refraction of water by making a series of length measurements. The ratio of two length measurements gives the ratio of the tangent of the angle of incidence to that of the angle of refraction. As the angle of incidence decreases, so do the values of the tangents, and their values approach those of the sines. The limiting value of the ratio is equal to the index of refraction. Our results for water were an index value of 1.33 ± 0.01, an error of less than 1 percent. The method uses length measurements only and obviates all angle measurements.
Naked egg catch
Authors: Bouffard Karen
Published: April 2003

This is a do-ahead activity that challenges students to design a device that will catch an egg, dropped from increasing heights (beginning at least at 1 m), without breaking the egg.
From the postulates of relativity to the law of inertia
Authors: Hecht Eugene
Published: April 2003

While teaching special relativity, Newton’s first law is usually assumed and then superimposed on the first postulate via the introduction of “inertial reference frames.” By contrast, taking Einstein’s earliest and simplest statement of the postulates of relativity to be fundamentally true, it is possible to show that Newton’s formulation of the law of inertia follows as a consequence.
The best angle for dragging a box
Authors: van den Berg Willem H.
Published: April 2003

A combined theoretical-experimental exercise is described in which students predict how the coefficient of static friction and the direction of application of a force affect the minimum force needed to start an object sliding over a horizontal surface. This prediction is verified either by hanging weights on a cord or by pulling with a strain-gauge force sensor.
Estimating the distance to the horizon
Authors: Wickramasinghe Thulsi
Published: April 2003

A simple formula has been derived in order to obtain the distance to the horizon. If the height measured in feet of the observer is h, then the distance in miles to the horizon is shown to be the square root of 3h/2.
Quo Vadis astronomy (and physics!) education research?
Authors: Zeilik Michael
Published: April 2003

In the preface of Feynman’s Lectures on Physics, he confesses that “I don’t think I did very well by my students. When I look at the way the majority of students handled the problems on the examinations, I think the system is a failure.” I was flabbergasted when I reread that admission recently, because I had felt the same pessimism about my introductory astronomy classes. I suspect that many readers have explored that frustrated bleakness, too.
Teaching evolutionary processes to skeptical students
Authors: Bobrowsky Matthew
Published: April 2003

This article draws on current information from scientific and educational sources to provide an extremely useful summary of problems and solutions when teaching about evolutionary processes in physics and astronomy. The article addresses the process of science as described in position statements from professional organizations and actual experiences of instructors in the classroom as described at an AAS panel discussion.
Additional information for contributors
Authors: Mamola Karl C.
Published: April 2003

This editorial expands on the Information for Contributors published for authors contributing to The Physics Teacher. Potential authors are given a clearer understanding of the mission of the journal and additional guidelines in preparing manuscripts.
Racetrack physics
Authors: Putt Graeme D.
Published: April 2003

This article makes plausible assumptions to physically model the 1973 Kentucky Derby, won by the legendary U.S. turf champion Secretariat. A kinematics condition is prescribed to model the start-up of the race, leading to typical estimates of the exertion forces involved at start-up. Other dynamical factors involving racing around the turns, as well as drag effects and the advantage of cover in racing, are examined. Velocity-time graphs are given that can be used by teachers to illustrate their effectiveness to students.
Meet your new president: John Hubisz
Authors: Johnston Karen L.
Published: April 2003

Karen Johnston introduces the 2001 AAPT President, John L. Hubisz of North Carolina State University.
Water-drop projector
Authors: Planinsic Gorazd
Published: April 2003

This simple experiment involves observation of microorganisms in a drop of pond water. The explanation of the image formation in the paraxial region is given using geometrical optics.
Color mixing via polarization
Authors: Middleton A. Alan , Sampere Samuel
Published: April 2003

The investigation of light and vision are central to physics and important to building an understanding of technology. We describe an arrangement for a demonstration challenge that requires knowledge of polarization and color theory to predict the outcome. By rotating a single polarizer, the color of a ball varies from red through yellow to green.
A rotational dynamics problem with friction and calculus
Authors: Sherfinski John
Published: April 2003

A disk resting on a surface is pinned for rotation about a vertical axis and connected by a string wrapped about its edge to a suspended object. The acceleration is predicted by using calculus to determine the frictional torque.
A dialogue in paradise: John Milton’s visit with Galileo
Authors: Henderson Hugh
Published: April 2003

According to his 1644 speech, “Areopagitica,” the English poet John Milton visited Galileo in his villa in Arcetri in 1638 while Galileo was under house arrest for offending the Church authorities. This article explores the influences Galileo may have had on Milton’s writing as a result of the presumed meeting between the two, and discusses some similarities between Galileo’s Starry Messenger (1610) and Dialogue Concerning the Two Chief World Systems (1632) and Milton’s Paradise Lost (1667). Teachers and students of physics, astronomy, and li!!terature can benefit from studying connections such as these between science and the arts.
Slow roll
Authors: Bouffard Karen
Published: April 2003

This Physics Olympics event is a do-ahead project, one entry per team. Competing teams are to build a gravity-powered device that will travel 70 cm on a level track in a time closer to 5 min but not to exceed 5 1/2 min.
Physics teaching: Science and art
Authors: Mamola Karl
Published: April 2003

It is a naive view, of course, but I keep thinking that all students should like physics. And that large numbers of them should be eager to study it beyond the introductory course. Shouldn’t they find physics to be the most interesting of subjects?
Demonstrating and measuring the flexure of a masonry wall
Authors: MacIsaac Daniel L. , Nordstrand Michael
Published: April 2003

We describe a simple classroom optical lever that can be assembled from cheap and readily available equipment. The device is suitable for demonstrating the microscopic flexures of typical walls created by human-scale contact forces. This apparatus provides conceptual linkages and numeric data supporting Newton’s third law and is suitable for classroom use.
Two-charge dipole revisited
Authors: Weinstock Robert
Published: April 2003

A recent note, “Electric Field of a Two-Charge Dipole: A Graphical Approach Extended,” produces a well-known expression for merely the magnitude E of the dipole’s distant field E⃗. Further examination of the diagrams in that note, however, readily provides derivations of two orthogonal components of E⃗ in the plane containing the dipole and the field point — i.e., a derivation of E⃗ itself.
Physics teaching resource agent program
Authors: Badar Larry , Nelson Jim
Published: April 2003

As a result of the “Nation at Risk” report in 1983 and in response to the great concern for the state of high school science teaching, the leaders of the American Association of Physics Teachers began to think about having a program of professional growth led by high school teachers. A proposal for the “Development of Physics Teaching Resource Agents (PTRAs),” developed by Jack Wilson, Don Kirwan, and John Layman, and directed by Jim Nelson, was funded (1985-1989) by the National Science Foundation.
Surf physics
Authors: Edge Ronald
Published: April 2003

Just what is happening when a surfer taps into the energy of a breaking wave and rides to shore? It’s sport, it’s art, it’s skill, stamina, and drama. It is also physics — hydrodynamics, wave propagation, kinematics, and dynamics.
Encouragement of women physics majors at Grinnell College: A case study
Authors: Schneider Mark B.
Published: April 2003

I describe the various features of an effort to encourage and promote the study of physics by women undergraduates at Grinnell College over the past several years. Traditionally Grinnell has had about 20% women majors, but now women constitute half of our declared majors.
How do you use a magnifying glass?
Authors: Graf Erlend H.
Published: April 2003

At first blush, the title of this note may seem a little strange; doesn’t everyone know how to use a simple magnifier? Not if you believe what every elementary physics text I have ever seen says on the subject.
Lessons learned from Arnold Arons
Authors: Blanton Patricia
Published: April 2003

As the physics community mourns the passing of Arnold Arons, a pioneer in physics education, former AAPT president and Oersted Medal winner, and author of two very significant “instruction manuals” for physics teachers, I wanted to share with readers some of the lessons I’ve learned from this astute educator.
The mirror box
Authors: Thompson Gene , Mathieson Don
Published: April 2003

The mirror box is an old standby in magic shows and an impressive demonstration of the law of reflection for the physics instructor. The box creates the illusion of an object floating in space by the use of a plane mirror.
Temperature of a lightbulb filament
Authors: Denardo Bruce
Published: April 2003

A standard problem in introductory physics books is to use the temperature coefficient of resistivity to calculate the operating temperature of an incandescent lightbulb filament or heating wire. This assumes a linear variation of resistivity with temperature, which is shown to be significantly incorrect for a 120-V 60-W lightbulb. A discussion of this error can be included with a lecture calculation of the temperature.
Two boys and a can of coca-cola
Authors: Partensky Michael B.
Published: April 2003

A barometric analogy imposes a limit ∼10 meters for a height from which one can sip Coke through a straw from a can placed on the ground. How did Jeff manage to overcome this restriction without using anyone’s help or tools? One possible solution is offered.
A new Hooke’s law experiment
Authors: Menezes de Souza Lima Fabio , Venceslau Gustavo Mulim , Nunes Eliano dos Reis
Published: April 2003

In this note we propose an alternative approach to the experimental study of Hooke’s law that takes into account the variation of the elastic constant as a function of the initial length of the spring. We also present an adequate methodology to develop the analysis of graphics that students will obtain in a laboratory when they follow the new method suggested here.
Physics and technical characteristics of ultrasonic sonar systems
Authors: Maclsaac Dan , Hämäläinen Ari
Published: April 2003

Over the last 20 years, ultrasonic sonar technology has become more prevalent in teaching introductory mechanics laboratories. Hence, an awareness of the physics, measurement constraints, classroom limitations, and pedagogic practices underlying these systems is beneficial professional knowledge for introductory mechanics instructors. This article describes the physics behind these systems at length, discusses Polaroid system technical constraints and behaviors, and suggests solutions for common problematic classroom situations. Alternate classroom sonar systems and sonar-related curricula materials are also addressed.
Action-reaction at a distance
Authors: Brand Howard
Published: April 2003

Lenz’s law is used to demonstrate that Newton’s third law includes forces acting at a distance. The action-reaction pair is the force on a magnet falling through a conducting tube at terminal velocity, and a force on the tube.
Investigating gases' masses in impecunious classes
Authors: Talmage Graham Mark
Published: April 2003

This laboratory experiment for high school and undergraduate students involves measuring the molecular mass of gases with inexpensive apparatus used to pressurize sodas, to teach the ideal gas law.
Simple-pendulum lab with a twist
Authors: Szapiro Ben
Published: April 2003

An experimental technique to accurately monitor simple-pendulum motion using an MBL setup is discussed. A force probe is used to monitor the horizontal component of the tension in the string. Theory and experimental results are compared.
Peer Instruction: Results from a Range of Classrooms
Authors: Fagen Adam P. , Crouch Catherine H. , Mazur Eric
Published: April 2003

We surveyed Peer Instruction users worldwide to collect data on their experiences with the pedagogy. Force Concept Inventory pre- and post-test scores at a range of institutions show learning gains above the level for traditional pedagogies and consistent with interactive engagement.
Acoustic Waves in Planetary Atmospheres
Authors: Sanchez-Lavega A.
Published: April 2003

We present a study of the speed, Mach number, and intensity of sound waves in the atmospheres of the planets. These represent real examples of applied simple concepts of acoustics.
Obtaining equipment and resources for teaching physics
Authors: Blanton Patricia
Published: April 2003

The author offers suggestions for beginning teachers of physics who may be feeling a bit frustrated and disillusioned.
Physics appreciation versus physics knowledge
Authors: Roeder John L.
Published: April 2003

How well did John Adams learn his physics? Adams clearly had an appreciation of physics, but in his case was that enough?
Playing with bubbles
Authors: Gore Gordon R.
Published: April 2003

Hemispheric soap bubbles are always beautiful and captivating, fascinating us as we ponder this “world in miniature.” And now we can make “square” bubbles.
The jumping pencil
Authors: Gardner Martin
Published: April 2003

This trick uses a plastic bottle with a hole punched hear the bottom, a balloon, and a pencil.
Mirror levitations
Authors: Gardner Martin
Published: April 2003

The next time you are with a child in a department store where there are square pillars with tall mirrors on all four sides, you can astonish the child with this amusing bit of physics magic.
The electric grape
Authors: Gardner Martin
Published: April 2003

Make fireworks with a seedless grape and a microwave oven.
An Improved Archimedes Pump
Authors: Akoglu Resat
Published: April 2003

In this note we propose a slightly improved version of the Archimedes pump which was advertised as a toy model in The Physics Teacher. It consists of a hose wound densely around a tube (or pipe made of metallic or plastic material) which can be rotated mechanically (a hand driven one is the most primitive case as shown in the Picture 1) or electrically.
Temperature-Driven Convection
Authors: Bohan Richard J. , Vandegrift Guy
Published: April 2003

Warm air aloft is stable. This explains the lack of strong winds in a warm front and how nighttime radiative cooling can lead to motionless air that can trap smog. The stability of stratospheric air can be attributed to the fact that it is heated from above as ultraviolet radiation strikes the ozone layer. On the other hand, fluid heated from below is unstable and can lead to Bernard convection cells. This explains the generally turbulent nature of the troposphere, which receives a significant fraction of its heat directly from the Earth's warmer surface. The instability of cold fluid aloft explains the violent nature of a cold front, as well as the motion of Earth's magma, which is driven by radioactive heating deep within the Earth's mantle.1 This paper describes how both effects can be demonstrated using four standard beakers, ice, and a bit of food coloring.
What to Say About the Tacoma Narrows Bridge to Your Introductory Physics Class
Authors: Feldman Bernard J.
Published: April 2003

Having just taught my introductory physics class about the collapse of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge, I realized that this topic is fascinating both to the students and to me. I always show the video and it never fails to elicit numerous questions from the class. However, its treatment in most introductory physics textbooks is either at best inadequate or at worst misleading. By chance, I also recently heard a talk from the project manager of a proposed new bridge across the Mississippi River at St. Louis. The issues that led to the failure of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge played a major role in the design of this new bridge. These two events have led me to think about the physics of bridge oscillations and to write this paper, which is in large part an abridged version of the 1991 American Journal of Physics article by Billah and Scanlan,1 but it is clear to me that the content of that article has not permeated the physics community.
Constructing Knowledge
Authors: Blanton Patricia
Published: April 2003

Schools are expected to lay the foundation upon which knowledge can be built and equip students with the tools necessary to accomplish the construction. The role of the teacher in this building process is crucial to the type of structure the student can build. Whether you call it constructivism, discussion teaching, project-based learning, inquiry learning, or any of the other names given to the instructional strategies being suggested by education researchers, the key is getting students to become active participants in the process. While some students may be able to learn from eloquently delivered lectures and dynamic demonstrations, the majority of students cannot effectively retain and apply ideas communicated in this manner.
The History and Fate of the Universe:
Authors: Krauss Lawrence M.
Published: April 2003

Cosmology, the field that focuses on the origin and evolution of the universe on its largest scales, is undergoing what many have called a “golden era.” New observations, on the ground, in the air, and in space, combined with exciting new theoretical insights, have, over the past decade or two, literally revolutionized our picture of the universe in which we live. Ideas that were essentially pure speculation 20 years ago now rest firmly on the bedrock of experiment. At the same time, many new questions have arisen, and some once firmly held notions about the future of the universe have been displaced. In this article I present a guide to our current understanding of the history and fate of the universe to parallel and supplement the overview presented in the Contemporary Physics Education Project Cosmology Chart.
Experimental Determination of Absolute Zero Temperature
Authors: Trifonov Ivanov Dragia
Published: April 2003

Absolute zero temperature is one of the fundamental constants in physics. Its experimental determination is of great value to the teaching and understanding of physics. In this paper, we offer two ways of experimental determination of absolute zero. In the first case, the absolute zero is defined by means of an isochoric process (constant volume), conducted with a set amount of air closed in a regular jar. In the other case, the absolute zero is determined by means of an isobaric process (constant pressure) with air closed in a flask. The experiments are characterized by their accessibility and considerable precision of results.
The Image Between the Lenses: Activities with a Telescope and a Microscope
Authors: Cox A. J. , DeWeerd Alan J.
Published: April 2003

Perhaps the simplest optical instruments are the Keplerian (or astronomical) telescope and the compound microscope since they consist of only two converging lenses. Physics textbooks at a variety of levels describe the operation of both instruments in remarkably similar ways: The objective lens forms a real image which is then magnified by the eyepiece.1 We describe a set of activities designed to demonstrate to students that there actually is a real image between the lenses. These activities are primarily intended for liberal-arts physics courses, but they also may be useful for other physics, astronomy, and perhaps even biology courses. The telescope and the microscope discussed are intended to illustrate principles, not to be practical instruments.2
The Bungee Jumper: A Comparison of Predicted and Measured Values
Authors: Biezeveld Hubert
Published: April 2003

The greater-than-g acceleration of a bungee jumper discussed in a previous article in this journal by Kagan and Kott1 led to many lively discussions among Dutch physics teachers. These inspired me to look for an inexpensive experimental setup, suitable for use in a high school physics class, that can be used to confirm that indeed the acceleration is greater than g. In this paper I describe an exercise to compare the predicted and the measured graphs for the displacement y(t) of the jumper and the force Fb(t) exerted by the bungee on the bridge to which it is fastened. In my apparatus, the “bungee” consists of a light chain and the “jumper” is a small piece of brass. Data collection and the calculation of predicted values were carried out using Coach.2 The analysis reliably leads to the conclusion that the acceleration of the falling jumper does indeed exceed g.
Making waves: A classroom torsional wave machine (Part I)
Authors: Skeldon Kenneth D. , Milne Janet E. , Grant Alastair I. , Palmer David A.
Published: April 2003

We present a recipe for constructing a torsional wave machine and discuss its role as a teaching aid, developing the physics of design and operation as we go along. In this article, which forms the first installment of a two-part paper, we cover the dynamics of the wave machine, concluding with construction details of a machine with theatre-scale presence. In developing the design physics, we allude to many interesting demonstrations and experiments that can be performed; these will form the content of our companion article next month.
Refraction of diffracted light
Authors: Ouseph P. J.
Published: April 2003

The equipment is capable of demonstrating wavelength change of light in water, diffraction of light by a grating, and refraction of light. Wavelength change can be calculated from data collected using this equipment.
A proposal for experimental homework
Authors: Rodrı́guez Eduardo E.
Published: April 2003

Homework in Physics courses usually deal with conceptual inquiries or numerical solution of theoretical problems. However, experimental homework is rather uncommon. I propose that certain physical situations properly simulated may be useful to encourage students to seek a solution behind the steps of the “experimental method.”
A different twist on the Lorentz force and Faraday’s law
Authors: Layton Bill , Simon Martin
Published: April 2003

In this paper we describe some simple experiments involving the magnetic force on currents and electromagnetic induction.
Solitons
Authors: Edge Ron
Published: April 2003

What should an experimentalist do, arriving at a university with virtually no research equipment? Placed in this situation when I arrive here in 1958, I found water waves.
Sneezing, pixel spacing, and geometric optics
Authors: Müller Andreas
Published: April 2003

When looking at a color monitor through a refracting medium like a water droplet or a glass sphere, the individual color pixels become visible. It is shown how this qualitative observation (recently described in this journal) can be turned into an approximate measurement of the pixel distance ( the so-called dot pitch) by using nothing but the most common tools.
A cool(ing) idea
Authors: Takeuchi Takao
Published: April 2003

PASCO scientific’s radiation cube and an ohmmeter are used in Newton’s law of cooling experiment.
Thermal contraction and stretching
Authors: Hayn Carl H.
Published: April 2003

To reduce maintenance costs, continuous railroad tracks are replacing the 39-ft lengths. Expansion gaps are being eliminated by using a Thermit welding process.
Central collisions—The general case
Authors: Lyublinskaya Irina E.
Published: April 2003

The central elastic and inelastic collisions have been analyzed in general vector form. The proposed analysis results in equations, which have simple physical interpretation and can be easily applied to different special cases. The mathematical basis needed for the analysis includes only vector addition and dot-product of vectors. It allows teachers to introduce proposed approach to collisions already in trigonometry-based physic courses.
Concave liquid-mirror experiments
Authors: Graumann Hugo , Laue Hans
Published: April 2003

An apparatus for producing a rotating liquid parabolic mirror and a laser inclinometer for measuring the slope of the mirror at a given radial distance from the optical axis are described. Several first-year optics experiments that can be performed with the apparatus are described.