bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrode worksheet interface behaviour during resistance spot welding of Al alloy 5182
Authors: Rashid M. , Medley J. B. , Zhou Y.
Published: March 2009

Resistance spot welding of aluminium alloy 5182 with spherical tip electrodes was investigated. Surface interaction between electrode and worksheet was focussed to understand the pitting behaviour of electrode. Both experimental work and finite element analysis were employed. It was found that the interaction between electrode tip and worksheet surface that occurred during the load ‘squeezing’ phase of the welding sequence of resistance spot welding process had a significant effect on the electrode pitting behaviour. At this interface, squeezing caused surface shear stress that strongly suggested the possibility of slip at the periphery of the contact region. This suggestion of slip was consistent with disrupted oxide layer and reduced electrical contact resistance near the periphery of the contact. At the beginning of the current phase, current concentrated near the periphery caused high constriction resistance which resulted in alloying, pickup and eventually pitting of electrode in a ring around the contact centre.
A eukaryotic initiation factor 5C is upregulated during metamorphosis in the cotton bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera
Authors: Dong Du-Juan , Wang Jin-Xing , Zhao Xiao-Fan
Published: March 2009

Background

The orthologs of eukaryotic initiation factor 5C (eIF5C) are essential to the initiation of protein translation, and their regulation during development is not well known.

Results

A cDNA encoding a polypeptide of 419 amino acids containing an N-terminal leucine zipper motif and a C-terminal eIF5C domain was cloned from metamorphic larvae of Helicoverpa armigera. It was subsequently named Ha-eIF5C. Quantitative real-time PCR (QRT-PCR) revealed a high expression of the mRNA of Ha-eIF5C in the head-thorax, integument, midgut, and fat body during metamorphosis. Immunohistochemistry suggested that Ha-eIF5C was distributed into both the cytoplasm and the nucleus in the midgut, fat body and integument. Ha-eIF5C expression was upregulated by 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E). Furthermore, the transcription of Ha-eIF5C was down regulated after silencing of ecdysteroid receptor (EcR) or Ultraspiracle protein (USP) by RNAi.

Conclusion

These results suggested that during metamorphosis of the cotton bollworm, Ha-eIF5C was upregulated by 20E through the EcR and USP transcription factors.
residues implicated in the formation K+ and Na+ ion channels effector toxins
Authors: Soli Rima , Kaabi Belhassen , Barhoumi Mourad , El-Ayeb Mohamed , Srairi-Abid Najet
Published: March 2009

Background

K+and Na+channel toxins constitute a large set of polypeptides, which interact with their ion channel targets. These polypeptides are classified in two different structural groups. Recently a new structural group calledbirtoxin-like appeared to contain both types of toxins has been described. We hypothesized that peptides of this group may contain two conserved structural motifs in K+and/or Na+channels scorpion toxins, allowing thesebirtoxin-likepeptides to be active on K+and/or Na+channels.

Results

Four multilevel motifs, overrepresented and specific to each group of K+and/or Na+ion channel toxins have been identified, using GIBBS and MEME and based on a training dataset of 79 sequences judged as representative of K+and Na+toxins.

Unexpectedlybirtoxin-like peptides appeared to present a new structural motif distinct from those present in K+and Na+channels Toxins. This result, supported by previous experimental data, suggests thatbirtoxin-like peptides may exert their activity on different sites than those targeted by classic K+or Na+toxins.

Searching, thenrdatabase with these newly identified motifs using MAST, retrieved several sequences (116 with e-value < 1) from various scorpion species (test dataset). The filtering process left 30 new and highly likely ion channel effectors.

Phylogenetic analysis was used to classify the newly found sequences. Alternatively, classification tree analysis, using CART algorithm adjusted with the training dataset, using the motifs and their 2D structure as explanatory variables, provided a model for prediction of the activity of the new sequences.

Conclusion

The phylogenetic results were in perfect agreement with those obtained by the CART algorithm.

Our results may be used as criteria for a new classification of scorpion toxins based on functional motifs.
Distinct gene subsets in pterygia formation and recurrence: dissecting complex biological phenomenon using genome wide expression data
Authors: Tong Louis , Chew Jaime , Yang Henry , Ang Leonard PK , Tan Donald TH , Beuerman Roger W
Published: March 2009

Background

Pterygium is a common ocular surface disease characterized by fibrovascular invasion of the cornea and is sight-threatening due to astigmatism, tear film disturbance, or occlusion of the visual axis. However, the mechanisms for formation and post-surgical recurrence of pterygium are not understood, and a valid animal model does not exist. Here, we investigated the possible mechanisms of pterygium pathogenesis and recurrence.

Methods

First we performed a genome wide expression analysis (human Affymetrix Genechip, >22000 genes) with principal component analysis and clustering techniques, and validated expression of key molecules with PCR. The controls for this study were the un-involved conjunctival tissue of the same eye obtained during the surgical resection of the lesions. Interesting molecules were further investigated with immunohistochemistry, Western blots, and comparison with tear proteins from pterygium patients.

Results

Principal component analysis in pterygium indicated a signature of matrix-related structural proteins, including fibronectin-1 (both splice-forms), collagen-1A2, keratin-12 and small proline rich protein-1. Immunofluorescence showed strong expression of keratin-6A in all layers, especially the superficial layers, of pterygium epithelium, but absent in the control, with up-regulation and nuclear accumulation of the cell adhesion molecule CD24 in the pterygium epithelium. Western blot shows increased protein expression of beta-microseminoprotein, a protein up-regulated in human cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. Gene products of 22 up-regulated genes in pterygium have also been found by us in human tears using nano-electrospray-liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry after pterygium surgery. Recurrent disease was associated with up-regulation of sialophorin, a negative regulator of cell adhesion, andnever in mitosis a-5, known to be involved in cell motility.

Conclusion

Aberrant wound healing is therefore a key process in this disease, and strategies in wound remodeling may be appropriate in halting pterygium or its recurrence. For patients demonstrating a profile of 'recurrence', it may be necessary to manage as a poorer prognostic case and perhaps, more adjunctive treatment after resection of the primary lesion.
Relationship between body adiposity measures and risk of primary knee and hip replacement for osteoarthritis: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Wang Yuanyuan , Simpson Julie Anne , Wluka Anita E , Teichtahl Andrew J , English Dallas R , Giles Graham G , Graves Stephen , Cicuttini Flavia M
Published: March 2009

Introduction

Total joint replacement is considered a surrogate measure for symptomatic end-stage osteoarthritis. It is unknown whether the adipose mass and the distribution of adipose mass are associated with the risk of primary knee and hip replacement for osteoarthritis. The aim of the present investigation was to examine this in a cohort study.

Methods

A total of 39,023 healthy volunteers from Melbourne, Australia were recruited for a prospective cohort study during 1990 to 1994. Their body mass index, waist circumference, and waist-to-hip ratio were obtained from direct anthropometric measurements. The fat mass and percentage fat were estimated from bioelectrical impedance analysis. Primary knee and hip replacements for osteoarthritis between 1 January 2001 and 31 December 2005 were determined by data linkage to the Australian Orthopaedic Association National Joint Replacement Registry. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to estimate the hazard ratios (HRs) for primary joint replacement associated with each adiposity measure.

Results

Comparing the fourth quartile with the first, there was a threefold to fourfold increased risk of primary joint replacement associated with body weight (HR = 3.44, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 2.83 to 4.18), body mass index (HR = 3.44, 95% CI = 2.80 to 4.22), fat mass (HR = 3.51, 95% CI = 2.87 to 4.30), and percentage fat (HR = 2.99, 95% CI = 2.46 to 3.63). The waist circumference (HR = 2.77, 95% CI = 2.26 to 3.39) and waist-to-hip ratio (HR = 1.46, 95% CI = 1.21 to 1.76) were less strongly associated with the risk. Except for the waist-to-hip ratio, which was not significantly associated with hip replacement risk, all adiposity measures were associated with the risk of both knee and hip joint replacement, and were significantly stronger risk factors for knee.

Conclusions

Risk of primary knee and hip joint replacement for osteoarthritis relates to both adipose mass and central adiposity. This relationship suggests both biomechanical and metabolic mechanisms associated with adiposity contribute to the risk of joint replacement, with stronger evidence at the knee rather than the hip.
Fluorine-18-Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography for Interim Response Assessment of Advanced-Stage Hodgkin's Lymphoma and Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma: A Systematic Review
Authors: Terasawa Teruhiko , Lau Joseph , Bardet Stéphane , Couturier Olivier , Hotta Tomomitsu , Hutchings Martin , Nihashi Takashi , Nagai Hirokazu
Published: March 2009

Purpose

To systematically review the prognostic accuracy of fluorine-18-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) for interim response assessment of patients with untreated advanced-stage Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL) or diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL).

Methods

MEDLINE, EMBASE, SCOPUS, and Biologic Abstracts were searched for relevant studies. Two assessors independently reviewed studies for inclusion and extracted data. Relevant unpublished data were requested from the investigators if unavailable from publications. A meta-analysis of the prognostic accuracy was performed.

Results

Thirteen studies involving 360 advanced-stage HL patients and 311 DLBCL patients met our inclusion criteria. Advanced-stage HL studies included few unfavorable-risk patients. DLBCL studies were heterogeneous. FDG-PET had an overall sensitivity of 0.81 (95% CI, 0.72 to 0.89) and a specificity of 0.97 (95% CI, 0.94 to 0.99) for advanced-stage HL, and a sensitivity of 0.78 (95% CI, 0.64 to 0.87) and a specificity of 0.87 (95% CI, 0.75 to 0.93) for DLBCL. Meta-regression and subgroup analyses did not identify factors that affect prognostic accuracy.

Conclusion

For low- to intermediate-risk advanced-stage HL, FDG-PET performed after a few cycles of standard chemotherapy seems to be a reliable prognostic test to identify poor responders, warranting prospective studies to assess PET-based treatment strategies. For DLBCL, no reliable conclusions can be drawn due to heterogeneity. Interim PET remains an unproven test for routine clinical practice. Its use should be reserved for research settings where treatment regimens and imaging conditions are standardized.
Siren Song: Physicians, Congress, and Medicare Fees
Authors: Laugesen Miriam J.
Published: March 2009

Physicians' fees under Medicare are updated by regulation annually based on a formula called the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR). Since 2003 Congress has reversed impending cuts to fees in response to physician calls for reform of the SGR, yet physician groups supported the SGR when fee increases outstripped medical inflation. Physician groups are partly culpable for the failure of cost containment because physician groups have resisted efforts to regulate their practice or link effectiveness research to coverage and reimbursement decisions. In the story of Ulysses and the Sirens, Ulysses has himself bound to the mast so that he cannot be seduced by the calls of the Sirens. Physician groups are like sirens because legislators cannot resist their songs. Future policy changes should consider physician needs alongside broader cost-containment goals, including linking reimbursement to comparative effectiveness research.
Managed Care Regulation in the States: The Impact on Physicians' Practices and Clinical Autonomy
Authors: Kronebusch Karl , Schlesinger Mark , Thomas Tracey
Published: March 2009

While the states engaged in an extended period of adopting and revising laws regulating managed care during the 1990s, there has been to date only limited empirical assessment of the impacts of these laws. For this analysis, we constructed a data set using information on state laws combined with survey responses of physicians. We distinguish regulations with a typology based on whether they affect the context or content of care and the target group of the regulation (consumer or provider). Our findings indicate that the context of care appears to be more efficaciously regulated than the content of care. Provisions concerning consumer access and contractual relationships lead to greater reported physician ability to obtain referrals and services, improved quality of clinical interactions, and greater perceived clinical autonomy. Regulations intended to enhance professional autonomy are associated with lower reported levels of utilization constraints and higher reported quality of clinical interactions. In contrast, consumer protection provisions, including procedures for appeals from plan decisions, appear to have had little impact on most physicians' practices. Despite structural and legal constraints on the potential effectiveness of these regulations, state managed care legislation appears to have provided some protections against managed care restrictions on physicians' clinical autonomy.
Psychoanalysis without Symptoms
Authors: Cheng Anne Anlin
Published: March 2009

This article meditates on the possibility of thinking about both psychoanalysis and contemporary critical analysis without the drive toward symptomatic reading. It argues that the instrumental expectation placed on the diagnosis of symptoms (of illness and of ideology alike) and the subsequent promise of transformative change have led to a series of critical impasses in liberal criticism. This essay contends that the failures of psychoanalysis (failures to produce stable meaning, to procure cure, to exorcize the past, to segregate health from illness, and so forth) may be precisely all the places that render psychoanalysis not only interesting but ethically vital to social critique and political consideration.
Disposability
Authors: Khanna Ranjana
Published: March 2009

This article discusses disposability in light of what psychoanalysis can offer to an analysis of that term, understood as a contemporary characteristic of the human and its liminal condition. The essay questions why a program of social change is demanded of psychoanalysis but also shows that psychoanalysis offers an account of social change that is nondeterministic. It shows how psychoanalysis can be a useful analytic frame through which to understand the pleasures and pains of disposability or the waste that one might associate with it, and thus brings psychoanalysis into conversation with its historical allies, Western Marxism and feminism. The author engages with the work of Giorgio Agamben, Françoise Vergès, and Bertrand Ogilvie through a psychoanalytic framework shaped by her understanding of contemporary disposability. She associates disposability with melancholia and an impoverishment of ego that, she maintains, ultimately provides a critical agency.
US Policy toward Kosovo: Sowing the Wind in the Balkans, Reaping the Whirlwind in the Caucasus
Authors: Bandow Doug
Published: March 2009

For the past decade, the United States has been promoting national transformation in the Balkans. In pushing the independence of Kosovo, Washington policy makers apparently believed that Serbia would acquiesce, most nations would recognize the newest independent state, and Russia would accept America's decision. None of these assumptions came to pass. Unfortunately, the war in the Caucasus was an inadvertent consequence of US policy in the Balkans. The West acted contrary to international law, violated the sovereignty of another state, and carelessly sacrificed the interests of neighboring states. The point is not that Russia acted correctly or legitimately in Georgia but that American policy makers must learn that actions have consequences, even actions by the US government. They need look no further than from Kosovo to Georgia.
Defining Strategic Priorities: Ballistic Missile Defense, Iran, and Relations with Major Powers
Authors: Moss Kenneth B.
Published: March 2009

The planned deployment of ballistic missile defense systems in Poland and a radar system in the Czech Republic to defend against possible attack from Iran has stirred strong opposition from Moscow. Concern about Iran's nuclear-enrichment program is legitimate, but the United States must address this issue by reconciling global objectives with regional tensions in the Middle East. If a negotiated solution is found, US policy must consider the reasons behind Iran's program, the dangers of proliferation of nuclear capabilities throughout the Middle East, and the strategic objectives the United States seeks with Russia, China, and Europe.
Tricoherence for Early Contact Detection
Authors: Sinha Jyoti K. , Balla C.B.N. Suryam
Published: March 2009

Premature contact between neighbouring structural components like coaxial tubes used in process plants and nuclear industry over a period of service is unacceptable. The detection of such a contact is important for the safe operation of the plant before an accident takes place. At an early stage of contact the structural components interact each other nonlinearly like a make and break when excited. Higher order coherences (normalized higher order spectra) are known to be a tool for the detection of nonlinearity in the signal, so these may be useful for the present case. An earlier work has used one of the higher order coherence (HOC), namely the bicoherence for the contact detection. The present study investigates the use of other HOC – the tricoherence in the detection of such an early contact between the two components. The results of a simulated example and an experimental example are presented here.
Quantifying the Benefits of Individual-Level Targeting in the Presence of Firm Strategic Behavior
Authors: Dong Xiaojing , Manchanda Puneet , Chintagunta Pradeep K.
Published: March 2009

The authors develop a method to quantify the benefits of individual-level targeting when the data reflect firm strategic behavior—that is, when firms (1) are engaged in targeting and (2) take into account the actions of competing firms. This article studies a pharmaceutical firm's decision on the allocation of detailing visits across individual physicians. For this analysis, the authors develop, at the individual level, a model of prescriptions and a model of detailing. Using physician panel data, they estimate, at the physician level, the parameters of the prescription and detailing models jointly using full-information Bayesian methods. The results suggest that accounting for firm strategic behavior improves profitability by 14%–23% compared with segment-level targeting. In addition, ignoring firm strategic behavior underestimates the benefit of individual-level targeting significantly. The authors provide reasons for this finding. They also carry out several robustness checks to test the validity of the modeling assumptions.
Can McDonald's Food Ever be Considered Healthful? Metacognitive Experiences Affect the Perceived Understanding of a Brand
Authors: Lee Kyoungmi , Shavitt Sharon
Published: March 2009

Consumers use metacognitive experiences to draw inferences about the state of their brand understanding but only when these metacognitive experiences are relevant for making this inference. In such situations, metacognitive difficulty can improve brand evaluations because it triggers efforts to restore brand understanding by seizing on available new information.
Ethical Decisions and Response Mode Compatibility: Weighting of Ethical Attributes in Consideration Sets Formed by excluding versus Including Product Alternatives
Authors: Irwin Julie R. , Naylor Rebecca Walker
Published: March 2009

Across four studies, including one involving an actual monetary decision, the authors demonstrate that forming a product consideration set by excluding versus including alternatives induces consumers to place more weight on ethical attributes, such as company labor practices and animal testing. This nonnormative difference reflects a compatibility between exclusion and ethics, and it holds regardless of attribute framing or consumer emotion. The authors also find that consumers judge others’ behavior more negatively for excluding ethical products than for including ethical products. These results have implications for the marketing of ethical products, both specifically (e.g., it is important to encourage exclusion modes) and generally (e.g., the failure to consider ethical products may reflect seemingly minor contextual issues guiding the decision process and not consumer disinterest in ethical issues).
Suction Measurements as Indicators of Sample Quality in Soft Clay
Authors: Donohue Shane , Long Michael
Published: March 2009

Soil samples removed from the ground during sampling possess a suction in their unconfined state. This suction may vary depending on the degree of disturbance induced during the sampling process. The objective of this work is to examine the feasibility of using suction measurements for sample quality assessment. A number of suction measuring techniques are reviewed and examined on samples of varying quality from two well-characterized soft clay sites, Onsøy in Norway and Ballinasloe in Ireland. Most of the techniques tested gave comparable results, although the cell pressure loading method provided the most variable measurements. The Japanese and University of Massachusetts Amherst suction probe techniques provide relatively quick and consistent suction measurements, requiring less than half an hour to stabilize. In terms of sample quality the Sherbrooke block samples consistently exhibit higher suctions than the 76 mm, 54 mm, and continuous soil samplers for the Onsøy test site. Suctions measured on the Japanese 75 mm samples are similar to those measured on the block samples. The 5° displacement sampler provides the highest suctions on the Ballinasloe samples. It is observed that the quality of samples indicated by suction measurements is similar to that inferred from the normalized change in void ratio (Δe/e0) criterion.
Effects of Radiation on Materials: 14th International Symposium (Volume I)
Authors: Packan NH , Stoller RE , Kumar AS
Published: March 2009

Description

Temporarily out of stock; will ship by July 2011.

This two-volume set is a collection of research results of radiation effects in structural materials and nuclear fuels. Complex topics are covered in detail with supporting evidence.

Volume I — 50 papers on: microstructures; gas effects; radiation-induced segregation or phase changes; micro structural modeling; fundamental defect behavior; and special measurement techniques.

Volume II — 39 papers on: pressure vessel steels; mechanical properties; irradiation creep and swelling; damage facilities and dosimetry; breeder core materials; and fuels and ceramics.
The Measurement and Correction of Electrolyte Resistance in Electrochemical Tests
Authors: Taylor R , Scribner L
Published: March 2009

Description

Reviews and critiques new and existing methods for the correction of ohmic electrolyte resistance, an error inherent in all electrochemical experiments.

13 peer-reviewed papers are divided into sections on theory, critical comparisons of methods, mathematical approaches, and applications. Includes applications on metals in desert soils, buried pipelines, corrosion in concrete, and crevice corrosion case studies.
Geotechnics of Waste Fills—Theory and Practice
Authors: Landva A , Knowles GD
Published: March 2009

Description

Explores the geotechnical properties and behavior of waste fill materials. 23 peer-reviewed papers provide solutions to problems pertaining to placing methods, field and laboratory sampling and testing, classification, and in-situ improvement methods.

Papers in 4 sections:

• Landfill Investigations, Design, Construction

• Stabilization, Compaction, Consolidation

• Stability and Settlement Analyses

• and Case Histories.

Useful handbook for design and construction on and in the large number of closed landfills in North America and elsewhere.
Asphalt Emulsions
Authors: Muncy HW
Published: March 2009

Description

Practical information on asphalt emulsions technology, from laboratory methods, to mix designs, to application of materials.
Geosynthetic Testing for Waste Containment Applications
Authors: Koerner RM
Published: March 2009

Description

26 papers help the reader with the selection, testing, design, and use of geosynthetics. The peer-reviewed volume:

• Focuses on the many available geosynthetic material tests that are performed in isolation (index tests)

• Contrasts these tests with soil/geosynthetic material tests (performance tests)

• Determines if, and what type of, full scale field tests are available

• Identifies needs for modification of these tests, or for additional tests that better predict field performance than those that are currently available.

Chapters include:

• Chemical Resistance of Geomembranes

• Test Methods and Procedures to Evaluate Geomembranes

• Chemical Resistance of Geotextiles and Other Geosynthetics

• Test Methods and Procedures to Evaluate Geotextiles and Other Geosynthetics

• and Performance Behavior of Several Geosynthetic Systems.

For waste facility owners (both private and public); permitting agencies; consulting engineers and testing firms in waste industry. Also geotechnical engineers; environmental engineers; hydraulics engineers.
Characterization and Toxicity of Smoke
Authors: Hasegawa HK
Published: March 2009

Description

12 peer-reviewed papers on smoke toxicity, smoke chemistry, and smoke characterization. Studies address smoke hazard assessment, smoke spread modeling, appropriateness of toxicity tests, appropriateness of animal species as human substitutes, effect of materials on nuclear winter, and more. For researchers, regulators, producers, and those involved in the field of smoke research.
Building Deck Waterproofing
Authors: Gish LE
Published: March 2009

Description

Practical publication gives you access to the expertise of architects, specifiers, contractors, and manufacturers in the waterproofing industry. 18 peer-reviewed papers on: the basics from several points of view; problem solving in the field and in the laboratory; and perceived problem areas and proposed solutions. For architects, design engineers, building owners, waterproofing manufacturers, building maintenance persons, waterproofing contractors.
Geotechnical Engineering of Ocean Waste Disposal
Authors: Demars KR , Chaney RC
Published: March 2009

Description

15 peer-reviewed papers on geotechnical test methods and procedures used for site evaluation, design, construction, and monitoring of both contaminated areas and waste disposal facilities in the marine environment.

Part A -- Shallow Ocen Disposal: Dredged Material, Sludges, and Bulking Wastes includes six papers on dredge material disposal.

Part B -- Deep Ocean Disposal: Radioactive and Concentrated Chemical Wastes presents nine papers on both subseabed disposal of nuclear wastes and concentrated chemical wastes.

For geotechnical engineers.
Deep Foundation Improvements: Design, Construction, and Testing
Authors: Esrig MI , Bachus RC
Published: March 2009

Description

22 peer-reviewed papers focus on deep foundation improvements through the formation of composite ground, and those related to improvement through compaction and densification.

Areas covered include:

• Construction and analysis of composite ground

• Construction guidelines and specifications

• Case history presentations

• Introducing grout to the soil

• and Compaction and densification techniques.

For geotechnical engineers; ground improvement contractors; federal highway administration/departments of transportation; specificaion writers and anyone involved with the design or construction of stone columns.
Plants for Toxicity Assessment
Authors: Wang W , Gorsuch JW , Lower WR
Published: March 2009

Description

The first publication to address all of the following in one volume: regulatory perspectives • comparative plant toxicology • plant xenobiotic bioaccumulation • effects of air pollution on plants • general phytotoxicity • and new plant bioassay approaches. STP 1091 describes many new approaches for plant bioassays, including those suitable for in aquatic and terrestrial environments.
MiCon 90: Advances in Video Technology for Microstructural Control
Authors: Vander Voort GF
Published: March 2009

Description

Reviews some of the most recent developments in the emerging field of computer-enhanced imaging and automatic image analysis. 27 papers cover:

• General Overview

• Nondestructive Testing Applications

• Metallographic Applications
Extending the Life of Bridges
Authors: Brown BC , Maupin GW , Lichtenstein AG
Published: March 2009

Description

Practical, papers on how to increase the service life of the United States multi-billion dollar system of bridges. Presents a cross section of relevant and current issues related to bridge structures throughout the United States. Papers range from the establishment of a bridge ranking system, to detailing specific inspection techniques, to designing relatively new types of bridge decks.
Plants for Toxicity Assessment: Second Volume
Authors: Gorsuch JW , Lower WR , Lewis MA , Sandhu S , Wang WW
Published: March 2009

Description

Addresses the use of plants to assess the toxicity of air, water, and soil both through laboratory/greenhouse and field studies. 35 papers cover:

• Regulatory Perspectives

• Applications of Plant Bioassays/Photosynthesis

• Xenobiotic Uptake by Plants

• General Phytotoxicology

• Biochemical and Genetic Applications

• New Approaches
Performance of Protective Clothing: Fourth Volume
Authors: McBriarty JP , Henry NW
Published: March 2009

Description

80 peer-reviewed papers address these issues:

• Hazards and Methods (including aerosols, physical resistance, biological, chemical, pesticides, and thermal and heat)

• Field tests, New tests, Evaluations, Design, Physiological, Performance (including field tests, new and improved tests, evaluations, physiological, ergonomical, design, evaluation, and performance, decontamination)

• Programsand Assessments (including program, selection, assessments, business)

• International standards
Innovations and Uses for Lime
Authors: Walker DD , Hardy TB , Hoffman DC , Stanley DD
Published: March 2009

Description

12 papers explore contemporary applications and new technology in the uses of lime. Potential large uses of lime in new applications, such as paper and environmental situations, are discussed.
Particulate Debris from Medical Implants: Mechanisms of Formation and Biological Consequences
Authors: St. John KR
Published: March 2009

Description

One of the causes or results (or both) of medical implant failure is the release of particulate material debris from the device because of wear, physical deterioration, or chemical attack by the harsh physiological environment. STP 1144 examines tissue response to particles of implant material in order to identify factors, such as materials selection, surgical protocol, implant design, or postoperative prophylactic drug treatment, that might limit debris generation or moderate the tissue response.

19 peer-reviewed papers written by principal researchers in the field are divided into two sections: clinical experience with the generation of material debris from implants; and in vitro and in vivo models for the clinical situation and methods for generating and characterizing wear debris particles that may be used in laboratory models. For medical implant designers/orthopaedics, orthopaedic surgeons, medial libraries, and biomaterials researchers.
Corrosion of Electronic and Magnetic Materials
Authors: Peterson PJ
Published: March 2009

Description

To meet consumer demands for faster, convenient electronics, many exotic electronic and magnetic materials are being used for which little if any corrosion experience exists.
Product Testing with Consumers for Research Guidance: Special Consumer Groups, Second Volume
Authors: Wu LS , Gelinas AD
Published: March 2009

Description

This ASTM publication discusses approaches for the use of consumers in research guidance testing.
The Impact of U.S. Environmental Regulations on Fuel Quality
Authors: Dukek WG , Strauss KH
Published: March 2009

Description

The United States has embarked on a unique experiment to improve the quality of air in its major urban areas by altering the composition of fuels for vehicles. This experiment involves close cooperation between government and industry to set air quality standards that will introduce both better fuels and vehicles in a timely and economical fashion. The consequences of these fuel changes will affect the petroleum and chemical industries for all energy products and are discussed. Learn how these factors--air pollution regulations, automobile design, fuel handling and the quality of reformulated gasoline and other fuels--are interrelated.
Application of Agricultural Analysis in Environmental Studies
Authors: Hoddinott KB , O'Shay TA
Published: March 2009

Description

STP 1162 is a unique collection of chemical analyses that can be used in agriculture as well as to define the chemical nature of the soil for an environmental evaluation.
Biomaterials' Mechanical Properties
Authors: Kambic HE , Yokobori AT
Published: March 2009

Description

Important to both biomaterials and biomechanical engineers are the philosophical and conceptual developments needed to standardize the mechanical test methods of biomaterials and tissue materials. This publication presents these issues within the context of: a review of test methods; an identification of new testing techniques; and the promotion of an interchange between manufacturers, basic scientists and clinicians. 24 peer-reviewed papers.
Effects of Radiation on Materials: Sixteenth International Symposium
Authors: Kumar AE , Gelles DS , Nanstad RK , Little TA
Published: March 2009

Description

Comprehensive look at the latest research on how radiation effects metal and non-metal materials, with emphasis on fundamental mechanisms of damage and applications to nuclear systems.

Over 80 peer-review papers in 15 sections. The diversity of the selections cover a complete range of topics, including:

• The importance of research on radiation embrittlement as a predictor of safety margins

• General aspects of radiation damage

• Research covering reactor pressure vessels (RPV) steels and the various properties and microstructures

• Results of studies of ferritic and ferritic-martensitic steels

• Areas of research involving austentic alloys, copper and copper alloys, as well as alloys of zirconium, aluminum and vanadium

• Irradiation of nonmetallics, including one paper on fast reactor nuclear fuel.
Pesticide Formulations and Application Systems: 13th Volume
Authors: Berger PD , Devisetty BN , Hall FR
Published: March 2009

Description

Covers a wide range of disciplines of interest to formulators, basic pesticide manufacturers, applicators, and suppliers to the agrochemical industry. 30 papers in sections of:

• Formulation Technology

• Spray Droplet Characteristics and Application Technology

• Controlled Release Technology

• Water Dispersible Granules.

Many of the papers relate to safer and more efficient uses of pesticides.
Cyclic Deformation, Fracture, and Nondestructive Evaluation of Advanced Materials: Second Volume
Authors: Mitchell MR , Buck O
Published: March 2009

Description

Covers the implementation and use of engineered advanced metallic, ceramic, and polymeric materials and composites, and serves as a companion to volume to STP 1157. 21 peer-reviewed papers cover fatigue crack initiation, crack growth, and fracture toughness of advanced structural materials such as:

• Silicon nitride

• Special titanium alloys and steels

• Particle-reinforced aluminum alloys

• Cobalt-based alloys

• Thermoplastics

• Graphite-epoxy composites.

Other topics include:

• Effects of crack closure as well as crack bridging on fatigue crack growth

• Complex multiaxial cyclic deformation and creep behavior

• Effects of thermal fatigue on coatings and their optical properties

• Applications of fatigue and fracture properties of high-strength, high-conductivity alloys, useful to the electric power industry.

Nondestructive evaluation of advanced materials that may have manufacturing defects and/or have experienced in-service damage, and the popular acoustic-ultrasonic technique are also discussed.
Engine Coolant Testing: Third Volume
Authors: Beal RE
Published: March 2009

Description

Covers advances in the development, testing, and application of engine cooling fluids for automobiles and heavy duty engines. Includes:

• A brief history of ethylene glycol engine coolant

• New families of engine coolant that operate in a medium pH range

• Historical overview of cavitation corrosion in diesel cylinder liners

• History of supplemental coolant additives used in heavy duty diesel engines and a new family of phosphate molybdate packages that are designed to perform better with aluminum components

• Toxicity and disposal of engine coolants

• Pump seal failure--causes and solutions

• Recycling processes

• Automotive and heavy duty vehicles technologies.
Application of Accelerated Corrosion Tests to Service Life Prediction of Materials
Authors: Cragnolino G , Sridhar N
Published: March 2009

Description

Discusses a variety of approaches to life prediction (across a full range of industries and applications); accuracy of prediction techniques versus actual performance; and the appropriateness of various accelerated corrosion tests to life prediction. 23 peer-reviewed papers cover laboratory and field analysis techniques in various applications, and experimental techniques.
Fractography of Modern Engineering Materials: Composites and Metals, Second Volume
Authors: Masters JE , Gilbertson LN
Published: March 2009

Description

In 3 sections:

• Unique Fractography Techniques

• Metallic Materials

• and Polymeric and Composite Materials.

Case studies also cover a wide range, including failure investigations of an antenna used in deep space exploration and chemical storage tanks. Papers range from theoretical to applied.
Slow Strain Rate Testing for the Evaluation of Environmentally Induced Cracking: Research and Engineering Applications
Authors: Kane RD
Published: March 2009

Description

Highlights some of the new directions in testing for environmentally induced cracking using a variety of slow strain rate techniques.

19 papers written by researchers from industry, government agencies, and universities worldwide address:

• Development and application of slow strain rate testing techniques

• Uses of slow strain rate SCC testing to control or monitor industrial processes: applications in nuclear power

• Research applications and developments in slow strain rate testing techniques

• Industrial applications of slow strain rate testing to evaluate the environmentally induced cracking

• Use of slow strain rate testing for qualification of SCC resistance of corrosion resistant alloys: case histories in petroleum production.

Papers describe both fundamental research studies and more practical applications
Petrography of Cementitious Materials
Authors: DeHayes SM , Stark D
Published: March 2009

Description

Focuses on cementitious materials in Portland cement concrete and describes state-of-the-art microscopic techniques for characterizing cementitious materials and hardened concrete. 9 peer-reviewed paper demonstrate the wide ranging potential of petrography as a tool in investigation of cement and concrete properties and performance. Fully illustrated; color photographs throughout.
Composites Bonding
Authors: Damico DJ , Wilkinson TL , Niks SLF
Published: March 2009

Description

Provides significant insight into the latest developments on bonding composites to themselves and other polymeric and inorganic surfaces. This information, published for the first time in this format, will give you an international perspective on composites used in the aerospace, automotive, and recreational marine industries, among others. Topics include:

• Chemical, Physical and Mechanical Surface Preparations

• Effective Surface Preparation on Adhesives and Adhesive Durability

• Chemical and Physical Surface Characterization

• Joint Design

• Bond Performance Under Environmental and Physical Stress

• Analysis of Bond Failures

• Adhesive Application

• Use in the Manufacturing Environment
Head and Neck Injuries in Sports
Authors: Hoerner EF
Published: March 2009

Description

Promotes safety and the decrease of risk factors through better equipment, facilities, and knowledge of the mechanism of injury. Experts of various disciplines present their research, clinical experiences, data collections, and the application of their accumulated experiences and knowledge. 27 peer-reviewed papers on epidemiology; risk factors; mechanism of injury; and protective equipment applications. Covers a broad spectrum of sporting activities including ice hockey, football, baseball, swimming and diving, equestrian, soccer, gymnastics. Playing facilities, playing, and protective equipment are also addressed.
Matrix-Dominated Stress/Strain Behavior in Polymeric Composites: Effects of Hold Time, Nonlinearity, and Rate Dependency
Authors: Gates TS
Published: March 2009

In order to help understand matrix-dominated behavior in laminated polymer matrix composites, an elastic/viscoplastic constitutive model was developed and used to predict stress/strain behavior of both off-axis and angle-ply symmetric laminates under in-plane, isothermal, axial tensile loading.

The model was validated for short duration tests on graphite-reinforced thermoplastic and bismaleimide composites at elevated temperatures. It accurately accounted for short-term stress relaxation and short-term creep, strain rate sensitivity, and material nonlinearity. For long-term behavior, the short-term testing times were extended by approximately 20 times. Periods of creep and stress relaxation were used to investigate the ability of the model to account for the extended time behavior. The model generally underestimated the total change in strain and stress for both the extended creep and extended relaxation, respectively.
Bearing Strength Behavior of Clearance-Fit Fastener Holes in Toughened Graphite/Epoxy Laminates
Authors: DiNicola AJ , Fantle SC
Published: March 2009

Laminates made of standard modulus carbon fiber in a toughened thermosetting resin matrix were tested under pin bearing conditions to determine the effects of fastener hole oversize on both 4% hole deformation strength (4% HDS) and maximum bearing stress (per ASTM D 953, Test Method for Bearing Strength of Plastics). Results indicated 4% HDS was reduced by up to 30% due to hole oversize whereas the maximum bearing stress, which results from a complicated progressive damage mechanism, was generally unaffected. Nonlinear finite element contact analyses were used to investigate the contact force distribution between the laminate and pin, both assumed to be linear elastic, and to obtain local stress field information. Maximum contact force was greatly influenced by hole oversize, ranging from 90% to 240% of the maximum calculated for a conventional cosine distribution. Significant differences in the distribution of contact force as a function of angular position were noted also. For applied loads corresponding to the experimentally determined 4% HDS, finite element stress results, used in conjunction with a ply level Hoffman failure criterion, allowed the formulation of a model that could accurately predict 4% HDS for all nominal and oversize diameters tested. The proposed model, which is a variation of the point stress characteristic distance hypothesis, reflects the nonconstant features of the Hoffman failure contour at points removed from the hole boundary.
SEM Analysis and Computer Modelling of Hydration of Portland Cement Particles
Authors: Bentz DP , Stutzman PE
Published: March 2009

Characterization of cement particles is complicated due to their wide size range, complex shapes, and multi-phase nature. Accurate characterization should allow for better prediction of cement performance and more realistic modelling of cement microstructural development. This paper presents a technique, based on scanning electron microscopy and digital image processing, for obtaining two-dimensional digital images of actual portland cement particles in which all major phases are identified. By combining backscattered electron and X-ray images, an image segmented into the major cement phases may be created. These images can be analyzed to determine any number of quantitative measures such as phase fractions or phase perimeters. The technique has also been successfully utilized in obtaining realistic starting images for input into a two-dimensional cement microstructure model which simulates the hydration process.
Application of the Rising Displacement Test to SCC Investigations
Authors: Dietzel W , Schwalbe K-H
Published: March 2009

The stress corrosion cracking (SCC) behavior of two metallic materials in sodium chloride containing solutions has been investigated using precracked specimens and a rising displacement test procedure. The tests were evaluated according to linear elastic fracture mechanics, i.e., in terms of KIscc and da/dt versus K, and, in addition, by applying elastic-plastic fracture parameters such as the J-integral and the crack tip opening displacement (CTOD). From the results of these tests conclusions are drawn concerning an accelerated SCC test procedure that might be based on a combination of the rising displacement test on pre-cracked specimens and the conventional slow strain rate test using smooth specimens.
Improved SSR Test for Lot Acceptance Criterion
Authors: Hibner EL
Published: March 2009

For quite some time now, the Slow Strain Rate (SSR) test has been used in the Oil Patch as a Lot Acceptance Criterion. The most common pass/fail criteria for SSR testing is the ratio of Time to Failure (TTF), Percent Reduction of Area (%RA), or Percent Elongation (%E1), or a combination thereof, measured in an environment relative to the same parameter in an inert environment (air or nitrogen). Specimens are typically examined for secondary cracking away from the main fracture surface. However, there are many innate problems associated with the SSR test that complicate its use as a lot acceptance criterion. The nature of these problems is discussed, along with corrective actions.