cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of composition on crystallographic texture of hot-rolled AlLi binary alloys

Abstract A series of binary AlLi alloys were identically hot rolled to study the effects of composition on texture. It was observed that at low Li levels (less than 2 wt.% Li) the alloys tend to be dynamically recrystallized, which gives rise to primary Goss and secondary Cube texture components. Alloys with higher Li levels (greater than 2 wt.% Li) developed at β fiber texture with maximum intensity at near-Brass location. The transition between the texture types coincided with the start of the formation of δ precipitates during rolling. An increase in the volume fraction of these precipitates reduced the overall texture intensity. The changes in texture resulted in a decrease in the yield strength anisotropy in alloys with 2–3 wt.% Li. This trend agrees qualitatively with the changes in Taylor factors calculated from texture.
Work in progress — A balanced, freshman-first computer engineering curriculum

A freshman-first Computer Engineering curriculum replaced a more conventional curriculum at the Milwaukee School of Engineering in academic year 2006-2007. The new curriculum was designed around two key principles: topical balance and freshman-first. The result is a curriculum that balances the core computer engineering topics throughout all four academic years and addresses curricular issues discovered through the collection of ABET materials.
Species diversity in vertical, horizontal, and temporal dimensions of a fruit‐feeding butterfly community in an Ecuadorian rainforest

To test the hypotheses that fruit-feeding nymphalid butterflies are randomly distributed in space and time, a community of fruit-feeding nymphalid butterflies was sampled at monthly intervals for one year by trapping 6690 individuals of 130 species in the canopy and understory of four forest habitats: primary, higraded, secondary, and edge. The overall species abundance distribution was well described by a lognormal distribution. Total species diversity (γ-diversity) was partitioned into additive components within and among community subdivisions (α-diversity andβ-diversity) in vertical, horizontal and temporal dimensions. Although community subdivisions showed high similarity (1−β-diversity/γ-diversity), significantβ-diversity existed in each dimension. Individual abundance and observed species richness was lower in the canopy than in the understory. However, rarefaction analysis and species accumulation curves revealed that canopy had higher species richness than understory. Observed species richness was roughly equal in all habitats, but individual abundance was much greater in edge, largely due to a single, specialist species. Rarefaction analysis and species accumulation curves showed that edge had significantly lower species richness than all other habitats. Samples from a single habitat, height and time contained only a small fraction of the total community species richness. This study demonstrates the feasibility, and necessity, of large-scale, long-term sampling in multiple dimensions for accurately measuring species richness and diversity in tropical forest communities. We discuss the importance of such studies in conservation biology.
In vivo anti‐tumor effects of local adoptive transfer of mouse and human cultured lymphoid cells

Mouse and human lymphoid cells were cultivated in the presence of T-cell growth factor (TCGF) and evaluated for their in vivo anti-tumor effect in mice. Cultured spleen cells of normal BALB/c mice or of mice bearing the M109 tumor had a high level of cytotoxic acitivity in vitro against a variety of tumor target cells and had characteristics of natural killer cells. These cultured cells were evaluated for their in vivo cytotoxic activity by admixture with [125l]dUrd-labelled M109 tumor cells (2 × 105) at a 30:1 ratio and inoculation of the mixture into the footpads of BALB/c mice. The level of radioactivity remaining in the footpad was determined at various periods following inoculation of radiolabelled tumor cells. The presence of cultured cells in the inocula caused a marked decrease in the footpad radioactivity by 24 h. However, the slope of clearance of the radiolabel then became similar to that in the control mice. The cultured cells delayed, but did not prevent, tumor appearance, and did not influence the subsequent rate of growth of the tumors. The transient effects of the cultured cells contrasted with the more prolonged in vivo effects of alloimmune lymphocytes, and this may be due to their short survival period. Ninety-nine percent of [125l]dUrd-labelled cultured mouse lymphoid cells were eliminated within 48 h of i.f.p. inoculation. Cultured human lymphoid cells, initiated from the blood of normal donors, also had a high level of cytotoxic activity in vitro and were evaluated for their in vivo effects by intra-footpad inoculation into nude mice, together with radiolabelled human tumor cell lines, G-ll or HT-29. In vivo cytotoxic activity of the human cultured lymphoid cells correlated with their cytotoxic effect in vitro. These results indicate that cultured mouse and human effector cells have appreciable in vivo cytotoxic effects against tumor cell lines. However, the transient duration of these effects may limit their immunotherapeutic potential.
The socializing influence of normative cohesive teacher education on teachers' beliefs about instructional choice

Abstract This paper explores the conceptions held by the teacher education faculty and their teacher learners regarding teachers’ beliefs about instructional choice. Findings show that different conceptions of teachers’ instructional decision‐making were associated with different teacher education designs. In programs where teaching was conceived, for the most part, as an externally regulated profession, teachers had few opportunities to understand, reflect on or align their practice in response to students’ learning needs. In programs where teachers were seen as professional individuals capable of making informed instructional choices, teachers had more opportunities to acquire the knowledge and skills to adjust instruction to learners’ diverse needs. Conceptions of instructional choice and sources of guidance in teaching and learning to teach were, on average, disperse across the programs studied, but in constructivist programs, graduates’ views were more likely to move in the direction of their faculty...
Aquatic surface microlayer contamination in chesapeake bay

Abstract The aquatic surface microlayer (SMIC), ∼50 μm thick, serves as a concentration point for metal and organic contaminants that have low water solubility or are associated with floatable particles. Also, the eggs and larvae of many fish and shellfish species float on, or come in contact with, the water surface throughout their early development. The objectives of this study were (1) to determine the present degree of aquatic surface microlayer pollution at selected sites in Chesapeake Bay, and (2) to provide a preliminary evaluation of sources contributing to any observed contamination. Twelve stations located in urban bays, major rivers, and the north central bay were sampled three times, each at ∼5-day intervals during May 1986. Samples of 1.4–4.1 each were collected from the upper 30–60-μm water surface (surface microlayer, SMIC) using a Teflon-coated rotating drum microlayer sampler. One sample of subsurface water was collected in the central bay. At all stations, concentrations of metals, alkanes, and aromatic hydrocarbons in the SMIC were high compared with one bulk-water sample and with typical concentrations in water of Chesapeake Bay and elsewhere. SMIC contamination varied greatly among the three sampling times, but high mean contaminant levels (total polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, 1.9–6.2 μg 1 −1 ; Pb, 4.9–24 μg 1 −1 ; Cu, 4–16 μg 1 −1 ; and Zn, 34–59 μg 1 −1 ) were found at the upper Potomac and northern bay sites. Three separate areas were identified on the basis of relative concentrations of different aromatic hydrocarbons in SMIC samples - the northern bay, the Potomac River, and the cleaner southern and eastern portions of the sampling area. Suspected sources of surface contamination include gasoline and diesel fuel combustion, coal combustion, and petroleum product releases. Concentrations of metals and hydrocarbons, at approximately half the stations sampled, are sufficient to pose a threat to the reproductive stages of some fish and shellfish. Sampling and analysis of the surface microlayer provides a sensitive tool for source identification and monitoring of potentially harmful aquatic pollution.
Scientific aspects of early eugenics

The eugenics movement supported applications of scientific breeding principles to humans, ultimately to encourage a better society, but actually with often disastrous social consequences. Although mostly viewed as quackery today, legitimate scientific considerations of fact and theory had an important role in determining the course of eugenics. A school of eugenics arose formally from attempts to apply Darwinian principles to humans in the context of biometry, a school that used statistical approaches to biology. Biometry emphasized blending inheritance and continuous traits, in marked contrast to the particulate inheritance of unit traits in Mendelism. Genetics was therefore a scientific challenge to eugenics, which was rooted in biometry. A Mendelian eugenics arose in the United States primarily under the influence of Charles Davenport. This paper reviews some of the technical issues involved in the development of this new paradigm, as well as Davenport's role as a scientist in this process.
1,3,5-Cycloheptatrienyl derivatives of calix[4]- and calix[6]arenes and their corresponding tropylium salts

Abstract Tetrakis-(p-cycloheptatrienyl7)calix[4]arene and hexakis-(p-cycloheptatrienyl-7)calix [6]arene have been synthesized. The oxidation affords calixarenes with four or six positively charged substituents at the upper rim. Whereas the cycloheptatrienyl substituent has little influence on the conformational flexibility of the macrocycle, the tropylium substituents reduce the interconversional barrier.
The effect of temperature on the collisional deactivation of electronically excited CO

Abstract Collisional quenching rates with helium as a collision partner have been obtained for selectively excited rovibronic levels of the A 2 Π i state of CO + at T = 94.207 and 298 K. Data are reported for collision induced electronic transitions with various energy gaps and Franck-Condon factors. The rate constants are approximately two to three orders of magnitude larger than recently measured ground state diatomic ion vibrational relaxation rates. The effect of temperature for the different vibronic levels is qualitatively the same; the cross section increases as the temperature is lowered. The results are discussed in terms of collision complex models based on the attractive portion of the intermolecular potential curve.
Factors Predicting Intention to Enroll in a Philosophy of Life Course

This research examined factors predicting university students' intentions to enroll in a philosophy of life course. One hundred and ninety subjects participated in two surveys. The first was qualitative, identifying factors students considered in forming intentions, but without ranking the factors. The second study used a quantitative model to predict student intentions from their beliefs about the course, themselves, and other people. The model was based on Ajzen's theory of planned behavior, a theory that successfully predicts many different behaviors. Analysis was done using partial least squares, a robust structural equation modeling technique. The results show that students focused primarily on personal outcomes from the course. They wanted the course to help them understand life and themselves. To a lesser extent, students' perceptions of other people's views affected their intentions, especially the opinions of parents, friends, and religious people. Some students thought all beliefs are subjective, and discussing them would be pointless. Recommendations are given for designing and promoting philosophy of life courses.
Adjudicating Frame Shifts and Frame Disputes in the New Millennial University: The Role of the Dean

This paper argues that sociological theory provides a sound basis for analyzing the social organization and reorganization of the college or university and for guiding the activities of the college dean. Frame analysis theory, developed in the study of social movements, and the attendant concepts of frame shifts and frame disputes, are drawn on to facilitate understanding of the organizational change being experienced by many comprehensive universities today. Various university constituencies proffer sometimes competing frames that can be characterized as “old school” vs. “new school” or “theoretical” vs. “practical,” yet collective and at least moderately harmonious action is required to attend to the tasks at hand. More specifically, the processes of frame alignment detailing the way that the frames held by various individuals and groups link to larger frames, offer a valuable theoretical tool for a dean. The dean’s task is one of adjudicating frame disputes within the college, navigating frame shifts in the university and reframing the concerns of the college to both internal and external audiences. The author concludes that the use of frame analysis demonstrates that sociological theory can be a vital contributor to the leadership of colleges and universities and to leaders’ understanding of the changes occurring therein.
The Effect of Constant Ambient Temperature and Ration on the Performance of Sexed Broilers

Two trials involving 480 Cobb color-sexed broiler chicks were conducted to determine the effect of various constant ambient temperatures on the performance of broilers. Temperatures in Trial 1 were 18 and 29 C and in Trial 2 were 24 and 35 C. The interacting effect of dietary energy (3.142 or 3.252 kcal ME/g of diet) and protein (16, 19, or 22%) on performance criteria was also examined within each trial. There was no indication of selective consumption of any of the ratios at any temperature. Differences in feed consumption observed in either trial were totally contributed by temperature effect. Within a trial, and irrespective of temperature treatment, the rate of growth and feed consumption of the females were less than that of the males. Males and females responded equally to the ambient temperature; there was no significant sex X temperature interaction in Trials 1 or 2.
Invariants of human emotion

Because of the complexity of human emotional responses, invariants must be sought not in the responses themselves, but in their generating mechanisms. Lindquist et al. show that functional locationism is a theoretical dead end; their proposed mechanistic framework is a first step toward better models of emotional behavior. We caution, however, that emotions may still be quasi-natural perceptual types.
Risk-resistance adaptation model for caregivers and their children with sickle cell syndromes.

This investigation examined the risk-resistance adaptation model for children with sickle cell disease and their primary caregivers. Participants were 55 children, ranging in age from 5 to 16 years with a mean age of 9 years 2 months, diagnosed with sickle cell disease and their primary caregivers, recruited from a university medical center. Measures included adjustment (i.e. primary caregiver and child adjustment), risk factors (i.e. disease and disability, functional independence, and psychosocial stressors), resistance factors (i.e. intrapersonal health locus of control, social-ecological), and stress processing (coping). Primary caregivers' adjustment was associated with developmental coping,changeR2=.08, and child adaptation was associated with an internal health locus of control,changeR2=.22. An indirect effect of primary caregivers' coping on child adjustment was found through influence on primary caregivers' adjustment,changeR2=.11. The findings support research among other chronically ill populations that suggests an association between coping and disease adjustment. The results were interpreted to support the use of theoretically driven models in predicting the adaptation of children with chronic illness and adjustment in their caregivers.
Searches for muon-to-electron (anti) neutrino flavor change

Abstract Employing an 800 MeV, high-intensity proton beam, the LSND experiment performed a sensitive search for neutrino oscillations and obtained evidence for ν μ → ν e flavor change. Although the KARMEN experiment observed no such evidence, a joint analysis of the two experiments shows that the data sets are compatible with neutrino oscillations occurring either in a band from 0.2 to 1 eV 2 or in a region around 7 eV 2. The MiniBooNE experiment at Fermilab was designed to test the LSND evidence for neutrino oscillations [C. Athanassopoulos et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 75, 2650 (1995); 77, 3082 (1996); 81, 1774 (1998); A. Aguilar et al., Phys. Rev. D 64, 112007 (2001)]. The MiniBooNE oscillation result in neutrino mode [A. Aguilar-Arevalo et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 98, 231801 (2007); A. Aguilar-Arevalo et al. arXiv:0812.2243 ] shows no significant excess of events at higher energies ( E ν > 475 MeV ), although a sizeable excess is observed at lower energies ( E ν 475 MeV ). The lack of a significant excess at higher energies allows MiniBooNE to rule out simple 2 − ν oscillations as an explanation of the LSND signal. However, the low-energy excess is presently unexplained. Additional antineutrino data and NuMI data may allow the collaboration to determine whether the excess is due, for example, to a neutrino neutral-current radiative interaction or to neutrino oscillations involving sterile neutrinos and whether the excess is related to the LSND signal. If the excess is consistent with being due to sterile neutrinos or other new physics, then future experiments at FNAL (MicroBooNE & BooNE) or ORNL (OscSNS) or with the Low-Energy Neutrino Spectrometer (LENS) detector could confirm their existence.
Improving program comprehension by answering questions (keynote)

My Natural Programming Project is working on making software development easier to learn, more effective, and less error prone. An important focus over the last few years has been to discover what are the hard-to-answer questions that developers ask while they are trying to comprehend their programs, and then to develop tools to help answer those questions. For example, when studying programmers working on everyday bugs, we found that they continuously ask “Why” and “Why Not” questions as they try to comprehend what happened. We developed the “Whyline” debugging tool, which allows programmers to directly ask these questions of their programs and get a visualization of the answers. In a small lab study, Whyline increased productivity by a factor of about two. We studied professional programmers trying to understand unfamiliar code and identified over 100 questions they identified as hard-to-answer. In particular, we saw that programmers frequently had specific questions about the feasible execution paths, so we developed a new visualization tool to directly present this information. When trying to use unfamiliar APIs, such as the Java SDK and the SAP eSOA APIs, we discovered some common patterns that make programmers up to 10 times slower in finding and understanding how to use the appropriate methods, so we developed new tools to assist them. This talk will provide an overview of our studies and resulting tools that address program comprehension issues.
Laparoscopic versus open appendectomy: a prospective randomized double-blind study.

Background Data: The value of laparoscopy in appendicitis is not established. Studies suffer from multiple limitations. Our aim is to compare the safety and benefits of laparoscopic versus open appendectomy in a prospective randomized double blind study. Methods: Two hundred forty-seven patients were analyzed following either laparoscopic or open appendectomy. A standardized wound dressing was applied blinding both patients and independent data collectors. Surgical technique was standardized among 4 surgeons. The main outcome measures were postoperative complications. Secondary outcome measures included evaluation of pain and activity scores at base line preoperatively and on every postoperative day, as well as resumption of diet and length of stay. Activity scores and quality of life were assessed on short-term follow-up. Results: There was no mortality. The overall complication rate was similar in both groups (18.5% versus 17% in the laparoscopic and open groups respectively), but some early complications in the laparoscopic group required a reoperation. Operating time was significantly longer in the laparoscopic group (80 minutes versus 60 minutes; P = 0.000) while there was no difference in the pain scores and medications, resumption of diet, length of stay, or activity scores. At 2 weeks, there was no difference in the activity or pain scores, but physical health and general scores on the short-form 36 (SF36) quality of life assessment forms were significantly better in the laparoscopic group. Appendectomy for acute or complicated (perforated and gangrenous) appendicitis had similar complication rates, regardless of the technique (P = 0.181). Conclusions: Unlike other minimally invasive procedures, laparoscopic appendectomy did not offer a significant advantage over open appendectomy in all studied parameters except quality of life scores at 2 weeks. It also took longer to perform. The choice of the procedure should be based on surgeon or patient preference.
Further study of the Kosterlitz-Thouless transition in 4He films.

We report measurements of the effective thermal conductance of a $^{4}\mathrm{He}$ film on glass substrates as a function of film thickness and applied thermal power. The experiments were performed on Pyrex substrates of two geometries: the ``bow-tie'' configuration of Maps and Hallock and a rectangular ribbon shape. On the superfluid side of the transition the relation \ensuremath{\Delta}T\ensuremath{\propto}Q${\ifmmode \dot{}\else \.{}\fi{}}^{\ensuremath{\gamma}}$ is confirmed for both substrates. Geometry-dependent effects in the vicinity of the transition are briefly discussed.
Algebra in Roth, Faulhaber, and Descartes☆

Abstract Descartes' “multiplicative” theory of equations in the Geometrie (1637) systematically treats equations as polynomials set equal to zero, bringing out relations between equations, roots, and polynomial factors. We here consider this theory as a response to Peter Roth's suggestions in Arithmetica Philosophica (1608), notably in his “seventh-degree” problem set. These specimens of arithmetic-masterly problem design develop skills with multiplicative and other degree-independent techniques. The challenges were fine-tuned by introducing errors disguised as printing errors. During Descartes' visit to Germany in 1619–1622, he probably worked with Johann Faulhaber (1580–1635) on these problems; they are discussed in Faulhaber's Miracula Arithmetica (1622), which also looks forward to fuller publication, probably by Descartes.
Opportunities for Improving the Cost-Effectiveness of Antihypertensive Treatment

Abstract Hypertension is an extremely important public health problem, both medically and economically. The cost burden of treatment may significantly compromise care for the individual patient, while in aggregate the direct costs of antihypertensive treatment in the United States approach $8 billion a year. Improved insurance coverage and efforts to control the costs of antihypertensive treatment are needed. Efforts to reduce the costs of care, with minimal or no reduction in its quality, should focus on the following: (1) limiting treatment to patients with sustained diastolic hypertension; (2) improving the efficiency of the delivery process; and (3) emphasizing "low-cost prescribing strategies." The uncertainty that remains over the risk-benefit ratio of pharmacologic treatment for patients with very mild hypertension (90 to 94 mm Hg diastolic) raises additional questions. Even if treatment of mild hypertension is effective, it is without doubt less cost-effective than treatment of moderate and severe hypertension. Is this cost worthwhile? Such trade-offs of cost and benefits will increasingly have to be confronted in the face of limited health care resources.
Design Construction and Testing of a Flying Prey Simulator

The goal of this research project is to investigate the neuronal control of flying prey interception in dragonflies by designing, constructing, and testing an apparatus to simulate the complex motions of a flying insect. Our three-dimensional motion device is capable of mimicking a flying insect by moving a small bead accurately up to speeds of 1 m/s in any direction. Dragonflies are efficient aerial predators that can intercept and capture small insects in flight. Our stimulus device will be used to determine the way in which dragonfly neurons encode information about object movement in three dimensions. Sinusoidal position tracking experiments using multiple input frequencies were conducted using the apparatus. The results indicate that the machine operates with good repeatability with little variability between trials. Preliminary dragonfly testing with the apparatus showed favorable results, indicating proof of concept.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Evaluating the influence of conservation plans on land protection actions in Wisconsin, USA

Conservation plans are a common management tool, but are rarely evaluated for their influence on conservation actions. We assessed four statewide conservation plans and 371 local land protection projects developed by a state land management agency in the United States. We asked whether completion of statewide plans and approval of local projects were associated with changes in the amount, location, and landcover composition of subsequently protected lands. We found a weak relationship between statewide plans and land protection actions. Completion of two of four plans was associated with an increase in land protection statewide or within plan boundaries. However, 58% of lands protected within 20 years of plan completion were outside plan boundaries. Further, the proportion of statewide land protection activity focused inside plan boundaries was lower or not different after plan completion for three of four plans. Conversely, for >90% of local land protection projects, most land protection occurred after formal project approval compared to before, with much of that activity occurring almost immediately. Forests and wetlands were protected more often than planned, while pasture and crop lands were protected less often than planned. We suggest that conservation plans are most likely to influence land protection actions when dependable, multi-year funding for land protection is present, when public, institutional, and political support for implementation are strong; and when agencies commit to an implementation strategy that links broad-scale plans to specific, local land protection projects and is actionable within the framework of existing administrative rules governing agency land protection.
Mystification of the Labor Process in Contemporary Consumer Culture

An addition to an already diverse body of empirical work within cultural studies research is offered by analyzing the mystification of the labor process for children attending Build-A-Bear Workshops. First it is briefly described how customers "build" their own commodities at these Workshops and how the production of stuffed animals at the stores is constructed as an experience that hides the true nature of capitalist manufacturing and service work. It is argued that these Workshops place children in the role of supervisors engaged in facilitating the sort of flexible production that characterizes the contemporary work process. It is noted how the process of naming and creating "birth records" for the stuffed animals allows Build-A-Bear Workshops to collect valuable personal information on individuals and families. In sum, it is found that Build-A-Bear Workshops socialize children into the commodification of sentiment, the role of middle managers, and a lifestyle of consuming prefabricated products and ex...
Land Markets in Developing and Transition Economies: Impact of Liberalization and Implications for Future Reform

Well-functioning land markets can, in principle, contribute to broad-based rural development in several ways. First, where the ownership distribution of land differs from the optimum operational structure, land markets can transfer land from less to more productive producers and thus increase productivity. Second, transferable land rights make it less costly for rural residents to take jobs in the nonfarm economy, something that is likely to boost the off-farm sector. Third, transferability of land increases investment incentives because those who make such an investment can enjoy the benefits even if they are no longer able to personally use the land. Finally, the ability to transfer land at low cost will reduce the transaction
Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases‐2 inhibits bFGF‐induced human microvascular endothelial cell proliferation

Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP-2), a protease inhibitor that binds to the latent and active forms of 72 kDa type IV collagenase (gelatinase A), was found to inhibit the in vitro proliferation of human microvascular endothelial (HME) cells stimulated with bFGF and 5% serum. The maximal inhibitory effect of TIMP-2 on incorporation of 3H-thymidine was evident 24 hours after bFGF stimulation of these cells and ranged between 45 and 60%. The half-maximal effective concentration of TIMP-2 was 107 +/- 12 nM (S.D.). In contrast, TIMP-1 was not found to slow the growth of HME cells. The inhibition of cell proliferation observed with TIMP-2 was not mimicked by addition to the culture medium of BB94, a general matrix metalloproteinase inhibitor, nor antibodies to the 72 kDa type IV collagenase. In addition to growth, two other cell functions associated with the angiogenic process were tested for sensitivity to TIMP-2. Cell adhesion to tissue culture plastic was slightly stimulated by TIMP-2, and cell migration was inhibited with short-term exposure to TIMP-2, but neither process was affected by longer-term exposure. The ability of TIMP-2 to inhibit cultured endothelial cell proliferation independent of protease inhibitory activity suggests that TIMP-2 may have additional actions which may limit neovascularization associated with solid tumor growth and metastasis in vivo.
New insulating materials and their use to achieve high operating stresses in electrostatic machines

Abstract Compressed gas insulation has provided the main insulation for sustaining terminal voltages of electrostatic accelerators. Essentially coaxial geometry is used with mechanical support of the terminal achieved by long columns which also support the acceleration tubes. Because of the vacuum insulation in the acceleration tubes, the electric gradient along the columns is typically 10–20 kV/cm, whereas the radial gas gap can operate at stresses about ten times larger. Until now, the terminal support has always been located in the low stress axial direction along the column and not in the radial high stress region. This paper is concerned with support insulation to be used in the radial direction. Advantages of radial supports include: simpler, more compact column structures, higher total voltages, and support of discrete stress redistribution electrodes such as vivitron. Important factors to the design of radial support insulators include the insulation constraints imposed by the gas gap, mechanical contact to the solid insulator, and basic limits of gas-solid dielectric interfaces. The gas gap insulation strength is shown to be limited by surface microirregularities and this accounts for electrode area and pressure effects. Based on the gas gap requirements, a design strategy for the insulators is developed. Epoxy is employed as the dielectric to allow the use of cast-in metal inserts at the ends. The inserts provide mechanical contact, shielding of the triple junction, and redistribution of the interface electric stresses. By careful design, the electric stress on the interface is made lower than that in the plain coaxial electrode gap. Practical experience shows that voltage increases linearly with insulator length and that designs achieve more than 10 MV/m into the multimegavolt region.
1D PIC simulation of microscale breakdown in gaps with a non-uniform background neutral gas density

Summary form only given. An explicit, electrostatic particle-in-cell (PIC) code with complex boundary conditions and direct simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) particle collisions is utilized to investigate one dimensional direct current breakdown. Two electrodes are separated by a microscale gap with a non-uniform neutral gas distribution. For example, there may be a higher density near the anode as a result of vacuum seal failure near the anode. The simulation model includes Auger neutralization and cold field electron emission from the cathode as well as electron-neutral elastic, ionization, and excitation interactions. The simulated breakdown voltages at various electrode gap sizes are compared to experimental data and the Paschen curve. Previously, it has been found that cold field electron emission can explain the breakdown voltage deviation from the Paschen curve measured for small gaps. Furthermore, even in large gaps, as breakdown proceeds the plasma density becomes large enough and thus the cathode sheath thin enough that cold field emission dominates and super-exponential current growth results. Breakdown was found to be sensitive to the neutral gas density distribution across the gap. Specifically, if the gap is large enough that the cold field emission is negligible then gas concentrated near the cathode results in higher breakdown voltages since electrons leaving the cathode due to Auger neutralization are not yet energetic enough to ionize the high density neutral gas at the cathode. Conversely, if the gap size is of order the mean free path then gas concentrated near the anode results in smaller breakdown voltages because the electrons reaching the anode have energies near the peak of the ionization cross section near the higher density anode region. These lower breakdown voltages should be taken into account when designing vacuum electronics for failure tolerance.
A Noninferiority Trial of a Problem-Solving Intervention for Hospice Caregivers: In Person versus Videophone

Abstract Purpose of the study: Problem-solving therapy (PST) has been found effective when delivered to informal caregivers of patients with various conditions. In hospice, however, its translation to practice is impeded by the increased resources needed for its delivery. The study purpose was to compare the effectiveness of a PST intervention delivered face-to-face with one delivered via videophone to hospice primary caregivers. Design and methods: The study design was a randomized noninferiority trial with two groups, Group 1 in which caregivers received PST face-to-face, and Group 2 in which caregivers received PST via videophone. Family hospice caregivers were recruited from two urban hospice agencies and received the PST intervention (in three visits for Group 1 or three video-calls in Group 2) in an approximate period of 20 days after hospice admission. Standard caregiver demographic data were collected. Psychometric instruments administered to caregivers at baseline and at study completion included...
Prevalence and clinical characteristics of mental rituals in a longitudinal clinical sample of obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Background Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a chronic and debilitating anxiety disorder associated with significant impairment in quality of life and functioning. Research examining the differences in clinical correlates and treatment response associated with different obsessions in OCD has yielded important findings underscoring the heterogeneous nature of this disorder. To date, most of this research has focused on differences associated with primary obsessions, and little attention has been paid to the clinical utility of studying how compulsive symptoms affect clinical course. Virtually no systematic research has explored the clinical characteristics of one understudied symptom presentation, mental rituals, and what impact this primary symptom has on severity and course of illness. Mental rituals, or compulsions without overt signs, represent unique clinical challenges but often go understudied for numerous methodological and clinical reasons.
A new mechanistic growth model for simultaneous determination of lag phase duration and exponential growth rate and a new Bĕlehdrádek-type model for evaluating the effect of temperature on growth rate

A new mechanistic growth model was developed to describe microbial growth under isothermal conditions. The new mathematical model was derived from the basic observation of bacterial growth that may include lag, exponential, and stationary phases. With this model, the lag phase duration and exponential growth rate of a growth curve were simultaneously determined by nonlinear regression. The new model was validated using Listeria monocytogenes and Escherichia coli O157:H7 in broth or meat. Statistical results suggested that both bias factor (B(f)) and accuracy factor (A(f)) of the new model were very close to 1.0. A new Bĕlehdradek-type rate model and the Ratkowsky square-root model were used to describe the temperature dependence of bacterial growth rate. It was observed that the maximum and minimum temperatures were more accurately estimated by a new Bĕlehdradek-type rate model. Further, the inverse of square-roots of lag phases was found proportional to temperature, making it possible to estimate the lag phase duration from the growth temperature.
Potential-Dependent Metal−Adsorbate Stretching Frequencies for Carbon Monoxide on Transition-Metal Electrodes: Chemical Bonding versus Electrostatic Field Effects

The dependence of the metal−carbon vibrational frequency (νM-C) upon electrode potential (E) for saturated CO adlayers on palladium, platinum, rhodium, and iridium film electrodes is examined in comparison with that for the well-studied intramolecular (C−O) vibration (νCO) by means of surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) in order to evaluate the likely roles of chemical bonding versus the electrostatic field in the electrochemical Stark effect. In each case, the dνM-C/dE values are negative, from ca. −10 to −20 cm-1 V-1, contrasting the positive dνCO/dE values, ca. 30 to 60 cm-1 V-1, observed for adsorbed CO on these Pt group metals. The findings are compared with the predictions of theoretical treatments which account variously for the roles of the interfacial electrostatic field (i.e., the classical vibrational Stark effect) and potential-dependent chemical bonding (i.e., metal−adsorbate orbital overlap). It is necessary to invoke that the latter factor is exerting a major role in the surface−adso...
Clinical predictors of elective total joint replacement in persons with end-stage knee osteoarthritis

Arthritis is a leading cause of disability in the United States. Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has become the gold standard to manage the pain and disability associated with knee osteoarthritis (OA). Although more than 400 000 primary TKA surgeries are performed each year in the United States, not all individuals with knee OA elect to undergo the procedure. No clear consensus exists on criteria to determine who should undergo TKA. The purpose of this study was to determine which clinical factors will predict the decision to undergo TKA in individuals with end-stage knee OA. Knowledge of these factors will aid in clinical decision making for the timing of TKA. Functional data from one hundred twenty persons with end-stage knee OA were obtained through a database. All of the individuals complained of knee pain during daily activities and had radiographic evidence of OA. Functional and clinical tests, collectively referred to as the Delaware Osteoarthritis Profile, were completed by a physical therapist. This profile consisted of measuring height, weight, quadriceps strength and active knee range of motion, while functional mobility was assessed using the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test and the Stair Climbing Task (SCT). Self-perceived functional ability was measured using the activities of daily living subscale of the Knee Outcome Survey (KOS-ADLS). A logistic regression model was used to identify variables predictive of TKA use. Forty subjects (33%) underwent TKA within two years of evaluation. These subjects were significantly older and had significantly slower TUG and SCT times (p < 0.05). Persons that underwent TKA were also significantly weaker, had lower self-reported function and had less knee extension than persons who did not undergo TKA. No differences between groups were seen for BMI, gender, knee flexion ROM and unilateral versus bilateral joint disease. Using backward regression, age, knee extension ROM and KOS-ADLS together significantly predicted whether or not a person would undergo TKA (p ≤ 0.001, R2 = 0.403). Younger patients with full knee ROM who have a higher self-perception of function are less likely to undergo TKA. Physicians and clinicians should be aware that potentially modifiable factors, such as knee ROM can be addressed to potentially postpone the need for TKA.
De novo osteogenic sarcoma in patients older than forty : benefit of multimodality therapy

The treatment of primary osteogenic sarcoma is well established in younger patients; however, controversy surrounds the treatment of this disease in the older population. To confirm multimodality therapy results in longer survival than surgery alone, 58 patients older than 40 years with primary osteogenic sarcoma were assessed retrospectively for the benefits of multimodality treatment versus surgery alone. We then asked whether specific patient and tumor characteristics and treatment modalities affected the rates of survival. Finally, we questioned whether pulmonary metastatectomy increased survival. The 5-year and 10-year overall survival for the group was 58% and 44%, respectively. Multimodality therapy increased survival compared with surgery alone in patients with high-grade disease. On multivariate analysis, considerable prognostic factors for improved overall survival for the entire group were age 3 younger than 60 years, volume less than 100 cm, normal alkaline phosphatase, localized disease, negative surgical margins, and absence of recurrence. Pulmonary metastatectomy improved survival in selected patients.
Experiences and successes in teaching a language many CS students didn't want to learn: COBOL

Many computer science students see no value in taking a COBOL programming course until they begin to notice the number of job advertisements requiring the applicant to have knowledge of the language. Even if students are aware that knowledge of the COBOL language could help them to locate an entry level job, many still find the course to be less than exciting. The presentation of the COBOL course has evolved over the past four years from an introduction to COBOL programming, to introduction to COBOL via a software engineering approach, to introduction to COBOL, software engineering, and how it applies to real world events and situations. Over these years the response of the students to the course has improved, the amount of material covered has increased, and students are finding jobs which require knowledge of COBOL.
Reducing power in high-performance microprocessors

Power consumption has become one of the biggest challenges in high-performance microprocessor design. The rapid increase in the complexity and speed of each new CPU generation is outstripping the benefits of voltage reduction and feature size scaling. Designers are thus continuously challenged to come up with innovative ways to reduce power, while trying to meet all the other constraints imposed on the design. This paper presents an overview of the issues related to power consumption in the context of Intel CPUs. The main trends that are driving the increased focus on design for low power are described. System and benchmarking issues, and sources of power consumption in a high-performance CPU are briefly described. Techniques that have been tried on real designs in the past are described. The role of CAD tools and their limitations in this domain will also be discussed. In addition, areas that need increased research focus in the future are also pointed out.
High and Balanced Hole and Electron Mobilities from Ambipolar Thin-Film Transistors Based on Nitrogen-Containing Oligoacences

We demonstrate a strategy for designing high-performance, ambipolar, acene-based field-effect transistor (FET) materials, which is based on the replacement of C−H moieties by nitrogen atoms in oligoacenes. By using this strategy, two organic semiconductors, 6,13-bis(triisopropylsilylethynyl)anthradipyridine (1) and 8,9,10,11-tetrafluoro-6,13-bis(triisopropylsilylethynyl)-1-azapentacene (3), were synthesized and their FET characteristics studied. Both materials exhibit high and balanced hole and electron mobilities, 1 having μh and μe of 0.11 and 0.15 cm2/V·s and 3 having μh and μe of 0.08 and 0.09 cm2/V·s, respectively. The successful demonstration of high and balanced ambipolar FET properties from nitrogen-containing oligoacenes opens up new opportunities for designing high-performance ambipolar organic semiconductors.
Programs, tests, and oracles: the foundations of testing revisited

In previous decades, researchers have explored the formal foundations of program testing. By exploring the foundations of testing largely separate from any specific method of testing, these researchers provided a general discussion of the testing process, including the goals, the underlying problems, and the limitations of testing. Unfortunately, a common, rigorous foundation has not been widely adopted in empirical software testing research, making it difficult to generalize and compare empirical research. We continue this foundational work, providing a framework intended to serve as a guide for future discussions and empirical studies concerning software testing. Specifically, we extend Gourlay's functional description of testing with the notion of a test oracle, an aspect of testing largely overlooked in previous foundational work and only lightly explored in general. We argue additional work exploring the interrelationship between programs, tests, and oracles should be performed, and use our extension to clarify concepts presented in previous work, present new concepts related to test oracles, and demonstrate that oracle selection must be considered when discussing the efficacy of a testing process.