cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A 3D fully parallel thinning algorithm for generating medial faces

Abstract Thinning is a process which erodes an object layer by layer until only its skeleton is left. A thinning algorithm should preserve connectivity, i.e., any object and its skeleton should maintain the same connectivity structure. In this paper, we propose a 3D fully parallel thinning algorithm. Our approach also demonstrates a possible way for designing a new generation of 3D parallel thinning algorithms.
Computing Curricula for the 21st Century

This article describes the role and place of software engineering in modern computing curricula, focusing on dependable systems that can be implemented using microprocessors and programmable logic. In this time of the increasing role of software and proliferation of computing in all areas of technology and human endeavor, there is critical need for education of engineers who can understand the system as a whole, appreciating both software and hardware and their mutual connection. The similarity and difference of approaches between traditional computing software and modern programmable-logic hardware is discussed. Modern systems require good engineering considering not only the system's functionality but also dependability and safety.
Bone anabolic effects of subcutaneous treatment with basic fibroblast growth factor alone and in combination with estrogen in osteopenic ovariectomized rats

Although basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) is a potent stimulator of bone formation when administered intravenously, less is known regarding the effects of this peptide on bone following subcutaneous (s.c.) administration. In addition, it is unknown whether coadministration of estrogen enhances the bone response to treatment with bFGF. Therefore, the purpose of this study was (1) to characterize the skeletal response to s.c. injection of a high dose of bFGF, and (2) to determine whether concurrent administration of estrogen affects the skeletal response to bFGF treatment. Female Sprague-Dawley rats were ovariectomized (ovx) or sham-operated (sham) at 3 months of age and left untreated for 2 months to establish cancellous osteopenia in the ovx group. The sham rats (n=10) and one group of ovx rats (n=9) were then injected s.c. with vehicle alone for 3 weeks. Two additional groups of ovx rats were injected s.c. with bFGF (n=10) or with bFGF + estrogen (n=10) for 3 weeks. bFGF was administered s.c. at a daily dose of 1 mg/kg/day and estrogen was administered s.c. 4 days per week at a dose of 10 microg/kg for the 3-week duration of treatment. Lumbar vertebrae were collected and processed undecalcified for quantitative bone histomorphometry. Cancellous bone volume was lower and cancellous bone turnover was higher in vehicle-treated ovx rats than in vehicle-treated sham rats. Subcutaneous treatment of ovx rats with bFGF for 3 weeks resulted in a 4-fold increase in osteoblast surface and an 8-fold increase in osteoid surface in comparison to vehicle treatment of ovx rats. Osteoid volume was also markedly increased in the bFGF-treated ovx rats (7 +/- 4%) in comparison to vehicle-treated ovx rats (<0.1%). Osteoblast surface, osteoid surface, and osteoid volume were nearly identical in ovx rats treated with bFGF alone and with bFGF + estrogen. Although the majority of the osteoid in bFGF- and bFGF + estrogen-treated animals was deposited along mineralized bone surfaces, osteoid spicules without any connections to preexisting bone surfaces were also detected, providing definitive proof for bone formation within bone marrow in response to bFGF administration. Osteoclast surface, an index of bone resorption, was not affected by bFGF treatment. However, cotreatment of ovx rats with bFGF + estrogen resulted in lower osteoclast surface in comparison to treatment of ovx rats with either vehicle or bFGF alone. In summary, these findings indicate that administration of a high dose of bFGF via s.c. injection markedly increases bone formation and may be a useful treatment for cancellous osteopenia in the estrogen-deplete skeleton. The anabolic effects of bFGF on bone are not enhanced by concurrent treatment with estrogen at the replacement dose used in this study.
In-Situ Tem Studies of Recrystallization and Grain Growth in Al-Mg-Mn-Zr Alloys

Recrystallization and grain growth studies of Al-Mg-Mn-Zr alloys have been carried out in-situ in the transmission electron microscope. Nucleation sites were primarily on large (>1 μm diameter) eutectic constituent particles. The sub-micron Al6Mn dispersoids were observed to be effective as nuclei if present in clusters, and were effective at retarding grain boundary migration and dislocation motion. The smaller Al3Zr precipitates seemed to have little effect on nucleation and growth, but were effective in pinning dislocations. These results have been analyzed in terms of precipitate size and shape in both the as-cold-worked microstructure and during recrystallization. The implications on the microstructural refinement of these alloys for improved superplastic properties will be discussed.
Optimal information exchange

Abstract If information is costly and there exist many methods for partially sharing information, does the form of the optimal (i.e. expected firm profit maximizing) information exchange method vary with the motive for that exchange? In this paper it is shown that there are indeed differences. For competing firms (exchanging information purely for purposes of uncertainty resolution) the optimal method may involve sharing information in multiple pools within the industry. The existence of several trade associations operating independent exchanges of information in what appears to be a single industry might be interpreted as an example of multiple information sharing pools. By contrast, colluding firms exchanging information for the purposes of facilitating collusion (as well as resolving uncertainty) always find it optimal to share private information in just one pool. The results in this paper have implications for the design of an empirical test to distinguish between the motives for exchanging information.
Magnetic suspension for levitated tracked vehicles

Abstract Magnetic suspension concepts are reviewed to discover their suitability for levitating high speed trains. In the two most promising proposed concepts, the conducting sheet and null flux suspensions, cryogenic d c magnets on the moving train induce currents in a metal track at ambient temperature. The magnetic interaction between the track and train currents can suspend trains weighing 100 000 lb per 100 ft (150 000 kg per 100 m) with track-train clearances of several inches. The two suspensions are critically evaluated with regard to lift capabilities, magnetic drag forces, stability, damping, and cryogenic requirements. The null flux suspension has much lower drag, greater stability, faster damping, but requires substantially more cryogenic equipment. The design, operation, and cost of the proposed train magnets (both super and cryoconducting) is considered. The required field strengths and refrigeration are easily met by current technology. Cryogenic costs are small compared with other system costs. Magnetic propulsion concepts using cryogenic train magnets are also discussed.
Deletion of Macrophage LDL Receptor–Related Protein Increases Atherogenesis in the Mouse

Macrophage low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein (LRP) mediates internalization of remnant lipoproteins, and it is generally thought that blocking lipoprotein internalization will reduce foam cell formation and atherogenesis. Therefore, our study examined the function of macrophage LRP in atherogenesis. We generated transgenic mice that specifically lack macrophage LRP through Cre/lox recombination. Transplantation of macrophage LRP(-/-) bone marrow into lethally irradiated female LDLR(-/-) recipient mice resulted in a 40% increase in atherosclerosis. The difference in atherosclerosis was not caused by altered serum lipoprotein levels. Furthermore, deletion of macrophage LRP decreased uptake of (125)I-very-low-density lipoprotein compared with wild-type cells in vitro. The increase in atherosclerosis was accompanied by increases in monocyte chemoattractant protein type-1, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and proximal aorta macrophage cellularity. We also found that deletion of macrophage LRP increases matrix metalloproteinase-9. This increase in matrix metalloproteinase-9 was associated with a higher frequency of breaks in the elastic lamina. Contrary to what was found with other lipoprotein receptors, deletion of LRP increases atherogenesis in hypercholesterolemic mice. Our data support the hypothesis that macrophage LRP modulates atherogenesis through regulation of inflammatory responses.
Challenges in translational research: the views of addiction scientists.

Objectives To explore scientists' perspectives on the challenges and pressures of translating research findings into clinical practice and public health policy. Methods We conducted semi-structured interviews with a purposive sample of 20 leading scientists engaged in genetic research on addiction. We asked participants for their views on how their own research translates, how genetic research addresses addiction as a public health problem and how it may affect the public's view of addiction. Results Most scientists described a direct translational route for their research, positing that their research will have significant societal benefits, leading to advances in treatment and novel prevention strategies. However, scientists also pointed to the inherent pressures they feel to quickly translate their research findings into actual clinical or public health use. They stressed the importance of allowing the scientific process to play out, voicing ambivalence about the recent push to speed translation. Conclusions High expectations have been raised that biomedical science will lead to new prevention and treatment modalities, exerting pressure on scientists. Our data suggest that scientists feel caught in the push for immediate applications. This overemphasis on rapid translation can lead to technologies and applications being rushed into use without critical evaluation of ethical, policy, and social implications, and without balancing their value compared to public health policies and interventions currently in place.
General surgery morning report: a competency-based conference that enhances patient care and resident education.

Purpose After adopting a night float system, the residency program at the University of Virginia Health System Department of Surgery initiated a daily morning report (MR). The conference was originated to sign out new admissions and consults from the previous day to the services that would assume care. Although initially oriented toward transfer of patient information, MR is also hypothesized to serve as a competency-based resident education tool. Methods An anonymous survey was distributed to on-service residents (n = 25). Questions were asked on a 5-point Likert scale. Respondents also ranked the weekly conferences, including MR, in terms of educational benefit derived. Results Most residents agreed that MR is an efficient method to sign-out patient care [84% stongly agree (SA) or agree (A)] and that it provides an excellent educational experience (88% SA or A). They agreed that it is presented in an evidence-based format (88% SA or A). Regarding the core competencies, residents all asserted that MR addresses "patient care" (100% SA or A) and "medical knowledge" (100% SA or A). Most agreed that it addresses "professionalism" (60% SA or A), "interpersonal skills and communication" (76% SA or A), and "practice-based learning and improvement" (92% SA or A). The 4 most important components identified with respect to continuing to improve both patient care and resident education were the presence of the on-call attending, a review of relevant radiology, provision of follow-up on select cases, and critical review of the literature. On average, MR was seen as the most educational conference, with 52% of residents ranking it first. Conclusions Although MR is ubiquitous in most primary care residency programs, such a conference has not typically been held on surgical services. The MR was developed at the University of Virginia Health System Department of Surgery as a necessity for patient sign-out. As this conference has continued to evolve, it has become an excellent tool for resident education. It now serves the purpose of enhancing patient care and medical education and of providing evidence of learning and assessment of the general competencies. The MR provides an example for program directors of how to tailor existing resident work sessions or conferences to meet Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) competency requirements.
Thermal capsulorrhaphy of the shoulder

Arthroscopic management of glenohumeral instability is increasingly recognized as an alternative to open reconstruction. Reports of recurrence rates continue to decrease because of improved techniques and a better understanding of the pathophysiology of shoulder instability. The indications and results may be improved on with the addition of thermal capsulorrhaphy using a radiofrequency probe to "shrink" the capsular regions contributing to residual laxity. We describe our surgical techniques and postoperative rehabilitation after thermal modification of the glenohumeral joint.
The True Height of an Ionospheric Layer

A simple method has been developed for the analysis of ionospheric sweep-frequency records in terms of the scale height and true height of maximum of the layer of Chapman form which most closely fits the observed data. It is shown that the height of maximum determined by the method of Appleton, Booker, and Seaton is the height of a parabolic layer which is not coincident with the parabola that most closely fits the Chapman distribution. The present method includes a correction for retardation in one or more layers of similar form which lie below the reflecting layer.
Saturn's magnetic tail: structure and dynamics

Voyager 1 magnetic field observations have provided evidence of a Saturnian magnetic tail. Tail current system distributions are inferred through comparison of the observations with a realistic magnetotail current system model. Temporal variations observed in the tail were probably produced by solar wind variations.
Influence of Ablation on Radiative Heating for Earth Entry

Using the coupled ablation and radiation capability recently included in the LAURA flowfield solver, this paper investigates the influence of ablation on the shock-layer radiative heating for Earth entry. The extension of the HARA radiation model, which provides the radiation predictions in LAURA, to treat a gas consisting of the elements C, H, O, and N is discussed. It is shown that the absorption coefficient of air is increased with the introduction of the C and H elements. A simplified shock layer model is studied to show the impact of temperature, as well as the abundance of C and H, on the net absorption or emission from an ablation contaminated boundary layer. It is found that the ablation species reduce the radiative flux in the vacuum ultraviolet, through increased absorption, for all temperatures. However, in the infrared region of the spectrum, the ablation species increase the radiative flux, through strong emission, for temperatures above 3,000 K. Thus, depending on the temperature and abundance of ablation species, the contaminated boundary layer may either provide a net increase or decrease in the radiative flux reaching the wall. To assess the validity of the coupled ablation and radiation LAURA analysis, a previously analyzed Mars-return case (15.24 km/s), which contains significant ablation and radiation coupling, is studied. Exceptional agreement with previous viscous shock-layer results is obtained. A 40% decrease in the radiative flux is predicted for ablation rates equal to 20% of the free-stream mass flux. The Apollo 4 peak-heating case (10.24 km/s) is also studied. For ablation rates up to 3.4% of the free-stream mass flux, the radiative heating is reduced by up to 19%, while the convective heating is reduced by up to 87%. Good agreement with the Apollo 4 radiometer data is obtained by considering absorption in the radiometer cavity. For both the Mars return and the Apollo 4 cases, coupled radiation alone is found to reduce the radiative heating by 30 60% and the convective heating by less than 5%.
Change Curve Estimation via Wavelets

Abstract The recently developed theory of wavelets has a remarkable ability to “zoom in” on very short-lived frequency phenomena, such as transients in signals and singularities in functions, and hence provides an ideal tool to study localized changes. This article proposes a wavelet method for estimating jump and sharp cusp curves of a function in the plane. The method involves first computing wavelet transformation of data and then estimating jump and sharp cusp curves by wavelet transformation across fine scales. Asymptotic theory is established, and simulations are carried out to lend some credence to the asymptotic theory. The wavelet estimate is nearly optimal and can be computed by fast algorithms. The method is applied to a real image.
Lower hybrid wave excitation by a fast wave current drive antenna

Excitation of the lower hybrid wave (slow wave) using a launcher designed for fast wave excitation has been observed under conditions where neither direct excitation nor mode conversion is expected to take place. The slow wave was revealed through the presence of its resonance cone. The experiment was performed with Ωi ω Ωe. The coupling of the fast wave into the slow wave is attributed to parasitic excitation, which is a linear mechanism involving electron × motion and charge separation in a density gradient. This process could be a significant loss mechanism for fast wave current drive in toroidal plasmas.
Studies in optimization—VII The application of Pontryagin's methods to the control of batch and tubular reactors

Abstract Pontryagin's principle is here applied to the control of a batch reactor either by the removal of heat or by the addition cold feed. The switching surface which divides regions of adiabatic operation from those of full cooling may be obtained by the integration of Pontryagin's equations. Various cost functions are considered including those which impose a necessary limitation on the total volume.
A simple model for virus-bacteria interaction

Abstract A plausible model is investigated for changes in distribution in a mixture of viruses and bacteria. The mathematical analysis pivots on the continued exponentiation function. It develops that even for relatively small virus proliferation rates compared to those of bacteria, if there is a sufficiently high initial concentration, the viruses will eventually overwhelm the bacteria.
Community duplicate diet methodology: A new tool for estimating dietary exposures to pesticides

An observational field study was conducted to assess the feasibility of a community duplicate diet collection method; a dietary monitoring tool that is population-based. The purpose was to establish an alternative procedure to duplicate diet sampling that would be more efficient for a large, defined population, e.g., in the National Children's Study (NCS). Questionnaire data and food samples were collected in a residence so as not to lose the important component of storage, preparation, and handling in a contaminated microenvironment. The participants included nine Hispanic women of child bearing age living in Apopka, FL, USA. Foods highly consumed by Hispanic women were identified based on national food frequency questionnaires and prioritized by permethrin residue concentrations as measured for the Pesticide Data Program. Participants filled out questionnaires to determine if highly consumed foods were commonly eaten by them and to assess the collection protocol for the food samples. Measureable levels of permethrin were found in 54% of the samples. Questionnaire responses indicated that the collection of the community duplicate diet was feasible for a defined population.
Auditory responsivity and intrauterine growth retardation in small for gestational age human newborns.

Abstract Auditory responsivity in term small for gestational age (SGA) compared to term appropriate for gestational age (AGA) human newborns reflects functional differences which may be attributable to intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR). Between-group comparisons of percent of responses of averaged late component auditory evoked events (AEEs) to pure tone stimuli (500, 1000, 2000, 4000, 6000 and 8000 Hz) at 63 and 80 dB SPL revealed significantly greater AGA responsivity at 80 dB SPL. Conversely, the AEE mean latencies were significantly shorter for SGA infants at both intensity levels. Between-group responsivity differences suggest developmental retardation in term (38–42 weeks) SGA newborns, but the faster SGA latencies may reflect ‘induced’ acceleration in auditory neurophysiologic function.
Replacement of Virus-Destroyed Epithelium by Keratinized Squamous Cells in Vitamin A-Deprived Chickens

SummaryOne localized area of nasal mucous membrane in chickens was selectively susceptible to initial infection with a myxovirus (NDV) and a giant-cell-forming herpesvirus (LTV). The same quite extensive mucosal area shows earliest signs of incipient keratinizing metaplasia in vitamin A-deprived chickens, and complete conversion to keratinized epithelium following NDV infection. Specific questions of interplay of A-deficiency and respiratory infection are open to study in this whole-animal model.
Long-Term Nitrogen Additions and Nitrogen Saturation in Two Temperate Forests

This article reports responses of two different forest ecosystems to 9 years (1988–96) of chronic nitrogen (N) additions at the Harvard Forest, Petersham, Massachusetts. Ammonium nitrate (NH4NO3) was applied to a pine plantation and a native deciduous broad-leaved (hardwood) forest in six equal monthly doses (May–September) at four rates: control (no fertilizer addition), low N (5 g N m-2 y-1), high N (15 g N m-2 y-1), and low N + sulfur (5 g N m-2 y-1 plus 7.4 g S m-2 y-1). Measurements were made of net N mineralization, net nitrification, N retention, wood production, foliar N content and litter production, soil C and N content, and concentrations of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and nitrogen (DON) in soil water. In the pine stand, nitrate losses were measured after the first year of additions (1989) in the high N plot and increased again in 1995 and 1996. The hardwood stand showed no significant increases in nitrate leaching until 1995 (high N only), with further increases in 1996. Overall N retention efficiency (percentage of added N retained) over the 9-year period was 97–100% in the control and low N plots of both stands, 96% in the hardwood high N plot, and 85% in the pine high N plot. Storage in aboveground biomass, fine roots, and soil extractable pools accounted for only 16–32% of the added N retained in the amended plots, suggesting that the one major unmeasured pool, soil organic matter, contains the remaining 68–84%. Short-term redistribution of 15N tracer at natural abundance levels showed similar division between plant and soil pools. Direct measurements of changes in total soil C and N pools were inconclusive due to high variation in both stands. Woody biomass production increased in the hardwood high N plot but was significantly reduced in the pine high N plot, relative to controls. A drought-induced increase in foliar litterfall in the pine stand in 1995 is one possible factor leading to a measured increase in N mineralization, nitrification, and nitrate loss in the pine high N plot in 1996.
The Developing Crisis in Information: A Librarian's Perspective

Le passage vers l'ere de l'information electronique cree des conflits entre pays developpes et en developpement. Trois barrieres a la circulation de l'information sont etudiees: l'attribution des frequences radio, la nouvelle organisation de l'information dans le monde et les transferts d'information. On suggere une action des bibliothecaires de tous les pays pour resoudre les problemes
Perceived stress, internal resources, and social support as determinants of mental health among young adults

Background: Mental health is a central determinant of quality of life. While psychiatric morbidity of populations has been studied extensively, the role of perceived stress, social support, and internal resources as determinant of health is still poorly understood. Methods: We surveyed 2000 randomly selected university students. Perceived stress was measured by the Brief Encounter Psychosocial Instrument, social support by the Duke-UNC Functional Social Support Questionnaire, internal resources (mastery and self-esteem) by a brief version of the Pearlin coping questionnaire. Linear regression models were used to explore the relationships between these variables and mental health, based on the SF-12 health survey. Results: After two reminders, 1257 students answered the questionnaire. In bivariate analysis, mental health was negatively associated with stress and positively associated with internal resources and social support (all p-values < 0.001). In multiple regression analysis, internal resources were positively associated with mental health, and buffered the negative impact of stress on mental health. Internal resources and stress mediated the positive impact of social support on mental health. Conclusions: Our data confirm that perceived stress is an important risk factor for low mental health and suggest that mastery and self-esteem are important protective factors of mental health among young adults.
Microchannel cooling device with perforated side walls: Design and modeling

Abstract We propose and analyze a novel two-phase microchannel cooling device that incorporates perforated side walls for potential use as an embedded thermal management solution for high heat flux semiconductor devices. A dense array of perforated side walls separate alternating liquid and vapor microchannels, allowing the vapor generated through evaporation of liquid supplied through micro-perforations to flow only in the dedicated vapor channels. By separating the liquid and vapor flows, these “perspiring” side walls enable us to circumvent flow instabilities and other challenges associated with conventional two-phase microchannel cooling while at the same time effectively take advantage of the large extended surface areas available in high-aspect-ratio microchannels. One implementation of our design is parametrically analyzed using finite element modeling, demonstrating the potential of our proposed device for handling high heat flux electronic and optoelectronic semiconductor devices.
Ultrasonic imaging of organic liquid contaminants in unconsolidated porous media

Laboratory experiments were conducted to measure the change in the ultrasonic wave signature as a function of the fraction of nonaqueous-phase liquid (NAPL) contaminants in initially water-saturated sand samples. This represents a fundamental step in the application of high-frequency seismic measurements to detect and delineate NAPL contamination in groundwater. The NAPL's used are n-dodecane, iso-octane and Freon 113®. P-wave velocity changes almost linearly as a function of the fraction of pore space occupied by NAPL. At a given NAPL fraction, the velocities rank with the bulk moduli of the NAPL's. The percent change in velocity at residual water saturation relative to the water-saturated medium ranges from 15% for n-dodecane to 31% for Freon 113®. Velocity changes are significant relative to the ability of seismic methods to detect changes on the order of 5%. These data are described by a model previously derived by G.T. Kuster and M.N. Toksoz of P-wave transmission through a fluid matrix with spherical inclusions that is modified to account for a two-fluid-phase matrix. Amplitude data as a function of NAPL fraction are described by assuming the distribution of NAPL in the column and using attenuation coefficients for the water-saturated and residual-water medium. Amplitudes are shown to be sensitive to both the fraction of NAPL and its distribution, whereas velocity is only a function of NAPL fraction.
Mediating Interpersonal Conflict in Organizations: Minimal Conditions for Resolution

This article discusses the minimal conditions that must be present in order for movement towards resolution of interpersonal conflict to occur, and brings into question earlier assumptions about the amount of skill a person functioning as a third party mediator must possess in order to be effective.
Fibroblast Growth Factor Homologous Factors in the Heart: A Potential Locus for Cardiac Arrhythmias

The four fibroblast growth factor homologous factors (FHFs; FGF11-FGF14) are intracellular proteins that bind and modulate voltage-gated sodium channels (VGSCs). Although FHFs have been well studied in neurons and implicated in neurologic disease, their role in cardiomyocytes was unclear until recently. This review discusses the expression profile and function of FHFs in mouse and rat ventricular cardiomyocytes. Recent data show that FGF13 is the predominant FHF in the murine heart, directly binds the cardiac VGSC α subunit, and is essential for normal cardiac conduction. FHF loss-of-function mutations may be unrecognized causes of cardiac arrhythmias, such as long QT and Brugada syndromes.
The emission of slow positrons from magnesium oxide powder

From Monte Carlo analyses of measured time-of-flight spectra for slow positrons traveling down a tube which is first evacuated and then filled with low-density helium gas, it is shown that the positrons leave the MgO-coated source grid at angles close to the normal direction. This result is important for low-energy positron collision studies. An interpretation of the result based on the surface charge held by the oxide is proposed.
Integrated three-dimensional interpretation of major concealed faults beneath Mapleton, Utah County, Utah using gravity data, supported with magnetic data

Abstract Gravity and magnetic surveys were conducted to locate major concealed faults beneath Mapleton, Utah County, Utah, a developing city along the Wasatch Front, 80 km south of Salt Lake City, Utah. Although the magnetic data are not as useful for this study due to cultural magnetic noise and logistical limitations in acquiring dense data sets, these data do play a backup role in supporting the gravity data by helping to constrain the interpreted models of the major concealed faults. Data were collected at 196 stations and were processed using conventional techniques. Regional trends were calculated using trend analysis, and residual data were modeled using self-consistent iterative modeling. Ambiguities in the subsurface models were reduced by (1) incorporating data from previous geophysical surveys, surface mapping, trench studies, aerial photos, well data, and earthquake data; (2) integrating the gravity and magnetic data; and (3) correlating the modeled cross sections along numerous selected profiles. The modeled profiles and integrated three-dimensional interpretation indicate that there are four major fault blocks beneath the Mapleton area. These fault blocks are bounded by a series of west-dipping synthetic, listric faults. Depths to the fault blocks range from
The QT interval historically treated.

The growth of knowledge of the QT interval of the ECG is reviewed. 1980 was the centennial of the first careful measurements of Burdon-Sanderson and Page, and also the 60th anniversary of Bazett's contribution that established a predictable relation of the QT to heart rate in normal subjects.
Supersonic flow over a cruciform configuration at angle of attack

EXPERIMENTAL data of the flow about a cruciform configuration is compared with an inviscid finite difference Euler code, SWINT, to assess its predictive capabilities, accuracy, and limitations. Surface pressure distributions and overall aerodynamic coefficients are in good agreement with the computed values using the SWINT code for angles of attack up to 20 deg at Mach 2.7. Contents SWINT is an inviscid flowfield prediction code which treats conventional type missiles by approximating the fins as thin surfaces in meridional planes.1 The code semi-empirically models the cross-flow separation on the leeward surfaces of the body, which occurs at moderate to high angles of attack. The limitations and accuracy of this analysis are considered herein. The aerodynamics of the configuration are also reported. The experiments,2 were conducted with a 1.905-cm-diam model, Fig. 1. A Mach-2.7 blowdown wind tunnel facility was operated at the three stagnation pressures (0.11, 0.45, and 1.24 MPa) and with ambient-temperature air. The purpose of the tests was to assess the Reynolds-number effects on the aerodynamic coefficients. Tests at low Reynolds numbers Cfo?D = 0.19xl06 and 0.38 xlO6) were subsequently conducted with a pressure and force instrumented model 3.831 cm in diam.3 The measured pressure distributions along the most windward ray of the body, shown in Fig. 2, for the cross configuration (4> = 45 deg) are in excellent agreement with the SWINT code for angles of attack less than 20 deg. At higher incidences, the body shock interacts with the ventral fin, subsonic flow regions appear in the fin-body juncture regions on the windward side, and the flow on the leeward surfaces of the body and fins separates. The SWINT code does not handle these situations.2 The pressure variation around the cylindrical portion of the body, at an axial station upstream of the fins, is compared with SWINT in Fig. 3. On the leeward surfaces, the measured data for angles of attack greater than 10 deg show cross-flow separation and the occurrence of a cross-flow shock. Axial pressure distributions at three radial locations (6, 37.5, and 62.5 percent of the fin span) on the windward side of one fin are compared in Fig. 4 with the calculated values for a- 15 deg and 0 = 45 deg. The agreement with the available data is good. The fin shocks appear to be detached at about 40% of the span.
Parametric dislocation dynamics simulation of precipitation hardening in a Ni-based superalloy

Abstract The precipitation hardening in Ni-based superalloys, which contain up to 73% volume fraction of cubic coherent γ ′ precipitates in γ matrix, has been investigated by three-dimensional parametric dislocation dynamics. Dislocations glide under external stress on a (111) slip plane intersected by cubic γ ′ precipitates. The critical resolved shear stress (CRSS), the stress to drive dislocations through precipitates, is evaluated for variations in various microstructural parameters: γ ′ volume fraction, anti-phase boundary (APB) energy and γ channel width (i.e., precipitate/particle spacing). It is shown that the CRSS depends on the square root of the APB energy while being linearly proportional to the volume fraction of γ ′. A microstructure with a non-uniform size distribution of γ ′ has a CRSS that is 20–30% smaller than that of a microstructure with a uniform γ ′ size of the same value as the average γ ′ size in the non-uniform microstructure. This is due to some local channel widths larger than the average channel width, and larger channel widths allow easier bending of the dislocation line. Our results indicate that the channel width plays an important role in determining the CRSS in addition to the γ ′ size. For channels narrower than 20 nm, the CRSS is found to increase with decreasing channel width but to depend only weakly on γ ′ size.
Safety demand and supply: An alternative to fear of crime

This article presents an argument for measuring need for safety and perceived safety resources in the context of other environmental concerns as an alternative to measuring fear of crime. The Environmental Preference Inventory (EPI) and the Environmental Quality Scale (EQS) are presented, and are shown to have adequate internal consistency and construct validity when tested on a sample of university students. The relationships of the EPI and the EQS to traditional measures of fear of crime are examined, and the benefits and limitations of the alternative measures are explored.
Video microscopy and micromechanics studies of one- and two-dimensional colloidal crystals

Colloidal suspension of monodispersed charged polystyrene microspheres provides an excellent experimental system for a study of condensed matter physics. Here we report a series of experiments using video microscopy to study the structure and dynamics of colloidal matter. In the first set of experiments, we give a clear demonstration of how thermal fluctuations destroy positional order in one dimension. The second set of experiments is related to the micromechanics of a colloidal solid.
Large-Scale Environmental Risk Factors for Substance Use

This article discusses evidence on the importance of large-scale environmental risk factors for onset of tobacco, alcohol, and other drug use. It is suggested that smoking onset occurs through a process in which some individuals change from nonsmoking to susceptibility, experimentation, and adoption of regular use. A distinction is made between distal and proximal risk factors, and a model is outlined that encompasses both levels. We consider evidence on large-scale variables including socioeconomic status, ethnicity, and media advertising as factors in onset and discuss how the effects of these large-scale variables are mediated. Recommendations for research and program development are made.
Altered isoelectric focusing of α2-macroglobulin from plasma of patients with diabetes mellitus

Plasma from both type I and type II patients with diabetes mellitus displayed elevated alpha 2-macroglobulin trypsin-binding activity relative to normals. Column isoelectric focusing indicated that the average isoelectric point (pI) of the major form of crude alpha 2-macroglobulin was 6.6, 5.9, and 6.2 for normal, type I and type II subjects, respectively. Focused crude diabetic alpha 2-macroglobulin displayed significantly less recovered trypsin-binding activity relative to controls, particularly above a pI value of 6.0. Following preincubation with trypsin, the crude diabetic alpha 2-macroglobulin displayed a single isoelectric form (pI value of 5.3-5.5) and a substantial increase in recovered activity which were both comparable to normal alpha 2-macroglobulin. Purified alpha 2-macroglobulin from both normal and diabetic subjects displayed similar focusing profiles having a distribution of three forms with a pI value of 5.3-5.4 for the principal form. Trypsin-preincubated samples of purified alpha 2-macroglobulin displayed a single form with a pI value of 5.5-6.0. Preincubation of purified normal or diabetic alpha 2-macroglobulin with a plasma preparation devoid of alpha 2-macroglobulin from normal or diabetic plasma resulted in significantly lowered recovery of activity. All of the above studies suggest that the altered focusing properties observed for crude diabetic alpha 2-macroglobulin are due to components of the plasma rather than to alpha 2-macroglobulin itself.
Computer vision applications

If a creature-either biological or mechanical-is to interact effectively with its environment, it need to know what objects are where. Computer vision provides a primary method for understanding how to make intelligent decisions about an environment, on the basis of sensory inputs
Entwicklung von Liganden zur elektrochemischen Kontrolle der stöchiometrischen und katalytischen Reaktivität von Übergangsmetallen

Die Anderungen des Oxidationszustands redoxaktiver Liganden ist eine leistungsfahige Methode, um die Reaktivitat und auch die Selektivitat gebundener Ubergangsmetalle zu kontrollieren (siehe rechts). So konnte in einigen Fallen durch einfache Abspaltung eines Elektrons aus einem Metall-Ligand-Komplex die Reaktionsgeschwindigkeit um mehrere Grosenordnungen erhoht werden. Mit polymeren redoxaktiven Liganden konnen die Eigenschaften von Ubergangsmetallkomplexen sogar „stufenlos” eingestellt werden.
"Old dogs" and new skills: how clinician characteristics relate to motivational interviewing skills before, during, and after training.

Objective The relationships between the occupational, educational, and verbal-cognitive characteristics of health care professionals and their motivational interviewing (MI) skills before, during, and after training were investigated. Method Fifty-eight community-based addiction clinicians (M = 42.1 years, SD = 10.0; 66% Female) were assessed prior to enrolling in a 2-day MI training workshop and being randomized to one of three post-workshop supervision programs: live supervision via tele-conferencing (TCS), standard tape-based supervision (Tape), or workshop training alone. Audiotaped sessions with clients were rated for MI skillfulness with the Motivational Interviewing Treatment Integrity (MITI) coding system v 2.0 at pre-workshop and 1, 8, and 20 weeks post-workshop. Correlation coefficients and generalized linear models were used to test the relationships between clinician characteristics and MI skill at each assessment point. Results Baseline MI skill levels were the most robust predictors of pre- and post-supervision performances. Clinician characteristics were associated with MI Spirit and reflective listening skill throughout training and moderated the effect of post-workshop supervision method on MI skill. TCS, which provided immediate feedback during practice sessions, was most effective for increasing MI Spirit and reflective listening among clinicians with no graduate degree and stronger vocabulary performances. Tape supervision was more effective for increasing these skills among clinicians with a graduate degree. Further, TCS and Tape were most likely to enhance MI Spirit among clinicians with low average to average verbal and abstract reasoning performances. Conclusions Clinician attributes influence the effectiveness of methods used to promote the acquisition of evidence-based practices among community-based practitioners.
Are Kenyan farmers under-utilizing fertilizer? Implications for input intensification strategies and research

Abstract It is widely perceived that African farmers are under-utilizing inorganic fertilizer. However, very little long-term evidence from farmers’ fields, accounting for variations in agro-ecological conditions, has been assembled to back this claim or determine the conditions under which it is true. Using five waves of nationwide household survey data from Kenya covering 13 years, we estimate the relative and absolute profitability of nitrogen application rates on maize fields and compare these profitability conditions to observed nitrogen use patterns over time. In general, we find that farmers are consistently and steadily increasing towards risk-adjusted economically optimal rates of fertilizer application over time and that, in the most agriculturally productive areas, farmers’ application rates on maize sometimes exceed rates that maximize profitability. Fertilizer use rates may nevertheless be profitably raised in these areas, but doing so will require the adoption of complementary inputs and management practices that raise maize response rates to fertilizer application. This motivates a more holistic approach to input intensification strategies in the region.
Mitral Valve Disease Complicated by Left-to-Right Shunt at Atrial Level

The clinical features and the changes in hemodynamics are described before and after operation in two patients with mitral valve disease associated with left-to-right shunt at atrial level. The first patient had severe rheumatic mitral stenosis, which masked the associated moderate shunt. Since the interatrial communication was small, there was a moderate gradient in pressure between the two atria. Thus, the finding of an elevated left atrial or pulmonary artery wedge pressure in a patient with mitral stenosis and an increase in the saturation of blood at atrial level does not eliminate the possibility of a small interatrial communication. The second patient had severe mitral regurgitation due to a structurally abnormal valve with ruptured chordae tendineae, and had also functional pulmonary and tricuspid valve regurgitation. These lesions also masked the associated large left-to-right shunt. Electrocardiographic and angiocardiographic criteria were used to exclude the possibilities of persistent atrioven...
Specifications of Models for Cross-Classified Counts Comparisons of the Log-Linear Models and Marginal Models Perspectives

Log-linear models are useful for analyzing cross-classifications of counts arising in sociology, but it has been argued that in some cases, an alternative approach for formulating models—one based on simultaneously modeling univariate marginal logits and marginal associations—can lead to models that are more directly relevant for addressing the kinds of questions arising in those cases. In this article, the authors explore some of the similarities and differences between the log-linear models approach to modeling categorical data and a marginal modeling appraoch. It has been noted in past literature that the model of statistical independence is conveniently represented within both approaches to specifying models for cross-classifications of counts. The authors examine further the extent to which the two families of models overlap, as well as some important differences. The authors do not present a complete characterization of the conditions describing the intersection of the two families of models but cov...
Bacterial Adherence: Adhesin-Receptor Interactions Mediating the Attachment of Bacteria to Mucosal Surfaces

Abstract Recent studies have indicated that the attachment of bacteria to mucosal surfaces is the initial event in the pathogenesis of most infectious diseases due to bacteria in animals and humans. An understanding of the mechanisms of attachment and a definition of the adhesive molecules on the surfaces of bacteria (adhesins) as well as those on host cell membranes (receptors) have suggested new approaches to the prevention of serious bacterial infections: (1) application of purified adhesion or receptor materials or their analogues as competitive inhibitors of bacterial adherence; (2) administration of sublethal concentrations of antibiotics that suppress the formation and expression of bacterial adhesins; and (3) development of vaccines against bacterial surface components involved in adhesion to mucosal surfaces. Progress has already been made in the development of antiadhesive vaccines directed against the fimbrial adhesins of several human bacterial pathogens.
Geostrophic Adjustment and the Finite-Difference Shallow-Water Equations

Abstract Numerical simulation of geostrophic adjustment in shallow water is discussed for the case of an unstaggered grid for vorticity, divergence, and mass. The dispersion equation is shown to be very well behaved and superior to that obtained with the Arakawa grids A–E.
Micromagnetics of domain walls at surfaces.

Les cartes d'aimantation a haute resolution spatiale, des surfaces ferromagnetiques sont generees a l'aide de la microscopie electronique a balayage avec analyse de la polarisation (SEMPA). Mesure de la structure des murs de Neel de surface par SEMPA; comparaison aux resultats des simulations micromagnetiques. Les proprietes magnetiques de la surface observees par SEMPA peuvent etre modelisees en utilisant la theorie micromagnetique classique en utilisant seulement les parametres du volume. Mesure des profils d'aimantation des parois de domaines de surface