cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Analysis of hydrogen-induced subcritical intergranular crack growth of iron and nickel

Abstract Hydrogen-induced subcritical crack growth of iron and nickel alloys has been shown to occur in both gaseous and aqueous environments and is a concern in a variety of applications. Identification of the mechanisms by which hydrogen induces crack growth in these materials remains an unsettled issue, with hydrogen-enhanced shear and hydrogen-induced decohesion the primary mechanisms under consideration. The purpose of this paper is to report on subcritical crack growth tests of iron and nickel conducted at catholic potentials under conditions in which the crack growth mode was predominantly intergranular. Subcritical crack growth tests were conducted using compact tension samples with thicknesses of 2, 5, and 10 mm at cathodic potentials ranging from −0.6 to −1.25 V for iron and −0.3 to −1.0 V for nickel in 1 N H2SO4. Crack growth thresholds and crack velocities were determined as a function of sample thickness and test potential. Plastic zone sizes for iron and nickel were determined using electron channeling patterns, microhardness, and transmission electron microscopy. Comparisons between plastic zone size and crack growth behaviour were made. The hydrogen-induced intergranular subcritical crack growth behavior of iron and nickel were found to exhibit several similarities including Kth and stage I crack growth kinetics. Nickel exhibited stage II behavior with a limiting velocity of about 10−4 mm/s; iron did not. This limiting velocity was consistent with the rate limiting process being hydrogen diffusion in nickel.
Educational campaign for proper medication disposal

Abstract Objectives To assess the effect of an educational intervention on pharmacists' attitudes and knowledge about medication disposal. Methods In September 2005, a survey was mailed to 488 registered pharmacists serving as experiential education preceptors to Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences students in 27 states throughout the country. Mailing of this presurvey occurred 2 months before an educational intervention. An identical postsurvey was mailed to the 223 respondents to the presurvey 3 months after the intervention. The main outcome measure was change in pharmacist attitudes and knowledge about medication disposal after educational intervention. Results 158 pharmacists (32% response rate) completed the pre- and postsurveys. Before the intervention, 47% of pharmacists perceived inappropriate medication disposal to be an environmental problem compared with 57% after the intervention ( P = 0.03). Similarly, when asked about medication disposal, 10% correctly indicated that patients could arrange for hazardous waste pick up compared with 20% postintervention ( P P Conclusion A brief educational intervention is effective at changing pharmacists' attitudes and knowledge of inappropriate and environmentally unsafe medication disposal practices. Pharmacists receiving the educational intervention were more likely to report that they would recommend appropriate methods of medication disposal. Further educational efforts are necessary for improving pharmacists' knowledge regarding safe medication disposal practices.
Surface glycosyltransferases on cultured mouse fibroblasts.

Previous work has suggested the presence of galactosyltransferases on the outer surface of the plasma membrane of a malignant and a nonmalignant cell line. This paper summarizes data indicating that three other classes of glycosyltransfeases are similarly located on cell surfaces. In addition to the original two cell lines examined, BALB/c 3T3 and BALB/c 3T12, two other lines of BALB/c origin have been investigated. These are the SV40–transformed 3T3 line and one of the revertants of the virally infected cells that is no longer malignant but retains a viral genome.
First-Person Vision

For understanding the behavior, intent, and environment of a person, the surveillance metaphor is traditional; that is, install cameras and observe the subject, and his/her interaction with other people and the environment. Instead, we argue that the first-person vision (FPV), which senses the environment and the subject's activities from a wearable sensor, is more advantageous with images about the subject's environment as taken from his/her view points, and with readily available information about head motion and gaze through eye tracking. In this paper, we review key research challenges that need to be addressed to develop such FPV systems, and describe our ongoing work to address them using examples from our prototype systems.
Nitric oxide produced by bacteria extends Caenorhabditis elegans lifespan

Abstract Nitric oxide (NO) is an important signaling molecule in multicellular organisms. Most animals produce NO from l -arginine by a family of dedicated enzymes known as NO synthases (NOSes). A rare exception is a round worm Caenorhabditis elegans, which lacks its own NOS. However, in its natural environment C. elegans feeds on Bacilli that possess functional NOS. Here we demonstrate that bacteria-derived NO contributes to C. elegans longevity and stress resistance. The anti-aging mechanism of bacterial NO relies specifically on HSF-1-mediated induction of the animal’s heat shock proteins. Our work demonstrates an example of interspecies signaling by a small molecule and illustrates the life-long value of commensal bacteria to their host.
The Evaluation of Prevention Programs

Throughout the past decade I have been involved in various preventionoriented programs. These projects have ranged from research and evaluation on crime prevention, to projects dealing with preventing illness, to ones dealing with home fire prevention. I have maintained a strong belief in the efficacy of a prevention approach to dealing with social problems, as opposed to more traditional treatment approaches. However, we do not really have good evidence that such prevention programs are effective (Kelly, Snowden, & Munoz, 1977; Heller, Price, & Sher, 1980). We need to create bodies of knowledge that help us understand the workings of and the theories behind prevention programs. But there are many barriers to doing so. This paper is about those barriers, and about ways we might cope with them.
Detection of Mycobacterium avium complex DNA directly in clinical respiratory specimens: opportunities for improved turn-around time and cost savings

Abstract We developed, evaluated, and implemented a Taqman multiplex real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay for the detection of Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC), targeting the 16S-23S rRNA internal transcribed spacer, which we have combined with an existing Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex assay for use directly in clinical respiratory specimens. Evaluation of the performance of this assay for MAC detection included 464 clinical respiratory specimens tested prospectively. This real-time PCR assay was found overall to have a sensitivity of 71.1%, a specificity of 99.5%, a positive predictive value of 98.0%, and a negative predictive value of 90.2% for MAC. The assay provides results prior to the availability of cultured material and identification, most within 24 h of specimen receipt, and may reduce the need to culture MAC-PCR–positive specimens when susceptibility testing is not requested. Additionally, we have found significant cost savings of approximately $21.00 per specimen and staff time reductions of 3.75 h per specimen with implementation of this assay.
Two New Species of Ammobates from the Arabian Peninsula and Egypt (Hymenoptera: Apidae)

Two new species of Old World cleptoparasitic bees are described and figured from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Egypt, both of the genus Ammobates Latreille (Nomadinae: Ammobatini). Ammobates androsthenes Engel, new species (United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia), and A. arsinoe Engel, new species (Egypt), are distinguished from their congeners.
Probing the tri-boson coupling in high-energy vector-boson pair production☆

Abstract A method is presented for probing the effects of the tri-boson gauge coupling in order to test the standard model and to discover new physics. For vector-boson pair-production in electron-positron annihilation, appropriate helicity amplitudes are defined which confine the contributions of the t -channel fermion-exchange process (with known couplings) to a limited set with simple behaviour. The remaining amplitudes depend entirely on the s -channel vector-boson-exchange process with the associated tri-boson coupling. Angular correlation coefficients and asymmetry parameters in this helicity basis are more directly linked to the tri-boson couplings than in the conventional formalism.
Experimental study on the dynamic characteristics of kW-scale molten carbonate fuel cell systems

Abstract The aim of this work is to develop dynamic models for two types of kW-scale molten carbonate fuel cell (MCFC) systems on the basis of experimental data. The dynamic models are represented as a 3×3 transfer function matrix for a multi-input and multi-output (MIMO) system with three inputs and three outputs. The three controlled variables which severely affect the stack performance and lifetime are the temperature difference in the stack and the pressure drop at the anode and the cathode. Three manipulated variables, namely, current load, fuel and oxidant utilization, are selected to keep the three controlled variables within their safety limits for the reliable operation and protection of the system in case of emergency. Each element in the transfer function matrix is in the form of a first-order model using a simple, unit step, response test during operation. The non-zero off-diagonal elements in the transfer function matrix show that some interactions exist among the operating variables, and two zeros show no interaction between fuel and oxidant flow without gas cross-over. The stability of both dynamic models is analyzed using the relative gain array (RGA) method. Large diagonal elements in the RGA matrix show that the pairing between the manipulated and controlled variables is appropriate. Proper pairing is also proven by the singular value analysis (SVA) method with a smaller singular value in each system.
Proteolysis, the ubiquitin-proteasome system, and renal diseases

Protein degradation is a critical process for the growth and function of cells. Proteolysis eliminates abnormal proteins, controls many cellular regulatory processes, and supplies amino acids for cellular remodeling. When substrates of proteolytic pathways are poorly recognized or there is mistiming of proteolysis, profound changes in cell function can occur. Based on these potential problems, it is not surprising that alterations in proteolytic enzymes/cofactors or in the structure of protein substrates that render them more or less susceptible to degradation are responsible for disorders associated with kidney cell malfunctions. Multiple pathways exist for protein degradation. The best-described proteolytic system is the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway, which requires ATP and degrades the bulk of cellular and some membrane proteins. This review will survey examples of renal abnormalities that are associated with defective protein degradation involving the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway. Loss of muscle mass associated with chronic renal failure, von Hippel-Lindau disease, Liddle syndrome, and ischemic acute renal failure will be discussed. These examples are indicative of the diverse roles of the ubiquitin-proteasome system in renal-associated pathological conditions.
Chlordiazepoxide, but not bretazenil, produces acute dependence, as evidenced by disruptions in schedule-controlled behavior

Abstract The purpose of the present study was to determine whether the full benzodiazepine (BDZ) agonist chlordiazepoxide (CDAP) and the partial BDZ agonist bretazenil would produce acute dependence in rats, as evidenced by disruptions in fixed-interval responding during precipitated abstinence withdrawal. Doses of CDAP and bretazenil administered acutely were 10, 75, 100 and mg/kg; flumazenil (1–56 mg/kg) was administered 1, 2, 4, or 18 h later. Withdrawal, defined as a significant decrease in fixed-interval responding, was only seen when a high dose of flumazenil was administered 18 h after 100 mg/kg of CDAP. These results support those of others (5) who found that high (75–450 mg/kg) doses of CDAP were required to produce acute physical dependence. That bretazenil did not produce acute physical dependence supports the findings of other (20,23) who report that chronic administration of bretazenil does not result in physical dependence.
Typical halo nevi in childhood: Is a biopsy necessary? ☆

We sent questionnaires to pediatric dermatologists inquiring whether anyone had seen a child with halo nevi that developed into melanoma. None of the respondents reported having seen such a development. We conclude that typical halo nevi in children are usually benign and a skin biopsy is probably not necessary.
Arsenic speciation and quality of groundwater in a lead-zinc mine, Idaho

Abstract The variations of As(V)/As(III) ratio, with respect to metal contents and pH in groundwater of a major lead-zinc mine in the Coeur d'Alene Mining District, Idaho were studied. A wide range of arsenic concentrations and As(V)/As(III) ratios were observed in the groundwaters collected from this mine. Samples with high As(V)/As(III) ratios were generally acidic (pH 3, and its chemical behavior appears to be controlled by iron hydroxide precipitate. In comparison with Eh measurement by a platinum electrode, the As(V)/As(III) ratio seems to be a more sensitive indicator for evaluating redox status of a groundwater system. Arsenic species in surface waters collected from the Coeur d'Alene River were also measured for comparison.
EFFICIENT COMPUTATION OF MULTIPLIERLESS FILTERS IN EMBEDDED SYSTEMS EMPLOYING AN OPTIMAL APPROXIMATION METHOD

An integerization technique for creating fixed integer transforms with computationally optimal representations is presented, and the improved performance in embedded systems by employing these integerized implementations is explored. This technique uses an optimal approximation algorithm that finds the lowest-length fractional representation of the rational numbers. The integer transform approximation allows multiplication to be replaced by shift-and-add operations in hardware systems; where multiplication can take several cycles, shifts and adds take one or fewer cycles each. The multiplierless implementation furthermore benefits from employing the proposed method to represent the floating-point coefficients in very high precision requirement areas, like decimation filter design. This paper is strongly oriented around the design of coefficients with hardware constraints in mind, such as minimizing the number of required adds/subtracts and shifts required for some engineering algorithms.
Of Gravity and Geese

Abstract This essay reviews the connections between an early work of science fiction—Francis Godwin’s The Man in the Moone (1638) and recent video/performance artworks by the German artist Agnes Meyer-Brandis. The author finds that a speculative work of fiction along with the techno-sublimity of the Apollo moon project served as a potent source of inspiration, the realizations of which have taken diverse and equally imaginative turns.
Epigenetic control of hypoxia inducible factor-1α-dependent expression of placental growth factor in hypoxic conditions

Hypoxia plays a crucial role in the angiogenic switch, modulating a large set of genes mainly through the activation of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) transcriptional complex. Endothelial cells play a central role in new vessels formation and express placental growth factor (PlGF), a member of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family, mainly involved in pathological angiogenesis. Despite several observations suggest a hypoxia-mediated positive modulation of PlGF, the molecular mechanism governing this regulation has not been fully elucidated. We decided to investigate if epigenetic modifications are involved in hypoxia-induced PlGF expression. We report that PlGF expression was induced in cultured human and mouse endothelial cells exposed to hypoxia (1% O 2), although DNA methylation at the Plgf CpG-island remains unchanged. Remarkably, robust hyperacetylation of histones H3 and H4 was observed in the second intron of Plgf, where hypoxia responsive elements (HREs), never described before, are located. HIF-1α, but not HIF-2α, binds to identified HREs. Noteworthy, only HIF-1α silencing fully inhibited PlGF upregulation. These results formally demonstrate a direct involvement of HIF-1α in the upregulation of PlGF expression in hypoxia through chromatin remodeling of HREs sites. Therefore, PlGF may be considered one of the putative targets of anti-HIF therapeutic applications.
Dynamic view on affordability of fixed-dose combination antihypertensive drug therapy.

BACKGROUND: The use of fixed-dose combinations (FDCs) has been increasing since the Seventh Report of the Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Pressure recommended using ≥2 drugs as the first-line drug therapy for patients with stage 2 hypertension. FDCs simplify the drug therapy regimen and reportedly lower the drug therapy cost compared with the free combination (FC) of 2 single-agent drugs. This study hypothesized that the affordability of FDCs over FCs would change over time depending on the availability of generic single-agent drugs. METHODS: This study used the 2009 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey. Antihypertensive drugs were identified based on the Food and Drug Administration national drug directory. Based on the 2 databases, regression models were run to predict average monthly drug cost as well as out-of-pocket cost for each prescription along with their 95% confidence intervals (CIs). RESULTS: Overall, FDCs (n = 26) had average monthly drug costs similar to respective FCs when FCs were not generically available. However, when FCs were generically available, FDCs (n = 11) had average drugs costs much higher than their respective FCs. For example, Lotrel as an FDC had an average monthly drug cost of $115.97 (95% CI = $96.59-$135.36), whereas its counterpart FC had an average monthly drug cost of $21.00 (95% CI = $18.23-$23.79). CONCLUSIONS: The cost advantage of FDCs over FCs was reversed when FCs were generically available. The finding of this study informs patients, health-care providers, and drug plans of the importance of making dynamic decisions on preferred drug therapy options depending on the availability of generic drugs.
Method for recording foot pad impedance in freely moving mice.

Abstract The foot pad impedance of a freely moving mouse was measured in a shock runway. Foot pad impedance measurement consisted of a constant current circuit for measuring impedance when the current was subthreshold and a constant voltage circuit for measuring impedance when the current was at an aversive level. Both of these circuits are diagrammed and discussed. Foot pad impedance records obtained by this method are shown.
Details of ssDNA annealing revealed by an HSV-1 ICP8–ssDNA binary complex

Infected cell protein 8 (ICP8) from herpes simplex virus 1 was first identified as a single-strand (ss) DNA-binding protein. It is essential for, and abundant during, viral replication. Studies in vitro have shown that ICP8 stimulates model replication reactions, catalyzes annealing of complementary ssDNAs and, in combination with UL12 exonuclease, will catalyze ssDNA annealing homologous recombination. DNA annealing and strand transfer occurs within large oligomeric filaments of ssDNA-bound ICP8. We present the first 3D reconstruction of a novel ICP8-ssDNA complex, which seems to be the basic unit of the DNA annealing machine. The reconstructed volume consists of two nonameric rings containing ssDNA stacked on top of each other, corresponding to a molecular weight of 2.3 MDa. Fitting of the ICP8 crystal structure suggests a mechanism for the annealing reaction catalyzed by ICP8, which is most likely a general mechanism for protein-driven DNA annealing.
Integrated voice recognition and picture archiving and communication system: Development and early experience

Voice recognition (VR) and picture archiving and communication system (PACS) both have advantages and disadvantages in radiologic practice. We describe a fully integrated VR/PACS system running on a single platform. Integration optimizes the positive features of both systems and creates a synergy that is not otherwise realized. The planning and development of the system is described, as well as a number of challenges that were addressed. Radiologists have viewed the process changes very positively during initial use.
The effect of implicit and explicit motivation on recall among old and young adults

Seventy-six elderly subjects aged sixty-five to eighty-seven and seventy-seven young adults aged twenty-five to forty were compared on implicit and explicit motive levels and on recall of introductions and working memory. Significantly fewer of the elderly than the young participants scored high in the implicit motives, n Affiliation and n Power, confirming results from U.S. national surveys. The surveys also demonstrated a significant decline with age in high levels of n Achievement, a decline not found here. The elderly participants showed major recall deficits on both tasks, but all three of the implicit motives studied were shown to enhance recall for the elderly, but not for the young adults. Eight elderly women scoring high on at least two of the three motives showed no recall deficits compared to the young women on two memory tasks. In old age implicit motive deficits contribute to poor memory but explicit commitments to have a good memory had no effect on recall.
Recognition and treatment of ethanol abuse in trauma patients

Objective: To evaluate physicians' recognition of possible ethanol-related complications in trauma patients, and to compare benzodiazepine requirements in patients with positive and negative blood-ethanol concentrations. Design: Retrospective investigation. Setting: University medical center (level I trauma center). Patients: One hundred thirty-one trauma patients more than 18 years of age who were admitted for at least 24 hours. Outcome Measures: (1) Physicians' recognition of ethanol (EtOH) as a potential factor complicating patient recovery in trauma patients admitted with positive blood-EtOH concentrations. (2) The amount of benzodiazepines administered to trauma patients with positive EtOH-blood concentrations compared to trauma patients with no detectable EtOH in their blood. Results: The presence of EtOH in the blood or the potential for EtOH withdrawal was mentioned in the progress notes of approximately one fourth of the patients with positive blood-EtOH concentrations. Thiamine was administered in 8.2% of patients with EtOH-related injuries. Benzodiazepine requirements were significantly higher in patients with positive versus negative blood-EtOH concentrations. Conclusions: Prompt recognition and charting of suspected ethanol abuse is recommended, in conjunction with prompt administration of thiamine. It should be anticipated that patients with positive blood-ethanol concentrations will require higher doses of benzodiazepines compared to trauma patients without ethanol-related injuries.
Investment and Saving: A Genetic Analysis

I. Introduction, 567. — II. The consumption use of savings, 569. — The commercial use, 573. — The production use, 575. — III. The yield schedules: scarcity-reducing investments, 578; — efficiency-increasing investments, 583. — Currency difficulties, 586. — IV. The combined schedule, 590. — Sale of rent bearers, 592. — Equalization of rates, 593. — "Productivity" 594. — V. The influence of interest on saving, 596. — Saving and other factors, 601. — VI. Conclusion, 603.
High-Resolution Electron Microscopy of Twist and General Grain Boundaries

High-resolution imaging of atomic structures of twist and general grain boundaries (GBs) is reported in samples prepared by a thin-film technique in which [011] and [001] oriented Au grains are epitaxially grown side by side, allowing the investigation of a wide range of GB geometries. GBs with tilt as well as twist components typically have structural modulations along the interface and often show a surprising amount of coherence between lattice planes crossing the interface. The [110], 90\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{} symmetric twist GB does not remain planar, but reconstructs into atomic-scale microfacets.
Fatal neonatal nemaline myopathy with multiple congenital anomalies

The clinical course and autopsy findings in a patient with fatal neonatal nemaline myopathy aredescribed. A hypotonic infant required mechanical ventilatory support immediately following delivery and developed progressive congestive heart failure. He had mild facial dysmorphism, a high-arched palate, clinodactyly, short first metacarpals, abnormal dermatoglyphics, simian creases, and bilateral talipes varus. Light and electron microscopic study of a muscle biopsy was diagnostic of nemaline myopathy. Autopsy revealed a papillary muscle anomaly, myocardial scarring, and hepatic fibrosis. The severe clinical impairment in this infant and the unusual associated anomalies are compared with other examples of nemaline myopathy. Nemaline myopathy is a cause of respiratory insufficiency in the neonatal period.
Occlusal interferences and mastication: An electromyographic study

T I n spite of the many recent advances toward a better understanding of the neurologic aspects of mastication, the function of tooth contacts as a part of the neuromuscular mechanisms of chewing is still a rather controversial question. Some investigators attribute no functional importance to tooth contacts during chewing.’ However, others see a justification for the equilibration of occlusal disharmonies in the fact that tooth contacts occur during mastication.” The neurophysiologic basis by which occlusal disharmonies might act in the creation of occlusal trauma is connected with the possible role of tooth contacts and tooth sliding during functional or dysfunctional movements. Karolyi” recognized early the important role of bruxism in the etiology of periodontal disease and also the interrelationship between occlusal disharmonies and bruxism itself. Thielemann, 4 in discussing the etiology of periodontal disease, clearly distinguishes between chewing and “empty” grinding movernents. Drum” first stressed, in the European literature, the difference between the self-protecting functional movements during mastication and the auto-destructive ‘~I)arafurlctionst“ like bruxism, which are performed on a subconscious level. This view was also cxpressed earlier in the American literature by Shanahan’ and Jankelson.’ Electromyclgraphic (EMG) studies by Ramfjord, fi in an evaluation of the effect of occlusal interferences on bruxism and the EMG activity of the chewing muscles, showed that the masticatory movements were unreliable as an indicator of occlusal interferences for patients who manifested marked EMG changes during “empty” man-
4f bands in Ce heavy fermions and mixed valent compounds at T ⪢ TK

Abstract We report evidence of 4f band character in Ce 4f states at T ⪢ T K using high-resolution angle-resolved resonant photoemission. The Ce intermetallic compound CePt 2+ x was grown and studied in situ by the method of MBE and was characterized by LEED, XPS and XAS. These new findings suggest a need for a re-examination of 4f photoemission in Ce compounds.
The Commodification of Sport

This paper examines a series of changes experienced within sport as it undergoes a process of commodification. It is argued that this process constitutes a degradation of athletic activity. The interpretations of such changes are examined in light of the debate over mass culture and the popular arts. This controversy has centered on whether the nature of modern sport has become debauched as it is subsumed to the logic of the marketplace. It is suggested that puerility has come to dominate sport as modern culture becomes standardised and administered as a commodity. Sport is thus viewed in terms of the tensions between its emancipatory potential and its function as a commodity for social consumption.
Empirical Relationships for Frequency Content Parameters of Earthquake Ground Motions

Abstract The frequency content of an earthquake ground motion is important because it affects the dynamic response of earth and structural systems. Four scalar parameters that characterize the frequency content of strong ground motions are (1) the mean period (Tm), (2) the average spectral period (Tavg), (3) the smoothed spectral predominant period (To), and (4) the predominant spectral period (Tp). Tm and Tavg distinguish the low frequency content of ground motions, while To is affected most by the high frequency content. Tp does not adequately describe the frequency content of a strong ground motion and is not recommended. Empirical relationships are developed that predict three parameters (Tm, Tavg, and To) as a function of earthquake magnitude, site-to-source distance, site conditions, and rupture directivity. The relationships are developed from a large strong-motion database that includes recorded motions from the recent earthquakes in Turkey and Taiwan. The new relationships update those previously...
Differentiation of Isolates of Glomerella cingulata and Colletotrichum spp. Associated with Glomerella Leaf Spot and Bitter Rot of Apples Using Growth Rate, Response to Temperature, and Benomyl Sensitivity

Cultural characteristics were investigated as a way to distinguish isolates of Glomerella cingulata and Colletotrichum spp. associated with Glomerella leaf spot and bitter rot of apples from those that cause only bitter rot. The growth rate, response to temperature, and benomyl sensitivity of 27 isolates of Glomerella cingulata, 12 isolates of Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, and 7 isolates of C. acutatum, collected from apple orchards located in the U.S. and Brazil and previously characterized based on morphology, vegetative compatibility, and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) haplotypes, were determined. These isolates represent the genetic and molecular diversity within isolates of C. gloeosporioides, C. acutatum, and G. cingulata from apples found in a previous study. Slower growth, lower optimum growth temperature, and less sensitivity to benomyl distinguished isolates of C. acutatum from isolates of G. cingulata and C. gloeosporioides. However, growth rate and benomyl sensitivity were not useful for distinguishing between G. cingulata and C. gloeosporioides or differentiating isolates of G. cingulata that cause leaf spot and bitter rot from those that only cause bitter rot.
Numerical simulation of the air flow patterns in an optical fiber drawing furnace

This paper presents results of a numerical simulation of the air flow in an optical fiber drawing furnace for a variety of processing conditions of industrial interest. The numerical model was based on PHOENICS, a fluid-flow simulation computer program, and was verified experimentally by flow visualization and thermal anemometry. Flow patterns in the area between the preform and the furnace walls were obtained for various furnace configurations. Results show that the air flow changes significantly by changing the geometry of the entrance and exit of the furnace.© (1994) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Thermal Dependence of Quantum Dot Solar Cells

ABSTRACT Various temperature dependent optoelectronic properties were measured for GaAs-based p-type / intrinsic / n-type ( pin ) solar cell devices containing 5-layers of InAs quantum dots (QDs) grown with strain-compensation layers. Curve fitting of the dark diode characteristics allowed for the temperature dependence of the saturation current and the ideality parameter to be determined. The resulting parameter values indicate high material quality. Air mass zero illuminated current density vs. voltage measurements were used to determine the temperature coefficients of the open circuit voltage, short circuit current, maximum power, and fill factor. emission wavelength and the sub-GaAs bandgap spectral responsivity was observed. INTRODUCTION Many recent experimental investigations have demonstrated the ability to enhance the spectral responsivity of a GaAs solar cell by incorporating either InAs QDs [1-4] or GaSb QD [5]. In devices which utilized the stranski-krastanow QD growth mode, an improved long-wavelength responsivity has been achieved, although a concomitant reduction in short circuit current is also observed. The reduction in short circuit current has been attributed to strain-induced emitter degradation [4]. Electron trapping by the defects at the QD / GaAs interface, which increases the recombination current, may also contribute to the decreased performance [6]. As additional InAs QDs layers are grown using the Stranski-Kranstanow growth mode, residual compressive strain accumulates in the structure. To alleviate this strain in QD laser diodes [7, 8] and multiple-quantum well solar cells [9], a layer of material under tensile strain is grown to offset the compressive strain leading to a strain-neutral stack. Promising results have recently been demonstrated in GaAs-based InAs QD solar cells using this strain compensation technique, although the thickness of the strain compensation layers was still under investigation [10]. In this paper, the thermal behavior of a strain-compensated QD solar cell with a room temperature air mass zero efficiency in excess of 13% is reported. The thermal behavior of QD solar cells is an important characteristic that must be evaluated to determine the suitability of these devices for space and terrestrial concentrator applications where high temperatures may be encountered. In space, the operating temperature can vary drastically as the solar cells pass into and out of solar eclipse. Likewise, solar cells used in terrestrial concentrator applications are expected to be operated at 250 suns or higher and typically rely solely on passive cooling systems [11]. Measuring the temperature dependent optoelectronic and photovoltaic behavior of QD solar cells, therefore, will help to determine their suitability for these applications and may offer additional insight into the fundamental role of the QDs in these devices.
A comparison of the microphysical and optical properties of particles in an aircraft contrail and mountain wave cloud

The freezing of deliquesced aerosols is the most likely formation mechanism of ice particles in wave clouds. A similar microphysical process has been postulated for the formation of aircraft contrails. Aerosol and cloud particle measurements have been made in contrail and wave clouds that formed under similar environmental conditions. Microphysical and optical properties are compared for these two types of clouds using a number of unique capabilities of the MASP particle probe, i.e., direct detection of forward and backscattered light, and the measurement of particle spacing to determine small scale cloud structures relevant to microphysical processes. The data indicate similarities in optical properties, but significant differences in the number concentrations, liquid water contents and the spatial organization of the cloud particles in the two types of clouds.
FDA Drug Approval Summary: Panitumumab (Vectibix™)

On September 27, 2006, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration granted approval to panitumumab (Vectibix, Amgen, Inc., Thousand Oaks, CA) for the treatment of patients with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-expressing, metastatic colorectal carcinoma with disease progression on or following fluoropyrimidine-, oxaliplatin-, and irinotecan-containing chemotherapy regimens. Panitumumab approval is based on the results of a single, open-label, randomized, multinational study that enrolled 463 patients with EGFR-expressing (at least 1+ membrane staining in > or =1% of tumor cells) metastatic colorectal cancer. Patients were randomized to either best supportive care (BSC) alone or BSC plus panitumumab, 6 mg/kg i.v., every other week. The primary study endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS), determined by an independent review committee that was blinded as to treatment assignment. BSC patients who progressed were eligible to receive panitumumab. The study patients' median age was 62 years, with 40% aged > or =65; 63% were male, 99% were white, 86% had a baseline Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status score of 0 or 1, and 67% had colon cancer. The median time from diagnosis of metastases was approximately 19 months and the median number of prior therapies was 2.4. The PFS duration was significantly longer among patients randomized to receive panitumumab in addition to BSC (n = 231) compared with BSC alone (n = 232). The median and mean PFS times were 56 and 96.4 days, respectively, for patients receiving panitumumab and 51 and 59.7 days, respectively, for patients receiving BSC alone. Nineteen partial responses (8%, 95% confidence interval [CI], 5.3%-12.5%) were observed in panitumumab treated patients. The median duration of response was 17 weeks (95% CI, 16-25 weeks). Approximately 75% of patients in the BSC alone arm crossed over to receive panitumumab after disease progression. There was no difference in overall survival between the two study arms. The most common adverse events were skin rash, hypomagnesemia, paronychia, fatigue, abdominal pain, nausea, and diarrhea. The most serious adverse events were pulmonary fibrosis, severe dermatologic toxicity complicated by infectious sequelae and septic death, infusion reactions, abdominal pain, hypomagnesemia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation.
Forecasters and Probability Forecasts: the Responses to a Questionnaire

Abstract This paper summarizes the responses of the forecasters of the Travelers Weather Service to a questionnaire concerning probability forecasting. The questionnaire was designed to elicit information from the forecasters relative to the process of precipitation probability forecasting (e.g., the information sources examined, their relative importance and order of examination), the relationship between judgments and forecasts, the effect of the definition of precipitation on the forecasts, the meaning of the forecasts, the effects of feedback and experience on the forecasts, and related matters. The responses to the questionnaire and subsequent discussions with Travelers Weather Service and National Weather Service forecasters suggest the presence of a number of “problems” related to probability forecasting. Several of these “problems” are considered in some detail in a separate paper (Murphy and Winkler, 1971).
Commentary on “The Economics of Specialty Hospitals”

There are two major aims of this commentary on “The Economics of Specialty Hospitals” by Schneider and colleagues (this issue). The first aim is to identify and discuss the policy, market, and organizational context in which physician-owned specialty hospitals have emerged and now exist in the United States. This context is critical for understanding aspects of the economic model and the potential advantages and disadvantages of physician-owned specialty (or limited-service) hospitals relative to general (or full-service) hospitals now and over time. The second aim is to discuss the six specific elements of the model (i.e., consumer demand, procedural operating margins, clinical efficiencies, procedural economies of scale, economies or diseconomies of scope, and competencies and learning). Specifically, to raise some key questions and to point to other ideas and empirical evidence that suggest that in practice, physician-owned specialty hospitals may not have all the advantages that the economic theory de...
Analogs of the autoinducer of bioluminescence inVibrio fischer

The enzymes for luminescence inVibrio fischeri are induced only when a sufficient concentration of a metabolic product (autoinducer) specifically produced by this species accumulates. It has previously been shown that the autoinducer is 3-oxohexanoyl homoserine lactone and that it enters the cells by simple diffusion. To further study the mechanism of induction, we have synthesized several analogs of the autoinducer. The analogs were tested withV. fischeri for their inducing activity and for their ability to inhibit the action of the natural autoinducer. The compounds were found to display various combinations of inducing and inhibiting abilities. None of the compounds tested appeared to have any effect on cells ofV. harveyi strain MAV orPhotobacterium leiognathi strain 721, but several of the compounds decreased light output byP. phosphoreum strain 8265. These studies show that 1) the site of action of the autoinducer is not highly sterically constrained 2) the autoinducers of other species of luminous bacteria are likely to be quite different from that ofV. fischeri and 3) a simple mode in which one autoinducer molecule binds to a single receptor protein site and thus initiates luciferase synthesis is inadequate. The analogs should prove useful in the study of the binding site and mode of action of the autoinducer.
Ultrasound examination of the postpartum uterus: what is normal?

Objective: To establish normal ultrasonographic findings for the postpartum uterus after vaginal delivery, and to characterize associated bleeding patterns.Methods: Postpartum women were scanned by transabdominal ultrasound within 48 h after normal vaginal delivery. Uterine length, uterine width, endometrial stripe thickness and endometrial contents were evaluated by a single sonographer. Patients maintained a daily symptom diary for 6 weeks and were interviewed by telephone at 2 weeks. Statistical analysis was performed using χ2, Fisher's exact test, Student's t test and Pearson correlation.Results: Mean endometrial stripe thickness was 1.1±0.6 cm, mean uterine length was 16.1±1.7 cm and mean uterine width was 8.7±1.0 cm. Postpartum bleeding requiring more than four protective pads per day for ≥10 days was associated with a thicker endometrial stripe (1.5±0.7 cm vs. 0.9±0.4 cm, p=0.006). However, no patients experienced postpartum bleeding complications requiring intervention. Of the 40 women evaluated, ...
Scaling behavior of the specific heat of Gd near Tc

Abstract The specific heat of Gd near Tc is shown to scale with magnetic field in accordance with scaling law predictions. A surprisingly close agreement is found between the scaled data and the predictions of the spin- 1 2 Heisenberg model.
Physician-patient interaction in reproductive counseling

Objective : To review the scientific and clinical bases for effective patient counseling in contraceptive care. Data Sources : All articles and chapters in the Annotated Bibliography of Doctor Patient Communication of the Task Force on Doctor and Patient of the American Academy on Physician and Patient were searched and included. This is an expert-derived data base based on MEDLINE review from 1969 to 1994 and including expert-selected additions from PsychLit and a variety of other social science data bases, books, and reviews. Methods of Study Selection : Expert consensus was used from the Committee on Bibliography of the American Academy on Physician and Patient. Tabulation, Integration, and Results : The doctor-patient interaction is the main determinant of the accuracy and completeness of patient data, diagnostic accuracy, efficiency in the encounter, compliance, patient understanding of problems, and patient and physician satisfaction. Yet this critical skill is inadequately taught and practiced, with serious consequences for patient care and physican job satisfaction. Use of the 14 structural elements (preparing the environment, preparing oneself, observation, greeting, introduction, detecting and overcoming barriers to communication, surveying problems, negotiating a priority problem, developing a narrative thread, establishing the life context of the patient, establishing a safety net, presenting findings and options, negotiating plans, and closing) and three functions (gathering information, developing a therapeutic relationship, and patient education) and their associated behaviors improves encounter results significantly. Other helpful activities are patient activation, facilitating partnership, review of findings and plans, eliciting and responding to patients' attitudes and emotions about contraception and fertility, and use of empathy and positive regard. Conclusions : The use of scientifically derived, empirically validated interview skills substantially improves outcomes in contraceptive and other patient education and counseling. Use of appropriate structure and functions of the encounter, patient participation and partnership, review of patient understanding and reactions, and relating to the patients' attitudes and emotions about the subject each improve the outcomes of contraceptive care.
Interval Therapy of Migraine: Long‐term Results

SYNOPSIS Recrudescence of migraine headaches some time after the initiation of drug prophylaxis and the responsiveness of many patients to one or more vasoactive agents but not others are factors that have not hitherto been incorporated into a systematic appraisal of the putative long-term benefits of migraine therapy. In this study, followup information was obtained upon 146 treated migraineurs who were initially evaluated within the last 9 years and were drawn randomly from coded files; the major component of their treatment was the sequential use of the following drugs: propranolol, amitriptyline, ergonovine, methysergide, ergotamine, phenelzine, papaverine and cyproheptadine. Data was also collected upon 85 age-matched patients who chose a variety of treatment modes other than drugs in an attempt to lessen headache problems that were comparable to the drug-treated group. The mean followup period for both groups was 35 months. Of the drug-treated patients, 55% evidenced substantial improvement of at least one year‘s duration compared to 26% of the control group (p<.01); improvement of at least 2 years’ duration was apparent among 31% of the drug-treated patients whereas 12% of the controls did as well (p<.01). Prophylactic migraine therapy proffers substantial long-term benefits to some patients.
Airblast atomization of viscous liquids

Abstract Airblast atomization of viscous liquids is carried out using a twin-fluid jet atomizer. As the atomizing air swirls downstream along the liquid jet, waves form on the surface of the liquid jet. Thus, the liquid jet sheds ligaments which subsequently collapse into small drops. The drop sizes and size distribution are measured using the laser diffraction technique. The atomized drop sizes, represented by either the mass median diameter (MMD) or the volume mean diameter (VMD), could be described in terms of three non-dimensional groups, namely liquid-to-air mass ratio , Weber number (We), and Ohnesorge number (Z) in the simple form: where j = 1 and 2. The exponents and coefficients (xi, i = 1–4) are determined by the best least square fit of the equation to the experimental results using the iterative generalized inverse method. Coefficients of correlation of 0.95 and 0.94 have been obtained for Newtonian and pseudoplastic liquids, respectively. The exponents of the We−1- and Z-dependences of the drop sizes fall between the values 2 3 and 1 3 , predicted by the acceleration and the capillary wave mechanisms. This simple equation, based on the wave mechanism, is in good agreement with the empirical models reported in the literature for airblast atomization of low-viscosity liquids. In addition, it was found that the atomized drop sizes of Newtonian liquids substantially decrease as the atomizing air pressure exceeds a threshold value. For example, at a liquid-to-air mass ratio of 1.3, the MMD of the atomized glycerol drops decreases from 93 to 64 μm as the atomizing air pressure increases from 170 to 207 kPa. This pressure effect may be attributed to the sudden expansion at the atomizer tip where the atomizing air flows at the maximum achievable velocity (sonic velocity). No such pressure effect is seen in airblast atomization of pseudoplastic liquids which gives rise to significantly larger drops than Newtonian liquids atomized under similar conditions.