cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Closure Conditions for Two-Fluid Flow in Porous Media

Modeling of multiphase flow in porous media requires that the physics of the phases present be well described. Additionally, the behavior of interfaces between those phases and of the common lines where the interfaces come together must be accounted for. One factor complicating this description is the fact that geometric variables such as the volume fractions, interfacial areas per volume, and common line length per volume enter the conservation equations formulated at the macroscale or core scale. These geometric densities, although important physical quantities, are responsible for a deficit in the number of dynamic equations needed to model the system. Thus, to obtain closure of the multiphase flow equations, one must supplement the conservation equations with additional evolutionary equations that account for the interactions among these geometric variables. Here, the second law of thermodynamics, the constraint that the energy of the system must be at a minimum at equilibrium, is used to motivate and generate linearized evolutionary equations for these geometric variables and interactions. The constitutive forms, along with the analysis of the mass, momentum, and energy conservation equations, provide a necessary complete set of equations for multiphase flow modeling in the subsurface.
On the development of regionalization relationships for lumped watershed models: The impact of ignoring sub-basin scale variability

Summary Lumped precipitation–runoff models represent the watershed as a single, homogeneous unit, thereby ignoring spatial variability in forcing inputs and physical properties. In spite of this, spatially distributed models, which account for the variability of such factors, generally do not provide better simulations of catchment outlet runoff. This is at least in part because lumped models are easier to calibrate. However, it is often unclear whether the optimal (calibrated) parameters of a lumped model take on values that are consistent with underlying physical properties. In this study we explore the hypothesis that optimized lumped parameters are “contaminated” by noise due to the lumped representation of the watershed. We conduct a series of virtual experiments in which a daily time-step conceptual precipitation–runoff model is applied, with both lumped and distributed spatial discretizations, to 49 Austrian mesoscale basins. The experiments examine the impacts of different degrees of spatial variability in the inputs and physical properties, as well as varying complexity of the model structure. The usage of lumped models results in optimal parameters that include a considerable degree of noise, because the parameters implicitly compensate for the deficiencies in the spatial discretization. Most of the noise is attributable to neglecting the spatial variability in the physical properties, while the spatial variability of the inputs is of less importance. Further, the noise increases with system complexity, where parameter interactions significantly magnify the noise. This noise in the lumped parameters diminishes the correlation with catchment properties, even when a theoretically strong relationship exists, thereby complicating parameter regionalization as used, for example, for prediction in ungauged basins.
Designs for mechanical circulatory support device studies.

Abstract Background There is increased interest in mechanical circulatory support devices (MCSDs), such as implantable left ventricular assist devices (LVADs), as “destination” therapy for patients with advanced heart failure. Because patient availability to evaluate these devices is limited and randomized trials have been slow in enrolling patients, a workshop was convened to consider designs for MCSD development including alternatives to randomized trials. Methods and Results A workshop was jointly planned by the Heart Failure Society of America and the US Food and Drug Administration and was convened in March 2006. One of the panels was asked to review different designs for evaluating new MCSDs. Randomized trials have many advantages over studies with no controls or with nonrandomized concurrent or historical controls. These advantages include the elimination of bias in the assignment of treatments and the balancing, on average, of known and unknown baseline covariates that influence response. These advantages of randomization are particularly important for studies in which the treatments may not differ from one another by a large amount (eg, a head-to-head study of an approved LVAD with a new LVAD). However, researchers have found it difficult to recruit patients to randomized studies because the number of clinical sites that can carry out the studies is not large. Also, there is a reluctance to randomize patients when the control device is considered technologically inferior. Thus ways of improving the design of randomized trials were discussed, and the advantages and disadvantages of alternative designs were considered. Conclusions The panel concluded that designs should include a randomized component. Randomized designs might be improved by allowing the control device to be chosen before randomization, by first conducting smaller vanguard studies, and by allowing crossovers in trials with optimal medical management controls. With use of data from completed trials, other databases, and registries, alternative designs that include both a randomized component (eg, 2:1 allocation for new device versus control) and a nonrandomized component (eg, concurrent nonrandomized control, historical control, or a comprehensive cohort design) should be evaluated. This will require partnerships among academic, government, and industry scientists.
Approximate criterion for capsize based on deterministic dynamics

An approach to studying the critical forcing parameters of an oscillator with a softening spring characteristic is developed. The harmonic response of the system is limited within a region of the phase plane, the boundary of which corresponds to a level of constant total energy for the underlying conservative system. This approach may be a useful conceptual aid in the understanding of the difficult problem of roll motion leading to capsize of a floating vessel.
An embedded multi-parameter corrosion sensor for reinforced concrete structures

A prototype of an embedded corrosion sensor has been developed for assessing the corrosion status of reinforcing steel bar (rebar) in concrete. The integrated sensor unit includes an Ag/AgCl probe, a metallic oxide probe, a multi-electrode array sensor (MAS), and a four-pin (Wenner) array stainless steel electrode for chloride content, pH, microcell corrosion current, and localized concrete resistivity measurements, respectively. A stable solid probe was used as the reference probe in this unit to express the potentiometric measurement of chloride content and pH probes. In this study, the chloride and pH probes were calibrated in simulated pore solutions (SPSs) regarding temperature and pH fluctuations. The corrosion current results of the MAS probe in SPSs matched very well with those obtained by the linear polarization resistance technique, which was conducted on companion carbon steel specimens. A sensor prototype was embedded into a paste cylinder for long-term performance evaluation. Up-to-date results show that the sensor probes exhibit excellent sensitivity and reliability through 1 year of monitoring. Continuous monitoring in the laboratory for extended periods is underway.
The effects of two diphosphonates on bone metabolism in the rat

Abstract The effects of low doses of the diphosphonates, ethane-1-hydroxy-1,1-diphosphonate (EHDP) and dichloromethylene diphosphonate (CI 3 MDP), were studied in weanling rats for 14 and 60 day periods. Cl 2 MDP was given in a dose of 0.1, 0.5 and 2.5 mg P/kg per day, and EHDP 1.0 mg P/kg per day for the 14-day experiments; the dose of each was 0.5 mg P/kg per day in the 60-day experiment. Parameters measured included serum calcium, phosphorus, immunoreactive parathyroid hormone (iPTH); bone formation, mineralization, resorption, and the number of osteoclast cell units in the diaphyseal sampling site; and selected enzymes in homogenates of metaphyseal bone. With increasing doses of/or prolonged treatment with diphosphonates, changes were found in serum calcium, phosphorus and (in one group) iPTH. The most important finding in this study was, however, a decrease in the linear rate of bone resorption as a function of the log dose of CI 2 MDP. The decrease in the linear rate was accompanied by two additional changes, both of which may have been compensatory: an increase in the number of osteoclast cell units and a decrease in endosteal bone formation.
A programmable NMOS DRAM controller for microcomputer systems with dual-port memory and error checking and correction

An NMOS DRAM controller for use in microcomputer systems based on the iAPX-86 and iAPX-286 microprocessor families or on the Multibus system bus is described. The controller provides complete support for dual-port memories and memories with error checking and correction. The controller has programmable attributes for configuring it to the particular requirements of the system. The controller uses parallel arbitration to minimize arbitration delay. A memory cycle will start on the same clock edge that samples a command if the cycle has been previously enabled. Novel logic and circuit design techniques have been used to achieve 16 MHz operation, 20 ns input setup time, and 35 ns output delay time.
Compressive creep behavior of Mo5Si3 with the addition of boron

Abstract Mo5Si3 shows high creep resistance but poor high temperature oxidation resistance. Previous work has shown that the oxidation rate of Mo5Si3 can be decreased with the addition of boron. By adding 1.3 wt % boron to a silicon deficient composition, a three phase microstructure composed of Mo5Si3 (T1), Mo5Si3, and a ternary Mo5(Si,B)3 (T2) phase was synthesized. The compressive creep rate of this composition was evaluated at 1240–1320 °C and 120–180 MPa. The average creep stress exponent and activation energy for the three phase material were found to be n = 4.3 and E a = 396 kJ mol . TEM analysis of the crept microstructure of the boron modified material reveals no evidence for dislocation activity in T1. Only basal slip was observed in the T2 phase while polygonal sub-grain structures were observed in Mo3Si.
Nadolol and isosorbide prevented recurrent variceal bleeding better than did endoscopic ligation in cirrhosis

Source Citation Villanueva C, Minana J, Ortiz J, et al. Endoscopic ligation compared with combined treatment with nadolol and isosorbide mononitrate to prevent recurrent variceal bleeding. N Engl J...
Subjective Workload under Individual and Team Performance Conditions

This study compares an individual's workload when working alone versus working with another person on a complex cognitive task. Twenty-four participants worked alone and in dyadic teams under varying conditions of team interaction and time stress. Measures of performance and individual ratings of self and team workload were recorded. Results address subjective workload under individual and team conditions. Further individual perceptions of personal workload and team workload are compared. These results have implications for the use of teams in operational systems.
The synthesis of globin dimers by a reticulocyte cell-free system.

Abstract The soluble, labeled product of a cell-free system derived from rabbit reticulocytes was investigated to determine its role in the assembly of hemoglobin (Hb). It has been concluded that the cell-free system synthesizes a protein which by two independent criteria is not yet a finished Hb molecule. The product was found to be more basic than Hb on ion-exchange chromatography and to have a molecular weight, as determined by gel filtration and sucrose density centrifugation, characteristic of a dimer. The dimer is unstable but can be converted, in part, to a stable Hb-like molecule by exogenous hemin. These findings suggest that the dimer is an intermediate in the synthesis of Hb. The significance of this is discussed in relation to the regulation of Hb synthesis.
NADH-ferric reductase activity associated with dihydropteridine reductase.

In mammals dietary ferric iron is reduced to ferrous iron for more efficient absorption by the intestine. Analysis of a pig duodenal membrane fraction revealed two NADH-dependent ferric reductase activities, one associated with a b-type cytochrome and the other not. Purification and characterization of the non-cytochrome ferric reductase identified a 31 kDa protein. MALDI-MS analysis and amino acid sequencing identified the ferric reductase as being related to the 26 kDa liver NADH-dependent quinoid dihydropteridine reductase (DHPR). The NADH-dependent DHPR ferric reductase activity was found to be pteridine-independent since exhaustive dialysis did not reduce activity and heat-inactivation destroyed activity. In intestinal Caco-2 cells, DHPR mRNA levels were found to be regulated by iron. Thus, DHPR appears to be a dual function enzyme, a NADH-dependent dihydopteridine reductase and an iron-regulated, NADH-dependent, pteridine-independent ferric reductase.
Distribution of cross-links between mRNA analogues and 16 S rRNA in Escherichia coli 70 S ribosomes made under equilibrium conditions and their response to tRNA binding.

The interaction between mRNA and Escherichia coli ribosomes has been studied by photochemical cross-linking using mRNA analogues that contain 4-thiouridine (s4U) or s4U modified with azidophenylacyl bromide (APAB), either two nucleotides upstream or eight nucleotides downstream from the nucleotide sequence ACC, the codon for tRNAThr. The sequences of the mRNA analogues were described earlier (Stade, K., Rinke-Appel, J., and Brimacombe, R.(1989) Nucleic Acids Res. 17, 9889-9908; Rinke-Appel, J., Stade, K., and Brimacombe, R.(1991) EMBO J. 10, 2195-2202). Under equilibrium conditions, both of these mRNA analogues bind and cross-link to 70 S ribosomes without the presence of tRNAThr; however, there are significant increases both in binding and particularly in cross-linking in the presence of the tRNAThr. Four regions contain cross-linking sites that increase in the presence of tRNA, C1395, A532, A1196 (and minor sites around these three positions), and C1533/U1532. Three other cross-linking sites, U723, A845, and U1381, show very little change in extent of cross-linking when tRNA is present. A conformational change in the 30 S subunit allowing additional accessibility to the 16 S rRNA by the mRNA analogues upon tRNA binding best explains the behavior of the tRNA-dependent and tRNA-independent mRNA-16 S rRNA cross-linking sites.
Paraquat and Parkinson's disease: an overview of the epidemiology and a review of two recent studies.

Abstract Objective This paper reviews and evaluates two recent epidemiologic studies focused on pesticides, and in particular, paraquat as a cause of PD. Both studies are derived primarily from the Agricultural Health Study (AHS). A review and evaluation is also provided on the AHS and several additional studies of paraquat and PD. Methods The methods used to design and conduct the studies and analyze the data are described and evaluated. Results Studies were inadequately designed and often underpowered with very few exposed individuals. They were not population-based, failed to distinguish incident from prevalent cases, relied on multiple comparisons, and may have reported results selectively. The results across the studies are inconsistent. Conclusions The inherent difficulties of studying Parkinson’s disease in relation to paraquat or other pesticides are well illustrated by these studies. A conclusion regarding these relationships cannot be reached based on the current literature. Further research with higher methodological standards is needed to reach a definitive conclusion.
Polydisperse mixture adsorption kinetics

We present a theoretical study of the adsorption kinetics of particles with a continuous distribution of sizes. If the particles interact with short-ranged forces, the diminishing rate of adsorption with increasing surface coverage can be attributed to a geometrical blocking effect of the preadsorbed particles. We exploit the fact that at low coverages the blocking effects result from isolated adsorbed particles to develop an analytic description of the adsorption kinetics using a moment expansion approach. We evaluate the time-dependent surface coverage, density and the average size of the adsorbed particles and compare these quantities with those of the bulk phase. The effect of desorption is studied by introducing a size-independent desorption constant, and the corresponding adsorption equilibria properties, which are valid at low coverages, are derived. Simulation results for irreversible adsorption are obtained and compared with the theoretical predictions.
Two classes of Kramers-Kronig sum rules

Abstract Using the Kramers-Kronig relations, two classes of sum rules obeyed by the frequency-dependent dielectric function have been derived. They may provide helpful restrictions in determining the form of ϵ 1 ( ω ) at frequencies too high to be measured.
The van Hemmen spin glass revisited

We simulated the van Hemmen spin glass model by multicanonical algorithm. The exact results for this mean-field model are reproduced. Physical quantities such as energy density, specific heat, susceptibility and order parameters are evaluated at all temperatures. We also studied an alternate model with short range interactions, which displays the many-valley picture in 2D for random variables having values ±1.
Assessment of service adequacy of primary health care physicians in a two county region of Ohio, USA

The following conclusions can be made based on the survey and analysis of physicians in Summit and Portage counties for 1980: 1. a) Considering Summit and Portage counties as a whole, there is no shortage of primary health care physicians. Based on this analysis, it can be concluded that no additional primary health care physicians are needed for the counties as a whole. b) There is, however, a shortage of primary health care physicians in specific areas such as Norton City and rural Portage County. Therefore, these two areas could be considered as sites for additional primary are physicians. 2. a) There is an adequate number of general physicians (GP/FP/IM) in the two county region and therefore it is concluded that no additional general physicians be added. b) There are, however, two specific areas (Norton city and rural Portage County) which need additional general physicians. 3. The number of obstetricians and gynecologists is barely adequate for the two-county region. Therefore, additional OB-GYNs are needed not only in rural Summit and Portage counties, but also in Tallmadge and Fairlawn cities. 4. There is a general need of additional pediatricians in the two-county region except for Akron and Fairlawn cities. 5. Downtown Akron and its surrounding areas, along with the center of Kent, are depicted by the MUA Index (Fig8 through 11) as underserved with large concentrations of people below the poverty level. The needs of these areas are not explained by excessive distance from physicians, but due to the economic inability of the residents to afford a physician and pay for the cost of the travel. Further investigation should be completed to determine whether medical care benefits for such residents are adequate and whether affordable transportation and financial capability are available.
Left Ventricular False Tendons: Benign Anatomic Variant or Ominous Warning?

One of the (unintended) outcomes of echocardiography is the increasing recognition of small or thin intracardiac structures previously seen only on autopsy. Examples of this are the noduli of Arantius, Lambl’s excrescences, eustachian valve remnants, the crista terminalis, and the discrete fibromuscular structures known as left ventricular false tendons (LVFTs). Echocardiographers need a clear understanding of these anatomic structures, including their genesis and possible clinical significance. Many members of the echocardiographic community, including this author, have dismissed LVFTs as innocuous normal variants when instructing our trainees in echocardiographic interpretation. Novice echocardiographers occasionally will misinterpret LVFTs as the edge of an apical thrombus. In this issue of the Journal, Kenchaiah et al report in detail the echocardiographic characteristics, clinical correlates, and prognostic significance of LVFTs. The data for their report are extracted from the invaluable Framingham Heart Study, begun in 1948. Between 1987 and 1990, 2-dimensional echocardiograms were recorded in 5137 participants in the Framingham Study, and LVFTs were noted by the sonographers. Eighty-eight echocardiograms, all those originally identified by sonographers showing LVFTs, were retrospectively reviewed in detail by echocardiographers for this report, as were twice that number, 176 echocardiograms, matched by age and sex but not originally identifiedashavingLVFTs.The re-reviewwasdone inblinded fashion ina randomized sequence. The diagnosis of LVFTs was based on the demonstration of a linear echogenic strand, in continuity with the left ventricular free wall or papillary muscle and the interventricular septum, seen in at least 2 planes. Tautness and laxity of the LVFT were ascertained at end systole and end diastole because an LVFT could conceivably induce arrhythmias or murmurs if stretched to its limit. The authors identified 107 LVFTs in 101 of the Framingham participants. Body mass index was inversely related to the presence of LVFTs, suggesting that LVFTs are more difficult to recognize in obese patients with poorer quality echocardiograms. An association of left ventricular hypertrophy with LVFTs became nonsignificant on adjustment for body mass index. Innocent precordial murmurs were found in 9% of patients with LVFTs versus 2% without (P = .02). Systolic dysfunction (ejection fraction < 50%) on echocardiogram was found in 10% of LVFTs versus 4% without LVFT (P = .049, borderline). There was no association of LVFTs with heart failure, repolarization abnormalities, ventricular premature beats, or ventricular tachycardia. During a mean follow-up of 7.7 years, there was no association between LVFTs and mortality.
Pressure-Induced Luminescence Rigidochromism in the Photophysics of the Cuprous Iodide Cluster Cu4I4py4

The effect of applied hydrostatic pressure (up to 275 MPa) on the photophysical properties of the cuprous iodide cluster Cu4I4py4 (I) in room temperature solutions has been examined. Although there was little pressure effect on emission spectra or lifetimes under conditions where the solutions remained fluid, dramatic hypsochromic shifts in the emission bands occurred when P exceeded that pressure necessary to induce the solvent to undergo the room temperature phase transition from fluid to solid (Pf). For example, in ambient pressure benzene, the λmaxem of the “cluster-centered” (CC) emission of I is 695 nm, but at P ≥ Pf (72 MPa) this shifts to 575 nm, similar to the λmaxem seen for solid I (580 nm). In contrast to the pressure-induced rigidochromism displayed by the luminescence spectrum of I, the emission lifetimes proved relatively insensitive to P. Notably, the CC* state of Cu4I4py4 represents an unusual example displaying rigidochromism but not solvatochromism in its luminescence. For comparison, a...
Successful and unsuccessful sites of radiofrequency catheter ablation of accessory atrioventricular connections

Local electrograms from 47 consecutive patients who underwent successful radiofrequency catheter ablation of 49 accessory atrioventricular (AV) connections were analyzed. One hundred twenty-two local electrograms were recorded at 27 successful and 95 unsuccessful sites immediately before radiofrequency catheter ablation of 27 manifest accessory AV connections during preexcited sinus rhythm or atrial pacing. Continuous electric activity was found in 96% of successful sites versus 71% of unsuccessful sites (p < 0.01). Possible accessory pathway (AP) potentials were present only in 15% of successful and 2% of unsuccessful sites, respectively (p < 0.05). All measured time intervals were significantly shorter for successful sites as compared to unsuccessful sites of ablation of manifest accessory AV connections. Unipolar electrograms from the tip of the ablation catheter of each successful and unsuccessful ablation site were available for the last 16 patients with manifest accessory AV connections. A PQS pattern of the unipolar electrogram was associated with a higher success rate, whereas a PrS pattern never resulted in successful ablation of an accessory AV connection. Multivariate logistic regression analysis of the local electrogram characteristics of rapidly conducting, concealed accessory AV connections revealed the interval between the onset of the local ventricular and atrial electrogram (VoAo interval) as the only independent variable associated with successful sites for radiofrequency catheter ablation. The only study patient with a slowly conducting, concealed accessory AV connection underwent successful ablation with the first lesion of radiofrequency energy at the site with the shortest VoAo interval. We conclude that (1) the shortest local AV intervals and local ventricular electrograms preceding the earliest onset of the delta wave in any surface lead are predictive of successful ablation of manifest accessory AV connections; (2) the shortest local VA intervals during orthodromic AV reentry tachycardia or right ventricular pacing are predictive of successful ablation of concealed accessory AV connections; and (3) unipolar recordings from the tip of the ablation catheter should be recorded routinely during mapping of manifest accessory AV connections to identify appropriate target sites for radiofrequency energy applications.
Analysis of the Characteristics of Individual Investors in Real Estate Securities and Income‐Producing Property

Analysis of the responses to a nationwide survey of investors demonstrates that individuals who invest in real estate differ in a predictable way from those who invest in assets other than real estate. Two types of real estate investment vehicles are studied: income‐producing (rental) property and real estate securities. A multiple group discriminant analysis model is presented which successfully classifies prospective investors into four groups (owners of income property only, real estate securities only, both, neither) with a predictive accuracy more than double the chance probability of correct classification. The results provide insights useful in policy analysis and the design and marketing of real estate investments.
Acer saccharum response to concurrent disturbances: the importance of stem layering as an adaptive trait

For shade-tolerant saplings persisting under heavy forest shade, the probability of release by disturbance is directly related to longevity. We examined the effects of two concurrent disturbances, ...
A semiparametric changepoint model

A semiparametric changepoint model is considered and the empirical likelihood method is applied to detect the change from a distribution to a weighted distribution in a sequence of independent random variables. The maximum likelihood changepoint estimator is shown to be consistent. The empirical likelihood ratio test statistic is proved to have the same limit null distribution as that with parametric models. A data-based test for the validity of the models is also proposed. Simulation shows the sensitivity and robustness of the semiparametric approach. The methods are applied to some classical datasets such as the Nile River data and stock price data.
Hydrogen defects in proton bombarded KCl

Abstract Optical absorption bands are observed in the uv and ir proton bombarded KCl at LNT. It is demonstrated that the absorption is due to trapped protons, and the largest uv band has been identified with the U center.
Peculiar Magnetism of the Sm(1−x)GdxTiO3 System

Abstract Magnetic susceptibility measurements were made on polycrystalline samples of the system Sm(1−x)GdxTiO3 (0.10≤x≤1.0) and on single-crystal GdTiO3. A systematic decrease in the magnetic ordering temperature with increasing x 0.5, was interpreted to signal a competition between antiferromagnetic and ferromagnetic coupling among itinerant π* electrons of the TiO3 array. In a field H>1 kOe, GdTiO3 approached saturation with a moment of 6 μB/formula unit, consistent with collinear-spin ferrimagnetism. Semicovalent exchange was invoked to justify the observed antiferromagnetic coupling between Gd(III) and Ti(III) spins. However, the M–H curves taken in ±50 kOe were unusual; they were essentially anhysteretic with no measurable remanence or coercivity, but a small ferromagnetic component observed in 20 Oe was typical of a weak, canted-spin ferromagnetism on an antiferromagnetic TiO3 array. The lack of hysteresis and the approach to a ferrimagnetic saturation in high magnetic fields was found for all x for small as well as high applied fields. Although the TiO3 array orders antiferromagnetically below a critical temperature, a ferromagnetic moment was induced on the TiO3 array by an applied magnetic field and by the molecular field associated with antiferromagnetic Gd–Ti interactions. The applied H required to saturate the ferromagnetic moment on the TiO3 array decreased with increasing x.
Human health perspective of environmental exposure to hydrazines: A review

Abstract Hydrazines are colorless liquid compounds that have been found at various Department of Defense hazardous waste sites. They are designated as environmental contaminants causing adverse effects to public health and have been identified at many National Priorities List (NPL) hazardous waste sites and federal facilities sites in the United States. Three chemically similar hydrazines - hydrazine, 1, 1-dimethylhydrazine, and 1,2-dimethylhydrazine - occur in the environment and cause adverse health effects to persons living near hazardous waste sites. Humans are exposed to hydrazines by drinking contaminated water, by inhaling contaminated air, or by swallowing or touching contaminated dust. Human occupational data and studies in laboratory animals suggest that people exposed to hydrazines may develop adverse systemic health effects or cancer. Hydrazines have caused cancer in animals following acute- or intermediate-duration exposure by the oral and inhalation routes. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the International Agency for Research on Cancer, and the World Health Organization have classified hydrazines as possible cancer- causing environmental contaminants. The presented information may be useful to public health officials, physicians, toxicologists, and government agencies for evaluating health effects data on hydrazines.
Using a Videotape Clip to Demonstrate the Fallibility of Eyewitness Testimony.

This classroom demonstration was a readily available videotape clip of a robbery to introduce the topic of eyewitness testimony. Students view the videotape clip a d, after a delay, complete a multiple-choice m t y test for the witnessed event. Students generally perform more poorly than they expect on the test, which Lads to a discussion of the fallibility of memory for witnessed events.
Lighting the Fire: How Peer-Mentoring Helps Adult Learners Increase Their I nterest in STEM Careers: A Case Study at the Community College Level

In the U.S., about 7,000 high school students drop out each school day, representing a loss of talent and ability. Concurrently, there are a decreasing number of enrolled students taking science-related courses at the high school and college levels. Adults, who return to obtain their General Educational Development (GED) certification, are an untapped resource that could be steered toward STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) careers. In this case study, 15 GED students were shown a STEM video, and then peer mentored by 8 CLA (Clinical Laboratory Assistant) students, in a student-centered laboratory experience. Individual interviews of the GED students prior to and after the treatment were used to assess STEM attitudes. Additionally, the CLA peer mentors were given self-assessments regarding their level of self-efficacy. The most marked difference in the preand post-treatment data was with the male GED students. Initially, only 2 of the 7 had definite career goals, 5 with undefined career goals, with 4 showing no interest in STEM. After the treatment, 6 exhibited interest in pursuing STEM education or employment. The female GED students’ interest remained unchanged, resulting in the male and female students showing equivalent interest in STEM post-treatment. The CLA peer mentors showed an increase in self-efficacy using Bandura’s four sources of self-efficacy in social cognition (1997). The preliminary results of this study suggest that interest in STEM education and STEM careers can be generated with peer mentored learning. (Contains 2 figures and 7 tables.)
Effects of hydrogen pressure and temperature on free radicals produced in coal-tire coprocessing

Abstract In-situ ESR (Electron spin resonance) spectroscopy of free radicals is used to investigate the coprocessing of Blind Canyon coal with Michelin tire rubber for temperatures up to 480°C and under H 2 and argon pressures up to 1000 psig. Comparing the free radical intensities of the coal and the tire alone with those obtained for the 1:1 coal-tire mixtures, determined under 500 and 1000 psig of H 2 and under 1000 psig of inert argon, the following observations are made. First, a strong synergism between the coal and the tire polymer is indicated, as the intensity of the ESR-active free radicals in the coal-tire mixture under H 2 pressure are enhanced severalfold beginning at ≈ 200°C and peaking near 350°C. Second, increasing the H 2 pressure from 500 to 1000 psig reduces the free radical intensity, most likely because of enhanced hydrogenation. Third, the tire polymer gives a weak ESR-active signal whose characteristics change dramatically between 140°C and 200°C, indicating a phase change in the tire material. The synergistic effect observed here is consistent with the reported improved yields in direct liquefaction experiments using coal-tire mixtures.
Provider perspectives on presenting risk information and managing worry about recurrence among breast cancer survivors.

Background Although worry about recurrence is a persistent concern among breast cancer survivors, little is known about physicians' confidence about presenting recurrence risk information, identifying women with considerable worry, and helping women manage worry. Methods Between January and June 2012, we surveyed 750 surgeons and 750 medical oncologists randomly sampled from the American Medical Association Physician Masterfile. We tested differences between surgeons and medical oncologists on confidence of presenting risk, identifying and managing worry using chi-square statistic and Student's t-tests and developed multiple variable logistic regression models to explain odds regarding confidence and use of different strategies for managing worry. Results The analytic sample included 403 surgeons and 363 medical oncologists (n = 766; response rate = 60%). Compared with surgeons, medical oncologists were significantly more likely to report confidence in: presenting risk information (87.5% vs 73.2%), identifying women who are worried (74.1% vs 63.9%), and managing worry (66.9% vs 52.4%). Confidence in managing worry was associated with more regular inquiry about worry (p = 0.009). Models of the likelihood of using different management strategies varied by provider type (e.g., surgeons more likely than medical oncologists to recommend support group or online resources, oncologists more likely to refer to psychologist or use medications, all p < 0.05). Conclusion Cancer providers, particularly surgeons, may benefit from educational training to raise confidence in identifying women with high levels of worry and managing women with considerable worry. Communication between specialties and primary care physicians on efforts to manage worry is necessary for coordinated, quality care for women with breast cancer. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
New methodologies for measuring film thickness, coverage, and topography

We describe how the techniques of X-ray reflectivity (XRR), electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis (ESCA), and atomic force microscopy (AFM) can be used to obtain the structural parameters-thickness, coverage, and topography-of thin films used on magnetic recording disks. We focus on ultra-thin amorphous nitrogenated carbon (CNx) overcoats on disks. Each technique has its own strengths: XRR measures film thickness absolutely, ESCA determines the chemical composition of the films, and AFM maps topography accurately. For the CNx overcoats investigated, we find incomplete coverage for thicknesses less than 20 /spl Aring/, and we find a small surface roughness with rms roughness /spl les/11 /spl Aring/.
Comorbidity and Mortality in COPD- Related Hospitalizations in the United States, 1979 to 2001*

Study objectives: COPD is one of the leading causes of mortality and morbidity in the United States, yet little is known about the prevalence of comorbid conditions and mortality in hospitalized patients with COPD. Design: From the National Hospital Discharge Survey, 1979 to 2001, we evaluated whether or not COPD in adults > 25 years old is associated with increased prevalence and in-hospital mortality of several comorbidities. Results: During 1979 to 2001, there were an estimated total of 47,404,700 hospital discharges (8.5% of all hospitalizations in adults > 25 years old) of patients with COPD; 37,540,374 discharges (79.2%) were made with COPD as a secondary diagnosis, and 9,864,278 discharges (20.8%) were made with COPD as the primary diagnosis. The prevalence and in-hospital mortality for pneumonia, congestive heart failure, ischemic heart disease, thoracic malignancies, and respiratory failure were larger in hospital discharges with any mention of COPD. Conclusions: In a nationally representative sample of hospitalizations, any mention of COPD in the discharge diagnosis is associated with higher hospitalization prevalence and in-hospital mortality from other comorbidities. These results highlight the fact that the burden of disease associated with COPD is likely underestimated. (CHEST 2005; 128:2005–2011)
Protein interactions during coronavirus assembly

Coronaviruses assemble and obtain their envelope at membranes of the intermediate compartment between the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi complex. Like other enveloped viruses, coronavirus assembly is presumably dependent on protein localization and protein-protein as well as protein-RNA interactions. We have used the bovine coronavirus (BCV) as a model to study interactions between the viral proteins in virus-infected cells that are important for coronavirus assembly. BCV is a prototype for the coronaviruses that express an additional major structural protein, the hemagglutinin esterase (HE), in addition to the spike (S) glycoprotein, membrane (M) glycoprotein, and nucleocapsid (N) protein. Complexes consisting of the M, S, and HE proteins were detected in virus-infected cells by coimmunoprecipitations. Kinetic analyses demonstrated that S protein and HE each quickly formed a complex with M protein after synthesis, whereas heterocomplexes consisting of all three proteins formed more slowly. The kinetics of HE biosynthesis revealed that the half-life of oligomerization was approximately 30 min, which correlated with the appearance of complexes consisting of M, HE, and S proteins, suggesting that oligomerization and/or conformational changes may be important for the S-M-HE protein complexes to form. Only HE dimers were found associated with the heterocomplexes consisting of all three proteins. S-M-HE protein complexes were detected prior to processing of the oligosaccharide chains on HE, indicating that these protein complexes formed in a premedial Golgi compartment before trimming of sugar chains. Transient coexpressions and double-labeling immunofluorescence demonstrated that HE and S proteins colocalized with M protein. This was further supported by coimmunoprecipitation of specific HE-M and S-M protein complexes from transfected cells, indicating that these proteins can form complexes in the absence of other viral proteins.
Potassium Channels, Memory T Cells, and Multiple Sclerosis:

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease of the central nervous system characterized by demyelination and axonal damage that result in disabling neurological deficits. Here the authors explain the rationale for the use of inhibitors of the Kv1.3 K+ channel in immune cells as a therapy for multiple sclerosis and other autoimmune disorders.
Using the Nursing Culture Assessment Tool (NCAT) in Long-Term Care: An Update on Psychometrics and Scoring Standardization.

An effective workforce performing within the context of a positive cultural environment is central to a healthcare organization’s ability to achieve quality outcomes. The Nursing Culture Assessment Tool (NCAT) provides nurses with a valid and reliable tool that captures the general aspects of nursing culture. This study extends earlier work confirming the tool’s construct validity and dimensionality by standardizing the scoring approach and establishing norm-referenced scoring. Scoring standardization provides a reliable point of comparison for NCAT users. NCAT assessments support nursing’s ability to evaluate nursing culture, use results to shape the culture into one that supports change, and advance nursing’s best practices and care outcomes. Registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, and certified nursing assistants from 54 long-term care facilities in Kentucky, Nevada, North Carolina, and Oregon were surveyed. Confirmatory factor analysis yielded six first order factors forming the NCAT’s subscales (Expectations, Behaviors, Teamwork, Communication, Satisfaction, Commitment) (Comparative Fit Index 0.93) and a second order factor—The Total Culture Score. Aggregated facility level comparisons of observed group variance with expected random variance using rwg(J) statistics is presented. Normative scores and cumulative rank percentages and how the NCAT can be used in implementing planned change are provided.
The effect of chronic alcohol administration on the immune responsiveness of rats

Abstract A series of studies were carried out to determine the effect of chronic alcohol administration on cellular and humoral immunity in the rat. Alcohol-treated rats received an alcohol liquid formula diet for 3 months, and this uniformly resulted in the development of a fatty liver. In alcohol-treated rats there was a delay in antibody production to both typhoid H and B. abortus antigens following a primary immunization. The peak titers obtained, however, were not significantly different from those of the control animals. The secondary response to typhoid H antigen was not affected. The expression of cutaneous delayed hypersensitivity to a potent skin sensitizing chemical, 2, 4-dinitrofluorobenzene, was also depressed in alcohol-treated rats. Animals receiving alcohol also had markedly atrophic thymuses and small spleens. The normal thymuses and adrenal glands found in control animals treated with ACTH injections indicate that the changes were not due to hyperactivity of the adrenal cortex in a stressful situation. It is postulated that the deleterious effects of alcohol on the immune system of rats may be due to alteration in either reticuloendothelial or thymic function.
Approaching Clinical Application of Xenotransplantation

Data on the natural history of descending and thoracoabdominal aneurysms are limited to a few studies. They demonstrated that, independent from the different mechanisms of injury and degeneration affecting the structural integrity of the aortic wall, the biologic fate of all aneurysms is progressive enlargement and rupture. Laminated thrombus and calcification do not prevent this process. The natural history is markedly influenced by size, location, symptoms, and etiology of thoracic aneurysms. They may develop symptoms related to mechanical compression of adjacent structures, but more frequently they are asymptomatic until rupture occurs. Usually, aortic rupture causes death by exsanguination and shock before bleeding can be controlled. Occasionally, rupture can be contained by the parietal pleura or occur towards the mediastinum, esophagus, pulmonary parenchyma, or bronchi. Untreated aneurysms will cause death in the majority of patients because of rupture. Recent data evaluating smaller and asymptomatic thoracic aneurysms with CT scan support nonoperative management and close follow-up of descending and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms only when the diameter is less than 5 cm. Patients with Marfan syndrome may be operated upon with smaller aneurysms. Independent of etiology, operative repair is the most effective means to alter the otherwise malignant course of descending and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms. The role of endovascular repair of these aneurysms remains to be established; however, it may represent an alternative to treat thoracic aneurysmal disease in very high risk patients.
Differences in consumer attributions of blame between men and women: The role of perceived vulnerability and empathic concern

This article explores differences in blame attributions between men and women in a consumer context. The first experiment finds that women blame a company more than men for a product harm crisis. A second experiment replicates these results in a different product harm crisis and suggests the process underlying these differences. The results of tests of mediation suggest that women blame a company more than men for a product harm crisis because they feel more personally vulnerable to a similar crisis occurring to them. The tests of mediation also show that empathic concern is not the reason driving the differences between men and women in consumer attributions of blame despite observed differences on this personality trait. The theoretical and practical implications of this research are discussed. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The effect of steep sea-waves on polarization ratio at low grazing angles

A backscattering numerical model based on a two-scale representation of surface roughness is developed for one-dimensional (1D) sea surfaces at low grazing angles. The effect of the large-scale roughness component is accounted for by a numerical solution of the integral equation for surface field obtained in the forward-scattering approximation. The presence of the small-scale roughness responsible for backscattering is treated by the small-perturbation theory. The numerical simulations accomplished support the viewpoint that the significant difference between experimentally observed and numerically calculated values of polarization ratio for low grazing angles is most likely due to inadequate modeling of surface roughness. It is demonstrated that adding a few relatively minor steep-wave-like features to the surface with the standard Pierson-Moskowitz spectrum will change the average polarization ratio dramatically, bringing its theoretical values from about -20 dB to experimentally observed values of a few negative dB. Half of this increase is due to steepening of the front faces of the undulating waves. However, the other 10 dB of increase is due to diffraction effects, which enhance the scattering coefficient for the HH-polarization on the front faces of the steep waves.
Promoting transition to adulthood for youth with physical disabilities and health impairments

Post school outcomes for individuals with disabilities have been consistently poor, when compared to individuals without disabilities, in the areas of employment and education. This article takes a look at issues involved in the transition of youth with orthopedic or physical disabilities (OPD) and other health impairments (OHI). It begins with an overview of OPD and OHI students. This is followed by information on how to improve transition from school to work and postsecondary education outcomes through assessment; effective instruction; and individualized supports.