bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Attitudes of Homeless and Drug‐Using Youth Regarding Barriers and Facilitators in Delivery of Quality and Culturally Sensitive Health Care
Authors: Christiani Ashley , Hudson Angela L. , Nyamathi Adeline , Mutere Malaika , Sweat Jeffrey
Published: July 2008

PROBLEM:  Major barriers to care included a lack of culturally competent, accessible care despite the proximity of numerous health service agencies serving homeless youth.

METHODS:  A qualitative approach using semistructured focus groups was used to assess the perspectives of 54 homeless and drug‐using youth, aged 18–24 years, recruited from street‐ and shelter‐based settings.

FINDINGS:  Substance use was perceived as an adaptive response to psychological pain and survival on the streets as well as a health risk and barrier to care.

CONCLUSIONS:  Facilitators to care and suggestions for improved health delivery and quality of care included utilization of health “mentors” to assist in navigating the medical system, cultural competency enhancements, improved amenities in clinic wait areas, and expanded pharmaceutical services.
Autumn sowing increases severity of pasmo (Mycosphaerella linicola) on linseed in the UK
Authors: Perryman S.A.M , Gladders P. , Fitt B.D.L.
Published: July 2008

Surveys and field experiments showed pasmo to be the most serious disease affecting UK winter linseed in the 1997–98, 1998–99 and 1999–2000 growing seasons. Survey data indicated that pasmo was widespread in England and Scotland, causing extensive loss of leaves and stem and capsule symptoms, on both winter and spring linseed crops. In winter linseed experiments at ADAS Boxworth and Rothamsted, when severe epidemics occurred (1997–98 and 1999–2000), control of pasmo with one or two MBC fungicide sprays increased yield. In experiments when severe pasmo epidemics did not occur (1998–99), fungicide applications did not increase yield. In all three growing seasons, large numbers of air‐borne Mycosphaerella linicola ascospores were collected in the summer months. At the time when the winter linseed crop was emerging and becoming established in October/November, there were more air‐borne M. linicola ascospores in 1999 than in 1998. April/May rainfall was much greater in 1998 (135 mm) and 2000 (223 mm), when severe pasmo epidemics developed by July, than in 1999 (68 mm) when disease severity in July was less. Regression analyses suggested that yield decreased as percentage area affected by pasmo on leaves or stems in July increased. The formulae relating yield loss to pasmo severity, derived from these experiments, were combined with disease survey data to estimate, retrospectively, the UK national losses from pasmo. Estimated national losses from pasmo on winter linseed, although >50% of crops were sprayed with fungicide, were approximately £2.9M in 1998, £1.6M in 1999 and £0.37M in 2000 (when the area of winter linseed had decreased greatly). Estimated combined losses on winter and spring linseed were approximately £14.8M in 1998, £34.9M in 1999 and £11.0M in 2000.
Detection of Coconut cadang‐cadang viroid sequences in oil and coconut palm by ribonuclease protection assay
Authors: Vadamalai G. , Perera A.A.F.L.K. , Hanold D. , Rezaian M.A. , Randles J.W.
Published: July 2008

A ribonuclease protection assay (RPA) has been developed for detecting Coconut cadang‐cadang viroid (CCCVd) sequences. An RNA probe complementary to full‐length CCCVd246 was used, terminating at nucleotide 65 in the upper conserved region, and linked to a non‐viroid 5′ sequence, which acted as an internal control for ribonuclease activity. Extracts from CCCVd‐infected coconut (Cocos nucifera) and African oil (Elaeis guineensis) palms protected three major fragments of approximately 250, 125 and 50 nt and a variable number of minor fragments. Extracts of healthy coconut palms, Potato spindle tuber viroid‐infected tomato and transfer RNA did not protect the probe. The approximately 250 nt fragment is predicted to indicate the presence of monomers and dimers of circular CCCVd246, linear CCCVd246 with the same termini as the probe and point mutants of these forms. The origin of smaller protected fragments is discussed. RPA‐detected CCCVd sequences in 13 of 18 oil palms surveyed in a commercial plantation in Malaysia. Signal intensity varied between the positive oil palms and was generally lower than in coconut palms infected with CCCVd. An infection phenotype was implied but not confirmed by the observation that in a group of 10 oil palms with orange leaf spotting, 9 contained CCCVd, whereas in a group of 8 palms without orange spotting, the viroid was detected in 4. Of four coconut palms in Sri Lanka shown by dot‐blot assay to contain CCCVd‐related RNA, one was shown by RPA to be positive for the CCCVd246 sequence. RPA is therefore a robust and sensitive test for CCCVd sequences, and our results show that sequences closely related to CCCVd246 are not confined to the Philippines.
Modelling the flyby anomalies using a modification of inertia
Authors: McCulloch M. E.
Published: July 2008

The flyby anomalies are unexplained velocity jumps of 3.9, −4.6, 13.5, −2, 1.8 and 0.02 mm s−1 observed near closest approach during the Earth flybys of six spacecraft. These flybys are modelled here using a theory that assumes that inertia is due to a form of Unruh radiation, and varies with acceleration due to a Hubble-scale Casimir effect. Considering the acceleration of the craft relative to every particle of the rotating Earth, the theory predicts that there is a slight reduction in inertial mass with increasing latitude for an unbound craft, since near the pole it sees a lower average relative acceleration. Applying this theory to the inbound and outbound flyby paths, with conservation of momentum, the predicted anomalies were 2.9, −0.9, 20.1, 0.9, 3.2 and −1.3 mm s−1. Three of the flyby anomalies were reproduced within error bars, and the theory explains their recently observed dependence on the latitude difference between their incident and exit trajectories. The errors for the other three flybys were between 1 and 3 mm s−1.
Reproducing the Piper Trilinear Diagram in Rectangular Coordinates
Authors: Ray Ranjan Kumar , Mukherjee Rumi
Published: July 2008

Though several alternatives/modifications to the Piper diagram are available, the Piper diagram is still the most common way of representing chemical analyses. The present note shows how to reproduce the Piper trilinear diagram in rectangular coordinates retaining all the essential features of the trilinear diagram. In this form, it can be generated using commonly used graphics packages without requiring specialized software. A sample data set of six samples from Gurur watershed, Chhattisgarh, India, was used to illustrate the method. The patterns of points produced in the trilinear Piper diagram and the reproduced Piper diagram in rectangular coordinates are essentially identical.
Feminist Philosophy of Art
Authors: Eaton A.W.
Published: July 2008

This article outlines the issues addressed by feminist philosophy of art, critically surveys major developments in the field, and concludes by considering directions in which the field is moving.
The Structure of Aesthetic Properties
Authors: De Clercq Rafael
Published: July 2008

Aesthetic properties are often thought to have either no evaluative component or an evaluative component that can be isolated from their descriptive component. The present article argues that this popular view is without adequate support. First, doubt is cast on the idea that some paradigmatic aesthetic properties are purely descriptive. Second, the idea that the evaluative component of an aesthetic property can always be neatly separated from its descriptive component is called into question. Meanwhile, a speculative hypothesis is launched regarding the structure of being garish and being cacophonous. Finally, an explanation is given of how the issue of the structure of aesthetic properties bears on their reality and (presumed) response‐dependence.
Anti‐Social Behaviour in British Cities
Authors: Millie Andrew
Published: July 2008

In Britain, we have been told by politicians that anti‐social behaviour (ASB) is a menace that has to be tackled. In this review article, evidence is provided that ASB is not a problem that affects us all; rather, concerns are highest within urban areas, particularly in certain deprived neighbourhoods and town and city centres. Possible explanations for this spatial concentration of concern are explored, for instance, relating to the effectiveness of informal social control mechanisms and people's differing behavioural expectations for public spaces. It is contended that some activity may be misidentified as ASB because it does not fit the cultural and social norms of the majority. It is also argued that aesthetics plays a part in determining behavioural acceptability and that, particularly in urban centres, spaces can be cleansed of difference to cater for the tastes of a ‘consuming majority’.
Climate Change, Land‐Use Change, and Floods: Toward an Integrated Assessment
Authors: Chang Heejun , Franczyk Jon
Published: July 2008

Floods occur from a combination of various hydrological, climatological, and land‐use conditions. In this article, we review recent studies to identify primary causes of floods in different regions. These studies suggest that changes in precipitation intensity or amount are responsible for increasing floods in coastal cities, which may also be impacted by sea‐level rise and an increase in the incidence of tropical storms due to global warming and land modifications at different scales enhance vulnerability to flood risks. They indicate the current challenges in flood research include: (i) the integration of data collected at various scales; (ii) the quantification of various feedbacks and uncertainty between climatic and hydrologic systems; (iii) the combination of climate and land‐use models for flood assessment; and (iv) linking flood damage caused by changing climate or land use with spatially explicit socioeconomic data. Specifically, an integrated assessment method is needed to unravel the complex interactions among human systems, terrestrial systems, and climate systems that result in flood risks at multiple scales.
Human coronavirus NL63 infections in infants hospitalised with acute respiratory tract infections in South Africa
Authors: Smuts Heidi
Published: July 2008

Background  Human coronavirus NL63 (HCoV‐NL63) is a novel respiratory virus which is associated with respiratory tract infections in children.

Objective  To determine the role of HCoV‐NL63 in infants and young children hospitalised with acute respiratory tract infections (ARI) in Cape Town, South Africa.

Methods  Respiratory specimens were collected from 1055 infants and young children hospitalised with ARI in 2003–2004. Samples were screened by RT‐PCR to detect HCoV‐NL63 and human metapneumovirus (hMPV). Standard shell vial culture and immunofluoresence was used to detect the common respiratory viruses including RSV, influenza A and B viruses, parainfluenza viruses 1, 2, 3, adenovirus and CMV.

Results  A respiratory virus was found in 401/1055 (38·0%) samples. HCoV‐NL63 was detected in 9/1055 (0·85%) with peak activity during autumn (67%). Most patients had a diagnosis of pneumonia or lower respiratory tract infection (6/9; 67%).

Conclusions  This is the first report of HCoV‐NL63 infections in hospitalised children in Africa. During the 2‐year period HCoV‐NL63 played a minor role in ARI in children.
Protection of the Gastrointestinal Tract Epithelium against Damage from Low pH Beverages
Authors: Kleinman R.E.
Published: July 2008

ABSTRACT:  Extensive consumption of low pH beverages such as citrus juices (pHs 2.3 to 4.3), alcoholic beverages (pHs 2.7 to 4.5), and soft drinks (pHs 2.3 to 4.2) has raised the question of whether exposure of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract to acidic beverages will cause damage to the epithelial lining. To evaluate the potential effects of low pH beverages on the GI tract epithelium, a detailed examination of the literature was undertaken. In some animal models, there is evidence of damage to GI epithelial cells following exposure to low pH beverages; however, in these studies there is no definitive relationship between acidity and the amount or severity of damage. Results from several other studies, conducted in both animals and humans, indicate a lack of adverse effects on epithelial cells. Furthermore, there is no evidence that damage is irreversible. Permanent damage from routine exposure to acidic beverages in humans would not be expected because of repair mechanisms that are available to maintain a healthy epithelium. Additionally, numerous physical, chemical, and biological mechanisms are in place to prevent damage to the epithelial cells. Finally, the safe history of consumption of low pH beverages, including various fruit juices, supports the conclusion that low pH beverage ingestion does not cause damage to the GI epithelium.
Antioxidative and Anti‐Inflammatory Protection of Oleanolic Acid and Ursolic Acid in PC12 Cells
Authors: Tsai Shih‐Jei , Yin M.‐C.
Published: July 2008

ABSTRACT: PC12 cells were used to examine thein vitroantioxidative and anti‐inflammatory effects of oleanolic acid (OA) and ursolic acid (UA). PC12 cells were pretreated with OA or UA at 20 and 40 μM and followed by exposure of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) or 1‐methyl‐4‐phenylpyridinium ion (MPP+) to induce cell injury. Results showed that H2O2‐ or MPP+‐treatment significantly decreased cell viability and increased lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release (P< 0.05). The pretreatment from OA or UA significantly and concentration‐dependently reduced subsequent H2O2‐ or MPP+‐induced cell death and LDH release (P< 0.05). Either H2O2‐ or MPP+‐treatment significantly increased malonyldialdehyde (MDA) formation, decreased glutathione (GSH) content, and diminished glutathione peroxidase (GPX), catalase, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities (P< 0.05). The pretreatment from OA or UA significantly retained GSH, and reversed H2O2‐ and MPP+‐induced impairment in catalase and SOD activities (P< 0.05), and decreased MDA formation (P< 0.05). Either H2O2‐ or MPP+‐treatment significantly elevated interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α levels (P< 0.05). The pretreatments from OA or UA significantly attenuated subsequent H2O2‐ or MPP+‐induced release of IL‐6 and TNF‐α (P< 0.05). Based on the observed antioxidative and anti‐inflammatory activities from OA and UA, these 2 compounds were potent agents against neurodegenerative disorder.
Erythrocytosis and pleural effusion associated with a hepatoblastoma in a Thoroughbred yearling
Authors: Axon JE , Russell CM , Begg AP , Adkins AR
Published: July 2008

A 10‐month‐old Thoroughbred filly was presented with a 2‐month history of recurrent fever and pleural effusion. Major clinical findings were pyrexia and congested mucous membranes. Clinical pathology tests revealed an erythrocytosis, hyperfibrinogenaemia and hyperglobulinaemia. Pleural fluid was seen on ultrasonographic examination of the thorax and analysis of a thoracocentesis sample indicated a lymphocytic, modified transudate. A transtracheal aspirate was normal. The erythrocytosis persisted despite IV fluid therapy. Arterial blood gas analysis and bone marrow aspirate were normal. These findings were indicative of secondary inappropriate erythrocytosis. Ultrasonographic examination of the abdomen showed a large encapsulated heterogeneous mass in the left lobe of the liver. Histopathological evaluation of a biopsy of the mass was indicative of a hepatic carcinoma. The filly was euthanased and necropsy confirmed the presence of a hepatic tumour with no evidence of systemic metastasis. Further histopathological evaluation confirmed the tumour to be an embryonal macrotrabecular epithelial‐type hepatoblastoma, a type of hepatoblastoma that has not previously been reported in a horse.
Reduced quality of bovine embryos cultured in media conditioned by exposure to an inflamed endometrium
Authors: Hill J , Gilbert R
Published: July 2008

Objective  A suboptimal uterine environment contributes to the bovine repeat breeder syndrome. Subclinical endometritis is a component, so the mechanism by which inflammation affects embryo survival was investigated by assessing the effect of non‐cellular products of an inflamed endometrium on embryo development to blastocyst.

Design  Endometrial fluid from a lactating dairy cow was collected by lavage using embryo culture medium. Aseptic inflammation was then induced by infusion of glycogen and lavage was repeated 6 h later. The recovered fluid was used to culture Day 5 in‐vitro‐derived embryos for 2 days. Embryo development and quality were compared for two treatment groups (culture media conditioned by inflamed or non‐inflamed endometrium) and two controls (control or control + serum).

Results  Development to blastocyst was higher for conditioned media or media + serum (inflamed 42.2%; non‐inflamed 49.3%; control + serum 50.9%; control 16.9%; P < 0.001). Blastocyst cell numbers were lower for the conditioned‐inflamed group (inflamed, 83.1; non‐inflamed, 99.8; control + serum, 100.6; control, 110.1; P < 0.001). Trophectoderm cell number, but not inner cell mass number, was reduced in the conditioned‐inflamed group and the inner cell mass:trophectoderm ratio was increased (P < 0.001).

Conclusion  Altering the embryo culture environment with the products of endometrial inflammation had a subtle effect on embryo quality. An increased inner cell mass:trophoblast ratio is likely to negatively affect embryonic survival. Altered embryo quality is a mechanism for early embryonic failure in cows with subclinical endometritis. Culture of embryos with normal endometrial fluid may improve in vitro embryo production.
Encroachment of Echinococcus granulosus into urban areas in eastern Queensland, Australia
Authors: Jenkins DJ , Allen L , Goullet M
Published: July 2008

Objective  To investigate the prevalence of Echinococcus granulosus in wild dogs (dingos and dingo–domestic dog hybrids) living in and around human habitation on Fraser Island and in townships of the Maroochy Shire, on Queensland's Sunshine Coast, Australia.

Design  Wild dogs were humanely killed on Fraser Island and in the Maroochy Shire because they were deemed a potential danger to the public. Their intestines were collected and the contents examined for intestinal parasites.

Procedure  Intestines were removed as soon after death as possible, packed in plastic bags and kept frozen until examination. The intestinal contents were washed, sieved and examined microscopically for the presence of helminths, which were identified and counted.

Results  Intestines from 108 wild dogs, 7 foxes and 18 Fraser Island dingoes were examined. Echinococcus granulosus was only present in the wild dogs from Maroochy Shire (46.3%) with worm burdens of between 30 and 104,000. Other helminths included Spirometra erinacei, Dipylidium caninum, Taenia spp., Ancylostoma caninum and Toxocara canis. Two specimens of a trematode (Haplorchinae sp.) usually found infecting fish and seabirds were recovered from a Fraser Island dingo.

Conclusion  Dingoes on Fraser Island are not infected with E. granulosus and do not pose a hydatid disease public health risk to residents or visitors. However, wild dogs examined from the Maroochy Shire do present a potential hydatid disease public health risk.
The HEXACO Model of Personality Structure and the Importance of the H Factor
Authors: Ashton Michael C. , Lee Kibeom
Published: July 2008

We give a brief summary of recent research on the structure of personality characteristics, describing the six‐dimensional ‘HEXACO’ model that has emerged as the most accurate representation of that structure. We then discuss the importance of personality as a predictor of socially important criteria, describing a variety of examples involving the Honesty–Humility (H) factor. The H dimension, alone or in combination with other factors of the HEXACO model, is related inversely to a wide array of criteria, including criminal activity and other unethical behaviors as well as materialistic and power‐seeking tendencies.
Seven Pillars of Defense Mechanism Theory
Authors: Cramer Phebe
Published: July 2008

Defense mechanisms are cognitive processes that function to protect the individual from excessive anxiety or other negative emotions. They also protect the person from loss of self‐esteem and, in the extreme, the loss of self‐integration. Although past critics questioned the existence of defense mechanisms, recent research has supported seven basic tenets regarding defenses. These include: (1) defenses function outside of awareness; (2) there is a chronology of defense development; (3) defenses are present in the normal personality; (4) defense use increases under conditions of stress; (5) defense use reduces the conscious experience of negative emotions; (6) defense function is connected to the autonomic nervous system; (7) excessive use of defenses is associated with psychopathology. Research supporting the seven pillars of defense mechanism theory is described in this essay.
The Contributions of Personality to Organizational Behavior and Psychology: Findings, Criticisms, and Future Research Directions
Authors: Judge Timothy A. , Klinger Ryan , Simon Lauren S. , Yang Irene Wen Fen
Published: July 2008

Skepticism regarding the importance of personality traits as predictors of organizational behavior criteria has given way to an appreciation of the broad array of work outcomes predicted by personality. This article considers the effects of the five‐factor model (‘Big Five’) personality traits on the following work outcomes: (1) job performance; (2) work motivation; (3) job attitudes; (4) leadership; (5) power, politics, and influence; (6) stress, adaptability, and coping; (7) team effectiveness; (8) counterproductive/deviant workplace behaviors; (9) workplace accidents; and (10) conflict and negotiation. Two contemporary criticisms of personality research in organizational behavior – that the validities are small and that faking undermines the usefulness of personality inventories in employment contexts – are then evaluated. Finally, a brief agenda for future research is provided which highlights needed areas of advancement.
Self‐Esteem and Socioeconomic Disparities in Self‐Perceived Oral Health
Authors: Locker David
Published: July 2008

Objective:To determine if psychosocial factors explain the socioeconomic disparities in self‐perceived oral health that persist after controlling for oral status variables.Methods:Data came from the participants in the Canadian Community Health Survey 2003 who were residents in the city of Toronto. Oral health variables included self‐rated oral health, a 13‐item oral health scale, denture wearing, and having a tooth extracted in the previous year. The last two measures were regarded as proxy indicators of tooth loss. Psychosocial variables included a self‐esteem scale, a depression scale, and single items measuring life satisfaction, life stress, and sense of cohesion. Socioeconomic status was assessed using total annual household income.Results:Interviews were completed with 2,754 dentate persons aged 20 years and over. Bivariate analyses confirmed that there were income gradients in self‐rated oral health and scores on the oral health scale. Linear regression analyses confirmed that these persisted after controlling for age, gender, denture wearing, and having a tooth extracted in the previous year. In the model predicting self‐rated oral health self‐esteem, life satisfaction, stress, a sense of cohesion, and depression also contributed to the model, increased its explanatory power, and reduced the strength of but did not eliminate the association between income and self‐rated oral health. Broadly, similar results were obtained when the oral health scale score was used as the dependent variable. In both analyses and all models, denture wearing had the strongest and most enduring effect.Conclusion:Psychosocial factors partly but do not wholly explain the socioeconomic disparities in self‐perceived oral health in this population after controlling for tooth loss and denture wearing. Other variables need to be added to the models to increase their explanatory power.
Longitudinal Association of Smoking‐Related Attitude to Oral Health with Adolescents' Smoking Onset
Authors: Ayo‐Yusuf Olalekan A. , Van Den Borne Bart , Reddy Priscilla S. , Van Wyk Philippus J. , Severson Herbert H.
Published: July 2008

Objective: The negative oral health effects of smoking, such as stained teeth, gum infection, and bad breath may be more salient to adolescents, and therefore, more important expectancies for adolescent smokers and nonsmokers alike. Informed by the social cognitive theory, this prospective study sought to determine the role of smoking‐related attitude to oral health on smoking onset among adolescents over a 12‐month interval. Method: This prospective study involved a community sample of 422 nonsmoking eighth graders selected from three public schools in the capital city of South Africa. Data were collected through a questionnaire, which included a 5‐point Likert‐scale‐type question on dental disease belief related to smoking (smoking causes plaque and bad breath) and an affective evaluation of this effect (bad breath causes peer rejection). The product of these two later variables was used to compute an attitude score. Higher scores represent a more favorable oral health attitude. Health‐risk behaviors recorded included past month smoking and alcohol use. Results: The mean age of the participants was 13.9 years at baseline. At 1‐year follow‐up, 11.4 percent (n = 48) of nonsmokers at baseline had initiated smoking. Compared to nonsmokers, current smokers were more likely to report frequent bleeding gums (51.2 versus 33.1 percent; P = 0.02), but there was no significant difference in proportions brushing twice daily (64.4 versus 56.5 percent; P = 0.30). In addition to the independent influence of peers and binge drinking, smoking‐related attitude to oral health significantly influenced smoking onset. Conclusion: The study findings support the development of smoking prevention programs that include restructuring of cognitions about the oral health outcomes of smoking.
Work Stress Inventory for Dental Assistants: Development and Psychometric Evaluation
Authors: Khader Yousef S. , Airan Dana M. , Al‐Faouri Ibrahim
Published: July 2008

Objectives: The purposes of this study were to develop a work stress inventory for dental assistants (WSI‐DA) in Jordan and examine its psychometric properties and to describe potentially stressful work‐related conditions related to the profession of dental assistance in Jordan. Methods: A total of 542 dental assistants working in private dental clinics in Jordan participated in this study. The stages of instrument development included selecting an initial item pool, choosing the best items, deciding on the questionnaire format, pretesting the instrument, and determining its reliability and validity. An initial set of 55 items was selected and categorized into nine hypothetical categories. Further testing and using factor analysis ended with a 35‐item, nine‐scale instrument. The raw score for each scale was calculated by adding the responses for individual items and then transformed to 0‐100 scales. The item‐level validity, item internal consistency, item discriminant validity, and Cronbach's alpha were assessed. Results: Nine factors had eigenvalues greater than one. The nine factors accounted for 78.7 percent of the total variability in the 35‐item questionnaire. All item–scale correlations were greater than the recommended correlation of 0.40. Except patient's suffer scale (Cronbach's alpha = 0.56), all other scales demonstrated acceptable internal consistency with Cronbach's alpha exceeding the minimum standard of 0.7 and ranging from 0.71 to 0.87. Test–retest reliability showed acceptable reliability in all nine scales and ranged from 0.61 to 0.92. Conclusions: The 35‐item, nine‐scale WSI‐DA demonstrated acceptable validity and reliability when used among dental assistants in Jordan.
The Groningen Longitudinal Glaucoma Study. II. A prospective comparison of frequency doubling perimetry, the GDx nerve fibre analyser and standard automated perimetry in glaucoma suspect patients
Authors: Jansonius Nomdo M. , Heeg Govert P.
Published: July 2008

Purpose:  We aimed to determine prospectively the incidence of abnormal test results on frequency doubling perimetry (FDT), the nerve fibre analyser (GDx) and standard automated perimetry (SAP) in a cohort of glaucoma suspect patients with normal findings for all these tests at baseline.

Methods:  Seventy glaucoma suspect patients were followed prospectively for 4 years with SAP (Humphrey field analyser 30‐2 SITA Fast), FDT (C‐20 full‐threshold) and GDx (Version 2.010) in a clinical setting. All patients had normal baseline test results on SAP, FDT and GDx. After the follow‐up period, the number of patients who converted (whose test results changed from normal at baseline to reproducibly abnormal during follow‐up) were counted for each technique and then compared. The cut‐off point for FDT was > 1 depressed test‐point p < 0.01 in the total deviation probability plot; the cut‐off point for GDx was the Number > 29.

Results:  Of the 70 glaucoma suspect patients, three converted on FDT, 14 on GDx and six on SAP. These proportions are significantly different for GDx versus SAP (p = 0.033) and GDx versus FDT (p = 0.002), but not for FDT versus SAP (p = 0.256).

Conclusions:  The most frequent finding after a 4‐year follow‐up was conversion on GDx.
Clinical features of intraocular inflammation in Hokkaido, Japan
Authors: Kitamei Hirokuni , Kitaichi Nobuyoshi , Namba Kenichi , Kotake Satoshi , Goda Chiho , Kitamura Mizuki , Miyazaki Akiko , Ohno Shigeaki
Published: July 2008

Purpose:  We aimed to investigate the clinical features of intraocular inflammation/uveitis in Hokkaido, Japan.

Methods:  We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 1240 uveitis patients (511 men, 729 women) who visited Hokkaido University Hospital, Sapporo, Japan between 1994 and 2003.

Results:  Mean age at disease onset was 41.7 ± 17.8 years in men and 45.7 ± 18.3 years in women. Anterior, posterior and combined anterior and posterior segment intraocular inflammation accounted for 45.1%, 4.7% and 50.2% of cases, respectively. Sarcoidosis was the most frequent aetiology (14.9%), followed by Vogt–Koyanagi–Harada (VKH) disease (9.7%) and Behçet’s disease (6.7%). Aetiologies in 49.8% patients were unknown. In sarcoidosis, women represented 72.4% of patients, and disease onset occurred at 35.1 ± 19.0 years of age in men and 50.3 ± 16.5 years in women. In VKH disease, 54.2% of patients were women, and disease onset took place at 45.9 ± 15.8 years in men and 46.4 ± 14.1 years in women. In Behçet’s disease, men accounted for 56.6% of patients, and disease onset occurred at 35.5 ± 8.5 years in men and 44.5 ± 11.5 years in women.

Conclusions:  Women were more prone to developing sarcoidosis compared with men. By contrast, men were more prone to developing Behçet’s disease. The mean age at disease onset in both sarcoidosis and Behçet’s disease was significantly lower in men than in women.
Direct Evaluation of Pressure Distribution of Frictionless Axisymmetric Indentation Problems
Authors: Fu Guanghui
Published: July 2008

The pressure distribution between a rigid frictionless axisymmetric punch and an elastic half-space can be evaluated if the punch shape can be expressed by a polynomial function. However, there is a lack of investigation on how to calculate the pressure distribution when the punch shape cannot be expressed by a polynomial formula. This paper shows that with the help of a mathematical software, the pressure distribution can be evaluated directly from its corresponding analytical solutions. Using this technique, we evaluate the pressure distributions of a cosine punch and a hyperbolic cosine punch, and compare the results with Hertz’s solution.
Fracture Mechanics of Periodic Multilayers With Different Microstructural Scales and Moduli Contrast
Authors: Chen Linfeng , Pindera Marek-Jerzy
Published: July 2008

In a recent investigation of microstructural effects in finite periodic multilayers, we have shown that under Mode I loading, the crack-opening displacement approaches that of the same crack in an equivalent homogenized material as the microstructure comprised of alternating stiff and soft layers becomes increasingly finer. In contrast, Mode I stress intensity factor asymptotically converges to values that depend on the stiffness of the cracked layer. Preliminary calculation of Mode I strain energy release rate as a function of the microstructural refinement suggested that this may be a better fracture mechanics parameter for assessing fracture toughness of periodic layered media. Herein, we extend the above investigation by considering both Mode I and II loading to study the effect of layer modulus ratio on fracture mechanics parameters as a function of microstructural refinement. The previously introduced concept of partial homogenization of the microstructure sufficiently far from the crack is also pursued in order to gauge its efficiency in correctly capturing fracture mechanics parameters with a minimum of computational effort. The fracture mechanics parameters are shown to be influenced by the local microstructure to an extent that depends on the layer modulus mismatch. An accurate calculation of these parameters requires the retention of several layers adjacent to the affected cracked layer whose number depends on the modulus mismatch and loading mode.
Crack Initiation in Functionally Graded Materials Under Mixed Mode Loading: Experiments and Simulations
Authors: Oral Alpay , Lambros John , Anlas Gunay
Published: July 2008

In this work, quasistatic crack initiation under mixed mode loading in planar (two-dimensional plane stress) functionally graded materials (FGMs) is studied. The goal of this work is to directly compare experiments and simulations so as to evaluate the applicability of the maximum tangential stress (MTS) criterion in predicting crack kinking in FGMs. Initially, crack initiation in the homogeneous material, which forms the basis of our FGM—polyethylene—is studied. The (generalized) maximum tangential stress is applied through the use of finite elements to determine crack initiation angles in the same graded configurations studied experimentally. Computational results of fracture parameters (stress intensity factors and T-stress), and crack initiation angles are compared to experimental results and good agreement is obtained. It is seen that the MTS criterion is applicable to FGM crack initiation prediction if the inherent material gradient length scale is larger than the fracture process zone.
Delamination of Compressively Stressed Orthotropic Functionally Graded Material Coatings Under Thermal Loading
Authors: Yıldırım Bora , Yılmaz Suphi , Kadıoğlu Suat
Published: July 2008

The objective of this study is to investigate a particular type of crack problem in a layered structure consisting of a substrate, a bond coat, and an orthotropic functionally graded material coating. There is an internal crack in the orthotropic coating layer. It is parallel to the coating bond-coat interface and perpendicular to the material gradation of the coating. The position of the crack inside the coating is kept as a variable. Hence, the case of interface crack is also addressed. The top and bottom surfaces of the three layer structure are subjected to different temperatures and a two-dimensional steady-state temperature distribution develops. The case of compressively stressed coating is considered. Under this condition, buckling can occur, the crack can propagate, and the coating is prone to delamination. To predict the onset of delamination, one needs to know the fracture mechanics parameters, namely, Mode I and Mode II stress intensity factors and energy release rates. Hence, temperature distributions and fracture parameters are calculated by using finite element method and displacement correlation technique. Results of this study present the effects of boundary conditions, geometric parameters (crack length and crack position), and the type of gradation on fracture parameters.
On the Singularities in Fracture and Contact Mechanics
Authors: Erdogan Fazil , Ozturk Murat
Published: July 2008

Generally, the mixed boundary value problems in fracture and contact mechanics may be formulated in terms of integral equations. Through a careful asymptotic analysis of the kernels and by separating nonintegrable singular parts, the unique features of the unknown functions can then be recovered. In mechanics and potential theory, a characteristic feature of these singular kernels is the Cauchy singularity. In the absence of other nonintegrable kernels, Cauchy kernel would give a square-root or conventional singularity. On the other hand, if the kernels contain, in addition to a Cauchy singularity, other nonintegrable singular terms, the application of the complex function theory would show that the solution has a non-square-root or unconventional singularity. In this article, some typical examples from crack and contact mechanics demonstrating unique applications of such integral equations will be described. After some remarks on three-dimensional singularities, the key examples considered will include the generalized Cauchy kernels, membrane and sliding contact mechanics, coupled crack-contact problems, and crack and contact problems in graded materials.
A Noncanonically Shape Laminated Plate Subjected to Impact Loading: Theory and Experiment
Authors: Smetankina Natalia V. , Shupikov Alexander N. , Sotrikhin Sergei Yu. , Yareshchenko Vladimir G.
Published: July 2008

This paper suggests an analytical approach to investigating vibrations of a laminated plate with a noncanonical shape in plan view under impact with an impactor having a semispherical end. The approach suggested is based on the immersion method. The dynamic behavior of the plate is described by the first-order theory accounting for transverse shear strain, thickness reduction, and normal element rotation inertia in each layer. Impact has been analyzed for different points of the plate whose contour consists of straight lines and circle arcs. The theoretical results are consistent with experimental data obtained with the dynamic wide-range strain measurement technique.
Fracture Behavior of Thermally Aged Primary Coolant Piping Made of Cast Stainless Steel
Authors: Matsuzawa Hiroshi , Osaki Toru
Published: July 2008

The fracture toughness of primary coolant piping made of duplex cast stainless steel can be reduced by thermal aging, at the operating temperature of a light water reactor, to that of so-called low upper shelf reactor pressure vessel steel. Compared to reactor pressure vessels, the crack detection ability of ultrasonic testing of primary coolant piping is inferior. It is therefore important to establish a standard procedure to assess the structural integrity of thermally aged primary coolant piping. Crack extensions on the inner surface of scale model primary coolant piping were measured in four point bending tests. The piping had been aged to simulate 60 years of operation at 325°C. The crack extension forces at the fronts of cracks were evaluated based on the measured tensile properties of the pipe material. They coincided well with the material’s Jmat-Δ a measured using a ITCT specimen. The J controlled crack extension was verified. Because the primary coolant piping has small mean radius to thickness, it will not be flattened so much as usual thin piping. It means that the crack extension force is less than that of thin walled pipe if the hypothetical elastic stress at the crack is same. Another point in estimating crack extension force is the tensile properties of thermally aged cast stainless steel. Methods of predicting the tensile properties and fracture toughness of thermally aged cast stainless steel have not been proposed until recently. By applying the proposed properties, which were confirmed to be appropriate by the test results of this study, and a recent study on crack detection ability, a simple procedure for assessing the crack extension force of cracks in thermally aged primary coolant pipe was prepared. It will be applied to the evaluation of structural integrity analyses for aged Japanese nuclear power plants.
Alignment Rules for Non-Aligned Flaws at LEFM Evaluation Procedures
Authors: Hasegawa Kunio , Saito Koichi , Miyazaki Katsumasa
Published: July 2008

If multiple discrete flaws are detected that are in close proximity to one another, alignment rules are used to determine whether the flaws should be treated as non-aligned or as coplanar. Alignment rules are defined in many codes in the world. However, the criteria of the alignment rules are different in these codes. This paper introduces the current alignment rules and, in addition, interaction of stress intensity factors for non-aligned through wall flaws were calculated by FEM analysis. Also, brittle fracture experiments were performed on carbon steel plates with non-aligned two flaws. From these calculations and experiments, authors had found the effect of stress intensity factor interaction on fracture behavior for establishing a new alignment rule.
Sensitivity Analysis of the 9975 Packaging Thermal Response Using Factorial Design Methods
Authors: Gupta Narendra K. (Nick)
Published: July 2008

A method is presented for using the statistical design of experiment technique (2k Factorial Design) in the sensitivity analysis of the thermal (temperature) response of the 9975 radioactive material packaging where multiple thermal properties of the impact absorbing and fire insulating material Celotex and certain boundary conditions are subject to uncertainty. 2k Factorial Design method is very efficient in the use of available data and is capable of analyzing the impact of main variables (Factors) and their interactions on the component design. The 9975 design is based on detailed finite element (FE) analyses and extensive proof testing to meet the design requirements given in 10CFR71 [1]. However, the FE analyses use Celotex thermal properties that are based on published data and limited experiments. Celotex is an orthotropic material that is used in the home building industry. Its thermal properties are prone to variation due to manufacturing and fabrication processes, and due to long term environmental exposure. This paper will evaluate the sensitivity to variations in thermal conductivity of the Celotex, convection coefficient at the drum surface, and drum emissivity (herein called Factors) of the thermal response of 9975 packaging under Normal Conditions of Transport (NCT). Application of this methodology will ascertain the robustness of the 9975 design and it can lead to more specific and useful understanding of the effects of various Factors on 9975 performance.
Digital Speckle Photogrammetry Techniques Applied to Monitoring High Temperature Steam Pipes
Authors: Morris Andrew , Dear John , Kourmpetis Miltiadis , Fergusson Alexander , Puri Amit
Published: July 2008

Digital Speckle Photogrammetry (DSP) is proving to be a very useful technique for studying, in the laboratory, the distribution of strain about cracks and other defects in stressed specimens. This non-contact technique is able to resolve strain gradients over a small physical area, for example across a weld heat affected zone. The technique has good potential for use as a condition monitoring tool for a variety of components in electrical power stations. In addition this measurement technique could also be applied to monitor the integrity of critical components of newer generation plant, such as wind turbine generator blades. There are, however, many installation problems to be overcome. For example, there is the need to have regard for the hostile environment in steam generating plant and the demanding conditions to which wind turbine blades are subjected. Ideally the outputs from individual DSP sensors would be used for continuous remote monitoring. However, DSP measurements can also be useful each time the plant is shut down during a plant outage; which would be used to complement data from existing proven rugged monitoring methods. This paper describes ongoing work to develop a ruggedised digital speckle ‘sensor’ and associated image capture system.
Flange Joint Assembly Considerations for Critical Service Connections
Authors: Mueller Rod T.
Published: July 2008

Flange joints, especially in high temperature critical services, continue to represent one of process industry’s more significant challenges in achieving reliable leak-tight piping. The paper will provide guidelines to help the user categorize critical services where flange joints warrant particular attention in their assembly. Unlike welded piping joints, flange joints do not have specific assembly qualification procedures recognized by current piping or PV Codes. The paper presents an approach to flange assembly procedures and quality control to improve the reliability of critical service bolted joints. The importance of effective assembly crew training and qualifications will also be emphasized. While the techniques have evolved with petrochemical service applications, they would be of interest to other process industries where flange leakage is a key concern.
Influence of Laser Parameters on Residual Stress Field of AISI 304 Stainless Steel Induced by Laser Peening: A Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Ling Xiang , Peng Weiwei
Published: July 2008

The present paper established a non-linear elastic-plastic finite element method to predict the residual compressive stress distribution induced by Laser Peening (LP) in the AISI 304 stainless steel. The two dimensional FEA model considered the dynamic material properties at high strain rate (106/s) and the evaluation of loading conditions. Effects of laser power density, laser spot size, laser pulse duration, multiple LP processes and one/two-sided peening on the compressive stress field in the stainless steel were evaluated for the purpose of optimizing the process. Numerical results have a good agreement with the measurement values by X-ray diffraction method and also show that the magnitude of compressive stress induced by laser peening is greater than the tensile welding residual stress. So, laser peening is an effective method for protecting weldments against stress corrosion crack. The above results provide the basis for studying the mechanism on prevention of stress corrosion cracking in weld joint of type 304 stainless steel by laser peening.