bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the Treatment of Miracles in New Testament Scholarship
Authors: Crook Zeba
Published: September 2011

All introductory textbooks to the New Testament have something to say about the miracles and resurrection of Jesus, sometimes implicitly but more often explicitly. Not surprisingly, conservative textbooks take a conservative approach, rejecting outright the “naturalism” that governs other human and natural sciences. Yet even liberal textbooks stop short of assuming a fully naturalistic paradigm. This paper analyses the assumptions that serve as the foundation of both conservative and liberal treatments of the miraculous, and joins others in calling for the academic study of Christian Origins to situate itself more fully within the academic study of religion.

Tous les manuels d’introduction au Nouveau Testament ont quelque chose à dire sur les miracles et la résurrection de Jésus, parfois implicitement, mais le plus souvent de manière explicite. Comme on pouvait s'y attendre, les manuels conservateurs adoptent une approche conservatrice, en rejetant purement et simplement le « naturalisme » qui régit les autres sciences humaines et naturelles. Pourtant, même les manuels libéraux s'arrêtent avant d’assumer un paradigme entièrement naturaliste. Cet article analyse les hypothèses qui servent de base aux traitements conservateurs et libéraux du miraculeux, et s'unit à d’autres pour l’appel à une étude universitaire des origines chrétiennes afin de s'intégrer pleinement dans l’étude scientifique de la religion.
Varieties of neutrality
Authors: Beyer Jessica L. , Hofmann Stephanie C.
Published: September 2011

With the end of the Cold War, the neutral countries of Austria, Finland, Ireland and Sweden have grappled with the question of what their neutrality means in relation to membership in the European Union’s (EU) Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization’s (NATO) Partnership for Peace (PfP). The concept of neutrality has continued to inform the foreign and security policies of these four neutral EU members to varying degrees, but what explains these ‘varieties of neutrality’ and what does neutrality mean in relation to membership in the EU’s CSDP and NATO’s PfP? In this article, the primary focus is on neutrality as a norm. Understanding neutrality as a norm helps clarify how neutrality becomes embedded in national identity, what it shows about the interactions between domestic belief systems and international security conditions over time, and how the definition of a norm can be revised to allow for desired policy choices. To this end, the article asserts that there are four interrelated factors key to explaining how and why each state modified its interpretation of neutrality vis-à-vis international military institutions such as NATO, and the CSDP: the reason for and timing of institutionalizing neutrality (coerced or voluntary), the form of institutionalization ( de jure or de facto), political elite opinion and public opinion/belief.
Dentists’ preferences for diagnosis, management and referral of chronic oro-facial pain: Results from a national survey
Authors: Aggarwal Vishal R , Joughin Amy , Zakrzewska Joanna , Appelbe Priscilla , Tickle Martin
Published: September 2011

Aim:

To explore the diagnosis, treatment and referral patterns of chronic oro-facial pain patients by generalist primary care dentists (GDPs) in the UK.

Methods:

A cross-sectional survey was conducted using a non-stratified random sample of 500 GDPs who were selected from the General Dental Council register. A self-complete postal questionnaire with four hypothetical clinical case scenarios describing sub-types of chronic oro-facial pain (COFP) was used to investigate diagnosis, treatment and referral options of GDPs.

Results:

Two hundred and twenty (44%) GDPs responded. The majority correctly diagnosed temporomandibular disorder (TMD; 88%) and burning mouth syndrome (BMS; 92%). There was more variation in the diagnosis of the other cases related to persistent oro-facial pain. For TMD there was a clear preference for treatment with occlusal splint therapy, and referral to a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) specialist. The BMS scenario showed drug therapy and referral to an oral medicine specialist to be most popular. The chronic oro-facial pain cases had greater variation in management and choice of psychotherapy was related to duration of pain symptoms.

Conclusions:

The greater variation in responses to scenarios based on patients with chronic oro-facial pain may reflect the difficulty clinicians face in diagnosing and treating this condition. Management appears to follow a biomedical model and most clinicians chose to refer patients for treatment. There are few specialist services to cater for such referrals, indicating a need to train primary care practitioners in management of chronic COFP, along with the establishment of evidence-based guidelines.
Apparently, We Disappeared
Authors: Richerme Lauren Kapalka
Published: September 2011

An examination of the 2005–2010 online archives of major American network news stations and newspapers reveals a troubling picture for music education. News stories frequently mention the disappearance of music education. When the media mention the existence of music education, they often promote it as a means of raising standardized test scores or “helping” troubled students. In contrast, the facts show that schools continue to value music education. Additionally, while music education may aid brain development, the link between music education and improved test scores remains inconclusive. Music educators should advocate for their programs using a variety of rationales as well as clear, concise language that evokes positive frames. Music educators should also consider focusing on exchanges in addition to advocacy.
Strategies for Using Repetition as a Powerful Teaching Tool
Authors: Saville Kirt
Published: September 2011

Brain research indicates that repetition is of vital importance in the learning process. Repetition is an especially useful tool in the area of music education. The success of repetition can be enhanced by accurate and timely feedback. From “simple repetition” to “repetition with the addition or subtraction of degrees of freedom,” there are many forms of repetition that can be successfully adapted to music education. Descriptions of each form of repetition are provided, along with accompanying rehearsal strategies that can be implemented in the classroom. Music teachers can avoid the pitfalls of boredom and mindless repetition by constantly shifting teaching strategies and including new goals and framing techniques. Using these strategies wisely, music educators can provide meaningful, refreshed, and powerful teaching and learning opportunities for both themselves and their students.
I Don’t Need a Million-Dollar Grant—$5,000 Will Do!
Authors: Keast Dan A.
Published: September 2011

Music teachers often need to be creative in finding monies for programs that go beyond the basics and reach more students. Grant-writing skills can bring both funding and other types of donations to enhance music programs. Researching the funding sources, looking at successful proposals, carefully following directions, seeking the opinions of others, and persistence can help music educators obtain grants for a variety of projects in their schools and communities.
The Elephant in the Room
Authors: Williams David A.
Published: September 2011

Practically all teenagers find pleasure in music, yet the majority are not involved in traditional school music ensembles. College requirements, the quest for high grade point averages, scheduling conflicts, uncooperative counselors, block schedules, students with too many competing interests, or the need to work may limit participation in music classes. While there is little music teachers can do to overcome many of these hurdles, the elephant in the room is the very model we use for music education in the schools. The large performance ensemble was established as the model for music education during the early 1900s and has remained relatively unchanged for a century. Is this model a significant part of what is causing so few students to enroll in school music classes? Recommendations are presented that must be considered as the profession moves forward.
Beyond “Line by Line”
Authors: Musco Ann Marie
Published: September 2011

A variety of excellent method books aim to help student musicians develop skills in music reading and instrumental technique, but sometimes the best approach is not simply to move ahead line by line through the book. Rather, teachers will find it beneficial to consider apposite strategies to be used before, during, and after rehearsing a line so that skills and knowledge are mastered, retained, and applied in performances of subsequent lines in the book as well as other repertoire. This article proposes a sequence of instruction to enable good sight-reading, facilitate fluent performance, and promote transfer of learning. The sequence involves five steps: (1) Prepare: through sound-before-sight instruction, students develop instrumental skills and aural readiness for the task at hand. (2) Present: the teacher introduces the notated musical symbol in a memorable, meaningful way. (3) Practice: an array of rehearsal strategies are used to develop accurate, confident performances. (4) Persist: through creative repetition, performance skills are solidified. (5) Proceed: by advancing to a related line in the book, students are challenged to transfer learned skills and concepts. The instructional sequencing and rehearsal strategies suggested in this article were influenced by Edwin Gordon and Madeline Hunter as well as by research in motor skills learning. The five-step model and presented strategies are also relevant to learning ensemble literature.
Transport properties of multi-layer fabric based on electrospun nanofiber mats as a breathable barrier textile material
Authors: Bagherzadeh Roohollah , Latifi Masoud , Najar Saeed Shaikhzadeh , Tehran Mohammad Amani , Gorji Mohsen , Kong Lingxue
Published: September 2011

Layered fabric systems with an electrospun nanofiber web layered onto a sandwich of woven fabric were developed to examine the feasibility of developing breathable barrier textile materials. Some parameters of nanofiber mats, including the time of electrospinning and the polymer solution concentration, were designed to change and barrier properties of specimens were compared. Air permeability, water vapor transmission, and water repellency (Bundesmann and hydrostatic pressure tests) were assessed as indications of comfort and barrier performance of different samples. These performances of layered nanofiber fabrics were compared with a well-known water repellent breathable multi-layered fabric (Gortex).

Multi-layered electrospun nanofiber mats equipped fabric (MENMEF) showed better performance in windproof property than Gortex fabric. Also, water vapor permeability of MENMEF was in a range of normal woven sport and work clothing. Comparisons of barrier properties of MENMEF and the currently available PTFE coated materials showed that, those properties could be achieved by layered fabric systems with electrospun nanofiber mats.
The Road to Collective Debt in Rural China
Authors: Zhou Xueguang
Published: September 2011

Focusing on the episodes of the government’s Paved Road to Every Village (PREV) project in an agricultural township in northern China, this article examines two research issues: First, the role of state policies, government bureaucracies, and village cadres in the provision of public goods, especially the unintended consequences that led to huge collective debts and the erosion of the collective basis of governance and second, the role of local institutions and social relations in resource mobilization, problem solving, and response to crises, especially in the aftermath of the PREV project. The episodes provide an occasion to rethink the role of governments in economic development and the lessons learned from, to borrow an expression by James Scott, “seeing like a state.”
Dementia research – what do different public groups want? A survey by the Scottish Dementia Clinical Research Network
Authors: Law Emma , Starr John M. , Connelly Peter John
Published: September 2011

Scotland's National Dementia Strategy calls for people with dementia and their carers to give voice to what they see as the priorities for dementia research. We sent questionnaires on dementia research priorities, locus and type of research, desired outcome measures and willingness to volunteer, to two groups of dementia research stakeholders: (1) people with dementia and their carers who may or may not be participating in research and (2) those who are directly participating in research. We also made the questionnaire available on a national dementia research website. Five hundred and fourteen responses were received. The top four topics rated by importance were identical across all three groups of respondents: early detection (38.1%), drug trials (14.2%), studies on people living at home (9.7%) and study of carers (6.0%). The data can help shape the dementia research agenda, but more information needs to be made available to the public about other potential research areas.
A Community-Based Diabetes Prevention Program
Authors: Kramer M. Kaye , McWilliams Janis R. , Chen Hsiang-Yu , Siminerio Linda M.
Published: September 2011

Purpose

With growing numbers of people at risk for diabetes and cardiovascular disease, diabetes educators report increasing referrals for intervention in prevention of these conditions. Diabetes educators have expertise in diabetes self-management education; however, they are generally not prepared for delivery of chronic disease primary prevention. The purpose of this project was to determine if individuals at risk for diabetes who participate in an intervention delivered by trained diabetes educators in existing diabetes self-management education community-based programs can reduce risk factors for diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Methods

Diabetes educators in 3 outpatient-hospital programs (urban, suburban, and rural) received training and support for implementation of the Group Lifestyle Balance program, an adaptation of the Diabetes Prevention Program lifestyle intervention, from the Diabetes Prevention Support Center of the University of Pittsburgh. Adults with prediabetes and/or the metabolic syndrome were eligible to enroll in the program with physician referral. With use of existing diabetes educator networks, recruitment was completed via on-site physician in-services, informative letters, and e-mail contact as well as participant-directed newspaper advertisement.

Results

Eighty-one participants enrolled in the study (71 women, 10 men). Mean overall weight loss was 11.3 lb (5.1%, P < .001); in addition, significant decreases were noted in fasting plasma glucose, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood pressure.

Conclusions

These results suggest that the Group Lifestyle Balance program delivered by diabetes educators was successful in reducing risk for diabetes and cardiovascular disease in high-risk individuals. Furthermore, diabetes educators, already integrated within the existing health care system, provide yet another resource for delivery of primary prevention programs in the community.
Self-regulation Theory and the Multigenerational Legacy of Diabetes
Authors: Scollan-Koliopoulos Melissa , Walker Elizabeth A. , Rapp Kenneth J.
Published: September 2011

The purpose of this study was to lend further support to the practice-based theory multigenerational legacies of diabetes (MGLDM). The hypothesis that perceptions of diabetes differ depending upon self-reported family history of diabetes was tested. Surveys assessing illness representation were administered by mail to adults with type 2 diabetes who attended diabetes education programs in a Northern Metropolitan East Coast location. Perceptions of diabetes were significantly different between those who remember a family member having diabetes and those who do not. Components of the commonsense model that differ in this sample were personal control, treatment control, emotional representations, and illness coherence (understanding), which were associated with dietary and monitoring adherence. Exploring commonsense models of diabetes during education sessions may help identify perceptions that may be shaped by the experiences of family members.
Comprehensive Diabetes Management Program for Poorly Controlled Hispanic Type 2 Patients at a Community Health Center
Authors: Welch Garry , Allen Nancy A. , Zagarins Sofija E. , Stamp Kelly D. , Bursell Sven-Erik , Kedziora Richard J.
Published: September 2011

Technology and improved care coordination models can help diabetes educators and providers meet national care standards and provide culturally sensitive diabetes education that may improve diabetes outcomes. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the clinical usefulness of a nurse-led diabetes care program (Comprehensive Diabetes Management Program, CDMP) for poorly controlled Hispanic type 2 diabetes (T2DM) patients in an urban community health center setting. Patients were randomized to the intervention condition (IC; n = 21) or an attention control condition (AC; n = 18). IC and AC conditions were compared on rates of adherence to national clinical practice guidelines (blood glucose, blood pressure, foot exam, eye exam), and levels of diabetes distress, depression, and treatment satisfaction. IC patients had a significant improvement in A1C from baseline to 12-month follow-up compared with AC (−1.6% ± 1.4% versus −0.6% ± 1.1%; P = .01). The proportion of IC patients meeting clinical goals at follow-up tended to be higher than AC for A1c (IC = 45%; AC = 28%), systolic blood pressure (IC = 55%; AC = 28%), eye screening (IC = 91%; AC = 78%), and foot screening, (IC = 86%; AC = 72%). Diabetes distress and treatment satisfaction also showed greater improvement for IC than AC ( P = .05 and P = .06, respectively), with no differences for depression. The CDMP intervention was more effective than an attention control condition in helping patients meet evidence-based guidelines for diabetes care.
Head and Neck Manifestations of Spontaneous Pneumomediastinum
Authors: Huon Leh‐Kiong , Chang Yen‐Liang , Wang Pa‐Chun , Chen Po‐Yueh
Published: September 2011

Objective

Spontaneous pneumomediastinum (SPM) is a rare disease entity that often manifests localized signs in the head and neck region. The thoracic features of SPM have been well described; however, there is a paucity of information on its otolaryngological characteristics. The authors describe the clinical management among SPM patients having primarily head and neck symptoms.

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

Cathay General Hospital, Taiwan.

Results

The study included 13 men and 1 woman, with a mean age of 18.8 years (range, 14‐29 years). The primary initial symptoms were neck swelling (11), neck pain (10), and odynophagia (9). Neck soft tissue and chest radiography was diagnostic of SPM in all patients. Conservative treatment consisted of bed rest and analgesics, which led to rapid resolution of SPM.

Conclusions

SPM is a benign entity that responds well to conservative treatment. The results of our investigation highlight the importance of an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) clinical examination as a guide for diagnosing SPM because of the high percentage of ENT manifestations in the initial clinical profiles. Secondary causes of SPM must be ruled out to avoid an unfavorable outcome.
In Vivo Vascularity Alterations in Repaired Rotator Cuffs Determined by Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound
Authors: Funakoshi Tadanao , Iwasaki Norimasa , Kamishima Tamotsu , Nishida Mutsumi , Ito Yoichi , Nishida Kinya , Motomiya Makoto , Suenaga Naoki , Minami Akio
Published: September 2011

Background: The alterations in blood flow after rotator cuff repair remain unclear. Visualization of vascular patterns could clarify basic and clinical investigations.

Purpose: To assess longitudinal blood flow inside the repaired cuff and the surrounding tissue after rotator cuff repair, using contrast-enhanced ultrasonography.

Study Design: Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods: Fifteen patients (7 men and 8 women; mean age, 65.0 ± 9.8 years) consented to participate. The patients underwent an ultrasound scan before and 1, 2, and 3 months after surgery. Enhanced ultrasound images were recorded for 1 minute after intravenous injection of contrast reagent. Four regions of interest inside the cuff and 2 regions in the anchor hole and subacromial bursa were superimposed on the obtained images. Calculated areas under the time-intensity curves were expressed in acoustic units (AU).

Results: We found area-dependent differences in patterns of alteration and magnitude of blood flow inside the repaired cuff and peritendinous tissues. Vascularity in the articular distal and bursal distal region of the repaired cuff at 1 month postoperatively increased significantly compared with that at the preoperative baseline (76 vs 5 AU, P = .0037; 92 vs 7 AU, P = .043). The vascularity peaked at 1 month after surgery in the bursal area within the cuff but at 2 months in the articular area. The vascularity in the articular proximal region of the repaired cuff was significantly lower than that in the bursal proximal ( P = .0046), bursal distal ( P = .0183), and articular distal regions ( P = .0163) 1 month after surgery.

Conclusion: Enhancement patterns in intratendinous tissue increased at 1 or 2 months postoperatively and decreased at 3 months. We found area-dependent differences in enhancement patterns inside the repaired cuff and peritendinous tissue.

Clinical Relevance: Visualization of vascularization using contrast-enhanced ultrasound could help in deciding on an appropriate repair technique or on the form of postoperative rehabilitation after rotator cuff repair.
Influence of calcium carbonate on RTM and RTM light processing and properties of molded composites
Authors: Garay André C. , Heck Vicente , Zattera Ademir J. , Souza Jeferson A. , Amico Sandro C.
Published: September 2011

In the RTM light composite manufacturing process, inorganic fillers are commonly added to the resin to reduce cost and alter the final composite properties, especially rigidity, even though they also adversely affect processability. The aim of this study is to evaluate resin characteristics, reinforcement permeability, and mechanical properties of the composite and analyze the detrimental effects when a variable amount of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) is added to the resin. The addition of calcium carbonate increased the viscosity and gel time of the resin and considerably decreased the permeability of the reinforcement and therefore the expected process productivity. Besides, Barcol hardness, short-beam strength, and elastic modulus increased for higher CaCO3 content, whereas Izod impact, flexural, and tensile strengths decreased. Besides, the coarser CaCO3 filler particles managed to penetrate only partially into the fiber-rich layer of the combination mat used, which comprised of a PP flow media core and glass fibers at the surface.
Interfacial shear strength and tensile properties of injection-molded, short- and long-glass fiber-reinforced polyamide 6,6 composites
Authors: Hassan Aziz , Yahya R. , Rafiq M.I.M. , Hussin A. , Sheikh M.R.K. , Hornsby P.R.
Published: September 2011

Injection-molded short- and long-glass fiber/polyamide 6,6 composites were subjected to tensile tests. To measure the effectiveness of the fibers in reinforcing the composites, a computational approach was employed to compute the fiber–matrix ISS, orientation factor, reinforcement efficiency, tensile-, and fiber length-related properties. Although the LFCs showed great improvement in fiber characteristics compared to the SFCs, enhancement in tensile properties was small, which is believed to be due to the larger fiber diameter. Kelly–Tyson model provides good approximation for the computation of ISS and tensile-related properties.
Retrofitting of shear damaged RC beams using diagonal CFRP strips
Authors: Altin Sinan , Anil Özgür , Ocakli R Özgür , Kopraman Yağmur
Published: September 2011

The results of an experimental investigation for the retrofitting of shear-damaged RC beams using diagonal CFRP strips are presented in this article. The experimental study consisted of seven shear-deficient, T-cross-sectioned, ½-scale, simply supported beam specimens. One beam is used as the reference specimen. The remaining six specimens are tested in two stages. At the first stage, specimens are shear damaged severely and the shear-damaged RC beams are retrofitted using diagonal CFRP strips by wrapping them around the beam in the shape of a ‘U’. Then, retrofitted beams are tested to failure. In this study, 50 mm wide CFRP strips are used with three different spacings such as sf = 125, 150, and 200 mm. One of the two specimens with the same spacing is tested with anchorages at the ends of the CFRP strips. Although the strips without anchorages improved the shear strength of the shear-damaged beam, they could not prevent the shear failure. Shear-damaged specimens that are retrofitted with anchoraged CFRP strips showed to improve the shear strength, and ductile flexural behavior was observed in them. When the CFRP strains of the strips with and without anchorages are compared, maximum strains at anchoraged strips are approximately 1.55 times larger than those without anchorages. Calculated shear load carrying capacity of the specimens, according to ACI 440 and FIB regulations, are approximately 2% larger than the experimental one.
Evaluation and testing of mechanical properties of wood plastic composite
Authors: Bhaskar Jitendra , Haq Shamsul , Yadaw SB
Published: September 2011

The wood plastic composites (WPCs) are made using matrices of recycled polypropylene with sawdust (pine wood flour) as filler. Corresponding WPCs are also made using virgin plastics (vPP, virgin polypropylene) for comparison with the recycled plastic-based composites. All varieties of these WPCs are made through melt compounding and injection molding with varying formulations based on the plastic type (PP, polypropylene), plastic form (recycled and virgin), wood flour content, and addition of maleated polypropylene-coupling agent. The melt flow index and mechanical properties of WPCs are investigated. The results clearly show that recycled PP (rPP) can be successfully used to produce stable and strong WPCs. Properties and performances of WPC made of rPP are comparable to WPC made of wood and vPP. Therefore, WPCs based on both rPP and vPP matrices have potential to be used as construction materials with wood flour.
Vibration of rotating elastic connection disc
Authors: He L , Pei Y-C , Tan H , Jiang S
Published: September 2011

Vibration of a rotating elastic connection disc subjected to a transmitted torque is investigated by including the initial unstressed transverse runout of the disc, the axial displacement, and deflection angles between the inner and outer clamped edges due to machining and installation errors in real discs. The governing equation of the connection disc is discretized by Galerkin's method, and natural frequency, dynamic stability, resonance condition, and steady-state deflections are calculated. Excluding the parameters causing the dynamic instability and system resonance, an available parameter region in the parameter plane of the disc rotating speed – the transmitted torque is presented for the engineering application. Amplitudes of the steady-state deflections induced by the initial transverse runout, the prescribed axial displacement, and deflection angles are obtained for each disc mode, and effects of the disc rotating speed and the transmitted torque on them are discussed.
A study of function-based diagnosis strategy and testability analysis for a system
Authors: Tsai Y-T , Hsu Y-Y
Published: September 2011

A good diagnostic policy can not only shorten the detection time of faults but also improve the effectiveness of system maintenance. This paper presents a function-based diagnosis strategy that provides a helpful methodology for fault identification. The diagnosis trees of the systems are constructed based on a functional block diagram consisting of function elements (FEs) and test points (TPs). The correlations between the FEs and the TPs are first analysed according to system information flows. Two weighted indexes for fault detection and fault isolation are defined to determine the priority of these TPs in testing. Several parameters related to diagnostic ability are also introduced to provide an evaluated approach for system testability. The diagnostic steps and costs between traditional sequential testing and the function-based diagnosing are compared. The study results may be useful in planning diagnosis actions and testability design for a system. A hydraulic system is used as an example in order to depict the proposed methods.
Finite element analysis and optimization of spherical motion burnishing of low-alloy steel
Authors: Maximov J T , Duncheva G V
Published: September 2011

A reliable finite element modelling (FEM) approach to the spherical motion burnishing (SMB) process is developed with a view to gaining a fundamental understanding of the process and its optimization. SMB is a patented method for mechanical surface treatment of external cylindrical faces aimed at the enhancement of the fatigue life of the metallic component as well as its roughness, micro-hardness, depth hardening, wear, and corrosion resistance. A special feature of SMB is its kinematics: the tool motion is a superposition of a spherical movement and a rectilinear translation with respect to the workpiece. In order to decrease the FEM problem size, an approximated kinematic theory for the SMB is developed. In accordance with this theory the tool motion is approximated with a series of planar movements. As a result, a plane strain SMB FEM model is developed. The initial roughness is modelled in order to to achieve a more realistic representation of the workpiece geometry. To establish the flow stress and sliding friction coefficient, a combined approach is developed which contains mechanical tests, sensitivity FEM analysis, and inverse FE analysis of the corresponding pushing process. A planned numerical experiment is carried out on the basis of the created SMB FEM model. Six regression models of the treated layer characteristics are obtained and analysed on the basis of the FEM simulations. The FEM results are evaluated and compared to the experimental ones and their validity is proved. Finally, the regression models are used as objective functions in a multi-objective optimization problem formulation of the SMB process. As a result, the optimal combination of the governing SMB parameters is established.
Numerical simulation of unsteady tip clearance flow in an isolated axial compressor rotor blades row
Authors: Taghavi-Zenouz R , Eslami S
Published: September 2011

Three-dimensional unsteady numerical simulations were carried out to analyse tip clearance flow in a low-speed isolated axial compressor rotor blades row. A flow solver has been used for the current study utilizing the large eddy simulation (LES) technique. Periodic tip leakage flow and its propagation trajectories were simulated in detail. A number of pseudo pressure transducers were imposed on the pressure side of the blade for detection of unsteady surface pressures to provide a calculation of tip leakage flow frequencies. Two different sizes of tip clearance were considered for simulations and analyses. Non-dimensional frequencies of the tip leakage flow were calculated and final results were compared to those of existing numerical and experimental data. Final results demonstrated that in contrast to the Reynolds averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) model, the LES method shows considerable dependency of frequency characteristics of the tip leakage flow to the gap size and can detect different frequency spectrums along the blade surface. All the results obtained through the current numerical approach were in close agreement with those of existing experimental data.
Design and application of a perforated panel system to a household refrigerator for cooling fan noise reduction
Authors: Seo J-Y , Kim W-J , Won J-S
Published: September 2011

This article presents a new approach to reduce cooling fan noise of a household refrigerator. A noise reduction strategy employing a perforated panel system is suggested, and the design of the perforated panel system is optimized via experimental analyses. Degradation of cooling performance owing to the introduction of the perforated panel system is addressed and a novel method to guarantee overall acoustic absorption and cooling performance is proposed. Experimental study is conducted to design and evaluate the proposed system as a feasible solution for noise reduction.
Three-dimensional elasticity analysis of functionally graded rotating cylinders with variable thickness profile
Authors: Ghafoori E , Asghari M
Published: September 2011

A three-dimensional elasticity solution for the analysis of functionally graded rotating cylinders with variable thickness profile is proposed. The axisymmetric structure has been divided in several divisions in the radial direction. Constant mechanical properties and thickness profile are assumed within each division. The solution is considered for four different thickness profiles, namely constant, linear, concave, and convex. It is shown that the linear, concave, and convex thickness profiles have smaller stress values compared to a constant thickness profile. The effects of various grading indices as well as different boundary conditions, namely solid, free–free hollow and fixed–free hollow structures are discussed. A series of numerical results using zirconia as outer surface ceramic and aluminium as inner surface metal are presented. Parametric study has then been carried out to give a better understanding of how different stress, strain, and displacement components change along radial and axial directions of the rotating structures. Numerical results show that for a given grading index, the structures with a concave thickness profile have the smaller circumferential strain and stress compared to other thickness profiles.
Development of a two-degree-of-freedom piezoelectric motor using single plate vibrator
Authors: Cheng G-M , Guo K , Zeng P , Sun Y-M
Published: September 2011

A two-degree-of-freedom piezoelectric motor using only one piezoelectric ceramic was proposed based on two vibration modes (B32 and B23) of a rectangular plate piezoelectric vibrator. The working principle was elaborated. Analytical and numerical models were established in order to design the piezoelectric vibrator. Calculations with finite element method were carried out using ANSYS software to validate the analytical models and demonstrate the elliptical trajectory of the four contact points between the stator and the sphere. Experimental result on the prototype shows that the numerical result including resonance frequency and elliptical motion of the motor indicate good agreement with the experimental one. The rotation speed around an axial along the direction of length of the rectangular piezoelectric vibrator of the motor is 37.7 r/min under the drive voltage 90 V and excitation frequency 44 kHz.
Prediction of voltage loss on electrical connections for aluminium smelter reduction cells
Authors: Ding K , Molenaar D , Kapoor A
Published: September 2011

Aluminium smelter reduction cells typically operate at 4.5 V and 100–400 kA DC. The voltage loss associated with electrical conductors and connections is approximately 0.4 V, which equates to 10 per cent of the total electricity consumed in the reduction cell. It is estimated that process improvements of 5 MW per plant (50 000 t CO2e pa for coal based electricity) are possible through optimization of the stub to carbon (STC) contact interfaces within the anode assembly. The objective of this study is to develop a finite element analysis (FEA) model to predict the voltage loss through the STC contact interfaces as a function of electrical contact resistance (ECR) and thus evaluate the effect of this ECR on cell operation. ECR is affected by the pressure and temperature at the STC contact surfaces and is potentially sensitive to a change in stub diameter or thermal properties of cover material. In this article, a sequentially coupled thermo-mechanical-electrical FEA has been developed to model the process of casting in a typical anode assembly and its subsequent usage in the reduction cell. The ECR and its dependence on temperature and contact pressure have been derived from data available in the public domain. The FEA results are presented and discussed.
Reconstruction synthesis for the unexplained feature of the lunar subsystem of Antikythera mechanism
Authors: Yan H-S , Lin J-L
Published: September 2011

Antikythera mechanism, dateable around to the first century BC, is the oldest known geared mechanism treated as an astronomical computer through the decoding of modern technology. In accordance with the decoded exterior dials and their functions, the interior mechanism was confirmed to consist of five corresponding subsystems. However, some unexplained problems still exist among these subsystems, such as the lunar subsystem, in which the visible pentagonal mark is positioned on the centre of a gear, demonstrating the lunar anomaly motion. From the viewpoint of mechanical design, this strange evidence implies the existence of a shaft with a complex structure, i.e. the coaxial gears with different rates. Also, it affects strongly the identifications of links and even the positions of gears. In order to provide other possible concepts to clarify this problem, this study synthesizes all feasible reconstruction designs through a systematic procedure. Through the study of historical literature, astronomical theories and existing designs, design constraints which are indispensible for the assignments of links and joints are concluded. Then, according to the concepts of generalization and specialization of mechanism, 13 feasible designs which are consistent with the theories and techniques of the subject’s time period, including the one by Freeth et al. are synthesized. Once new discoveries about the unexplained problem appear in the future, these feasible designs can be the corresponding answer.
Bayesian age modelling applied to palaeoflood geochronologies and the investigation of Holocene flood magnitude and frequency
Authors: Thorndycraft V.R. , Benito G. , Sánchez-Moya Y. , Sopeña A.
Published: September 2011

A new methodology, based on Bayesian age modelling, is presented for the analysis of palaeoflood geochronologies and palaeodischarge data. Bayesian age models were developed, using the Oxcal radiocarbon calibration software, for the geochronologies of three palaeoflood sites in Spain, namely the Gaudalentín, Tagus and Llobregat rivers in SE, Central and NE Spain, respectively. The age–depth plots resulting from the applied Sequence models enabled the construction of flood magnitude-frequency plots through substitution of the original stratigraphic depth data with the associated minimum discharge quantified by hydraulic modelling. The age models presented demonstrate that a Bayesian approach for analyzing Holocene flood magnitude and frequency prevents the loss of geomorphic and hydrologic information inherent in radiocarbon frequency methods previously used in the analysis of palaeoflood data sets. Frequency approaches do not allow proper consideration of flood magnitude information and only incorporate those geomorphic units specifically dated. The Bayesian age models calculate modeled ages for undated units as well, so that all the individual flood events identified in the field can be incorporated and visualized in the data output. The palaeoflood age models therefore illustrate: (1) the age range for clusters of palaeoflood events; (2) the number of events within each flood cluster, with an age estimate and palaeodischarge value for each event; and (3) the potential impact of discharge censoring on the record, for example the role of accommodation space infilling on the quantification of palaeodischarge. The methodology and results are briefly discussed within the wider context of fluvial palaeohydrology, in particular: (1) the role of Bayesian modelling in future fluvial palaeohydrology research; and (2) the value of bedrock gorge sites for investigating past flood–climate relationships, given the problems of deciphering allogenic and autogenic drivers in alluvial sedimentary records.
Late-Holocene successional dynamics in a transitional forest of west-central Mexico
Authors: Figueroa-Rangel Blanca L. , Willis Kathy J. , Olvera-Vargas Miguel
Published: September 2011

The determination of past successional stages, as well as the factors triggering succession, is crucial for the understanding of forest dynamics and the design of current and future management and conservation strategies. Shifts between successional stages can take decades or even centuries to occur because of tree longevity; therefore palaeoecological studies are important tools for their study. The present research involved the palaeoreconstruction of a transitional forest dominated by Pinus-Carpinus-Quercus in west-central Mexico over the last ~1230 years. The proxies employed include fossil pollen, microscopic fossil charcoal, magnetic susceptibility and organic matter content evaluated by multivariate techniques. The findings reveal that an initial cloud forest stage developed from 1230 to 1050 cal. yr BP. This stage was then interrupted for ~400 years (1050–690 cal. yr BP) when a regional climate change event decreased the number of cloud forest taxa and increased herbaceous taxa including Asteraceae, Poaceae, Plantago and Zea. The cloud forest stage recovered at 690 cal. yr BP and the community has persisted to the present time, yet this stage is dominated by human-induced taxa such as Pinus and Acacia. Whilst the dynamics of individual taxa were related to forest fires and soil erosion, changes between community types were related to an interval of regional climate change (greater aridity) that occurred between 1050 and 690 cal. yr BP. Results from this study indicate that, in order to preserve the cloud forest stage, human disturbances such as logging and agriculture should be excluded; a conservation strategy established in the transitional forest in recent years.
Wave propagation in one-dimensional waveguides for damage characterization
Authors: Pau Annamaria , Vestroni Fabrizio
Published: September 2011

The waveguide geometry of numerous structures used in civil and mechanical engineering can be exploited for the use of guided waves in damage detection. The present study examines the response of a bar to an impulsive force along its axis and points out the differences in the damaged bar. Relationships between the damage parameters and the amplitude and time-delay of the reflected and transmitted waves are exploited to formulate a damage characterization procedure. This procedure is analytically and experimentally tested in different damage configurations. The results are compared to those obtained from conventional methods based on frequency variations.
Work Worth Doing
Authors: Conklin Thomas A.
Published: September 2011

What is the meaning of our work? How do we find the work that is ours, work that is worth doing for us as individuals? This study attempted to answer these questions in understanding the experience of discovering one’s calling. It was undertaken with a group of professionals who work in areas serving the natural environment and used phenomenology to penetrate and apprehend the six themes of their experience. This article helps understand the meaning of their calling in its experiential components and offers support for its relevance in organizational life. Pseudonyms have been employed in this writing.
Encouraging Trade at the Boundary of Organizational Culture and Institutional Theory
Authors: Aten Kathryn , Howard-Grenville Jennifer
Published: September 2011

In this essay, we reflect on the contributions to this dialogue. We focus on highlighting opportunities for deepening our understanding of cultural phenomena and institutions through work on the border between the two theories. Two avenues are promising: deepening our understandings of process in order to better explain cultural and institutional dynamics and attending to (surprising) levels of analysis such as local institutions and global cultures. The contributors to this dialogue have provided examples of the potential benefits gained through work at the borders of organizational culture and institutional theory, and in so doing have begun to answer some of the questions that instigated this exchange, suggesting paths forward, and we hope, instigating exchange.
Sickness Absenteeism Rate in Iranian Schools During the 2009 Epidemic of Type A Influenza
Authors: Pourabbasi Ata , Shirvani Mahbubeh Ebrahimnegad , Khashayar Patricia
Published: September 2011

Influenza pandemic was a global event in 2009 and intraschool transmission was its main spread method. The present study was designed to evaluate the absenteeism rate during the type A influenza epidemic. Four hundred and eight students from both a guidance school and high school in the Iranian capital were recruited in this retrospective study. The number of days of absenteeism, since the beginning of the school year until the end of the epidemic was recorded. Two hundred and thirteen students missed school during the disease epidemic because of related causes. In other words, 581 person day absences were reported during this period. The influenza pandemic has led to an increase in the absenteeism rate and may negatively affect the academic performance of the students. Teaching precautionary measures is an effective tool in reducing the number of days of sickness.
Endotoxin and Particle Concentrations in Subsidized Households with Asthmatic Children in Philadelphia: A Pilot Study
Authors: Leavey A. , Perez H.R. , Burstyn I.
Published: September 2011

This study seeks to identify the home and behavior characteristics that may affect indoor exposures to endotoxin and particles in subsidized housing of asthmatic children in Philadelphia, PA. Sixty seven endotoxin samples were collected from children’s usual sleeping surfaces, and 97 airborne indoor particle measurements were made. The geometric mean (GM) endotoxin concentration was 1933 EUm−2; the total particle count (≥0.3 µm) was 9.72 × 107 (ptm−3). Between-home variability of endotoxin measurements (geometric standard deviation, GSD, 6.3) was greater than that of particle counts (GSD 2.2-3.2). Endotoxin concentrations were negatively associated with the presence of upholstered furniture and stuffed toys, evidence of mold and increased ventilation in the home. The smoking status of the household was a significant determinant of concentrations of particles smaller than 2.0 µm. None of these determinants explained more than 11% of exposure variability. Endotoxin and particle concentrations were not correlated. Direct measurement of contaminants of interest remains the best option for indoor air quality investigations in the households surveyed.