bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Components of Value and Representation in Coalition Formation
Authors: Krause Roger M. , Druckman Daniel , Rozelle Richard , Mahoney Robert
Published: July 2017

This paper presents an extension of Leiserson's formulation of the process by which actors balance value and power considerations in coalition formation. First, two components of value are considered (e.g., ideology and interests). The two component version of the model is evaluated by data provided by participants in a simulated interreligious decision-making council. Estimates for model parameters are provided and the amount of variance accounted for by various combinations of parameters is determined by multiple regression techniques. The formalization is then generalized to the case of n-components of value. A further extension takes account of the conflict between representational role obligations and personal values. Finally, various elaborations of the model are discussed including the consideration of changes that occur through time in the weighting (balancing) process.
Linguistic Impediments to Cross-Cultural Communications: Chinese Hassles with the Hypothetical
Authors: Bloom Alfred
Published: July 2017

This paper attempts to reach a preliminary conclusion, based on developmental and cross-cultural research re the nature of the impact the distinct lexical divisions and relational structures of a language are likely to have on the thought processes of its native speakers and, thereby, re the nature of the barriers to cross-cultural communication and conflict resolution which are likely to result from the fact that participants in such processes come from distinct linguistic backgrounds. The paper argues that such barriers take the form of differences in the conscious organization of experience and draws on two examples from a comparative study of English and Chinese native speakers in further support of this view.
Reward Policies That Support Entrepreneurship
Authors: Balkin David B. , Logan James W.
Published: July 2017

The successful entrepreneurship depends on highly motivated employees who think and behave as risk takers and innovators. In such firms reward policies must motivate employees to think and behave as entrepreneurs. Reward policies that pay employees for behaviors that are effective in bureaucratic organizations may actually hamper appropriate performance in an entrepreneurship. For example, a seniority-based pay structure may be effective in a unionized manufacturing plant, but such a pay structure would send the wrong message to employees in an entrepreneurship. In this article we plan to identify reward policies that systematically encourage the traits vital to the success of the entrepreneurship.
Procurement Coordinator Support Group
Authors: Kennedy Carol W , Jones Linda L
Published: July 2017

This article describes a support group for procurement coordinators. The group was initiated to help coordinators assist grieving donor families and to cope with their own reactions to stressful events. The theory underlying support groups is presented as a guide to understanding the purpose and process of the group. Issues of concern to coordinators are discussed along with strategies for facilitating group discussions and reducing stress.
Design, Development, and Implementation of a Critical Pathway in Simultaneous Pancreas-Kidney Transplant Recipients
Authors: Gushing Kathleen A , Stratta Robert J
Published: July 2017

The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of implementation of a critical pathway after simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation on length of stay and hospital charges. Two well-matched groups were compared: 10 patients who received transplants in 1991 (before implementation of the critical pathway) and 10 patients who received transplants in 1995 (after implementation). For the initial transplant hospitalization, the critical pathway was associated with significant reductions in length of stay, total number of laboratory tests, clinical laboratory charges, and total inpatient charges with organ acquisition charges excluded. Despite the rising costs of medical care, we have designed and implemented a critical pathway for simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation that has stabilized hospital charges by decreasing length of stay and the number of clinical laboratory tests.
Limitations to Survival for Infants with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome before and after Transplant: The Loma Linda Experience
Authors: Johnston Joyce K , Chinnock Richard E , Zuppan Craig W , Razzouk Anees J , Gundry Steven R , Bailey Leonard L
Published: July 2017

Untreated, hypoplastic left heart syndrome is a lethal cardiac defect. Heart transplant has become an accepted therapeutic option for this condition. However, significant limitations to survival remain for infants with this condition who are referred for heart transplantation. Attention to the prevention, early detection, and management of common problems occurring at each stage of the transplantation process is important for improving survival rates. This study retrospectively reviewed the cases of 195 infants with hypoplastic left heart syndrome registered for heart transplantation at Loma Linda University Medical Center between November 1985 and July 1996 to determine causes of death. During the waiting period, progressive cardiac failure and complications from interventional procedures were the leading causes. In the early postoperative period, technical issues and acute graft failure were most important, whereas late deaths (more than 30 days after transplant) were most often related to rejection and posttransplant coronary artery disease.
Recovery of Kidneys from Older Donors: Is it Worthwhile?
Authors: Roberts Jackie , Talbot David
Published: July 2017

One factor that is considered in the search for viable organs is the age of the potential donor. Retrospective data analysis on older donors (those aged 65 years and above) was performed to examine graft outcome. Data were collected on all older donors retrieved in one region from 1990 to 1995. Of those recipients transplanted locally (mean age, 57.6 years), creatinine values were recorded at 3 and 12 months. A recipient control group was selected from younger donors over the same period. Grafts were considered functional if the recipient was dialysis free. After 1 year, 24 recipients (82.3%) remained dialysis free, whereas 28 in the control group (90.3%) remained dialysis free during the same period. No significant differences were found in 1-year graft survival between kidneys retrieved from older donors versus those retrieved from younger donors. It therefore can be concluded that recovery from older donors is worthwhile.
Prague's IKEM and Berlin's Virchow Clinic: Three Years of Bilateral Cooperation between Two European Liver Transplant Centers
Authors: Lüsebrink Rainer , Bechstein Wolf Otto , Horch Dietmar , Gintelovà Jana , Pokorna Eva , Vitko Stefan , Filip Karel , Neuhaus Peter
Published: July 2017

With sweeping political changes in Europe since 1989, cooperation across former borders has become possible. This article reports an experience of cooperation between an established center in Western Europe (Berlin's Virchow Clinic) and a developing center in Central Europe (Prague's Institute for Clinical and Experimental Medicine, or IKEM). The relationship began with common organ procurement and has resulted in a high-quality transplant program in the Czech Republic. The Virchow Clinic functioned as counselor, adviser, and mentor to the developing center. The cooperation was supported by Eurotransplant, and training was provided to IKEM to enhance skills for an improved national program for liver transplantation. Standards for IKEM's full membership in the northwestern European network have been met. The number of liver transplantations per million population in the Czech Republic has markedly increased since the onset of this cooperative effort.
Organ Recovery from a Donor with Presumed Viral Encephalitis: A Case Report and Review
Authors: McDowell Jason H. , Zingaro Brandi L.
Published: July 2017

This article reviews the pathophysiology of viral encephalitis, which is specifically infectious to transplant recipients, and discusses the potential infectivity of donors who had this virus. In addition, the case report demonstrates one center's experience in placing organs from a donor who was presumed—but not confirmed—to have viral encephalitis. When a patient with viral encephalitis is considered for organ donation, it is recommended that a brain biopsy be obtained prior to organ placement to identify the suspected virus or confirm the absence of any viral entity.
Non—Heart-Beating Donors: A Case Study in Procurement
Authors: Lewis David D. , Valerius Wendy , Sommerville Mark A.
Published: July 2017

To help meet the increasing need for transplantable organs, especially kidneys, organ procurement organizations are recovering organs from Non—Heart-beating patients. This article outlines the successful recovery and transplantation of kidneys from such a donor. Consent issues and historical background are also discussed.
Health Promotion and Disease Prevention in Kidney Transplant Recipients
Authors: Bond Marilyn A.
Published: July 2017

Patients with end-stage renal disease have a critical need for health maintenance. Due to the shortage of donor organs, kidney transplant—the treatment of choice for end-stage renal disease—is not available to all individuals listed on the national waiting list. Therefore, treatment must be optimal to maximize graft survival and length of life in this high-risk population. Transplant recipients are exposed to the inherent risks of immunosuppression. Chronic use of pharmocologic agents to maintain graft survival is associated with conditions such as coronary artery disease, stroke, infection, and malignancy. A needs assessment revealed that many identified risks were modifiable through proper education and intervention. Therefore, health promotion and disease prevention—namely cancer screening and prevention, cardiovascular risk factors, and dietary guidelines—were identified as educational priorities. In an environment of fiscal constraint and priority setting, transplant centers are obligated to provide quality outcomes with cost-containment. Transplant teams must therefore focus on minimizing risks and preventing diseases to reduce costs and produce positive long-term outcomes.
Promoting Adherence to Transplant Medication Regimens: A Review of Behavioral Analysis
Authors: Newton Sarah E.
Published: July 2017

Failure to adhere to complex behavioral regimens has been a significant and longstanding problem in healthcare. Transplant recipients are one patient population that needs to learn and incorporate a multidimensional regimen of behaviors into their lives. The literature indicates that not all transplant recipients adhere to their medication regimens, which can lead to graft loss and possibly death. Behavioral analysis is often used to increase adherence to health-related regimens and has been effective for a variety of health conditions. The use of behavioral analysis as a strategy to promote adherence behaviors has not been reported in the transplant literature. Transplant coordinators and clinicians should learn the principles of behavioral analysis and apply them to the care of transplant recipients to facilitate recipients' lifelong adherence behaviors.
The Use of Over-the-Counter Medications by Transplant Recipients: A Guideline
Authors: Ellingson Tammie , Wipke-Tevis Deidre , Messina Cathy , Livesay Toni
Published: July 2017

Over-the-counter medications are becoming increasingly available to the general public. One of the issues facing clinicians working with transplant recipients is how to advise patients regarding management of symptoms associated with common ailments. Minimal literature is available to assist the transplant coordinators in this process. This article describes the usual immunosuppressants prescribed for transplant recipients and the over-the-counter medications used to manage these symptoms, and provides recommendations for over-the-counter medications with the least side effects.
Preparation and Characterization of Mono-End-Capped PMR Polyimide Matrix Resins for High-Temperature Applications
Authors: Hao J. Y. , Hu A. J. , Yang S. Y.
Published: July 2017

Mono-end-capped PMR-type polyimide matrix resins were prepared by incorporation of carbonyl groups into the polymer backbone of second-generation PMR polyimide by two synthetic pathways. The matrix resin features, thermal processing characteristics of B stage resins as well as thermal and thermooxidative stability of the thermally cured polyimide materials, were systemically investigated. Experimental results indicated that the matrix resins were lowviscosity and stable homogeneous solutions with 50% solid content in ethanol, possessing good characteristics for preparation of carbon or graphite fiber prepregs or B-stage molding compounds. The thermally cured polyimide materials exhibited glass transition temperatures (Tg) of >470 0C and onset temperatures of the storage modulus of >440 'C, 100 'C higher than those of commercial materials. Continuous carbon fiber-reinforced composites were fabricated, which have very high Tg and onset temperature of storage modulus at 446 'C. Preliminary results demonstrated that the composites laminate exhibited high mechanical strength and mechanical property retention at 371 'C, superior to the properties of commercial composite materials (CF/PMR-1I-50).
Synthesis and Characterization of Polyimides Based on 3,6-Diphenylpyromellitic Dianhydride
Authors: Harris Frank W. , Hsu Steve L.-C.
Published: July 2017

3,6-Diphenylpyromellitic dianhydride (DPPMDA) has been synthesized from 2,5-diphenyl-3,4-bis(4-methoxyphenyl)cyclopentadiene-1-one and dimethyl acetylenedicarboxylate. The monomer was polymerized with 11 aromatic diamines in refluxing m-cresol containing isoquinoline to afford two new series of phenylated polyimides. The polymers containing flexible ether or methylene linkages, meta-catenation, or cardo linkages were soluble in m-cresol, N-methylpyrrolidinone, and symtetrachloroethane. Their intrinsic viscosities ranged from 0.81 to 2.40 dl/g. The polymers prepared from 4,4′-diaminodiphenyl ether, 4,4′-diaminodiphenylmethane, and 1,3-diaminobenzene underwent extensive crystallization in concentrated m-cresol solutions. These polymers displayed weak glass-transition temperatures between 310°C and 320°C and melting points near 430°C. Three para-catenated, rigid-rod polymers were also prepared from DPPMDA and substituted 4,4′-diaminobiphenyls that displayed limited solubility in m-cresol. Solutions containing 8.5 to 15% (w/v) of the polymer prepared from 2,2′-bis(trifluoromethyl)-4,4′-diaminobiphenyl underwent reversible gellation near 85°C. Liquid-crystalline spherulites formed in the gels upon standing at ambient temperatures.
Linear Viscoelastic Properties of a Poly(arylene ether ketone) with Various Molecular Weights
Authors: Hou T. H. , Jensen B. J. , Bai J. M.
Published: July 2017

A new poly(arylene ether ketone) polymer (PAE) has been synthesized. This polymer was prepared from the reaction of 1, 3-bis(4-fluorobenzoyl)benzene with 2, 2-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)propane. Dynamic rheological measurements were performed on a series of six PAE polymer melts with weight average molecular weight (Mw) ranging from 9, 600 to 113, 000 g/mole and the linear viscoelastic properties were characterized. These stiff polymers behave like thermorheological simple fluids. A WLF type of equation was found to be adequate to describe their temperature dependent properties within 100°K above the polymer glass transition temperatures, Tg's. In the regime where the chain entanglement effects predominate, the dependence of zero shear viscosity on the Mw, M%ôMwB with β=5.13, was noted to be stronger than normally observed for polymers with flexible chains. The rate dependent viscosities for samples with different Mw can be superimposed to form a master curve by shifting along the reduced frequency axis. The shift factors are shown to be described by Graessley's theory based on molecular chain entanglements.
The Surface Characterization of Polyacrylonitrile-based Carbon Fibres by Electrochemical Techniques
Authors: Porter S. J. , DeArmitt C. L. , Robinson R. , Kirby J. P. , Bott D. C.
Published: July 2017

Carbon fibre surface properties have been studied by measuring the electrochemical behaviour of the hexacyano ferrate (III)/ferrate(II) couple using carbon fibre brush electrodes. Courtaulds Grafil polyacrylonitrile (PAN) based fibres have been studied that have been subjected to different extents of a proprietary wet oxidative surface treatment varying from 0 to 500% of the standard treatment. Analysis of the cyclic voltammograms gives information on the electroactive surface area, a parameter related to the conductivity perpendicular to the fibre surface and rate of electron transfer across the surface of the fibres. The electrochemical data are correlated with other surface properties such as the surface area determined by oxygen chemisorption, surface energy components and some adhesion parameters, such as interlaminar shear strength and critical fragment aspect ratio of epoxy matrix composites.
Influence of Frequency on Electrical Properties of Acid and Trivalent Metal Alginate Ionotropic Gels. A Correlation between Strength of Chelation and Stability of Polyelectrolyte Gels
Authors: Hassan Refat M.
Published: July 2017

The influence of a wide range of frequencies (0.02-800 kHz) on the specific conductance of acid and trivalent metal alginate ionotropic gel complexes has been investigated conductimetrically. A new technique has been used to measure the electrical conductance in these gel complexes. Plots of the specific conductance vs frequency show two definite inflection points for every metal alginate gel; whereas one inflection point is observed for the acid gels. Each inflection point is located at a frequency characteristic to the corresponding alginate gel complex. This behaviour was explained by the elimination of the relaxation effects resulting from the cleavage of the hydrogen bonds in the acid gels or cleavage of the coordinate and ionic bonds in the case of the trivalent metal alginate gels. A mechanism consistent with the experimental results in terms of the strength of chelation and stability of the gel complexes is presented.
The Polymerization of Acetylene-terminated Imides Studied by Vibrational Spectroscopy
Authors: Parker Stewart F. , Lander Judith A. , Gerrard Donald L. , Bowle Heather J. , Hay John N.
Published: July 2017

The cure of two model compound acetylene-terminated imides has been studied by both IR and Raman spectroscopy. Temperature ramped studies show that the cure of a maleimide-containing compound proceeds through simultaneous reaction of both the maleimide double bond and the acetylenic triple bond. Raman spectroscopy provides a convenient way to follow the extent of reaction via the loss of the acetylenic triple bonds. Isothermal studies show significant differences between the two compounds.
Antarctica and the United Nations
Authors: Chaturvedi Sanjay
Published: July 2017

During the 200-odd years, since the circumnavigation of the Antarctica by-Captain James Cook (1772–1775), international interest in the continent has grown to such an extent that the frozen Antarctica is now at the centre of a heated political debate. The prophecy of Captain Cook that the world would derive no profit out of it, seems to be proving wrong. Antarctica has now ceased to be merely the most significant ‘natural laboratory’ and the site of important scientific experiments, it has become, under the Antarctic Treaty of 1959, a subject of ‘innovative political experiment’ in multilateral administration.1 The surrounding oceans, where seals and whales were once-recklessly exploited, today harbour a new and fast growing fishery of immense potential,2 while the prospect of offshore oil and gas exploitation lies on the horizon. With the tantalising speculations regarding the existence of more than hundred onland minerals in Antarctica (including gold, copper, lithium and uranium), it is only natural that an increasing number of states should' take interest in this so far unnoticed mine.3

Divergence of national interests, perceptions and positions within the-Antarctica Treaty System in regard to who owns the Antarctic audits: resources—particularly between the Antarctica claimants and the non-claimants—has always led to tensions, latent as well as manifest, within the Treaty System; recently a series of new developments like the United Nations' involvement in the Antarctic question have added to the complexity of the Antarctic political scenario. They have serious future implications for the delicate political equilibrium so far maintained on the continent under the Antarctic Treaty. The questions asked today are: Who owns the Antarctic and how significant are the benefits To be derived out of it? Who is to profit from them? and To what extent the possible uses of Antarctica are-compatible with each other?

The essay purports to critically examine, in a historical perspective, the nature, scope and implications of the interaction between the United Nations and the Antarctic Treaty System. While taking note of the earlier attempts made to make possible a UN control of Antarctica, the Antarctic Treaty of 1959 and the functioning thereof during the ‘sixties’ and ‘seventies’, we shall focus our attention on the recent endeavour of some countries to involve the United Nations in the Antarctic Question. The study would include, of course, the nature and scope of the United Nations study of theQuestion of Antarctica ( November 1984) and the ensuing discussions. Thus we shall examine the perceptions of various states, and of the desirability and extent of the role UN might play in Antarctica. We shall also take a special note of India's stand in this regard.
Sino-Indian Relations: A Quest for Normalization
Authors: Jetly Nancy
Published: July 2017

I have always thought that it is important, even essential, that these two countries of Asia, India and China, should have friendly and, as far as possible, cooperative relations. It would be a tragedy, not only for India, and possibly for China, but for Asia and the whole world, if they develop some kind of permanent hostility… Friendship cannot exist between the weak and the strong, between a country that is trying to bully and the other which agrees to be bullied. It is only when people are more or less equal and when they respect each other, that they can be friends. That is true of nations also. We did work for the friendship of India and China and despite all that has happened and is happening, we shall continue to work for it. That does not mean that we should surrender anything that we consider right and that we should hand over bits of territory to China to please them. That is not the way to be friends with anybody or to maintain our dignity or self respect.1
Super Power Involvement in Indo-Pak Relations: A Case Study of The United States
Authors: Gaan Narottam
Published: July 2017

No nation in the present world can live in total isolation. In pursuit of one's own national interest, independence, survival and development, an interaction takes place among and between nations which marks the characterstic of the present international system and other subordinate state systems. The international system is dominated by the Super Power whose major aim is to increase their “sphere of influence” in all parts of the globe. The subordinate state systems such as South Asia, South East Asia, Middle East, Africa and Latin America are rife with regional conflicts and wars largely rooted in their historical, territorial and psychological claims. Though both the international system and subordinate systems are affected by each other, the former basically sets broad limits, context, and direction of regional conflicts in the subordinate state systems.

Since India and Pakistan are situated in South Asia—a subordinate state system — the impact of the international system dominated mainly by the United States and the Soviet Union on the Shaping of their external policy environment would explain their conflictual relationship.

This study is confined to an analysis of the involvement of the United States - one of the Super Powers in the conflictual and belligerent relationship between India and Pakistan with brief intervals of lull, since their becoming independent in 1947.
2010 Annual Survey of Journalism & Mass Communication Enrollments: Enrollments Grow, Reversing Stagnation of Recent Years
Authors: Vlad Tudor , Becker Lee B. , Kazragis Whitney
Published: July 2017

Undergraduate enrollments in U.S. journalism and mass communication programs increased by 2.0% in the autumn of 2010, a reverse in a two-year slowdown, but perhaps temporary. Graduate level enrollments increased 6.3% in doctoral programs and a dramatic 13.4% in master's programs. JMC programs sent a record number of bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree recipients into the job market. Enrollment in the journalism specialization declined again, but it remains the largest in the field with about a quarter of students. Undergraduate enrollment of racial/ethnic minorities hit a new high point of 36.3%. Nine in ten of program administrators said they are dealing with big challenges, most commonly budgets/financing.
Does Training Make a Difference? Evaluating Journalism Training Programs in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Schiffrin Anya , Behrman Michael
Published: July 2017

Media in much of sub-Saharan Africa are severely constrained by lack of resources, government pressure, the influence of media ownership, and the quality of secondary education and professional education. In many countries, newspapers are unable to perform the role of watchdog or to educate the public effectively, in part because of difficulties faced by their journalists. Into the breach have stepped myriad foreign, journalism training organizations. Some are non-governmental organizations with a development agenda that seek to promote education about their causes. Others are training arms of professional media groups or organizations that work on journalism education. As with most foreign donor-funded development programs, evidence of impact is expected. But very little academic research exists on evaluation of journalism training programs. Two new studies deployed content analysis and interviews with trained journalists to assess training's effectiveness.
Meeting the Doctors
Authors: Bolger Michael
Published: July 2017

Michael Bolger is an AVMA Director and local contact. As a result of medical negligence, he is paraplegic and confined to a wheelchair for the rest of his life. He won substantial damages in the High Court after suing the Health Authority and senior consultant concerned. Michael has written several articles and has been interviewed on radio and television about his experience as a victim of medical negligence and as a plaintiff and has views on the need for change.

In this article, Michael describes the seminar at which he was the lead speaker at the AVMA Medical Negligence Conference, held on 4–5th July 1997, where he discussed the impact of medical negligence on victims and doctors with a group of senior hospital doctors and consultants, the first time that a face-to-face discussion of this kind has taken place.
Transdermal Progesterone or Synthetic Progestogens
Authors: Wren Barry G
Published: July 2017

The increasing use of transdermal progesterone creams and gels and the introduction of transdermal patches containing the progestogens norethisterone and levonorgestrel has led to a group of problems, concerns and enthusiastic claims for transdermal therapy regimens which require careful scrutiny and evaluation. From a review of the literature it appears that transdermal progesterone creams are poorly absorbed and, at the doses presently used for therapy regimens, do not achieve plasma levels sufficient to protect the endometrium from oestrogen-induced proliferation. On the other hand transdermal progestogen in the form of norethisterone is absorbed and achieves blood levels sufficient to inhibit mitosis or to induce a secretory change in the endometrium. Transdermal progestogens may not result in some of the adverse responses associated with oral therapy and therefore are likely to be the preferred route of delivery for those women who suffer from problems associated with oral preparations. Transdermal progestogen regimens achieve a constant low blood level rather than a high initial level followed by the rapid degradation, which is associated with oral progestogen therapy. This lower constant level may explain why transdermal progestogens may be associated with fewer adverse reactions than oral administration, and why the transdermal combined patches have a higher incidence of breakthrough bleeding.
Bone Metabolism and Osteoporosis
Authors: Hannon Rosemary , Eastell Richard
Published: July 2017

Increased bone turnover in the postmenopausal years is a major factor in the development of osteoporosis. Biochemical markers of bone turnover represent a non-invasive, repeatable and relatively inexpensive method of assessing bone turnover. Evidence to date suggests that the most useful role for these markers in the management of individual postmenopausal women will be to monitor early response to preventative therapy or treatment for established osteoporosis.
Endometrial Ablative Techniques in the Climacteric Woman
Authors: Duckitt Kirsten
Published: July 2017

Endometrial ablative techniques are increasingly being used to treat menorrhagia in women who have finished childbearing and want to avoid hysterectomy. Since the widespread introduction of these techniques, the indications have been widened to include perimenopausal women and women on hormone replacement therapy with unacceptably heavy bleeding. Apart from the importance of assessing the effectiveness of these techniques for these particular women, it must be remembered that the risk of endometrial cancer starts to significantly increase over the age of 45 and evaluation of the uterine cavity before surgery and in the event of any abnormal bleeding afterwards is required. For the same reason, a progestogen must be added to any oestrogen replacement given after such surgery.
Pharmaceutical Steroids and their Production for Hormone Replacement Therapy
Authors: Dewick Paul M
Published: July 2017

This article describes fundamental aspects of the structure of pharmaceutical steroids, especially sex hormones (progestogens, oestrogens, androgens) which are used in medicine in hormone replacement therapy to offset the effects of menopause, as oral contraceptives to control fertility, and to correct hormonal deficiencies or imbalances. Structural relationships of the major drug chemicals currently used are discussed, together with some of the commercial processes employed in their production, and the natural raw materials that are exploited.
Role of Lifestyle Approaches in the Management of the Menopause
Authors: Guthrie Janet R.
Published: July 2017

The lifestyle variables - physical activity, dietary intakes and smoking - are considered in relation to menopausal symptoms, skeletal and cardiovascular health in women experiencing the menopausal transition and in the postmenopausal years. Aerobic physical activity is recommended to reduce risk factors for coronary heart disease. Site specific high-resistance exercise maintains bone density in postmenopausal women but customary physical activity has not been proven to be effective, particularly during the perimenopause and in the early postmenopausal years. Calcium intakes greater than 1000 mg per day have a beneficial effect on bone density in postmenopausal women, but not during the menopausal transition. Cessation of smoking is advantageous to both cardiovascular and bone health. The weight gain and an increase in abdominal fat which occurs during midlife is detrimental on cardiovascular risk factors. Reduction in calorific intake and an increase in physical activity can diminish these changes. Dietary intakes of phytoestrogens are reported to reduce menopausal symptoms, improve serum lipid profiles and reduce bone loss. Further research is needed to elucidate the role of phytoestrogens and to prescribe the style of diet to prevent cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis and reduce menopausal symptoms.
Hormone Replacement Therapy in Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Vassilopoulou-Sellin Rena
Published: July 2017

With recent emphasis toward early detection and with improved therapies, breast cancer is, increasingly, being diagnosed at a localised and curable stage More women, are therefore, entering menopause after successful treatment for breast cancer. In these former patients hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is generally avoided because of clinical concerns that oestrogen may reactivate the disease. Observational data on breast cancer survivors who have elected to use HRT do not indicate that it has a pronounced adverse effect. At the same time, data from prospective, randomised studies are not available to prove the safety of HRT in this population. Until such time, HRT should be considered with great caution in breast cancer survivors.
Mechanism of Action of Steroid Hormone Receptors in the Endometrium
Authors: Oehler Martin K
Published: July 2017

The endometrium is characterised by its ability to respond to steroids which exert their effects largely through their receptors. The development of antioestrogenic agents with tissue specific properties such as tamoxifen or raloxifene has shown the classical model of steroid receptor action where a hormone is responsible for switching a receptor on or off as too simplistic. It has been shown that steroid receptors require a number of coregulators for their activation and do not necessarily need the steroidal ligand to function but rather depend on peptide growth factors for their activation. The discovery of an additional oestrogen receptor subtype β and the knowledge about interactions between different members of the nuclear receptor family has finally led to a re-evaluation of steroid hormone receptor biochemistry. This review describes the growing understanding regarding the mechanisms of action of steroid receptors in the endometrium.
Skin Ageing in Women: Pathophysiology and Treatment
Authors: Bleiker TO , Graham-Brown RAC
Published: July 2017

Skin ageing in women is due to a combination of factors including intrinsic biological ageing, extrinsic damage, particularly ultraviolet radiation and hormonal changes, importantly the menopause. The most obvious signs of ageing are atrophy, laxity, wrinkling, dryness, mottled pigmentation and sparse grey hair; most of these are attributable to chronic ultraviolet exposure rather than intrinsic ageing itself. The life expectancy of Western populations is increasing resulting in a rising demand for the treatment of the visible consequences of ageing.

The skin has a number of important physiological functions which are all affected by the structural changes that occur with skin ageing. The menopause is not associated with any specific changes in the skin, but it is thought that the decrease in oestrogen levels is partly responsible for the dryness, thinning and decreased elasticity of skin seen. Use of hormone replacement therapy has been shown to improve many of these parameters.

The main cutaneous feature of the menopause is flushing, although other conditions are also associated. Hormone replacement therapy has long been known to control many of the troublesome symptoms of the menopause, but there are a number of cutaneous side effects.

This article will look specifically at the pathophysiology of the ageing skin in women, with particular reference to the effects of the menopause and of oestrogens. Certain conditions associated with the menopause and hormone replacement therapy will also be discussed, along with the treatment of photoageing.
A Large Increment Method for Material Nonlinearity Problems
Authors: Zhang Chunjun , Liu Xila
Published: July 2017

In the case of small deformation, cumulative errors and time consumption are the crux blocking the application of flow theory for material nonlinearity problems. To overcome these blockages, a new algorithm is proposed in the present paper. Different from traditional methods, the theory of generalized inverse of matrix and a new optimization approach are introduced to give full play of the force method. As one of the main advantages, parallel computation process is used to replace the step by step solution process. Time consumption are therefore reduced and cumulative errors suppressed in essence.
Green Functions for Axisymmetric Bending and Vibration of Thick Cylindrical Shells
Authors: Wang C.M. , Lam K.Y. , He X.Q.
Published: July 2017

It is shown herein that the axisymmetric bending and vibration problems of thick (Mindlin) cylindrical shells are analogous to the corresponding bending and vibration problems of Timoshenko beams resting on Winkler foundation. The Green functions for solving these two analogous problems are derived. Based on these Green functions, exact bending and vibration results may be obtained. The validity of the solutions has been verified via comparison studies with previous researchers' numerical results. Sample exact bending and vibration results are also presented for cylindrical shells in view to provide useful benchmark checks for researchers and engineers working on cylindrical shells and Timoshenko beams on elastic foundation.
A Generalized Conforming Quadrilateral Membrane Element Less Sensitive to Geometric Distortion
Authors: Xu Yin , Long Zhifei , Long Yuqiu
Published: July 2017

Many finite element models have very acceptable performance when the computing meshes are regular. However, as the level of mesh distortion is increasing, the accuracy of the solutions deteriorates rapidly. Therefore, how to formulate an element that is less sensitive to geometric distortion is an important question for study for a long period. In this paper, a simple quadrilateral membrane element with rotational degrees-of-freedom is developed with the approach of the generalized conforming element proposed by Long Yuqiu (1989). The new element exhibits excellent feature, that is, less sensitive to geometric distortion. A general method to formulate high precision finite element less sensitive to geometric distortion is provided in this paper.
Optimum Design of Actively Controlled Structures Using Genetic Algorithms
Authors: Li Q. S. , Liu D. K. , Fang J. Q.
Published: July 2017

Optimal placement of actuators in actively controlled structures is a mixed-discrete optimization problem; it has the characteristics of nonlinear, non-continuous, and so on. For this type of optimization problem, traditional optimization methods based on mathematical programming may not be effective. In this paper, the complexity, discreteness and non-linearity of the optimal design problems of actuator placement are investigated. An optimal control algorithm and active tendon controllers are applied to control the response of a 16-storey building under earthquake loads. A mathematical model of optimal actuator configuration is established. Based on the special optimization problem of actuator configuration in an actively controlled structure, a modified genetic algorithm is presented and applied to solve the problems. A design procedure/method is presented for this kind of optimization problem, and the suitability of this method for the optimization problem is investigated. The numerical calculation and analysis are carried out for the building controlled by active tendon control mechanisms, and the results are discussed and analyzed in detail.
Eigenvalue Sensitivity of Cracked Beam Structures
Authors: Yang X.Y. , Yi W.J. , Xie Y.M.
Published: July 2017

This paper presents an analytical method for vibration eigenvalue sensitivity of cracked beam structures on the basis of variational principles. A physical model of massless rotational spring is adopted to describe the discontinuity of rotation caused by the crack. The discontinuity is further represented as a distributed loading along the beam in form of singular functions. The matrix characteristic equation and eigenvalue sensitivity equation are derived based on variational principles along with the orthogonal series for beams of arbitrary boundary conditions. Analogous analysis is performed on the axial vibrations of a beam. Meanwhile, an exact analytical solution of eigenparameters for a cracked simply supported beam is provided to qualitatively study the effect of crack height on the accuracy of the sensitivity equation. The significance of the proposed method is that it can be easily extended to the case where the beam has multiple cracks by superposition of loads. A simply supported beam is analysed by the proposed method and the exact method. The comparison of results is satisfactory and the factors affecting the accuracy are discussed.
Non-Linear Analysis of Concrete Frames Using a Direct Stiffness Line Element Approach
Authors: Wong K.W. , Warner R.F.
Published: July 2017

A computationally efficient method of non-linear analysis is described for reinforced concrete frames. The Crisfield arc-length solution procedure is used together with a previously developed line element formulation which takes account of both the material non-linearities and the geometric non-linear effects. The resulting method has been found to be more reliable and more efficient than the previously-used methods which relied on load-control and displacement-control procedures. Results obtained from the analysis of several columns and frames are compared with test results reported in the literature.
Model Reduction of High-Rise Structures based on a Dynamic Condensation Method
Authors: Zhang N. , Li Q.S.
Published: July 2017

In this paper, a dynamic condensation method has been applied to the model reduction of a television transmission tower. The natural frequencies, the corresponding modes and the dynamic responses used for condensation can be obtained from finite element analysis of the original structure or from vibration testing. All the models presented have been condensed into five degrees of freedom (DOF) from a 40 DOF model of a TV tower. Comparisons between the performance of the models produced by the dynamic condensation procedure and that produced by the Guyan method are then conducted.
Interfacial Chemistry of Titanium Films Deposited on PMDA-ODA Polyimide
Authors: Unertl W.N.
Published: July 2017

Titanium was evaporated onto PMDA-ODA polyimide surfaces at room temperature up to total thicknesses of about five monolayers. The polyimide backbone is ruptured at both the oxygen ether linkage in the ODA and at the nitrogen imide linkage. The first fraction of a monolayer reacts with oxygen atoms in both the carbonyl and ether functionalities, and forms a mixed oxide with titanium predominantly in the Ti+3 oxidation state. Near one monolayer coverage, a carbide or mixed oxy-carbide species forms. Above one monolayer, nitrogen is strongly attacked and ~50% of the nitrogen reacts with titanium. The deposited titanium begins to take on metallic character only after the coverage has reached several monolayers. Heating at 575 K causes additional reaction. Scanning tunelling microscopy images obtained in air following heating show that the composite surface is substantially roughened.
Safety of Older Drivers: A Study of their Over-Involvement Ratio
Authors: Verhaegen Paul K. , Toebat Katrien L. , Delbeke Luc L.
Published: July 2017

An analysis of reports of 660 two-car collisions from the records of an insurance company showed that car drivers of 60 years old and older are more apt to be considered liable in an accident than younger drivers. A comparison of accidents for which older drivers (60 yrs. and over) are responsible with accidents for which younger drivers (30–39 yrs.) are responsible showed that the former have problems of perception and decision making and that the latter have problems with speed.
Everyday Sound Perception and Aging
Authors: Ballas James A. , Barnes Mark E.
Published: July 2017

Age related hearing loss is extensively documented in both longitudinal and cross-sectional studies but there are no direct studies of the ability of older persons to perceive everyday sounds. There is evidence suggesting some impairment. Vanderveer (1979) observed that older listeners had difficulty interpreting environmental sounds but did not report any performance data. Demands imposed by the stimulus properties of this type of sound and by the perceptual and cognitive processes found to mediate perception of this sound in college-aged listeners may present difficulty for older listeners. Forty-seven members of a retired organization were given a subset of sounds that had been used in previous identification studies. Identification data for the same set of sounds had been previously obtained from high school and college students (Ballas, Dick, & Groshek, 1987). The ability of the aged group to identify this set of sounds was not significantly different from the ability of a student group. In fact, uncertainties were closely matched except for a few sounds. Directions for future research are discussed.
Course Critiques; What Students Can Tell Us about Educational Efficacy
Authors: Porter David B.
Published: July 2017

A course critque based on a multi-channel model of education has been developed and administered to all students enrolled in behavioral science courses at the US Air Force Academy for the past three semesters. The utility of this approach is shown by data analyses at three levels: department, course and instructor. Several pedagogical implications are discussed.
Undergraduate Research: A Pedagogical Experiment
Authors: Ziegler Troy J. , Koch David M.
Published: July 2017

Students cooperatively conducted research experiments in an upper division cognitive psychology course in the Behavioral Sciences and Leadership Department at the United States Air Force Academy. The pedagogical structure of the course was modified to emphasize teaching cadets how to think versus what to think through the process of conducting research. Students were expected to cooperate in pairs to design and conduct their research. Cooperative research projects were used in the attempt to develop critical thinking skills and intrinsic motivation to excel. This paper presents the authors' views on the rationale and perceived benefits of cooperative research projects in upper division courses to develop critical thinking skills and intrinsic motivation.
A Physical Measure of Subjective Workload
Authors: Biers David W. , Polzella Donald J. , McInerney Paul
Published: July 2017

This investigation compared a physical measure of subjective workload (i.e., hand dynamometer) with traditional verbal scaling techniques. There were four subjective rating groups. One group employed the Subjective Workload Assessment Technique (SWAT) which required three separate ratings of time stress, mental effort, and psychological stress. A second group used verbal magnitude estimation (ME). Two physical measure groups estimated the magnitude of workload by squeezing a dynamometer in accordance with the magnitude of workload experienced. The DYNA1 group made one overall rating of workload similar to the ME group. The DYNA3 group made three workload ratings along the same dimensions as SWAT. All groups rated the workload associated with the performance of a continuous memory task under twelve levels of task difficulty. The physical measure of subjective workload most closely corresponded to actual task performance differences. The results suggest future development of a physical measure of subjective workload which can be utilized on a continuous basis, thus avoiding a major shortcoming of typical verbal measures of subjective workload.