bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial Effects in Energy-Efficient Residential HVAC Technology Adoption
Authors: Noonan Douglas S. , Hsieh Lin-Han Chiang , Matisoff Daniel
Published: September 2011

If your neighborhood adopts greener, energy-efficient residential heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, will your proenvironmental behavior become contagious, spilling over into adjacent neighborhoods’ HVAC adoptions? Objective data on more than 300,000 detailed single-family house sale records in the Greater Chicago area from 1992 to 2004 are aggregated to census block-group neighborhoods to answer that question. Spatial lag regression models show that spatial dependence or “contagion” exists for neighborhood adoption of energy-efficient HVACs. Specifically, if 625 of 726 homes in a demonstration neighborhood upgraded to green HVAC, data of this study predict that at least 98 upgrades would occur in adjacent neighborhoods, more than doubling their baseline adoption rates. This spatial multiplier substantially magnifies the effects of factors affecting adoption rates. These results have important policy implications, especially in the context of new standards for neighborhood development, such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) or Low-Impact Development standards.
Where is the State? How is the State? Accessing Water and the State in Mumbai and Johannesburg
Authors: Bawa Zainab
Published: September 2011

This article examines the water distribution systems in Johannesburg and Mumbai to argue that the political and institutional contexts of service delivery shape people’s access to the state and its resources, and also mediation between citizens and government institutions by councillors. Through ethnographies of water supply and distribution systems in Mumbai and Johannesburg, I explain how the organizational structure of the water utility, institutional arrangements of service delivery, regulatory systems, councillors’ proximity to decision makers and their relationship with municipal officials, civil servants and party members variously influence councillors’ mediation capacities and their ability to fulfil the claims of their constituencies for piped water supply and connections.
Evaluation of effective transverse mechanical properties of transversely isotropic viscoelastic composite materials
Authors: Pyatigorets Andrey V. , Mogilevskaya Sofia G.
Published: September 2011

A new computational approach for calculation of the effective transverse mechanical properties of unidirectional fiber-reinforced composites with linear viscoelastic matrix and elastic fibers is presented. The approach requires the knowledge of stresses outside a cluster representing the structure of composite in question. The effective properties are found from the assumption that the viscoelastic stresses at the distances far away from the cluster are the same as those from a single equivalent inhomogeneity. The approach directly takes into account the interactions between the inhomogeneities. The comparison of the results with several benchmark solutions reveals the advantages of the developed approach.
Mechanical behavior of wood–plastic composites investigated by 3D digital image correlation
Authors: Mbarek Talel Ben , Robert Laurent , Hugot Francoise , Orteu Jean-José
Published: September 2011

The tensile behavior of wood–plastic composite (WPC) with or without additive is studied using full-field strain measurements by 3D digital image correlation. It is shown that macroscopic values of the longitudinal strain are close to those measured by mechanical extensometer using standard mechanical tests. The modulus of elasticity provided by a Maxwell–Bingham model fitted to the experimental tensile curves is analyzed for several WPC formulations depending on the wood contents and the presence of additive. Color maps of the spatial strain distribution are commented. Moreover, the damage behavior and the degree of heterogeneity are analyzed thanks to the spatial standard deviation of the longitudinal strain field.
Computational modeling of complex failure mechanisms in laminates
Authors: van der Meer F. P. , Sluys L. J. , Hallett S. R. , Wisnom M. R.
Published: September 2011

A computational framework for the simulation of progressive failure in composite laminates is presented. The phantom-node method (a variation to the XFEM) is used for a mesh-independent representation of matrix cracks as straight discontinuities in the displacement field. Furthermore, interface elements are used for delamination and a continuum damage model for fiber failure. The framework is validated against experimental observations for open-hole tests and compact tension tests. It is shown that different failure mechanisms are captured well, which allows for the prediction of size effects.
Meso-level manufacturing process simulation of sandwich structures to analyze viscoelastic-dependent residual stresses
Authors: Brauner Christian , Block Tim B , Herrmann Axel S
Published: September 2011

This article presents a simulation method to analyze process-induced stresses of a meso-level unit cell of a pin-reinforced sandwich structure (carbon fiber-reinforced plastics/foam). During the manufacturing process, different mechanisms lead to process-induced deformations and stresses. These mechanisms depend on thermal expansion, shrinkage, nonlinear viscoelastic properties of the material, and variation in local temperatures. In critical cases, these residual stresses can lead to initial degradation and up to failure of the material. This article demonstrates a method to perform a sequential coupled thermo-mechanical analysis of the manufacturing process with focus on the correct determination of stresses and description of the viscoelastic relaxation effect. A novel approach to take into account anisotropy of characteristic relaxation times dependent on the cure process is presented.
Tensile properties of ZnO- and ZnAl2O4-coated aluminum borate whiskers reinforced aluminum composites at elevated temperatures
Authors: Guo EJ , Yue HY , Fei WD , Wang LP
Published: September 2011

ZnO- and ZnAl2O4-coated aluminum borate whiskers reinforced pure aluminum composites were fabricated by squeeze casting. The tensile properties of the composites at elevated temperatures were tested. The results indicate that the maximum tensile stress of the composite decreases with the increase of tensile temperature; however, the tensile strain of the composite initially increases and later declines. ZnO, especially, ZnAl2O4 coating of the whiskers can effectively improve the ultimate tensile strength of the composite at elevated temperatures. On the basis of fractographic analysis, the fracture mechanisms of the composites at elevated temperatures were also investigated.
Mineral production, territory, and ethnic rebellion: The role of rebel constituencies
Authors: Sorens Jason
Published: September 2011

Several possible relationships between natural resources and civil conflict have been hypothesized and tested in the literature. The impact of resources on conflict should depend on the circumstances of the group that (potential) rebels see themselves as representing and depend upon for support. While ‘lootable’ resources such as alluvial diamonds have been shown to increase the likelihood of insurgency, among territorially concentrated ethnic groups looting by rebels recruiting from the group is counterproductive because it imposes negative externalities on the rebel constituency. However, local mineral abundance could encourage rebellion indirectly, by promoting the development of secessionist objectives, since autonomy or independence would allow the rebel constituency to enjoy a larger share of the benefits flowing from mineral revenues. On the other hand, mineral abundance could encourage the government to exercise greater surveillance and control over potentially restive minority populations. On balance, then, mineral abundance should affect ethnoregional conflict primarily by encouraging ethnic rebels to adopt limited, territorial-autonomy objectives as opposed to governmental objectives. This hypothesis is tested with a new, global dataset of substate mineral production. Local mineral resource abundance is indeed negatively associated with governmental conflict among ethnoregional groups and positively related to secessionist or territorial conflict. Moreover, it is the total value of mineral production that matters, not specific types of minerals such as oil or diamonds. The net effect of mineral abundance on the total risk of intrastate conflict onset among ethnoregions is essentially zero.
Why Indian men rebel? Explaining armed rebellion in the northeastern states of India, 1970–2007
Authors: Vadlamannati Krishna Chaitanya
Published: September 2011

Armed conflicts have been a permanent feature of the northeastern region since Indian independence. Surprisingly, relentless conflicts in this remote region of India have received little attention in the literature. Although some studies on conflicts in India have made important contributions to understanding and analyzing the causes of conflicts in general, none of them has paid specific attention to the ongoing conflicts in the northeastern region of India. Relative deprivation and persistent economic and political discrimination are often identified as the major causes for armed rebellion in this region. I provide a first quantitative test of this argument, exploring whether deprivation and continual economic and political discrimination explain the probability of armed conflict incidence across nine northeastern states of India during the period 1970–2007. The main findings from probit estimations show that poverty (relative to the rest of the country) and economic and political discrimination explain conflict outbreaks, after controlling for income, population pressures, state capacity, ethnic affiliations, forest area, peace years, neighboring conflict incidence, and distance to New Delhi. The study also reports considerable support for the baseline results when controlling for potential reverse feedback effects using the generalized method of moments. These results are robust to alternative estimation techniques and sample size.
Skin Picking in Turkish Students
Authors: Calikusu Celal , Kucukgoncu Suat , Tecer Özlem , Bestepe Emrem
Published: September 2011

The aim of this study is to investigate the prevalence, characteristics, triggers, and consequences of skin picking (SP) in a sample of Turkish university students, with an emphasis on gender differences. A total of 245 students from two universities in Turkey were assessed by using the Skin Picking Inventory. In total, 87.8% of the students reported engaging in SP, and 2.04% of the students had pathological SP. There was no statistically significant difference between female and male students regarding the frequency of SP and the estimated daily SP time. The SP episodes began earlier in men than in women. Women were found to pick their chins, whereas men were found to pick their legs more frequently. SP is prevalent among Turkish students. Triggers, characteristics, and consequences of SP in Turkish students are similar to the results reported in studies conducted on different cultures. Large-scale studies are needed to further investigate gender differences in SP.
The Feeling of Being Contaminated in Adult Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse and Its Treatment Via a Two-Session Program of Cognitive Restructuring and Imagery Modification
Authors: Jung Kerstin , Steil Regina
Published: September 2011

Clinical experiences show that many survivors of childhood sexual abuse (CSA) suffer from a distressing feeling of being contaminated (FBC) even years or decades after the last experience of sexual violence. So far, this symptom has been neglected in research. The aim of this article is to illustrate this symptom and the necessity of a specialized treatment. Phenomenology, consequences, and possible concepts of explanation are described. The article presents a newly developed short-time treatment, cognitive restructuring and imagery modification, to reduce the FBC in adult survivors of CSA. Two case studies on women suffering from chronic CSA-related posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) plus the FBC demonstrate the outcome of the two-session program that can easily be integrated in a whole treatment program. They show that the treatment results in a reduction of the FBC and PTSD symptoms after CSA.
Aloe vera Non-Decolorized Whole Leaf Extract-Induced Large Intestinal Tumors in F344 Rats Share Similar Molecular Pathways with Human Sporadic Colorectal Tumors
Authors: Pandiri Arun R. , Sills Robert C. , Hoenerhoff Mark J. , Peddada Shyamal D. , Ton Thai-Vu T. , Hong Hue-Hua L. , Flake Gordon P. , Malarkey David E. , Olson Greg R. , Pogribny Igor P. , Walker Nigel J. , Boudreau Mary D.
Published: September 2011

Aloe vera is one of the most commonly used botanicals for various prophylactic and therapeutic purposes. Recently, NTP/NCTR has demonstrated a dose-dependent increase in large intestinal tumors in F344 rats chronically exposed to Aloe barbadensis Miller ( Aloe vera) non-decolorized whole leaf extract (AVNWLE) in drinking water. The morphological and molecular pathways of AVNWLE-induced large intestinal tumors in the F344 rats were compared to human colorectal cancer (hCRC) literature. Defined histological criteria were used to compare AVNWLE-induced large intestinal tumors with hCRC. The commonly mutated genes ( Kras, Ctnnb1, and Tp53) and altered signaling pathways (MAPK, WNT, and TGF-β) important in hCRC were evaluated within AVNWLE-induced large intestinal tumors. Histological evaluation of the large intestinal tumors indicated eight of twelve adenomas (Ads) and four of twelve carcinomas (Cas). Mutation analysis of eight Ads and four Cas identified point mutations in exons 1 and 2 of the Kras gene (two of eight Ads, two of four Cas), and in exon 2 of the Ctnnb1 gene (three of eight Ads, one of four Cas). No Tp53 (exons 5–8) mutations were found in Ads or Cas. Molecular pathways important in hCRC such as MAPK, WNT, and TGF-β signaling were also altered in AVNWLE-induced Ads and Cas. In conclusion, the AVNWLE-induced large intestinal tumors in F344 rats share several similarities with hCRC at the morphological and molecular levels.
What is a Trilogy? Editor’s Introduction
Authors: Bratich Jack Z.
Published: September 2011

This essay introduces the reader to the special issue commemorating Michael Hardt and Toni Negri’s trilogy ( Empire, Multitude, Commonwealth).
Communication, youth, social change and
Authors: Sooryamoorthy Radhamany
Published: September 2011

Mediascape, like any geographical landscape, offers a spectrum of scenarios across the world, each showing a characteristic set of similarities and dissimilarities to others. Theoretical and empirical research drawn from a variety of contexts discloses dimensions of media interrelationships, impacts and consequences in differing socioeconomic and cultural conditions. The consequences that media, or their use, have for youth are worthy of in-depth investigation. The focus in this review is on media and communication, and how young people adopt and use them to meet some immediate needs as well as to effect constructive changes in the society.
Short-term effects of local microwave hyperthermia on pain and function in patients with mild to moderate carpal tunnel syndrome: a double blind randomized sham-controlled trial
Authors: Frasca Giuseppina , Maggi Loredana , Padua Luca , Ferrara Paola Emilia , Granata Giuseppe , Minciotti Ileana , Marzetti Emanuele , Specchia Alessandro , Ronconi Gianpaolo , Rabini Alessia , Bertolini Carlo , Piazzini Diana Barbara
Published: September 2011

Objective: To determine the short-term effects of local microwave hyperthermia on pain and function in patients with mild to moderate idiopathic carpal tunnel syndrome.

Design: Double-blind randomized sham-controlled trial.

Setting: Outpatient clinic of the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University Hospital.

Participants: Twenty-two patients with idiopathic carpal tunnel syndrome, 12 of whom had bilateral involvement, for a total of 34 wrists, divided into two groups: a hyperthermia active treatment group (number of wrists = 17) and a sham-controlled group (number of wrists = 17).

Intervention: Six sessions, two per week, of either hyperthermia or sham treatment were provided over a period of three weeks.

Main measures: Visual analogue scale, Levine–Boston Self-Assessment Questionnaire (part I: evaluation of pain intensity; part II: evaluation of functional status) and neurophysiological assessments, were determined at baseline and at the end of the treatment.

Results: The hyperthermia group experienced a significant improvement in pain (visual analogue scale: P = 0.002; Levine–Boston part I: P < 0.0001) and functional status (Levine–Boston part II: P = 0.002) relative to baseline. No improvements in pain intensity or functionality were observed in the sham-treated group. Changes in pain severity between baseline and the end of treatment were larger in the hyperthermia group than in the sham-controlled group (Δ visual analogue scale P = 0.004; Δ Levine–Boston part I: P = 0.009). No differences either intra or between groups were observed for median nerve conduction velocity.

Conclusion: Hyperthermia provides short-term improvements in pain and function in patients with mild to moderate carpal tunnel syndrome.
Effects of home-based exercise training for patients with chronic heart failure and sleep apnoea: a randomized comparison of two different programmes
Authors: Servantes Denise Maria , Pelcerman Amália , Salvetti Xiomara Miranda , Salles Ana Fátima , de Albuquerque Pedro Ferreira , de Salles Fernando Cezar Alves , Lopes Cleide , de Mello Marco Túlio , Almeida Dirceu Rodrigues , Filho Japy Angelini Oliveira
Published: September 2011

Objective: To evaluate the effects of home-based exercise for patients with chronic heart failure and sleep apnoea and to compare two different training programmes.

Design: A randomized, prospective controlled trial.

Setting: Department of Cardiology, University Hospital, Brazil.

Subjects: Fifty chronic heart failure patients with sleep apnoea were randomized in three groups: Group 1 (aerobic training, n = 18), Group 2 (aerobic with strength training, n = 18), and Group 3 (untrained, n = 14).

Interventions: The training programme for Groups 1 and 2 began with three supervised exercise sessions, after they underwent three months of home-based exercise. Patients were followed by weekly telephone call and were reviewed monthly. Group 3 had the status of physical activity evaluated weekly by interview to make sure they remained untrained.

Main outcome measures: At baseline and after three months: cardiopulmonary exercise testing, isokinetic strength and endurance, Minnesota living with heart failure questionnaire and polysomnography. Adherence was evaluated weekly.

Results: Of the 50 patients enrolled in the study, 45 completed the programme. Clinical events: Group 1 (one death), Group 2 (one myocardial infarction), Group 3 (one death and two strokes). None were training related. Training groups showed improvement in all outcomes evaluated and the adherence was an important factor (Group 1 = 98.5% and Group 2 = 100.2%, P = 0.743). Untrained Group 3 demonstrated significant decrease or no change on measurements after three months without training.

Conclusion: Home-based exercise training is an important therapeutic strategy in chronic heart failure patients with sleep apnoea, and strength training resulted in a higher increase in muscle strength and endurance.
Aerobic interval training increases peak oxygen uptake more than usual care exercise training in myocardial infarction patients: a randomized controlled study
Authors: Moholdt Trine , Aamot Inger Lise , Granøien Ingrid , Gjerde Lisbeth , Myklebust Gitte , Walderhaug Liv , Brattbakk Line , Hole Torstein , Graven Torbjørn , Stølen Tomas O , Amundsen Brage H , Mølmen-Hansen Harald Edvard , Støylen Asbjørn , Wisløff Ulrik , Slørdahl Stig A
Published: September 2011

Objective: Exercise capacity strongly predicts survival and aerobic interval training (AIT) increases peak oxygen uptake effectively in cardiac patients. Usual care in Norway provides exercise training at the hospitals following myocardial infarction (MI), but the effect and actual intensity of these rehabilitation programmes are unknown.

Design: Randomized controlled trial.

Setting: Hospital cardiac rehabilitation.

Subjects: One hundred and seven patients, recruited two to 12 weeks after MI, were randomized to usual care rehabilitation or treadmill AIT.

Interventions: Usual care aerobic group exercise training or treadmill AIT as 4 × 4 minutes intervals at 85–95% of peak heart rate. Twice weekly exercise training for 12 weeks.

Main measures: The primary outcome measure was peak oxygen uptake. Secondary outcome measures were endothelial function, blood markers of cardiovascular disease, quality of life, resting heart rate, and heart rate recovery.

Results: Eighty-nine patients (74 men, 15 women, 57.4 ± 9.5 years) completed the programme. Peak oxygen uptake increased more ( P = 0.002) after AIT (from 31.6 ± 5.8 to 36.2 ± 8.6 mL·kg−1·min−1, P < 0.001) than after usual care rehabilitation (from 32.2 ± 6.7 to 34.7 ± 7.9 mL·kg−1·min−1, P < 0.001). The AIT group exercised with significantly higher intensity in the intervals compared to the highest intensity in the usual care group (87.3 ± 3.9% versus 78.7 ± 7.2% of peak heart rate, respectively, P < 0.001). Both programmes increased endothelial function, serum adiponectin, and quality of life, and reduced serum ferritin and resting heart rate. High-density lipoprotein cholesterol increased only after AIT.

Conclusions: AIT increased peak oxygen uptake more than the usual care rehabilitation provided to MI patients by Norwegian hospitals.
Psychometric validation of the Cardiac Rehabilitation Barriers Scale
Authors: Shanmugasegaram Shamila , Gagliese Lucia , Oh Paul , Stewart Donna E , Brister Stephanie J , Chan Victoria , Grace Sherry L
Published: September 2011

Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the factor structure and psychometric properties of the Cardiac Rehabilitation Barriers Scale (CRBS).

Design, setting, and participants: In total, 2636 cardiac inpatients from 11 hospitals completed a survey. One year later, participants completed a follow-up survey, which included the CRBS. A subsample of patients also completed a third survey which included the CRBS, the Cardiac Rehabilitation Enrolment Obstacles scale, and the Beliefs About Cardiac Rehabilitation scale three weeks later. The CRBS asked participants to rate 21 cardiac rehabilitation barriers on a five-point Likert scale regardless of cardiac rehabilitation referral or enrolment.

Results: Maximum likelihood factor analysis with oblique rotation resulted in a four-factor solution: perceived need/healthcare factors (eigenvalue = 6.13, Cronbach’s α = .89), logistical factors (eigenvalue = 5.83, Cronbach’s α = .88), work/time conflicts (eigenvalue = 3.78, Cronbach’s α = .71), and comorbidities/functional status (eigenvalue = 4.85, Cronbach’s α = .83). Mean total perceived barriers were significantly greater among non-enrollees than cardiac rehabilitation enrollees ( P < .001). Convergent validity with the Beliefs About Cardiac Rehabilitation and Cardiac Rehabilitation Enrolment Obstacles scales was also demonstrated. Test-retest reliability of the CRBS was acceptable (intraclass correlation coefficient = .64).

Conclusion: The CRBS consists of four subscales and has sound psychometric properties. The extent to which identified barriers can be addressed to facilitate greater cardiac rehabilitation utilization warrants future study.
The efficacy of forward head correction on nerve root function and pain in cervical spondylotic radiculopathy: a randomized trial
Authors: Diab Aliaa A , Moustafa Ibrahim M
Published: September 2011

Objective: To investigate the effect of forward head posture correction on pain and nerve root function in cases of cervical spondylotic radiculopathy.

Design: A randomized controlled study with six months follow-up.

Setting: University research laboratory.

Subjects: Ninety-six patients with unilateral lower cervical spondylotic radiculopathy (C5–C6 and C6–C7) and craniovertebral angle measured less than or equal to 50° were randomly assigned to an exercise or a control group.

Interventions: The control group ( n = 48) received ultrasound and infrared radiation, whereas the exercise group ( n = 48) received a posture corrective exercise programme in addition to ultrasound and infrared radiation.

Main outcome measures: The peak-to-peak amplitude of dermatomal somatosensory evoked potentials, craniovertebral angle, visual analogue scale were measured for all patients at three intervals (before treatment, after 10 weeks of treatment, and at follow-up of six months).

Results: There was a significant difference between groups adjusted to baseline value of outcome at 10 weeks post-treatment for craniovertebral angle, pain, C6 and C7 peak-to-peak amplitude of dermatomal somatosensory evoked potentials P = 0.000, 0.01, 0.000, 0.001 respectively and at follow-up for all previous variables ( P = 0.000).

Conclusion: Forward head posture correction using a posture corrective exercise programme in addition to ultrasound and infrared radiation decreased pain and craniovertebral angle and increased the peak-to-peak amplitude of dermatomal somatosensory evoked potentials for C6 and C7 in cases of lower cervical spondylotic radiculopathy.
Association of study characteristics with estimates of effect size in studies of ecstasy use
Authors: Taylor Eleanor M , Greene Natasha MP , Morgan Celia JA , Munafò Marcus R
Published: September 2011

Studies of the chronic effects of MDMA, or ‘ecstasy’, in humans have been largely inconsistent. We explored whether study-level characteristics are associated with the effect size estimate reported. We based our analyses on the recent systematic review by Rogers and colleagues, focusing on those meta-analyses within this report where there was a relatively large number of studies contributing to each individual meta-analysis. Linear regression was used to investigate the association between study level variables and effect size estimate, weighted by the inverse of the SE of the effect size estimate, with cluster correction for studies which contributed multiple estimates. This indicated an association between effect size estimate and both user group, with smaller estimates among studies recruiting former users compared with those recruiting current users, and control group, with smaller estimates among studies recruiting polydrug user controls compared with those recruiting drug-naïve controls. In addition, increasing year of publication was associated with reduced effect size estimate, and there was a trend level association with prevalence of ecstasy use, reflecting smaller estimates among studies conducted in countries with higher prevalence of ecstasy use. Our data suggest a number of study-level characteristics which appear to influence individual study effect size estimates. These should be considered when designing future studies, and also when interpreting the ecstasy literature as a whole.
Influence and interaction of genetic polymorphisms in the serotonin system and life stress on antidepressant drug response
Authors: Xu Zhi , Zhang Zhijun , Shi Yanyan , Pu Mengjia , Yuan Yonggui , Zhang Xiangrong , Li Lingjiang , Reynolds Gavin P
Published: September 2011

Variation in genes implicated in serotonin neurotransmission may interact with environmental factors to influence antidepressant response. We aimed to determine how a range of polymorphisms in serotonergic genes determine this response to treatment and how they interact with childhood trauma and recent life stress in a Chinese sample. In total, 14 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in coding regions of 10 serotonergic genes ( HTR1A, HTR1B, HTR1D, HTR2A, HTR3A, HTR3C, HTR3D, HTR3E, HTR5A and TPH2) were genotyped in 308 Chinese Han patients with major depressive disorder. Response to 6 weeks’ antidepressant treatment was determined by change in the 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS-17) score, and previous stressful events were evaluated by the Life Events Scale (LES) and Childhood Trauma Questionnaire-Short Form (CTQ-SF). Two 5-HT1B receptor SNPs (rs6296 and rs6298) and one tryptophan hydroxylase2 (rs7305115) SNP were significantly associated with antidepressant response in this Chinese sample, as was a haplotype in TPH2 (rs7305115 and rs4290270). A gene–gene interaction on antidepressant response was found between SNPs in HTR1B, HTR3A and HTR5A in female subjects. The HTR1B SNPs demonstrated interaction with recent stress, while that for TPH2 interacted with childhood trauma to influence antidepressant response.
The chronic aquatic toxicity of a microbicide dibromonitrilopropionamide
Authors: Chen Fang
Published: September 2011

The chronic aquatic toxicities of a microbicide dibromonitrilopropionamide (DBNPA) in Daphnia magna and rainbow trout were evaluated. DBNPA can significantly affect the reproduction and survival of D. magna. The lowest observed effective concentration (LOEC) and the no observed effective concentration (NOEC) of DBNPA to D. magna were 0.053 and 0.072 mg L−1, respectively, and the intrinsic rate of natural increase ( r) was significantly decreased ( p < 0.05) at a concentration of 0.01 mg L−1. Meanwhile, DBNPA affected the growth of juvenile rainbow trout at a concentration of 0.01875 mg L−1 after 28-day exposure. The results showed that DBNPA has chronic deleterious effects on aquatic organisms.
Bone mineral density (BMD) and osteoporosis risk factor in Egyptian male and female battery manufacturing workers
Authors: Raafat Bassem M , Hassan Nahed S , Aziz S W
Published: September 2011

The study was conducted to estimate the relation between lead exposure and the risk of various symptoms of osteoporosis in male and female battery manufacturing workers by using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry. A total of 18 female and 24 male workers were chosen with the same age range, duty hours per day, work history and weight. A total of 15 healthy controls were chosen with no previous history of bone illness and normal blood lead concentration. Blood lead concentration was measured in all workers and controls. Non-lead elevated subjects were excluded. Bone mineral density was measured by X-ray-based dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scan machine. Spine, femur neck and radius sites were studied. Results showed that both male and female workers recorded significant elevated levels of lead concentration accompanied by osteoporosis when compared with control. Interestingly, the data revealed that fracture risk in female was significantly higher than male workers. It was concluded that lead poisoning may act as osteoporosis risk factor or co-factor in female workers by activating the conversion of osteopenia to osteoporosis.
Studies on the electrolytes and microelements in Wistar rat following multiple exposures to acetamiprid
Authors: Mondal Samiran , Ghosh Ratan Chandra , Mukhopadhyaya Sunit Kumar
Published: September 2011

A subacute toxicity study of acetamiprid was undertaken in 72 female Wistar rats randomly divided into four groups (18 each). Acetamiprid was administered orally at the dose rate of 0, 25, 100 and 200 mg/kg of body weight to rats of groups I, II, III and IV, respectively. Group I served as control. Calcium, phosphorous, sodium, potassium, chloride, zinc, copper, iron and cobalt concentrations in plasma were significantly ( p ≤ 0.05) increased in acetamiprid administered groups. However, no alteration was observed in plasma manganese concentration in acetamiprid-treated rats. The repeated oral toxicity study on acetamiprid in present investigation suggested that it has toxic potential and it is a high-risk insecticide.
Municipal landfill leachate induces hepatotoxicity and oxidative stress in rats
Authors: Farombi EO , Akintunde JK , Nzute N , Adedara IA , Arojojoye O
Published: September 2011

Human beings are more often exposed to complex mixtures of hazardous chemicals than single toxicant. The present study investigated the effects of Olushosun municipal landfill leachate (OMLL) from Ojota in Lagos State of Nigeria on hepatic function and some biomarkers of oxidative stress in adult rats. Physicochemical characteristic analysis of OMLL showed that while total alkalinity, total acidity, total hardness, biochemical oxygen demand and chemical oxygen demand were 3-fold, 2-fold, 4-fold and 1-fold, respectively, concentrations of heavy metals analysis showed that copper, lead, cadmium, arsenic, cobalt, chromium and mercury were 9-fold, 4-fold, 21-fold, 1320-fold, 7-fold, 5-fold and 4-fold, respectively, higher than acceptable limits by regulatory authorities. The OMLL was administered at 0, 10, 20, 30 and 40% concentrations to adult male rats for 14 days. Following exposure, serum was collected for serum biochemistry assays and liver was collected to determine the antioxidant status. Exposure of animals to 10, 20, 30 and 40% OMLL resulted in 3%, 31%, 52% and 83% increase in aspartate aminotransferase activity, whereas it elevated alanine aminotransferase activity by 10%, 25%, 30% and 49%, respectively, when compared with the control. While OMLL administration significantly increased catalase activity, a sequential decrease in reduced glutathione level and in superoxide dismutase and glutathione- S-transferase activities with concomitant increase in malondialdehyde level were observed, when compared with the control. Collectively, the hepatotoxicity of OMLL could be due to the induction of oxidative stress and may suggest possible health hazards in subjects with occupational or environmental exposure.
Fracture behavior of textile glass fiber reinforced polymer concrete according to mixed-mode
Authors: Arikan Hüseyin
Published: September 2011

Textile glass fiber reinforced particle-filled polymer composite beams which have different weight fractions of glass fibers were produced with varying notch-to-depth ratios. The mechanical properties of specimens were found. The specimens were investigated in Mode I and Mode III fracture behavior using three-point bending (TPB) tests. Textile glass fiber contents used were 1, 2 and 3%, and polyester content was 16.5% of the total weight of the polymer composite system. The critical stress intensity factor was determined by using a compliance technique, the initial notch depth method and the J-integral method. Effects of crack angles on fracture behavior were also studied. The specimens, which have an inclined crack at an angle θ to the axis of the specimens, were used to carry out the tests. The specimens were tested with inclination angles 30°, 45°, 60° and 75°. The results are compared with the values of KIC obtained using conventional (θ = 90°) specimens. In addition, J-integrals were also determined.
“GANZ RASCH”
Authors: Alexandrowicz Rainer W.
Published: September 2011

This article presents a new and freely available tool for performing analyses according to the Rasch model (RM) and the latent class analysis (LCA). The software allows for the estimation of the model parameters and offers several measures of model fit. A graphical user interface (GUI) provides access to numerous options regarding data, models, and output. For educational purposes, an optional annotate feature allows to augment the output with brief explanations and citations regarding the procedures. Based on published data, the features of GANZ RASCH are briefly illustrated in two worked examples. The program intends to combine ease of use while allowing for performing a full-fledged analysis, thus targeting a wide range of users.
Globalization Theory, Media-Centrism and Neoliberalism: A Critique of Recent Intellectual Trends
Authors: Ampuja Marko
Published: September 2011

This article develops a critique of academic globalization theory from the viewpoint of media and communications. First, it discusses the overall importance of media and communications for the core argument of globalization theory, namely that the contemporary period has witnessed a dramatic shift in the spatio-temporal constitution of society. This is followed by a reconstruction and critique of such a line of reasoning in the work of two notable globalization theorists, Manuel Castells and Arjun Appadurai. It is argued that their positions are founded on an overtly media-centric and unhistorical treatment of globalization that lacks a critical materialist analysis of how the global media sphere has developed in the recent decades. It is further argued that such positions can be understood in the context of the rise of neoliberalism that overlaps with the development of globalization theory.
Side Effects of the Therapy With Peginterferon and Ribavirin in Chronic Hepatitis C
Authors: Nogueira José Barreto Cruz , Sena Laís Cristina Santana , Quintans Jullyana de Souza Siqueira , Almeida Jackson Roberto Guedes da Silva , França Alex Vianey Callado , Júnior Lucindo José Quintans
Published: September 2011

This study sought to decribe, quantify, and classify any adverse reactions occurring in patients with chronic hepatitis C treated with peginterferon and ribavirin, as well as verify the occurrence of potential medication interactions. The most prevalent reactions were fatigue (84.8%), fever (83%), weight loss (80%), irritability (74%), and body pain (72%). Most of the reactions were classified as mild (95%), whereas 4.5% were classified as moderate and 0.4% as severe. Adverse reactions led to the rearrangement of therapy for 9 patients (20%), where there was a reduction in dose for 7 (15%), temporary interruption of treatment for 5 (11%), and permanent discontinuation for 3 patients (7%). A total of 11 potential medication interactions were identified in 9 patients (20%), with the most frequent between peginterferon-α2a and captopril (45%). Given the above, it is observed that the treatment of chronic hepatitis C is marked by several adverse reactions of varying severity, which can interfere with the patient’s quality of life or in treatment compliance, and that can be aggravated by potential drug–drug interactions.
State-of-the-art of ‘Lean’ in the aviation maintenance, repair, and overhaul industry
Authors: Ayeni P , Baines T , Lightfoot H , Ball P
Published: September 2011

The increasing need for maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) organizations to meet customers’ demands in quality and reduced lead times is key to its survival within the aviation industry. Furthermore, with the unpredictability in the global market and difficulties with forecasting characteristic of the MRO industry there is an increased need for the re-evaluation of the operation models of organizations within this sector. However, severe economic turmoil and ever-increasing global competition introduce the opportunity for the adoption of a resilient, tried, and tested business operation model such as ‘Lean’. In order to understand this concept, its long-term viability, and its application within the aerospace MRO sector fully, this paper presents the state-of-the-art in terms of the adoption of Lean within the MRO industry by carrying out a systematic review of the literature. This paper establishes the common perception of Lean by the MRO industry and the measurable progress that has been made on the subject. Some issues and challenges are also highlighted including the misconceptions that arise from the direct transference of the perception of Lean from other industrial sectors into the aerospace MRO industry. The ‘enablers and inhibitors’ of Lean within the aviation industry are also discussed. This paper exposes the scarcity of the literature and the general lagging behind of the industry to the adoption of the Lean paradigm and thus highlights areas where further research is required.
Potential of in-cylinder exhaust gas recirculation stratification for combustion and emissions in diesel engines
Authors: Park W , Lee S , Choi S , Min K
Published: September 2011

It is difficult to decrease the emissions of nitrogen oxides (NO x) and soot simultaneously in conventional diesel engines. Low-temperature combustion concepts have been studied in an effort to overcome this problem. Low-temperature combustion has the potential to reduce NO x and soot emissions, but it has many limitations, including narrow operating ranges, high carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon emissions, and difficulties with ignition control. Exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) stratification is another combustion concept used to reduce NO x and soot emissions simultaneously using the local non-uniformity of EGR gas instead of increasing the overall EGR rate.

In this study, the EGR stratification concept was improved using computational fluid dynamics. First, a two-step piston was developed to maximize the stratified EGR effects by obtaining a favourable EGR distribution pattern and injecting fuel into the high-EGR region. Then, the possibility of combustion and emission control using stratified EGR was estimated. The ideally distributed EGR in the cylinder results showed that the region of locally high EGR effectively influences the combustion characteristics and, thus, horizontally and centrally stratified EGR has the potential to reduce the nitric oxide (NO x) and soot emissions at the same time. Engine simulation results also showed simultaneous reductions in the NO x and the soot emissions.
Survival extrapolation using the poly-Weibull model
Authors: Demiris Nikolaos , Lunn David , Sharples Linda D
Published: September 2011

Recent studies of (cost-) effectiveness in cardiothoracic transplantation have required estimation of mean survival over the lifetime of the recipients. In order to calculate mean survival, the complete survivor curve is required but is often not fully observed, so that survival extrapolation is necessary. After transplantation, the hazard function is bathtub-shaped, reflecting latent competing risks which operate additively in overlapping time periods. The poly-Weibull distribution is a flexible parametric model that may be used to extrapolate survival and has a natural competing risks interpretation. In addition, treatment effects and subgroups can be modelled separately for each component of risk. We describe the model and develop inference procedures using freely available software. The methods are applied to two problems from cardiothoracic transplantation.
The Moderating Effect of Extraversion–Introversion Differences on Group Idea Generation Performance
Authors: Jung J. H. , Lee Younghwa , Karsten Rex
Published: September 2011

Previous research provides evidence that individual differences in the personality characteristic of extraversion/introversion can play a significant role in group idea generation. Cognitive stimulation has also been shown to have a significant, though inconsistent, influence on idea generation in computer-mediated groups. We conducted two controlled experiments using a web-based group simulator to empirically test the impacts of these factors on group idea generation. In the first experiment, extraverts outperformed introverts in computer-mediated groups. In the second experiment, we exposed participants in computer-mediated groups to four levels of idea stimulation ranging from none to extremely high. Extraverts generated more unique and diverse ideas than did introverts in moderate- and high-stimuli conditions only. In sum, our study provides empirical evidence regarding the significant effect of individual differences, in this case the personality characteristic of extraversion/introversion on idea generation in a computer-mediated group. We have also demonstrated that a relationship exists between the level of cognitive stimulation and idea generation, with moderate levels of idea stimulation optimal for extraverts in computer-mediated groups. Theoretical and practical implications of these findings are discussed.
An efficient method for solving multi-point boundary value problems and applications in physics
Authors: Tatari Mehdi , Dehghan Mehdi
Published: September 2011

In this work, multi-point boundary value problems are considered. These problems have important roles in the modelling of various problems in physics and engineering. Although numerous works have been carried out on the existence and uniqueness to the solution of these problems, the numerical or analytical methods are not established for solving them. In this paper the well-known He's variational iteration method is applied for solving the multi-point boundary value problems. The method is modified and the results are shown using some test problems. These results show the efficiency of the new approach.
Model reduction and composite control for overhead hoist transport system by singular perturbation technique
Authors: Tsai Nan-Chyuan , Chen Din-Chang , Shih Li-Wen , Chiang Chao-Wen
Published: September 2011

An innovative Overhead Hoist Transport (OHT) system is proposed and analyzed to transport fragile semi-finished products in factories. A triplet of double-link arm is used to carry the load, in replacement of the cables used conventionally. Unlike conventional OHT, the proposed OHT exhibits superior capability for high-speed transportation, flexible stiffness and is able to account for the inherent auto-sway characteristics and parameters uncertainties of the OHT system. The three-time-scale plant model of the OHT system, including the drive motors, flexible links and rigid links, is developed. By singular perturbation order-reduction technique, the highly nonlinear high-order dynamics of the OHT system can be modeled as a low-order linearized plant so that the synthesis of the feedback controller becomes simpler. The composite control, composed of sliding mode control and input shaping technique, is proposed. The sliding mode control is, as usual, employed to account for the system parameters uncertainties. On the other hand, to suppress theresidual vibration, i.e., auto-swaying, the input shaping technique is utilized by implementation of a finite-length sequence of impulses in the appropriate amplitude and time epoch. Finally, the efficacy of the proposal composite control strategy is examined and verified by intensive computer simulations.
Base isolation by geosynthetic for brick masonry buildings
Authors: Nanda Radhikesh P , Agarwal Pankaj , Shrikhande Manish
Published: September 2011

The use of geosynthetic in civil engineering applications has experienced tremendous growth. The concept of seismic isolation is applied here for vibration control to masonry buildings by separating the superstructure from the foundation at plinth level by a sliding earthquake energy reducing friction layer in the form of green marble/geotextile sliding couple. The dynamic properties of the friction interface have been investigated. The effect of the ground motion on the behavior of a friction isolation system is investigated analytically by using a synthetic accelerogram that is compatible with the design spectrum of Indian Standard corresponding to the level of maximum considered earthquake in the most vulnerable seismic zone (PGA = 0.36 g) of India as well as a recorded accelerogram of the El Centro earthquake. It is observed that the frictional base isolation provided by the geotextile limits the earthquake energy transmission to the superstructure during a strong earthquake. Fifty per cent reduction in absolute response acceleration at roof level for the isolated structure is obtained compared with a fixed base structure at the cost of peak base sliding displacement, which is well within a plinth projection of 75 mm (3 in) and appears to be a more economical and more practical choice than other alternatives for frictional base isolation of a single story brick masonry structure.