bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An evaluation of the feasibility of assessment of volume perfusion for the whole lung by 128-slice spiral CT
Authors: Sun Haitao , Gao Fei , Li Ning , Liu Cheng
Published: May 2013

Background

Lung perfusion based on dynamic scanning cannot provide a quantitative assessment of the whole lung because of the limited coverage of the current computed tomography (CT) detector designs.

Purpose

To evaluate the feasibility of dynamic volume perfusion CT (VPCT) of the whole lung using a 128-slice CT for the quantitative assessment and visualization of pulmonary perfusion.

Material and Methods

Imaging was performed in a control group of 17 subjects who had no signs of disturbance of pulmonary function or diffuse lung disease, and 15 patients (five patients with acute pulmonary embolism and 10 with emphysema) who constituted the abnormal lung group. Dynamic VPCT was performed in all subjects, and pulmonary blood flow (PBF), pulmonary blood volume (PBV), and mean transit time (MTT) were calculated from dynamic contrast images with a coverage of 20.7 cm. Regional and volumetric PBF, PBV, and MTT were statistically evaluated and comparisons were made between the normal and abnormal lung groups.

Results

Regional PBF (94.2 ± 36.5, 161.8 ± 29.6, 185.7 ± 38.1 and 125.5 ± 46.1, 161.9 ± 31.4, 169.3 ± 51.7), PBV (6.7 ± 2.8, 10.9 ± 3.0, 12.9 ± 4.5 and 9.9 ± 4.6, 10.3 ± 2.9, 11.9 ± 4.5), and MTT (5.8 ± 2.4, 4.5 ± 1.3, 4.7 ± 2.1 and 5.6 ± 2.3, 4.3 ± 1.5, 4.9 ± 1.5) demonstrated significant differences in the gravitational and isogravitational directions in the normal lung group ( P < 0.05). The PBF (154.2 ± 30.6 vs. 94.9 ± 15.9) and PBV (11.1 ± 4.0 vs. 6.6 ± 1.7) by dynamic VPCT showed significant differences between normal and abnormal lungs ( P < 0.05), notwithstanding the four large lungs that had coverage > 20.7 cm.

Conclusion

Dynamic VPCT of the whole lung is feasible for the quantitative assessment of pulmonary perfusion by 128-slice CT, and may in future permit the evaluation of both morphological and functional features of the whole lung in a single examination.
The ‘Altar of the Lord Your God’ in Deuteronomy 16.21: Central Altar or Local Altars?
Authors: McDonald Richard
Published: May 2013

Commentators differ on the location of the altar mentioned in Deut. 16.21 and do not substantiate their conclusions with evidence. Is the altar mentioned a local altar or the central altar of the temple/tabernacle? This article argues for local altars, with three lines of evidence. First, the altar law of Deut. 16.21 is compared with Exod. 20.24 to determine if the altar law of Deuteronomy borrows the language of the altar law of Exodus, as claimed by S.R. Driver. Second, the use of the lamed of advantage in Deut. 16.21 is analyzed to determine its function in the law. Third, clues for the location of the altar are sought for in the immediate context of Deut. 16.18–17.13.
Is the Account of the Organization of the Camp Devoid of Organization? A Proposal for the Literary Structure of Numbers 1.1–10.10
Authors: Condren Janson C.
Published: May 2013

This article argues that the diverse units present within Num. 1.1–10.10 are more elaborately arranged than has been widely assumed. By utilizing a synchronic approach that pays special attention to repetition and other structural markers, Num. 1.1–10.10 is shown to consist of two parallel panels of three units each: 1.1–6.27 (1.1–2.24; 3.1–1.49; 5.1–6.27) and 7.1–10.10 (7.1–89; 8.1–26; 9.1–10.10). A resultant laity-clergy-laity pattern in each panel reinforces the centrality of Yahweh's tabernacle presence in Israel's midst, as mediated through the priests, for the campaign ahead.
The Faculty of Feeling
Authors: Sasaki Ken-ichi
Published: May 2013

The paper attempts to elucidate the nature and action of feeling: a subject corresponding to the original conception of aesthetics by Baumgarten. It analyzes several different uses of the verb “to feel” in order to bring out the difference between simple perception and feeling. Feeling, it emerges, is an overtone given to a perception that has something particular, or ineffable, about it. With reference to Nelson Goodman’s notion of exemplification, and the Kantian conception of reflective judgment, feeling is defined as a resonance that arises spontaneously in us, in response to the perceptive stimuli of an object, from the depth of our memory as the store of past experience. Lastly, the paper explains the basis of freshness of feeling, and the individuality and universality of feeling.
Learning Disability Documentation in Higher Education
Authors: Sparks Richard L. , Lovett Benjamin J.
Published: May 2013

This study examined the supporting documentation submitted by students with learning disability (LD) diagnoses. The participants were 210 students who were enrolled in a college support program for students with disabilities at a private liberal arts college. Findings showed that although most students submitted a psychoeducational evaluation, fewer than half submitted a complete evaluation that included an IQ test and a complete achievement battery that contained full cluster or composite scores and reported standard scores. Public school evaluators had completed larger numbers of incomplete evaluations than private clinicians. Above 20% of the evaluations had been completed more than 3 to 5 years earlier, and 12% were more than 5 years old. The findings from this study extend conclusions from other investigations to specialized support programs for students with LD, suggesting that the quality of documentation for LD submitted to these programs is often poor.
Preparation of an adipose-derived stem cell/fibrin–poly(d,l-lactic-co-glycolic acid) construct based on a rapid prototyping technique
Authors: Zhao Xinru , Wang Xiaohong
Published: May 2013

Currently, large, thick, and complex tissue vascularization is one of the research focuses of tissue engineering. Numerous studies have proven that microvascular systems can be developed by cultivating endothelial cells in a hydrogel/scaffold structure. As the sources of adult endothelial cells are very limited and very easily degraded, it is better to induce stem cells into endothelial cells. In this article, a grid poly(d,l-lactic- co-glycolic acid) structure with defined internal channels was fabricated using a low-temperature deposition manufacturing technique under computer direction. In a fibrinogen mixture, an aqueous adipose-derived stem cell fibrinogen mixture was incorporated into the internal walls of the poly(d,l-lactic- co-glycolic acid) scaffold and stabilized with thrombin solution. After several days of in vitro culture, the adipose-derived stem cells immobilized in the fibrin hydrogel were induced into endothelial-like cells with endothelial growth factor and basic fibroblast growth factor. Morphological and biological properties of the composite cell/fibrin–poly(d,l-lactic- co-glycolic acid) construct were characterized.
Nuclear location signal peptide–modified poly (ethyleneimine)/DNA complexes: An efficient gene delivery vector in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Zhang Hua , Liang Zhongyan , Li Wanli , Li Fangcai , Chen Qixin
Published: May 2013

The low transfection efficiency of nonviral gene delivery systems limits their applications. In this study, we demonstrated a simple method to modify poly(ethyleneimine)/DNA complexes with a nuclear location signal peptide via bis(succinimidyl) penta(ethylene glycol) coupling. The amount of grafted nuclear location signal peptide was controlled within a range of 0–9 µg for poly(ethyleneimine)/DNA complexes containing 10 µg DNA and 100 µg poly(ethyleneimine) by adjusting the grafting agent and peptide feeds. The particle size and surface zeta-potential of the complexes were largely retained after nuclear location signal immobilization. Based on the results of the flow cytometry measurements, the nuclear location signal–modified poly(ethyleneimine)/DNA complexes were internalized into at bone marrow stem cells at a significantly faster rate and a higher amount than the unmodified complexes. In vitro transfection experiments, using plasmid DNA encoding bone morphogenetic protein 2, indicated that the nuclear location signal peptide–modified poly(ethyleneimine)/DNA complexes have significantly higher gene transfection ability toward bone marrow stem cells than unmodified complexes. The porous collagen scaffolds loaded with nuclear location signal–modified poly(ethyleneimine)/plasmid DNA encoding bone morphogenetic protein 2 complexes successfully transfected tissue cells and induced the human bone morphogenetic protein 2 expression in a rat. The modification of the poly(ethyleneimine)/DNA complexes with nuclear location signal peptide was effective in enhancing gene transfection of complexes in vitro and in vivo, thus indicating potential applications for bioactive scaffolds with enhanced tissue regeneration performance.
Cartilage tissue engineering with controllable shape using a poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)/collagen hybrid scaffold
Authors: Dai Wenda , Yao Zhenjun , Dong Jian , Kawazoe Naoki , Zhang Chi , Chen Guoping
Published: May 2013

It is of critical importance to prepare three-dimensional biodegradable porous scaffolds for cartilage tissue engineering. We developed a poly(lactic- co-glycolic acid)/collagen hybrid scaffold, which combined the advantages of natural type I collagen and synthetic polymer polylactin 910 knitted mesh (90:10 copolymer of glycolic acid and lactic acid), and a method using this poly(lactic- co-glycolic acid)/collagen scaffold to regenerate cartilage with controllable shape. The mechanically strong poly(lactic- co-glycolic acid) mesh served as a mechanical skeleton supporting the scaffold, and the collagen benefited cell seeding, distribution, and tissue formation. Bovine chondrocytes were cultured in the hybrid scaffold and transplanted into the subcutaneous sites of nude mice for 4 weeks. All the samples showed spatially uniform cell distribution, natural chondrocyte morphology, and deposition of abundant cartilaginous extracellular matrices such as type II collagen and aggrecan. Production of glycosaminoglycans per DNA reached 74.63% of the natural articular cartilage. The mechanical strength was 62.76% and 71.43% in Young’s modulus and stiffness, respectively, compared to the native articular cartilage. All the samples successfully maintained the original shapes. Our method provides a new strategy for regeneration of cartilage tissue with designed shapes.
Retrospective Computed Tomography Mapping of Intrapleural Air May Demonstrate Optimal Window for Ultrasound Diagnosis of Pneumothorax
Authors: Kiley Sean , Tighe Patrick , Hajibrahim Omar , Deitte Lori , Gravenstein Nikolaus , Robinson Albert
Published: May 2013

Introduction:

When a pneumothorax exists, free air should rise to the most nondependent region within the chest. Current ultrasound (US) examination methodologies may exclude visualization of these areas that may limit the sensitivity of the examination. This retrospective study uses computed tomography (CT) scans to precisely evaluate where free air within the thorax occurs and correlates this location with a presumably optimal US interrogation window.

Methods:

A total of 94 CT scans of patients with a pneumothorax in a single institution from December 2006 to January 2010 were examined. The borders and volumes of each pneumothorax were precisely measured by a radiologist. Logistic regression was used to determine the relationship between volume and location of intrapleural air at specified areas of the hemithorax. Sensitivities relating location of intrapleural air at a specific landmark and side of thorax were calculated.

Results:

All but 3 of the pneumothoraces extended to the sternum. In all, 83 patients demonstrated a pneumothorax between rib interspaces 3 and 6 (mean pneumothorax volume 300.4 mL, 95% confidence interval [CI] 217.4-383.3), and 11 patients did not (mean pneumothorax volume 4.5 mL, 95% CI 1.7-7.3; P < .0001). The cumulative sensitivity for the presence of intrapleural air at rib interspaces 3 to 6 along the sternal border was 88%. This was consistent regardless of the side of hemithorax (right 91% and left 86%).

Conclusion:

The CT scans demonstrate that intrapleural air most often collects along the mediastinum between ribs 3 and 6 on either side of the chest. Although no USs were performed in this retrospective study, one may infer that a parasternal approach along rib interspaces 3 to 6 is an easy and sensitive window to diagnose pneumothorax with US.
FEM simulation and experimental study on the quenching residual stress of aluminum alloy 2024
Authors: Zhang Lei , Feng Xiao , Li Zhaoguang , Liu Changyong
Published: May 2013

Finite element models were established to simulate the quenching processes of aluminum alloy 2024 blocks under different quenching conditions. The surface cooling curves of aluminum blocks in different quench media were obtained by experiment. Inverse heat-transfer calculations were applied to determine the heat-transfer coefficient curves. Finite element model was used to predict residual stresses developed after quenching process by quenching aluminum blocks with different thicknesses (20 mm ≤ d ≤70 mm) into two kinds of quenchants (water and polyalkylene glycol solution). The influence of block thickness and quenchant on residual stresses was investigated by both finite element method simulation and experiments. To validate the simulation results, the X-ray diffraction method was used to measure the residual stresses developed in aluminum alloy 2024 blocks after quenching process. The agreement between model and experiment was good. It was concluded that both block thickness and quench media had critical influences on residual stresses. When the thickness of the aluminum block increased from 20 to 50 mm, the residual stress value at the center of the block increased by 100% and the increase of the residual stress became insignificant after 50 mm. In d = 20 and 30 mm cases, polyalkylene glycol quench conditions were proved to cause lower levels of residual stress than water quench conditions.
Similarity-based method for multiresponse optimization problems with intuitionistic fuzzy sets
Authors: Peng Jen-Ping , Yeh Wei-Ching , Lai Tsung-Chih , Hsu Chi-Pin
Published: May 2013

In considering an engineer’s opinion in optimizing a multiresponse problem, attention must be paid to vagueness and hesitancy in revealing his or her perceptions of a fuzzy concept such as “importance” or “excellence.” Recently, the notion of intuitionistic fuzzy sets has been found to be more effective than that of fuzzy sets for dealing with vagueness and hesitancy. However, little research has been done on optimizing multiresponse problems using intuitionistic fuzzy sets. This article focuses on state systems and explores optimization of multiresponse problems with intuitionistic fuzzy sets, in which the importance of each response is given by an engineer as intuitionistic fuzzy set. A novel optimization procedure is proposed that is based on a measure of similarity between intuitionistic fuzzy sets. To demonstrate the efficiency and effectiveness of the proposed method, two case studies are provided–one of plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition and the other the copper chemical mechanical polishing.
Prediction of springback during indirect hot press forming through tensile test with simultaneous cooling
Authors: Hwang June S , Moon Jung H , Kang Chung-Gil
Published: May 2013

Due to the demand for reduced weight, improved safety, and crashworthiness in vehicles, the need to manufacture automobile structural components from ultrahigh-strength steels is apparent. Indirect hot press forming process is a process developed from hot press forming because of steel’s high resistance to trimming after hot press forming. From the researches about indirect hot press forming, considerable springback in the indirect hot press forming is accrued after preforming. After this trimming, the material is calibrated by hot press forming process. In this article, the springback is accrued at preforming and the final shape of u-bending with varying cooling rates is predicted using ABAQUS software. To find the characteristics and effects of temperature changes during the hot press forming process, high-temperature tensile test with simultaneous cooling is conducted and the results are applied to the analysis. The shape deviations after the indirect hot press forming process are compared according to cooling rate conditions.
Modeling and analysis of elongation for submerged arc-welded joints by using developed agglomerated fluxes
Authors: Kumar Ajay , Singh Hari , Maheshwari Sachin
Published: May 2013

This study explores the elongation of submerged arc-welded joints by using developed agglomerated fluxes. The response surface methodology technique was used to conduct the experiments. MnO, CaF2, NiO, MgO, and Fe-Cr were added to the fluxes comprising CaO, SiO2, and Al2O3 as the main constituents. The effect of the addition was studied by means of mechanical performances of the welds in terms of elongation. The elongation of weld metal increases with the increase in MnO, MgO, and Fe-Cr constituents, but CaF2 and NiO constituents did not reveal favorable sign unlike the other three constituents mentioned here. The recommended optimal conditions were verified by conducting confirmation experiments.
Experimental studies on the overall efficiency performance of axial piston motor with a laser surface textured valve plate
Authors: Wang Zhaoqiang , Gu Linyi , Li Lin
Published: May 2013

Experimental studies on the overall efficiency performance of axial piston motor with a laser surface textured valve plate are developed to study the potential use of laser surface texturing in the form of spherical micro-dimples. This study adapts the fiber laser marking machine to machine micro-dimples with different dimensions on the surface of the valve plate for axial piston motor. In addition, these tests of the overall efficiency are given to the axial piston motor fixed to the valve plate with laser micro-dimples in order to find the relationship between the overall efficiency of the axial piston motor and different dimensions of micro-dimples on the surface of the valve plate. The regions of inner dead point and outer dead point of the valve plate are easily erodable because of the pressure pulsation. Therefore, in this study, micro-dimples are machined with different dimensions on the region of the valve plate for the axial piston motor. It is shown that the overall efficiency of the axial piston motor fixed to the valve plate with micro-dimples (area ratio of 5%) can be improved by 2.8%–6.1%, compared to that without micro-dimples; the overall efficiency of axial piston motor fixed to the valve plate with micro-dimples (diameter of 0.1 mm) can be improved by 0.8%–4.9%, compared to that without micro-dimples.
Application of optical force measurement to mode characterization of atomic force microscopy nanomachining
Authors: Cho Nahm G , Lee Seoung Hwan
Published: May 2013

Atomic force microscopy is often used not only to acquire the sample surface topography at the subnanometer scale but also to measure forces on the surface during imaging. This study aims to develop a practical measurement scheme of the actual scratching forces exerted during atomic force microscopy nanoscratching using a simple optical microscope setup. The measurement results are utilized to analyze the mode characteristics of atomic force microscopy nanomachining. Unlike typical atomic force microscopy force measurement methods using position-sensitive detector signal analysis, the optically measured atomic force microscopy cantilever deformation data using varying input (normal) forces along with information on the cantilever stiffness were used to estimate the components of the actual force exerted during nanomachining without using complex data interpolation methods. Scratching experiments were performed on Si(100) workpieces, and the estimated real force values were compared with the experimental data from atomic force microscopy nanomachining for each input force and corresponding scratch depth. Frictional coefficients and in-process acoustic emission monitoring results were also used to conduct an in-depth analysis of the actual force results. It is shown that the estimation results are meaningfully close to both the theoretical evaluations and the scratching experimental data as the scratch depth changes. Moreover, the force data are shown to have the ability to detect mode transitions such as the elastic–plastic and the plowing–cutting transitions during nanomachining, which validates the utility of this approach.
A study of the mechanical properties of objects built through weld-deposition
Authors: Suryakumar Simhambhatla , Karunakaran KP , Chandrasekhar U , Somashekara MA
Published: May 2013

Hybrid layered manufacturing, an automatic layered manufacturing process for metallic objects, combines the best features of two well-known and economical processes, namely, weld-deposition and milling. A study of the mechanical properties like hardness and tensile strength of objects made through hybrid layered manufacturing is presented in this article. It was found that the interior matrix has negligible hardness variations in all directions. The tensile strength of the matrix displays negligible variations in the horizontal plane. However, the same for the vertical direction initially was found to be slightly lower, but this could be rectified by increasing the weld-deposition current. The ability of hybrid layered manufacturing to make composite material matrix with good material bonding has also been demonstrated. These studies help in understanding and controlling the anisotropic behavior of objects built using weld-deposition–based rapid prototyping and manufacturing techniques.
Thermomechanical modeling sensitivity analysis of electrically assisted forming
Authors: Bunget Cristina J , Salandro Wesley A , Mears Laine
Published: May 2013

Recent research by the authors has resulted in the conception of several methods of accounting for direct electrical effects during an electrically assisted manufacturing process, where electricity is applied to a conductive workpiece to enhance its formability characteristics. This modeling and analysis strategy accounts for both mechanical effects and heat transfer effects due to the applied electrical power. This study presents a sensitivity analysis and explanation of several key material and process inputs during an electrically assisted forming test on Stainless Steel 304 and Titanium Grades 2 and 5 specimens. First, the effect that the specific heat ( Cp) value has on the model will be discussed and compared with another lightweight material. Second, the significance of all three heat transfer modes (conduction, convection, and radiation) will be noted, and any possible simplifications to the existing heat transfer model will be highlighted. Third, the general electroplastic effect coefficient profile shape for the Stainless Steel 304 material will be compared to that of titanium alloys. Fourth, a frequency analysis will be done on the data taken during the experiments, by way of a Fast Fourier Transform, and the variation of frequency response with the electric input is studied. Overall, this study provides insight into several factors affecting a material’s electroplastic effect coefficient profile and also compares resulting electroplastic effect coefficient profiles of various materials.
Hot incremental forming of magnesium and aluminum alloy sheets by using direct heating system
Authors: Van Sy Le , Thanh Nam Nguyen
Published: May 2013

This article presents the use of an electrically assisted manufacturing method in the incremental sheet forming process to improve formability, surface quality, and geometric accuracy. This system utilizes a direct current source connected directly to a metal sheet through two electrodes at opposite edges to conduct heat based on Joule’s effect. The approach produces a homogeneous heating zone in the whole metal sheet with very short ramping time. In this work, the heating system is designed to serve the investigation of formability, geometric accuracy, and surface roughness of the hot incremental forming technology. Three main results expected from this system are the influence of the processing parameters on the formability, the ability to improve accuracy and formability, and the reduction or elimination of springback effects in the deformation of high-strength aluminum alloy sheets (AA5055) and magnesium alloy sheets (AZ31).
Electric discharge drilling of metal matrix composites with different tool geometries
Authors: Singh Abhishek , Kumar Pradeep , Singh Inderdeep
Published: May 2013

There exist numerous challenges during hole making in super alloys and other advanced materials such as the metal matrix composites. The conventional hole making operations such as drilling sometimes becomes uneconomical because of low productivity and poor quality. It becomes necessary to conceptualize and develop processes that are not only economical but also produce high-quality holes. Electric discharge drilling process is one such process that combines the effect of the electric discharge machining and the conventional drilling. In the present experimental investigation, experiments have been performed on a modified electric discharge machining setup with a facility to rotate the electrode. The work-piece material has been selected as Al6063/10% SiC metal matrix composite as tool wear is an important limitation during its conventional drilling. The major objective is to investigate the effect of the geometry of tool electrode on the process performance that has not been investigated exhaustively. The material removal rate has been selected as the measure of performance and criteria for comparison. It has been found that the geometry of the tool electrode influences the material removal rate and should be selected judiciously.
An angle of attack-based derailment criterion for wheel flange climbing
Authors: Guan Qinghua , Zeng Jing , Jin Xuesong
Published: May 2013

A three-dimensional equilibrium model of a wheelset is created that takes the geometrical contact and non-linear creep force between the wheel and rail into account. This model can thus be used to study derailment conditions during flange climbing. To ensure the validity of Nadal’s criterion at small and negative angles of attack, the effects of the angle of attack and friction coefficient on an “equivalent friction coefficient”, which is defined as the ratio of the lateral creep force to the normal force, are studied. Using the results of the wheelset equilibrium equation, two curve-fitted formulas for the equivalent friction coefficient are generated in terms of the angle of attack and friction coefficient using, respectively, the Shen–Hedrick–Elkins creep theory and FASTSIM approach. A derailment criterion is proposed based on the curve-fitted equivalent friction coefficients, which takes the angle of attack, friction coefficient and contact angle into consideration. The effectiveness of the proposed criterion is verified through numerical comparisons with wheelset equilibrium equations for different contact angles and friction coefficients, and through experimental comparisons with scaled tests made by Japanese National Railways and full-scale field testing at the Transportation Technology Center, Inc.
Numerical study of blade deterioration effects on an industrial gas turbine stage performance and flow field
Authors: Aligoodarz Mohammad Reza , Derakhshan Faeze E
Published: May 2013

Turbine blades deteriorate over operation and overall performance of turbine decreases due to dust entry, fuel impurities, chemical reactions with air impurities, sulphur in the fuel, incomplete combustion and unburned carbon production. In this article, the effects of blade surface roughness and geometry changes caused by operation conditions on turbine performance were numerically calculated. Numerical calculations were carried out for the fourth stage of an axial turbine which was experimentally tested in the Technical University of Hannover, Germany. Results showed a good agreement with the previous measurements. To find out the effect of blade deteriorations on turbine stage performance and flow field, blade deteriorations including blade surface roughness, tip clearance increment and fouling on vane and blade of turbine were applied in four different mass flow rates to the three-dimensional numerical model.
Prediction of impeller rotating stall onset using numerical simulations of a centrifugal compressor. Part 2: Evaluation of mass-flow fluctuations at rotor–stator interfaces
Authors: Vagani Marco , Engeda Abraham , Cave Michael J
Published: May 2013

Rotating stall is an unsteady flow phenomenon that appears in both axial and centrifugal compressors. It is detrimental to the performance of the compressor, significantly narrowing its operating range. Numerical modeling of this phenomenon has been a major area of investigation for axial compressors with some success. While stall occurs less often in centrifugal compressors than axial ones, it can be much harder to predict. Some preventive measures are known but are mostly rules of thumb developed through experimental experience. This work focuses on the prediction of the onset flow rate of impeller rotating stall using computational fluid dynamics. Two different types of unsteady numerical simulations were performed on full 360° models of a compressor that exhibited rotating stall. The transient simulations were conducted using distributed processing on high-performance servers. Fast Fourier transform analysis was used to determine the mass-flow fluctuations in the impeller that can be associated to the phenomenon. The frequency analysis results were then used to determine the onset flow rate for impeller rotating stall. The simulation results and fast Fourier transform analysis were compared to experimental results for the same compressor and show a good correlation between the experimental and numerical tests.
BaP-induced DNA damage initiated p53-independent necroptosis via the mitochondrial pathway involving Bax and Bcl-2
Authors: Jiang Y , Chen X , Yang G , Wang Q , Wang J , Xiong W , Yuan J
Published: May 2013

Benzo(a)pyrene (BaP), a typical environmental carcinogen, can induce cell death both by protein 53 or tumor protein 53 (p53)-independent and -dependent pathways. However, little is known about the molecular mechanisms of p53-independent pathways in BaP-induced cell death. In this study, cells with different genetic background (including p53-proficient human fetal lung fibroblast cell lines (MRC-5), p53-deficient human non-small-cell lung carcinoma cell lines (H1299), and p53-knockdown cell lines (MRC-5 p53−/−)) were used to establish models of BaP-induced cell death. The results showed that BaP (8, 16, 32, and 64 μM) induced necroptotic cell death in the cell lines. The necroptotic cell death and DNA damage were concurrently observed. In the three cell lines, at 24 h after treatment, BaP (8–64 μM) upregulated expressions of BAX, BCL-2, and cleaved caspase-3 proteins, but not their messenger RNA levels. The findings suggested that BaP-induced necroptosis was modulated by the p53-independent pathway, which was related to the induction of BAX, decreased expression of BCL-2, and activation of caspase-3.
Melatonin ameliorates oxidative stress and reproductive toxicity induced by cyclophosphamide in male mice
Authors: Chabra A , Shokrzadeh M , Naghshvar F , Salehi F , Ahmadi A
Published: May 2013

The present study evaluated the efficacy of melatonin in cyclophosphamide (CP)-induced testicular injury, lipid peroxidative damage, and antioxidant enzymes status of the mice testis on the basis of biochemical and histological studies. Mice were pretreated with four different doses of melatonin (2.5, 5, 10, and, 20 mg/kg by body weight (b.w.)) via intraperitoneal injection for five consecutive days followed by injection with CP (200 mg/kg b.w.) 1 h after the last injection of melatonin on the 5th day. After 24 h, mice were euthanized, testes were immediately removed, and biochemical and histological studies were conducted. Treatment with melatonin significantly mitigates lipid peroxidation, superoxide dismutase, and catalase activity and the level of reduced glutathione content abnormality induced by CP in mice testis. Histological examination clearly demonstrates that pretreatment of melatonin prevented CP-induced spermatogenesis toxicity and spermatogenic cells reduction in mice testis. The protective effect of melatonin is likely due to the antioxidative properties of the indolamine existed in the chemical structure. Because melatonin is a safe, natural compound, it could be used concomitantly as a supplement to protect people undergoing chemotherapy against reproductive toxicity.
Depressive symptoms are prevalent in childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (cSLE)
Authors: Kohut S Ahola , Williams TS , Jayanthikumar J , Landolt-Marticorena C , Lefebvre A , Silverman E , Levy DM
Published: May 2013

Background

Depressive symptoms are common in adolescence and young adulthood; however, their prevalence in childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (cSLE) is unknown.

Objective

The objective of this study was to examine the prevalence of depressive symptoms and their association with disease characteristics in children, adolescents, and young adults with cSLE.

Methods

A cross-sectional sample of patients with cSLE between 10 to 24 years old completed standardized depression inventories. Demographics and disease characteristics were collected.

Results

Total depression inventory scores reported were below standard cut-off values for depression. However, 26% (10/38) of children and adolescents, and 44% (seven of 16) of young adults had scores at or above established cut-offs for elevated depression symptoms. Physical symptoms of depression were endorsed most frequently. There were no differences in depressive symptoms by disease characteristics including disease duration, health-related quality of life inventory scores, antiphospholipid antibody status, and a history of renal involvement or neuropsychiatric SLE (NPSLE). However, two patients had a history of depression as an NPSLE manifestation of their SLE. In the children and adolescents, prednisone dose was associated with negative self-esteem ( r = 0.37, p = 0.04) and somatic depressive symptoms ( r = 0.39, p = 0.02), but we did not observe a significant association in the young adults.

Conclusion

Depressive symptoms in cSLE are frequent, although similar to the high prevalence rates in the general population. Physical symptoms are most frequently endorsed. Further study will determine if serial evaluations are recommended for early detection in this at-risk population.
Longitudinal relationships between stress of conscience and concepts of importance
Authors: Åhlin Johan , Ericson-Lidman Eva , Eriksson Sture , Norberg Astrid , Strandberg Gunilla
Published: May 2013

The aim of this observational longitudinal cohort study was to describe relationships over time between degrees of stress of conscience, perceptions of conscience, burnout scores and assessments of person-centred climate and social support among healthcare personnel working in municipal care of older people. This study was performed among registered nurses and nurse assistants (n = 488). Data were collected on two occasions. Results show that perceiving one’s conscience as a burden, having feelings of emotional exhaustion and depersonalization and noticing disturbing conflicts between co-workers were positively associated with stress of conscience. No significant changes were observed during the year under study, but degrees of stress of conscience and burnout scores were higher than in previous studies, suggesting that downsizing and increased workloads can negatively affect healthcare personnel. Following and expressing one’s conscience in one’s work, and perceiving social support from superiors are of importance in buffering the effects of stress of conscience.
Ethical issues in patient safety
Authors: Kangasniemi Mari , Vaismoradi Mojtaba , Jasper Melanie , Turunen Hannele
Published: May 2013

The purpose of this article is to discuss the ethical issues impacting the phenomenon of patient safety and to present implications for nursing management. Previous knowledge of this perspective is fragmented. In this discussion, the main drivers are identified and formulated in ‘the ethical imperative’ of patient safety. Underlying values and principles are considered, with the aim of increasing their visibility for nurse managers’ decision-making. The contradictory nature of individual and utilitarian safety is identified as a challenge in nurse management practice, together with the context of shared responsibility and identification of future challenges. As a conclusion, nurse managers play a strategic role in patient safety. Their role is to incorporate ethical values of patient safety into decision-making at all levels in an organization, and also to encourage clinical nurses to consider values in the provision of care to patients. Patient safety that is sensitive to ethics provides sustainable practice where the humanity and dignity of all stakeholders are respected.
The development and implications of a case-based computer program to train ethical decision-making
Authors: Park Eun-Jun
Published: May 2013

To effectively train ethical decision-making of nursing students, a case-based computer program was developed using Flash animation. Seven ethical cases collected from practicing registered nurses’ actual clinical experiences and a six-step Integrated Ethical Decision-Making Model developed by the author were employed in the program. In total, 251 undergraduate students from three nursing schools used the program in their nursing ethics course. The usability of the program and its usefulness in improving 11 abilities needed in ethical decision-making were measured; it scored higher than 4 on a 5-point scale. Of the students, 82% recommended the program as a valuable complementary tool in the teaching of a nursing ethics course. A variety of encouraging and positive experiences were reported by the students. The computer program is likely to be usefully practical in the training of abstract skills to nursing students, though certain challenges remain, such as the precise understanding of cognitive or affective responses to ethical issues.
Narrative analysis of the ethics in providing advance care planning
Authors: Baughman Kristin R , Aultman Julie M , Ludwick Ruth , O’Neill Anne
Published: May 2013

Our objective was to better understand the values and ethical dilemmas surrounding advance care planning through stories told by registered nurses and licensed social workers, who were employed as care managers within Area Agencies on Aging. We conducted eight focus groups in which care managers were invited to tell their stories and answer open-ended questions focusing on their interactions with consumers receiving home-based long-term care. Using narrative analysis to understand how our participants thought through particular experiences and what they valued, we identified seven themes representative of their work with consumers and families: humility, respect, responsibilities, boundaries, empowerment, courage, and veracity.
Researching poverty: Methods, results and impact
Authors: Saunders Peter
Published: May 2013

This article draws on evidence generated in recent deprivation studies conducted by the author and colleagues at the Social Policy Research Centre. After outlining some of the main limitations of poverty line studies, the paper explains how the deprivation approach addresses these weaknesses and illustrates the insights that deprivation studies can provide into the nature of poverty in contemporary Australia. It then compares the results produced by a deprivation approach with those produced using a poverty line – both in terms of what they imply about the extent of the problem and who they suggest is most affected by it. The comparisons demonstrate that the reservations that many hold about poverty research can be overcome and that when this is done, the results become more compelling and thus have the potential to have a greater impact on anti-poverty policy.
National fiscal consolidation and the challenge to Australian federalism
Authors: Warren Neil
Published: May 2013

Following failure of the stimulatory policies post the 2008 financial crisis and the resulting instability of the Euro, national fiscal consolidation with real sanctions for non-compliance has become a key focus of most governments as they address escalating budget deficits and rapidly rising public debt. The problem is that agreement by central governments to adopt national fiscal rules, whether self-imposed or imposed by some supranational institution, leaves unaddressed how such rules and sanctions should be adopted by (or imposed on) sub-central and local governments. To date, the primary focus has been on whether the encouragement given over recent decades to fiscal decentralisation has worsened public debt levels and made national fiscal consolidation by central governments more difficult. This article argues that what is missing from this discussion is attention to the intergovernmental institutional arrangements and how they and their reform are potentially crucial to both national fiscal consolidation and ensuring retention of the benefits of fiscal decentralisation.
Evidence-based policy: What sort of evidence do governments need?
Authors: Nevile Ann
Published: May 2013

Very few would dispute the proposition that evidence about the effects of different policy options should inform policy decisions. However, there is less agreement on the nature of the evidence needed. In addition, there may be problems in evaluating that evidence. This is particularly the case when experts offer conflicting advice. This article presents the position held by Professor Nevile that in giving policy advice to the government, it is almost always desirable to draw on a range of different policy instruments. While theoretical input is usually important, it is even more important that theory does not lose contact with the real world. Factual descriptions of the real world and the use of a theoretical toolkit containing more than one theory are essential in achieving this goal. These principles are illustrated by a discussion of a particular category of policy advice – the evaluation of government programmes.
Shared Decision Making for Clients With Mental Illness
Authors: Lukens Jonathan M. , Solomon Phyllis , Sorenson Susan B.
Published: May 2013

Objective:

The goal of this study was to test the degree to which client clinical characteristics and environmental context and social workers’ practice values and experience influenced support for client’s autonomy and willingness to engage in shared decision making (SDM), and whether willingness to engage in SDM was mediated by support for autonomy.

Method:

A randomized factorial survey of social workers working with adults with severe mental illness was employed. Eighty-seven social workers responded yielding 435 vignettes.

Results:

Hypotheses were partially supported. Diagnosis, symptomology, threats of harm, treatment adherence, substance use, and social workers’ values and experience predicted support for autonomy and willingness to engage in SDM. Willingness to engage in SDM was modestly mediated by support for autonomy.

Conclusion:

Helping social workers avoid bias in decision making is critical to the goal of supporting clients’ autonomy, building their capacity, minimizing disempowerment, and promoting recovery.
The Effects of Behavioral Parent Training on Placement Outcomes of Biological Families in a State Child Welfare System
Authors: Franks Sabrina B. , Mata Francesca C. , Wofford Erin , Briggs Adam M. , LeBlanc Linda A. , Carr James E. , Lazarte Alejandro A.
Published: May 2013

Behavioral parent training has proven effective in improving the skill performance of foster caregivers and biological parents of dependent children during role-play assessments. To date, however, no studies have examined the impact of behavioral parenting skills training on child placement outcomes. We conducted a quasi-experimental archival analysis of the case files of 171 biological parents who completed a behavioral parent training program and 171 control families who did not participate in the program but were matched on the county of service and time of Child Protective Services involvement in Alabama. Results indicate that parents were not only able to demonstrate use of the new skills after behavioral parent training, but that skill acquisition was associated with better placement outcomes for their children compared to control families and a greater number of closed cases for the state service-delivery system.
Social Maladjustment and Special Education
Authors: Cloth Allison H. , Evans Steven W. , Becker Stephen P. , Paternite Carl E.
Published: May 2013

The federal definition of emotional disturbance (ED) includes a social maladjustment (SM) exclusion clause that stipulates that students are not eligible for special education services if they are determined to be “socially maladjusted” and not also meeting criteria for ED. This clause has long been criticized for being ambiguous and confusing. Although the clause is not defined in federal regulations, it remains in each new reauthorization of the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (most recent, Individuals With Disabilities Education Improvement Act [IDEIA], 2004). This study provides an updated review of state practices regarding the use and interpretation of the clause, which has not been conducted since 1994. We examined state definitions, clarifications to terminology, and assessment recommendations to determine whether inconsistencies continue to exist across states. We present the results of a national survey that examined state and local school professionals’ reported practices regarding the exclusion and compared it with the policy of the state in which each respondent resides. Results indicated that states are moving toward the adoption of the federal definition of ED, which includes the clause. This is the case even though state regulations, and staff-reported use and knowledge of the clause continue to be inconsistent across states.
Nonlinear vibration and stability analysis of a flexible rotor supported on angular contact ball bearings
Authors: Cui Li , Zheng Jianrong
Published: May 2013

Flexible rotor systems supported by angular contact ball bearings display very complicated nonlinear behavior due to clearance and nonlinear Hertzian contact force. In this paper, a nonlinear vibration theoretical model for a flexible rotor-bearing system is derived in which the dynamic model of the shaft element, disk, coupling, nonlinear contact deformations and forces of the ball bearing are established. Nonlinear responses and orbits analysis of a flexible rotor angular contact ball bearing system are studied using the numerical integration method and maximal Lyapunov exponent. Bifurcation and stability of periodic motion of the flexible rotor-bearing system are studied using the continuation-shooting method and Floquet multipliers. Influences of initial contact angles, unbalance, damping factor, axial preloads, bending moments, stiffness ratio and rotating speed on stability and the bifurcation of periodic motion of the rotor-bearing system are analyzed. Finally, the theoretical model for a flexible rotor-bearing system is experimentally verified.