bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of illness perceptions: psychological distress and treatment-seeking delay in patients with genital warts
Authors: Ireland Juliet A , Reid Murray , Powell Rachael , Petrie Keith J
Published: October 2005

This study examined the relationships between illness perceptions, psychological distress and treatment-seeking delay in genital warts patients. Sixty-six genital warts patients were approached while attending a sexual health clinic. They completed a questionnaire assessing their illness perceptions, psychological distress and treatment-seeking delay. Negative perceptions of illness consequences and control and a perceived cyclical timeline were associated with increased psychological distress. Perceived illness consequences maintained significance in a multiple regression equation, which accounted for 25% variance in distress. Depression was associated with treatment-seeking delay ( r = 0.28, P = 0.03). In conclusion, illness perceptions may play an important role in the experience of psychological distress in genital warts patients. The implications of these findings for the design of health-care interventions are discussed.
Adsorption of p-Nitrophenol onto PDMDAAC-Modified Bentonites
Authors: Peng Xianjia , Luan Zhaokun , Zhang Hongmei , Tian Binghui , Fan Bin
Published: October 2005

A novel organobentonite was prepared by modifying bentonite with poly(dimethyldiallylammonium chloride) (PDMDAAC), a harmless and cost-effective type of polycation. Zeta potential and X-ray diffraction measurements suggest that PDMDAAC was intercalated into the bentonite interlayer space. PDMDAAC—bentonite has been found to be effective for the removal of p-nitrophenol with a removal rate of 81.4% being achieved. The adsorption process was pH-dependent and was slightly decreased by the Ca2+ and Mg2+ ions co-existing in the solution. A dual-phase adsorption mechanism was suggested for the process. The adsorbents obtained from the regeneration of PDMDAAC—bentonite still exhibit good adsorption capacities.
Temperature Effects Associated with the Adsorption of Neodymium Ions onto Activated Charcoal
Authors: Qadeer Riaz
Published: October 2005

The temperature dependence of the kinetics of the adsorption of neodymium ions from aqueous solution onto activated charcoal has been studied. The results obtained indicate that a form of equilibration appears to be attained after ca. 30 min although further very slow changes may occur over a much longer period. The adsorption process is controlled by the diffusion of neodymium ions into the pores of the activated charcoal. Adsorption follows first-order kinetics with an activation energy of 13.09 kJ/mol. Values of the equilibrium constant for the adsorption of neodymium ions onto activated charcoal increase with increasing temperature, thereby indicate the endothermic nature of the process.
Activated Carbons from Crosslinked Novolac Resin
Authors: Pajak Janusz , Labojko Grzegorz , Lachowski Andrzej
Published: October 2005

Activated carbons were prepared from well-characterized Novolac resin cured with various amounts of hexamethylenetetramine (HMTA). The process consisted of curing the resin with HMTA at 200°C, carbonization in nitrogen at 600°C and gasifying the char in carbon dioxide or in steam at 900°C. The influence of the amount of HMTA used for curing on the yield and the characteristics of the activated carbon was investigated. The pore volume attained a maximum for Novolac initially cured with ca. 2 wt% HMTA. Further increase in the amount of HMTA used for curing resulted in an increase in the yield of active carbon, but the susceptibility to carbon dioxide activation decreased. Relative to carbon dioxide, the use of steam generated a narrower, but more extensive, microporosity in the char obtained from cured Novolac resin.
Nanoporous Silica from the Spray Reaction of Metal Solution Microdroplets with Silicon Tetrachloride
Authors: Isobe H. , Hattori Y. , Kanoh H. , Yamamoto K. , Kaneko K.
Published: October 2005

Nanopore formation in silica, in which nanoparticles of metal compounds were embedded, was studied using analytical techniques such as SEM, XRD, XRF, XPS and nitrogen adsorption. Such metal compound nanoparticles formed between primary silica particles, providing micropores and mesopores caused by the formation of Si—O—M bonds (M = Al, Ni). Acid treatment dissolved the metal compound nanoparticles and destroyed the Si—O—M bonds, thereby increasing the micropore volume. The mesopore volume of the aluminium system increased on acid treatment, whereas that of the nickel system decreased.
Activation Energy for Dibenzofuran Desorption from Fe3+/TiO2 and Ce3+/TiO2 Photocatalysts Coated onto Glass Fibres
Authors: Xia Qibin , Li Zhong , Xi Hongxia , Xu Kefeng
Published: October 2005

In this work, TiO2, Fe3+/TiO2 and Ce3+/TiO2 photocatalytic films were respectively immobilized on glass fibres via the sol—gel technique to prepare supported photocatalysts. Temperature programmed desorption (TPD) experiments were conducted to measure the TPD curves for the removal of dibenzofuran from these photocatalysts, from which the activation energy for dibenzofuran desorption from the photocatalyst surfaces was estimated.

The results showed that the activation energies for dibenzofuran desorption from the photocatalysts TiO2, Ce3+/TiO2 and Fe3+/TiO2 coated separately onto the glass fibres were 16.41 kJ/mol, 22.55 kJ/mol and 33.59 kJ/mol, respectively, while the hardness values of the ions Fe3+, Ce3+ and Ti4+ were respectively 13.1 eV, 11.9 eV and 10.6 eV.

The data indicated that the use of Fe3+ or Ce3+ ions for doping a TiO2 photo-catalyst increased the local hardness of the doped TiO2 photocatalyst surface. This, in turn, increased the activation energy for the desorption of dibenzofuran from such a TiO2 photocatalyst surface.
Enhancement of the Adsorption of Co(II) and Ni(II) Ions onto Peanut Hulls through Esterification Using Citric Acid
Authors: Hashem A. , Abdel-Halim E.S. , El-Tahlawy Kh.F. , Hebeish A.
Published: October 2005

Peanut hulls were modified chemically by esterification with citric acid under conditions which yielded hulls rich in carboxyl content. The esterified products thus obtained were used in the removal of Co(II) and Ni(II) ions from aqueous solutions. The factors affecting the esterification reaction and the adsorption of the metal cations onto the peanut hulls before and after esterification were thoroughly investigated. The results obtained highlighted the following conclusions. The optimum conditions for esterification involve the treatment of peanut hulls (1 g) with 12.4 mmol citric acid in the presence of a very small amount of water for 2 h at 140°C. Similarly, the optimum pH for the adsorption of cobalt(II) ions onto the peanut hulls citrate was 7.0. The adsorption capacity, qe (mg/g), of Co(II) ions onto the peanut hulls citrate increased on increasing the extent of esterification, expressed as mequiv. —COOH/100 g sample. The maximum values for the adsorption capacity, qmax, were 28.7 mg/g and 270.3 mg/g on native and peanut hulls citrate, respectively. The qmax values for of Ni(II) ion adsorption were 5 mg/g and 175.4 mg/g on native and peanut hulls citrate, respectively. The equilibrium data were well fitted by the Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption models and showed the large capacity of peanut hulls citrate in the removal of Co(II) and Ni(II) ions from aqueous solutions.
DNA-Modified Polysulphone Microspheres for Endocrine Disruptors and Heavy Metal Ions Removal
Authors: Zhao Changsheng , Shi Ling , Xie Xingyi , Sun Shudong , Liu Xiangdong , Nomizu Motoyoshi , Nishi Norio
Published: October 2005

Porous polysulphone (PSf) microspheres were modified by blending DNA into them and immobilizing DNA onto their surfaces. The DNA-modified microspheres, which were stable in water, were then used to remove endocrine disruptors and heavy metal ions from their aqueous solutions. Such microspheres could effectively accumulate pollutant compounds and endocrine disruptors, such as ethidium bromide, Acridine Orange, biphenyl, dibenzofuran and dibenzo- p-dioxin from their aqueous solutions. PSf microspheres without DNA also accumulated and removed endocrine disruptors due to their porosity and the hydrophobic interaction between the endocrine disruptors and PSf. Endocrine disruptors with and without a planar structure were effectively accumulated and removed by the DNA-modified PSf microspheres. In addition, PSf microspheres were found to be capable of selectively removing heavy metal ions such as Zn2+, Cu2+, Mg2+, Cd2+ and Ag+ from their aqueous solutions. These results show that DNA can be used to modify PSf microspheres, with the DNA-modified microspheres having a potential use in environmental applications.
Straight Wing Vertical Axis Wind Turbines: A Flow Analysis
Authors: Horiuchi Kenji , Ushiyama Izumi , Seki Kazuichi
Published: October 2005

This research examines the flow velocity characters around lift-based straight-wing vertical-axis wind turbines (SW-VAWT) by numerical simulation. The precision of the prediction technique was confirmed. Furthermore, we estimate the flow behaviour during the wind turbine rotation by using this numerical simulation technique, and evaluate the flow around the SW-VAWT. This paper presents an outline of the work and gives the results of the calculations.
Early Development of Modern Vertical and Horizontal Axis Wind Turbines: A Review
Authors: Shikha  , Bhatti T.S. , Kothari D.P.
Published: October 2005

This paper reviews the initial development of the design and operation of modern vertical and horizontal axis wind turbines, with the aim of comparing the development of the two types. Application in developing countries concentrates on the Savonius rotor. The review aims to record important early developments, including the years following the first oil crisis of 1973.
The SpeedSort, DynaSort and Scatter Wind Correlation Methods
Authors: King Ciaran , Hurley Brian
Published: October 2005

The long-term wind resource at a potential windfarm site may be estimated by correlating short-term on-site wind measurements with data from a regional meteorological station. Three correlation methods developed at Airtricity are described, and their accuracy assessed.
Community Wind Power in Europe and in the UK
Authors: Toke Dave
Published: October 2005

Commercially sized community wind power schemes, whether owned by local farmers or by co-operatives, are very acceptable under the UK Renewables Obligation for a wide range of sites in the UK. Perceived ‘barriers' to such schemes include a lack of confidence and knowledge among farmers and grass-roots activists concerning wind power. By contrast knowledge, expertise and enthusiasm is spread much more widely in countries such as Germany, The Netherlands and Denmark. Nevertheless, an increasing number of community-based wind power initiatives are emerging in the UK. Greater resources on dissemination of expertise about community wind power and support for feasibility/planning costs of some flagship schemes need to be deployed by governmental and non-governmental organisations.
Weibull Parameter Estimation — A Comparison of Different Methods
Authors: Basumatary H , Sreevalsan E , Sasi K K
Published: October 2005

The Weibull probability function is a widely accepted tool to model wind regimes. This paper presents a comparative study of different methods used to estimate Weibull parameters of a wind regime. Five different methods are described and used for the estimation. Time series data of wind speed over a whole year for two sites have been used for the study. The results obtained as a plot of error versus wind speed are similar in all the five methods, yet the method of standard deviation gives the best results.
The Development of Grid Code Requirements for New and Renewable Forms of Generation in Great Britain
Authors: Johnson Antony , Tleis Nasser
Published: October 2005

This paper presents the development of Grid Code requirements for new and renewable forms of generation in Great Britain (GB). After briefly describing the background to the GB Transmission System and the volume of renewable generation which is anticipated to connect in the future, the paper discusses the Grid Code and Grid Code change process. In particular, the paper discusses the interfaces with key stakeholders, the technical issues considered in connecting other generation technologies to the Transmission network and the rationale for the final Grid Code requirements. The technical issues discussed include fault ride through, frequency range, frequency response, power/frequency characteristic, reactive range, voltage control and power quality. The paper concludes with the experiences gained in the connection of wind generation projects to the GB Transmission System both before and after the approval of new proposals to the GB Grid Code.
Status of and Prospect for Wind Power Generation in Canada
Authors: Guha Souvik , Soloumah Hany M. , Kar Narayan C.
Published: October 2005

Increasing environmental concerns and decreasing stocks of fossil fuels encourage wind power generation worldwide. In Canada, being consistent with the world wide growth, wind power is growing at an impressive rate as a potential energy source. This paper investigates the status and prospects of wind power development in Canada. Currently, Canada has an installed wind power capacity of 444 MW and the target is to reach the 4,000 MW mark by 2010 to meet the Canadian Government's commitment to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases. Federal and provincial governments are encouraging the application of wind power by implementing different policies and programs. Some of these policies are discussed in this paper. In this article, a few key issues which the country has to overcome in order to utilize the significant untapped wind energy available have been discussed along with their possible solutions.
James Blyth — Britain's First Modern Wind Power Pioneer
Authors: Price Trevor J.
Published: October 2005

The American, Charles Brush is often credited with being the first person to use a wind powered machine to generate electricity, which operated for the first time during the winter of 1887. However, earlier in July 1887, Professor James Blyth, a Scottish academic of Anderson's College, Glasgow (which later became Strathclyde University) was undertaking very similar experiments to Brush, which culminated in a UK patent in 1891. Likewise the Dane, Poul La Cour, is known to have constructed relatively advanced wind turbines throughout the 1890s, which were also used to generate electricity which was then used to produce hydrogen.

This paper investigates Professor Blyth's life, seeking to understand his motivation to generate electricity from the wind and his association with contemporaries, including Lord Kelvin. The paper argues that it was Blyth and not Brush, who was the first to produce wind-powered electricity.
Wind, Photovoltaic anD Mini-Hydro Hybrid Generation in Bolivia: A Case Study at a Mountainous Village
Authors: Dei Tsutomu , Hirata Kiyoshi , Ushiyama Izumi
Published: October 2005

This paper investigates the most feasible configuration for hybrid generation by indigenous renewable energy sources in Chachacomani village at 4,220 meters elevation in Bolivia. Site monitoring of wind, solar irradiation and the water level of the Jarma River was conducted for a year. The data enabled potential power output from Wind, PV and Micro Hydro generation system to be estimated. Energy balance calculations for different configuration of hybrid generation system were made. The results show that the three energy supplies would be complementary for integrated power.
Investigation of Sound-Absorbing Material Configuration of a Smart Classroom Utilizing Computer Modeling
Authors: Mir Sabeer H. , Abdou Adel A.
Published: October 2005

Advancements in information and instruction technology have led to the evolution of a new type of classroom referred to as “smart classrooms”. These have enhanced audio-visual equipment, computers and seating layouts designed to facilitate interactive learning. Placement of different sound-absorbing finishes in an efficient manner improves the listening conditions within the classroom and reduces the amplification of internally generated noise such as that from computers and instructional equipment. This study investigates the best overall configuration of sound-absorbing material placement and characteristics of surface treatment in an attempt to enhance the listening conditions in smart classrooms. A typical layout of a smart classroom was modeled and simulated using room acoustics computer modeling. Acoustics indicators such as Reverberation Time (RT), Sound Clarity (C50) and Speech Transmission Index (STI) were used for comparing alternative cases in optimising sound-absorbing material characteristics and placement. Additionally, measurements were conducted in similar classrooms to assess the magnitude and characteristics of generated noise. To determine the impact of the resulting background noise simulations were carried out. The resulting configuration of sound-absorbing material for a typical smart classroom can also be utilized by architects and educational institutions to enhance the acoustics of existing conventional classrooms in the process of being converted or upgraded.
Structural Floor Vibration and Sound Isolation Design for a Magnetic Resonance Imaging System
Authors: Evans Jack B.
Published: October 2005

This is a case study about noise and vibration control problems, and the design constraints and solutions for a proposed installation of a magnetic resonance imaging system (MRI) in an existing medical research facility. Manufacturer's data indicated that airborne sound level emissions over a broad frequency span could exceed permissible noise criteria for nearby occupied rooms. The building structure also required reinforcement to accommodate the MRI magnet's concentrated load, but invasive disturbance to a transgenic research mouse vivarium on the floor below was prohibited. The structure borne vibration paths needed attenuation or isolation. Design parameters included structural strength, stiffness and the specific platform resonant frequency (non-coincident with known vibration sources or building structure). In addition, acoustical containment was required for anticipated noises from the magnet room, to prevent excessive or annoying and distracting noise in the MRI control room or other adjacent (but unrelated) research, animal holding and office spaces. Structural “de-tuning” and architectural “decoupling” concepts were employed. A resonant frequency criterion was recommended for the new structural floor design. A combination of vibration spectrum analysis, dynamic analyses of alternate structural concepts and existing physical conflict constraints led to the design of an independent platform floor above the existing building floor. Post construction floor vibration measurements were compared to earlier measurement data to show quantitative change in performance. The modifications satisfied acoustical criteria and occupants' subjective evaluations.
Coupled Volumes: Secondary Room Reverberance and the Double-Sloped Decay of Concert Halls
Authors: Ermann Michael
Published: October 2005

The coupled volume concert hall and its signature double sloped sound decay aim to partially reconcile the often-competing qualities of clarity and reverberance. A concert hall is conceived with a fixed geometric volume, form, and aperture size. A coupled volume is attached and its materiality is established as variable. Both statistical and geometric relative analyses suggest a highly sensitive relationship between the coupled volume reverberation time and the double-sloped condition.
Using round Robin Test Results for the Accreditation of Laboratories in the Field of Building Acoustics in Germany
Authors: Weise Wieland , Wittstock Volker
Published: October 2005

The assessment procedure currently used for the accreditation of building acoustics laboratories is given in the standard ISO 140-2. It is based on the deviations between values obtained in the new laboratory and round robin results whereupon the number of third-octave values outside of the critical differences is simply counted. A new procedure is proposed which additionally accounts for the amount of deviation from the round robin mean value. Thus, it can be considered as a refined continuously scaled version of the current procedure. The new method has been checked by applying it to the data from a round robin survey of a heavy test wall. Besides the comparison between individual laboratory results and round robin mean results, an additional single measurement, carried out in each laboratory, is proposed to verify the results.
Investigation of the Physical Mechanism of Walking Noise Radiation of Laminate Floor-Coverings
Authors: Jakob André , Volz Rudi , Möser Michael
Published: October 2005

This paper reports on an investigation of the physical mechanism of walking noise radiated by laminate floor coverings with and without backings. In pretests of single laminate panels the influence of different backings on the structural vibration of the panels was determined and material parameters like Young's modulus and bending stiffness were obtained. From these parameters the coincidence frequency could be estimated. The main tests were performed with hard rubber balls falling on laminate floor coverings of different sizes and with different backings. Results show that the radiated sound has a single frequency maximum, which is far below the coincidence frequency. From this and from confirming sound intensity measurements it follows that the sound radiation is a locally constrained phenomenon. Additionally, vibration measurements show that the near field of bending waves dominates the vibration and bending wave propagation can be neglected. The characteristics of the near field vibration and therefore the sound radiation can be controlled by the choice of backing of the laminate floor covering.
Effect of Column Parameters on Axial Compression Behavior of Concrete-Filled FRP Tubes
Authors: Zhu Zhenyu , Ahmad Iftekhar , Mirmiran Amir
Published: October 2005

Axial compression tests have shown fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) tubes to significantly enhance both strength and ductility of concrete columns. However, most experiments and associated models typically do not account for the internal reinforcement, size effect of the column, and the end load-bearing conditions of the tube. An experimental program was undertaken to evaluate the effect of these parameters on the performance of CFFT columns. Glass FRP tubes filled with plain, steel-reinforced, and glass FRP-reinforced concrete were tested with and without end grooves, which would prevent the tube from directly bearing of the axial load. The experiments showed the dowel action of the internal reinforcement to improve the ductility of the columns by restraining the lateral dilation of concrete core. Anempirically derived confinement model, augmented with the stress-strain response of the internal reinforcement, showed close agreement with test results.
Experimental Study on Intermediate Crack Debonding in FRP-Strengthened RC Flexural Members
Authors: Yao J. , Teng J. G. , Lam L.
Published: October 2005

A commonly observed failure mode of reinforced concrete (RC) flexural members strengthened with a fibre reinforced polymer (FRP) plate bonded to their tension face involves debonding that initiates at a major flexural or flexural shear crack and propagates towards a plate end, which has often been referred to as intermediate crack (IC) debonding. This paper first presents the results of IC debonding tests conducted on eighteen cantilever slabs in which IC debonding initiated at or near the fixed end, and four simply-supported slabs in three-point bending where IC debonding initiated at the load position. A number of factors are covered by these tests, including the type of FRP material, the width of FRP strip, the length of FRP strip, the slab width, the concrete strength, the longitudinal steel ratio, the concrete cover, and pre-cracking of concrete. The test results are next used to assess the accuracy of four available strength models that can be used to design against IC debonding. Of these four models, Teng et al's (2003) model is shown to provide safe predictions of the test results in most cases but can lead to overly conservative results; the scatter of the predictions is also large. The other three models from recent design guidelines (JSCE, 2001, fib 2001, ACI 440 2002) are not sufficiently safe for use in design. This assessment clearly illustrates the need for much further research to develop a more accurate IC debonding strength model.
Numerical Analysis and Experimental Study of Prestressed Diagonal-On-Square Composite Space Truss
Authors: Han Qinghua , Yuan Zhihua , Ying Ming , Liu Xiliang
Published: October 2005

The prestressed composite space truss (PCST) is a new kind of space structure composed of steel cables, steel tubes and reinforced concrete ribbed slabs. The prestressed steel cables are arranged in one direction or two directions within the plane of the bottom chord of the composite space truss. There are two main forms of PCST in practice; one is prestressed square on square offset composite space truss (PSSCST), the other is prestressed diagonal on square composite space truss (PDSCST). In this paper, the static behaviour of PDSCST is analyzed in detail using the linear finite element method. The first 10 natural frequencies of a PDSCST are calculated using the subspace iteration method and are found to be really close together, and all of the corresponding mode shapes are vertical vibrations. A simplified formula for calculating the first period is obtained by a linear regression method. The initial tension values in the cables to be applied during construction are calculated by the Release Tension Method which can also take into account the influence of different tensioning sequences. Finally, both the static behaviour of a PDSCST and the influence of different tensioning sequences are studied on a physical model test.
Performance of Double-T Prestressed Concrete Beams Strengthened with Steel Reinforcement Polymer
Authors: Casadei Paolo , Nanni Antonio , Alkhrdaji Tarek , Thomas Jay
Published: October 2005

In the fall of 2002, a two-storey parking garage in Bloomington, Indiana, built with precast prestrestressed concrete (PC) double-T beams, was decommissioned due to a need for increased parking-space. This led to the opportunity of investigating the flexural performance of the PC double-T beams, upgraded in the positive moment region with steel reinforced polymer (SRP) composite materials, representing the first case study where this material has been applied in the field. SRP makes use of high-strength steel cords embedded in an epoxy resin. This paper reports on the test results to failure of three beams: a control specimen, a beam strengthened with one ply of SRP and a third beam strengthened with two plies of SRP anchored at both ends with SRP U-wraps. Results showed that SRP can significantly improve both flexural capacity and enhance pseudo-ductility. Preliminary analytical work shows that the same approach used for externally bonded fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) can be satisfactorly used for SRP.
Behaviour of Steel Plated RC Columns Subject to Lateral Loading
Authors: Griffith M.C. , Wu Y.F. , Oehlers D.J.
Published: October 2005

The main focus of this paper is to describe the behaviour of RC columns that are retrofitted with an alternative technique to “jacketing” or wrapping. This new technique consists of attaching steel plates to the flexural faces of a concrete column using bolts. It is envisaged that this technique would be suitable primarily for columns having rectangular cross-sections and in situations where lateral loading induces predominately a single plane of bending (as opposed to biaxial bending). Effectiveness of this new technique has been demonstrated by experimental testing and numerical simulations. This paper studies the mechanism of the new retrofit scheme, how it works, and the behaviour of columns retrofitted using such a scheme, as well as the important parameters that affect the response of the retrofitted columns. This study forms the basis for the design of the plate retrofitting system.
Repair of Delaminated Beams Subjected to Compressive Force via Piezoelectric Layers
Authors: Wang Q. , Zhou G.Y. , Quek S.T.
Published: October 2005

The research in the paper presents the application of piezoelectric layers on repair of delaminated beams subjected to compressive force. The discontinuity of the shear stresses induced at the two tips of the delamination, which may result in the sliding mode of fracture, due to the bending of beams at the buckling mode is first studied from a mechanics model. The application of piezoelectric materials on repair of the delaminated beam structures is investigated by employing the electromechanical characteristics to remove the sliding mode of fracture at the tips of the delamination. A comprehensive mechanics analysis is provided to calculate and design the voltages on the piezoelectric layers to erase the shear stress discontinuity at the tips of the delamination. The dependence of the voltages on the location and the size of the delamination is carefully studied. Numerical simulations are conducted for the derivation of the buckling load of the delaminated beam with different boundary conditions and the voltages on the piezoelectric patches. The research presented serves to provide information on the design of piezoelectric materials for the repair of delaminated structures.
Nanotechnology in Civil Engineering
Authors: Chong K. P.
Published: October 2005

The transcendent technologies, which are the primary drivers of the twenty first century and the new economy, include nanotechnology, microelectronics, information technology and biotechnology as well as the enabling and supporting civil infrastructure systems and materials. Mechanics and materials are essential elements in all of the transcendent technologies. Research opportunities and challenges in mechanics and materials, including nanomechanics, carbon nano-tubes, bio-inspired materials, coatings, fire-resistant materials as well as improved engineering and design of materials are presented and discussed.
A Comprehensive Review of Seismic Critical Excitation Methods for Robust Design
Authors: Takewaki Izuru
Published: October 2005

A comprehensive review of strategic methods for seismic critical excitation (worst-case input) is provided to enhance the robustness of structures in the earthquake-prone region. It is inevitable that the structures in this region are subjected to disturbances including inherent uncertainties due mainly to their low rate of occurrence and worst-case analysis is expected to play an important role in avoiding difficulties induced by such uncertainties. During the last four decades, various critical excitation methods have been proposed extensively and applied to specific structural design problems, mainly for important structures of which the failure or collapse must be absolutely avoided. The degree of criticality of the extreme responses over the corresponding structural responses to recorded ground motions, deterministic or stochastic treatment, elastic or elastic-plastic responses, earthquake input energy and energy input rate indices, system-dependent critical excitations are major concerns of discussion.
Accounting for Primary and Secondary Demand Effects with Aggregate Data
Authors: Nair Harikesh , Dubé Jean-Pierre , Chintagunta Pradeep
Published: October 2005

Discrete choice models of aggregate demand, such as the random coefficients logit, can handle large differentiated products categories parsimoniously while still providing flexible substitution patterns. However, the discrete choice assumption may not be appropriate for many categories in which we expect consumers may purchase more than one unit of the selected item. We derive the aggregate demand system corresponding to a discrete/continuous household-level model of demand. We also propose a method-of-simulated-moments procedure that provides consistent estimates of the structural parameters when only aggregate data are available. The procedure also enables the researcher to control both for the potential endogeneity of marketing variables as well as potential heterogeneity in consumer tastes. Using our aggregate estimates, we can measure the decomposition of price elasticities into incidence, brand choice, and purchase quantity components. We also propose several empirical tests to assess the validity of the discrete/continuous demand system versus that of the logit model. In several simulation experiments, we demonstrate the robustness of this model across datasets in which quantity choices may or may not be important. Our empirical calibration to store-level data in the refrigerated orange juice category indicates a considerable improvement in fit of the observed aggregate sales using the discrete/continuous model.
Interferon Beta-1a Overdose in a Multiple Sclerosis Patient
Authors: Falcone Nicola P , Nappo Agostino , Neuteboom Berend
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVE

To report on a patient with multiple sclerosis (MS) who attempted suicide by taking an overdose of interferon (IFN) beta-1a.

CASE SUMMARY

A 38-year-old man with MS and depressive symptoms self-administered approximately 6 or 7 prefilled syringes containing 44 μg (12 MIU) of subcutaneous IFN beta-1a in a suicide attempt. Clinical examination in the emergency department revealed a modest rise in body temperature and diffuse redness of the skin of the limbs and truncal region. The patient's signs and symptoms resolved over the following 24 hours. IFN beta-1a was temporarily withdrawn and treatment with citalopram, which the patient had spontaneously discontinued before the suicide attempt, was resumed. Laboratory assessment showed no modifications in biochemical and hematologic parameters. The IFN beta-1a concentration in the serum sample taken at 48 hours after the suicide attempt confirmed that the patient had taken a very high dose of IFN.

DISCUSSION

Depression, a common condition in MS patients, was precipitated in this patient by the spontaneous discontinuation of citalopram and not influenced by IFN beta-1a therapy, which the patient resumed at 44 μg 3 times per week.

CONCLUSIONS

This case demonstrates the risks of depression in MS patients and the danger of discontinuing treatment with antidepressants. This report also shows that approximately 264–308 μg of IFN beta-1a, the highest single dose of IFN beta-1a reported taken by a human as of this writing, caused only a transient and self-limiting malaise.
Proton Pump Inhibitor Formulary Considerations in the Acutely Ill Part 2: Clinical Efficacy, Safety, and Economics
Authors: Devlin John W , Welage Lynda S , Olsen Keith M
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVE

To review, using an evidence-based approach, the clinical efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for treatment of common acid peptic disorders in the acutely ill and provide clinicians with guidance when making hospital formulary decisions with this class of agents.

DATA SOURCES

MEDLINE (1966–May 2005) and the Cochrane Library databases were searched using the key words proton pump inhibitor, acid suppression, peptic ulcer disease, gastrointestinal bleeding, stress ulcer prophylaxis, critical care, safety, and cost-effectiveness. Bibliographies of cited references were reviewed, and a manual search of abstracts from recent gastroenterology, critical care, and surgery scientific meetings was completed.

STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION

All articles identified from the data sources were evaluated, and all information deemed relevant was included for this review.

DATA SYNTHESIS

PPIs have become a mainstay for acute acid suppression in hospitalized patients. Various commercially available PPI products are available either enterally or parenterally for administration to patients unable to swallow a tablet or capsule. The results of studies comparing the clinical efficacy of different PPI dosage forms and routes of administration, safety considerations, and cost-effectiveness analyses are among the factors to consider when making formulary decisions for this class of drugs.

CONCLUSIONS

While the introduction of new PPI products has expanded the therapeutic options for acid suppression in acutely ill patients, a number of unresolved questions remain surrounding the interchangeability of these products, the clinical significance of one PPI formulation over the other, and how oral/enteral therapy should be used as step-down therapy after parenteral therapy.
Adherence to Medications by Patients After Acute Coronary Syndromes
Authors: Sud Anchal , Kline-Rogers Eva M , Eagle Kim A , Fang Jianming , Armstrong David F , Rangarajan Krishna , Otten Richard F , Stafkey-Mailey Dana R , Taylor Stephanie D , Erickson Steven R
Published: October 2005

BACKGROUND

Nonadherence to medication may lead to poor medical outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

To describe medication-taking behavior of patients with a history of acute coronary syndromes (ACS) for 4 classes of drugs and determine the relationship between self-reported adherence and patient characteristics.

METHODS

Consenting patients with the diagnosis of ACS were interviewed by telephone approximately 10 months after discharge. The survey elicited data characterizing the patient, current medication regimens, beliefs about drug therapy, reasons for discontinuing medications, and adherence. The survey included the Beliefs About Medicine Questionnaire providing 4 scales: Specific Necessity, Specific Concerns, General Harm, and General Overuse, and the Medication Adherence Scale (MAS). Multivariate regression was used to determine the independent variables with the strongest association to the MAS. A p value ≤0.05 was considered significant for all analyses.

RESULTS

Two hundred eight patients were interviewed. Mean ± SD age was 64.9 ± 13.0 years, with 60.6% male, 95.7% white, 57.3% with a college education, 87.9% living with ≥1 other person, and 42% indicating excellent or very good health. The percentage of patients continuing on medication at the time of the survey category ranged from 87.4% (aspirin) to 66.0% (angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors). Reasons for stopping medication included physician discontinuation or adverse effects. Of patients still on drug therapy, the mean MAS was 1.3 ± 0.4, with 53.8% indicating nonadherence (score >1). The final regression model showed R2 = 0.132 and included heart-related health status and Specific Necessity as significant predictor variables.

CONCLUSIONS

After ACS, not all patients continue their drugs or take them exactly as prescribed. Determining beliefs about illness and medication may be helpful in developing interventions aimed at improving adherence.
Hemolysis and Methemoglobinemia Secondary to Rasburicase Administration
Authors: Browning Linda A , Kruse James A
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVE

To report a case of hemolytic anemia and methemoglobinemia developing after rasburicase administration to a patient with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency.

CASE SUMMARY

A 50-year-old African American man was hospitalized with new onset seizure, diabetic ketoacidosis, respiratory failure, and acute renal failure. Serum uric acid concentrations were elevated, and the patient was treated with one dose of intravenous rasburicase 22.5 mg for acute renal failure secondary to hyperuricemia. Routine arterial blood gas analyses performed after rasburicase was administered revealed elevated methemoglobin concentrations, which peaked at 14.7%. Hemolytic anemia developed as evidenced by a fall in blood hemoglobin from 14.8 to 5.3 g/dL. The patient made a full recovery following aggressive fluid therapy, blood transfusions, and respiratory support. G6PD deficiency was subsequently confirmed. The Naranjo probability scale indicated that rasburicase was a probable cause of hemolytic anemia and methemoglobinemia.

DISCUSSION

Rasburicase is contraindicated in patients with G6PD deficiency as it may cause hemolytic anemia and methemoglobinemia. As of September 26, 2005, simultaneous occurrence of hemolytic anemia and methemoglobinemia has not been reported in patients receiving rasburicase.

CONCLUSIONS

As of September 26, 2005, screening for G6PD deficiency should be performed whenever possible prior to chemotherapy administration in patients at risk of developing tumor lysis syndrome.
A meta‐analytic review of the Big Five personality factors and accident involvement in occupational and non‐occupational settings
Authors: Clarke Sharon , T. Robertson Ivan
Published: October 2005

Although a number of studies have examined individual personality traits and their influence on accident involvement, consistent evidence of a predictive relationship is lacking due to contradictory findings. The current study reports a meta‐analysis of the relationship between accident involvement and the Big Five personality dimensions (extraversion, neuroticism, conscientiousness, agreeableness, and openness). Low conscientiousness and low agreeableness were found to be valid and generalizable predictors of accident involvement, with corrected mean validities of .27 and .26, respectively. The context of the accident acts as a moderator in the personality–accident relationship, with different personality dimensions associated with occupational and non‐occupational accidents. Extraversion was found to be a valid and generalizable predictor of traffic accidents, but not occupational accidents. Avenues for further research are highlighted and discussed.
Utilisation des TIC: adaptation et validation de trois echelles de mesure de variables affectives
Authors: De Serres Linda , Lafontaine Marc
Published: October 2005

À partir des travaux de Gardner (1985) réalisés en langues secondes et de son questionnaire d'attitudes et de motivation, trois échelles de mesure – soit les attitudes, la motivation et l'anxiété – ont été adaptées à une situation impliquant l'utilisation des TIC. La présente étude décrit les étapes d'adaptation et de validation de ces échelles. Les données ont été recueillies à deux reprises auprès des mêmes étudiants pour former une seule base de données. Les résultats obtenus des analyses de validité interne laissent voir l'importance de différencier les TIC en tant que source d'information, de l'ordinateur comme outil de travail. Les résultats de l'analyse factorielle font ressortir la proximité des concepts d'attitude et de motivation ainsi que la distinction de celui d'anxiété. Des suggestions sont émises pour améliorer les présentes échelles. Pour l'enseignant de L2 sensible à l'influence des variables affectives, cette étude fournit des échelles utilisables auprès d'apprenants ayant recours aux TIC.

Based on second language research by Gardner (1985) and his questionnaire for measuring attitudes and motivation, three scales pertaining to attitudes, motivation, and anxiety were adapted for use in a context involving information and communication technologies (ICTs). The present study describes the stages involved in adapting and validating these scales. The data were collected from the same students at two different times to create a single database. The results from analyses of internal validity suggest the importance of distinguishing between ICT use as a means of obtaining information and the tool itself. Factor analysis reveals that the constructs of attitude and motivation are highly related, whereas anxiety emerged as distinct. Recommendations are formulated concerning improvements to the present scales. For the L2 instructor aware of the importance of affective variables, this study provides scales that can be used with learners in an ICT context.
Grammaire de texte en contexte d'ALAO: une annee avec le didacticiel FreeText
Authors: Hamel Marie-Josee
Published: October 2005

Cet article présente FreeText, un didacticiel pour apprenants de français langue seconde (FLS) de niveau intermédiaire-avancé dont le concept didactique, élaboré par l'auteur à partir d'une approche en grammaire textuelle, propose une étude de la grammaire en contexte, par l'analyse de marques linguistiques qui caractérisent les textes. Y sont décrites les activités portant sur la compréhension et la production en langue seconde (L2) qui exploitent ce concept didactique dans FreeText, ainsi que les ressources et l'interface du didacticiel. La seconde partie de l'article fait le compte rendu d'une expérience pédagogique visant une première utilisation intensive de FreeText dans un contexte réel d'apprentissage, soit un cours universitaire de FLS. On y détaille le syllabus du cours, dont la démarche s'inscrit dans celle de FreeText et on y fait part des observations effectuées concernant la progression du groupe avec le didacticiel durant une année scolaire. La conclusion fait le point sur certaines compétences développées par les apprenants dans le contexte décrit et suggère quelques modifications qui faciliteraient l'utilisation de ce didacticiel.

This article introduces FreeText, a courseware program for intermediate-advanced learners of French as a second language (FSL). Based on an approach to text grammar developed by the author, it features the study of grammar in context through the analysis of various text components. The first part of the article describes how this pedagogical strategy applies to reading comprehension and writing activities, as well as the courseware resources and interface. The second part reports on an experiment in which FreeText was extensively used for the first time in an authentic teaching context involving a university FSL course. Following a description of the course syllabus, which took into account the pedagogical approach advocated by FreeText, an account of observations of how students adapted to this courseware throughout the academic year is provided. The conclusion focuses on certain skills developed by the learners during this period and makes recommendations for changes that could facilitate its use.
The Colombian Army in Korea, 1950-1954
Authors: Coleman Bradley Lynn
Published: October 2005

A diverse multinational coalition fought to defend South Korea between 1950 and 1953. The United Nations (UN) army featured combat divisions from industrialized countries, but also included units from small UN member states such as Colombia. This article examines the multinational campaign in Korea through coverage of the Colombian Army experience. It finds that the successful integration of the Colombia Battalion into the U.S.-led UN Command grew from the republic's larger relationship with the United States.
Give Credit Where Credit Is Due: The Dutch Role in the Development and Deployment of the Submarine Schnorkel
Authors: Jones Mark C
Published: October 2005

The Germans' attempt during World War II to use an air mast (schnorkel) on submerged submarines to reduce their heavy losses is reasonably well known to naval historians. What is not well known, especially to those historians using English-language sources, is how the Germans came to deploy such a novel approach to operating diesel-powered submarines. This article explains the Dutch contribution to the development of the schnorkel. The article discusses the Italian version of the schnorkel, the Dutch invention and use of the schnorkel, the German adaptation of the Dutch technology, and the British experimentation with a schnorkel.
Operation Super Sunrise? Japanese-United States Peace Feelers in Switzerland, 1945
Authors: Krebs Gerhard
Published: October 2005

In early 1945 Japanese navy circles in Berlin tried to begin peace negotiations with the United States. Using their contacts with the arms trader Friedrich Wilhelm Hack, they sent Commander Fujimura Yoshikazu to Switzerland, where he opened talks with Allen W. Dulles of the U.S. Office of Strategic Services. Though the Japanese navy and Foreign Ministry showed some interest, the peace attempts finally failed since neither side took the initiative to an official level. Fujimura confused his government by claiming that the Americans had made the first step, while the U.S. side waited for proof that the administration in Tokyo was backing the navy officer's initiative.