bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fabricating Nature
Authors: Vilbrandt Turlif , Pasko Alexander , Vilbrandt Carl
Published: November 2009

Nature and the world can be viewed as complex volumetric computation. Historically, humans have interacted with nature in a reductive and homogeneous manner. However, inexpensive digital computation is now extending our capabilities allowing us to understand the complexity of nature
and operate in and modify it as such. It is now possible to use computation to control matter, to design and fabricate natural solutions and objects creating a new class of human-made objects that allow more localized, dynamic, sustainable and natural interactions with the world. Unfortunately,
current digital design and fabrication systems have failed to fully capitalize on available computation. These systems are non-exact and fundamentally incapable of accurately representing real objects. Digital materialization proposes an approach, system and symbolic basis for two-way
conversion between reality and information, where reality is represented as information in a dimensionally correct and exact manner and is accessible to human understanding, modification and design.
Surrealist complex systems, parallel biology and the greening of architecture
Authors: Spiller Neil
Published: November 2009

Systems architecture and its associated parallel biology generate architectural forms that are both green and surreal by nature. The connection between systems architecture and Leo Lionni's fantastic book Parallel Botany are considered as architects are now starting to have the
ability to create great works of biological parallelism using technologies that are highly sur real, they are on top of the real.
Plectic architecture: towards a theory of the post-digital in architecture
Authors: Spiller Neil
Published: November 2009

My research is centred upon how architecture is invigorated by cyberspace, the blurred boundary between the virtual and the actual, and how the different parameters of these spaces can be used to inform one another. My early experience in practice was that buildings are limited by the
inert materials used to construct them and by the unimaginative ideas of what a building should look like and be. My research draws upon a variety of different disciplines to inform one architecture. The areas of research are multidisciplinary and include the changing status of the architectural
drawing, smart materials, computer-aided architectural drawing, computer-aided manufacture, emergent systems, responsive environments, the architectural design of cyberspace, interactivity, cybernetics and evolving systems and algorithmic design.

To create responsive, non-prescriptive designs
for architectural intervention was the starting point that led to an interest in the logic of algorithms and open-ended systems. These problem-solving diagrams used by computer programmers are very useful as a way of describing fluctuating conditions in responsive environments. This led to
an interest in other computing paradigms such as cellular automata, complexity and emergence. These and other ideas I attempted to bring into the arena of architectural design to help architects cope with the rapid growth of computational technology, which is starting to revolutionize the
way buildings are designed, drawn and built.

We are at another of the important perturbations in technology and epistemology that seems to affect us so often these days. Cell biology is the new cyber-space and nanotechnology. Once we fully understand the exact nature of how our world makes
us and, indeed how it sometimes kills us, we will be able to make true architectures of ecological connectability.

This is our profession's future. Small steps have been made, but much more remains to be done.
Hope as a Predictor of Interpersonal Suicide Risk
Authors: Davidson Collin L. , Wingate LaRicka R. , Rasmussen Kathy A. , Slish Meredith L.
Published: November 2009

The current study hypothesized that (1) hope would negatively predict burdensomeness, thwarted belongingness, and acquired capability to enact lethal injury; (2) hope would negatively predict suicidal ideation; and (3) the interpersonal suicide risk factors would predict suicidal ideation. Results indicated that hope negatively predicted burdensomeness and thwarted belongingness, but positively predicted acquired capability to enact suicide. Contrary to our second hypothesis, hope did not predict suicidal ideation, but interpersonal risk factors for suicide predicted suicidal ideation. Results are discussed in terms of implications for hope theory andJoiner's (2005)interpersonal risk factors for suicide, and for clinical practice.
Distinguishing Between Subgroups of Adolescents Who Self‐Harm
Authors: Hargus Emily , Hawton Keith , Rodham Karen
Published: November 2009

The differences in factors associated with subgroups of adolescents in the continuum of deliberate self‐harm (DSH) phenomena were investigated. In an anonymous self‐report survey of 6,020 adolescents aged 15 and 16 years, 3.2% of adolescents (5.3% females, 1.3% males) reported DSH with intent to die, 2.8% (4.3% females; 1.5% males) reported DSH without intent to die, and 15% (22.4% females; 8.5% males) reported thoughts of DSH without acts. Regression analysis indicated considerable overlap in vulnerability factors along the spectrum of DSH thoughts and acts. A uniquely distinct relationship was found between DSH of a friend and DSH without intent to die on one hand and DSH of a family member with DSH with intent to die on the other. Results indicate that familial and nonfamilial social influences on DSH behavior may be important in designing prevention programs and that educational programs for the promotion of psychological well‐being may be helpful for adolescents at any point along the spectrum of DSH that was examined.
Separation of 109Cd from silver targets by nanohematite
Authors: Sadeghi Mahdi , Karami H. , Sarabandi P. , Mirzaee M.
Published: November 2009

109Cd was produced at a cyclotron via
natAg(p, n) 109Cd reaction by irradiation of an electroplated target with 15 MeV protons. The obtained yield was 70 kBq/μA h. The separation was performed using hematite nano-particles as sorbent which were synthesized by a solid-state chemical reaction method. The effect of different parameters, such as pH and the sorbent concentration, on extraction efficiency were investigated. The phase morphology, nanostructure and size of nano-particles were studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The chemical and radionuclidic purity of 109Cd was determined by ICP-AES and HPGe detector gamma-ray spectrometry, respectively.
Determination of solubility parameters of cobalt(II) and indium(III) oxinates by tracer technique
Authors: Mandal M. , Sarkar (Sain) R. , Basu Sukalyan
Published: November 2009

Effects of different diluents on the extraction of cobalt(II) and indium(III) oxinate complexes have been studied using Co-60 and In-114m as radiotracers. Theory of regular solutions was applied for the determination of solubility parameters (δ) of cobalt oxinate and indium oxinate which were found to be 34.45 J1/2cm-3/2 and 34.03 J1/2 cm-3/2, respectively. Besides, distribution of each of the two complexes was studied in the mixtures of two solvents, assigned as good and poor solvents, in accordance with their individual behaviors. In both of the two cases, experimentally determined values of distribution-coefficient differed from those of calculated values which shows the importance of solute-solvent and solvent-solvent interaction in the present system.
Production and separation of no-carrier-added 93,94,95Tc from 9Be activated yttrium target
Authors: Maiti Moumita , Lahiri Susanta
Published: November 2009

Proton rich Tc radionuclides have been produced for the first time through 89Y(9Be, xn)93,94,95Tc reactions. In order to optimize the yield of a particular radionuclide of choice, batch yield of 93Tc, 94Tc and 95Tc have been measured at different incident energies using stacked-foil technique followed by off-line γ-spectrometry. No-carrier-added (nca) 93,94,95Tc radionuclides have been separated from bulk yttrium by liquid–liquid extraction (LLX) and solid–liquid extraction (SLX) techniques. Trioctylamine (TOA) diluted in cyclohexane was used as liquid anion exchanger in LLX in presence of HCl. SLX was carried out using cation and anion exchanger resin, DOWEX-50 and DOWEX-1, respectively, in HCl medium.
Evaluation of trace elements in chewing tobacco and snuff using instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA) and atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS)
Authors: Waheed S. , Siddique N. , Rahman S.
Published: November 2009

Nine samples of chewing tobacco, snuff, tobacco leaf and ash were analyzed using Instrumental Neutron Activation Analysis (INAA) and Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS). Almost all samples of chewing tobacco and snuff studied in this work contain substantial amounts of Mg, Mn, Na, K, V, Sc, Rb and Fe. Furthermore, varying amounts of Al, Ba, Ca, Ce, Co and Zn were also detected in all tobacco samples. Of the toxic elements which were determined using INAA, As, Sb and Hg were quantified in only few tobacco samples. However, other toxic elements, which were determined using AAS, such as Cu, Pb and Cd were detected in almost all samples of chewing tobacco and snuff. The concentration of majority of the detected elements is high in ash samples which imply that most elements in chewing tobacco and snuff may originate from the addition of ash.
Fish at Night and Birds by Day (Kemit VIII)
Authors: Klotz David
Published: November 2009

A new interpretation of Kemit VIII. The unusual expression “fish at night and birds by day” may allude to the solar cycle, not to fishing and fowling. This reading suggests that the protagonist, Au, is deceased, and not cavorting with a harem woman in Memphis as previous translations have assumed.
Ion Dynamics in Solid Polyelectrolyte Materials
Authors: Cramer Cornelia , Akgöl Yahya , Imre Árpád W. , Bhide Amthra , Schönhoff Monika
Published: November 2009

Frequency-dependent conductivities are a valuable tool for studying the ion dynamics on different time scales. We present and analyze conductivity spectra of two kinds of solid polyelectrolyte materials, viz. polylectrolyte multilayers (PEM) and polyelectrolyte complexes (PEC). The PEM spectra are taken as a function of relative humidy at ambient temperature. By contrast, the conductivity of different kinds of dried PEC is studied as a function of temperature. For both kinds of material classes we show that the MIGRATION concept developed by Funke and co-workers can be used to describe the experimental spectra over wide ranges in frequency, indicating that forward-backward hopping motions of small ions play a vital role in solid polyelectrolyte materials. Apart from these potentially successful hops, localized motions of charged particles are found to influence the conductivity spectra as well. Based on the shape of our conductivity spectra and their scaling properties, we arrive at important conclusions about the microscopic ion dynamics in PEM and PEC materials.
A Schematic Model for Multi-particle Dynamics in Ion Transport: From Mean Field to Non-mean Field Effects
Authors: Banhatti Radha D. , Heuer Andreas
Published: November 2009

Models of ion transport either consider the complex multi-particle ion interaction in an effective way such as the MIGRATION concept of Funke et al. or consider a single particle hopping scenario in appropriately chosen energy landscapes. Here we first summarize some important aspects of ionic transport, stressing in particular the relevance of interaction effects. Furthermore we review a recently presented schematic model of hopping particles interacting via harmonic forces. This system can be mapped on an effective two- (mean field case) or three-body problem (non-mean field case) and we quantify relaxation effects within linear response. We obtain analytical expressions for the observables, which can be readily compared with those of the MIGRATION concept. General implications of our results to ion transport is also discussed with reference to applicability of the mean field vs. the non mean field scenario for the case of coupled and glassy electrolytes.
Many-ion Dynamics: The Common View of CM and MC
Authors: León C. , Habasaki J. , Ngai K. L.
Published: November 2009

For solution of the problem of conductivity relaxation and diffusion of ions in ionic conductors with high density of ions, it is essential not to neglect treatment of the effects of many-ion dynamics. This view is shared by the Coupling Model (CM) and the MIGRATION CONCEPT (MC), although the treatment, emphasis and some predictions of the two models are different. Notwithstanding, a basic element is common to both models, namely the primitive relaxation, which performs two important functions. It terminates the caged ion dynamics at short times and initiates the many-ion dynamics at longer times. We demonstrate by experiments and molecular dynamics simulations the existence of the primitive relaxation, and the two functions it performs. The relation of the primitive relaxation time to the conductivity relaxation time predicted by the CM is shown to hold in all cases considered.
Structure, Electronic Structure and Defect Formation Energies of LixCo1-yNiyO2 as a Function of x (0<x<1) and y (y = 0, 0.5, 1)
Authors: Laubach Sonja , Laubach Stefan , Schmidt P. C. , Gröting Melanie , Albe Karsten , Jaegermann Wolfram , Wolf Walter
Published: November 2009

LixCoO2 and LixNiO2 (0.5<x<1) are prototype cathode materials in lithium ion batteries.Both systems show degradation and fatigue during electrochemical cycling. We have performed band structure calculations based on density-functional theory for a series of compounds Lix(Co,Ni)O2 (0<x<1). The distribution of the transition metals (TM) cobalt and nickel on TM sites as well as the electronic structure of these compounds is investigated with focus on the change of oxidation states of cobalt, nickel and oxygen during lithium de-intercalation. We also study the total energy as a function of the lithium content x, including the vibrational energy E
v and the formation energy of lithium vacancies E(VLi). It is found that E
v is small compared to E(VLi) and that E(VLi) is increasing with increasing x for all systems.
Micro/meso-scale computational study of dislocation-stacking-fault tetrahedron interactions in copper
Authors: Marian Jaime , Martínez Enrique , Lee Hyon-Jee , Wirth Brian D.
Published: November 2009

In a carbon-free economy, nuclear power will surely play a fundamental role as a clean and cost-competitive energy source. However, new-generation nuclear concepts involve temperature and irradiation conditions for which no experimental facility exists, making it exceedingly difficult to predict structural materials performance and lifetime. Although the gap with real materials is still large, advances in computing power over the last decade have enabled the development of accurate and efficient numerical algorithms for materials simulations capable of probing the challenging conditions expected in future nuclear environments. One of the most important issues in metallic structural materials is the degradation of their mechanical properties under irradiation. Mechanical properties are intimately related to the glide resistance of dislocations, which can be increased severalfold due to irradiation-produced defects. Here, we present a combined multiscale study of dislocation-irradiation obstacle interactions in a model system (Cu) using atomistic and dislocation dynamics simulations. Scaling laws generalizing material behavior are extracted from our results, which are then compared with experimental measurements of irradiation hardening in Cu, showing good agreement.
Plasticity improvement of Zr55Al10Ni5Cu30 bulk metallic glass by remelting master alloy ingots
Authors: Hu Yong , Li Jinfu , Lin Tao , Zhou Yaohe
Published: November 2009

The effect of repeated melting of master alloy ingots on the bending properties of Zr55Al10Ni5Cu30 bulk metallic glass (BMG) was investigated. The bending plasticity of Zr55Al10Ni5Cu30 BMG was found to be improved with the increased remelting times. When remelted 10 times, the BMG sample cast from the master alloy ingot undergoes bending, but it does not fracture even though the bending angle increases to 100°; the maximum bending stress and elastic strain remain almost constant. The bending plasticity improvement may be attributed to the fact that the increased remelting times result in more free volume and more disorder and homogeneous microstructure in the BMG, which favors the initial nucleation of profuse shear bands and reduces the probability of catastrophic fracture.
Relation of Sn whisker formation to intermetallic growth: Results from a novel Sn–Cu “bimetal ledge specimen”
Authors: Reinbold Lucine , Jadhav Nitin , Chason Eric , Sharvan Kumar K.
Published: November 2009

Sn whisker formation was studied in a “bimetal ledge specimen” that consisted of a uniform layer of Sn that was covered by Cu on only half the sample. Whiskers are observed to grow in the Cu-free region of the sample, which is attributed to stress generated by the diffusion of Sn atoms along the network of columnar grain boundaries. The Sn diffusion is driven by the intermetallic growth, but the whisker density extends out much further than any measurable Cu concentration. Whiskers were also observed to grow in the Cu-coated region by punching through the overlayer, leaving a Cu-grain on the tip of the Sn whisker.
Strong below-band gap absorption of N-rich side GaNSb by metal-organic chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Moon Se-Hoon , Do Hyung-A , Park Joonmo , Ryu Sang-Wan
Published: November 2009

Metalorganic chemical vapor deposition was used to grow N-rich side GaNSb alloys under different growth conditions, and, for the first time, a considerable amount of Sb was incorporated into the GaNSb. The amount of Sb increased as the growth temperature decreased, but the maximal Sb content seemed to be limited by the solid solubility of Sb in GaN. Absorption spectroscopy of the GaNSb revealed a strong absorption band below the band gap of GaN. The below-band gap absorption extended to 0.8 eV, which makes GaNSb a promising material to serve as an infrared absorption layer on GaN.
Formation, microstructure, and mechanical properties of in situ Mg–Ni–(Gd,Nd) bulk metallic glass composite
Authors: Yin Jian , Yuan Guangyin , Chu Zhenhua , Zhang Jian , Ding W.J.
Published: November 2009

Based on a ternary Mg75Ni15Gd10 metallic glass former, a new Mg80Ni12Gd4Nd4 bulk metallic glass composite (BMGC) was developed by tailoring the compositions of Mg and rare earth (RE) elements. This BMGC displayed compressive ultimate strength over 900 MPa with a total strain to failure of 4.3% and specific strength of 3.12 × 105 Nm/kg. The improved mechanical properties were attributed to a “dual phases” structure consisting of Mg solid solution flakes and glassy matrix in the Mg80Ni12Gd4Nd4 BMGC. The homogeneously dispersed Mg phases reinforcement in the BMGC were characterized as a long period ordered structure (LPOS) with periodic arrays of six close-packed planes distorted from the ideal hexagonal lattice of 6H-type. The LPOS-Mg in the composite can act as a soft media to trap or interact with the unstable shear bands and contribute to plastic strain. The present study may provide a guideline for designing the Mg–TM–RE-based (TM: transition metals) BMGCs with “dual phases” structures.
Sol-gel-derived glass scaffold with high pore interconnectivity and enhanced bioactivity
Authors: Marques Ana C. , Almeida Rui M. , Thiema Amath , Wang Shaojie , Falk Matthias , Jain Himanshu
Published: November 2009

We report on the preparation of a bioactive CaO–SiO2 monolithic scaffold with interconnected bimodal nanomacro porosity, which simulates the morphology of a natural trabecular bone, by a newly developed modified sol-gel process. This method inherently creates nanopores, whose average diameter can be tailored to approximately 5–20 nm by solvent exchange. To achieve interconnected macroporosity (pores ∼5–300 μm in size), a polymer [poly(ethylene oxide)] is added, which causes phase separation simultaneously with the sol-gel transition. High-resolution scanning electron microscopy and mercury intrusion porosimetry demonstrate a high degree of three-dimensional interconnectivity and sharp distributions of pore size. In vitro bioactivity tests in simulated body fluid (SBF) show bioactivity of the material after soaking for approximately 5 h, as verified by the formation of a hydroxyapatite layer deep into the scaffold structure. Analysis of the SBF after the reaction indicates the dissolution of the samples, another desired feature of temporary scaffolds for bone regeneration. MG63 osteoblast-like cells seeded on our sol-gel glass samples responded better to samples with nanopores enlarged by a solvent exchange process than to the one with normal nanopores. Thus, the benefits of the high surface area achieved by sol-gel and solvent exchange procedures are most clearly demonstrated for the first time.
Synthesis and characterization of monodisperse metalloporphyrin nanospheres
Authors: Li Chunhui , Wang Wanjie , Cao Yanxia
Published: November 2009

Uniform monodisperse nanospheres of tetra-kis(4-methoxylphenyl) porphynatemanganese (III) chloride [MnIII(TMOPP)Cl] of about 200 nm have been synthesized through a facile surfactant-assisted reprecipitation method at room temperature. Scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscope, infrared spectrum, ultraviolet–visible spectrum, and elemental analysis were adopted to characterize the as-prepared metalloporphyrin nanostructures. The influence factors in the reaction to the sizes and morphologies of porphyrin nanoparticles were discussed. The sizes of porphyrin nanoparticles were affected mainly by the porphyrin concentration and only monodisperse nanoshperes with high uniformity in sizes and shapes can self-assemble to form order two-dimensional superstructures.
Women’s Appraisals of Intimate Partner Violence Stressfulness and Their Relationship to Depressive and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms
Authors: Martinez-Torteya Cecilia , Bogat G. Anne , von Eye Alexander , Levendosky Alytia A. , Davidson William S.
Published: November 2009

Intimate partner violence (IPV) increases risk for depressive and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. Most studies use a dose–response approach to examine the impact of IPV on mental health, but they often fail to explain mental health outcome specificity as well as to assess the impact of women’s subjective appraisals. The present research examined women’s IPV stressfulness appraisals and their psychological functioning (depressive and PTSD symptoms). Results indicate that IPV stressfulness appraisals are associated with depressive symptoms over and above frequency and severity of IPV. PTSD symptoms were associated with frequent and stressful IPV. Women who experienced highly frequent and highly stressful IPV were most likely to display comorbid depressive and PTSD symptoms. Results underscore the importance of women’s subjective experiences and the heterogeneity of women’s responses to IPV.
On-going evaluation of the WFD 2000/60/EC implementation process in the European Union, seven years after its launch: are we behind schedule?
Authors: Kanakoudis V. , Tsitsifli S.
Published: November 2009

Although the European Union (EU) has made some considerable progress regarding protection of water resources (tackling significant problems at national and at EU level), increased efforts are still needed to get and keep its waters clean. After 30 years of developing EU water legislation, all the involved stakeholders express this demand. In 2000, the Water Framework Directive (WFD) 2000/60/EC, establishing a framework for Community actions regarding protection of water resources, was adopted. Its implementation is now well underway, as most of the EU-Member States have fulfilled their current obligations of submitting their reports. An on-going evaluation of the WFD implementation process is attempted here, based on all available data seven years after its launch. Special focus is given to Greece regarding problems that have occurred.
Protecting water resources in biofuels production
Authors: Huffaker Ray
Published: November 2009

The Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 mandates a five-fold increase in current biofuels production. This will substantially increase the current production of corn-based ethanol despite widespread concerns over its negative impact on the availability and quality of already stressed water resources. The National Academy of Sciences' (NAS) recently-released report on water use in biofuels production (principally corn-based ethanol) proposes improved on-farm irrigation efficiency and water recycling within biorefineries to reduce the impact on water availability. In a classic case of unintended consequences, we demonstrate that these measures may decrease the sustainability of biofuels production by increasingly stressing water supplies. Instead, these measures may be more effective in reducing the water quality impact of biofuels production—a role that the NAS report does not emphasize.
The Beneficial Effects of Anticipating Anxiety-Related Symptoms: An Investigation of Paradoxical-Success Imagery in the Laboratory
Authors: de la Peña Derek
Published: November 2009

This study investigated the efficacy of a paradoxical imagery strategy that consisted of participants imaging themselves experiencing symptoms characteristic of competitive anxiety, prior to executing a golf-chip shot. Forty male golfers of moderate skill level participated in a two-day experiment conducted in the laboratory. Wegner's (1994) theory of ironic processes of mental control served as the theoretical framework. In addition to the paradoxical component, the imagery technique (paradoxical-success imagery) of interest included additional substantiated components: cognitive specific (i.e., skill), motivational general-mastery (i.e., confidence/focus), kinesthetic, and positive-outcome imagery (Martin et al., 1999). Participants employing the paradoxical imagery strategy showed significant performance improvement in both competitive and pressure situations compared to pre-treatment levels. The findings suggest that paradoxical-success imagery can potentially facilitate performance, when combined with appropriate imagery components and training. Practical implications, potential drawbacks, and suggestions for future research with paradoxical imagery are discussed.
Differentiation of benign from malignant nonpalpable breast masses: A comparison of computer-assisted quantification and visual assessment of lesion stiffness with the use of sonographic elastography
Authors: Chung Se Yeong , Moon Woo Kyung , Choi Ji Won , Cho Nariya , Jang Mijung , Kim Kwang Gi
Published: November 2009

Background: Elastography has shown potential in differentiating benign from malignant breast tumors, but interobserver variability between experienced and inexperienced readers limits its wide usage.

Purpose: To compare the diagnostic performance of computer-assisted quantification and visual assessment of lesion stiffness with the use of sonographic elastography for the differentiation of benign from malignant nonpalpable breast masses.

Material and Methods: Sonographic elasticity images of 120 nonpalpable breast masses (70 benign and 50 malignant masses) were obtained in 120 women prior to performing a core biopsy. After subtraction of B-mode images from color elasticity images, the mean strain value of the lesion was computed. Elasticity images were also reviewed and were assigned a score on a five-point scale by two breast radiologists in consensus. Results were evaluated by using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis.

Results: The mean ± standard deviation values of strain were 221±18 for malignant lesions and 175±21 for benign lesions ( P<0.001). For the elasticity score, the mean score was 3.5±0.1 for the malignant masses and 2.0±0.9 for the benign masses ( P<0.001). The overall Pearson's correlation coefficient between the strain values and elasticity score was 0.689 ( P<0.001). The area under the ROC curve (Az) value was 0.878 for use of the computer-assisted quantification method and 0.850 for visual assessment by the radiologists. The difference was not statistically significant ( P=0.198).

Conclusion: Computer-assisted quantification and visual assessment of lesion stiffness with the use of sonographic elasticity images had comparable diagnostic performance for the differentiation of nonpalpable breast masses.
Timing of Cholecystectomy for Acute Biliary Pancreatitis
Authors: Chowdhury M Mohsen
Published: November 2009

Background : Biliary stones are the leading cause of acute pancreatitis. Although cholecystectomy and selective endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (ERC) comprise the current treatment in patients with acute biliary pancreatitis (ABP), the time of intervention is still controversial. Objective : In this study the outcomes of cholecystectomy was evaluated. Methods : on first admission for ABP and in patients with recurrent biliary pancreatitis. A series of 45 patients with ABP between January 2003 and November 2008 were evaluated retrospectively. Patients were classified into two groups. Group I included 30 patients who underwent cholecystectomy on first admission before discharge from the hospital. Group II comprised of 15 patients who had recurrent biliary pancreatitis and then underwent cholecystectomy. The severity of the pancreatitis was determined by Ranson's criteria. Age, gender, length of hospital stay, severity of pancreatitis, amylase level, and complications of cholecystectomy were evaluated in both groups. Patients in group I underwent cholecystectomy during the first hospital admission and patients in group II during an admission for a recurrence. Results: there were 24 patients with a Ranson's score 3 in group I and 12 in group II. The mean hospital stays were 15.29 days (range 4-48 days) and 36.66 days (range 15-123 days) in groups I and II, respectively (p = 0.006). Morbidity was 11% without mortality in group I and 43% with one mortality in group II (p = 0.023). Conclusions: Definitive treatment of ABP can be accomplished effectively and safely by cholecystectomy following clinical improvement, with selective ERC performed during the first admission (delayed cholecystectomy). Waiting to perform cholecystectomy (interval cholecystectomy) may result in recurrent biliary pancreatitis, which may increase morbidity and the length of the hospital stay. Key words : Timing of cholecystectomy, acute biliary pancreatitisDOI: 10.3329/bsmmuj.v1i1.3690 BSMMU J 2008; 1(1): 11-14
Chronic Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation: A Case Report
Authors: Azad Md Abul Kalam , Kader M Abdul , Chowdhury M Abdul Jalil , Ahmed Tofayel
Published: November 2009

In health there is a balance between the coagulation and anti-coagulation systems, but in disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) the coagulation mechanism is activated inappropriately and in a diffuse way. This may lead to thrombosis, but more often haemorrhage occurs when the clotting factors are exhausted. DIC may present as acute, subacute, and rarely chronic form. Here we present a case of chronic DIC following pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) as a consequence of repeated menstruation regulation (MR). We treated her with fresh frozen plasma, fresh blood, doxycycline with significant clinical improvement.DOI: 10.3329/bsmmuj.v1i1.3696 BSMMU J 2008; 1(1): 33-34
Duality, Opposition and Typology in the Qur'an: The Apocalyptic Substrate
Authors: Lawson Todd
Published: November 2009

This article highlights two features of Qur'anic style and content: duality/opposition and typological figuration, which can be seen as providing a continuous and consistent ‘narrative stream’ through the Qur'an. It is of some interest that both of these features have been singled out as distinctive of apocalypse as a genre in the study of numerous religious and cultural traditions. As debate on whether or not the Qur'an is a bona fide example of apocalyptic literature quietly continues, the interplay of conceptual and substantive oppositions and dualities is discussed in order to highlight the importance of this prominent feature to both the form and contents of the Book. It is suggested that its function is profoundly related to the typological figuration indispensable to the Qur'anic depiction of, for example, the character of the prophets and therefore prophethood. Whether or not this represents a genuine instance of apocalyptic literature, it nonetheless remains that the prominence of the motif renders the Qur'an susceptible of a reading expressive of something called an apocalyptic imagination. It is hoped that this article succeeds in demonstrating that in fact these apparently familiar subjects are stimulated to new life by considering them as defining, interlocking, structural elements of a distinctive Islamic apocalypse.
The Relation of the Ten Readings to One Another
Authors: Melchert Christopher
Published: November 2009

A randomly selected sample of ayas over which there are disagreements among the Ten Readers is analysed in two ways. First, agreements and disagreements among them are counted to see whether there are regular patterns to these. The strongest tendencies to agree unite Khalaf with two of the Kufan readers before him, Ḥamza and al-Kisāʾī, while the strongest tendencies to disagree divide Ḥamza from Ibn Kathīr and Nāfiʿ. However, no pattern of agreement or disagreement seems very predominant, suggesting that the Ten were not strongly influenced by regional traditions, also that traditional identifications of teachers and students do little to explain actual choices of readings.

Secondly, the nature of disagreements is analysed. A majority of disagreements have to do with vowels to supply, most of them in turn not conceivably reflecting dialectal differences. About one in eight disagreements has to do with whether to place dots above or below the line, and there are several other less important sources of disagreement. Altogether, there is remarkable agreement among the Readers at the level of the consonantal outline. Disagreements over vowels and dots seem to reflect some mixture of reason and transmission from earlier readers, the part of transmission apparently increasing over time.
‘Killing’ in the Qur'anic Text: A Study on the Discourse of the Imperative
Authors: Sarḥān Haytham
Published: November 2009

This article surveys the textual, lexical and hermeneutical aspects of ‘killing’ in the Qur'an in the context of the discourse of the imperative, considered to be of paramount importance in the fields of ʿilm al-maʿānī wa'l-balāgha and Islamic jurisprudence. To this end the study adopts three different analytical paradigms. It first utilises a textual approach to survey occurrences of the verb q-t-l in the Qur'an in the context of the imperative. Then a lexical and pragmatic paradigm is applied in order to cast light on the meanings of ‘killing’. The third approach taken is hermeneutic, examining the works of mufassirūn and their analyses and interpretations of the verb, again in the context of the discourse of the imperative. These approaches are also informed by the concepts and tools of modern linguistics.
Antiplasmodial Activities of Homogentisic Acid Derivative Protein Kinase Inhibitors Isolated from a Vanuatu Marine Sponge Pseudoceratina sp.
Authors: Lebouvier Nicolas , Jullian Valérie , Desvignes Isabelle , Maurel Séverine , Parenty Arnaud , Dorin-Semblat Dominique , Doerig Christian , Sauvain Michel , Laurent Dominique
Published: November 2009

As part of our search for new antimalarial drugs in South Pacific marine sponges, we have looked for inhibitors of Pfnek-1, a specific protein kinase of Plasmodium falciparum. On the basis of promising activity in a preliminary screening, the ethanolic crude extract of a new species of Pseudoceratina collected in Vanuatu was selected for further investigation. A bioassay-guided fractionation led to the isolation of a derivative of homogentisic acid [methyl (2,4-dibromo-3,6-dihydroxyphenyl)acetate, 4a] which inhibited Pfnek-1 with an IC50 around 1.8 μM. This product was moderately active in vitro against a FcB1 P. falciparum strain (IC50 = 12 μM). From the same sponge, we isolated three known compounds [11,19-dideoxyfistularin-3 (1), 11-deoxyfistularin-3 (2) and dibromo-verongiaquinol (3)] which were inactive against Pfnek-1. Synthesis and biological evaluation of some derivatives of 4a are reported.
Hypocholesterolemic Effects of Nutraceuticals Produced from the Red Microalga Porphyridium sp. in Rats
Authors: Dvir Irit , Stark Aliza Hannah , Chayoth Reuven , Madar Zecharia , Arad Shoshana Malis
Published: November 2009

Red microalgae contain functional sulfated polysaccharides (containing dietary fibers), polyunsaturated fatty acids, zeaxanthin, vitamins, minerals, and proteins. Studies in rat models support the therapeutic properties of algal biomass and isolated polysaccharides. Algal products incorporated into rat diets were found to significantly improve total serum cholesterol, serum triglycerides, hepatic cholesterol levels, HDL/LDL ratios and increased fecal excretion of neutral sterols and bile acids. Morphological and metabolic changes were induced by consumption of algal products. These results suggest that red microalgae can be used as potent hypocholesterolemic agents, and they support the potential use of red microalgae as novel nutraceuticals.
Tetraquark Spectroscopy: A Symmetry Analysis
Authors: Vijande Javier , Valcarce Alfredo
Published: November 2009

We present a detailed analysis of the symmetry properties of a four-quark wave function and its solution by means of a variational approach for simple Hamiltonians. We discuss several examples in the light and heavy-light meson sector.
Bunyaviruses and the Type I Interferon System
Authors: Elliott Richard  M. , Weber Friedemann
Published: November 2009

The family Bunyaviridae contains more than 350 viruses that are distributed throughout the world. Most members of the family are transmitted by arthopods, and several cause disease in man, domesticated animals and crop plants. Despite being recognized as an emerging threat, details of the virulence mechanisms employed by bunyaviruses are scant. In this article we summarise the information currently available on how these viruses are able to establish infection when confronted with a powerful antiviral interferon system.
Options for Diabetes Management in Sub-Saharan Africa with an Electronic Medical Record System
Authors: Kouematchoua Tchuitcheu G. , Rienhoff O.
Published: November 2009

Background: An increase of diabetes prevalence of up to 80% is predicted in subSaharan Africa (SSA) by 2025 exceeding the worldwide 55%. Mortality rates of diabetes and HIV/AIDS are similar. Diabetes shares several common factors with HIV/AIDS and multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB). The latter two health problems have been efficiently managed by an open source electronic medical record system (EMRS) in Latin America. Therefore a similar solution for diabetes in SSA could be extremely helpful.

Objectives: The aim was to design and validate a conceptual model for an EMRS to improve diabetes management in SSA making use of the HIV and TB experience.

Methods: A review of the literature addressed diabetes care and management in SSA as well as existing examples of information and communication technology (ICT) use in SSA. Based on a need assessment conducted in SSA a conceptual model based on the traditionally structured healthcare system in SSA was mapped into a three-layer structure. Application modules were derived and a demonstrator programmed based on an open source EMRS. Then the approach was validated by SSA experts.

Results: A conceptual model could be specified and validated which enhances a problem-oriented approach to diabetes management processes. The prototyp EMRS demonstrates options for a patient portal and simulation tools for education of health professional and patients in SSA.

Conclusion: It is possible to find IT solutions for diabetes care in SSA which follow the same efficiency concepts as HIV or TB modules in Latin America. The local efficiency and sustainability of the solution will, however, depend on training and changes in work behavior.
Time Process Study with UML
Authors: Shiki N. , Fujii A. , Murata T. , Matsumura Y. , Ohno Y.
Published: November 2009

Objectives: We propose a new business-process analysis approach, Time Process Study (TPS), which comprises process analysis and time and motion studies (TMS). TPS offsets weaknesses of TMS; the cost of field studies and the difficulties in applying them to tasks whose time span differs from those of usual tasks.

Methods: In TPS, the job procedures are first displayed using a unified modeling language (UML). Next, time and manpower for each procedure are studied through interviews and TMS, and the information is appended to the UML diagram. We applied TPS in the case of a hospital-based cancer registry (HCR) of a university hospital to clarify the work procedure and the time required, and investigated TPS’s availability.

Results: Meetings for the study were held once a month from July to September in 2008, and one inquirer committed a total of eight hours to the hospital survey. TPS revealed that HCR consisted of three tasks and 14 functions. The registration required 123 hours/month/ person, the quality control required 6.5 hours/ 6 months/person and filing data into the population-based cancer registry required 0.5 hours/6 months/person. Of the total tasks involved in registration, 116.5 hours/month/ person were undertaken by a registration worker, which shows the necessity of employing one full-time staff.

Conclusion: With TPS, it is straightforward to share the concept among the study-team because the job procedure is first displayed using UML. Therefore, it requires a few workload to conduct TMS and interview. The obtained results were adopted for the review of staff assignment of HCR by Japanese government.
EXPLORING CRITICAL SUCCESS FACTORS FOR STAKEHOLDER MANAGEMENT IN CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS
Authors: Yang Jing , Shen Geoffrey Qiping , Ho Manfong , Drew Derek S. , Chan Albert P. C.
Published: November 2009

With a focus on different aspects of stakeholder management, various sets of critical success factors (CSFs) have been suggested in the literature. It is crucial to explore the relative importance and groupings of these factors. This paper aims to identify CSFs associated with stakeholder management in construction projects, and explore their ranking and underlying relationship. 15 CSFs were identified through a literature review, and consolidated by interviews and pilot studies with professionals in construction industry. A questionnaire instrument containing these 15 CSFs was sent out to project managers in Hong Kong, and 183 completed questionnaires were retrieved. The top three ranked factors for stakeholder management were “managing stakeholders with social responsibilities”, “assessing the stakeholders’ needs and constraints to the project”, and “communicating with stakeholders properly and frequently”. Using factor analysis and considering the high importance of the factor “managing stakeholders with social responsibilities”, the 15 CSFs were grouped into five dimensions namely, precondition factor, stakeholder estimation, information inputs, decision making, and sustainable support. All these five groupings and their relationship were included in a framework for successful stakeholder management in construction projects. These findings help to clarify what the high prioritized factors are, and could also be used as an assessment tool to evaluate the performance of stakeholder management and thus help to identify areas for improvement. Santrauka Atsižvelgiant į skirtingus suinteresuotųjų šalių valdymo aspektus, literatūroje siūlomi įvairūs kritinių sėkmės veiksnių (KSV) kompleksai. Svarbiausia yra sugrupuoti šiuos veiksnius ir nustatyti jų santykinį reikšmingumą. Šio straipsnio tikslas – nustatyti KSV, susijusius su suinteresuotųjų šalių valdymu statybos projektuose, išnagrinėti jų prioritetus ir pagrindinius tarpusavio ryšius. 15 KSV buvo nustatyta remiantis literatūros analize, statybos šakos profesionalų apklausomis ir eksperimentinėmis studijomis. Projektų valdytojams Honkonge išsiųstas klausimynas ir gauti 183 atsakymai. Trys aukščiausiai įvertinti veiksniai: projektų dalyvių socialinė atsakomybė, suinteresuotųjų šalių poreikių ir apribojimų įvertinimas, tinkamas ir dažnas bendradarbiavimas su suinteresuotomis šalimis. Naudojantis veiksnių analize ir atsižvelgiant į tai, kad socialinės atsakomybės rodiklis vertinamas kaip labai reikšmingas, 15 KSV suskirstyti į 5 grupes: išankstinių veiksnių, suinteresuotųjų grupių nustatymo, informacijos rinkimo, sprendimų priėmimo ir subalansuotos paramos. Visos šios grupės bei jų ryšiai buvo įtraukti į sistemą, skirtą sėkmingam suinteresuotųjų šalių valdymui statybos projektuose. Šie duomenys padeda paaiškinti, kokiems veiksniams suteikiamas prioritetas ir gali būti naudojami suinteresuotųjų šalių valdymo įgyvendinimui įvertinti bei tobulintinoms sritims nustatyti.
EVALUATION METHODS FOR CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS
Authors: Park Moonseo , Chu Yongsik , Lee Hyun-Soo , Kim Wooyoung
Published: November 2009

Financial evaluation methods such as Net Present Value (NPV) and Internal Rate of Return (IRR) are not fully adequate for accounting three practical aspects of construction projects: reinvestment rate, actual amount of required investment, and firm available funds. In a certain type of projects, this inadequacy often results in the inapplicability of NPV, multiple or no IRR problem, systematic bias of IRR, and inconsistent decision signal and ranking between NPV and IRR. Many modified methods have been developed, but hardly succeeded in reflecting construction market reality in an integrated manner. To address this issue, Project Present Value, Project Rate of Return, and Firm Rate of Return are proposed together with an investment decision framework. The proposed methods are designed to be free from all those problems, while incorporating market reality in them. As a result, construction practitioners would have more reliable and economically meaningful decision tools, which lead to the success of their projects.

Santrauka

Finansiniai įvertinimo metodai, kaip dabartinės vertės (DV) arba vidinės grąžos (VG), neadekvačiai vertina tris praktinius statybos projektų aspektus: reinvestavimo greitį, tikrąjį investicijų ir kapitalo poreikį. Dėl to neadekvatumo tam tikrai projektų rūšiai minėtųjų metodų iš viso neįmanoma pritaikyti. Sukurta daug modifikuotų metodų, tačiau jie sunkiai atspindi statybos rinkos tikrovę integruota forma. Tam pasiūlyta investicinių sprendimų sistema, į kurią integruoti trys metodai: dabartinės projekto vertės, projekto vidinės grąžos ir įmonės apyvartumo. Pasiūlytieji metodai gali įvertinti rinkos realybę. Dabar statybos gamybininkai turės patikimesnes ekonomiškai reikšmingas priemones sprendimams priimti ir galės sėkmingiau įgyvendinti savo projektus.