bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hospice-Assisted Death? A Study of Oregon Hospices on Death with Dignity
Authors: Campbell Courtney S. , Cox Jessica C.
Published: August 2011

Nearly 90% of terminally ill patients who have used Oregon’s distinctive death with dignity law to receive a medication to end their lives are enrolled in hospice care programs. In 2009-2010, we conducted a study of the policies developed by Oregon hospices to address patient inquiries and requests for death with dignity. The study examined the stated hospice values and positions and identified the boundaries to participation drawn by the hospice programs to protect personal and programmatic integrity. The boundaries were drawn around 6 key caregiving considerations: (1) language regarding physician-assisted death (PAD); (2) informed decision making by patients; (3) collaboration with physicians; (4) provision of lethal medication; (5) assistance in the patient’s act of taking the medication; and (6) staff presence at the time of medication ingestion.
The Experience of Physicians Who Refer Latinos to Hospice
Authors: Colón Merydawilda
Published: August 2011

This study explores the referral experience of physicians who refer Latinos to end-of-life care and challenges associated with the referral process. Qualitative data were collected in New Jersey through semistructured, open-ended interviews. Six physicians participated in this study: 1 oncologist, 2 internists, 1 gerontologist, and 2 infectious disease specialists. The study reveals that language barriers, level of family involvement, and generational group of the patient and the family contribute to the complexity of the physician’s experience. Physicians’ comments evidence the importance of culturally competent training in medical school and continued education on this topic for physicians who did not receive such training. Bilingual bicultural hospice admissions’ staff available at the physician’s office could enhance the referral experience.
Assessing Challenges in End-of-Life Conversations With Elderly Patients With Multiple Morbidities
Authors: Schonfeld Toby L. , Stevens Elizabeth A. , Lampman Michelle A. , Lyons William L.
Published: August 2011

Introduction: This study reports on physicians' experiences in conducting end-of-life conversations with elderly patients who suffered from multiple co-morbidities (MCM). Our hypothesis was that both the lack of prognostic certainty and the lack of good communication tools contributed to physicians' discomfort with conducting EOL conversations with patients and families of patients with these conditions especially when compared with patients and families of patients who had a single, clear terminal diagnosis (e.g. pancreatic cancer). Methods: Focus group questions were semi-structured and explored three general themes: (1) differences between having an end-of-life conversation with patients/families with MCM versus those with a single, terminal diagnosis; (2) timing of the end-of-life conversation; and (3) approaches to the end-of-life conversation. Results: Three themes emerged: (1) It is more difficult for them to have EOL conversations with patients with MCM and their families, as opposed to conversations with families and patients who have a clear, terminal diagnosis. (2) In deciding when to raise the subject of EOL care, participants reported that they rely on a number of physical and/or social signs to prompt these discussions. Yet a major reason for the difficulty that providers face in initiating these discussions with MCM patients and families is that there is a lack of a clear threshold or prompting event. (3) Participants mentioned three types of approaches to initiating EOL conversations: (a) direct approach, (b) indirect approach, (c) collaborative approach. Conclusion: Prognostic indicies and communication scripts may better prepare physicians to facilitate end-of-life conversations with MCM patients/families.
Feigning Terminal Illness to Get Narcotics
Authors: Gonzalez Faustino , Galante Mirta
Published: August 2011

We present the case of a woman who enrolled in the hospice benefit in order to obtain narcotics. We believe this is a cautionary tale for hospices because of our propensity to enroll patients with minimal corroborating information, in order not to delay symptom management. Also we are philosophically predisposed to believe a patient’s self-report of pain and other distressing symptoms.
Advance Directives
Authors: Hinders Denise
Published: August 2011

The number of elderly persons is expected to increase to 55 million by 2020, with the minority population increasing to 12.9 million, yet fewer than 30% of Americans have advance directives in place. Cultural values, religious beliefs, and family support systems are a few of the factors that influence or hinder the completion of advance directives. Health care provider perspectives regarding advance directives vary greatly with health care settings. Many primary care providers are reluctant to initiate conversations regarding advance directives for multiple reasons. Nurse practitioners cover more than 600 million office visits per year in the United States and are in a key position to educate, advocate, and assist in the completion of advance directives.
Intrathecal Morphine Pump for Neuropathic Cancer Pain
Authors: Gogia Vikas , Chaudhary Prakash , Ahmed Arif , Khurana Deepa , Mishra Seema , Bhatnagar Sushma
Published: August 2011

The WHO ladder has been the most widely used approach for management of Cancer Pain. However, oral medications alone may be inadequate, particularly in difficult to treat cancer pain syndromes. Neuropathic pain is one of these refractory syndromes. The role of opioids has always been controversial in pain of neuropathic origin. We report a case of a 61 year old female patient with endometrial carcinoma suffering from severe neuropathic pain in her left lower limb. The pain was refractory to highest tolerable doses of oral morphine and neuromodulator drugs, viz. gabapentin and pregabalin. We managed the patient successfully with intrathecal morphine pump reducing the total morphine dose and improving patient comfort and satisfaction. Intrathecal delivery of Morphine ensured better efficacy with fewer side effects.
Timing for Launching a New Product to Maximize Overall Profit
Authors: Yang Chen-Lung , Ni Ming-Hai , Wei Chiu-Chi
Published: August 2011

The rapid changes in technology, market competition, globalization, and product differentiation requirements, are causing industries in product life cycle management (PLM) to become more meticulous in their efforts. High-tech industries such as information technology, semiconductors, optoelectronics, and aerospace industries are sensitive to PLM, especially in stage transition and timing control. PLM will directly affect the corporate performance, profit acquisition, and the achievement of business goals and ultimately affect the survival and development. In this study, we look at when to launch a new product to replace the old one, at the optimal time to maximize the overall profit, and the development of several quantitative models to provide the product life cycle sensitive industries. Based on the proposed models, two illustrative examples together with six tables of outcome under all possible parameters are applied to verify the feasibility of this study of practical applications.
Collaborative Reliability Analysis under the Environment of Multidisciplinary Design Optimization
Authors: Huang Hong-Zhong , Xiaoling Zhang  , Wei Yuan  , Debiao Meng  , Xudong Zhang
Published: August 2011

Uncertainties in multidisciplinary design optimization (MDO) have a significant influence on the whole design process of engineering systems. The most probable point (MPP) based reliability analysis is an approach that utilizes the safety index β to measure the effect of uncertainties. Collaborative optimization (CO) is a two-level optimization method specially created for large-scale distributed-analysis applications. Simulated annealing-based collaborative optimization (SA—CO) is one of the improved forms of CO that overcomes the difficulty of convergence given the existing of highly nonlinear consistency constraints. By combining the MPP-based reliability analysis method with SA—CO, we present a new collaborative reliability analysis method under the environment of MDO to deal with uncertainties existing in MDO, that is, MPP—SA—CO. Demonstrated by two typical examples, the proposed method inherits the advantages of CO. Also, accurate and efficient results are obtained by employing simulated annealing algorithmic as the system level optimizer and it features response surface instead of disciplinary optimization.
A hyperchaotic complex system generating two-, three-, and four-scroll attractors
Authors: Mahmoud Gamal M , Ahmed Mansour E
Published: August 2011

In this paper we propose a hyperchaotic complex system which generates 2-, 3- and 4-scroll attractors. Lyapunov exponents are calculated to observe hyperchaotic behavior. The stability analysis of the trivial fixed point is studied. Its dynamics are more rich in the sense that our system exhibits both chaotic and hyperchaotic attractors as well as periodic and quasi-periodic solutions, and solutions that approach fixed points. Bifurcation parameter diagrams are presented. Controlling hyperchaotic attractors of this system is investigated. The Lyapunov exponents are calculated to verify the control performance.
Analysis of impact factors of tire wear
Authors: Li Yong , Zuo Shuguang , Lei Lei , Yang Xianwu , Wu Xudong
Published: August 2011

Firstly, the formula of tire wear is established considering temperature effect and the dynamic characteristics of vehicles. In addition, the effects of speed, ambient temperatures, tire pressure and sprung mass for tire wear are analyzed. Finally, the main impact factors of tire tread wear are obtained through the parameters sensitivity analysis. The results show that: the established model of tire wear is feasible, and the results can reflect the wear conditions of tires, which provides a theoretic foundation to predict tire wear for different types of tire under different running conditions.
Performance of wavelet denoising in vibration analysis: highlighting
Authors: Chiementin Xavier , Kilundu Bovic , Rasolofondraibe Lanto , Crequy Samuel , Pottier Bernard
Published: August 2011

This paper proposes to highlight two aspects of denoising in vibration analysis. The first aspect aims to reveal the singularities, and the second eliminates the noise in order to keep the useful signal. These two aspects are the cause of the surjection of denoising, especially due to the choice of the performance criteria. This paper highlights the use of denoising through these aspects, and then proposes a performance criterion suitable for vibration analysis as part of a noise suppression, to apply a processing method. This paper provides a reflection on the use of discrete wavelet transform through the various parameters which are used during processing.
Forum Theatre for Bystanders
Authors: Mitchell Karen S. , Freitag Jennifer L.
Published: August 2011

This article introduces the “Forum Theatre for Bystanders” (FTB) approach to gender violence prevention as practiced by social change groups at several midwestern universities in the United States. Largely informed by Augusto Boal’s Theatre of the Oppressed and contemporary research on bystander theory, the Forum Theatre for Bystanders model offers a community-based approach that increases bystander responsibility and reduces victim blaming. The authors describe this model in detail and offer examples from their work to demonstrate its usefulness and efficacy.
Application of Yoga in Residential Treatment of Traumatized Youth
Authors: Spinazzola Joseph , Rhodes Alison M. , Emerson David , Earle Ellen , Monroe Kathryn
Published: August 2011

Background: The Trauma Center at Justice Resource Institute has adapted a form of Hatha yoga into a trauma-sensitive adjunctive component of intervention for use with complexly traumatized individuals exhibiting chronic affective and somatic dysregulation and associated behavioral, functioning, and health complaints. Objectives: This article explores the use of yoga with traumatized youth (aged 12-21 years) in residential treatment. Design: A review of the literature on the somatic impact of trauma exposure provides a rationale for the use of yoga with this population and highlights an emerging evidence base in support of this practice. Case vignettes illustrate the integration of structured, gentle yoga practices into residential programming for youth with severe emotional and behavioral problems. Results: Anecdotal data and clinical observation underscore the promise of yoga as a viable approach to build self-regulatory capacity of traumatized youth. Conclusions: Future directions in the development and evaluation of trauma-informed yoga practices for youth are discussed.
On the equations of motion in multibody dynamics
Authors: Lidström P
Published: August 2011

The equations of motion for a multibody system are derived from a continuum mechanical point of view. This will allow for the presence of rigid, as well as deformable, parts in the multibody system. The approach, using the principle of virtual power, leads to the classical Lagrange equations of motion. The generalized forces appearing in the equations are given as expressions involving contact, internal and body forces in the sense of continuum mechanics. A detailed analysis of the interaction between parts and their implication for the equations of motion is presented. Transformation properties, covariance and invariance under changes of configuration coordinates, are elucidated and a power theorem for the multibody system is proved. The equivalence between the standard balance equations for momentum and moment of momentum and the principle of virtual power is demonstrated.
On the relative energies of the Rivlin and cavitation instabilities for compressible materials
Authors: Lloyd James G , Sivaloganathan Jeyabal
Published: August 2011

In 1948, Rivlin showed that if a cube of incompressible neo-Hookean material is subjected to a sufficiently large uniform normal dead-load on its boundary, then an asymmetric deformation is the minimizer of the energy in the class of homogeneous deformations. Ball showed in 1982 that, for classes of compressible elastic materials, if a ball of the material is subjected to a sufficiently large uniform radial dead-load, then a deformation forming a cavity is the minimizer of the energy in the class of radial deformations. In this paper we consider compressible hyperelastic materials and show that under such dead-loading, if a local minimizer of the radial energy forms a cavity, then there necessarily exists an asymmetric homogeneous deformation with less energy. Our approach extends and generalizes previous results of Abeyaratne and Hou for the incompressible case.
Pilot Physical Activity Intervention Reduces Severity of ADHD Symptoms in Young Children
Authors: Smith Alan L. , Hoza Betsy , Linnea Kate , McQuade Julia D. , Tomb Meghan , Vaughn Aaron J. , Shoulberg Erin K. , Hook Holly
Published: August 2011

Objective: Physical activity associates with mental health and neurocognitive function, showing potential for addressing ADHD symptoms. As a preliminary assessment of this potential, the authors piloted a before-school physical activity intervention for young children. Method: Seventeen children (Grades K-3) exhibiting four or more hyperactivity/impulsivity symptoms on the Disruptive Behavior Disorders Rating Scale (Pelham, 2002) completed about 26 min of continuous moderate-to-vigorous physical activity daily over eight school weeks. The authors administered cognitive, motor, social, and behavioral functioning measures at pre- and postprogram, assessed response inhibition weekly, and coded negative behaviors daily. Results: Several measures showed significant or marginally significant change over time (effect size = 0.35-0.96) with additional measures showing meaningful effect size values (≥ 0.20). Response inhibition effects were most consistent. Most participants (64% to 71%) exhibited overall improvement according to postprogram parent, teacher, and program staff ratings. Conclusion: Physical activity shows promise for addressing ADHD symptoms in young children.
Effects of Symptoms of ADHD, ODD, and Cognitive Functioning on Social Acceptance and the Positive Illusory Bias in Children
Authors: Scholtens Sara , Diamantopoulou Sofia , Tillman Carin M. , Rydell Ann-Margret
Published: August 2011

Objective: To examine the effects of symptoms of ADHD and ODD and cognitive functioning on social acceptance and positive bias in children. Method: The sample consisted of 86 children (49 girls) between 7 and 13 years old, recruited to reflect a wide range of ADHD symptoms. Parents and teachers reported on ADHD and ODD symptoms and social acceptance. Children reported on social acceptance and were given tasks measuring working memory, inhibition and reaction-time variability. A discrepancy score between child and adult reports of social acceptance was used as a measure of positive bias. Results: Inattention independently explained variance in social acceptance. The cognitive factors were related to social acceptance and the positive bias, but not beyond the ADHD and ODD symptoms. Conclusion: It is primarily disruptive behavior that contributes to external reports of children’s social acceptance.
Presidential Address
Authors: Crocker Jennifer
Published: August 2011

Interpersonal dynamics of self-esteem are explored. The author proposes that the desire to be seen as having positive qualities and avoid being seen as having dreaded qualities paradoxically leads to lowered self-esteem and lowered regard from others through its adverse effects on interpersonal relationships. The author also argues that the human capacity to transcend concerns with the images others hold of oneself, through caring about the well-being of other people, paradoxically leads to higher self-esteem and regard from others through its salutary effects on relationships. Data from two recent studies demonstrate these paradoxical effects and prompt questions about the nature of persons and situations, research methods, and the union between personality and social psychology. Accordingly, the author reflects more broadly on how people create their social situations, which in turn create the self, and what that means about the methods scholars use to understand social behavior.
Preclinical 28-Day Inhalation Toxicity Assessment of S-Nitrosoglutathione in Beagle Dogs and Wistar Rats
Authors: Colagiovanni Dorothy B. , Borkhataria Daxa , Looker Doug , Schuler Detlef , Bachmann Corinna , Sagelsdorff Peter , Honarvar Naveed , Rosenthal Gary J.
Published: August 2011

To support clinical development of S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO) as a therapeutic agent, 28-day toxicology studies in rats and dogs were conducted. Rats (21-25/sex) and dogs (3-5/sex) were exposed for 4 hours or 1 hour, respectively, to inhaled GSNO (0, 3, 9.3, 19, and 28 mg/kg per d in rats and 0, 4.6, 9.0, and 16.2 mg/kg per d in dogs) or vehicle daily via a nebulizer. Animals were monitored throughout the 28-day dosing period and during a postexposure recovery period. Complete necropsy and tissue examinations were performed. Experimental end points included clinical pathology, toxicokinetics, and immunotoxicology. No biologically significant adverse findings were noted in either species, and the no observed adverse effect levels (NOAELs) under these conditions were the highest achieved doses (28 and 16.2 mg/kg per d in rats and dogs, respectively). These data demonstrate that GSNO is well tolerated in rodents and dogs and predict a favorable toxicity profile in humans, thus supporting future clinical development of GSNO or closely related compounds.
Drug Design Structural Alert
Authors: Dowty Martin E. , Hu George , Hua Fengmei , Shilliday F. Barclay , Dowty Heather V.
Published: August 2011

In the process of drug design, it is important to consider potential structural alerts that may lead to toxicosis. This work illustrates how using trifluoroethane as a part of a novel chemical entity led to cytochrome P450 – mediated N-dealkylation and the formation of trifluoroacetaldehyde, a known testicular toxicant, in exploratory safety studies in rats. Testicular toxicosis was noted microscopically in a dose-dependent manner as measured by testicular spermatocytic degeneration and necrosis and excessive intratubular cellular debris in the epididymis. This apparent toxic effect correlated well with the dose-dependent formation of trifluoroacetaldehyde, identified from in vitro rat liver microsome metabolism studies. A similar safety study performed with an N-tetrazole substitution in place of the N-trifluoroethane showed no evidence of testicular injury, implicating further the role of trifluoroacetaldehyde in the testicular lesion observed. These results highlight the relevance of early metabolic and safety testing in assessing potential structural alerts in drug design.
Study of effect of inertia forces of oil film on performance of a journal–thrust floating ring bearing using a new method
Authors: Meng F M , Cen S Q , Wan D P
Published: August 2011

The effect of inertia forces of oil film on the performance of a journal–thrust floating ring bearing (i.e. the joint bearing) is analysed with a new method, which is the combined application of the finite element method and the complex method. In this analysis, the extended Reynolds equation considering the effect of inertia forces of the outer and inner films of the bearing is derived first and then further solved using the finite element method. Meanwhile, the complex method is employed to obtain the balance of the floating ring. The validity of the new method is demonstrated, and the significant effect of the inertia forces on the performance of the joint bearing is revealed.
Prediction of long-term disability in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Schlaeger R , D’Souza M , Schindler C , Grize L , Dellas S , Radue EW , Kappos L , Fuhr P
Published: August 2011

Background: Little is known about the predictive value of neurophysiological measures for the long-term course of multiple sclerosis (MS).

Objective: To prospectively investigate whether combined visual (VEP) and motor evoked potentials (MEP) allow prediction of disability over 14 years.

Methods: A total of 30 patients with relapsing–remitting and secondary progressive MS were prospectively investigated with VEPs, MEPs and the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) at entry (T0) and after 6, 12 and 24 months, and with cranial MRI scans at entry (T2-weighted and gadolinium-enhanced T1-weighted images). EDSS was again assessed at year 14 (T4). The association between evoked potential (EP), magnetic resonance (MR) data and EDSS was measured using Spearman’s rank correlation. Multivariable linear regression was performed to predict EDSST4 as a function of z-transformed EP-latenciesT0. The model was validated using a jack-knife procedure and the potential for improving it by inclusion of additional baseline variables was examined.

Results: EDSS valuesT4 correlated with the sum of z-transformed EP-latenciesT0 (rho = 0.68, p < 0.0001), but not with MR-parametersT0. EDSST4 as predicted by the formula EDSST4 = 4.194 + 0.088 * z-score P100T0 + 0.071 * z-score CMCTUE, T0 correlated with the observed values (rho = 0.69, p < 0.0001).

Conclusion: Combined EPs allow prediction of long-term disability in small groups of patients with MS. This may have implications for the choice of monitoring methods in clinical trials and for daily practice decisions.
The association of intrathecal immunoglobulin synthesis and cortical lesions predicts disease activity in clinically isolated syndrome and early relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis
Authors: Calabrese Massimiliano , Federle Lisa , Bernardi Valentina , Rinaldi Francesca , Favaretto Alice , Varagnolo Maria Cristina , Perini Paola , Plebani Mario , Gallo Paolo
Published: August 2011

Background: The intrathecal production of immunoglobulin (Ig) is a major biological feature of multiple sclerosis (MS), and immunopathological studies have suggested a primary role of the humoral immune response in causing irreversible brain damage.

Objective: To evaluate whether, in the early phases of MS, intrathecal Ig synthesis correlates with the presence of cortical lesions (CLs), and if their association could predict the clinical course of the disease.

Methods: Eighty-six patients presenting with symptoms and signs suggestive of MS underwent a diagnostic work-up that included magnetic resonance imaging and cerebrospinal fluid examination. The risk ratios (RR) for conversion to MS and for a new disease activity were calculated.

Results: Patients with clinically isolated syndromes (CIS) having CLs and intrathecal synthesis of Ig had the highest risk of conversion to MS (RR = 3.4; Wald 95% CI = 1.7–7.0, p < 0.001) whereas CIS patients without CLs and intrathecal synthesis of Ig had the lowest risk of conversion to MS (RR = 0.1, Wald 95% CI = 0.02–0.7, p < 0.001). The highest risk of having disease-related activity during the follow-up was observed in CIS and relapsing–remitting MS patients showing CLs and intrathecal Ig synthesis (RR = 2.1; Wald 95% CI = 1.5–3.1, p < 0.001) while the lowest in CIS and relapsing–remitting MS patients without CLs and intrathecal Ig synthesis (RR = 0.3; Wald 95% CI = 0.1–0.7, p < 0.001).

Conclusion: We observed that the association of intrathecal immunoglobulin synthesis and CLs was highly predictive of an earlier CIS conversion to MS as well as of a higher disease activity.
Massive astrocyte destruction in neuromyelitis optica despite natalizumab therapy
Authors: Barnett MH , Prineas JW , Buckland ME , Parratt JDE , Pollard JD
Published: August 2011

Auto-antibody mediated astrocyte injury is implicated as a primary event in neuromyelitis optica (NMO) by biomarker, post-mortem and experimental studies that differentiate the condition from multiple sclerosis. We describe the clinical, radiological and neuropathological features of a severe cerebral attack in a natalizumab-treated patient with relapsing myelitis and serum aquaporin-4 antibodies. Our findings support autopsy evidence that abrupt astrocyte destruction precedes demyelination in NMO, and emphasize the importance of serological testing in patients with limited disease. Adherence to current NMO diagnostic criteria may delay treatment, or lead to inappropriate therapy with beta-interferon or natalizumab.
“All eyes are on you”: anorexia nervosa patient perspectives of in-patient mealtimes
Authors: Long Stacey , Wallis Deborah , Leung Newman , Meyer Caroline
Published: August 2011

The aim of this qualitative study was to investigate in-patient perceptions of mealtimes on eating disorders units. Individual interviews were conducted with 12 women with anorexia nervosa. Using thematic analysis, three themes emerged as important: 1) Mealtime delivery (logistical factors influencing meals); 2) Individual outcomes (cognitions, emotions, behaviours and physical sensations during meals); and 3) Mealtime characteristics (including disengagement, perceived battlegrounds, and a desire for involvement in mealtimes). Future research should focus on areas of treatment delivery identified as important by patients. Recommendations are made regarding mealtime protocols based on patients’ views, with increased recognition of behavioural, cognitive, physical and emotional aspects.
You should have been there, man: Live music, DIY content and online communities
Authors: Lingel Jessa , Naaman Mor
Published: August 2011

In terms of technological change and participatory media, the phenomenon of taking and sharing videos of live music events offers an insightful case study for discussing the individual production of online content and interpersonal interactions on social media sites. We use interviews with YouTube users who post videos of live music events to investigate motivations for the capture of personal video recordings, the protocols for sharing of videos, and the roles videos play in online fan activities. Analysis of interviews identifies key motivations for capture and sharing, and exposes tensions between short- and long-term goals of these activities. Further, the results expose differences in attitudes, motivations and practices between mainstream and ‘indie’ concert goers. These findings have implications for understanding participation on social media sites, as well as broader issues of online communities, fan cultures and individual production of media.
Social networking and adjustments among international students
Authors: Lin Jih-Hsuan , Peng Wei , Kim Mijung , Kim Sung Yeun , LaRose Robert
Published: August 2011

How do social media facilitate adjustment to changes in social structure and culture? This research examines the impact of online social networking on online and offline social capitals and adjustment of international students in the United States. A survey of 195 international students in a major Midwestern university showed that students’ interactions with Americans and home country friends using Facebook, extroversion, and horizontal collectivism were positively related to international students’ social adjustment and online bridging capital. Facebook usage mediated the relationship between extroversion and online social capital. The implications of social network site use, personality, and cultural difference on social capital and adjustment are discussed.
Finite element analysis applied to redesign of submerged entry nozzles for steelmaking
Authors: Ewing H C , Hendry A , Nash D H
Published: August 2011

The production of steel by continuous casting is facilitated by the use of refractory hollow-ware components. A critical component in this process is the submerged entry nozzle (SEN). The normal operating conditions of the SEN are arduous, involving large temperature gradients and exposure to mechanical forces arising from the flow of molten steel; experimental development of the components is challenging in so hazardous an environment. The effects of the thermal stress conditions in relation to a well-tried design were therefore simulated using a finite element analysis approach. It was concluded from analyses that failures of the type being experienced are caused by the large temperature gradient within the nozzle. The analyses pointed towards a supported shoulder area of the nozzle being most vulnerable to failure and practical in-service experience confirmed this.

As a direct consequence of the investigation, design modifications, incorporating changes to both the internal geometry and to the nature of the intermediate support material, were implemented, thereby substantially reducing the stresses within the Al2O3/graphite ceramic liner. Industrial trials of this modified design established that the component reliability would be significantly improved and the design has now been implemented in series production.
A review of low-velocity impact on sandwich structures
Authors: Chai G B , Zhu S
Published: August 2011

This contribution is a review of past and current research progress on dynamic response of composites sandwich structures subjected to low-velocity impact. To obtain a comprehensive overview of the current state-of-the-art published works, impact responses on sandwich structures are broadly classified into two main groups, high-velocity and low-velocity impacts, with the focus on low-velocity impact. A summary of some of the commonly used theoretical solutions for low-velocity impact is provided and described in some details. The response of low-velocity impact has been determined based on mass ratio, which is defined as the ratio of the impact mass to effective mass of the structural component. As a result, the response under low-velocity impact was further subdivided into three possible categories, namely, large, small, and medium mass impacts. For each category of impact, currently available suitable solutions are discussed in details. To classify the response of low-velocity impact and also to explore the energy-absorption characteristics as well, the impact duration is identified as the key parameter. The review concludes with detailed discussions on the damage mechanisms and failure criteria for sandwich structures subjected to impact loads.
Epoxy/thermoplastic blends: the effects of two different aromatic modifiers
Authors: Cicala G , Mamo A , Latteri A , Recca G
Published: August 2011

In this article, a study of the properties of selected epoxy/thermoplastic blends based on the addition of two different types of aromatic modifiers is presented. The epoxy monomer used was a diglycidyl ether of biphenol A cured by 4,4′methylene bis(2,6-diethylaniline) as an amine-curing agent. One modifier was a commercial poly(2,6-dimethyl-1,4-phenylene ether or oxide) (PPE or PPO), while the other was a random copolyethersulphone synthesized in our laboratory. Several different percentages of modifiers varying from 5 to 30 wt% were considered in order to evaluate a wide spectrum of morphologies. The blends have been thoroughly characterized by parallel plate rheometry, dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

The isothermal rheology revealed some peculiar features for the blends modified by the addition of PPO as modifier. PPO bimodal mass distribution induced a two-phase separation transitions that were not observed with blends containing copolyethersulphone. All the blends presented phase-separated morphology that was clearly observed by SEM analysis. DMTA supported the results of SEM and rheology showing multi-peak behaviour in the loss tangent curves that are typical of phase-separated systems.
Optimization of mechanical properties of Al2O3–SiC nanocomposite body
Authors: Asadi A , Sadough Vanini S A , Farrokhi A
Published: August 2011

Experimental procedure of Al2O3–SiC nanocomposite body with addition of small amount of MgO for hot-press sintering process is considered. For improving the densification behaviour and mechanical properties of this nanocomposite body, experimental variables such as sintering temperature, sintering duration, SiC vol%, and MgO amount were optimized. For optimization, many tests were conducted on the nanocomposite materials with different produce conditions to achieve the best physical and mechanical properties. Obviously, achieving the best condition for all the physical and mechanical properties at one time is unreachable matter; so concern is on the properties which are important at high-speed impacts. It was observed that specimen with 10 vol% SiC, 500 ppm MgO, sintering temperature of 1650 °C, sintering duration of 90 min, and sintering pressure of 30 MPa, had the optimum physical and mechanical properties.
Finite element thermal/mechanical analysis for microscale laser joining of ultrathin coatings of titanium on glass/polyimide system
Authors: Mayeed M S , Lubna N J , Auner G W , Patwa R , Herfurth H , Newaz G M
Published: August 2011

Finite element (FE) thermal/mechanical analysis of microscale laser joining of biocompatible materials, polyimide (PI) and nanoscale coating of titanium (Ti) on glass (Gl), is important for the long-term application of bio-implants and the applications of nanoscale solid coatings. In this study, a comprehensive three-dimensional (3D) transient simulation for thermal/mechanical analysis of transmission laser microjoining of dissimilar materials has been performed using the FE code ABAQUS, along with a moving Gaussian laser heat source. The laser beam (wavelength of 1100 nm and diameter of 0.2 mm), moving at an optimized velocity (100 mm/min), passes through the transparent PI, gets absorbed by the absorbing Ti, and eventually melts the PI to form the bond. The laser bonded joint area is 6.5 mm long on three different Ti coating thicknesses of 400, 200, and 50 nm on Gl surface. Non-uniform mixed meshes have been used and optimized to formulate the 3D FE model and ensure very refined meshing around the bond area. During the microscale laser heating, FE modelling shows that the widths of PI surface experiencing temperatures above the glass transition temperature are similar to the widths of bonds observed in experiments for coating thicknesses of 400 and 200 nm of Ti on Gl. However, for the case of 50 nm coating, bond width using FE analysis cannot produce and is lower than the bond width observed experimentally. After these verifications, the residual stress profile of the laser microjoint (200 nm of Ti on Gl) has been calculated using the developed model with the system cooling down to room temperature. The transverse (to the laser travel direction) stress profiles on Ti surface have shown high tensile stress near the centre-line of laser travel, decreased to lower values from the centre-line symmetrically at both sides, and to the contrary, have shown compressive stresses near the centre-line on Gl surface. Maximum von-Mises residual stresses on PI and Gl surfaces are obtained at the start of laser travel, and on Ti surface they occur in between the ends. It has been explained that the patterned accumulation of residual stresses is due to the thermal expansion and contraction mismatches between the dissimilar materials at the opposite sides of the bond along with the melting and softening of PI during the joining process.
Connected histories, power and meaning: Transnational forces in the construction of collective identities
Authors: Roniger Luis
Published: August 2011

The construction of collective identities is central to Shmuel N.Eisenstadt’scomparative research program, as reflected in his studies of civilizations and multiple modernities. This article suggests the theoretical relevance of bridging comparative and transnational studies, calling attention to the impact of connected histories in processes of crystallization of collective identities. Focusing on Central America, this analysis shows that, following independence, the societies of this region found it hard to articulate distinct identities; they came to such issues belatedly, almost by default; and were unable to completely disengage from transnational forces that pulled them together time and again. It thus indicates how societies oftenlead a Janus-faced dynamics in constructing their visions of collective membership, which can only be followed by taking into account transnational undercurrents at worklong before the onset of recent cycles of globalization.
A sociological odyssey: The comparative voyage of S.N. Eisenstadt
Authors: Tiryakian Edward A.
Published: August 2011

This essay proposes that the comparative research of Eisenstadt made room for ‘tradition’ as a creative feature of modernity, rather than as dysfunctional, as in either the liberal or leftist model. He recognized that conflict — often a conflict of generations—is a feature of modernity, and that trust is also a problematic aspect of change. An ultimate concern of Eisenstadt was to build on classical themes of sociology and theories of social change to develop, with colleagues, an adequate sociological understanding of an evolving civilization of modernity. Eisenstadt based his writings on comparative historical research, his far-flung travels, as well as continuous observations of the dynamics of his own Israeli society.
Axial civilizations, multiple modernities, and Islam
Authors: Amir Arjomand Saïd
Published: August 2011

Departing from the modernization theory, S.N. Eisenstadt proposed the idea of ‘post-traditional societies’ in the early 1970s, and proceeded to formulate the concepts of ‘axial civilizations’ and ‘multiple modernities’ in the following decades. In the 1980s, Eisenstadt sketched a model of constant tension between an Islamic primordial utopia — the ideal of the Golden Age of pristine Islam— and the historical reality of patrimonial Sultanism, coexisting with an autonomous public sphere protected by Islamic law and dominated by the religious elite, the ulema. The main feature of this model was the oscillation between military regimes with limited pluralism and puritanical fundamentalism. Eisenstadt further emphasized the degree of autonomy of the religious elite as the carriers of Islam in relation to the ruler and political power as a determinant of the strength of their civilizational impact. Islam remained confined to the religious sphere in sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia, where the religious elite lacked autonomy, but had a much broader civilizational impact in the Middle East and North Africa, where the ulema developed greater autonomy. The article shows Eisenstadt’s subsequent influence by discussion of the application by other sociologists of civilizational analysis to Islam in a comparative perspective, and of multiple modernities to contemporary Islam.
Deciphering transcendence and the open code of modernity: S.N. Eisenstadt’s comparative hermeneutics of civilizations
Authors: Silber Ilana F.
Published: August 2011

This paper highlights the key position and polysemy of the idea of transcendence in Eisenstadt’s comparative historical sociology. Eisenstadt’s deployment of the idea of transcendence as a tool of systematic comparative analysis applicable to both past and present civilizations stands in clear continuity with directions of inquiry opened up by Weber and later inflected by conceptions of the ‘Axial Age’ as first developed by Jaspers and others. But it was also nourished by his time of study with Buber, self-critical revision of his early affinities with structural-functionalism, and dialogical absorption of competing theoretical influences. Transcendence, in the process, develops into a polysemic idea of flexible analytical scope, which can combine with but does not overlap with those of the search for salvation, charisma, or the sacred. The result is a comparative hermeneutics of civilizations that strives to decipher the manifold and contradictory expressions of transcendence in the history of human conceptions and institutions. It is also a cultural hermeneutics that posits the paradoxical operation of generative cultural structures able to both close and open, encode or dissolve, as well as construct and reconstruct collective boundaries and arenas of trust and commitment.
Cartographies
Authors: Tremonte Colleen M.
Published: August 2011

This article examines the ways in which the scholarship of teaching and learning (SOTL) can be integrated into graduate education in the humanities to support future faculty preparation in teaching. Drawing on data from a multi-year project at a research-1 institution in the United States, and theories from postmodern geography and postcolonial studies, the article argues that such integration engenders both reflective practice and deeper understanding of the relationship between disciplinary epistemologies and pedagogic knowledge. Moreover, when such integration occurs within the contours of a third space, it affords graduate students an opportunity for rewriting narratives of professional identities. That is, when SOTL is integrated into graduate education in sites outside the formal department or doctoral program yet inside the institutional context, it can effectively change the ethos of teaching.
Original knowledge, gender and the word’s mythology
Authors: Carter Susan
Published: August 2011

Using mythology as a generative matrix, this article investigates the relationship between knowledge, words, embodiment and gender as they play out in academic writing’s voice and, in particular, in doctoral voice. The doctoral thesis is defensive, a performance seeking admittance into discipline scholarship. Yet in finding its scholarly voice, the Arts Humanities doctorate also constructs the academic identity of its author. Creating identity is more troublesome than meeting discipline conventions, because it is more personal. Identity is a complex construct. Voice must locate subjectivity but also rise above it in self-reflective critique: mythology, like theory, may suggest possibilities for negotiating the intersectedness of academic utterance.
Speed loss in waves and wave-induced torsion of a wide-breadth containership
Authors: Rathje H , Schellin T E , Brehm A
Published: August 2011

Aspects relevant for operational and structural design of a wide-breadth, neo-panmax containership were addressed. First, speed loss in waves was investigated. Second, wave-induced global hull girder torsion was determined to assess the effects of the increased breadth on this load component, generally considered critical for the ship’s structural strength. An extended Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) equations solver simulated the ship advancing in calm water as well as in selected regular head and bow waves. A boundary element method (BEM) computed transfer functions of wave-induced ship response. Before using spectral techniques to obtain long-term predictions of hull girder torsion, these transfer functions were corrected to account for non-linear effects. To assess the reliability of the computed long-term hull girder torsion, the extended RANS equations solver was used to perform additional simulations for this ship advancing at selected speeds in equivalent regular design waves that represent wave conditions considered critical for structural design. Except for the very forward part of the ship, long-term BEM-based predictions of wave-induced hull girder torsion did not exceed rule values. Comparative BEM and RANS predictions of hull girder torsion differed significantly, underlining the need to validate the predictions systematically.
A study of safety evaluation and early-warning method for dam global behavior
Authors: Huaizhi SU , Jiang HU , Zhongru WU
Published: August 2011

For a dam system, its effect quantities of different observed points are related absolutely. To identify evolution tendency of a dam system, it is necessary to find the inherent regularity using observed time series from available multi-source data. Rescaled range analysis ( R/ S analysis) and fractal theory have been recognized as important tools to assist in the solving of problems of internal correlations in time series of effect quantities in many fields. In this article, fractal theory and R/ S analysis were combined to obtain the inherent regularity of observed time series from multi-source data, and its variation tendency was processed quantitatively. By means of building the global time effect model and early-warning criterion of dam deformation and seepage, dam disease diagnosis and early-warning for dam safety can be realized. Deformation analysis of one gravity dam was taken as an example: the time effect monitoring model for this dam deformation was built, based on this, the dam behavior was diagnosed. The results show that the proposed models are reasonable. The methods can evaluate the global safety state and identify the change tendency of observed effect quantities.