bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of reinforcement on the mechanical and thermal properties of flax/polypropylene interwoven fabric composites
Authors: Kannan T Gobi , Wu Chang Mou , Cheng Kuo Bing , Wang Chen Yu
Published: April 2012

Flax yarn and polypropylene yarn were used as weft and warp, respectively, for producing interwoven fabric. Unidirectional flax fiber-reinforced composites with different fiber orientation such as (0)6, (45)6, (60)6, (90)6, and (0/90)s were fabricated by hot pressing method. The effects of different angle orientation such as parallel, off-axial, and cross lamination on tensile, flexural, and impact energy of unidirectional flax yarn composites were studied. Thermal behavior of fiber and composite was observed by thermo gravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry. Tensile, flexural, and impact value of the composites are showing the decreasing trend for off-axial laminates compared to (0)6 axial-oriented laminates. Tensile and flexural strength values of (0)6 laminates are showing the maximum value such as 71 and 79 MPa, respectively. But, flexural strength value of ((0/90)s cross-ply arrangement is showing the reasonable value compared to off-axial lamination such as (45)6, (60)6, and (90)6 layup combination. Maximum impact energy value is observed around 334.66 J/m for (0)6 axial-oriented laminates. The influence of interwoven fabric on the processability of the composite fabrication is explained in detail. Fractography studies of the damaged surface are also demonstrated.
Influence of high-performance yarns degradation inside three-dimensional warp interlock fabric
Authors: Lefebvre Marie , Francois Boussu , Daniel Coutellier
Published: April 2012

During the weaving process, damages to yarns are observed and can lead to severe loss of mechanical properties in the final woven material. A complete and detailed analysis of the different steps, from the yarn spinning to the three-dimensional interlock weaving, has been carried out to measure the loss of properties of para-aramid warp and weft yarns. Thanks to special devices adapted to the weaving process, the maximum values of loss of mechanical properties are 10% for the warp yarns and 6% for the weft yarns. Among the different three-dimensional warp interlocks tested (orthogonal, through-the-thickness and layer-to-layer), best results in limiting warp yarn damage are obtained considering the through-the-thickness three-dimensional interlock fabric and for the weft yarn damage the layer-to-layer three-dimensional interlock fabric. The main interest of these results is to obtain an optimized solution after a weaving process on three-dimensional woven interlock fabrics. Moreover, thanks to the study we can realize that a three-dimensional weaving process could lead to damage the yarns and the structure before the final use as composite material.
Physical and Cognitive Stimulation in Alzheimer Disease. The GAIA Project
Authors: Maci Tiziana , Pira Francesco Le , Quattrocchi Graziella , Nuovo Santo Di , Perciavalle Vincenzo , Zappia Mario
Published: April 2012

Several data suggest that physical activity and cognitive stimulation have a positive effect on the quality of life (QoL) of people with Alzheimer’s disease (AD), slowing the decline due to the disease. A pilot project was undertaken to assess the effect of cognitive stimulation, physical activity, and socialization on patients with AD and their informal caregiver’s QoL and mood. Fourteen patients with AD were randomly divided into active treatment group and control group. At the end of treatment, a significant improvement in apathy, anxiety, depression, and QoL in the active treatment group was found. Considering caregivers, those of the active treatment group exhibited a significant improvement in their mood and in their perception of patients’ QoL. This study provides evidence that a combined approach based on cognitive stimulation, physical activity, and socialization is a feasible tool to improve mood and QoL in patients with AD and their caregivers.
Facial Expression in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Seidl Ulrich , Lueken Ulrike , Thomann Philipp A. , Kruse Andreas , Schröder Johannes
Published: April 2012

In Alzheimer’s disease (AD), nonverbal aspects of communication become increasingly important in caregiver–patient interactions when the ability to communicate verbally is fading with progression of the disease. We therefore investigated the impact of cognitive deficits and neuropsychiatric symptoms, particularly apathy, on facial expression in AD. While overall neuropsychiatric symptoms were not associated with facial expression, apathy exhibited substantial correlations, even after controlling for cognitive deficits. Moreover, apathy appeared to moderate the influence of cognitive deficits: without considering apathy, cognitive deficits were associated with less specific facial expressions. After controlling for apathy, cognitive decline was related to increased facial expressiveness. In conclusion, apathetic symptoms appear to be specifically associated with facial expression in AD and thus could contribute to a disregard for patients’ needs in everyday life.
Predicting Facilitators’ Behaviors During Alzheimer’s Family Support Group Meetings
Authors: Steffen Ann M. , Jackson Christy S.
Published: April 2012

A social ecological model was used to predict facilitators’ behaviors observed during Alzheimer’s Association sponsored family support group meetings (N = 66). Information about group leaders was obtained via individual telephone interview prior to the observation of their support group by trained raters. Family dementia caregivers (N = 296) provided basic demographic and caregiving-related information at the end of the observed meeting. Caregiver- and group-level variables predicted ratings of observed leader support during support group meetings. The addition of leader characteristics such as years of experience or professional roles did not significantly contribute to the model. This study lends credence to ecological models emphasizing the influence of social context. Recommendations are made for facilitator training and management of Alzheimer's Association sponsored support group meetings.
Endovascular Management of Vascular Complications in Pancreatic Transplants
Authors: Saad Wael E. A. , Darwish Wael E. , Turba Ulku C. , Angle John F. , Wagner Cynthia E. , Matsumoto Alan H. , Brayman Kenneth , Hagspiel Klaus D.
Published: April 2012

Vascular complications after pancreatic transplantation carry a high rate of graft loss. Endovascular management of these complications is confined to stent placement for iliac artery inflow disease and embolization for arteriovenous fistulae (AVFs), pseudoaneurysms, or active bleeding. The current study describes the endovascular management of pancreatic transplant venous thrombosis (N = 1), arterial stenosis (N = 5), thrombosis (N = 3), pseudoaneurysms (N = 1), and AVF (N = 2). In addition, embolization of nonfunctioning grafts is described as an endovascular alternative to pancreatectomy.
Anemia is Associated With Mortality Following Endovascular Repair of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
Authors: Saratzis Athanasios , Melas Nikolaos , Hunter James P. , Dixon Hannah , Nightingale Peter , Kiskinis Dimitrios , Saratzis Nikolaos , Kitas George D.
Published: April 2012

Aim: The aim of this study was to compare midterm mortality between anemic and nonanemic patients undergoing endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm and to assess a correlation with markers of inflammation. Methods: Anemia was defined as hemoglobin <13 (men) and <12 g/dL (women). The impact of anemia and inflammatory markers on mortality was assessed using Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox regression. Results: A total of 224 patients (12 females [5.36%]; age: 69.73 ± 8.72 years) were included; 102 (45.53%) were anemic. Median follow-up was 17 months (interquartile range: 7-25 months). Nine patients died (1.79%; 8 anemic vs 1 nonanemic). Survival was lower for patients with anemia (log-rank, P = .01). White blood cell count and C-reactive protein (CRP) differed significantly ( P < .001 and P = .01). Anemia and CRP were associated with decreased survival (Cox regression, P = .01, hazard ratio [HR]: 0.35, 95% confidence interval: 0.14-0.84 and P = .002, HR: 1.18, 95% CI: 1.06-1.31). Conclusion: Patients with anemia had decreased survival over the midterm; inflammatory markers were higher among this group.
Aortic Aneurysmal Repair With Surtureless Visceral Revascularization Using Novel Hybrid Vascular Graft and a Gradual Funneling Technique
Authors: Bornak Arash , Goldstein Lee Joshua , Rey Jorge , Medina Andres , Yang Jane Kim , Velazquez Omaida Caridad , Karmacharya Jagajan
Published: April 2012

This article details a novel technique in the treatment of a symptomatic thoracoabdominal aneurysm (TAA) involving the visceral segment and an infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm. The patient was treated in a 2-staged hybrid approach combining an endovascular repair of the infrarenal segment, followed by open TAA repair. The large visceral arteries were revascularized using expanded polytetrafluoroethylene GORE Hybrid Vascular Graft (GHVG) and a Gradual Funneling Technique with Dacron graft. This method assured a complete hemostatic seal and minimized visceral ischemic time. To our knowledge, this is the first case of sutureless visceral artery revascularization using GHVG reported in the literature.
External Iliac Artery Stenting
Authors: Smith Vance L. , Peterson Laura , Starr Jean E. , Satiani Bhagwan
Published: April 2012

Objectives: To review immediate results, patency rates, hemodynamic success, and incidence of concomitant procedures with external iliac artery stenting (EIAS). Methods: Demographic features, category and clinical grade, Trans-Atlantic Inter-Society Consensus II classification lesion type, pre- and postprocedure ankle–brachial indices, and primary patency were compared between group 1 (EIAS without distal revascularization) and group 2 (EIAS with concomitant distal revascularization). Results: No mortality and a 100% immediate technical success rate was recorded in group 1 (n = 12) and group 2 (n = 24). Eleven patients (30.6%) also had stenting of the adjacent common iliac artery. Two thirds of group 2 patients required concomitant femoral or distal revascularization. Conclusions: No difference in stent patency rates was found between patients in group 1 versus group 2. Patients requiring EIAS tend to have more diffuse arterial disease necessitating complicated open reconstruction and/or distal revascularization, as well as more proximal iliac stenting.
Treatment of Type II Endoleaks With Ethylene-Vinyl-Alcohol Copolymer (Onyx)
Authors: Massis Kamal , Carson William G. , Rozas Alexandra , Patel Vishal , Zwiebel Bruce
Published: April 2012

We report our single-center experience in treating 101 type II endoleaks with ethylene-vinyl-alcohol copolymer (EVOH, Onyx). In all, 65 endoleaks were embolized transarterially, and 36 were treated through a translumbar approach. Since the first transarterial embolization, when we began attempts to treat all patients initially via common femoral access, 58 (65.9%) of 88 patients were successfully embolized transarterially. All endoleaks in the translumbar group were successfully treated. At a median follow-up length of 15 weeks, a decrease or stabilization in aneurysm size was observed in 39 (73.6%) of the 53 endoleaks that had adequate follow-up computed tomography imaging. The overall residual endoleak rate was 34.0%. There was no difference in efficacy when comparing transarterial and translumbar approaches. We demonstrate that in most cases, transarterial access of the endoleak nidus is feasible, and controlled embolization is possible using EVOH. Furthermore, EVOH appears effective in long-term stabilization of aneurysm size and in preventing residual endoleaks.
Knowledge of heart attack and stroke symptomology: a cross-sectional comparison of rural and non-rural US adults
Authors: Swanoski Michael T , Lutfiyya May Nawal , Amaro Maria L , Akers Michael F , Huot Krista L
Published: April 2012

Background

Understanding the signs and symptoms of heart attacks and strokes are important not only in saving lives, but also in preserving quality of life. Findings from recent research have yielded that the prevalence of cardiovascular disease risk factors are higher in rural populations, suggesting that adults living in rural locales may be at higher risk for heart attack and/or stroke. Knowledge of heart attack and stroke symptomology as well as calling 911 for a suspected heart attack or stroke are essential first steps in seeking care. This study sought to examine the knowledge of heart attack and stroke symptoms among rural adults in comparison to non-rural adults living in the U.S.

Methods

Using multivariate techniques, a cross-sectional analysis of an amalgamated multi-year Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Survey (BRFSS) database was performed. The dependent variable for this analysis was low heart attack and stroke knowledge score. The covariates for the analysis were: age, sex, race/ethnicity, annual household income, attained education, health insurance status, having a health care provider (HCP), timing of last routine medical check-up, medical care deferment because of cost, self-defined health status and geographic locale.

Results

The weighted n for this study overall was 103,262,115 U.S. adults > =18 years of age. Approximately 22.0% of these respondents were U.S. adults living in rural locales. Logistic regression analysis revealed that those U.S. adults who had low composite heart attack and stroke knowledge scores were more likely to be rural (OR = 1.218 95%CI 1.216-1.219) rather than non-rural residents. Furthermore, those with low scores were more likely to be: male (OR = 1.353 95%CI 1.352-1.354), >65 years of age (OR = 1.369 95%CI 1.368-1.371), African American (OR = 1.892 95%CI 1.889-1.894), not educated beyond high school (OR = 1.400 955CI 1.399-1.402), uninsured (OR = 1.308 95%CI 1.3-6-1.310), without a HCP (OR = 1.216 95%CI 1.215-1.218), and living in a household with an annual income of < $50,000 (OR = 1.429 95%CI 1.428-1.431).

Conclusions

Analysis identified clear disparities between the knowledge levels U.S. adults have regarding heart attack and stroke symptoms. These disparities should guide educational endeavors focusing on improving knowledge of heart attack and stroke symptoms.
Relationship between treatment-seeking behaviour and artemisinin drug quality in Ghana
Authors: Klein Eili Y , Lewis Ian A , Jung Christina , Llinás Manuel , Levin Simon A
Published: April 2012

Background

Artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) is currently the recommended first-line treatment for uncomplicated malaria infections. However, a significant proportion of ACT is assumed to be of poor quality, particularly in Africa. In addition, little is known about how treatment-seeking behaviour of individuals or drug price is associated with drug quality.

Methods

Caregivers of children less than 5 years of age were interviewed on their knowledge of malaria and their choices for treatment. Artemisinin drugs were then purchased from sellers that caregivers preferred or had previously patronized. The active ingredients were quantified by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy.

Results

A negative relationship was anticipated between the education level of caregivers and the quality of anti-malarial drugs purchased. However, of the 33 drugs collected from 16 different shops, only one contained less than 80% of its purported active ingredient, and most drugs were within 90% of their listed amounts. No link was found between drug quality and price. Nonetheless, while ACT is the recommended first-line treatment in Ghana, 21% of the drugs collected were artemisinin monotherapy, and 27% of the ACT was not co-formulated. Among caregivers, higher education was found to be associated with both an increased likelihood of seeking treatment in a clinic first, as opposed to visiting drug shops or using herbal remedies, and with purchasing drugs from licensed sellers.

Conclusion

Surprisingly, drug quality was found to be uniformly high and thus no significant relationship between price, treatment-seeking behaviour and the content of the active ingredients was observed. However, artemisinin monotherapy, which the WHO considers inappropriate therapy, was still widely available in Ghana in 2010. Monotherapy was more likely to be available in unlicensed vendors where less-educated caregivers generally shopped. This linkage between education, treatment-seeking behaviour and drug availability suggests that the global subsidy to reduce the cost of co-formulated ACT can play a significant role in increasing its availability.
Pfatp6 molecular profile of Plasmodium falciparum isolates in the western Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Brasil Larissa W , Areas André LL , Melo Gisely C , Oliveira Cintia MC , C Alecrim Maria G , G Lacerda Marcus V , O'Brien Connor , Oelemann Walter MR , Zalis Mariano G
Published: April 2012

Background

Anti-malarial drug resistance has emerged as one of the biggest challenges confronting the worldwide effort to control malaria. The appearance of chloroquine and multi-drug resistance had devastating effects on therapeutic efficacy of former first-line agents. Artemisinin has proven to be an excellent therapeutic alternative to fill the void in chemotherapeutic options left by resistance mechanisms. At the time of introduction, no resistance to artemisinins had been recorded, and artemisinins demonstrated excellent parasite reduction rates. In an attempt to protect artemisinin efficacy, the World Health Organization (WHO) made artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) its official first-line treatment recommendation for uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum in 2006. In Brazil, artemether/lumefantrine became the Brazilian Malaria Control Programme's official treatment recommendation in 2007. The sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ - ATPase ortholog of P. falciparum (pfatp 6) has been suggested as one of the targets of artemisinins. Consequently, pfatp 6 gene polymorphisms are being investigated as markers of artemisinin resistance elsewhere. The goal of this work was to describe the molecular profile of pfatp 6 in P. falciparum isolates from different localities in the Amazonas State.

Methods

DNA polymorphisms of the pfatp6 gene in 80 P. falciparum isolates from 11 municipalities of the Amazonas State (Western Brazilian Amazon), before and after the introduction of ACT in the Brazilian anti-malarial guidelines, were analysed by automatic sequencing. Mutations in the pfatp6 gene were searched using Mutation Surveyor v3.25 software.

Results

The P. falciparum pfatp6 gene presented polymorphisms at codons 37, 630 and 898. The R37K mutation was found in 16% of the samples, A630S in 32% and I898I in 52%. No S769N mutation, however, was detected in the analysed samples.

Conclusion

Despite the small number of samples, data presented here provide baseline information about polymorphisms of pfatp6 gene before and after exposure to ACT in a low transmission area, which will help to infer drug selection pressure in this area in the future.
Surgical treatment of tricuspid regurgitation after mitral valve surgery: a retrospective study in China
Authors: Li Zong-Xiao , Guo Zhi-Peng , Liu Xiao-Cheng , Kong Xiang-Rong , Jing Wen-Bin , Chen Tie-Nan , Lu Wan-Li , He Guo-Wei
Published: April 2012

Background

Functional tricuspid regurgitation (TR) occurs in patients with rheumatic mitral valve disease even after mitral valve surgery. The aim of this study was to analyze surgical results of TR after previous successful mitral valve surgery.

Methods

From September 1996 to September 2008, 45 patients with TR after previous mitral valve replacement underwent second operation for TR. In those, 43 patients (95.6%) had right heart failure symptoms (edema of lower extremities, ascites, hepatic congestion, etc.) and 40 patients (88.9%) had atrial fibrillation. Twenty-six patients (57.8%) were in New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class III, and 19 (42.2%) in class IV. Previous operations included: 41 for mechanical mitral valve replacement (91.1%), 4 for bioprosthetic mitral valve replacement (8.9%), and 7 for tricuspid annuloplasty (15.6%).

Results

The tricuspid valves were repaired with Kay's (7 cases, 15.6%) or De Vega technique (4 cases, 8.9%). Tricuspid valve replacement was performed in 34 cases (75.6%). One patient (2.2%) died. Postoperative low cardiac output (LCO) occurred in 5 patients and treated successfully. Postoperative echocardiography showed obvious reduction of right atrium and ventricle. The anterioposterior diameter of the right ventricle decreased to 25.5 ± 7.1 mm from 33.7 ± 6.2 mm preoperatively (P < 0. 05).

Conclusion

TR after mitral valve replacement in rheumatic heart disease is a serious clinical problem. If it occurs or progresses late after mitral valve surgery, tricuspid valve annuloplasty or replacement may be performed with satisfactory results. Due to the serious consequence of untreated TR, aggressive treatment of existing TR during mitral valve surgery is recommended.
Oral nystatin prophylaxis in surgical/trauma ICU patients: a randomised clinical trial
Authors: Giglio Mariateresa , Caggiano Giuseppina , Dalfino Lidia , Brienza Nicola , Alicino Ilaria , Sgobio Aurelia , Favale Antonella , Coretti Caterina , Montagna Maria Teresa , Bruno Francesco , Puntillo Filomena
Published: April 2012

Introduction

Candida prophylaxis in ICU is still a matter of debate. Oral chemoprophylaxis has been advocated to reduce the incidence of Candida colonisation and infection.

Methods

We performed a randomised trial studying a single drug (nystatin) versus control in surgical/trauma ICU patients. Multiple-site testing for fungi was performed in each patient on ICU admission (T0) and subsequently every 3 days (T3, T6, T9, and so forth). The primary evaluation criterion was the time course of the corrected colonisation index.

Results

Ninety-nine patients were enrolled. At admission, 69 patients exhibited Candida colonisation: the most frequently colonised body sites were the stomach and the pharynx. The most frequent isolated species was Candida albicans. The corrected colonisation index was similar in the two groups at T0 (P = 0.36), while a significant statistical difference was observed between the treatment and control groups at T6 (median 0.14 and 0.33, respectively; P = 0.0016), at T9 (median 0.00 and 0.28, respectively; P = 0.0001), at T12 (median 0.00 and 0.41, respectively; P = 0.0008), and at T15 (median 0.00 and 0.42, respectively; P < 0.0003). The same results were obtained in the subgroup of patients already colonised at ICU admission.

Conclusion

This trial shows that nystatin prophylaxis significantly reduces fungal colonisation in surgical/trauma ICU patients, even if already colonised.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01495039
Stromal-derived IL-6 alters the balance of myeloerythroid progenitors during Toxoplasma gondii infection
Authors: Chou David B , Sworder Brian , Bouladoux Nicolas , Roy Cindy N , Uchida Amiko M , Grigg Michael , Robey Pamela G , Belkaid Yasmine
Published: April 2012

BMSCs are critical regulators of the hematopoietic response to inflammation through secretion of IL-6.

Inflammation alters hematopoiesis, often by decreasing erythropoiesis and enhancing myeloid output. The mechanisms behind these changes and how the BM stroma contributes to this process are active areas of research. In this study, we examine these questions in the setting of murine Toxoplasma gondii infection. Our data reveal that infection alters early myeloerythroid differentiation, blocking erythroid development beyond the Pre MegE stage, while expanding the GMP population. IL-6 was found to be a critical mediator of these differences, independent of hepcidin-induced iron restriction. Comparing the BM with the spleen showed that the hematopoietic response was driven by the local microenvironment, and BM chimeras demonstrated that radioresistant cells were the relevant source of IL-6 in vivo. Finally, direct ex vivo sorting revealed that VCAM+CD146lo BM stromal fibroblasts significantly increase IL-6 secretion after infection. These data suggest that BMSCs regulate the hematopoietic changes during inflammation via IL-6.
The molecular chaperone Hsp47 is essential for cartilage and endochondral bone formation
Authors: Masago Yusaku , Hosoya Akihiro , Kawasaki Kunito , Kawano Shogo , Nasu Akira , Toguchida Junya , Fujita Katsumasa , Nakamura Hiroaki , Kondoh Gen , Nagata Kazuhiro
Published: April 2012

Heat shock protein 47 kDa (Hsp47) is considered as a molecular chaperone essential for the correct folding of type I and type IV procollagen in the ER. However, the function of Hsp47 for other types of procollagen and its importance for chondrogenesis have never been elucidated. To examine the function of Hsp47 in cartilage formation and endochondral ossification, we conditionally inactivated the Hsp47 gene in chondrocytes using Hsp47 floxed mice and mice carrying a chondrocyte-specific Col2a1–Cre transgene. Hsp47 conditional null mutant mice died just before or shortly after birth, and exhibited severe generalized chondrodysplasia and bone deformities with lower levels of type II and type XI collagen. Second-harmonic generation (SHG) analysis and electron microscopy revealed the accumulation of misaligned type I collagen molecules in the intervertebral discs and a substantial decrease in type II collagen fibers, respectively. Whole-mount skeletal staining showed no calcified region in the vertebral bodies of sacral vertebrae, and revealed that the endochondral bones were severely twisted and shortened. These results demonstrate that Hsp47 is indispensable for well-organized cartilage and normal endochondral bone formation.
LIMK2 is a crucial regulator and effector of Aurora-A-kinase-mediated malignancy
Authors: Johnson Emmanuel O. , Chang Kuei-Hua , Ghosh Soumitra , Venkatesh Chelvam , Giger Katie , Low Philip S. , Shah Kavita
Published: April 2012

Aurora A is overexpressed in majority of breast carcinomas. With the exception of BRCA1 and PHLDA1, no oncogenic Aurora A substrates are known in breast cancer. In this study, a chemical genetic approach was used to identify malignant targets of Aurora A, which revealed LIMK2 as a novel Aurora A substrate. Aurora A regulates LIMK2 kinase activity, subcellular localization and protein levels by direct phosphorylation at S283, T494 and T505. In response, LIMK2 also positively regulates the level of Aurora A, thereby engaging in a positive-feedback loop, promoting Aurora-A-mediated oncogenic pathways. Most importantly, LIMK2 ablation fully abrogates Aurora-A-mediated tumorigenesis in nude mice, suggesting that LIMK2 is a key oncogenic effector of Aurora A. Furthermore, LIMK2 ablation acts synergistically with inhibition of Aurora A in promoting cell death. Finally, Aurora-A-mediated upregulation of LIMK2 appears to be a common mechanism in many cancers. LIMK2 inhibition or ablation is therefore an alternative approach for modulating Aurora A deregulation in cancer.
Development of Non-Siliceous Porous Materials and Emerging Applications
Authors: Fujita Koji
Published: April 2012

This account presents the preparation, characterization, and applications of porous sol–gel materials with particular emphasis on non-siliceous oxide compositions and morphology control. The potential and versatility of innovative synthesis strategies that have been developed to broaden the range of achievable compositions and functionalities are briefly discussed. The synthesis approach involves polymerization-induced phase separation and concurrent sol–gel transition under well-controlled reactions conditions, producing monolithic gels with well-defined macroporous bicontinuous structures. By optimizing the template-free synthesis routes including the postgelation treatments, one can obtain non-siliceous monolithic materials with controllable macropores and mesopores. Promising results for chromatographic and optical applications are also demonstrated taking porous titania monoliths as a example.
Highly Disordered Crystalline-Phase Transition of Tetrakis(1-adamantanecarboxymethyl)methane
Authors: Li Rong , Pan Chunyue , Xiong Shaohui , Yu Guipeng , Wang Pingshan , Zou Yingping , Zhang Aiqing
Published: April 2012

Tetrakis(1-adamantanecarboxymethyl)methane was prepared by indirect esterification. DSC traces of tetrakis(1-adamantanecarboxymethyl)methane showed two endothermic peaks. Entropy ratio of these two peaks is: ΔStrs/ΔSfus = 1.58 > 1. XRD confirmed the solid–solid transition and analysis of XRD by DICVOL demonstrated tetrakis(1-adamantanecarboxymethyl)methane is a new compound with a highly disordered crystalline phase. Analysis of entropy changes at transitions showed why fusion entropy (ΔSfus = 70.07 J mol−1 K−1) of tetrakis(1-adamantanecarboxymethyl)methane is much larger than Timmermans’ criterion.
The Effect of Shift Structure on Performance
Authors: Brachet Tanguy , David Guy , Drechsler Andrea M
Published: April 2012

The effect of shift structure on worker performance and productivity is of increasing interest to firms and regulatory bodies. Using approximately 743,000 emergency medical incidents attended by 2,381 paramedics in Mississippi, we evaluate the extent that paramedics' performance toward the end of shifts is impacted by shift length. We find evidence that performance deteriorates toward the end of long shifts, and argue that fatigue is the mediating factor. Our calculations imply that such deterioration may result in a 0.76 percent increase in 30-day mortality. These findings have implications for workforce organization, calling attention to regulation designed to limit extended work hours. (JEL J22, J24, J28, J45, M12)
The Impact of Credit on Village Economies
Authors: Kaboski Joseph P , Townsend Robert M
Published: April 2012

This paper evaluates the short- and longer term impact of Thailand's “Million Baht Village Fund” program, among the largest scale government microfinance iniatives in the world, using pre- and post-program panel data and quasi-experimental cross-village variation in credit per household. We find that the village funds have increased total short-term credit, consumption, agricultural investment, and income growth (from business and labor), but decreased overall asset growth. We also find a positive impact on wages, an important general equilibrium effect. The findings are broadly consistent qualitatively with models of credit-constrained household behavior and models of intermediation and growth. (JEL D14, G21, O12, O16, O18)
Diffusion-weighted MRI in renal cell carcinoma: A surrogate marker for predicting nuclear grade and histological subtype
Authors: Goyal Ankur , Sharma Raju , Bhalla Ashu S , Gamanagatti Shivanand , Seth Amlesh , Iyer Venkateswaran K , Das Prasenjit
Published: April 2012

Background

Though previous investigators have attempted to evaluate its utility in characterization of focal renal lesions, diffusion-weighted MR imaging (DW MRI) in renal diseases is still an evolving field and its role in predicting the aggressiveness of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is yet to be established.

Purpose

To assess whether apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values can be used to determine the nuclear grade and histological subtype of RCCs and to identify the tumor attributes contributing to variation in ADC values.

Material and Methods

The institutional ethics committee waived the requirement of informed consent for this retrospective study. The study cohort consisted of 33 patients who underwent MRI (with diffusion-weighted imaging at b values of 0 and 500 s/mm2) and were found to have 36 pathologically-proven RCCs. ADC values were determined for solid portions of RCC, cystic/hemorrhagic areas, and normal renal parenchyma. Histological subtype, nuclear grade, and cell count were determined for each lesion. ADC values were compared between different grades and subtypes and correlation with cell count was investigated. Receiver operating characteristic curves were drawn to establish cut-off ADC values.

Results

There were 23 low grade (grades I and II) and 13 high grade tumors (grades III and IV). There were 32 clear-cell and four non-clear-cell RCCs. A decreasing trend of ADC values was seen with increasing grade and mean ADC of high grade RCC was significantly lower than low grade (1.3145 vs 1.6982 × 10−3 mm2/s) ( P = 0.005). Mean ADC for clear-cell RCC was significantly higher than non-clear-cell RCC (1.6245 vs. 1.0412 × 10−3 mm2/s) ( P = 0.005). ADC values higher than 1.7960 × 10−3 mm2/s were seen only with low grade and values greater than 1.4904 × 10−3 mm2/s were seen only with clear-cell RCC.

Conclusion

ADC values provide a non-invasive means to predict the nuclear grade and histological subtype of RCC. Cellularity and morphology are other tumor attributes contributing to the variation in ADC values of RCCs.
Attracting Foreign Direct Investment: Applying Dunning's Location Advantages Framework to FDI Advertising
Authors: Wilson Rick T. , Baack Daniel W.
Published: April 2012

Countries compete intensely for foreign direct investment (FDI) and perform a wide range of activities to attract it. Research on FDI promotion often overlooks the effects of advertising. To fill this gap in the literature, this study analyzes the content of FDI advertising to explain its structure. To guide the analysis, the authors use Dunning's FDI location advantages framework. This framework represents an effective prism through which to view FDI advertising, and Dunning's location advantages are reflected in advertising content. In an effort to shed more light on FDI advertising, the authors first provide an assessment of how advertising content varies by country income classification. Next, using exploratory factor analysis, they identify the five factors represented in FDI advertising: knowledge resources, market attractiveness, economic governance, infrastructure, and natural resources. The findings suggest that high-income countries tend to focus on knowledge resources, while lower-middle-income countries focus on economic governance. Upper-middle-income countries tap into both knowledge resources and economic governance while also promoting the attractiveness of their market.
Estimating the Education-Health Relationship: A Cost-Utility Approach
Authors: Golberstein Ezra , Hirth Richard A. , Lantz Paula M.
Published: April 2012

While considerable research studies the association between education and health, no prior research estimates the magnitude of health improvements associated with more schooling, accounting for both quantity and quality of life. We use longitudinal PSID data that combines repeated survey measures of health status with mortality data to measure the number of Quality-Adjusted Life Years accruing over a 23-year period. To reduce endogeneity concerns we utilize detailed survey information on family background, cognitive, and non-cognitive skills; and we estimate sibling fixed effects models. An additional year of schooling is associated with 0.20-0.38 additional QALYs over the 23-year study period. These estimates are considerably larger than looking at quality-unadjusted life years. We estimate that an additional year of schooling is associated with an incremental discounted lifetime value of $26,000-$49,000 of health. To the extent that our results approximate causal estimates, increasing education may be a cost-effective way to improve population health.
Classification of surfaces of general type with Euler number 3
Authors: Yeung Sai-Kee
Published: April 2012

The smallest topological Euler–Poincaré characteristic supported on a smooth surface of general type is 3. In this paper, we show that such a surface has to be a fake projective plane unless h1, 0﻿(M) = 1. Together with the classification of fake projective planes given by Prasad and Yeung, the recent work of Cartwright and Steger, and a proof of the arithmeticity of the lattices involved in the present article, this gives a classification of such surfaces.
The composition Hall algebra of a weighted projective line
Authors: Burban Igor , Schiffmann Olivier
Published: April 2012

In this article, we deal with properties of the reduced Drinfeld double of the composition subalgebra of the Hall algebra of the category of coherent sheaves on a weighted projective line. This study is motivated by applications in the theory of quantized enveloping algebras of some Lie algebras. We obtain a new realization of the quantized enveloping algebras of affine Lie algebras of simply-laced types as well as some new embeddings between them. Moreover, our approach allows to derive new results on the structure of the quantized enveloping algebras of the toroidal algebras of types D4﻿(1, 1), E6﻿(1, 1), E7﻿(1, 1) and E8﻿(1, 1). In particular, our method leads to a construction of a modular action and allows to define a PBW-type basis for that classes of algebras.
The u-invariant of p-adic function fields
Authors: Leep David B.
Published: April 2012

Over a finitely generated field extension in m variables over a p-adic field, any quadratic form in more than 2m + 2 variables has a nontrivial zero. This bound is sharp. We extend this result to a wider class of fields. A key ingredient to our proofs is a recent result of Heath-Brown on systems of quadratic forms over p-adic fields.
A Unified Proof of Two Classical Theorems on CNS Polynomials
Authors: Brunotte Horst
Published: April 2012

A sufficient condition for a monic integer polynomial to be a semi-CNS polynomial is presented. This result infers a unified proof of two well-known theorems on irreducible CNS polynomials thereby extending them to reducible polynomials.
Sum-Products Estimates with Several Sets and Applications
Authors: Balog Antal , Broughan Kevin A. , Shparlinski Igor E.
Published: April 2012

We obtain several versions of the sum-product theorem with
Resolving textual discrepancies in fictional story worlds: Two approaches and further suggestions
Authors: Marcus, Amit
Published: April 2012

This essay compares two models for resolving textual discrepancies in fictional worlds: Tamar Yacobi's model of communication and Jan Alber's model of naturalizing unnatural narrative scenarios and events. I argue that irrespective of the specific mechanisms of integration, such approaches should satisfy at least four conditions: present a set of strategies broad enough to handle all types of textual discrepancies that the particular approach aims to encompass; make the most concise and precise distinctions between the different strategies; clarify the logical relations between the strategies; and explicate the relation of these strategies to the history of fictional narratives and of the strategies themselves. The essay critically examines both approaches and compares them in light of these four conditions. I complete the essay with a reading of Edgar Allan Poe's story “The Black Cat,” through which I illustrate my proposal for a combination and a modification of these two approaches.
Reading a poet reading
Authors: Webster, Jonathan
Published: April 2012

There is something inexplicable about our potential for ceaseless creativity, in both the making and the reading of meaning, not just in poetry, or some other form of verbal art, but in every aspect of our lives. In “A poet reading”, the poet Edwin Thumboo explores our capacity for ceaseless creativity in language with a poem whose meaning is bounded only by whatever readings the grammar will allow. Reading “A poet reading”, the linguist attempts a ‘raid on the inarticulate’, to gain insight into the reality-generating power and creative energy of grammar as system of meaning potential.
An introduction to the semantics of intertextuality
Authors: Panagiotidou, Maria-Eirini
Published: April 2012

This paper engages with intertextuality and proposes a cognitively-informed approach to it based on the notion of semantic intertextual frames, an online processing domain which regulates the construction of word-level intertextual links. The construction of these frames is discussed in terms of Evans' LCCM Theory (Theory of Lexical Concepts and Cognitive Models), and the distinction he draws between lexical concepts and cognitive models. Lexical concepts afford access to cognitive models via direct or indirect access routes. Word-level intertextual connections are explained based on the identification of the same lexical item, a cognitive synonym or a hyponym. In the first two cases a direct access route to the cognitive model is afforded by the lexical concepts, while in the latter this route is indirect. A number of examples drawn from literary texts are used to illustrate the model.
Defining the reliable narrator: The marked status of first-person fiction
Authors: Murphy, Terence Patrick
Published: April 2012

In The Rhetoric of Fiction (1961), Wayne Booth first proposed the critical concepts of the reliable and unreliable narrator. Booth suggested that the notion of reliability was best defined in terms of its underlying relationship to the implied author. But this attempted linkage was never a truly secure one; and in the intervening years, a protracted debate has persisted regarding this central issue. This paper suggests that the key to resolving this debate is the formulation of a more secure definition of narrative reliability. The linguistic concept of markedness provides the critical means for doing this. Using the test case of Nick Carraway in The Great Gatsby, five determinants of a reliable narrator in first-person fiction are suggested: a secure speaking-location back home; the use of the classical middle style of standard English; observer-narrator status; ethical maturity; and a plot structure which involves the retrospective re-evaluation or Aristotelian anagnorisis of a character other than the narrator. If this much is accepted, unreliable narration may be defined in terms of a range of departures from this basic model.
The Music USE (MUSE) Questionnaire: An Instrument to Measure Engagement in Music
Authors: Chin TanChyuan , Rickard Nikki S.
Published: April 2012

active engagement with music has been associated with cognitive, emotional, and social benefits, although measures of musicianship are typically limited to music training. A self-report questionnaire was developed to assess both quality and quantity of different forms of music use, with eight music background items, and a further 124 items testing music engagement. Analysis of engagement items with an initial sample (N = 210; mean age = 37.55 years, SD = 11.31) generated four reliable engagement styles (Cognitive and Emotional Regulation, Engaged Production, Social Connection, Dance and Physical Exercise). Analysis of an independent sample with a refined 50-item scale (N = 124; mean age = 22.78 years, SD = 6.17) supported the findings, further differentiating between “Physical Exercise” and “Dance.” Taken together with the eight music background items, the Music USE (MUSE) questionnaire can be used as a 58-item, or in a reduced 32-item format. Validity was demonstrated in relationships between music background indices, styles of music engagement, demographics, the brief Music Experience Questionnaire (Werner, Swope, & Heide, 2006), and the Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (Gross & John, 2003). The MUSE offers researchers a sensitive approach to exploring benefits of music engagement, by encapsulating both quality and quantity dimensions of music use.
Antioxidant activity by DPPH assay of potential solutions to be applied on bleached teeth
Authors: Garcia Eugenio José , Oldoni Tatiane Luiza Cadorin , Alencar Severino Matias de , Reis Alessandra , Loguercio Alessandro D. , Grande Rosa Helena Miranda
Published: April 2012

The aim of this study was to assess, using the DPPH assay, the antioxidant activity of several substances that could be proposed to immediately revert the problems caused by bleaching procedures. The percentage of antioxidant activity (AA%) of 10% ascorbic acid solution (AAcidS), 10% ascorbic acid gel (AAcidG), 10% sodium ascorbate solution (SodAsS), 10% sodium ascorbate gel (SodAsG), 10% sodium bicarbonate (Bicarb), NeutralizeÂ® (NE), DesensibilizeÂ® (DES), catalase C-40 at 10 mg/mL (CAT), 10% alcohol solution of alpha-tocopherol (VitE), ListerineÂ® (LIS), 0.12% chlorhexidine (CHX), Croton Lechleri (CL), 10 % aqueous solution of Uncaria Tomentosa (UT), artificial saliva (ArtS) and 0.05% sodium fluoride (NaF) was assessed in triplicate by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate (DPPH) free radical assay. All substances exhibited antioxidant activity, except for CL. AAcidS, AAcidG and VitE exhibited the highest AA% (p<0.05). On the contrary, CHX, NE, LIS and NaF showed the lowest AA% (p<0.05). In conclusion, AAcidS, AAcidG, SodAsS, SodAsG and VitE presented the highest antioxidant activity among substances tested in this study. The DPPH assay provides an easy and rapid way to evaluate potential antioxidants.
Bacteriostatic effect of copaiba oil (Copaifera officinalis) against Streptococcus mutans
Authors: Pieri Fábio Alessandro , Mussi Maria Carolina Martins , Fiorini João Evangelista , Moreira Maria Aparecida Scatamburlo , Schneedorf José Mauricio
Published: April 2012

This study evaluated the inhibitory activity of copaiba oil (Copaifera officinalis against the cariogenic microorganism, Streptococcus mutans. For such purpose, a minimum inhibition concentration test of copaiba oil against S. mutans was performed, using the serial dilution in broth technique, with a negative control, a positive control (0.12% chlorhexidine) and a 10% copaíba oil solution as a test. A minimum bactericidal concentration test with tubes presenting microbial inhibition was also conduced. In the minimum inhibitory concentration test, copaiba oil showed inhibition of bacterial growth at all concentrations tested up to 0.78 µL/mL of the 10% copaiba oil solution in the broth. In addition, the negative control had no inhibition, and the 0.12% chlorhexidine solution was effective up to 6.25 µL/mL in the broth. Copaiba oil showed a bacteriostatic activity against S. mutans at low concentrations, and could be a an option of phytotherapic agent to be used against cariogenic bacteria in the prevention of caries disease.
Comparison of different ultrasonic vibration modes for post removal
Authors: Braga Neilor Mateus Antunes , Silva Juliana Monteiro da , Carvalho-Júnior Jacy Ribeiro de , Ferreira Raquel Conceição , Saquy Paulo César , Brito-Júnior Manoel
Published: April 2012

This in vitro study compared different ultrasonic vibration modes for intraradicular cast post removal. The crowns of 24 maxillary canines were removed, the roots were embedded in acrylic resin blocks, and the canals were treated endodontically. The post holes were prepared and root canal impressions were taken with self-cured resin acrylic. After casting, the posts were cemented with zinc phosphate cement. The samples were randomly distributed into 3 groups (n=8): G1: no ultrasonic vibration (control); G2: tip of the ultrasonic device positioned perpendicularly to core surface and close to the incisal edge; and G3: tip of the ultrasonic device positioned perpendicularly to core surface at cervical region, close to the line of cementation. An Enac OE-5 ultrasound unit with an ST-09 tip was used. All samples were submitted to the tensile test using an universal testing machine at a crosshead speed of 1 mm/min. Data were subjected to one-way ANOVA and Tukey's post-hoc tests (α=0.05). Mean values of the load to dislodge the posts (MPa) were: G1 = 4.6 (± 1.4) A; G2 = 2.8 (± 0.9) B, and G3= 0.9 (± 0.3) C. Therefore, the ultrasonic vibration applied with the tip of device close to the core's cervical area showed higher ability to reduce the retention of cast post to root canal.