bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of process parameters on microstructural evolution and mechanical properties in friction stirred Al-2024 (T3) alloy
Authors: Dixit V. , Mishra R. S. , Lederich R. J. , Talwar R.
Published: April 2009

Commercial Al-2024 (T3) alloy was friction stir welded at various heat index (HI) values using bead on plate approach. Quantitative analysis using electron microscopy and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) revealed a complex variation in the precipitation evolution of Guinier-Preston-Bagaryatskii (GPB) zone and Al2CuMg (S phase) precipitates in nugget and heat affected zone (HAZ). Differential scanning calorimetry data also suggested formation energy of GPB zone equal to −236 J g−1. Tensile properties attained a maximum for HI values close to 3·94 in the nugget region, which was attributed to corresponding minimisation of the volume fraction of coarse S phase to the profit of GPB zone. The precipitation of fine S phase precipitates resulted in higher tensile properties in HAZ as compared to those in nugget for all HI values. Experimental data were used to determine major strengthening mechanisms by using constitutive relationships.
Joining phenomena and joint strength of friction welded joint between pure aluminium and low carbon steel
Authors: Kimura M. , Ishii H. , Kusaka M. , Kaizu K. , Fuji A.
Published: April 2009

This paper describes the joining phenomena and joint strength of friction welded joints between pure aluminium (P-Al) and low carbon steel friction welds. When the joint was made at a friction pressure of 30 MPa with a friction speed of 27·5 s−1, the upsetting (deformation) occurred at the P-Al base metal. P-Al transferred to the half radius region of the weld interface on the low carbon steel side, and then it transferred toward the entire weld interface. When the joint was made at a friction time of 0·9 s, i.e. just after the initial peak of the friction torque, it had ∼93% joint efficiency and fractured on the P-Al side. This joint had no intermetallic compound at the weld interface. Then, the joint efficiency slightly decreased with increasing friction time. The joint had a small amount of intermetallic compound at the peripheral region of the weld interface when it was made at a friction time of 2·0 s. When the joint was made at a friction time of 0·9 s, the joint efficiency decreased with increasing forge pressure, and all joints were fractured at the P-Al side. Although the joint by forge pressure of 90 MPa had hardly softened region, it had ∼83% joint efficiency. To clarify the fact of decreasing joint efficiency, the tensile strength of the P-Al base metal at room temperature was investigated, and the tensile test was carried out after various compression stresses and temperatures. The tensile strength of the P-Al base metal has decreased with increasing compression stress at any temperature. Hence, the fact that the joint did not achieve 100% joint efficiency was due to the decrease in the tensile strength of the P-Al base metal by the Bauschinger effect. To obtain higher joint efficiency and fracture on the P-Al side, the joint should be made without higher forge pressure, and with the friction time at which the friction torque reaches the initial peak.
Effect of reduced or zero pin length and anvil insulation on friction stir spot welding thin gauge 6111 automotive sheet
Authors: Bakavos D. , Prangnell P. B.
Published: April 2009

Friction stir spot welding (FSSW) is a relatively new process, which has not yet been fully optimised. The aim of the work presented was to investigate the influence of pin length and an insulating anvil on FSSW thin (0·9 mm) 6111-T4 aluminium automotive closure panels. A pinless, or ‘zero pin length’, tool was also tested. With a normal pin tool and a steel anvil the optimum pin length was found to be considerably shorter than conventionally used, being in the range 0·7–1 mm, as opposed to ∼1·4 mm. The insulated anvil increased the peak temperature in the bottom sheet by 45°C, but there was a 15% reduction in lap shear strength when used with a conventional pin tool. In the case of the pinless tool, successful welds were produced with comparable strengths to the highest values measured with the optimum conventional tool without a retained weld keyhole or top sheet thinning (hooking).
Laser droplet welding of zinc coated steel sheets
Authors: Jerič A. , Grabec I. , Govekar E.
Published: April 2009

The weldability of zinc coated steel sheets is often compromised by weld seam defects caused by rapid zinc vaporisation and burned-off zinc. Owing to this, welded seams usually remain unprotected from corrosion and are accompanied by undesirable porosity. In this paper, the laser droplet generation process and its application to laser droplet welding of zinc coated steel sheets are described. The influences of laser droplet generation and welding process control parameters on the properties of joints of zinc coated steel sheets are presented. Results show that laser droplet welding offers a promising technology for spot and continuous welding of zinc coated steel sheets in different joint configurations with good mechanical properties and corrosion resistance.
Effects of minor additions of Ce and Y on as cast microstructure of Mg–3Sn–2Ca magnesium alloy
Authors: Yang M B , Pan F S , Shen J , Ma Y L
Published: April 2009

The effects of minor additions of Ce and Y on the as cast microstructure of Mg–3Sn–2Ca (wt-) magnesium alloy are investigated and compared. Results indicate that adding minor Ce or Y to Mg–3Sn–2Ca alloy does not cause formation of any new phases in the alloy. The as cast Mg–3Sn–2Ca alloy with addition of 0·5 wt-Ce or Y is still composed of α-Mg, CaMgSn and Mg2Ca phases. However, after adding 0·5 wt-Ce or Y to Mg–3Sn–2Ca alloy, not only the formation of CaMgSn phase in the alloy is suppressed but also the CaMgSn phases in the alloy are effectively refined. In addition, adding 0·5 wt-Ce to Mg–3Sn–2Ca alloy exhibits higher refinement efficiency to the CaMgSn phase in the alloy than adding 0·5 wt-Y. Further investigations need to be considered in order to understand the difference of minor Ce and Y with regard to the refinement of CaMgSn phase in the Mg–3Sn–2Ca alloy.
Superplasticity of Al–Mg–Li alloy prepared by thermomechanical processing
Authors: Zhang X M , Ye L Y , Liu Y W , Tang J G , Zheng D W
Published: April 2009

Grain refinement of Al–Mg–Li alloys for superplasticity prepared by thermomechanical processing has been a difficult task due to the cracking of these alloys when rolled at low temperatures. Raising the rolling temperature resulted in enhanced rollability of these sheets with no cracks but very coarse grains after recrystallisation. To solve this problem, a cross rolling schedule was developed to hinder fracture and simultaneously provide enough stored energy for following recrystallisaiton coupled by lowering the reheating temperature. Fine, equiaxed grains of ∼7 μm was achieved by this new approach and maximum total elongation of about 915 was obtained when deformed at a temperature of 525°C and an initial strain rate of 1×10−3 s−1.
Low temperature deposition of ultrathin molybdenum carbide films and microstructural characterisation
Authors: Tripathi C. C. , Kumar M. , Kumar D. , Avasthi D. K. , Nair K. G. M.
Published: April 2009

Nanostructured thin Mo2C (30 nm) films were prepared on p-Si(100) substrate at room temperature using fast atom beam source sputtering (FABS) technique. The films were characterised using four point probe (FPP), SEM, EDAX, RBS, AFM and XRD measurements. The as deposited Mo2C films were found to have nanocrystalline structure. Single phase hcp β-Mo2C phase formation was observed in low carbon contents films. XRD analysis indicates that increased carbon contents in film leads to formation of multiphase molybdenum carbide along with unreacted constituent metals. The surface roughness and the average grain size measured by AFM were of the order of ∼4 and about 2–4 nm respectively.
Characterisations of electrospark deposition Stellite 6 alloy coating on 316L sealed valve used in nuclear power plant
Authors: Chen C. J. , Wang M. C. , Wang D. S. , Liang H. S. , Feng P.
Published: April 2009

In nuclear plant the protection of the H2BO4 solution seal areas of AISI 316L austenitic steel is accomplished by Stellite 6 plasma cladding layer. Wear defects created in service required the part to be replaced or repaired. No existing repair technologies were practical. Electrospark deposition (ESD) was to repair defects, enabling the parts to be placed back in service. In this paper the authors report the results obtained depositing directly a layer of Stellite 6 alloy onto a 316L austenitic stainless and Stellite 6 plasma cladding layer by using ESD technique. Electrospark deposition can apply metallurgical bonded coatings without the need of post-heat treatment. Structure, hardness, chemical composition and morphology of the ESD coating have been analysed. By electrochemical measurements it is inferred that the corrosion resistance of the ESD coating is comparable to that of the 316L and Stellite 6 plasma cladding layer. The hardness improvement was ascribed to the refine microstructure and the rapid solidification.
Structure and Function of Molecular Assembly. A Personal Reminiscence
Authors: Aoyama Yasuhiro
Published: April 2009

In this account is described an outline of research the author has conducted over the last 35 years. Depending on the type of molecular assemblies dealt with, the whole work is divided into four parts, i.e., small host–guest systems in organic media, infinite solid systems, huge but finite nano systems in aqueous media, and manipulated biological systems. The essence of the host–guest systems (Section 2) is molecular recognition based on convergent multiple interactions involving O–H···O hydrogen bonds, where sugar binding and detailed thermodynamic analysis of multipoint recognition may be taken as highlights. A couple of new fields arise from the host–guest chemistry by paradigm shift. One is in the direction of multiple interactions, from convergent to divergent. Section 3 thus concerns molecular alignment control in crystals using orthogonal aromatic triad and diad building blocks. Catalysis by microporous metallo-organic frameworks as organic zeolites is also described. The other shift in paradigm is in the media, from organic to aqueous, and also in the significance of sugar binding, from sugars as a guest to sugars as a probe. Section 4 is devoted to the highly adhesive (hydrogen bonding) nature of glycocluster compounds and their micelle-like aggregates, focusing on the formation of glycoviruses and glycoviral gene delivery. With DNA and RNA manipulation techniques in hand, we became interested in in-cell gene sensing and transcription monitoring. The latest activity in this area is shown in Section 5. The entire work is design-based. The author, who is soon retiring from Kyoto University, now has mixed feelings about this apparently natural approach, as briefly referred to in the Closing Remark (Section 6).
Phase Separation of Phosphatidylcholine–Water Systems below the Main Transition Temperature Induced by Monovalent Ions
Authors: Fukada Kazuhiro , Miki Nobuhiro
Published: April 2009

Effects of 1:1 electrolytes (LiCl, NaCl, NaBr, KCl, RbCl, and NH4Cl) on the stacked multilamellar structure of phosphatidylcholine–water systems below the acyl-chain melting temperature were examined by means of small-angle X-ray scattering and differential scanning calorimetry. For the ternary DPPC–salt–water system at 20 °C, the lamellar repeating distance, D, jumped from 64 to 72 Å at certain thresholds of electrolyte concentration; 4.0, 2.1, and 1.4 mol kg−1 when LiCl, NaCl, or KCl were added, respectively. The temperature-dependent D jump from 72 to 64 Å at 20 °C was also confirmed for DPPC in 2.1 mol kg−1 NaCl accompanying the small latent heat of ca. 0.033 J g−1. For the DMPC–NaCl–water system at 5 °C, the salt-induced D jump, at a threshold NaCl concentration of 1.2 mol kg−1, was also observed. A triangular phase diagram of DPPC–NaCl–water at 20 °C was constructed based on X-ray scattering data. It was confirmed that the DPPC–NaCl–water system had a three-phase coexisting region, i.e., two lamellar phases with different repeating distances of 64 or 72 Å, respectively, and the NaCl bulk solution. Some qualitative aspects are discussed concerning the interpretation of the phase separation into the two different lamellar phases based on the lipid–monovalent ion interactions.
Proton-Transfer Mechanism in 2-Thioxoimidazolidin-4-one: A Competition between Keto/Enol and Thione/Thiol Tautomerism Reactions
Authors: Bagheri Setodeh , Roohi Hossein
Published: April 2009

The proton transfer in 2-thioxoimidazolidin-4-one (1,3-IM) via two keto/enol and thione/thiol intramolecular mechanisms was investigated by using DFT (B3LYP) and ab initio (MP2) methods in the gas phase. A conspicuous consistency was found between results of B3LYP and MP2 calculations. The change in structural parameters for direct keto/enol tautomerization is greater than thione/thiol transformation on going from ground state to transition state. At both level of calculations, the computed energy barrier for direct and water-assisted keto/enol tautomerization is higher than the corresponding thione/thiol. The energy barriers for direct proton-transfer tautomerization reactions are significantly greater than H2O-assisted tautomerization. The NBO results show that the change of electronic charge of hydrogens involved in migration in direct proton transfer is much greater than in the water-assisted mechanism.
Enantioselective Assembly Structures of Copper(II) and Zinc(II) Complexes with the 1:1 Condensation Products of Imidazole-4-carbaldehyde Derivatives and Dl-Phenylalanine
Authors: Iihoshi Tomotaka , Sato Tetsuya , Towatari Masaaki , Matsumoto Naohide , Kojima Masaaki
Published: April 2009

Copper(II) complexes with tridentate ligands H2LR (R = H, 2-Me, and 5-Me) derived from 1:1 condensation products of Dl-phenylalanine and imidazole-4-carbaldehyde derivatives (imidazole-4-carbaldehyde, 2-methylimidazole-4-carbaldehyde, and 5-methylimidazole-4-carbaldehyde), [CuClHLH] (1), [CuClHL2-Me] (2), [CuClHL5-Me]·MeOH (3), [CuBrHLH] (4a and 4b), and [CuBrHL2-Me] (5), were prepared. Two types of crystals in the reaction vessel, 4a and 4b, were obtained in the reaction between CuBr2 and H2LH. Their assembled structures were determined by single-crystal analysis. Except for 4b, the complexes assumed a homochiral chain structure constructed by intrachain imidazole–carboxylato hydrogen bonds between the adjacent two molecules, and the adjacent chains are linked by interchain Cu–X (X = Cl or Br) interactions. 3 exhibited a shorter interchain Cu–X distance and crystallized in the acentrosymmetric space group C2221 representing a spontaneous resolution (conglomerate), while 1, 2, 4a, and 5 gave a stacking of the adjacent chains with opposite chiralities to give racemic crystals. 4b assumed a homochiral chain structure constructed by a coordination bond between a copper(II) ion and an oxygen atom of the carboxyl group of the adjacent complex. A zinc(II) complex, [ZnClHLH] (6), showed a similar racemic crystal to that of 4b.
Photochemical Modulation of Europium Ion Fluorescence Using a Tetraazamacrocyclic Derivative Bearing a Spirobenzopyran and Three Carboxymethyl Moieties
Authors: Machitani Koji , Nakahara Yoshio , Kimura Keiichi
Published: April 2009

The fluorescence properties of a Eu3+ complex with a tetraazamacrocyclic derivative bearing a spirobenzopyran and three carboxymethyl moieties were investigated. The enhanced fluorescence of Eu3+, which proved that the spirobenzopyran moiety worked as an antenna for the sensitization, was controlled photochemically.
Photochromic Inclusion Crystals of Phosphonium Halides with Aromatic Alcohols
Authors: Tanaka Koichi , Itoh Hidehiro , Nakashima Aki , Wójcik Dominik , Urbanczyk-Lipkowska Zofia
Published: April 2009

Some inclusion crystals of phosphonium salts with aromatic alcohols showed thermally reversible photochromism in the solid state. Corresponding to the color development, ESR signals appeared in the inclusion crystals. The crystal structures of the inclusion crystals were determined by X-ray analysis.
Modification of Spectroscopic Properties and Catalytic Activity of Escherichia coli CueO by Mutations of Methionine 510, the Axial Ligand to the Type I Cu
Authors: Kurose Shinji , Kataoka Kunishige , Shinohara Naoya , Miura Yuko , Tsutsumi Maiko , Tsujimura Seiya , Kano Kenji , Sakurai Takeshi
Published: April 2009

Replacement of Met510, the axial ligand to the type I Cu in a cuprous oxidase CueO, with Leu afforded the three-coordinated type I Cu, while Gln, Ala, and Thr mutations led to the replacement of the thioether ligand with oxygen ligands (amide carbonyl group and water), and characteristic properties of absorption, circular dichroism, and electron paramagnetic resonance spectra of a variety of Met510 mutants were correlated with the changes in redox potential and enzyme activities.
Accelerated Saponification of Methyl Dodecanoate with Aqueous Sodium Hydroxide Solution in the Presence of Alcohols in a Silicone Rubber Tube as a Flow-Type Reactor
Authors: Kamiouji Atsushi , Hashimoto Keiji , Kominami Hiroshi , Ito Seishiro
Published: April 2009

Saponification of methyl dodecanoate with an aqueous sodium hydroxide solution in the absence and presence of alcohols was studied using a tubular reactor made of silicone tube to elucidate effects of alcohol addition on the saponification. The reaction rates of saponification were accelerated significantly when alcohols were dissolved in methyl dodecanoate and the rates were increased in the order: without alcohol << ethanol < propanol < butanol. The rates in all cases obeyed the Nernst diffusion rate equation, and the values of apparent diffusion constant, ka, that were determined from the slope of Nernst plots were increased in the above order, indicating that diffusion of sodium ion in the aqueous solution into the mixture of methyl dodecanoate and alcohol was much easier than that to methyl dodecanoate without alcohol. The values of ka increased with increase in the amount of butanol both in the tubular reactor and in a beaker (batch system). The thickness of the diffusion layer, δ, decreased with increase in the amount of butanol in the saponification in the tubular reactor, suggesting that the increase in ka in the saponification in the presence of butanol in the tubular reactor can be explained by decrease in values of δ.
Synthesis of Optically Active Spiro Compounds with a 3,3′-(4H,4′H)-Spirobi(2H-naphtho[1,2-b]pyran) Skeleton and Their Applications as Chiral Dopants for Nematic Liquid Crystals
Authors: Tojo Kenta , Arisawa Tatsuya , Aoki Yoshio , Terunuma Daiyo
Published: April 2009

Chiral dopants with a spiro structure for nematic liquid crystals were synthesized from optically active 3,3′-(4H,4′H)-spirobi(2H-naphtho[1,2-b]pyran)-6,6′-dicarboxylic acid, and their helical twisting power (HTP) values were evaluated. Chiral dopants having the S configuration induced minus helices in the host nematic liquid crystals. It was found that the novel ester-linked spiro chiral dopants exhibited large molar HTP values. In particular, a chiral dopant with two pyrimidine structures in the side chain moiety showed the highest molar HTP value of 62.1 µm−1 mol−1 kg. In contrast, ether-linked chiral dopants showed relatively small molar HTP values.
Investigation of the Effect of the NH···OC Hydrogen Bond from Cys69 to PYP Chromophore Using Novel Active-center Model Compound
Authors: Okamoto Kentaro , Hamada Norio , Sumi Toshiaki , Okamura Taka-aki , Ueyama Norikazu , Yamamoto Hitoshi
Published: April 2009

A PYP active-center model compound containing a hydrogen bond to the conjugated carbonyl oxygen was synthesized and its effect on the electronic properties of the chromophore were investigated. The intramolecular hydrogen bond induces significant change in the absorption maximum of the π–π* transition in the chromophore.
Direct Transformation of Unprotected Sugars to Aryl 1-Thio-β-glycosides in Aqueous Media Using 2-Chloro-1,3-dimethylimidazolinium Chloride
Authors: Tanaka Tomonari , Matsumoto Takeshi , Noguchi Masato , Kobayashi Atsushi , Shoda Shin-ichiro
Published: April 2009

Aryl 1-thioglycosides have directly been synthesized in good yields from the corresponding unprotected sugars and thiols without protection of the hydroxy groups by using 2-chloro-1,3-dimethylimidazolinium chloride (DMC) as dehydrative condensing agent. The reaction proceeded in a mixed solvent of water and acetonitrile under mild reaction conditions, leading to the predominant formation of β-anomers.
Atom-transfer Radical Addition of α-Iodo Esters to 1-Alkynyl Sulfides
Authors: Imoto Junichi , Sato Akinori , Yorimitsu Hideki , Oshima Koichiro
Published: April 2009

Atom-transfer radical addition of α-iodo esters to 1-alkynyl sulfides is described. The products, 2-alkoxycarbonylmethyl-1-iodo-1-alkenyl sulfides, can be converted into γ-keto esters.
Seed-mediated Preparation of CuO Nanoflowers and their Application as Hydrazine Sensor
Authors: Zhang Xiaojun , Gu Aixia , Wang Guangfeng , Wang Wen , Wu Huaqiang , Fang Bin
Published: April 2009

CuO nanoflowers made up of nanobelts (CuO NFNBs) were successfully prepared in one step by a simple and reliable seed-mediated route, employing only Cu(NO3)2 and NH3·H2O as the starting materials. The as-prepared sample was characterized by XRD, FESEM, and TEM techniques. The growth mechanism of these nanostructures is discussed. A glassy carbon electrode modified with CuO NFNBs was then used to detect hydrazine. The results show that the CuO NFNBs show a very high activity for detecting hydrazine.
B12–TiO2 Hybrid Catalyst for Dehalogenation of Organic Halides
Authors: Shimakoshi Hisashi , Sakumori Emiko , Kaneko Kenji , Hisaeda Yoshio
Published: April 2009

A cobalamin derivative, cobyrinic acid, was effectively immobilized on TiO2, and the hybrid TiO2 was characterized by UV–vis, XPS, MALDI-TOFMS as well as TEM analysis. The hybrid TiO2 exhibits high reactivity for dehalogenation of various organic halides such as phenethyl bromide, benzyl bromide, and 1,1-bis(4-chlorophenyl)-2,2,2-trichloroethane (DDT) under irradiation with UV light at room temperature.
From Supramolecular Hydrogel to Macroscopic Spheres: Nucleation-controlled Polymorphic Transition
Authors: Wang Yu Jiang , Chen Kai , Tang Li Ming
Published: April 2009

A new kind of hydrogelator based on a p-hydroxypyridinium salt of 1,2,4-benzenetricarboxylic acid formed standard hydrogel at higher concentration, while self-assembled to globular structures at lower concentration, which could be explained by nucleation-controlled processes.
An empirical analysis of the reduction in medical expenditure by e-health users
Authors: Akematsu Yuji , Tsuji Masatsugu
Published: April 2009

We examined the medical expenditure of elderly residents who used an e-health system in Nishiaizu town. Since 1994, health-related data, such as blood pressure, ECG and blood oxygen, have been transmitted to a remote medical institution via a telecommunications network. We selected 412 users from the list of registered e-health users in the town. We also selected 450 residents who were not e-health users. We sent them questionnaires and obtained 199 valid responses from e-health users and 209 from non-users. Then we examined the receipts of these 408 people, which were kept in paper form in the town office. Based on a multiple regression analysis, we found that users of the e-health system had lower medical expenditure for lifestyle-related illness than non-users. The medical expenditure of e-health users was lower than that of non-users by 15,302 yen (US$ 133) per year. This amount was approximately 21% of the average annual medical expenditure of the residents. The results also showed that: long-time users of e-health had lower medical expenditure on lifestyle-related illness; long-time users of e-health had lower medical expenditure than those who used it for a shorter time; e-health had more effect on people with diseases than those without.
A review of the role of telemedicine in the accident and emergency department
Authors: Keane Margaret Geraldine
Published: April 2009

A literature search was conducted for articles on the role of telemedicine in accident and emergency work. The search yielded 39 relevant papers, which came from 21 independent groups that had used telemedicine in an emergency medicine setting. The articles showed that telemedicine has been applied in a variety of ways from medical advice for paramedics in the disaster setting, to patient follow-up in the fracture clinic. A variety of communications equipment has been tried, including radio links, telephone, email and mobile wireless videoconferencing devices. All such links have been found to transfer information effectively, but success has sometimes been limited by technical failure and by staff lacking confidence in using the systems. Telemedicine has been used widely to support emergency nurse practitioners in minor injury units. Telemedicine has also been suggested as a way for paramedics to communicate with regional coronary care units quickly, hence enabling them to provide pre-hospital thrombolysis in the field when appropriate. The accident and emergency setting is well suited to the application of telemedicine. Larger trials and cost-effectiveness studies are required in this area.
Use of videoconferencing in Wales to reduce carbon dioxide emissions, travel costs and time
Authors: Lewis Delyth , Tranter Glynis , Axford Alan T
Published: April 2009

In September 2005 a telemedicine service was started to assist multidisciplinary teams in Wales to improve cancer services. In October 2006 and October 2007 users of videoconferencing equipment at one site completed questionnaires. During October 2006 a total of 18,000 km of car travel were avoided, equivalent to 1696 kg of CO2 emission. During October 2007 a total of 20,800 km of car travel were avoided, equivalent to 2590 kg of CO2 emission. We estimate that 48 trees would take a year to absorb that quantity of CO2. The results of the surveys show that exploiting telemedicine makes better use of staff time, reduces the time spent travelling and assists in reducing climate change by limiting the emissions of CO2.
Awareness and attitudes to telemedicine among doctors and patients in India
Authors: Meher Sushil K , Tyagi Rajeshwar S , Chaudhry Tanushree
Published: April 2009

We collected information about awareness and attitudes to telemedicine from 143 doctors at 14 different hospitals in India, and from 121 patients who had come to New Delhi for treatment from other parts of India. Most doctors felt that telemedicine was important and their opinions were similar in all age groups. Only three of the 14 hospitals had not implemented telemedicine. A total of 86 doctors had used telemedicine. One hundred of the 121 patients were not aware of telemedicine. However, when the concept was explained, most patients had a positive attitude towards telemedicine. The majority of patients who had previously used telemedicine ( n = 7) found it satisfactory. It is important that proper hospital training programmes should be organized for all doctors, which will assist in future utilization of telemedicine. Further awareness programmes are also required for patients.
Pilot study of a virtual diabetes clinic: satisfaction and usability
Authors: Powell John , Jennings Amy , Armstrong Natalie , Sturt Jackie , Dale Jeremy
Published: April 2009

We developed a virtual clinic to assist patients who use insulin pumps in the management of their diabetes. The virtual clinic offered access to information, communication with health professionals and interaction with peers. Seventeen patients were recruited from three hospital clinics. Participants completed questionnaires before and after using the clinic for a six-month period. Usage was initially high but then declined. In the first two months 1691 page-views were recorded, but in the final two months only 355 page-views were registered. Users found participation reassuring. They rated peer interaction as the most desirable and the most useful of the features available. Using an Internet-based clinic to support the self-management of diabetes is feasible and acceptable to patients.
A Brazilian study of the sustainability of telemedicine centres
Authors: Gundim Rosângela Simões , Wen Chao Lung
Published: April 2009

We have investigated the factors which make telemedicine centres sustainable. A pilot study was carried out at two university telemedicine centres in Brazil: the Faculty of Odontology and the Faculty of Medicine at the University of São Paulo. Both centres were supported by long-term government grants. One centre delivered clinical telemedicine services in audiology and odontology, and the other centre delivered clinical services in dermatology, surgery, cardiology, medicine and second-opinions for primary care. A semi-structured interview script was drawn up and after consensus among four referees, interviews were carried out with one telemedicine coordinator from each centre. Analysis of the results showed that telemedicine sustainability is a multidimensional matter, not simply a financial one. The results of the interviews led us to refine our construct of telemedicine sustainability into seven different macro-group perspectives. These were: Institutional, Functional, Scientific, Financial, Renovation, Relational and Social. This construct allowed us to convert strategic and logical factors into a graphical representation. This graphical representation provides a snapshot of the performance of a telemedicine centre at a particular moment. The next step is to create a theoretical model of sustainability for testing in ten other centres in different regions of Brazil, including Amazonia.
An interactive distance education model based on motivation for alcohol abuse prevention
Authors: Pereira Celina A , Wen Chao Lung
Published: April 2009

We created an interactive learning environment about alcohol, with learning objects incorporating 3-D computer graphics and other telemedicine tools. These were used to explain aspects of alcohol use. The environment included interactive tele-education (the Cyber Tutor) and a collaborative learning network. We also used posters to complement the information transmitted by video. We examined group dynamics involving contests, games and theatrical performances for alcohol learning. To reinforce the information transmitted by telemedicine, 20 group sessions were held in São Paulo, one per week, each lasting one hour. The were 20 students directly involved and about 250 in the audience. The students drew up short theatre scenes, with basic information on the topic. The audience were then challenged to respond whether the subject of the scene was a myth or a truth about alcohol or alcoholism. The creation of a theatrical game required the involvement of student-actors to build the characters and support from telemedicine tools (the virtual human, posters and videos) to provide additional information. This method of presenting knowledge on alcohol can involve other students by use of the same telemedicine tools, including group discussion lists on the web. Thus it appears feasible to create an educational model based on interactive games using computer graphics and the Internet. This has the potential to increase the motivation of young people.
Analysis of ordinal categorical data with misclassification
Authors: Poon Wai‐Yin , Wang Hai‐Bin
Published: April 2009

We develop a method for the analysis of multivariate ordinal categorical data with misclassification based on the latent normal variable approach. Misclassification arises if a subject has been classified into a category that does not truly reflect its actual state, and can occur with one or more variables. A basic framework is developed to enable the analysis of two types of data. The first corresponds to a single sample that is obtained from a fallible design that may lead to misclassified data. The other corresponds to data that is obtained by double sampling. Double sampling data consists of two parts: a sample that is obtained by classifying subjects using the fallible design only and a sample that is obtained by classifying subjects using both fallible and true designs, which is assumed to have no misclassification. A unified expectation–maximization approach is developed to find the maximum likelihood estimate of model parameters. Simulation studies and examples that are based on real data are used to demonstrate the applicability and practicability of the proposed methods.
Tests of the elaborated intrusion theory of craving and desire: Features of alcohol craving during treatment for an alcohol disorder
Authors: Kavanagh David J. , May Jon , Andrade Jackie
Published: April 2009

Objectives. We tested predictions from the elaborated intrusion (EI) theory of desire, which distinguishes intrusive thoughts and elaborations, and emphasizes the importance of imagery. Secondarily, we undertook preliminary evaluations of the Alcohol Craving Experience (ACE) questionnaire, a new measure based on EI Theory.

Method. Participants (N=232) were in correspondence‐based treatment trials for alcohol abuse or dependence. The study used retrospective reports obtained early in treatment using the ACE, and daily self‐monitoring of urges, craving, mood and alcohol consumption.

Results. The ACE displayed high internal consistency and test – retest reliability and sound relationships with self‐monitored craving, and was related to Baseline alcohol dependence, but not to consumption. Imagery during craving was experienced by 81%, with 2.3 senses involved on average. More frequent imagery was associated with longer episode durations and stronger craving. Transient intrusive thoughts were reported by 87% of respondents, and were more common if they frequently attempted to stop alcohol cognitions. Associations between average daily craving and weekly consumption were seen. Depression and negative mood were associated with more frequent, stronger and longer lasting desires for alcohol.

Conclusions. Results supported the distinction of automatic and controlled processes in craving, together with the importance of craving imagery. They were also consistent with prediction of consumption from cross‐situational averages of craving, and with positive associations between craving and negative mood. However, this study's retrospective reporting and correlational design require that its results be interpreted cautiously. Research using ecological momentary measures and laboratory manipulations is needed before confident inferences about causality can be made.
The dark side of ambiguous discrimination: How state self‐esteem moderates emotional and behavioural responses to ambiguous and unambiguous discrimination
Authors: Cihangir Sezgin , Barreto Manuela , Ellemers Naomi
Published: April 2009

Two experiments examine how experimentally induced differences in state self‐esteem moderate emotional and behavioural responses to ambiguous and unambiguous discrimination. Study 1 (N =108) showed that participants who were exposed to ambiguous discrimination report more negative self‐directed emotions when they have low compared to high self‐esteem. These differences did not emerge when participants were exposed to unambiguous discrimination. Study 2 (N =118) additionally revealed that self‐esteem moderated the effect of ambiguous discrimination on self‐concern, task performance, and self‐stereotyping. Results show that ambiguous discrimination caused participants with low self‐esteem to report more negative self‐directed emotions, more self‐concern, an inferior task performance, and more self‐stereotyping, compared to participants in the high self‐esteem condition. Emotional and behavioural responses to unambiguous discrimination did not depend on the induced level of self‐esteem in these studies.
A psychometric evaluation of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale in cardiac patients: Addressing factor structure and gender invariance
Authors: Hunt‐Shanks Tiffany , Blanchard Christopher , Reid Robert , Fortier Michelle , Cappelli Mario
Published: April 2009

Objectives

The present study examined the factor structure of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and tested measurement invariance between genders in a representative sample of cardiac patients across 2 years.

Design

Confirmatory factor analysis and structural equational modelling were used to assess the factor structure, measurement, and structural invariance of the HADS.

Methods

Eight hundred and one cardiac patients completed the HADS at baseline, 6, 12, and 24 months.

Results

Confirmatory factor analysis consistently supported a three‐factor structure of the HADS, with the best fitting model comprised of negative affect, autonomic anxiety, and depression. Structural equation modelling showed that the HADS was invariant by gender among cardiac patients.

Conclusions

The HADS can be appropriately used with both male and female cardiac patients to assess three domains of psychological distress. Future investigations should consider the predictive validity and relevance of the HADS subscales with respect to diagnostic distinctions and clinical outcomes among cardiac patients and other clinical populations.
Production Characteristics and Body Composition of Florida Pompano Reared to Market Size at Two Different Densities in Low-Salinity Recirculating Aquaculture Systems
Authors: Weirich Charles R , Wills Paul S , Baptiste Richard M , Woodward Peter N , Riche Marty A
Published: April 2009

The effect of culture density on production characteristics and body composition of Florida pompano Trachinotus carolinus reared to market size using recirculating aquaculture systems (RASs) maintained at a salinity of 5‰ was evaluated in a 110-d growth trial (water temperature = 27.0–28.5°C). Juvenile Florida pompano (mean weight ± SE = 259.0 ± 3.0 g) were stocked into two tanks from each of four separate RASs at an initial nominal density of 6.5 (low density) or 13.0 kg/m3 (high density), equivalent to 200 and 400 fish/tank, respectively. After stocking, fish were fed a 4.7-mm, floating pelleted diet (50% protein, 14% lipid) twice daily at a targeted daily feed rate of 3% body weight per day. At stocking and at 3-week intervals thereafter, 10% of the fish population of each tank was sampled to determine production characteristics, including mean weight, weight gain, specific growth rate, absolute growth rate (AGR), feed conversion efficiency (FCE), biomass, and survival. At termination, fish in all tanks were harvested to determine production characteristics and samples were obtained to determine whole-body composition, energy retention, protein efficiency ratio (PER), protein productive value (PPV), hepatosomatic index, gonadosomatic index, and fillet yield. Results indicated that final weight (570.0 g), weight gain (312.7 g), AGR (2.8 g/d), FCE (25.5%), PER (0.54), and PPV (11.5%) of fish reared at high density were significantly lower than those of fish reared at low density. No differences were observed between density treatments with respect to other measured variables. Additional studies must focus on the development of finishing diets for final stages of Florida pompano production to increase FCE and to determine optimal rearing densities. In addition, research to evaluate the potential of rearing pompano in RASs at salinities lower than 5‰, perhaps through environmental or dietary enhancement of critical ions, is warranted.
Effect of Sodium Chloride, Tricaine Methanesulfonate, and Light on New Zealand Mud Snail Behavior, Survival of Snails Defecated from Rainbow Trout, and Effects of Epsom Salt on Snail Elimination Rate
Authors: Oplinger Randall W , Brown Pat , Wagner Eric J
Published: April 2009

The New Zealand mud snail (NZMS) Potamopyrgus antipodarum is an invasive species that threatens fish populations in North America. Establishment of NZMS in fish hatcheries is particularly problematic because NZMS could be inadvertently spread through fish stocking. Herein, we present the results of tests conducted to improve our understanding of (1) the risk of stocking fish from NZMS-infested hatcheries and (2) methods of NZMS control. We determined the proportion of NZMS that can survive passage through the digestive tracts of rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss and whether the purgative Epsom salt (MgSO4) could increase excretion rates. We tested NZMS phototropism and whether light preference is influenced by food availability. Finally, we determined whether NZMS would contract into their shells when exposed to sodium chloride (NaCl) and whether the anesthetic tricaine methanesulfonate (MS-222) would induce NZMS muscle relaxation. Only 4.5% of snails survived passage through the digestive tracts of rainbow trout, and Epsom salt did not increase NZMS excretion rates. This suggests that hatchery stocking could spread NZMS. New Zealand mud snails demonstrated neutral light preference and strongly preferred to occupy regions with food regardless of light presence. Finally, we determined that 59.3 ± 9.0% (mean ± SE) of NZMS exposed to an 11.0-g/L solution of NaCl retracted into their shells within 1 min of exposure and that 32.8 ± 4.1% of NZMS contracted when exposed to a 5.5-g/L NaCl solution. Retraction rates in the NaCl solution were significantly greater (P < 0.05) than those in the control, indicating that NaCl could be helpful for snail removal from portions of a hatchery that are difficult to access. Tricaine methanesulfonate concentrations of up to 400 mg/L did not induce muscle relaxation, suggesting that MS-222 cannot be used in conjunction with other compounds to increase their effectiveness.
Effect of Turbidity Duration on Culture of Walleye Larvae
Authors: Clayton Richard D , Morris Joseph E , Summerfelt Robert C
Published: April 2009

Although turbid water is an essential environmental requirement for intensive larviculture of walleyes Sander vitreus on formulated feed, research has not determined the duration of turbidity required to achieve optimal benefits for survival and growth while reducing cannibalism. We conducted a replicated, single-factor analysis to determine the effect duration of turbidity on these performance indicators at 28 d posthatch (dph). Four treatments, each with three replicate 150-L tanks, involved culture of larvae in turbid water (84–125 nephelometric turbidity units [NTU]) from 3 dph to 7, 14, 21, or 28 dph. After culture under turbid conditions for the specified period, the fish were then cultured in clear water until 28 dph (i.e., fish in the 28-dph treatment received no clear-water culture). At 28 dph, substantial differences were observed in survival and growth among treatments. Fish survival for the 7- and 14-dph treatments (1% and 2%, respectively) was significantly less than that for the 21- and 28-dph treatments (11% and 14%, respectively). There was a significant difference in total length at 28 dph among the 7-, 14-, and 21-dph treatments but not between the 21- and 28-dph treatments. Fish in the 28-dph treatment were 177% heavier than those in the 14-dph treatment. A shift in phototaxic response at about 20 dph further reduced the need for turbid-water culture to prevent clinging behavior in walleye larvae. Cannibalism (2–5%) was observed in all treatments between 7 and 13 dph but not thereafter. The study substantiates benefits of turbid-water culture for larval walleyes and demonstrates that duration of turbidity should extend through 28 dph to maximize survival and growth but that it is less important for preventing cannibalism after 13 dph and clinging behavior after 20 dph.
Unveiling rare diversity by integrating museum, literature, and field data
Authors: Harnik Paul G.
Published: April 2009

Estimates of taxonomic richness and abundance are complicated by sampling biases. The failure to sample rare taxa is most often attributed to inadequate sampling and to removal during the process of sample-size standardization. Here I present two methods for unveiling rare diversity by integrating species presence/absence data from museum collections and the literature with quantitative estimates of species richness and abundance gathered from field-based bulk samples. Combining museum, literature, and field data can provide a more comprehensive estimate of taxonomic richness and abundance without substantial increase in current sampling effort. First, in a given bulk sample, the lowest proportional abundance value observed can be used to estimate the maximum abundance of rare species known to have occurred at the locality at least once but not recorded in the current sample. Second, a model-selection approach can be used, in which a set of relative abundance distribution models are fit to the bulk-sample abundance data and the parameter estimates for the best model used to calculate the abundance distribution for all species known from the locality. The Paleogene marine fossil record of the U.S. Gulf Coastal Plain is suitable for applying these methods, because (1) the molluscan fauna is well represented in museum collections and the literature, (2) the molluscan fauna has been taxonomically standardized, and (3) many classic localities remain accessible for standardized bulk sampling. I introduce these methods by applying them to a single locality and then, using the faunas of the Gosport, Moodys Branch, and Red Bluff Formations, I demonstrate how the model-fitting approach can be used to compare taxonomic richness among multiple localities. A substantial fraction of the molluscan richness known from each locality is not captured in bulk samples and much of this unobserved richness may be attributed to the rarity of species. The multiple-locality comparison suggests that the greatest Paleogene decline in standing richness occurred in the middle Eocene and that the recovery of richness following the Eocene-Oligocene extinction was quite rapid despite substantial loss of taxa. These analyses underscore the magnitude of veiled diversity in marine fossil assemblages and the potential of existing sources of data to unveil rare taxa, allowing them to be incorporated into quantitative diversity studies.