bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Utility of a whole blood single platelet counting assay to monitor the effects of tirofiban in patients with acute coronary syndromes scheduled for coronary intervention
Authors: Siotia Anjan , Buckland Robert , Judge Heather , Sastry Padmini , Storey Robert
Published: May 2006

This study aimed to establish the utility of a whole-blood singleplatelet counting (WBSPC) assay, a measure of microaggregation, in monitoring the effects of tirofiban, comparing this with optical aggregometry (OA) and the Ultegra TRAP cartridge system (UTC), measures of macroaggregation. Fifty-nine patients with acute coronary syndrome scheduled for coronary angiography +/angioplasty were studied. WBSPC assay (ADP 0.3-100 µM, Sysmex KX21 analyzer), OA (ADP 20 µM) and UTC were performed: before starting tirofiban; 30 min, 4 and 24 h after starting tirofiban; and 1 and 2h after stopping tirofiban. Thirty minutes after starting tirofiban, there was substantial inhibition of platelet aggregation (40 ± 30%; WBSPC, 2 minutes after addition of ADP 30 µM) and this remained stable at 4 and 24 h. OA (86 ± 17%; inhibition of maximal aggregation,ADP 20 µM) and UTC (93 ± 7%) showed marked inhibition with less inter-individual variation. There was no significant correlation between OA and UTC results (R2 = 0.006), but fair correlation between OA and WBSPC results (R2 = 0.37). Greater inhibition of macroaggregation (OA and UTC) was seen compared to microaggregation (WBSPC) such that WBSPC was more discriminating in the therapeutic range when macroaggregation was often completely inhibited. A WBSPC assay of platelet microaggregation shows promise for monitoring GPIIb/IIIa antagonists.
A novel fibrinogen Bβ chain frameshift mutation in a patient with severe congenital hypofibrinogenaemia
Authors: Zhai Zhimin , Zhou Rongfu , Wang Xuefeng , Wang Hongli , Ding Kaiyang , Sun Zimin , Xu Xiucai , Wu Jingsheng , Ni Heyu
Published: May 2006

Congenital afibrinogenemia and severe hypofibrinogenemia are severe bleeding disorders characterized by either undetectable or very low levels of fibrinogen in patients’ plasma and platelets. A majority of the reported cases are caused by mutations in the fibrinogen Aα chain. In this study, we identified a genetic defect in the fibrinogen Bβ-chain (FGB) underlying severe hypofibrinogenemia. The propositus frequently displayed bleeding episodes with a prolonged blood-clotting time (thrombin time > 180 s,activated partial thromboplastin time > 300 s, prothrombin time > 120 s) and had a very low level of plasma fibrinogen (1.7–1.8 mg/dl). His parents had a consanguineous marriage, and their functional and immunological fibrinogen was approximately half of the normal level.The platelet fibrinogen level of the propositus could not be detected by western blotting, and his platelet aggregation was severely impaired. DNA screening of the whole fibrinogen gene revealed a homozygous GGGG→GGG mutation at nucleotide 7969–7972 in his FGB gene. The propositus’ parents are both heterozygous for this mutation. This mutation contributes to Gly419→Val, and the 419–434 codons are frame shifted, and a stop codon is formed at codon 435.The predicted truncated Bβ-chain is 27 amino acids shorter than the normal Bβ-chain and a central β-strand in the globular βC domain is absent,which may lead to destabilization of the entire β-domain. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of such a mutation which is associated with severe hypofibrinogenemia.
Increased cardiovascular risk markers in obesity are associated with body adiposity: Role of leptin
Authors: Gómez-Ambrosi Javier , Salvador Javier , Silva Camilo , Pastor Carlos , Rotellar Fernando , Gil María , Cienfuegos Javier , Frühbeck Gema
Published: May 2006

Epidemiological studies have shown that obesity is associated with increased blood concentrations of proinflammatory factors and markers of endothelial dysfunction such as fibrinogen, C-reactive protein (CRP), and von Willebrand factor (vWF). We analyzed the association of these markers with percentage of body fat (BF), and the influence of leptin in a cross-sectional study of 1,089 subjects (366 men) aged 44 (34–53) [median (interquartile range)] years, who were classified as obese or non-obese according to BF estimated by whole-body air displacement plethysmography. Obesity was defined as BF ≥ 25% in men and ≥ 35% in women. Compared with non-obese subjects (mean ± SD), obese patients had higher concentrations of fibrinogen (312± 78 vs. 342 ± 81 mg/dl, P < 0.001), CRP (0.41 ± 0.75 vs. 0.75± 1. 04 mg/l, P = 0.014), vWF (107 ± 29 vs. 123 ± 55%, P < 0.001), and leptin (10.4 ± 6.5 vs. 37.5 ± 26. 1 ng/ml, P < 0.0001). A positive correlation was observed between BF and fibrinogen (r = 0.266; P < 0.0001), logCRP (r = 0.409; P < 0.0001), and vWF (r = 206; P < 0.0001). Leptin was correlated with fibrinogen (r = 0.219, P < 0.0001), logCRP (r = 0.339, P < 0.0001), and vWF (r = 0.124, P = 0.002), but the statistical significance was lost after including BF in adjusted-correlation and multivariate analysis, suggesting that they are not regulated by leptin per se. In conclusion, the obesity-associated increase in the circulating concentrations of fibrinogen, CRP, and vWF is highly associated to BF and apparently not determined by leptin.
Influence of specific alternative diagnoses on the probability of pulmonary embolism
Authors: Testuz Ariane , Le Gal Grégoire , Righini Marc , Bounameaux Henri , Perrier Arnaud
Published: May 2006

The presence and likelihood of an alternative diagnosis to pulmonary embolism is an important variable of the Wells’ prediction rule for establishing clinical probability. We assessed whether evoking specific alternative diagnoses would reduce the probability of pulmonary embolism enough to forego further testing. We retrospectively studieda cohort of 965 consecutive patients admitted for suspicion of pulmonary embolism at three medical centers in Europe in whom the presence of an alternative diagnosis at least as likely as pulmonary embolism was recorded before diagnostic testing. We divided the patients into 15 categories of alternative diagnoses evoked. We then assessed the prevalence of pulmonary embolism in each diagnostic category and compared it to the prevalence of pulmonary embolism ina reference group (patients with no alternative diagnosis or a diagnosis less likely than pulmonary embolism). The prevalence of pulmonary embolism in the reference group was 48%. The presence of an alternative diagnosis as or more likely strongly reduced the probability of pulmonary embolism (OR 0.15, 95% CI: 0.1–0.2, p<0.01). In almost every diagnostic category, the prevalence of pulmonary embolism was much lower than in the reference group whith an odds ratio below or near 0. 2. Bronchopneumonia (OR 0.4, 95% CI 0.2 to 0.7) and cancer (OR 0.6, 95% CI 0. 3 to 1.5) reduced the likelihood of pulmonary embolism toa lower extent. Evoking an alternative diagnosis at least as likely as pulmonary embolism reduces the probability of the disease, but this effect is never large enough to allow ruling it out without further testing, especially when bronchopneumonia or cancer are the alternative diagnoses considered.
Topical Sonic Hedgehog Gene Therapy Accelerates Wound Healing in Diabetes by Enhancing Endothelial Progenitor Cell–Mediated Microvascular Remodeling
Authors: Asai Jun , Takenaka Hideya , Kusano Kengo F. , Ii Masaaki , Luedemann Corinne , Curry Cynthia , Eaton Elizabeth , Iwakura Atsushi , Tsutsumi Yoshiaki , Hamada Hiromichi , Kishimoto Saburo , Thorne Tina , Kishore Raj , Losordo Douglas W.
Published: May 2006

Background—

Sonic hedgehog (Shh) is a prototypical morphogen known to regulate epithelial-mesenchymal interaction during embryonic development. Recent observations indicate that exogenous administration of Shh can induce angiogenesis and may accelerate repair of ischemic myocardium and skeletal muscle. Because angiogenesis plays a pivotal role in wound repair, we hypothesized that activation of the hedgehog pathway may promote a favorable effect on microvascular remodeling during cutaneous wound healing and thereby accelerate wound closure. Because diabetes is associated with impaired wound healing, we tested this hypothesis in a diabetic model of cutaneous wound repair.

Methods and Results—

In
Ptc1-LacZ
mice, cutaneous injury resulted in LacZ expression, indicating that expression of the Shh receptor Patched was induced and therefore that the Shh signaling pathway was intact postnatally and upregulated in the process of wound repair. In diabetic mice, topical gene therapy with the use of naked DNA encoding for Shh resulted in significant local gene expression and acceleration of wound recovery. The acceleration in wound healing was notable for increased wound vascularity. In bone marrow transplantation models, the enhanced vascularity of the wound was shown to be mediated, at least in part, by enhanced recruitment of bone marrow–derived endothelial progenitor cells. In vitro, Shh promoted production of angiogenic cytokines from fibroblasts as well as proliferation of dermal fibroblasts. Furthermore, Shh directly promoted endothelial progenitor cell proliferation, migration, adhesion, and tube formation.

Conclusions—

These findings suggest that a simple strategy of topically applied Shh gene therapy may have significant therapeutic potential for enhanced wound healing in patients with impaired microcirculation such as occurs in diabetes. (Circulation. 2006;113:2413-2424.)
Vickers Microindentation and Statistical Analysis of Microhardness of Detonation Sprayed Nanocomposite Al2O3-TiO2 Coatings
Authors: Wang Jun , Zhai Chang-Sheng , Yang Yi , Sun Bao-De
Published: May 2006

The mechanical behaviors of detonation sprayed Al2 O3/3 wt%TiO2 nanocomposite and conventional microcomposite coatings are evaluated by Vickers microhardness. The distribution of microhardness values of the coatings are analyzed by Weibull statistics. The pores of the nanocomposite coating (NCC) generally appear to be of equal size and show a very homogeneous distribution, while the conventional microcomposite coating (MCC) appears as an inhomogeneous pore distribution. The results also indicate that the NCC has a better chimerism between splat interfaces than the MCC and a more homogeneous melting condition. The Al2 O3 phase in the NCC is evidently refined. The indentation analysis illustrates anisotropic toughness of the as-sprayed coatings, the cracks are parallel to the substrate. The NCC has a higher fracture toughness than the MCC. The NCC and MCC demonstrate a bimodal distribution. The mean microhardness value (1139.5HV100) of the NCC is higher by 15.3% than that (988.3HV100) of MCC. Less scatters are seen in the characteristic microhardness value in both low values and extremely low value of NCC than those of MCC. The excellent mechanical properties are due to the reinforcing effect of TiO2 nanoparticles on the Al2 O3 matrix particles of NCC.
Effective Thermal Conductivity of Continuous Matrix-spherical Dispersed Phase Composite with Single-point Interfacial Thermal Contact: Continuum Regime Gas Conduction in the Gap
Authors: Thomas J. R. , Hasselman D. P. H.
Published: May 2006

Analytical solutions are presented for the effective thermal conductivity of a continuous matrix composite with fully debonded spherical inclusions in single-point contact with the matrix. This situation represents the lower bound on the effect of partial debonding between the dispersed and the matrix phase on composite thermal conductivity. The heat transfer across the gap in the debonded regions is assumed to occur by gaseous conduction. Solutions for the temperature gradient parallel and perpendicular to the point of contact are considered. Numerical results for a sodaborosilicate glass matrix with spherical nickel inclusions and a range of values for the thermal conductivity kgap of the gas phase in the gap are presented. The effective composite thermal conductivity values for gradients imposed parallel and perpendicular to the point of contact were found to differ significantly depending on the magnitudes of the contact conductance and the thermal conductivity of the gas. When kgap approaches zero, the solution approaches that for a matrix with spherical pores presented by Maxwell. When kgap approaches infinity, the composite thermal conductivity approaches Maxwell’s value for a composite with perfect interfacial thermal contact.
Man Versus Machine: Is There an Optimal Method for QT Measurements in Thorough QT Studies?
Authors: Darpo Borje , Agin Marilyn , Kazierad David J. , Layton Gary , Muirhead Gary , Gray Peter , Jorkasky Diane K.
Published: May 2006

Electrocardiographic (ECG) recordings from 3 placebo‐controlled thorough QT healthy volunteer studies were used to compare QT intervals obtained by manual measurement with those generated by ECG machines. The effect of the positive control was compared to placebo at each time point for data obtained from both sources. Both manual and automated techniques consistently demonstrated statistically significant prolongation of QTcF with the positive controls. The proportion of outlier values was small for both methods. The pairwise comparison between manual and automated uncorrected QT intervals demonstrated clear differences, with intervals derived from one machine on average 16 to 19 milliseconds shorter and from the other 7 milliseconds longer than the manually measured QT intervals, but these differences disappeared when analyzing QT change from baseline. Both manual and automated, commercially available QT algorithms demonstrated small statistically significant effects on the QTc interval induced by positive controls.
Pharmacokinetics and Safety of Montelukast in Children Aged 3 to 6 Months
Authors: Knorr Barbara , Maganti Lata , Ramakrishnan Rohini , Tozzi Carol A. , Migoya Elizabeth , Kearns Gregory
Published: May 2006

The single‐dose population estimate of the area under the concentration‐time curve (AUCpop) from time zero to infinity (AUC0‐∞), maximum plasma concentration (Cmax), and time to Cmax (tmax) of montelukast 4‐mg oral granules were investigated in infants aged 3 to 6 months. Montelukast concentrations were quantitated after a single 4‐mg dose of montelukast oral granules. Pharmacokinetic parameters were determined using a population‐based approach with a nonlinear mixed‐effect, 1‐compartment model with first‐order absorption and elimination. Ninety‐five percent confidence intervals for the AUCpop ratio (3 to 6 months/6 to 24 months) were determined. Safety and tolerability were assessed. Montelukast 4‐mg oral granules in children 3 to 6 months of age yielded systemic exposure (AUCpop = 3644.3 ± 481.5 ng.h/mL) similar to that observed in children aged 6 to 24 months (3226.6 ± 250.0 ng.h/mL). Systemic exposure after a 4‐mg dose of montelukast as oral granules is similar in children aged 3 to 6 months and 6 to 24 months.
Never far from home: A cognitive-affective model of the impact of early-life family relationships on physiological stress responses in adulthood
Authors: Luecken Linda J. , Appelhans Bradley M. , Kraft Amy , Brown Ana
Published: May 2006

An emerging line of research suggests that characteristics of the early family environment such as parent–child relationships, parental affection, and family conflict may contribute to vulnerability to stress-related illnesses in adulthood. An important long-term mechanism linking early family experiences to risk of illness later in life may lie in the ability to regulate physiological responses to environmental challenges. The current study provides evidence from our research program supportive of a cognitive-affective model in which it is proposed that family-of-origin relationships influence the development of emotional and cognitive responses to environmental challenges that influence physiological reactivity patterns, and ultimately impact vulnerability to stress-related illnesses later in life.
Physiological evidence for repressive coping among avoidantly attached adults
Authors: Diamond Lisa M. , Hicks Angela M. , Otter-Henderson Kimberly
Published: May 2006

Research suggests that the quality of childhood attachments to caregivers influences the development of capacities and strategies for emotion regulation. Avoidantly attached individuals are characterized by emotion-regulation strategies involving the suppression of negative thoughts and feelings. Psychophysiological research on repressive coping suggests that these strategies might be associated with patterns of heightened and escalating sympathetic nervous system reactivity in the absence of correspondingly heightened self-reported affect. The present study tested this hypothesis by subjecting 148 adults to psychological stressors and discussions of attachment-related issues while monitoring their skin conductance level (SCL). Attachment avoidance – but not anxiety – was associated with heightened SCL reactivity to all tasks, especially among women, as well as escalation in reactivity. Additionally, on one stressor avoidance was associated with greater disassociation between subjective and physiological responses. These results have implications for understanding the influence of attachment style on cognitive and physiological aspects of emotion regulation.
Integrating the measurement of salivary α-amylase into studies of child health, development, and social relationships
Authors: Granger Douglas A. , Kivlighan Katie T. , Blair Clancy , El-Sheikh Mona , Mize Jacquelyn , Lisonbee Jared A. , Buckhalt Joseph A. , Stroud Laura R. , Handwerger Kathryn , Schwartz Eve B.
Published: May 2006

To advance our understanding of how biological and behavioral processes interact to determine risk or resilience, theorists suggest that social developmental models will need to include multiple measurements of stress-related biological processes. Identified in the early 1990s as a surrogate marker of the sympathetic nervous system component of the stress response, salivary-amylase has not been employed to test biosocial models of stress vulnerability in the context of child development until now. In this report, we describe a standard assay that behavioral scientists can use to improve the next generation of studies and specific recommendations about sample collection, preparation, and storage are presented. More importantly, four studies are presented with mother–infant dyads (N= 86), preschoolers (N= 54), children (N = 54), and adolescents (N = 29) to illustrate individual differences in stress-related change in α-amylase levels, that patterns of α-amylase stress reactivity distinctly differ from those measured by salivary cortisol, and associations between individual differences in α-amylase and social relationships, health, negative affectivity, cognitive/academic/behavior problems, and cardiovascular reactivity. We conclude that the integration of measurements of the adrenergic component of the locus ceruleus/autonomic (sympathetic) nervous system, as indexed by salivary α-amylase, into the study of biosocial relationships may extend our understanding of child health and development to new limits.
Does physical pain augment anxious attachment?
Authors: Macdonald Geoff , Kingsbury Rachell
Published: May 2006

This study tested the hypothesis derived from social pain theory (MacDonald & Leary, 2005) that pain affect serves as a signal of perceived social exclusion. Participants ranging in experience of persistent physical pain completed measures of pain affect, anxious and avoidant attachment, anxiety, and depression. Higher levels of pain affect were found to relate to higher levels of anxious, but not avoidant, attachment. Further, anxious attachment partially mediated the relation between pain affect and emotional distress. These data support the conclusion that one reason individuals with persistent pain experience anxiety and depression is because of heightened concerns over rejection. The data also support the conclusion that anxious attachment is more strongly related to the fight–flight–freezing system than avoidant attachment.
Positive behaviors during marital conflict: Influences on stress hormones
Authors: Robles Theodore F. , Shaffer Victoria A. , Malarkey William B. , Kiecolt-Glaser Janice K.
Published: May 2006

To examine the independent and interactive contribution of positive and negative behaviors during marital conflict to changes in adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and cortisol, behavioral and endocrine data were collected from 90 newlywed couples during a 30-minute conflict task. Positive and negative behaviors were coded by the Marital Interaction Coding System. High levels of husbands' positive behavior and high couple negativity were related to steeper ACTH and cortisol declines in wives. Low levels of wives' positive behavior and high couple negativity were related to flatter declines in wives' cortisol. Supportiveness during highly negative interactions contributed to steeper ACTH and cortisol declines in wives, suggesting that constructively engaging in discussions promotes adaptive physiological responses to interpersonal conflict.
Effects of Piezo Actuated Damping on Parametrically Excited Laminated Composite Plates
Authors: Bhattacharya P. , Rose M. , Homann S.
Published: May 2006

The present day aerospace vehicles are becoming lighter and more flexible and are subjected to different kinds of longitudinal forces, namely thermal and pulsating inertial loads. While designing such structures, parametric instability plays a very important role. In the present work, a study is undertaken to understand the parametric instability behavior of laminated composite plates integrated with active piezoelectric layers used for feedback damping. An eight-noded isoparametric finite element model has been developed with structural and electrical degrees as degree of freedom and coded in FORTRAN to obtain the stiffness, mass, and the feedback damping matrices. The resulting Mathieu—Hill equation is then solved using the strained parameter method. Results for different geometry and fiber orientation are obtained and presented.
Characterization of the Failure and Effect of Carbon Fiber-reinforced Composites on the Cracking in Cement Constructions Part II: Shearing Behavior of Material and Adhesive
Authors: El Arabi S. M. , Weidong Yu
Published: May 2006

In this study the laminated composite materials are designed such that the individual plies add to the whole material strength. The plies may be oriented at different angles selected in accordance with the final end use. When dealing with the laminated composites, the delamination and the interlaminar fracture affects the mechanical performance of the whole material. When such materials are adhered to the same or different materials by an adhesive bonding, the loads are transferred in-between, by shear. In this work, fiber-carbon fabrics and the carbon reinforced epoxy laminates are made to join two cement—s and substrates in different angles of alignment to the loading direction and in different laminate designations, both at three different gage lengths. A newly designed clamping system is used to carry out the shearing test. The shearing behavior is discussed and the fracture photographs are presented in this study. The fabrics laid at −45° are damaged without any adhesive fracture, and those laid at 90 and +45° show the fabric fracture followed by the joint fracture on the one hand, and on the other hand, either the fabric damage or the joint fracture occurs depending on the gage length used every time. The substrate failure mode is noticed in the angle-ply laminated composite materials in both of their designations and at all the gage lengths used. However, the [0°, +45°, −45°] designated laminate shows the maximum shear modulus with the largest gage length.
The Effects of Shear on the Deflection of Simply Supported Composite Beam Loaded Linearly
Authors: Esendemir Ümran , Usal Mustafa Reşit , Usal Melek
Published: May 2006

In this study two deflection functions due to both the flexure and the shear of an orthotropic simply supported beam loaded linearly are obtained by means of the anisotropic elasticity theory. In order to see the effect of shear, the deflections are calculated for different fiber directions. Two different composite materials are used during the deflection analysis. The error level and the shear deflection for the thermoplastic composite beam are the smallest for 45 orientation angle, and that for the polymer-matrix composite beam are the smallest for 90 orientation angle. When the cross-sectional height to the beam-length ratio increases, the shear effect also increases.
Modeling Young's Modulus of Polymer-layered Silicate Nanocomposites Using a Modified Halpin—Tsai Micromechanical Model
Authors: Yung K. C. , Wang J. , Yue T. M.
Published: May 2006

In this study nanocomposites consisting of an epoxy matrix filled with silicate clay particles are investigated. Recent and ongoing research has shown that dramatic enhancements can be achieved in stiffness and thermal properties in these nanocomposites with small amounts of particle concentration. The resulting properties of nanocomposites are intimately related to the microstructure achieved in processing these materials. However, the ideal situation of full exfoliation, dispersion, and orientation is not usually achieved. A more common case is the partial exfoliation and intercalation. The latter is a process whereby the polymer penetrates the interlayer spaces of clay particles, causing an increase in the layer spacing (d-spacing). The region consisting of a matrix with exfoliated clay nanolayers or platelets is analyzed by assuming a near uniform-dispersion and a random orientation. The properties of intercalated clusters of clay platelets are calculated by a rule of mixtures based on a parallel platelet system. The modified composite theory of Halpin—Tsai is applied to calculate the modulus of the nanocomposite as a function of the clay concentration for various parametric variations, including the exfoliation ratio, the particle/matrix stiffness ratio Ef/Em, the particle volume fraction f, and the particle aspect ratio L/t. The modified composite theory satisfactorily captures the stiffness behavior of the polymer/clay composites.
Experimental and Analytical Investigation of Jute Polyester Composite for Long Continuous Fiber Reinforcement
Authors: Shaikh A. A. , Channiwala S. A.
Published: May 2006

Composite materials have become a necessity in recent times due to their attractive properties. The use of natural fibers is also having enough potential in the formation of feasible composites. The use of such composites in structural application as a low cost material has created a new horizon for investigation. Jute is a stiff fiber and its application in the packaging industry as a load-bearing fiber is quite common. The structure of jute is porous and it has a tendency to absorb moisture from the atmosphere, which results in its deterioration at the interface. The theoretical model for prediction of strength for such composites having porous reinforcement is developed in the present work, by considering a hexagonal fiber packing. The area occupied by voids is considered as a region of ineffectiveness for load transfer to the fibers through the matrix. The region of interphase between fiber and matrix is introduced to represent impurities in the composite. The interphase volume and property are evaluated using a modified rule of mixture (ROM). The results are also compared with FEM results obtained using licensed package ANSYS and IDEAS, with interphase properties obtained from a theoretical model. The experiments are carried out for jute— polyester composite with variation in volume fraction from 4 to 36%. The specimens are prepared at a constant pressure of 3.43 104 N/m2 by the compression molding method and special care is taken to maintain a long continuous aligned reinforcement. The strengths of the specimen are measured as per ASTM D 3039-76. The results obtained by experiments are observed to be between 0.307 and 2.41% with the theoretical model and simulated FEM results, while it is deviating 25.87% with ROM.
The Effect of the Presence of Water on the Durability of Bond between CFRP and Concrete
Authors: Wan Baolin , Petrou Michael F. , Harries Kent A.
Published: May 2006

This research assesses the effects of the presence of water during the carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) application and after the CFRP cure on the bond between the CFRP and the concrete. Modified double cantilever beam (MDCB) specimens are used to determine the interfacial energy release rate, G, of the CFRP—concrete bond. A CFRP fabric is applied to the specimens with three different initial levels of water/moisture presence. Other specimens, with a CFRP fabric applied in dry conditions and allowed to cure, are conditioned in a saturated environment for different lengths of time. The test results indicate that the presence of water during the CFRP application decreases the bond quality significantly and most of the resulting failures are adhesive failures along the primer/concrete interface. The use of a specially formulated primer results in a slightly higher bond capacity but the same undesirable failure. High quality CFRP applications, conditioned in a saturated environment for a relatively short period of time, from 3 to 8 weeks, demonstrate that exposure to water degrades the bond between CFRP and concrete after the epoxy has cured.
Elastoplastic Stress Analysis in a Woven Ni—Cr Reinforced Thermoplastic-matrix Composite Laminated Plates under Transverse Loading
Authors: Aykul Halil , Kaya Sami , Şenel Mehmet
Published: May 2006

In this study, an elastoplastic stress analysis is carried out on the symmetric and antisymmetric cross-ply and angle-ply thermoplastic-laminated plates for transverse loading. A low density polyethylene (LDPE) thermoplastic-matrix and woven Ni—Cr fibers are used to produce composite plates by using molds. A first-order shear deformation theory and a nine-node Lagrangian finite element are used. Mathematical formulation is given for the elastoplastic stress analysis of a laminated plate for small deformations. The yield points and stresses are obtained for symmetric and antisymmetric clamp supported laminated plates with a square hole. The residual stresses in the thermoplastic plates are given in the tables. The expansion of plastic zones is illustrated for 200, 350, and 500 loading steps. The yield points and expansion of plastic zones are compared for different plates. The mechanical properties of a layer are obtained experimentally. The intensity of the residual stress components is maximum near the square hole and clamped supports.
Report: Future industrial solid waste management in Pars Special Economic Energy Zone (PSEEZ), Iran
Authors: Mokhtarani Babak , Moghaddam Mohammad Reza Alavi , Mokhtarani Nader , Khaledi Hossein Jomeh
Published: May 2006

The Pars Special Economic Energy Zone (PSEEZ) is located in the south of Iran, on the northern coastline of the Persian Gulf. This area was established in 1998 for the utilization of south Pars field oil and gas resources. This field is one of the largest gas resources in the world and contains about 6% of the total fossil fuels known. Petrochemical industries, gas refineries and downstream industries are being constructed in this area. At present there are three gas refineries in operation and five more gas refineries are under construction. In this study, different types of solid waste including municipal solid waste (MSW) and industrial wastes were investigated separately. The aim of the study was to focus on the management of the industrial wastes in order to minimize the environmental impact. In the first stage, the types and amounts of industrial waste in PSEEZ were evaluated by an inventory. The main types of industrial waste are oil products (fuel oil, light oil, lubricating oil), spent catalysts, adsorbents, resins, coke, wax and packaging materials. The waste management of PSEEZ is quite complex because of the different types of industry and the diversity of industrial residues. In some cases recycling/reuse of waste is the best option, but treatment and disposal are also necessary tools. Recently a design has been prepared for a disposal site in PSEEZ for the industrial waste that cannot be reused or recycled. The total surface area of this disposal site where the industrial waste should be tipped for the next 20 years was estimated to be about 42 000 m2.
Experimental study on cement clinker co-generation in pulverized coal combustion boilers of power plants
Authors: Wang Wenlong , Wang Wenlong , Luo Zhongyang , Shi Zhenglun , Cen Kefa
Published: May 2006

The idea to co-generate cement clinker in pulverized coal combustion (PCC) boilers of power plants is introduced and discussed. An experimental study and theoretical analysis showed this idea to be feasible and promising. By adding quick lime as well as other mineralizers to the coal and grinding the mixture before combustion, sulfoaluminate cement clinker with a high content of silicate (SCCHS) could be generated. The main mineral phases in SCCHS are 2CaO · SiO2 (dicalcium-silicate), 3CaO · 3Al2O3 ·CaSO4 (calcium-sulfoaluminate) and 2CaO · Al2 O3 ·SiO2(gehlenite). Performance tests showed that the SCCHS met the requirements for utilization in common construction. Based on this idea, zero solid waste generation from PCC would be realized. Furthermore, thermal power production and cement production could be combined, and this would have a significant effect on both environmental protection and natural resource saving.
Utilization of gold tailings as an additive in Portland cement
Authors: Çelik Özlem , Elbeyli Iffet Yakar , Piskin Sabriye
Published: May 2006

Mine tailings are formed as an industrial waste during coal and ore mining and processing. In the investigated process, following the extraction of gold from the ore, the remaining tailings are subjected to a two-stage chemical treatment in order to destroy the free cyanide and to stabilize and coagulate heavy metals prior to discharge into the tailings pond. The aim of this study was the investigation of the feasibility of utilization of the tailings as an additive material in Portland cement production. For this purpose, the effects of the tailings on the compressive strength properties of the ordinary Portland cement were investigated. Chemical and physical properties, mineralogical composition, particle size distribution and microstructure of the tailings were determined by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffractometry (XRD), particle size analyzer (Mastersizer) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). Following the characterization of the tailings, cement mortars were prepared by intergrinding Portland cement with dried tailings. Composition of the cement clinkers were adjusted to contain 5, 15, 25% (wt/wt) dried tailings and also silica fume and fly ash samples (C and F type) were added to clinker in different ratios. The mortars produced with different amounts of tailings, silica fume, fly ashes and also mixtures of them were tested for compressive strength values after 2, 7, 28 and 56 days according to the European Standard (EN 196-1). The results indicated that gold tailings up to 25% in clinker could be beneficially used as an additive in Portland cement production. It is suggested that the gold tailings used in the cement are blended with silica fume and C-type fly ash to obtain higher compressive strength values.
Studies on recycled aggregates-based concrete
Authors: Rakshvir Major , Barai Sudhirkumar V.
Published: May 2006

Reduced extraction of raw materials, reduced transportation cost, improved profits, reduced environmental impact and fast-depleting reserves of conventional natural aggregates has necessitated the use of recycling, in order to be able to conserve conventional natural aggregate. In this study various physical and mechanical properties of recycled concrete aggregates were examined. Recycled concrete aggregates are different from natural aggregates and concrete made from them has specific properties. The percentages of recycled concrete aggregates were varied and it was observed that properties such as compressive strength showed a decrease of up to 10% as the percentage of recycled concrete aggregates increased. Water absorption of recycled aggregates was found to be greater than natural aggregates, and this needs to be compensated during mix design.
An investigation of waste foundry sand in asphalt concrete mixtures
Authors: Bakis Recep , Koyuncu Hakan , Demirbas Ayhan
Published: May 2006

A laboratory study regarding the reuse of waste foundry sand in asphalt concrete production by replacing a certain portion of aggregate with WFS was undertaken. The results showed that replacement of 10% aggregates with waste foundry sand was found to be the most suitable for asphalt concrete mixtures. Furthermore, the chemical and physical properties of waste foundry sand were analysed in the laboratory to determine the potential effect on the environment. The results indicated that the investigated waste foundry sand did not significantly affect the environment around the deposition area.
Leachability testing of sludge from street gullies
Authors: Svensson Britt-Marie , Mårtensson Lennart , Åkeson Tobias , Persson Anders
Published: May 2006

Sludge from gullies, on two types of streets with different traffic intensity, was investigated using two recommended EU methods for leachability testing of waste: a two-stage batch test and an up-flow percolation test. The main purpose of this investigation was to gain more knowledge about these leaching test methods to be able to make future decisions on the general applicability of the proposed tests. A number of parameters were determined in the sludge as well as in the eluates obtained from the two leaching tests. These include pH, conductivity, dissolved organic carbon and inorganic ions as chloride ions. A number of metals as Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni and Zn, were determined by inductive coupled plasma-mass spectrometry and organic compounds were screened by high performance liquid chromatography-diode array UV detection and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. It was found that the concentrations of metals and organic compounds in the sludge were several orders of magnitudes higher than the actual eluate concentrations. For all metals the concentrations were well below the proposed limit values for non-hazardous waste included in the Council decision document 2003/33/EC. Generally, concentrations obtained in batch test were equal or higher than from percolation tests. The repeatability of the percolation and the batch test were in average 28 and 17%, respectively.
Failing to See the Irony in ‘Mind-Reading’
Authors: Costall Alan , Leudar Ivan , Reddy Vasudevi
Published: May 2006

We are puzzled by Szilvia Papp's response to the recent Special Issue of Theory & Psychology devoted to critiques of and alternatives to Theory of Mind. Although Papp is a linguist with a special interest not only in Theory of Mind but also in ‘Relevance Theory’, we can find no reference in her response to the critical issues raised in the Special Issue, nor any defence of the dualist metaphysics behind Theory of Mind. Instead, she presents us with a further demonstration that if one starts from dualistic premises, then one does indeed end up with something along the lines of Theory of Mind with its resort to ‘mind-reading’.
Transforming Past Agency and Action in the Present
Authors: Reavey Paula , Brown Steven D.
Published: May 2006

A weakness of contemporary ‘forensic’ models of memory is their reliance on the belief that ‘a chain of successive memories’ creates a sense of continuity and stability in the self. This literal presentation of memory forecloses an attending to its practical use (in specific contexts and moments in time) and the subsequent ambivalences individuals experience when trying to make sense of past episodes of child sexual abuse. Drawing variously on Haaken, Campbell and Bergson, we use these approaches to call for a reworking of memory by inviting an engagement with its relational, practical and collective qualities. This paper examines these reworkings of the concept of memory and explores issues of social space, the localized contexts of remembering and the manner through which memories transform understandings of agency and action, with specific attention to how the past and present intertwine in regard to managing adult survivor identities.
Genetic Epistemology and Piaget's Philosophy of Science
Authors: Tsou Jonathan Y.
Published: May 2006

This paper concerns Jean Piaget's (1896–1980) philosophy of science and, in particular, the picture of scientific development suggested by his theory of genetic epistemology. The aims of the paper are threefold: (1) to examine genetic epistemology as a theory concerning the growth of knowledge both in the individual and in science; (2) to explicate Piaget's view of ‘scientific progress’, which is grounded in his theory of equilibration; and (3) to juxtapose Piaget's notion of progress with Thomas Kuhn's (1922–1996). Issues of scientific continuity, scientific realism and scientific rationality are discussed. It is argued that Piaget's view highlights weaknesses in Kuhn's ‘discontinuous’ picture of scientific change.
Risk Communication in Genetic Counselling
Authors: O'Doherty Kieran
Published: May 2006

This paper argues for and demonstrates a language-based treatment of probability. The study was motivated by an observation that there is ambiguity in the use of probabilistic terminology in risk communication in genetic counselling. In particular, it was found that terms such as ‘risk’ and ‘probability’ were founded upon different ontological constructs. Most philosophical approaches to probability do not adequately explain this phenomenon. In spite of much variation in theoretical views on probability, one common element is that probability is viewed as an ‘object’ about which knowledge can be obtained. In contrast, a discursive approach to probability offers a way to understand risk communication (and probabilistic discourse more generally) that involves a focus on the function of probability statements in language. In this paper Toulmin's view of probability is used as a foundation for a discursive analysis of probability. Such an analysis is illustrated in transcripts from genetic counselling sessions.
Exploring the Sphere of Between
Authors: Chiari Gabriele , Nuzzo Maria Laura
Published: May 2006

A psychological understanding of interpersonal processes in terms of complementarity is not new. It is enough to mention Buber (the title of our paper refers to an expression of his), as well as Bateson and his definitions of double description, binocular vision and complementary and symmetric relations. We would like to clarify the nature of complementarity, and to point out the presence of this framework in some philosophical and scientific discourses about the person. Moreover, we think that the adoption of a framework of complementarity becomes a metaphysical necessity within what we have called ‘hermeneutic constructivism’, and that other constructivisms fail to acknowledge it, thereby losing much of their metatheoretical, revolutionary potential. We will document the possibility of adopting a framework of complementarity with respect to different pairs of poles, which specify as many phenomenal domains: (1) the relation between any entity and its environment; (2) the relation between modes of description; (3) the relation between the person and the world; and (4) the relation between people. In the final part of the paper we outline some implications of a consideration of complementarity for the psychotherapy process.
Münsterberg in 1898, Not Allport in 1937, Introduced the Terms ‘Idiographic’ and ‘Nomothetic’ to American Psychology
Authors: Hurlburt Russell T. , Knapp Terry J.
Published: May 2006

Psychologists use the term ‘idiographic’ to refer to the characteristics of unique individuals and ‘nomothetic’ to refer to universal characteristics. It is widely accepted that Gordon Allport borrowed those terms from the German philosopher Wilhelm Windelband and introduced the idiographic/nomothetic distinction to American psychology. However, in this paper we argue that the terms were made a part of American psychological discourse at least as early as 1898 by Hugo Münsterberg, two generations before Allport, and were incorporated by William Stern, who had a strong influence on Allport. Recognizing Münsterberg's and Stern's contribution assists in a more secure interpretation of Allport's understanding of the importance of a balance between idiographic and nomothetic approaches.
Male Rape and the Careful Construction of the Male Victim
Authors: Graham Ruth
Published: May 2006

Sexual assault generates much attention in social research, but male victims are largely neglected by a predominantly feminist perspective that seeks to highlight the gendered nature of sexual assault as a social phenomenon. As a result there is a relative lack of empirical information on male rape, but it is possible to chart the theoretical development of male rape as a social problem as it emerges in the social research discourse. It is important to examine this development because the current direction of the research on male rape has worrying consequences for how we theorize sexual assault in general. Here I examine how male rape is understood in academic discourse, and I focus specifically on how a credible male victim is constructed with reference to sexual difference, sexuality, and hierarchies of sexual harm. The analysis demonstrates the problems around the concept of ‘male rape’, and the need for all those researching sexual assault to account adequately for both male and female victims alike.
Pancha Kanya
Authors: Bhattacharya Pradip
Published: May 2006

At times we come across traditional sayings that pose enigmas. Often, striving to resolve the puzzle turns into a quest, a search for meaning that, quite unexpectedly, throws light on problems facing us today. Such an enigmatic Sanskrit couplet exhorts invoking five females regularly to redeem us of failings, howsoever grievous.

Ahalya draupadi kunti tara mandodari tatha/

Panchakanya smarenityam mahapataka nashinim//

The choice of the five is itself intriguing, all being epic heroines: Ahalya, Tara and Mandodari from the Ramayana; Kunti and Draupadi from the Mahabharata. Even more so is the celebration of each as kanya, not as nari (woman) or sati (devoted to the husband). If kanya connotes ‘virgin’ (‘daughter’ makes no sense as several of them are not womb-born), the matter becomes more puzzling since each had intimate relationships with more than one man. In analysing what is known about them, we are surprised, for these heroines of ancient myth turn out to be, quite unexpectedly, guides for us in the twenty-first century.
Corporate Codes of Conduct in India
Authors: Elankumaran S.
Published: May 2006

Codes of conduct play an important role in a corporation's effort to institutionalize ethics. The imperative of their implementation and compliance has been widely recognized by corporations across the world. Given this backdrop, a survey has been conducted in India to ascertain: (a) how many corporations have codes of conduct; ( b) whether common ethical issues/themes exist among them; (c) whether they have proper ‘ethics management systems’ in place; and (d) whether codes of conduct reflect any distinctive national character. This article reports the findings of the survey based on content analysis and offers suggestions as to how corporations can make their code an ‘ideal code’ and also scope for further research.