bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Innate Immune Protection against Infectious Diseases by Pulmonary Administration of a Phospholipid-Conjugated TLR7 Ligand
Authors: Wu Christina C.N. , Crain Brian , Yao Shiyin , Sabet Mojgan , Lao Fitzgerald S. , Tawatao Rommel I. , Chan Michael , Smee Donald F. , Julander Justin G. , Cottam Howard B. , Guiney Donald G. , Corr Maripat , Carson Dennis A. , Hayashi Tomoko
Published: November 2013

Pulmonary administration of Toll-like receptor (TLR) ligands protects hosts from inhaled pathogens. However, systemic side effects induced by TLR stimulation limit clinical development. Here, a small-molecule TLR7 ligand conjugated with phospholipid, 1V270 (also designated TMX201), was tested for innate immune activation and its ability to prevent pulmonary infection in mice. We hypothesized that phospholipid conjugation would increase internalization by immune cells and localize the compound in the lungs, thus avoiding side effects due to systemic cytokine release. Pulmonary 1V270 administration increased innate cytokines and chemokines in bronchial alveolar lavage fluids, but neither caused systemic induction of cytokines nor B cell proliferation in distant lymphoid organs. 1V270 activated pulmonary CD11c+ dendritic cells, which migrated to local lymph nodes. However, there was minimal cell infiltration into the pulmonary parenchyma. Prophylactic administration of 1V270 significantly protected mice from lethal infection with Bacillus anthracis, Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus and H1N1 influenza virus. The maximum tolerated dose of 1V270 by pulmonary administration was 75 times the effective therapeutic dose. Therefore, pulmonary 1V270 treatment can protect the host from different infectious agents by stimulating local innate immune responses while exhibiting an excellent safety profile.
Hyperhomocysteinemia in Bipolar Depression: Clinical and Biochemical Correlates
Authors: Permoda-Osip Agnieszka , Dorszewska Jolanta , Skibinska Maria , Chlopocka-Wozniak Maria , Rybakowski Janusz K.
Published: November 2013

Background: Depression may be associated with elevated homocysteine (HCY) levels. Procedures aiming at its decrease, i.e. supplementation with folic acid or vitamin B12, have antidepressant effect. Both depression and elevated HCY can increase cardiovascular risk. In this study, clinical and biochemical factors, including markers of endothelial function, in relation to hyperhomocysteinemia, in patients with bipolar depression during acute episode were studied. Method: One hundred and twelve patients (24 male, 88 female), aged 20-78 (mean 51 ± 14 years), with depressive episode in the course of bipolar mood disorder have been included. The assays were made of serum concentrations of HCY, vitamin B12, folic acid as well as markers of endothelial function such as E-selectin and intracellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1). Results: Hyperhomocysteinemia (>15 mM) was found in 50 patients (45%), significantly more frequently in male (67%) than in female subjects (39%). Female patients with hyperhomocysteinemia were significantly older than the remaining ones. A significant inverse correlation between HCY level and concentration of folic acid and vitamin B12 as well as with E-selectin and ICAM-1 was observed. Conclusion: The results point to a significant prevalence of hyperhomocysteinemia in bipolar depressed patients during an acute episode. They also corroborate the correlation between increased concentration of HCY and lower level of vitamin B12 and folic acid. An unexpected finding of negative correlation of HCY level with markers of endothelial functions in such patients is discussed in view of current concepts of the role of HCY in various conditions.
Interrelationship Among Common Medical Complications After Acute Stroke
Authors: Ji Ruijun , Wang David , Shen Haipeng , Pan Yuesong , Liu Gaifen , Wang Penglian , Wang Yilong , Li Hao , Wang Yongjun
Published: November 2013

Background and Purpose—

Medical complications are common among patients with stroke. However, little is known about the potential interrelationship among them. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the association between common in-hospital medical complications after acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH).

Methods—

We analyzed patients enrolled in the China National Stroke Registry from 2007 to 2008. The occurrence of 11 common stroke-associated medical complications during acute hospitalization was prospectively registered. Multivariable analysis using generalized estimation equation was performed to assess association between medical complications in AIS and ICH cohort, respectively.

Results—

A total of 14 702 patients with AIS and 5221 patients with ICH were enrolled. The median age was 65 years (interquartile range, 55–74 years), and 38.1% were female. The median length of hospital stay was 14 days (interquartile range, 10–20 days) for AIS and 18 days (interquartile range, 11–26 days) for ICH. Pneumonia was the most common medical complication after AIS (11.4%) and ICH (16.8%). In the AIS cohort, after adjusting for potential confounders, pneumonia was significantly associated with development of gastrointestinal bleeding (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 8.35; 95% confidence interval [CI], 6.27–11.1;
P
<0.001), decubitus ulcer (adjusted OR, 5.31; 95% CI, 3.39–8.31;
P
<0.001), deep vein thrombosis (adjusted OR, 4.27; 95% CI, 2.41–7.59;
P
<0.001), epileptic seizure (adjusted OR, 3.96; 95% CI, 2.67–5.88;
P
<0.001), urinary tract infection (adjusted OR, 3.34; 95% CI, 2.73–4.10;
P
<0.001), atrial fibrillation/flutter (adjusted OR, 3.17; 95% CI, 2.58–3.90;
P
<0.001), and recurrent stroke (adjusted OR, 2.65; 95% CI, 2.07–3.40;
P
<0.001). Similar significant association between pneumonia and development of several nonpneumonia medical complications was verified in ICH cohort as well.

Conclusions—

Pneumonia is closely associated with the development of several nonpneumonia medical complications after AIS and ICH.
Taxonomy of the Oriental genus Bolbochromus: a generic overview and descriptions of four new species (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Bolboceratinae)
Authors: KRIKKEN JAN , LI CHUN-LIN
Published: November 2013

A taxonomic overview of the essentially Oriental genus Bolbochromus Boucomont, 1909 is given. Two new southeast Asian subgenera are proposed: Metabolbochromus (type species Scarabaeus sulcicollis Wiedemann, 1819), characterised by unique male genitalia (lacking separated parameres), and Bolbochromops (type species Bolboceras ludekingi Lansberge, 1886), with a distinctly two-horned head (but with separated parameres). The remaining known Bolbochromus, apparently all with a distinct pair of parameres and a distinct frontovertexal protrusion only, are left in the nominotypical subgenus, awaiting a reappraisal of the poorly sampled continental fauna. Four new species are described and compared with close relatives, all in the nominotypical subgenus: Bolbochromus (Bolbochromus) dumogensis (Sulawesi), B. (Bolbochromus) mindanaicus (Philippines), B. (Bolbochromus) pumilus (south India), and B. (Bolbochromus) sinensis (south China). Identity of type species of Bolbochromus to be established (type of Bolboceras laetus Westwood, 1852 not found, and type locality Ceylon doubtful). All named Bolbochromus taxa are listed and characterised (some of them tentatively) in a synoptic table. The southeast Asian island taxa are all keyed and diagnosed, along with notes on variation, range extensions, taxon ranking, and illustrations.
Revision of Taxigramma pseudaperta Séguy, 1941 and comparisons with sympatric T. multipunctata (Rondani, 1859) (Diptera: Sarcophagidae)
Authors: RICHET RENÉ , VERVES YURY G. , WHITMORE DANIEL , PAPE THOMAS
Published: November 2013

The identity of the nominal taxon Taxigramma pseudaperta Séguy, 1941 [type locality: France, Corse] is revised and an improved circumscription based partly on reared material of both sexes is presented through comparison with the very similar and sympatric species T. multipunctata (Rondani, 1859). A table is provided to separate first instars, puparia, males and females of these two taxa.
Tropical Pacific Influence on the Source and Transport of Marine Aerosols to West Antarctica*
Authors: Criscitiello Alison S. , Das Sarah B. , Karnauskas Kristopher B. , Evans Matthew J. , Frey Karen E. , Joughin Ian , Steig Eric J. , McConnell Joseph R. , Medley Brooke
Published: November 2013

The climate of West Antarctica is strongly influenced by remote forcing from the tropical Pacific. For example, recent surface warming over West Antarctica reflects atmospheric circulation changes over the Amundsen Sea, driven by an atmospheric Rossby wave response to tropical sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies. Here, it is demonstrated that tropical Pacific SST anomalies also influence the source and transport of marine-derived aerosols to the West Antarctic Ice Sheet. Using records from four firn cores collected along the Amundsen coast of West Antarctica, the relationship between sea ice–modulated chemical species and large-scale atmospheric variability in the tropical Pacific from 1979 to 2010 is investigated. Significant correlations are found between marine biogenic aerosols and sea salts, and SST and sea level pressure in the tropical Pacific. In particular, La Niña–like conditions generate an atmospheric Rossby wave response that influences atmospheric circulation over Pine Island Bay. Seasonal regression of atmospheric fields on methanesulfonic acid (MSA) reveals a reduction in onshore wind velocities in summer at Pine Island Bay, consistent with enhanced katabatic flow, polynya opening, and coastal dimethyl sulfide production. Seasonal regression of atmospheric fields on chloride (Cl−) reveals an intensification in onshore wind velocities in winter, consistent with sea salt transport from offshore source regions. Both the source and transport of marine aerosols to West Antarctica are found to be modulated by similar atmospheric dynamics in response to remote forcing. Finally, the regional ice-core array suggests that there is both a temporally and a spatially varying response to remote tropical forcing.
Scaling Potential Evapotranspiration with Greenhouse Warming
Authors: Scheff Jacob , Frierson Dargan M. W.
Published: November 2013

Potential evapotranspiration (PET) is a supply-independent measure of the evaporative demand of a terrestrial climate—of basic importance in climatology, hydrology, and agriculture. Future increases in PET from greenhouse warming are often cited as key drivers of global trends toward drought and aridity. The present work computes recent and “business as usual” future Penman–Monteith PET fields at 3-hourly resolution in 13 modern global climate models. The percentage change in local annual-mean PET over the upcoming century is almost always positive, modally low double-digit in magnitude, usually increasing with latitude, yet quite divergent between models.

These patterns are understood as follows. In every model, the global field of PET percentage change is found to be dominated by the direct, positive effects of constant-relative-humidity warming (via increasing vapor deficit and increasing Clausius–Clapeyron slope). This direct-warming term accurately scales as the PET-weighted (warm-season daytime) local warming, times 5%–6% °C−1 (related to the Clausius–Clapeyron equation), times an analytic factor ranging from about 0.25 in warm climates to 0.75 in cold climates, plus a small correction. With warming of several degrees, this product is of low double-digit magnitude, and the strong temperature dependence gives the latitude dependence. Similarly, the intermodel spread in the amount of warming gives most of the spread in this term. Additional spread in the total change comes from strong disagreement on radiation, relative humidity, and wind speed changes, which make smaller yet substantial contributions to the full PET percentage change fields.
The Generation of Surfzone Eddies in a Strong Alongshore Current
Authors: Feddersen Falk
Published: November 2013

The surfzone contains energetic two-dimensional horizontal eddies with length scale larger than the water depth. Yet, the dominant eddy generation mechanism is not understood. The wave-resolving model funwaveC is used to simulate surfzone eddies in four case examples, from the SandyDuck field experiment, that had alongshore uniform bathymetry. The funwaveC model is initialized with the observed bathymetry and the incident wave field in 8-m depth and reproduces the observed cross-shore structure of significant wave height and mean alongshore current. Within the surfzone, the wave-resolving funwaveC-modeled E(f, ky) spectra and the bulk (frequency and ky integrated) rotational velocities are consistent with the observations below the sea–swell band (<0.05 Hz), demonstrating that the model can be used to diagnose surfzone eddy generation mechanisms. In the mean-squared perturbation vorticity budget, the breaking wave vorticity forcing term is orders of magnitude larger than the shear instability generation term. Thus, surfzone eddies (vorticity) generally are not generated through a shear instability, with possible exceptions for very narrow banded in frequency and direction and highly obliquely large incident waves. The alongshore wavenumber spectra of breaking wave vorticity forcing is broad with the majority (>80%) of vorticity forcing occurring at short alongshore scales <20 m. However, the alongshore wavenumber spectra of vorticity is red, which may be due to a 2D turbulence inverse energy cascade bringing energy to longer wavelengths or may result from an amplified vorticity response to direct forcing at smaller ky.
Online Use of the Fuzzy Transform in the Estimation of Electric Vehicle Range
Authors: Cunningham Iain , Burnham Keith
Published: November 2013

The phenomenon of range anxiety is a disincentive to the uptake of electric vehicles by a large proportion of drivers despite the range afforded by an electric vehicle being more than is required by the majority of drivers for their daily journeys. Although efforts continue to alleviate the situation through increasing the autonomous range of vehicles that operate from a battery, in some cases, it might be that range anxiety may also be mitigated through better driver information. However, the systems comprising any vehicle and an electric vehicle in particular are highly complex and nonlinear and do not lend themselves to analytical modelling to allow range prediction; instead, model-free methods must be employed. One relatively recent advance in model-free methods is the ‘Fuzzy Transform’, which has now been adapted to online use for the prediction of remaining range of an electric vehicle.
The Emergence of Social Smiling
Authors: Wörmann Viktoriya , Holodynski Manfred , Kärtner Joscha , Keller Heidi
Published: November 2013

The study addresses the emergence of the social smile in two different sociocultural contexts during the first 12 postnatal weeks. We examined different eliciting mechanisms like mutual gazing, maternal smile during mutual gazing, and reciprocal maternal and infant imitation of smiling. In co-constructivist theories of emotional development, all of them are considered social mechanisms that foster the emergence of social smile in early infancy around the 2-month shift. During the 6th postnatal week, we assumed that mutual gazing and the accompanying maternal smiles are the primary mechanisms that correspond with first infants’ social smile. From the 2-month shift onward, thus during the 8th, 10th, and 12th postnatal weeks, we assumed maternal imitation of infant smile moderates the positive relationship between infant imitation of maternal smile and the duration of infant social smile. We compared face-to-face interactions between 20 mother–child dyads from an independent sociocultural context (urban middle-class families from Münster, Germany) and 24 mother–child dyads from an interdependent sociocultural context (rural Nso families, Cameroon) when the infants were 6, 8, 10, and 12 weeks old. The first hypothesis could be corroborated for both cultural contexts, the second hypothesis only partly for the independent cultural contexts and staggered for the interdependent context. The consequences of culture-specific developmental pathways of social smile are discussed.
Unifying Configurational Comparative Methods
Authors: Thiem Alrik
Published: November 2013

Crisp-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis, fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA), and multi-value Qualitative Comparative Analysis (mvQCA) have emerged as distinct variants of QCA, with the latter still being regarded as a technique of doubtful set-theoretic status. Textbooks on configurational comparative methods have emphasized differences rather than commonalities between these variants. This article has two consecutive objectives, both of which focus on commonalities. First, but secondary in importance, it demonstrates that all set types associated with each variant can be combined within the same analysis by introducing a standardized notational system. By implication, any doubts about the set-theoretic status of mvQCA vis-à-vis its two sister variants are removed. Second, but primary in importance and dependent on the first objective, this article introduces the concept of the multivalent fuzzy set variable. This variable type forms the basis of generalized-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (gsQCA), an approach that integrates the features peculiar to mvQCA and fsQCA into a single framework while retaining routine truth table construction and minimization procedures. Under the concept of the multivalent fuzzy set variable, all existing QCA variants become special cases of gsQCA.
Persistent Hepatic Structural Alterations Following Nanoceria Vascular Infusion in the Rat
Authors: Tseng Michael T. , Fu Qiang , Lor Khoua , Fernandez-Botran G. Rafael , Deng Zhong-Bin , Graham Uschi , Butterfield D. Allan , Grulke Eric A. , Yokel Robert A.
Published: November 2013

Understanding the long-term effects and possible toxicity of nanoceria, a widely utilized commercial metal oxide, is of particular importance as it is poised for development as a therapeutic agent based on its autocatalytic redox behavior. We show here evidence of acute and subacute adverse hepatic responses, after a single infusion of an aqueous dispersion of 85 mg/kg, 30 nm nanoceria into Sprague Dawley rats. Light and electron microscopic evidence of avid uptake of nanoceria by Kupffer cells was detected as early as 1 hr after infusion. Biopersistent nanoceria stimulated cluster of differentiation 3+ lymphocyte proliferation that intermingled with nanoceria-containing Kupffer cells to form granulomata that were observed between days 30 and 90. Ultrastructural tracking of ceria nanoparticles revealed aggregated nanoceria in phagolysosomes. An increased formation of small nanoceria over time observed in the latter suggests possible dissolution and precipitation of nanoceria. However, the pathway for nanoceria metabolism/secretion remains unclear. Although frank hepatic necrosis was not observed, the retention of nanoceria increased hepatic apoptosis acutely, this persisted to day 90. These findings, together with our earlier reports of 5-nm ceria-induced liver toxicity, provide additional guidance for nanoceria development as a therapeutic agent and for its risk assessment.
Targeting the Protein–Protein Interaction between IRS1 and Mutant p110α for Cancer Therapy
Authors: Hao Yujun , Zhao Shuliang , Wang Zhenghe
Published: November 2013

Phosphoinositide-3-kinase, catalytic, alpha polypeptide, which encodes the catalytic p110α subunit of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase α, is the most frequently mutated oncogene in human cancers. Targeting mutant p110α holds great promise for cancer therapy. However, it is challenging to develop p110α isoform-specific inhibitors. Most p110α mutations occur at two hot spot regions: an acidic cluster (E542, E545, and Q546) in the helical domain and a histidine residue (H1047) in the kinase domain. We recently discovered that p110α helical domain mutant proteins, but not the kinase domain mutant proteins, directly associate with insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS1). Moreover, we demonstrated that disruption of protein–protein interaction between p110α helical domain mutant and IRS1 inhibits the growth of tumors with such mutations. The direct protein interaction between IRS1 and p110α helical domain mutants may provide a more accessible target for developing novel precision cancer therapy.
Songcrafting: A teacher’s perspective of collaborative inquiry and creation of classroom practice
Authors: Muhonen Sari
Published: November 2013

This article examines the wider meanings of collective inquiries, creative collaboration and learning at work through analyzing a teacher’s learning process when plunging into collaborative inquiry and creation with the students in primary classroom context. The incorporation of “songcrafting” into the existing practice of singing ready-made songs is analyzed and evaluated as a teacher-researcher’s reflection-on-practice. The case of long-term change in practice is modeled as collaborative creative process (Csikszentmihalyi, 199; Sawyer, 2006) and inquiry (Dewey, 1933/LW 8, 1938/LW 12), examining its enhancing and hindering elements. An extension on the definition of songcrafting is presented. By seeing the teacher as a constant co-learner alongside her students, the creative capabilities of both are highlighted. The issues of reproduction and collaborative creation concerning both musical practices and musical works are also examined.
The Effect of Parenteral Lipid Emulsions on Pulmonary Hemodynamics and Eicosanoid Metabolites in Preterm Infants
Authors: Vasudevan Chakrapani , Johnson Kathryn , Miall Lawrence S. , Thompson Douglas , Puntis John
Published: November 2013

Background: Soy‐based intravenous fat emulsion (IVFE) is known to cause a rise in pulmonary artery pressure in the preterm infant, thought to be mediated through eicosanoid metabolites of linoleic acid. We compared the effect of soy‐based IVFE and an olive‐oil‐based IVFE containing less than half the content of linoleic acid on pulmonary artery pressure and eicosanoid metabolites in preterm infants receiving parenteral nutrition. Methods: In this pilot study at a regional neonatal intensive care unit (ICU), infants received either a soy‐based or olive‐oil‐based IVFE as part of an otherwise identical feeding protocol. Pulmonary artery pressure and urinary thromboxane B2 and prostaglandin F1 alpha were measured at baseline and maximum lipid infusion. Results: There was a greater fall in pulmonary artery pressure in the olive‐oil‐based IVFE group compared with the soy‐based IVFE group. A decrease in urine thromboxane/prostaglandin F1 alpha ratio was seen only in the olive‐oil‐based IVFE group. Conclusions: In the parenterally fed preterm infant, an olive‐oil‐based IVFE may have a beneficial effect on pulmonary artery pressure when compared with soy‐based IVFE. Effects on pulmonary vascular tone are likely to be mediated through alterations in eicosanoid metabolism. A randomized trial is warranted to compare the effects of different lipid emulsions.
Interpersonal Aggression Victimization Within Casual Sexual Relationships and Experiences
Authors: Klipfel Katherine M. , Claxton Shannon E. , van Dulmen Manfred H. M.
Published: November 2013

The frequent occurrence of aggression within committed romantic relationships is well documented. However, little is known about experiences of interpersonal aggression within casual sexual relationships and experiences. This study aimed to describe the occurrence of emotional, physical, and sexual aggression victimization within committed romantic relationships, casual dating relationships, friends-with-benefit relationships, booty-calls, and one-night stands. College students ( N = 172) provided data regarding the lifetime occurrence of emotional, physical, and sexual aggression across different forms of casual sexual relationships and experiences (friends-with-benefits, booty-call, casual dating, one-night stands, committed relationships). Emotional, physical, and sexual subtypes of aggression were reported across all casual sexual relationships and experiences. While a higher percentage of individuals who had been involved in committed relationships reported experiencing at least one form of aggression (approximately 69%), prevalence of at least one form of aggression ranged from approximately 31% to 36% for the various casual sexual relationships/experiences. Across relationships/experiences, emotional and sexual aggression were more common than physical aggression. The findings from this study indicate that emotional, physical, and sexual aggression occur across types of relationships and experiences. Thus, the current study underscores the importance of considering casual dating, friends-with-benefits, booty-calls, and one-night stands when assessing interpersonal aggression.
Who Gives to International Causes? A Sociodemographic Analysis of U.S. Donors
Authors: Casale Daniela , Baumann Anna
Published: November 2013

In the United States, a small proportion of private donors gives to international charity. We explore the profile of these donors with a view to understanding who supports international causes relative to domestic causes only and, more generally, what shapes public concern for those in need in other countries. Using data from the 2001 survey on “Giving and Volunteering in the United States,” we employ a series of probit regressions to compare the sociodemographic correlates of giving to international causes with 11 other domestic causes such as health, education, and the arts. We find that while income is not associated with the likelihood of international giving, postgraduate education, being foreign-born, and religiosity are large and significant predictors. We also explore the impact of various measures of social capital and civic engagement, and find that institutional trust and youth volunteering are strongly associated with international giving relative to the other causes.
A new mapping technique to consider intermediate stages in multistep deep drawing
Authors: Shirin Mehdi Bostan , Assempour Ahmad
Published: November 2013

The inverse solution is helpful to determine the drawability of a part and drawing parameters at the initial design stage. The usual inverse algorithms consider the drawing process that occurs in one step and therefore they are not able to analyze the processes which need more than one drawing step. Therefore, multistep inverse solution has been used for such problems. The multistep inverse solution deals with finding the initial guesses of nodal positions on intermediate stages and solving inverse equations between two consecutive steps. In this paper, a new mapping method has been developed to find the initial nodal positions on intermediate stages and the unfolding technique has been applied to find the final nodal positions on the blank sheet. The proposed method would obtain a system of equations without convergence problems. Two examples have been considered to demonstrate the capability of the proposed modeling technique. First, a two-stage drawing process of a circular cup has been analyzed and the results have been compared with the experiment results. Second, in order to apply the technique on a non-axisymmetric part, a multistage drawing of a square cup has been examined and the results have been reported.
Calculation and laboratory testing of the rotation resistance of a bogie
Authors: Shi Huai-long , Wu Ping-bo , Luo Ren , Guo Jin-ying
Published: November 2013

The rotation movement between bogie and carbody is studied using vehicle system dynamics theory and formulas for the rotation resistance factor are derived for different air spring states. Laboratory tests are conducted and the obtained results are compared with calculations. The rotation resistance factor for motor and trailer cars experiencing AW0 and AW4 loading conditions when air springs are in inflated, deflated and over-inflated states are considered so as to validate the proposed formulas and test and discuss error sources. The rotation resistance factor of the bogie is related to the rotation angle and speed. The faster the rotation speed, then the greater is the rotation resistance factor. The greater the rotation angle, then the greater is the rotation resistance factor. The maximum rotation resistance factor is 0.094 for a trailer car at a rotation speed of 1 deg/s and experiencing AW0 loading conditions and with the air springs in the deflated state. The maximum rotation resistance factor when the air springs are deflated is much greater than that when the air springs are in the inflated state for a rotation speed of 1 deg/s. The maximum rotation resistance factor obtained at a rotation speed of 1 deg/s is much greater than the one obtained at 0.2 deg/s. The over-inflated state of air springs has little influence on the rotation resistance of the bogie. The calculated results obtained when considering air springs in inflated and over-inflated states are slightly smaller than test results with a maximum difference of 0.02. For the deflated state of the air springs, the calculated and test results for a trailer car are equivalent and the calculated results are slightly larger than the test results for a motor car with a maximum difference of about 0.02. The theoretical formulas should consider the dynamic nature of stiffness properties and damping effect of air springs. The effects of other suspension components should also be considered. A laboratory test or field test after assembly is an essential requirement. The comparison of test and calculated results validates the proposed formulas and allows sources of error to be discussed.
Human brain mercury levels related to exposure to amalgam fillings
Authors: Ertaş E , Aksoy A , Turla A , Karaarslan ES , Karaarslan B , Aydın A , Eken A
Published: November 2013

The safety of dental amalgam as the primary material in dental restoration treatments has been debated since its introduction. It is widely accepted that amalgam restorations continuously release elemental mercury (Hg) vapor, which is inhaled and absorbed by the body and distributed to tissues, including the brain. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether the presence of amalgam fillings is correlated with brain Hg level. The Hg levels in the parietal lobes of the brains of 32 cadavers were analyzed with an atomic absorption spectrometer with the mercury hydride system. A total of 32 brain samples were tested; of these, 10 were from cadavers with amalgam fillings, while 22 of them were amalgam free. Hg was detected in 60.0% (6 of 10) of the samples in the amalgam group and in 36.3% (8 of 22) in the amalgam-free group. The average Hg level of the amalgam group was 0.97 ± 0.83 µg/g (minimum: 0.3 µg/g and maximum: 2.34 µg/g), and in the amalgam-free group, it was 1.06 ± 0.57 µg/g (minimum: 0.17 µg/g and maximum: 1.76 µg/g). The results of the present study showed no correlation between the presence of amalgam fillings and brain Hg level.
Hacking and Harassment—Do They Have Something in Common? Comparing Risk Factors for Online Victimization
Authors: Wilsem Johan van
Published: November 2013

Contrary to committing hacking offences, becoming a victim of hacking has received scant research attention. This article addresses risk factors for this type of crime and explores its theoretical and empirical connectedness to the more commonly studied type of cybercrime victimization: online harassment. The results show that low self-control acts as a general risk factor in two ways. First, it leads to a higher risk of experiencing either one of these two distinct types of victimization within a 1-year period. Second, cumulatively the experiences of being hacked and harassed are also more prominent among this group. However, specific online behaviors predicted specific online victimization types (e.g., using social media predicted only harassment and not hacking). The results thus shed more light on the extent to which criminological theories are applicable across different types of Internet-related crime.
Opening Cinematics
Authors: Procci Katelyn , Lakhmani Shan , Hussain Talib S. , Bowers Clint A.
Published: November 2013

For the development of serious gaming, it is necessary to articulate the specific features that lend themselves best to the creation of effective learning games. Given the limited resources of the typical serious games developer, time and money should be spent in a way such that features with the greatest return on investment take priority. Opening cinematics, a popular feature of games, was examined through the lens of three major theoretical perspectives that promote learning, specifically situated learning, emotional arousal, and goal orientation. A series of three experiments was conducted to determine if the inclusion of opening cinematics was able to change the goal orientation of players as well as improve the effectiveness of a serious game used to train U.S. Navy recruits shipboard damage control procedures. The data suggest that opening cinematics were not worth the immense development investment. Game design suggestions and potential topics for future research are provided.
The Psychological Benefits of Creating an Affirming Climate for Workplace Diversity
Authors: Chrobot-Mason Donna , Aramovich Nicholas P.
Published: November 2013

Workforce diversity has been described as a double-edged sword; it has the potential for positive and negative outcomes. To better understand why and how diversity leads to positive outcomes, we examined the relationship between employee perceptions of diversity climate perceptions and intent to turnover. We explored the role of four psychological outcome variables (organizational commitment, climate for innovation, psychological empowerment, and identity freedom) as possible mediators of this relationship. Racial and gender subgroup differences were also examined. Survey data were collected from 1,731 public employees. Findings suggest that when employees perceive equal access to opportunities and fair treatment, intent to turn over decreases. Furthermore, these relationships are significantly mediated by psychological outcomes. Implications for diversity management and training are discussed.
Inflammation and Atherosclerosis—Revisited
Authors: Pant Sadip , Deshmukh Abhishek , GuruMurthy Guru S. , Pothineni Naga Venkata , Watts Thomas Evans , Romeo Francesco , Mehta Jawahar L.
Published: November 2013

Atherogenesis has been traditionally viewed as a metabolic disease representing arterial obstruction by fatty deposits in its wall. Today, it is believed that atherogenesis involves highly specific biochemical and molecular responses with constant interactions between various cellular players. Despite the presence of inflammatory reaction in each and every step of atherosclerosis from its inception to terminal manifestation, the cause–effect relationship of these 2 processes remains unclear. In this article, we have attempted to review the role of inflammation in the development of atherosclerosis and in its major complication—coronary heart disease.
Toxicological Assessment of Heavy Straight Run Naphtha in a Repeated Dose/Reproductive Toxicity Screening Test
Authors: McKee Richard H. , Steup David , Schreiner Ceinwen , Podhasky Paula , Malley Linda A. , Roberts Linda
Published: November 2013

Gasoline blending stocks (naphthas) are comprised of normal, iso- and cycloparaffins and aromatic hydrocarbons with carbon numbers ranging from C4 to C12. Heavy straight run naphtha (HSRN, CAS number 64741-41-9) was selected for toxicity screening because substances of this type contain relatively high levels (28%) of cycloparaffins by comparison to other naphtha streams and the data complement toxicity information on other gasoline blending streams. Rats were exposed by inhalation to wholly vaporized material at levels of approximately 100, 500, or 3000 parts per million (ppm) daily to screen the potential for systemic toxicity, neurotoxicity, reproductive toxicity, and developmental effects to postnatal day 4. All animals survived the treatment period. Principal effects of repeated exposure included increased liver weights in males and females, increased kidney weights in males, and histological changes in the thyroid, secondary to liver enzyme induction. These changes were not considered to be toxicologically meaningful and are not relevant to humans. There were no treatment-related effects in functional observation tests or motor activity; no significant reductions in fertility or changes in other reproductive parameters; and no evidence of developmental toxicity in offspring. The overall no observed adverse effect concentration was 3000 ppm (approximately 13 600 mg/m3). In conclusion the HSRN effects on liver and kidney are consistent with the results of other studies of volatile fractions or other naphthas or formulated gasoline, and there were no HSRN effects on neurological developmental or reproductive parameters.
The Toxicological Properties of Petroleum Gases
Authors: McKee Richard H. , Herron Deborah , Saperstein Mark , Podhasky Paula , Hoffman Gary M. , Roberts Linda
Published: November 2013

To characterize the toxicological hazards of petroleum gases, 90-day inhalation toxicity (Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development [OECD] 413) and developmental toxicity (OECD 414) tests were conducted with liquefied propane gas (LPG) at concentrations of 1000, 5000, or 10 000 ppm. A micronucleus test (OECD 474) of LPG was also conducted. No systemic or developmental effects were observed; the overall no observed adverse effect concentration (NOAEC) was 10 000 ppm. Further, there was no effect of LPG exposure at levels up to 10 000 ppm on micronucleus induction and no evidence of bone marrow toxicity. Other alkane gases (ethane, propane, n-butane, and isobutane) were then evaluated in combined repeated exposure studies with reproduction/development toxicity screening tests (OECD 422). There were no toxicologically important changes in parameters relating to systemic toxicity or neurotoxicity for any of these gases at concentrations ranging from 9000 to 16 000 ppm. There was no evidence of effects on developmental or reproductive toxicity in the studies of ethane, propane, or n-butane at the highest concentrations tested. However, there was a reduction in mating in the high-exposure group (9000 ppm) of the isobutane study, which although not significantly different was outside the range previously observed in the testing laboratory. Assuming the reduction in mating to have been toxicologically significant, the NOAEC for the isobutane reproductive toxicity screening test was 3000 ppm (7125 mg/m3). A method is proposed by which the toxicity of any of the 106 complex petroleum gas streams can be estimated from its composition.
The Toxicological Effects of Heavy Fuel Oil Category Substances
Authors: McKee Richard H. , Reitman Fred , Schreiner Ceinwen , White Russell , Charlap Jeffrey H. , O’Neill Thomas P. , Goyak Katy Olsavsky
Published: November 2013

Heavy fuel oil (HFO) category substances are used to manufacture HFO, a product used in industrial boilers and marine diesel engines. Commercial HFOs and blending stream components are substances of complex and variable composition, composed of C20 to >C50 hydrocarbons, although lower molecular weight material may be added to reduce viscosity and improve flow characteristics. An HFO blending stream (catalytically cracked clarified oil [CCCO]) was tested for target organ and developmental toxicity in rats following repeated dermal administration at doses of 5, 25, or 50 mg/kg/d. In the repeated dose study, there was evidence of increased liver weights, reduced thymus weights, and reductions in hematological parameters with an overall no observed adverse effect level (NOAEL) of 5 mg/kg/d. In the developmental toxicity test, there were significant reductions in fetal survival, significant increases in resorption frequency, and significantly reduced fetal weights with an overall NOAEL of 5 mg/kg/d. These target organ and developmental effects are associated with the types and levels of aromatic constituents in these substances. Among HFO blending streams, CCCOs have the highest levels of aromatics and, because they produce the characteristic toxicological effects at the lowest levels, are considered as “reasonable worst-case examples” for this group of substances. Other HFO category members with lower levels of aromatics produce similar effects but have higher NOAELs. The potential for target organ and developmental effects of other HFO category members can be predicted from information on the types and levels of the aromatic constituents present in these substances.
The double arrow: How qualitative social work researchers use reflexivity
Authors: Probst Barbara , Berenson Laura
Published: November 2013

While much has been written about the central role of reflexivity in qualitative research, there has been no empirical study of how researchers actually ‘do’ reflexivity. As interest in qualitative research continues to grow, data is needed to operationalize and map what is assumed to be a hallmark of the qualitative paradigm. A study was thus conducted to explore the role and use of reflexivity in qualitative research. In-depth interviews were conducted with 34 qualitative social work researchers to gather information about the use of specific reflexive activities at various points in the research process. Participants were from eight countries, with the majority (65%) from the US, and included researchers utilizing diverse methods and with varying degrees of experience. Interviewees described a wide array of activities, formal and informal, conducted alone or with others, that they utilized to support reflexivity; most also stated that they made use of reflexive actions as the need arose, depending on the nature of the project, rather than in a systematic way. Although the study generated a catalog of reflexive activities, ultimately the mechanism of reflexivity may not lie in the specific activity but in the attitude with which it is carried out.
In search for a sociology of social problems for social work
Authors: Nissen Maria Appel
Published: November 2013

The purpose of this article is to convey an invitation to engage in a search for a sociology of social problems for social work. The article explores the theoretical potential for and obstacles to a sociology of social problems for social work within a European context. This is done through a critical discussion of sociologies of social problems developed in the USA, as well as the sociologies of Pierre Bourdieu and Michel Foucault. Through this discussion both potentials and obstacles are identified. The latter is related to problems in understanding the complex relation between the context of society and the identifications of and solutions to social problems, and how collective action might influence this relation. It is argued that exploring this theoretical problem is important for a sociology of social problems adequate for social work embedded in different societal contexts. Therefore it is suggested that we engage in a development of sociologies of social problems more adequate for social work, and that this can be done through qualitative research exploring practical knowledge about social problems. In this respect, the article proposes an approach to qualitative research focusing on the complexity of the relationships between the context of society and the identification of and solution to social problems including the conditions for collective action. This approach involves a conceptual scheme – problem identification and problem solution – as well as a set of analytical questions which both utilize potentials and seek to transcend obstacles within current theory development. By engaging in qualitative research of this kind it might be possible to discover a new practical sociological language about social problems that can inform theory development.
Review and Update on New Horizon in the Management of Venous Ulcers
Authors: Mousa Albeir Y. , Richmond Bryan K. , AbuRahma Ali F.
Published: November 2013

Chronic venous ulcers (CVUs) contribute to functional deficits and are a source of significant morbidity among the affected population. In addition, they directly impact the quality of life of patients and are a significant economic burden on the health care system. In this review, we critically evaluate the current strategies for treating CVUs that have emerged within the last decade and outlined a suggested algorithm for treating patients with this difficult condition.
Investigation of microstructure and magnetic properties of melt spun Fe–P–C–Si–Cu ribbons
Authors: Chen F. G. , Wang Y. G.
Published: November 2013

Soft magnetic alloy Fe81-xP9C7Si3Cux ( x = 0, 0·5, 0·7, 1, 1·3) ribbons were produced by the single roller melt spinning method. The Cu content dependence of microstructure and magnetic properties was investigated. Appropriate addition of Cu is effective to the improvement of glass forming ability (GFA) and soft magnetic properties in this alloy system. The thermal stability, crystallisation process and soft magnetic properties of Fe80P9C7Si3Cu1 were also investigated. Excellent soft magnetic properties with low coercivity Hc (5·9 A m−1) and high magnetic flux density B8000 (1·68 T) can be obtained annealing this alloy at 653 K for 2 min. Low cost of raw materials and good soft magnetic properties make this alloy a promising candidate for future application.
Microstructural characterisation of thermally degraded 2·25Cr–1Mo steel using ultrasonic measurement and its correlation with mechanical properties
Authors: Sahoo S. , Jha B. B. , Sahoo T. K.
Published: November 2013

Ultrasonic testing is a sensitive tool not only for defect detection and evaluation of components and structures but also to characterise microstructural features which affect mechanical properties. In this study, four different thermally degraded specimens of 2·25Cr–1Mo steel have been prepared by aging at 873 K for 10 h, 923 K for 20 h, 973 K for 40 h and 973K for 80 h to obtain variation in microstructural features. Mechanical properties of each specimen having different microstructures were investigated using tensile and hardness tests. Ultrasonic parameters of each specimen having different microstructural features were studied by pulse echo technique using 5 MHz longitudinal probe. It has been observed that ultrasonic velocity and attenuation both increased with increase in the size of carbide precipitates obtained due to increased time and temperature of aging. Our results indicated that these ultrasonic parameters could be used as a tool to assess the degraded microstructure of operating components in service.
Scratch resistance of fibre laser surface textured TiN coatings
Authors: Demir A G , Lecis N , Previtali B , Ugues D
Published: November 2013

In this work, the scratch resistance of laser surface textured TiN coatings is studied to discriminate laser conditions in terms of coating adhesion and integrity in view of future wear tests. Laser surface texturing (LST) is performed on TiN coating ∼3 μm thick using a pulsed active fibre laser working in nanosecond pulse regime. Laser process parameters are varied to obtain several patterns with different dimple diameter, depth and pitch, all of which are essential for controlling tribological behaviour. Scratch tests are applied to the obtained patterns to evaluate the friction coefficient, the critical loads for crack generation and adhesion. The most suitable LST pattern is identified as having shallow dimples without substrate contamination, showing no cracks even under harsh scratch conditions.