bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cues to deception in context: Response latency/gaps in denials and blame shifting
Authors: Reynolds Edward , Rendle‐Short Johanna
Published: September 2010

Over 40 years of work on lying in psychology and communication has investigated numerous ‘cues to deception’– the subtle signals people show when they are lying. One of these cues to deception is ‘response latency’ or the gap that occurs between questions and the lying response. The current investigation uses the methodology of conversation analysis to re‐consider the question of response latency in the context of lying. Drawing on data from two naturalistic sources, the television shows COPS and the Jeremy Kyle Show, this investigation analyses response latencies in order to show the regular organization of gaps between turns in both lies and non‐lies. The current investigation demonstrates that in blame shifting turns which are lies, any gaps between turns result from a display of upcoming ‘trouble’, rather than being related to lying per se. The investigation highlights the need to analyse lies in the contexts in which they are told, taking prior and subsequent talk into account.
Subsets of ℤ with Simultaneous Orderings
Authors: Adam David , Chabert Jean-Luc , Fares Youssef
Published: September 2010

We are interested in subsets
Cusp estimation in random design regression models
Authors: Fujii Takayuki
Published: September 2010

We consider the parametric estimation for the random design nonlinear regression model whose regression function has an unknown cusp location. The Fisher information of this location parameter is unbounded, that is caused by the non-differentiability of the likelihood function, so this is a non-regular estimation problem. In this paper, we verify the asymptotic properties of the Bayes estimator (BE), e.g. the consistency, the asymptotic distribution and the convergence of its moments, by the likelihood ratio process whose limit is expressed in terms of fractional Brownian motion. Further, we show that the BE is asymptotically efficient in a certain minimax sense.
Strain, Self-Control, and Gender Differences in Delinquency among Chinese Adolescents: Extending General Strain Theory
Authors: Cheung Nicole Wai Ting , Cheung Yuet W.
Published: September 2010

Agnew's general strain theory (GST) and Gottfredson and Hirschi's self-control theory represent significant theoretical developments in sociology of deviance over the last two decades. Both theories offer unique insights into the well-known controversy of gender disparity in crime and delinquency. Incorporating their ideas and testing them in a Chinese context, this study investigates the role of self-control, which has been seldom included in GST assessments, in moderating the strain-delinquency relationship and analyzes whether this conditioning effect varies by gender. Using data from 1,015 Chinese students in Hong Kong, negative binominal regression models found that self-control is a gender-specific conditioning factor of strain. Self-control mitigates the effects of certain strains on delinquency for females only. Yet, unexpectedly, coercive parenting decreases male delinquency and moderates the impact of low self-control in males. The implications of Chinese cultural forces for the perception of strain and the conditioning influence of self-control merit closer attention.
Dietary Nucleotides and Early Growth in Formula-Fed Infants: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Singhal Atul , Kennedy Kathy , Lanigan J. , Clough Helen , Jenkins Wendy , Elias-Jones Alun , Stephenson Terrence , Dudek Peter , Lucas Alan
Published: September 2010

BACKGROUND:

Dietary nucleotides are nonprotein nitrogenous compounds that are found in high concentrations in breast milk and are thought to be conditionally essential nutrients in infancy. A high nucleotide intake has been suggested to explain some of the benefits of breastfeeding compared with formula feeding and to promote infant growth. However, relatively few large-scale randomized trials have tested this hypothesis in healthy infants.

OBJECTIVE:

We tested the hypothesis that nucleotide supplementation of formula benefits early infant growth.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Occipitofrontal head circumference, weight, and length were assessed in infants who were randomly assigned to groups fed nucleotide-supplemented (31 mg/L; n = 100) or control formula without nucleotide supplementation (n = 100) from birth to the age of 20 weeks, and in infants who were breastfed (reference group; n = 101).

RESULTS:

Infants fed with nucleotide-supplemented formula had greater occipitofrontal head circumference at ages 8, 16, and 20 weeks than infants fed control formula (mean difference in z scores at 8 weeks: 0.4 [95% confidence interval: 0.1–0.7]; P = .006) even after adjustment for potential confounding factors (P = .002). Weight at 8 weeks and the increase in both occipitofrontal head circumference and weight from birth to 8 weeks were also greater in infants fed nucleotide-supplemented formula than in those fed control formula.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our data support the hypothesis that nucleotide supplementation leads to increased weight gain and head growth in formula-fed infants. Therefore, nucleotides could be conditionally essential for optimal infant growth in some formula-fed populations. Additional research is needed to test the hypothesis that the benefits of nucleotide supplementation for early head growth, a critical period for brain growth, have advantages for long-term cognitive development.
Pediatric Clinical Research Networks: Current Status, Common Challenges, and Potential Solutions
Authors: Slora Eric J. , Harris Donna L. , Bocian Alison B. , Wasserman Richard C.
Published: September 2010

OBJECTIVES:

The goals were (1) to describe and to characterize pediatric clinical research networks (PCRNs) in the United States and Canada, (2) to identify PCRN strengths and weaknesses, (3) to evaluate the potential for collaboration among PCRNs, and (4) to assess untapped potential interest in PCRN participation.

METHODS:

Data collection included (1) initial identification of PCRNs through an Internet search and word of mouth, (2) follow-up surveys of PCRN leaders, (3) telephone interviews with 21 PCRN leaders, and (4) a survey of 43 American Academy of Pediatrics specialty leaders regarding untapped interest in network research.

RESULTS:

Seventy exclusively pediatric networks were identified. Of those, specialty care networks constituted the largest proportion (50%), followed by primary care (28.6%) and disease-specific (21.4%) networks. A network profile survey (response rate: 74.3%) revealed that ∼90% held infrastructure funding. Nearly 75% of respondents viewed cross-network collaborations positively. In-depth telephone interviews corroborated the survey data, with cross-network collaboration mentioned consistently as a theme. American Academy of Pediatrics specialty leaders indicated that up to 30% of current nonparticipants might be interested in research involvement.

CONCLUSIONS:

Pediatric networks exist across the care continuum. Significant numbers of uninvolved practitioners may be interested in joining PCRNs. A strong majority of network leaders cited potential benefits from network collaboration.
Natural Killer Cell Lymphoma in a Pediatric Patient With Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Deneau Mark , Wallentine Jeremy , Guthery Stephen , O'Gorman Molly , Bohnsack John , Fluchel Mark , Bezzant John , Pohl John F.
Published: September 2010

Tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) antibody agents are an effective therapy for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD); however, because of the potential for immune suppression with these drugs, TNF-α antibody agents can increase the risk of malignancy. We report here the case of an 11-year-old boy who presented with bowel obstruction. He also had a history of periodic fever, aphthous stomatitis, and cervical adenitis (PFAPA). Intestinal inflammation continued and impaired his quality of life; he was diagnosed with IBD of an undetermined type (IBD-U). Symptoms improved with infliximab, but he developed elevated transaminase levels with hepatosplenomegaly 1 year after scheduled infusions. Skin biopsy revealed an atypical lymphoid infiltrate consistent with an Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-positive natural killer (NK)/T-cell lymphoma with associated hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis. Bone marrow biopsy revealed a similar EBV-positive lymphoid infiltrate consistent with an NK/T-cell lymphoma. EBV-positive tissue was present in gastrointestinal biopsies. Flow-cytometric analysis revealed an atypical, clonal NK-cell population, and biopsy specimens from several tissue sites tested positive for CD3, CD56, and CD30. The patient died soon after the diagnosis was made. This patient developed an EBV-driven malignancy while receiving infliximab. All patients with IBD who receive infliximab should be monitored for malignancy, especially young patients. This case underscores the need for future studies to better understand the biology of lymphoproliferative disorders.
Open-Label Glucocorticoids Modulate Dexamethasone Trial Results in Preterm Infants
Authors: Onland Wes , van Kaam Anton H. , De Jaegere Anne P. , Offringa Martin
Published: September 2010

CONTEXT:

Open-label glucocorticoids (OLGs) were often used in trials that investigated postnatal dexamethasone treatment in ventilated preterm infants.

OBJECTIVE:

To determine if OLG use modulates the dexamethasone treatment effect on mortality, bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), and neurodevelopmental outcome.

METHODS:

Electronic databases, abstracts from the Pediatric Academic Societies, and results of manual reference searches were used as data sources. Fifteen randomized controlled trials comparing dexamethasone with placebo in 721 ventilated preterm infants older than 7 days were identified. The interaction between dexamethasone treatment effect and OLG use was assessed by meta-regression analysis and subgroup meta-analysis according to the percentage of OLG use in the placebo group. Trials with a moderately early (7- to 14-day) or delayed (>3-week) treatment onset were analyzed separately.

RESULTS:

Moderately early, but not delayed, dexamethasone treatment significantly reduced mortality rates in trials with OLG use at <30% in the placebo arm. Meta-regression analysis revealed that this reduction was inversely related to OLG use. Increasing OLG use strengthened the positive effect of dexamethasone on BPD in the moderately early trials but attenuated the effect in the delayed-treatment trials. In trials with <30% OLG use, dexamethasone increased the risk for cerebral palsy in the delayed, but not the moderately early, treatment trials.

CONCLUSIONS:

When OLG use is taken into account moderately early dexamethasone treatment reduced mortality rates and the combined outcome mortality and BPD without increasing the risk of adverse neurodevelopmental outcome in ventilated preterm infants. A large randomized controlled trial is needed to confirm or refute these findings.
Chapter 7 or 13: Are Client or Lawyer Interests Paramount?
Authors: Lefgren Lars , McIntyre Frank L , Miller Michelle
Published: September 2010

Households often rely on professionals with specialized knowledge to make important financial decisions. In many cases, the professionals financial interests are at odds with those of the client. We explore this problem in the context of personal bankruptcy. OLS, fixed effects, and IV estimates all show that attorneys play a central role in determining whether households file under Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 of the bankruptcy code. We present evidence suggesting that some attorneys maximize profits by steering households into Chapter 13 bankruptcy even when the households objective financial benefits are low and the probability of case dismissal is high. An attorney-induced Chapter 13 filing increases household legal fees and reduces the probability of long-term debt relief.
Ultrastructural changes of renal epithelial cells during postmortem autolysis: Experimental work
Authors: Zdravkovic Miodrag
Published: September 2010

Introduction. Determination of schedule and certain predictable regularities of ultrastructural changes of proximal tubules epithet of kidney during post mortal interval would be very useful in forensic medicine when it is needed to determine the exact time of death. Material and methods. In this research there were 52 experimental animals, laboratory rats 'Wistar' type, which had been killed by choking. Four animals were selected to be a control group right after death, and 48 rats were divided into three equal groups: The rats were then fended on different temperatures: 8-10?C, 18-20?C, 28-30?C, respectively. In each and every group the rats were divided into four groups based on time interval after death: I, 2, 4 and 6 hours. There were four rats in each of those four subgroups. Preparations were analyzed and photographed using transmission electronic microscope. Results. It was found that pace of ultrastructure changes of proximal tubules epitel the cells of kidney was directly dependable on the duration of autolysis and temperatures that the body was stored at. First changes on nucleus, which are separation of external and internal membranes, occurred during the fourth hour of autolysis. Decomposition of external membrane occurred also during fourth hour on temperatures of 8-10?C and 18-20?C. When the body was stored at 30?C lysised decomposition of both membranes of nucleus and loss of natural nucleus shape were noticeable even during the first hour of autolysis. During the sixth hour nucleus membranes were almost lysised around the perimeter and that led to 'leaking' of chromatin in sarkoplasm. Mitochondria kept their normal shape six hours after death when the body was stored on 8-10?C and 18-20?C, and lysis and fragmentation of cristae were noticeable from the first hour of autolysis. Mitochondria lost their natural shape and inner composition during the first hour when the body was stored at 30?C. So, after the fourth hour only balloon like and light?ened remaining of mitochondria and fragmented pieces of their cristae were noticeable. Conclusion. All of the predictable changes found in morphological changes on subcell level of kidney tissue can be useful to determine very precisely the time of death. They can be also used to determine vital value of tissue and organs.
Cerebellar infarction in vascular territory of arteria cerebelli superior
Authors: Savic Dejan , Savic Ljiljana
Published: September 2010

Introduction. Cerebellar vascular diseases are focal cerebrovascular diseases in posterior circulation - vertebrobasilar system. The cerebellum is supplied by three main arteries arising from the vertebrobasilar system: arteria cerebelli inferior posterior, arteria cerebelli inferior anterior and arteria cerebelli superior. Cerebelar infarctions are rare but unpredictable disorders. The aim of this study was determination of main risk factors, clinical presentation and prognosis of the cerebellar infarctions in distal vascular territory of the arteria cerebelli superior. Material and methods. We evaluated 60 patients hospitalized after acute cerebellar infarction among other hospitalized patients in five year period. In 18 patients computerized tomography demonstrated infarction in distal vascular territory of the arteria cerebelli superior. All patients underwent clinical and other diagnostic investigations (computerized tomography, electrocardyography and standard blood tests) and were questioned by phone after finishing hospital treatment. Results. Cerebellar infarcts in distal vascular territory of arteria cerebeli superior was 30% of all cerebellar infarcts. The most frequent risk factor was hypertension (66. 7%). Symptomatology and clinical signs were heterogenous but the most frequent were instability (77.8%), vertigo (72.2%) and vomiting (55.6%) followed by ataxia of the limbs (77.8%) and the body (61.1%), nystagmus (55.6%) and disarthria (33.3%) in clinical presentation. All patients had good recovery in hospital and one year afterwards. Discussion. Infarctions in distribution of arteria cerebelli superior are rare and have multiple risk factors and various clinical features in majority of other studies as in this one. Mass effects are present in several studies but none in this one which reflects contraversions present in other published investigations. Conclusion. Cerebellar infarctions in vascular territory of arteria cerebelli superior have multiple risk factors, mostly heterogenous clinical presentations with predominance of instability, vertigo and vomiting with ataxia of the limbs and the body as well as nystagmus and disarthria in clinical presentation. The outcome and prognosis of disease is good despite the large amount of arteria cerebelli superior vascullar territory.
Influence of duration of menopause, anthropometric and hormonal parameters on metabolic syndrome
Authors: Simoncig-Netjasov Aleksandra , Vujovic Svetlana , Ivovic Miomira , Tancic-Gajic Milina , Drezgic Milka
Published: September 2010

Introduction. Hypoestrogenic status in the menopausal women shows a shift to a central android fat distribution and metabolic syndrome (MS). Related metabolic changes and hypertension increase the risk for cardiovascular (CV) diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of duration of menopause, anthropometric and hormonal parameters on metabolic syndrome. Material and methods. 50 obese women were examined with BMI=31.92?5.83 kg/m2, age 54.40?3.64, time since menopause 5.90?5.46 years. Control group consisted of 37 normal weight women with BMI=23.50?2.13 kg/m2, age 53.92?3.95, time since menopause 5.96?4.92 years. Anthropometric characteristics and blood pressure were measured. Blood was taken at 8 am for: fasting glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol, HDL, LDL, apolipoprotein A (ApoA), apolipoprotein B (ApoB), lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)), C-reactive protein (CRP), fibrinogen, FSH, LH, prolactin, estradiol, progesterone, testosterone and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG). Results. In obese women significant negative correlations were found for: BMI and HDL (p<0,05), waist and HDL (p<0,05), FSH and systolic blood pressure (p<0.01), FSH and fasting glucose (p<0,05), LH and waist (p<0.05), SHBG and fasting glucose (p<0.05). A positive correlation was found for lime since meno?pause and waist/hip ratio (p<0.05). In controls positive correlations were found for: waist/hip ratio and systolic and diastolic blood pressure (p<0,05), LH and HDL (p<0.05), estradiol and diastolic blood pressure (p<0,05). Negative correlations were detected for estradiol and waist (p<0,05), time since menopause and HDL (p<0,05). Conclusion. Gaining weight together with menopausal endocrine changes cause metabolic and hemodynamic imbalances, which contribute to risk for cardiovascular diseases.
Chlamydia trachomatis and urogenital mycoplasms in nonconococcal urethirits in men
Authors: Vesic Sonja , Vukicevic Jelica , Gvozdenovic Eleonora , Skiljevic Dusan , Janosevic Slobodanka , Medenica Ljiljana
Published: September 2010

Introduction. Nongonococcal urethritis is the most common sexually transmitted infection in men, with vast majority of the etiological agents such as Chlamydia trachomatis, followed by urogenital mycoplasmas. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis, Ureaplasma urealyticum and Mycoplasma hominis in nongonococcal urethritis in men, and to examine infections associated with these agents. Material and methods. 299 sexually active, heterosexual men with nongonococcal urethritis were included into the study. Urethral samples were taken with a dacron swab placed into the urethra up to 2-3 cm. The Direct immunojluorescence tehnique was performed for identification of Chlamydia trachomatis. Ureaplasma urealyticum and Mycoplasma hominis were detected with Mycoplasma 1ST assay. Results. Chlamydia trachomatis was detected in 22.75%, Uraeplasma urealyticum in 21.08% and Mycoplasma hominis in 8.02% cases. We found no significant differences in prevalence between Chlamydia trachomatis and Ureaplasma urealyticym (p>0.05). Monoinjections were found in 51.85% with significantly higher rate (p<0.01) than associated infections (11.70%). Among associated infections, coinfection of Chlamydia trahomatis and Ureaplasma urealyticum was predominant. Association of Chlamydia trachomatis with urogenital mycoplasmas was significantly higher (p<0.05) than the one between Ureaplasma urealyticum and Mycoplasma hominis. In 36.45% patients no patogenic microorganisms were detected. Conclusion. These results confirmed the etiological role of Chlamydia trachomatis and urogenital mycoplasmas in nongonococcal urethritis with prevalence of 51.85% in monoinfections and 11.70% in associated infections. In 36.45% of cases the etiology of urethritis was not elucidated. These results suggest that more sensitive diagnostic tool should be applied when searching for the detailed etiology of nongonococcal urethritis.
Digital morphometric study of the extrasulcal surface of the cingulate gyrus in man
Authors: Spasojevic Goran , Malobabic Slobodan , Stojanovic Zlatan , Jandric Slavica , Djordjevic Milena
Published: September 2010

Introduction. The frequency of different morphological types and extrasulcal (visible) surface area of the cingulate gyms, were measured and analyzed in order to obtain more precise data about morphology, right/left and sex differences in the human brain. Material and methods. The study included 42 brains (84 hemispheres) from persons of both sexes and of different age (26 males, 16 females, 20-65 years old), without neuropathological changes. After fixation in 10% formaline (3-4 weeks) and removal of meninges the brains were photographed under standard conditions by digital camera. Following determination of morphological type, regions of interest of cingulate gyrus were determined in stereotactic system system of coordinates and the extrasulcal surface was measured by digital AutoCAD planimetry. Results and discussion. Three basic morphological types of cingulate gyrus were found: the continuous type (34.5%), segmented type (35.7%) and double paralel type (29.8%). There was no statistically significant difference in the frequency of morphological types related to the side (right/left) or sex (p>0.05). The area of extrasulcal cortex of cingulate gyrus was statistically significantly (p<0.O5) larger on the left hemispheres (for 1.13 cm) than on the right (left: 14.58 cm; right: 13.45 cm. The extrasulcal surface of the left cingulate gyrus was significantly larger (p0.05) in males (males 15.9 cm: females - 13.6 cm), while for the right cingulate gyrus this difference was not significant. Conclusion. Morphometry indicated sex and right/left differences of extrasulcal surface area of the human cingulate gyrus. However, the morphological analysis itself did not indicate corresponding differences, suggesting complexity of the problem of sex dimorphism and of right/left asymmetries in the domain of limbic cortex.
Medical abortion: Modern method for termination of pregnancy
Authors: Kapamadzija Aleksandra , Vukelic Jelka , Bjelica Artur , Kopitovic Vesna
Published: September 2010

Introduction. Modern methods of medically induced abortions are being used in many countries all over the world. These methods are safe and effective when used in an appropriate way. Drugs used for medical abortion. The most widely used regimens for drug induced abortions include antiprogestogen mifepriston followed by administration of a synthetic prostaglandin analogue - gemeprost vaginally or misoprostol orally or vaginally. When used for abortions up to 9 and 7 weeks of pregnancy, this method has efficacy up to 98%. The regimen between 9 and 12 completed weeks is still under investigation. Methods for medical abortion after 12 completed weeks since last menstrual period include several regimens and medications - combination of mifepriston and repeated doses of misoprostol, misoprostol or gemeprost alone, methotrexate, synthetic prostaglandin analogues, oxytocin and some others. Medical abortions at our Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Novi Sad, Clinical Center Vojvodine, Serbia. Medical abortions in the second trimester were introduced at our Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Novi Sad, Serbia, in early 1980s using prostaglandin analogues. This method was improved in year 2000 introducing two dinoprostone gels intracervically/extraamnially instead of just one, for cervical preparation before intramuscular application of carboprost thrometamine, which led to significantly shorter abortion interval. During the years 2003/2004 we took part successfully in one of the multicentric WHO projects for investigating new regimens on early medical abortions with mifepriston and misoprostol. Conclusions. Modern methods of medical abortions are safe and effective for termination of unwanted pregnancies in the first and second trimester.
Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 testing in breast cancer
Authors: Ivkovic-Kapicl Tatjana , Knezevic-Usaj Slavica
Published: September 2010

Introduction. Testing for human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 in breast cancer at the time of primary diagnosis is now the standard of care. Positivity for epidermal growth factor receptor-2 in breast cancer is a prognostic factor regarding tumor aggressiveness and a predictive factor for response to Herceptin. Accurate assessment is essential to ensure that all patients who may benefit from Herceptin are correctly identified. Assay method. The principal testing methods used for determination of epider?mal growth factor receptor-2 status are immunohistochemistry for protein over expression and in situ hybridization using either fluorescence or a chromogen. Immunohistochemical testing method allows identification of epidermal growth factor receptor-2 positive patients (3+) who may benefit from Herceptin therapy, whereas negative patients (0/1+) can be excluded. A proportion of specimens defined as equivocal by immunohistochemistry (2+) must be retested by in situ hybridization to determine their status. Chromogen in situ hybridization is a method for determination of gene amplification using a peroxidase-based chromogenic reaction, which can be viewed using a conventional bright field microscope and it determines the actual degree of gene amplification. Various factors can affect the results achieved with these assays, including the assay antibody/probe, the methodology and the experience of personnel. Many countries implemented national testing guidelines in an attempt to standardize testing procedures and make results more accurate. Conclusion. The key point underlined by this review is that whatever method is used to test HER2 status, the technology must be validated first, and there must be regular internal and external quality assurance procedures.
Correlation of sera concentra tions of thyroperoxidase a utoantibodies measured by two radioimmunoassays
Authors: Vrndic Olgica , Zivancevic-Simonovic Snezana , Dimitrijevic Ljiljana , Djukic Aleksandar , Arsenijevic Nebojsa
Published: September 2010

Introduction. Thyroid peroxidase-specific autoantibodies (TPO Abs) are mostly measured in patients with autoimmune thyroid diseases. The aim of this study was to compare TPO Ab concentrations measured by two radioimmunoassays. Material and methods. Our investigation included 38 patients. Sera concentrations of TPO Abs were measured by using Cis biointernational (France) and Immunotech (Czech Republic) assays. Results. Concentrations obtained by two assays were extensively different. The values measured by Cis biointernational assay were higher than ones obtained by Immunotech assay. The statistical arrangement of results showed the direct correlation between the two assays, with the coefficient of agreement R=0.6239 (p<0.001). The analysis of relative values (ratio of measured and upper limit values given by the manufacturer) demonstrated the statistically significant difference (p=0.003) between values measured by Cis biointernational (18.94?37.22) and by Immunotech assay (4.22?8.22) concerning the distinction between normal and raised concentrations of TPO Abs. The agreement of results (enhanced or normal TPO Ab concentrations in both tests) was shown in 30 sera samples (78.95%), but in residual 8 sera (21.05%) normal TPO Ab concentrations were obtained by Immunotech, and enchanced by Cis biointernational assay. There is no difference in capability of distinction between normal and pathological results between the two tests (?2=3.484, p>0.05). The highest concentration of TPO Ab measured by Cis biointernational assay was not the highest one in Immunotech assay, which might be a reflection of different specificity of antibodies used in two diagnostic tests. Conclusion. TPO Ab concentrations obtained by Cis biointernational and Immunotech assays are very different. In several sera samples, normal concentrations of TPO autoantibodies were obtained by Immunotech assay and enhanced by Cis biointernational assay. The highest value obtained by one is not the highest value measured by another assay we used.
Methods of improving resolution on a heterodyne acousto-optic vibrometer
Authors: Ngoi B. K. A. , Venkatakrishnan K. , Teng J. L. , Lim L. S. K.
Published: September 2010

In this article, two approaches for improving the resolution of an acousto-optic vibrometer were developed and investigated. Both methods were able to double the resolution of first order optical system. In the first method, the resolution of the system was improved using a second order diffraction beam instead of first order in the measurement layout. The second method applied multiple first order beams, which are the positive and negative first order beams. In addition, an optical system was designed to measure the wavelength of the acoustic wave using the first and second order to verify the improvement in measurement resolution.
Simulation-based design of laser-based free forming process control
Authors: Koomsap P. , Prabhu V. V. , Schriempf J. T. , Reutzel E. W.
Published: September 2010

Conventional machining processes create high value products with high production cost that is often a result of long processing time and excessive waste materials. A laser-based, free-forming process, on the other hand, permits the manufacture of products with little to no waste by direct depositing material layer-by-layer onto the part. As a result, production costs are significantly reduced. However, because these parts are created layer-by-layer, their quality must be closely controlled during the process to avoid the costs incurred in producing defective products. Furthermore, incomplete products will be rejected when the process is terminated. A process controller, therefore, is necessary to perform this process with little or no defects. This article presents a simulation-based design of a laser-based, free-forming process controller. The relationships are defined between process characteristics and three process parameters: laser power, translation speed, and powder flow rate. These relationships are then used to design the process controller. Simulation results from each step are also presented.
A low diffraction laser beam as applied to polymer ablation
Authors: Lu Xuanhui , Yao Y. Lawrence , Chen Kai
Published: September 2010

A low diffraction beam is obtained by altering the existing resonator of a CO2 laser using a special phase plate. The phase plate is designed based on the boundary diffraction principle and is implemented on the resonator rear mirror. It is found that the low diffraction beam has a smaller M2 value than that of a Gaussian beam. The effects of the improved beam quality on a laser ablation process are investigated using a polymeric material. A theoretical model is provided to predict the laser ablated hole profile and penetration depth. The theoretical results are in agreement with the experimental measurements. Both the experimental and theoretical results show that the low diffraction beam has marked advantages over the Gaussian beam in ablation-dominated material removal processes in terms of larger depth and smaller taper at the same average power level.
The use of a high-power laser to provide an electrical path of low resistance
Authors: Dowden John , Kapadia Phiroze
Published: September 2010

Recent experiments have shown that a laser beam may be used to guide the path of an electric arc over considerable distances. Simple physical ideas can be used to describe this process and obtain estimates of laser power needed and the characteristics of the resulting arc. The process is analogous to a laser-supported arc except that the laser provides the dominant ionization mechanism; the result is a region of low resistance along the path defined by the laser beam. A sufficiently intense laser beam can create an electrical path of low resistance over a distance of the order of meters in air at atmospheric pressure. The intensity of the beam is critical. The arrangement allows the laser to determine the path of the electrical current and might be used as a circuit element in large-scale devices, or as a means of preventing the buildup of excessive electrostatic charge, or of discharging it in a controlled manner before it becomes hazardous.
Update of national standard for the safe use of lasers in educational institutions
Authors: Seeber Fred P.
Published: September 2010

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI), Z136 Executive Committee, has been reviewing and modifying a new draft standard developed by the Z136.5 subcommittee for Laser Safety in Educational Institutions. The standard is expected to be published by the Laser Institute of America (Z136 secretariat) in early 2000. Major areas covered are: (1) Evaluating and minimizing hazards associated with laser radiation in educational institutions from elementary to university level. (2) The role of the laser safety officer in educational institutions. (3) Discussion of laser hazards, safety practices and controls at all grade levels. (4) Safe methods for using lasers in: laboratory experiments, classroom and lecture hall demonstrations, and science fair exhibits.
Draft ANSI standard for the evaluation of laser eye protection
Authors: Sheehy James B.
Published: September 2010

The first commercially available laser eye protection was based on absorptive technology. As the name implies, the incident energy is absorbed and then dissipated as heat. Product testing consisted of assessing the optical properties of the eyewear (optical power, haze, distortion, abrasion resistance, etc.), optical density, potential for saturable absorption, and damage threshold. Common of absorptive technologies, the absorption bandwidth was broad with considerable secondary absorption. The unwanted absorption resulted in low transmittance and high spectral distortion. As the usage of lasers spread and the number of possible wavelengths increased, R&D efforts in multiwavelength laser eye protection expanded to explore alternative filter technologies such as holograms or dielectric stacks. The dielectric equivalent of the early neodymium protection had 80% transmittance as opposed to the 45% of the absorptive eyewear. The angular sensitivity, however, required that the bandwidth increased to prevent the filter from shifting off the critical wavelength for off-axis exposures. This new type of eye protection dramatically increased the demands and rigor of performance testing. No longer could one assess just the critical area. Now the required angular protection had to be determined. The required angular coverage was a function of the eye relief, pupil diameter, range of eye movements, and range of interpupillary distances. If the filter is eye centered, and as implied, alignment and fit critical, then one also needs to determine how the filter performs as misalignment is introduced. The safety zone and fit parameters determine the number of points and angular coverage at each point which must be measured to assess the protection offered. This is all in addition to the standard optical tests required to certify a product. Depending on the number of wavelengths, filter complexity, and surface area the time and cost of testing can increase dramatically.
An analysis of broken-layer characteristics in laser alloying for coinage applications
Authors: Liu Z. , Watkins K. G. , Steen W. M. , Hatherley P. G.
Published: September 2010

In laser surface alloying the distribution of alloying elements is mainly attributable to the convective behavior of the melt pool which is influenced by a number of factors including laser power density, size of the melt pool, interaction time, beam profile and the material physical properties. Any variation of the treatment conditions can change the flow pattern and the distribution of alloying elements in the melt pool. The laser alloying process reported in this article includes the steps of predeposition of multiple layers of different metals and subsequent alloying of these layers using a high power CO2 laser. A visible distinction between the alloyed and unalloyed regions or a difference in other physical properties is obtained. The work involves a study of the alloying types and the influence of the laser operating parameters and the thermal properties of the materials. It was found that properties such as the difference of the melting points between the coating layer and the substrate materials and thermal diffusivity (or thermal conductivity) of the substrate materials played an important role in the process. Laser control variables required for localized alloying for different substrates and coatings types were determined. The influence of both thermal properties and laser control variables on alloy types was investigated. A mathematical model was developed to establish an understanding of the process and the proper selection of the materials combinations required to achieve specific alloying types for coinage applications. Initial work on coin validation has shown promising results for automatic recognition of laser treated coins.
Surface depression and ablation for a weld pool in material processing: A mathematical model
Authors: Solana Pablo , Kapadia Phiroze , Dowden John
Published: September 2010

In the process of cw laser welding the action of the laser generates a weld pool in the work piece which undergoes translation. In the interests of simplicity the effect of translation on the shape of the weld pool is neglected, as well as the flow of liquid within the pool. A small top part of the free surface of the weld pool in the form of a circular spot is subjected to the action of the laser beam. The heat conduction equation is solved in the weld pool to determine the temperature of its free surface. The liquid free surface of the weld pool is subject to a process of quasi-equilibrium ablation as an evaporation front moves into air under ambient conditions above the surface in the laser case. A Knudsen layer exists above the molten region and a discontinuous change of temperature, pressure and density occurs across the evaporation front with the flow of hot vapor propagating as a shock wave into the air above. This ablation process is modeled and the surface depression calculated. With some modifications similar considerations apply to the case of electric arcs.
Removal of embedded contamination in chlorinated rubber coatings using a portable high power diode laser
Authors: Schmidt Marc J. J. , Li Lin , Spencer Julian T.
Published: September 2010

In this article we report the process characteristics for removing embedded contamination in white chlorinated rubber (CR) coatings from concrete surfaces utilizing a portable 120 W continuous wave diode laser operating at 810 nm wavelength and applying a cylindrical focusing system. Coating layers of 350 μm thickness have been prepared to industrial standards. A contaminant simulant ZrO2 layer was embedded in the coating. The coatings were subsequently removed by the laser with the aid of oxygen process gas. The reflectivity properties of the CR material from the visible to the near infrared wavelengths, as well as their behavior under high temperatures have been examined with a normal incidence reflectance spectrometer. Even though the reflection coefficient of white CR at 810 nm is almost 100%, a drop in reflectivity after a brief period of laser irradiation explains the initiation and the sustaining of the combustion process and the subsequent coating removal. The sizes of the generated airborne particles are measured and interpreted. The removal quality and efficiency dependence on laser parameters are assessed and discussed, together with safety aspects regarding portable laser paint removal process. An attempt is made to interpret the mechanisms involved in the removal process. The remaining surfaces were then analyzed via optical microscopy, by energy dispersive analysis of x rays and total reflectance x-ray fluorescence, to establish the effectiveness of the embedded contaminant simulant removal.
Synthesis, crystal structure, and 1H NMR spectra of a chloride-bridged chain complex of dinuclear ruthenium(II,III) 3,4,5-tri(ethoxy-d 5)benzoate
Authors: Ishida Hideaki , Handa Makoto , Ikeue Takahisa , Taguchi Jun , Mikuriya Masahiro
Published: September 2010

Deuterated dinuclear ruthenium(II,III) 3,4,5-tri(ethoxy-d 5)benzoate, [Ru2{3,4,5-(C2D5O)3C6H2-COO}4Cl]n, was synthesized by a reaction of [Ru2(C2H5COO)4Cl]n and 3,4,5-tri(ethoxy-d 5)benzoic acid and characterized by single-crystal X-ray analysis as well as IR, UV-VIS, and 1H NMR spectra, and compared with those of the undeuterated complex [Ru2{3,4,5-(C2H5O)3C6H2COO}4Cl]n. Single-crystal X-ray analysis showed that chloride ligands bridge the dinuclear ruthenium(II,III) units at the axial positions to form a zigzag chain molecule with the Ru1-Cl-Ru2 angle of 123.82(4)°. 1H NMR spectra in CD2Cl2 displayed a broad signal attributable to o-H atoms on the phenyl rings of the benzoate ligands from approximately δ = 23 to δ = 32 at 25°C and several signals from approximately δ = −50 to δ = 50 at −80°C. These spectra show the preservation of the polymeric or oligomeric chain structure in dichloromethane, which is supported by the solution behavior confirmed by the UV-VIS spectra and electronic conductance.
The composition and structure of a natural beech forest in the "Zamkowa Góra" reserve near Kartuzy
Authors: Karczmarski Jan , Kunz Łukasz
Published: September 2010

Budowa i struktura naturalnego drzewostanu bukowego w rezerwacie "Zamkowa Góra" kolo Kartuz
The impact of speech material on speech judgement in children with and without cleft palate
Authors: Klintö Kristina , Salameh Eva‐Kristina , Svensson Henry , Lohmander Anette
Published: September 2010

Background: The chosen method of speech assessment, including type of speech material, may affect speech judgement in children with cleft palate.

Aim: To assess the effect of different speech materials on speech judgement in 5‐year‐old children born with or without cleft palate, as well as the reliability of materials by means of intra‐ and inter‐transcriber agreement of consonant transcriptions.

Methods & Procedures: Altogether 40 children were studied, 20 born with cleft palate, 20 without. The children were audio recorded at 5 years of age. Speech materials used were: single‐word naming, sentence repetition (both developed for cleft palate speech assessment), retelling of a narrative and conversational speech. The samples were phonetically transcribed and inter‐ and intra‐transcriber agreement was calculated. Percentage correct consonants (PCC), percentage correct places (PCP), percentage correct manners (PCM), and percentage active cleft speech characteristics (CSC) were assessed. In addition, an analysis of phonological simplification processes (PSP) was performed.

Outcome & Results: The PCC and CSC results were significantly more accurate in word naming than in all other speech materials in the children with cleft palate, who also achieved more accurate PCP results in word naming than in sentence repetition and conversational speech. Regarding PCM and PSP, performance was significantly more accurate in word naming than in conversational speech. Children without cleft palate did better, irrespective of the speech material. The medians of intra‐ and inter‐transcriber agreement were good in both groups and all speech materials. The closest agreement in the cleft palate group was seen in word naming and the weakest in the retelling task.

Conclusion & Implications: The results indicate that word naming is the most reliable speech material when the purpose is to assess the best speech performance of a child with cleft palate. If the purpose is to assess connected speech, sentence repetition is a reliable and also valid speech material, with good transcriber agreement and equally good articulation accuracy as in retelling and conversational speech. For typically developing children without a cleft palate, the chosen speech material appears not to affect speech judgement.
Metal foams – towards microcellular materials
Authors: García-Moreno Francisco , Mukherjee Manas , Solórzano Eusebio , Banhart John
Published: September 2010

Various techniques to manufacture low-density metallic foams containing sub-millimetre or even micrometre-sized pores are discussed and first trial experiments presented. Three strategies are evaluated: use of an intrinsic blowing agent, foaming under high pressure and foam control by mechanical pressure manipulation. In all three cases, average pore diameters well below 1 mm could be achieved for some aluminium or zinc-based foams while keeping the relative density in a range between 20 % and 50 % of the full metal density.
Characterization of the microstructure and damage mechanisms in a Ti6Al4V alloy modified with 1 wt.% B
Authors: Poletti C. , Requena G. , Tolnai D. , Cloetens P. , Steiger-Thirsfeld A.
Published: September 2010

Powder metallurgy produced Ti-6Al-4V-1B-0.1C is a modification of the Ti-6Al-4V commercial titanium alloy. TiB whiskers precipitate in the Ti64 matrix during the solidification of the powders before consolidation. The whiskers present two size classes due to the solidification rate and satelliting effect. Scanning electron and light optical microscopy were used to characterize the morphology, distribution and damage of TiB before and after hot deformation. These results were compared with those obtained by parallel beam and magnified synchrotron holotomography, and by focused ion beam tomography. The damage produced during hot deformation was provoked by debonding and cracks at the larger TiB particles. Simulations of the compression tests using finite element analysis were carried out to identify strain and stress localizations.
Tensile deformation behavior of AA5083-H111 at cold and warm temperatures
Authors: Ozturk Fahrettin , Toros Serkan , Kilic Suleyman
Published: September 2010

The effects of strain rate and temperature on the deformation behavior of hardened 5083-H111 aluminum magnesium alloy sheet were investigated by performing uniaxial tensile tests at various strain rates from 0.0083 to 0.16 s−1 and temperatures from – 100 to 300 °C. Results from the prescribed test ranges indicate that the formability of this material at cold and warm temperatures is better than at room temperature. The improvement in formability at cold temperatures is principally due to the strain hardening of the material. However, the improvement at warm temperature and low strain rate is specifically due to the high strain rate sensitivity characteristic of the material. Results indicate that this alloy should be formed at temperatures higher than 200 °C and at low strain rates.