bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Image Reconstruction Based on Homotopy Perturbation Inversion Method for Electrical Impedance Tomography
Authors: Wang Jing , Han Bo
Published: December 2013

The image reconstruction for electrical impedance tomography (EIT) mathematically is a typed nonlinear ill-posed inverse problem. In this paper, a novel iteration regularization scheme based on the homotopy perturbation technique, namely, homotopy perturbation inversion method, is applied to investigate the EIT image reconstruction problem. To verify the feasibility and effectiveness, simulations of image reconstruction have been performed in terms of considering different locations, sizes, and numbers of the inclusions, as well as robustness to data noise. Numerical results indicate that this method can overcome the numerical instability and is robust to data noise in the EIT image reconstruction. Moreover, compared with the classical Landweber iteration method, our approach improves the convergence rate. The results are promising.
Calcium Oxide Derived from Waste Shells of Mussel, Cockle, and Scallop as the Heterogeneous Catalyst for Biodiesel Production
Authors: Buasri Achanai , Chaiyut Nattawut , Loryuenyong Vorrada , Worawanitchaphong Phatsakon , Trongyong Sarinthip
Published: December 2013

The waste shell was utilized as a bioresource of calcium oxide (CaO) in catalyzing a transesterification to produce biodiesel (methyl ester). The economic and environmen‐friendly catalysts were prepared by a calcination method at 700–1,000°C for 4 h. The heterogeneous catalysts were characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), X‐ray fluorescence (XRF), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and the Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller (BET) method. The effects of reaction variables such as reaction time, reaction temperature, methanol/oil molar ratio, and catalyst loading on the yield of biodiesel were investigated. Reusability of waste shell catalyst was also examined. The results indicated that the CaO catalysts derived from waste shell showed good reusability and had high potential to be used as biodiesel production catalysts in transesterification of palm oil with methanol.
Designing a Fresh Food Supply Chain Network: An Application of Nonlinear Programming
Authors: Tsao Yu-Chung
Published: December 2013

In today’s business environment, many fresh food companies have complex supply networks to distribute their products. For example, agricultural products are distributed through a multiechelon supply chain which includes agricultural association, agricultural produce marketing corporations (APMCs), markets, and so forth. In this paper a fresh produce supply network model is designed to determine the optimal service area for APMCs, the replenishment cycle time of APMCs, and the freshness-keeping effort, while maximizing the total profit. The objective is to address the integrated facility location, inventory allocation, and freshness-keeping effort problems. This paper develops an algorithm to solve the nonlinear problem, provides numerical analysis to illustrate the proposed solution procedure, and discusses the effects of various system parameters on the decisions and total profits. A real case of an agricultural product supply chain in Taiwan is used to verify the model. Results of this study can serve as a reference for business managers and administrators.
Synchronization of Neural Networks with Mixed Time Delays under Information Constraints
Authors: Yang Dedong , Sun He-Xu , Yang Peng , Du Tai-Hang
Published: December 2013

This paper investigates the synchronization problem of neural networks with mixed time delays under information constrains. The designed synchronization scheme is built on the framework of hybrid systems. Besides including nonuniform sampling, some other characteristics, such as quantization, transmission-induced delays, and data packet dropouts, are also considered. The sufficient condition that depended on network characteristics is obtained to guarantee the remote asymptotical synchronization of neural networks with mixed time delays. A numerical example is given to illustrate the validity of the proposed method.
Synthesis and Downconversion Emission Property ofYb2O3:Eu3+Nanosheets and Nanotubes
Authors: Qian Chao , Zeng Tianmei , Liu Hongrong
Published: December 2013

Ytterbium oxide (Yb2O3) nanocrystals with different Eu3+(1%, 2%, 5%, and 10%) doped concentrations were synthesized by a facile hydrothermal method, subsequently by calcination at 700°C. The crystal phase, size, and morphology of prepared samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The results show that the as-prepared Yb2O3nanocrystals with sheet- and tube-like shape have cubic phase structure. The Eu3+doped Yb2O3nanocrystals were revealed to have good down conversion (DC) property and intensity of the DC luminescence can be modified by Eu3+contents. In our experiment the 1% Eu3+doped Yb2O3nanocrystals showed the strongest DC luminescence among the obtained Yb2O3nanocrystals.
Fast Analysis of Water Samples for Trace Amount of Crystal Violet Dye Based on Solid Phase Extraction Using Nanoporous SBA‐3 prior to Determination by Fiber Optic‐Linear Array Detection Spectrophotometry
Authors: Azarkohan Azam , Shemirani Farzaneh , Alvand Mahrouz
Published: December 2013

A solid phase preconcentration procedure using SBA‐3 nanosorbent for the fast separation and preconcentration of crystal violet (CV) in water samples by fiber optic‐linear array detection spectrophotometry (FO‐LADS) is presented. Experimental parameters including pH, sample volume, amount of sorbent, type, volume, and concentration of eluent that affect the recovery of crystal violet have been optimized. Under optimized experimental conditions, analytical parameters including limit of detection, linear working range, and relative standard deviation have also been determined. A preconcentration factor of 200 was achieved in this method. In the initial solution, the detection limit for CV was found as 1.3 μg L−1. Under optimal conditions maximum adsorption capacity was obtained as 344.83 mg g−1. Also, the relative standard deviation was less than ±1.3% (n = 5). The presented procedure was applied to the determination of crystal violet in water samples (fish, fish farming water, and river water) with good results.
Deficiency of 25-Hydroxyvitamin D and Dyslipidemia in Indian Subjects
Authors: Chaudhuri Jaydip Ray , Mridula K. Rukmini , Anamika Alluri , Boddu Demudu Babu , Misra Pradeep Kumar , Lingaiah A. , Balaraju Banda , Bandaru Vcs Srinivasarao
Published: December 2013

Background. Vitamin D deficiency is widespread throughout the world. Several reports have incriminated vitamin D deficiency as the cause of rickets, osteomalacia, and other chronic diseases. Recent studies have suggested a possible link between deficiency of 25-hydroxyvitamin D and dyslipidemia.Aim. To investigate the association between 25-hydroxyvitamin D deficiency and dyslipidemia in Indian subjects.Methodology. We recruited 150 asymptomatic consecutive subjects from patients’ attendees at the Departments of Neurology and Medicine in Yashoda Hospital, Hyderabad, India. Study period was from October 2011 to March 2012. All subjects underwent 25-hydroxyvitamin D assay by chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay, fasting blood sugar and lipid profile, calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, and C-reactive protein (CRP).Results. Out of 150 subjects, men were 82 (54.6%), and mean age was 49.4 (±15.6) years. Among risk factors, hypertension was noted in 63/150 (42%), 25-hydroxyvitamin D deficiency in 59/150 (39.3%), diabetes in 45/150 (30%), dyslipidemia in 60 (40%), smoking in 35/150 (23.3%), and alcoholism in 27/150 (18%). Deficiency of 25-hydroxyvitamin D was significantly associated with dyslipidemia (P=0.0001), mean serum glucose (P=0.0002) mean CRP (P=0.04), and mean alkaline phosphatase (P=0.01). Multivariate analysis showed that 25-hydroxyvitamin D deficiency was independently associated with dyslipidemia (odds ratio: 1.9; 95% CI : 1.1–3.5).Conclusions. We found that deficiency of 25-hydroxyvitamin D was independently associated with dyslipidemia in Indian subjects.
Driver Sleepiness Detection System Based on Eye Movements Variables
Authors: Jin Lisheng , Niu Qingning , Jiang Yuying , Xian Huacai , Qin Yanguang , Xu Meijiao
Published: December 2013

Driver sleepiness is a hazard state, which can easily lead to traffic accidents. To detect driver sleepiness in real time, a novel driver sleepiness detection system using support vector machine (SVM) based on eye movements is proposed. Eye movements data are collected using SmartEye system in a driving simulator experiment. Characteristic parameters, which include blinking frequency, gaze direction, fixation time, and PERCLOS, are extracted based on the data using a statistical method. 13 sleepiness detection models including 12 specific models and 1 general model are developed based on SVM. Experimental results demonstrate that eye movements can be used to detect driver sleepiness in real time. The detecting accuracy of the specific models significantly exceeds the general model ( P < 0.001), suggesting that individual differences are an important consideration when building detection algorithms for different drivers.
Wind Speed Estimation: Incorporating Seasonal Data Using Markov Chain Models
Authors: Karatepe Selin , Corscadden Kenneth W.
Published: December 2013

This paper presents a novel approach for accurately modeling and ultimately predicting wind speed for selected sites when incomplete data sets are available. The application of a seasonal simulation for the synthetic generation of wind speed data is achieved using the Markov chain Monte Carlo technique with only one month of data from each season. This limited data model was used to produce synthesized data that sufficiently captured the seasonal variations of wind characteristics. The model was validated by comparing wind characteristics obtained from time series wind tower data from two countries with Markov chain Monte Carlo simulations, demonstrating that one month of wind speed data from each season was sufficient to generate synthetic wind speed data for the related season.
Effects of Acupuncture on CCL2 and CXCL8 Expression and the Subset of uNK Cells in Rats with Embryo Implantation Failure
Authors: Gao Weina , Tang Xiao , Chen Zhenyan , Guo Yue , Wang Lijun , Zhang Mingmin , Huang Guangying
Published: December 2013

The present study was designed to investigate the efficacy and mechanism of acupuncture treatment on embryo implantation failure in rats. The pregnant rats were randomized into normal group (N), implantation failure group (M), acupuncture treatment group (A), and progestin treatment group (W). The embryo implantation failure model was established by mifepristone. Efficacy of acupuncture treatment was evaluated by the number of implanted embryos. The expression of CCL2 and CXCL8 and the subset of uterine natural killer cells in the endometrium were detected. We demonstrated that the number of implanted embryos was dramatically reduced after mifepristone (M group) treatment, while the acupuncture (A group) and progestin (W group) treatments significantly rescued impaired embryo implantation. The protein and mRNA expressions of CCL2 and CXCL8 were significantly reduced by mifepristone treatment, but the attenuated expression of CCL2 and CXCL8 was markedly reversed by acupuncture or progestin treatment. More importantly, acupuncture and progestin could markedly increase the subset of uNK cells in rats with embryo implantation failure. These evidences suggest that acupuncture is able to modulate the endometrial immune microenvironment and thus improve embryo implantation in pregnant rats, which provides solid experimental evidence for the curative effect of acupuncture treatment on infertility.
Global Dynamics of a Predator-Prey Model with Stage Structure and Delayed Predator Response
Authors: Wang Lili , Xu Rui
Published: December 2013

A Holling type II predator-prey model with time delay and stage structure for the predator is investigated. By analyzing the corresponding characteristic equations, the local stability of each of feasible equilibria of the system is discussed. The existence of Hopf bifurcations at the coexistence equilibrium is established. By means of the persistence theory on infinite dimensional systems, it is proven that the system is permanent if the coexistence equilibrium exists. By using Lyapunov functionals and LaSalle’s invariance principle, it is shown that the predator-extinction equilibrium is globally asymptotically stable when the coexistence equilibrium is not feasible, and the sufficient conditions are obtained for the global stability of the coexistence equilibrium.
Stability Analysis of State Saturation 2D Discrete Time-Delay Systems Based on F-M Model
Authors: Chen Dongyan , Yu Hui
Published: December 2013

The problem of stability analysis is investigated for a class of state saturation two-dimensional (2D) discrete time-delay systems described by the Fornasini-Marchesini (F-M) model. The delay is allowed to be a bounded time-varying function. By constructing the delay-dependent 2D discrete Lyapunov functional and introducing a nonnegative scalarβ, a sufficient condition is proposed to guarantee the global asymptotic stability of the addressed systems. Subsequently, the criterion is converted into the linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) which can be easily tested by using the standard numerical software. Finally, two numerical examples are given to show the effectiveness of the proposed stability criterion.
Online Fatigue-Monitoring Models with Consideration of Temperature Dependent Properties and Varying Heat Transfer Coefficients
Authors: Zhang HengLiang , Liu Shi , Xie Danmei , Xiong Yangheng , Yu Yanzhi , Zhou Yan , Guo Rui
Published: December 2013

Thermal stress failure caused by alternating operational loads is the one of important damage mechanisms in the nuclear power plants. To evaluate the thermal stress responses, the Green’s function approach has been generally used. In this paper, a method to consider varying heat transfer coefficients when using the Green’s function method is proposed by using artificial parameter method and superposition principle. Time dependent heat transfer coefficient has been treated by using a modified fluid temperature and a constant heat transfer coefficient. Three-dimensional temperature and stress analyses reflecting entire geometry and heat transfer properties are required to obtain accurate results. An efficient and accurate method is confirmed by comparing its result with corresponding 3D finite element analysis results for a reactor pressure vessel (RPV). From the results, it is found that the temperature dependent material properties and varying heat transfer coefficients can significantly affect the peak stresses and the proposed method can reduce computational efforts with satisfactory accuracy.
Morphological Characterization of Cherry Rootstock Candidates Selected from Central and East Black Sea Regions in Turkey
Authors: Koc Aysen , Celik Zumrut , Akbulut Mustafa , Bilgener Sukriye , Ercisli Sezai , Gunes Mehmet , Gercekcioglu Resul , Esitken Ahmet
Published: December 2013

The use of rootstocks particularly for sweet cherry cultivars is of great importance for successful and sustainable production. Choosing the right cherry rootstocks is just as important as choosing the right cultivar. In this study, 110 sweet cherry, 30 sour cherry, and 41 mahaleb types displaying rootstock potential for sweet cherry cultivars were selected from Central and East Black Sea Regions in Turkey. The morphologic characteristics of the studied genotypes were compared with the standard clonal rootstocks PHL‐A, MaxMa 14, Montmorency, Weiroot 158, Gisela 5, Gisela 6, and SL 64. A total of 42 morphological UPOV characteristics were evaluated in the selected genotypes and clonal rootstocks. The obtained data were analyzed by using principal component analysis and it revealed that eigenvalues of the first 3 components were able to represent 36.43% of total variance. The most significant positive correlations of the plant vigor were determined with leaf blade length and petiole thickness. According to the diversity analysis of coefficients, the 05 C 002 and 08 C 039 genotypes were identified as being similar (6.66), while the 05 C 002 and 55 S 012 genotypes were determined as the most distant genotypes (325.84) in terms of morphology.
Limited Mouth Opening Secondary to Diffuse Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Wada Tomoko , Ram Saravanan
Published: December 2013

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a relatively rare condition with an immunologically mediated pathogenesis. For reasons that are not clearly understood, dense collagen is deposited in the connective tissues of the body in extraordinary amounts. Although its dramatic effects are seen in association with the skin, the disease is often quite serious with visceral organ involvement. We describe a case of limited mouth opening secondary to diffuse SSc, improvement in mouth opening with passive jaw stretch exercises, and the challenges involved in performing dental procedures for such patients.
Everyday Living with Diabetes Described by Family Members of Adult People with Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Rintala Tuula-Maria , Paavilainen Eija , Åstedt-Kurki Päivi
Published: December 2013

The aim of this study was to explore family members’ experiences of everyday life in families with adult people living with type 1 diabetes. The grounded theory method was used to gather and analyse data from the interviews of nineteen family members. Six concepts describing the family members’ views on everyday living with diabetes were generated on the basis of the data. Everyday life with diabetes is described as being intertwined with hypoglycemia. Becoming acquainted with diabetes takes place little by little. Being involved in the management and watching self-management from the sidelines are concepts describing family members’ participation in the daily management of diabetes. The family members are also integrating diabetes into everyday life. Living on an emotional roller-coaster tells about the thoughts and feelings that family members experience. Family members of adult people with diabetes are involved in the management of the diabetes in many ways and experience many concerns. The family members’ point of view is important to take into consideration when developing education for adults with diabetes.
Glioblastoma Cell Enrichment Is Critical for Analysis of Phosphorylated Drug Targets and Proteomic–Genomic Correlations
Authors: Mueller Claudius , deCarvalho Ana C. , Mikkelsen Tom , Lehman Norman L. , Calvert Valerie , Espina Virginia , Liotta Lance A. , Petricoin Emanuel F.
Published: December 2013

The quality of cancer genomic and proteomic data relies upon the quality of the clinical specimens examined. Here, we show that data derived from non-microdissected glioblastoma multiforme tumor tissue is either masked or not accurate, producing correlations between genomic and proteomic data that lead to false classifications for therapeutic stratification. We analyzed the level of 133 key signaling proteins and phosphoproteins in laser capture microdissected (LCM) primary tumors from a study set of tissues used for the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) profiling efforts, comparing the results to tissue-matched, nontumor cell–enriched lysates from adjacent sections. Among the analytes, 44%, including targets for clinically important inhibitors, such as phosphorylated mTOR, AKT, STAT1, VEGFR2, or BCL2, differed between matched tumor cell–enriched and nonenriched specimens (even in tumor sections with 90% tumor cell content). While total EGFR protein levels were higher in tumors with EGFR mutations, regardless of tumor cell enrichment, EGFR phosphorylation was increased only in LCM-enriched tumor specimens carrying EGFR mutations. Phosphorylated and total PTEN, which is highly expressed in normal brain, was reduced only in LCM-enriched tumor specimens with either PTEN mutation or loss in PTEN copy number, with no differences observed in non-microdissected samples. These results were confirmed in an independent, non-microdissected, publicly available protein data set from the TCGA database. Our findings highlight the necessity for careful upfront cellular enrichment in biospecimens that form the basis for targeted therapy selection and for molecular characterization efforts such as TCGA. Cancer Res; 74(3); 818–28. ©2013 AACR.
Prevalence and Molecular Characterization of Staphylococcus aureus Colonization among Neonatal Intensive Care Units in Taiwan
Authors: Kuo Chen-Yen , Huang Yi-Chuan , Huang Daniel Tsung-Ning , Chi Hsin , Lu Chun-Yi , Chang Luan-Yin , Chi Chia-Yu , Ho Yu-Huai , Huang Yhu-Chering , Liu Ching-Chuan , Huang Li-Min
Published: December 2013

Background:Staphylococcus aureus, particularly methicillin-resistant (MRSA), is an important pathogen in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). Carriage of S. aureus is a significant risk factor for subsequent infection. Objectives: To determine the current status of MRSA prevalence among NICU-hospitalized infants in Taiwan, we conducted this pilot island-wide survey. Methods: On two designated dates in 2011, each patient who stayed in the NICUs of 7 participating hospitals was included. Nasal and umbilical swabs were obtained and sent for detection of S. aureus. The prevalence and risk factors for MRSA carriage were analyzed. MRSA strains were tested for antimicrobial susceptibility and underwent molecular characterization. Results: A total of 251 subjects were included. The overall prevalence of S. aureus and MRSA carriage was 13 and 4.4%, respectively. Previous skin and soft tissue infection was the only predictor in multivariate analysis (OR 40.36; 95% CI 2.32-702.64; p = 0.011). Among 11 MRSA isolates, 3 pulsotypes were identified, with one major type (73%). Nine isolates carried a type IV staphylococcal chromosomal cassette, and 2 carried the type VT. All but one MRSA isolate belonged to linage sequence type 59, the community clone in Taiwan. Conclusions: On a designated date, 4.4% of the infants staying in NICUs in Taiwan carried almost genetically identical community strains of MRSA. MRSA colonization in these infants was significantly associated with previous skin and soft tissue infection.
Associations between Initial Change in Physical Activity Level and Subsequent Change in Regional Body Fat Distributions
Authors: Ezekwe Kelechi A. , Adegboye Amanda R.A. , Gamborg Michael , Heitmann Berit L.
Published: December 2013

Background: Few studies have examined which lifestyle factors relate to the development of fat distribution. Therefore, the identification of the determinants of changes in fat deposition is highly relevant. Methods: The association between the change in physical activity (PA) and the subsequent changes in regional body fat distributions was examined. In total, 1,236 men and 1,201 women were included at baseline and participated in the Danish MONICA (MONItoring Trends and Determinants in CArdiovascular Disease) study. A questionnaire was used to assess PA at 5 and 11 years after baseline examination, while waist circumference (WC) and hip circumference (HC) were measured at both follow-ups. Results: Among men, WC increased in the constant active group to a lesser extent than in the non-constant active group (3.4 vs. 4.1 cm; p = 0.03) concerning leisure time physical activities (LTPA). A similar pattern was observed for both WC and HC in relation to occupational physical activities (OPA) (p = 0.02). Among women, the results went in the same direction for LTPA, whereas the associations with OPA were in the opposite direction (p = 0.001). Conclusion: LTPA and OPA were associated with reduced subsequent 6-year changes in regional fat distribution for men. For women, no associations were observed in relation to WC; however, OPA seemed to increase HC among women.
Children with Disabilities: A Critical Appraisal
Authors: Sabatello Maya
Published: December 2013

This essay contemplates the rights of children with disabilities under international law. It analyses the philosophical and practical reasons for the failure of the Convention on the Rights of the Child to protect the rights of children with disabilities, and looks at the remedial measures adopted under the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). The argument advanced is that, especially when children’s perspectives are considered, assistive technologies are at the heart of national and international efforts to advance the rights of children with disabilities, most importantly, a right to inclusion. I consider the challenges ahead and draw conclusions on the future of the rights of children with disabilities.
Violence Toward Judicial Officials
Authors: Calhoun Frederick S.
Published: December 2013

This article explores several unique aspects that distinguish judicial officials from other public figures targeted for violence. Assaults and threats against judicial officials derive from the officials' role in the judicial system. They tend to have multiple victims, be motivated out of anger or disappointment over a particular court case, and--because of the court case--involve an interpersonal relationship between target and assailant. The article also argues for the necessity of researching both attackers and nonattackers in order to compare the similarities and differences between them, for example, the method by which attackers and nonattackers choose to communicate with or contact their targets. The article concludes with a call for more research on local judicial jurisdictions. This promises the largest laboratory for understanding violence toward judicial officials.
The legitimacy of regional governance networks: Gaining credibility in the shadow of hierarchy
Authors: Levelt Melika , Metze Tamara
Published: December 2013

This paper explores the sources of legitimacy of regional governance networks and pays special attention to the aspect of credibility. We argue that legitimacy of regional governance networks is not only based on legality, justifiability, and consent, but also on the ability of the regional governance network to gain credibility in the shadow of hierarchical decision making. Credibility has not received the same degree of attention as other aspects of legitimacy. However, networked forms of governing – such as regional governance – to a large extent rely on the belief held by participating governmental actors and higher levels of government in this type of collaboration and governing. They must be convinced of the added value of this type of collaboration. We empirically illustrate the importance of credibility as an aspect of legitimacy, using two examples of cases of regional housing governance in the Netherlands.
The Determinants of Campaign Spending in Mayoral Elections
Authors: Weinschenk Aaron C. , Holbrook Thomas M.
Published: December 2013

We examine why levels of campaign spending vary across U.S. mayoral elections. Although there has been debate about the extent to which spending is damaging or beneficial, few analyses have sought to understand the factors that inhibit or promote campaign spending. We focus on the impact of city-level attributes, political institutions, and contest-specific factors and find that a number of the variables we consider have important effects on campaign spending, including local government form, term length, scope of local government, an experienced candidate pool, and open seat and runoff elections. We conclude by discussing the implications of our findings for local policy makers.
A Fair Game for All? How Community Sports Clubs in Australia Deal With Diversity
Authors: Spaaij Ramón , Farquharson Karen , Magee Jonathan , Jeanes Ruth , Lusher Dean , Gorman Sean
Published: December 2013

Diversity and equality are key issues confronting sport. This article draws on findings from qualitative research carried out in Australia to critically examine how diversity is understood and valued in community sport. The findings suggest that there is a discrepancy between the policy objectives of government and sport organizations and the way in which diversity is understood and responded to in practice. Diversity management is not being adopted widely among local sports clubs. The idea of a moral imperative to cater to people with diverse backgrounds and abilities is largely absent; rather, the dominant discourse is underpinned by a business rationale which interprets diversity in terms of benefits and costs to the organization. This business-driven approach is often detrimental to the social policy objective of ensuring equitable outcomes in sport. A fundamental reconsideration of the rationale and practice of managing diversity in sport is therefore necessary.
Effects of multi-walled carbon nanotubes on the physical and mechanical properties of high-density polyethylene/wood flour nanocomposites
Authors: Farsi Mohammad , Sani Fatemeh Maashi
Published: December 2013

In this study, the effect of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and maleic anhydride-grafted polyethylene (MAPE) on the physical and mechanical properties of composites based on wood flour (WF) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) was investigated. To meet this objective, MWCNTs, as a reinforcing agent, in 4 levels of 0, 1, 3, and 5 wt% and MAPE, as a compatibilizer, in 2 levels of 0 and 3 wt% were used. The amount of WF was fixed at 50 wt% for all formulations. First, the materials were prepared by melt compounding process in an internal mixer (Brabender® Plasti-Corder®), and then the samples were manufactured by injection molding method. The morphology of the specimens was characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) technique. The results showed that when the contents of the MWCNTs were increased from 0 to 3 wt%, the tensile strength and modulus of the samples increased to 41.7% and 24.3%, respectively, and the water absorption values of the samples decreased to 58.8%. Similar results were also observed for the thickness swelling values. Both mechanical and physical properties of samples were improved by adding MAPE up to 3 wt%. The nanocomposites having 3 wt% MWCNTs and 3 wt% MAPE exhibited the highest impact and tensile strength values, while tensile modulus and physical properties reached their maximum when 5 wt% of MWCNT and 3 wt% of MAPE were used. Also, SEM micrographs showed that CNTs can fill the voids of wood–plastic composites, and the addition of MAPE and MWCNTs enhanced the interaction between the components.
Aerodynamic design of a highly loaded supersonic aspirated axial flow compressor stage
Authors: Yingjiao Hu , Songtao Wang , Longxing Zhang , Jun Ding
Published: December 2013

A non-standard aerodynamic design idea has been proposed for the supersonic or the transonic axial flow compressors. The aim of this non-standard design idea is to further increase the stage load efficiently with boundary layer suction used only in the stator, which can reduce the design difficulty of the air bleed system in the rotating part and improve the reliability of the stage. Compared with the conventional supersonic shock-in-type rotor, the rotor designed by this method can further increase the turning of the flow to enhance the stage work. Compared with the traditional supersonic impulse rotor, it can lower the rotor exit absolute Mach number to relieve the design difficulty of the downstream stator. But by increasing the turning of the flow in the rotor, the stator entrance Mach number will be increased inevitably, so boundary layer suction is used to solve its internal flow problems. Based on the numerical simulation, a verification stage has been designed to demonstrate the feasibility of this non-standard aerodynamic idea. From the three-dimensional viscous numerical results, a stage with total pressure ratio 2.56 has been attained at tip tangential speed 370 m/s. For this aspirated stage, three kinds of efficiency evaluation methods are applied, and the corresponding stage maximum efficiency is around 91% (calculated by formula (5)), 87% (calculated by formula (6)), and 83.4% (calculated by formula (7)) separately. The total bleed mass flow rate in the stator is around 5.8% of the inlet.
Environmental toxins
Authors: Sengupta Pallav , Banerjee Rajdeb
Published: December 2013

This review comprehensively summarizes the effects of more than 15 mostly used pesticides on male reproductive physiology, as recent experimental and epidemiological research have indicated their alarming impact on overall human health. Mechanisms have described that pesticide exposure damages spermatozoa, alter Sertoli or Leydig cell function, both in vitro and in vivo and thus affects semen quality. But, the literature suggests a need for more intricate research in those pesticides that are defined as mutagens or carcinogens and directly affect the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis. This literature review also proposes specific solutions to overcome these health effects.
A Pilot Intervention of Multifamily Dialectical Behavior Group Therapy in a Treatment-Seeking Adolescent Population
Authors: Uliaszek Amanda A. , Wilson Sylia , Mayberry Megan , Cox Keith , Maslar Michael
Published: December 2013

This open pilot trial examined the feasibility of a 16-week multifamily dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) skills group adapted for a multifamily context as an addendum to treatment as usual. Psychopathology symptoms in both adolescents ( N = 13) and caregivers ( N = 16) were assessed pre- and posttreatment using multiple methods and reporters. There was a significant reduction in adolescent borderline and antisocial personality disorder symptoms as assessed by diagnostic interview, as well as a significant decrease in caregiver-reported adolescent internalizing and externalizing behaviors. However, adolescents did not self-report a significant decrease in symptoms. Results suggest that multifamily DBT skills group may be a feasible treatment in this population and speak to the importance of further research examining the implementation and dissemination of DBT with adolescents in a family context.
Does multiple sclerosis affect glucose tolerance?
Authors: Wens I , Dalgas U , Deckx N , Cools N , Eijnde BO
Published: December 2013

Based on current literature, it is not clear if multiple sclerosis (MS) patients are at increased risk to develop impaired glucose tolerance (IGT). Eighty-one MS patients and 45 healthy controls (HC) performed an oral glucose tolerance test. IGT was defined as a fasting glucose concentration of 6.1–6.9 mmol/l and two-hour post-load glucose of 7.8–11.1 mmol/l. The prevalence of impaired fasting glucose concentrations (17% vs 2%) and IGT (11% vs 0%) was higher in MS patients than HC. Accordingly, the areas under the glucose and insulin curves were higher in MS patients. The current study demonstrates an elevated IGT-prevalence in MS.
How to treat tumefactive demyelinating disease?
Authors: Siffrin Volker , Müller-Forell Wibke , von Pein Harald , Zipp Frauke
Published: December 2013

Glioma-like inflammatory demyelinating lesions can be found in patients with pre-diagnosed multiple sclerosis, but they have also been described as an isolated disease entity. The initial diagnostic work-up usually includes a biopsy for histopathological analysis. However, even after unambiguous histopathologic classification, tumefactive lesions pose a therapeutic challenge. Until now, there have been no guidelines on how to treat patients with these rare and extreme lesion phenotypes. Here we report a patient with a relapsing unifocal tumefactive demyelinating lesion. The patient initially showed a good response to steroid treatment, with full clinical recovery. However, after relapse of the same lesion, recovery was incomplete. Although immunosuppression was initiated, the patient presented with subsequent further deterioration. Only maximal escalation of immunosuppression was able to stop the inflammatory activity. Due to the length of time of the step-wise escalation treatment however, the lengthy lesion activity led to irreversible tissue destruction and residual non-remitting disability. Early aggressive treatment with an induction therapy regimen might be more appropriate for these rare and often strongly disabling lesion subtypes.
When do negative response expectancies undermine interracial relations? The role of the Protestant work ethic
Authors: Butz David A. , Klik Kathleen A. , Plant E. Ashby
Published: December 2013

Although accumulating research indicates that negative expectations about interracial interactions undermine the quality of such interactions, little research has examined the factors that moderate the influence of negative expectations on responses to interracial interactions. We propose that individuals who endorse work-related ideologies such as the Protestant work ethic (PWE) expect that outcomes in interracial interactions should be contingent upon individual effort. As a result, such individuals are hypothesized to respond in a negative manner when they believe that regardless of their effort in an interracial interaction, interaction partners will respond negatively to them (termed negative response expectancies). Consistent with this hypothesis, negative response expectancies led to an increased desire to avoid interracial interactions (Studies 1a and 1b) and more antisocial behavior directed at an interracial interaction partner among individuals who strongly endorsed the PWE (Study 2). Across the studies, effects of negative response expectancies were relatively weaker or non-significant among individuals lower in the PWE. The implications of these findings for understanding the interplay between the PWE and expectancies in interracial interactions are discussed.
User acceptance studies for LED office lighting: Lamp spectrum, spatial brightness and illuminance
Authors: Islam MS , Dangol R , Hyvärinen M , Bhusal P , Puolakka M , Halonen L
Published: December 2013

In order to determine user acceptance for light-emitting diode (LED) office lighting, a full-scale experiment was conducted in two mock-up office rooms with different light spectra at two different illuminances. Six LED spectra and two fluorescent lamp spectra were used for the study. There were four spectra (three LED spectra and one fluorescent lamp spectrum) at a correlated colour temperature (CCT) of 4000 K and four spectra (three LED spectra and one fluorescent lamp spectrum) at a CCT of 6500 K. Forty observers evaluated the lighting environments under different spectra and rated the lighting environments sitting at a working desk and at a meeting table. The observers preferred the task illuminance of 500 lux to 300 lux and the CCT of 4000 K to 6500 K. The observers preferred the spectral power distributions (SPDs) under which they found the lighting environment to look brighter and more spacious. The observers’ preferences showed that spatial brightness was affected by illuminances and SPDs. The lighting with a SPD having higher values of a reference-based metric (CQS Colour Preference Scale) and an area-based metric (CQS Gamut Area Scale or Gamut Area Index) was preferred most at a CCT of 4000 K. It was also found that the lighting with the fluorescent lamp was least preferred among the other SPDs at the CCT of 4000 K. The observers preferred both the simple and complex SPDs over fluorescent lamps at 4000 K in the office environment. It would be a good option to develop simple LED SPDs while maintaining the criteria of good lighting for an office environment.
Psychopathology Among Homicidally Bereaved Individuals
Authors: van Denderen Mariëtte , de Keijser Jos , Kleen Marco , Boelen Paul A.
Published: December 2013

In the literature on bereavement, claims are made that homicidal loss is associated with posttraumatic stress reactions, depression, and other severe mental health problems. It is surprising that only a few studies have investigated the nature and prevalence of emotional symptoms following homicidal bereavement and a reference to systematic, empirical research is seldom provided. This article reviews the available literature to investigate whether these claims have empirical evidence. Three databases were searched to identify relevant studies. This approach was supplemented with a bibliography search. Eligible studies included English-language peer-reviewed articles that assessed psychopathology in the homicidally bereaved, as defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Of the 360 potentially relevant articles, 8 studies (13 references) met predefined inclusion criteria. Homicide-related psychopathology among the bereaved assessed in these studies includes posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, complicated grief, and substance abuse. Prevalence of lifetime homicide-related PTSD varied from 19.1% to 71% across studies. Current PTSD varied between 5.2% and 6%. The reviewed literature was inconclusive regarding the course of symptoms over time and the severity of psychopathology among the homicidally bereaved, compared to individuals bereaved by other causes of death. A comparison of the nature and prevalence of psychopathology between studies was complicated by unequal sample sizes and type, recruitment strategy, study design, and time since loss. Limitations of the included studies are discussed, as well as implications for clinical practice, policy, and future research.
Application of extracted feather protein to improve the shrink resistance of wool fabric
Authors: Eslahi Niloofar , Moshggoo Shadi , Azar Shirin Khalili , Dadashian Fatemeh , Nejad Nahid Hemmati
Published: December 2013

In this study, a novel way for modification of wool fabrics by extracted feather protein is introduced. The present investigation aims to establish an environmental friendly approach with feather waste to achieve shrink-resistant wool. For this purpose, chicken feathers were hydrolyzed with a commercial proteolytic enzyme accompanied by a reducing agent. This process was optimized to achieve maximum extraction yield. The extracted feather protein was then applied to modify the wool fibre surface in the presence or absence of a cross-linking agent, glycerol diglycidyl ether. The obtained results showed that treatment of wool fabric with feather protein led to a considerable improvement in anti-felting properties, and application of the cross-linking agent enhanced the shrink-resistant properties of wool further. Besides, the bending length of wool fabrics increased and their tensile strength was apparently unaffected in comparison with the untreated one. The scanning electron micrographs indicated that wool fibers were still intact and were not severely damaged by the applied treatment. The Fourier transform infrared spectra also approved the formation of cross-linked protein on wool fabric.
Retrograde mechanochemical ablation of the small saphenous vein for the treatment of a venous ulcer
Authors: Moore Hayley M , Lane Tristan RA , Franklin Ian J , Davies Alun H
Published: December 2013

We present the first case of retrograde ablation of the small saphenous vein to treat active venous ulceration. A 73-year-old gentleman with complicated varicose veins of the left leg and a non-healing venous ulcer despite previous successful endovenous treatment to his left great saphenous vein underwent mechanochemical ablation of his small saphenous vein with the ClariVein® system, under local anaesthetic, using a retrograde cannulation technique. Post-operatively the patient had improved symptomatically and the ulcer size had reduced. This report highlights that patients with small saphenous vein incompetence and active ulceration can be treated successfully with retrograde mechanochemical ablation.
Use of health plan combined with registry data to predict clinical trial recruitment
Authors: Curtis Jeffrey R , Wright Nicole C , Xie Fenglong , Chen Lang , Zhang Jie , Saag Kenneth G , Bharat Aseem , Kremer Joel , Cofield Stacey , Winthrop Kevin , Delzell Elizabeth
Published: December 2013

Background

Large pragmatic clinical trials (PCTs) are increasingly used to conduct comparative effectiveness research. In the context of planning a safety PCT of the live herpes zoster vaccine in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients aged ≥ 50 years receiving anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF) therapy, we evaluated the use of health plan combined with registry data to assess the feasibility of recruiting the 4000 patients needed for the trial and to facilitate site selection.

Methods

Using national US data from Medicare, we identified older RA patients who received anti-TNF therapy in the last quarter of 2009. Extrapolations were made from the Medicare patient population to younger patients and those with other types of insurance using the Consortium of Rheumatology Researchers of North America (CORRONA) disease registry. Patients’ treating rheumatologists were grouped into practices and sorted by size from the greatest to the least number of eligible patients.

Results

Approximately 50,000 RA patients receiving anti-TNF therapy were identified in the Medicare data, distributed across 1980 physician practices. After augmenting Medicare data with information from CORRONA and extrapolating to younger patients and those with other types of insurance, more than 12,000 potentially eligible study subjects were identified from the 50 largest rheumatology practices.

Conclusion

Health plan and registry databases appear useful to assess feasibility of large pragmatic trials and to assist in selection of recruitment sites with the greatest number of potentially eligible patients. This novel approach is applicable to trials with simple inclusion/exclusion criteria that can be readily assessed in these data sources.
Cyber-Victimized Students
Authors: Ryan Kaitlyn N. , Curwen Tracey
Published: December 2013

Bullying is a common topic in the media and academic settings. Teachers are regularly expected to provide curriculum and intervene regarding all forms of bullying, including cyber-bullying. Altering the behaviors of those who bully is often the focus of interventions, with less attention being placed on victim impact. The purpose of this article was to provide educators with a review of evidence regarding the occurrence, impact, and interventions for victims of cyber-bullying. Evidence reveals that cyber-bullying can have emotional, social, and academic impacts but that there are very few documented, and even fewer evidence-based, programs for victims of cyber-bullying. We conclude by proposing that school-wide programs and support be developed and provided to victims.
Bosutinib safety and management of toxicity in leukemia patients with resistance or intolerance to imatinib and other tyrosine kinase inhibitors
Authors: Kantarjian Hagop M. , Cortes Jorge E. , Kim Dong-Wook , Khoury H. Jean , Brümmendorf Tim H. , Porkka Kimmo , Martinelli Giovanni , Durrant Simon , Leip Eric , Kelly Virginia , Turnbull Kathleen , Besson Nadine , Gambacorti-Passerini Carlo
Published: December 2013

Key Points

Bosutinib had manageable toxicity and acceptable tolerability, with adverse events distinct from that of other tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Adverse events were primarily characterized by early-onset gastrointestinal events that were low grade, transient, and manageable.