bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using comparative analysis to teach about the nature of nonstationarity in future flood predictions
Authors: Shaw S. B. , Walter M. T.
Published: May 2012

Abstract. Comparative analysis has been a little used approach to the teaching of hydrology. Instead, hydrology is often taught by introducing fundamental principles with the assumption that they are sufficiently universal to apply across most any hydrologic system. In this paper, we illustrate the value of using comparative analysis to enhance students' insights into the degree and predictability of future non-stationarity in flood frequency analysis. Traditionally, flood frequency analysis is taught from a statistical perspective that can offer limited means of understanding the nature of non-stationarity. By visually comparing graphics of mean daily flows and annual peak discharges (plotted against Julian day) for watersheds in a variety of locales, distinct differences in the timing and nature of flooding in different regions of the US becomes readily apparent. Such differences highlight the dominant hydroclimatological drivers of different watersheds. When linked with information on the predictability of hydroclimatic drivers (hurricanes, atmospheric rivers, snowpack melt, convective events) in a changing climate, such comparative analysis provides students with an improved physical understanding of flood processes and a stronger foundation on which to make judgments about how to modify statistical techniques for making predictions in a changing climate. We envision that such comparative analysis could be incorporated into a number of other traditional hydrologic topics.
Experiences of using mobile technologies and virtual field tours in Physical Geography: implications for hydrology education
Authors: Kingston D. G. , Eastwood W. J. , Jones P. I. , Johnson R. , Marshall S. , Hannah D. M.
Published: May 2012

Abstract. Education in hydrology is changing rapidly due to diversification of students, emergent major scientific and practical challenges that our discipline must engage with, shifting pedagogic ideas and higher education environments, the need for students to develop new discipline specific and transferrable skills, and the advent of innovative technologies for learning and teaching. This paper focuses on new technologies in the context of learning and teaching in Physical Geography and reflects on the implications of our experiences for education in hydrology. We evaluate the experience of designing and trialling novel mobile technology-based field exercises and a virtual field tour for a Year 1 undergraduate Physical Geography module at a UK university. The new exercises are based on using and obtaining spatial data, operation of meteorological equipment (explained using an interactive DVD), and include introductions to global positioning systems (GPS) and geographical information systems (GIS). The technology and exercises were well received in a pilot study and subsequent rolling-out to the full student cohort (∼150 students). A statistically significant improvement in marks was observed following the redesign. Although the students enjoyed using mobile technology, the increased interactivity and opportunity for peer learning were considered to be the primary benefits by students. This is reinforced further by student preference for the new interactive virtual field tour over the previous "show-and-tell" field exercise. Despite the new exercises having many advantages, exercise development was not trivial due to the high start-up costs, the need for provision of sufficient technical support and the relative difficulty of making year-to-year changes (to the virtual field tour in particular). Our experiences are highly relevant to the implementation of novel learning and teaching technologies in hydrology education.
Analysis of flash flood regimes in the North-Western and South-Eastern Mediterranean regions
Authors: Tarolli P. , Borga M. , Morin E. , Delrieu G.
Published: May 2012

Abstract. This work analyses the prominent characteristics of flash flood regimes in two Mediterranean areas: the North-Western Mediterranean region, which includes Catalonia, France and Northern Italy, and the South-Eastern Mediterranean region, which includes Israel. The two regions are characterized by similarities in the hydro-meteorological monitoring infrastructure, which permits us to ensure homogeneity in the data collection procedures. The analysis is articulated into two parts. The first part is based on use of flood peak data, catchment area and occurrence date for 99 events (69 from the North-Western region and 30 from the South-Eastern region). Analysis is carried out in terms of relationship of flood peaks with catchment area and seasonality. Results show that the envelope curve for the South-Eastern region exhibits a more pronounced decreasing with catchment size with respect to the curve of the North-Western region. The differences between the two relationships reflect changes in the effects of storm coverage and hydrological characteristics between the two regions. Seasonality analysis shows that the events in the North-Western region tend to occur between August and November, whereas those in the South-Eastern area tend to occur in the period between October and May, reflecting the relevant patterns in the synoptic conditions leading to the intense precipitation events. In the second part, the focus is on the rainfall-runoff relationships for 13 selected major flash flood events (8 from the North-Western area and 5 from the South-Eastern area) for which rainfall and runoff properties are available. These flash floods are characterised in terms of climatic features of the impacted catchments, duration and amount of the generating rainfall, and runoff ratio. Results show that the rainfall duration is shorter and the rainfall depth lower in the South-Eastern region. The runoff ratios are rather low in both regions, whereas they are more variable in the South-Eastern area. No clear relationship between runoff ratio and rainfall depth is observed in the sample of floods, showing the major influence of rainfall intensity and the initial wetness condition in the runoff generation for these events.
The Effect of Self-concept and Organizational Identity on Organizational Citizenship Behavior ( A Case Study in Social Security Organization of Isfahan city)
Authors: Allameh Sayyed Mohsen , Alinajimi Saeed , Kazemi Ali
Published: May 2012

During the two recent decades, researchers of organizational behavior have paid special attention to extra-social behavior in organizations, and there has been specific focus on employees' affairs which are developed beyond formal job demands. Globalization era has created increased inter-individual mutual dependencies among organizations and groups. Thus, it has made more need for extra-social cooperation and interaction inside and outside the organizations. Therefore, organizational citizenship behavior plays a role in increasing the effectiveness and durability of the organization. The main purpose of this survey is to study the manner of impact of self-concept, and organizational identity on organizational citizenship behavior of employees of Social Security Corporation in Isfahan province and also to examine the existence of the balancing role of self-concept variable in the relationship between organizational identity and organizational citizenship behavior. This survey was conducted using descriptive-metrical method. Obtained results of this survey reveal that organizational citizenship behavior is affected by organizational identity, and self-concept; and each variable of organizational identity has positive correlation with organizational citizenship behavior. It means that by strengthening and improving the above variables it is possible to enhance organizational citizenship behavior. Also, results demonstrate that self-concept balances the relationship between organizational identity and organizational citizenship behavior.
Clarifying ethical constituents of God-believing employees to mitigate the outcomes of rumors and organizational rumor management
Authors: Khanifar Hossein , Jandaghi Gholamreza , Bordbar Hamed , Jangholi Mahmoud
Published: May 2012

By declining human spiritual belongings, the lack of ethics is considered as a major calamity of modern age. Disrespecting ethical codes and constituents in organizations and societies has caused that some ethical abnormal to be highlighted and involve the mind of managers and relevant authorities. Human get away of God believing and ethics – orientation as well as the lack of a clear and precise definition of ethical prism in organizations have caused unethical rumor behavior. Rumor is an unethical behavior disseminated among people in order to be believed. It is disseminated from one person to another verbally without any document. It causes that organizational managers and officials emphasize on human God-believing nature to mitigate the rumor negative outcomes and rumor management. While defining the rumor, present paper addresses to etiology of rumor in local and international literature and finally points ethical constituents which mitigate organizational rumor and abnormal behaviors in the organization.
Proposing a Training Evaluation Strategy to Ensure Training Transfer in Public Sector Organizations in Pakistan: An exploratory Account
Authors: Khalid Muhammad Maqsood , Ashraf Muhammad , Azeem Muhammad , Ahmed Rahil Irfan , Ahmad Hafiz Nabeel
Published: May 2012

Purpose For human resources development training is a key scheme in attaining organization objectives. Evaluating training outcome is low in public organizations of Pakistan. This situation demands a viable training strategy based on systematic flow of processes and techniques to develop the workforce for practical application in job environment. This study addresses a doable training assessment strategy to ensure training effectiveness in public organizations of Pakistan. Design The study approach is based on theoretical phenomenon. It is a review of old and current approaches of training evaluation. The strategy presented in this study is based on critical review of diverse approaches to training evaluation to inculcate quality and bring improvement in training programs conducted in developing country environment such as Pakistan. Findings In Pakistani public organizations, there is no trend by this time to formally evaluate training outcome. But this unstable state of affairs will not last long. In future they will need to know what cost they incurred on training and what benefits did they acquire. This is essential to get training quality. This study addresses the policy makers in both public and private sectors of Pakistan to respond to the proposed training strategy as an innovative move to instill training as a thought provoking and willingly participative activity.   Research Limitations This study is limited to assess training and evaluation needs of public organizations and their employees in Pakistan. Practical Implications In the awake of financial crisis and long debts, Pakistan needs to save every penny and must not give away any investment. This study invites public organizations to consider the proposed training assessment strategy for practical implementation. This study offers assistance to evaluation activities and presents solutions to gaps in performance and skill. Originality/value This study will contribute to the debate on training evaluation methods and techniques and finds its originality from literature review to conceive a training evaluation strategy and to develop a practicable methodology to judge training effectiveness.   Keywords Public organizations, training assessment, evaluation, effectiveness, strategy,
Analysis of Factors Affecting Technology Acceptance by Iranian Movie Producers
Authors: Javadi Mohammad Hossain Moshref , Allameh Mohsen , Zare Arash
Published: May 2012

Since investment on cinematic technologies imposes excessive costs on authorities, acceptance of these technologies among its users has an important role in their success and final efficiency. The purpose of this study was to analyze factors influencing on acceptance of technology among Tehran cinematic artists. In this study, at first, by collecting information from the library, determinant variables of usage of new technologies were specified. On this basis, in addition to the variables of model of acceptance of technology, social influence, resistance to change and self- efficacy were studied. In next stage, for surveying the effect of studied components, closed- end 27- items questionnaire was used for collecting data. The measurement tools in this study were the established questionnaire made of a technology acceptance model. The number of sample was determined equal to 211 according to the preliminary study that samples included Tehran cinematic actors. Based on the results, all variables, except for resistance to change and self- efficacy of computer that had meaningful difference less than average, other had meaningful difference more or equal to average. Mean difference of attitude toward usage of technology and of social influence was meaningful in different graduate ranges and mean of other factors shows no meaningful difference in different graduate ranges. All assumptions were confirmed in 5% meaningful level. Keywords: Technology Acceptance Model, Cinema, Social Influence, Resistance to Change, Self- Efficacy.
Nurses Perception Of Their Workload And Pay In The Era Of HIV/AIDS In Gaborone And The Surrounding Areas Of Botswana
Authors: Bodilenyane Keratilwe , Motshegwa Baakile
Published: May 2012

AbstractThe purpose of this research paper was to explore how HIV/AIDS manipulate nurses’ perception of their workload and pay in the era of HIV/AIDS in Gaborone and the surrounding areas of Botswana. The health care sector in Botswana is overwhelmed by HIV/AIDS, and this takes a toll on the nurses because they are the ones at the forefront in the fight against this demanding and risky illness at the workplace. The focus in this study was on the workload and pay in the era of HIV/AIDS. The general picture that emerges from the current study is that nurses are dissatisfied with their pay and to some extent the workload and this supports some of the earlier studies which reinforce their importance in the workplace. The study used both primary and secondary sources of information. For the purpose of this study convenience sampling was used. A questionnaire was used for data collection. The study adapted Index of Organizational Reactions (IOR). The findings of the current study will help the government to design strategies that will increase the level of job satisfaction among the nurses in the public health care sector of Botswana.
Rilonacept (interleukin‐1 trap) for prevention of gout flares during initiation of uric acid–lowering therapy: Results from a phase III randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, confirmatory efficacy study
Authors: Schumacher H. Ralph , Evans Robert R. , Saag Kenneth G. , Clower James , Jennings William , Weinstein Steven P. , Yancopoulos George D. , Wang Jian , Terkeltaub Robert
Published: May 2012

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the interleukin‐1 inhibitor rilonacept (interleukin‐1 Trap) for gout flare prevention during initiation of uric acid–lowering therapy (ULT).

Methods

In total, 241 adult patients with gout, ≥2 gout flares within the past year, and a serum urate level ≥7.5 mg/dl were initiated on allopurinol 300 mg daily and randomly allocated in a 1:1:1 ratio to receive 16 once‐weekly subcutaneous injections of placebo, rilonacept 80 mg, or rilonacept 160 mg, with a double (loading) dose on day 1. Allopurinol was titrated to achieve a serum urate level of <6.0 mg/dl. The study was powered for the primary efficacy end point, the number of gout flares per patient through week 16.

Results

More patients in the rilonacept groups (80.0% in the rilonacept 80 mg group, 86.4% in the rilonacept 160 mg group) completed the study than in the placebo group (72.5%; P < 0.05 for the rilonacept 160 mg group versus the placebo group). Over 16 weeks, the mean number of gout flares per patient was significantly reduced by rilonacept treatment (placebo: 1.06, rilonacept 80 mg: 0.29 [P < 0.001], rilonacept 160 mg: 0.21 [P < 0.001]). Significantly lower proportions of patients reported ≥1 gout flares with rilonacept 80 mg (18.8%) and rilonacept 160 mg (16.3%) relative to placebo (46.8%; P < 0.001 for both). Except for injection site reactions (1.3% in the placebo group versus 8.8% in the rilonacept 80 mg group [P = 0.0635, post hoc analysis] and 19.8% in the rilonacept 160 mg group [P = 0.0001, post hoc analysis]), the incidence of adverse events was generally balanced among the treatment groups.

Conclusion

Rilonacept markedly reduced the occurrence of gout flares associated with the initiation of ULT. The efficacy and safety profile suggests that rilonacept may have the potential to improve long‐term disease control for some patients by improving adherence to ULT by reducing flares during the first months after ULT initiation.
Physicians' explanations for apparent gaps in the quality of rheumatology care: Results from the US Medicare Physician Quality Reporting System
Authors: Curtis Jeffrey R. , Sharma Pradeep , Arora Tarun , Bharat Aseem , Barnes Itara , Morrisey Michael A. , Kilgore Meredith , Saag Kenneth G. , Wright Nicole C. , Yun Huifen G. , Delzell Elizabeth
Published: May 2012

Objective

The metrics used to assess quality of care and pay for performance in rheumatology are increasingly important. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services established the Physician Quality Reporting System (PQRS) to allow physicians to report performance measures for many conditions, including osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). We described the frequency and nature of physician‐reported reasons why recommended care for individual osteoporosis and RA patients was not provided.

Methods

Using national data on Medicare fee‐for‐service beneficiaries (2007–2009), we identified health care providers reporting on quality of care for any of 3 osteoporosis or 3 RA measures. PQRS reason codes allowed physicians to submit explanations why recommended care was not given.

Results

In 2009, 1,775 physicians reported on ≥1 osteoporosis PQRS measure and 630 physicians reported on ≥1 RA measure. For the older women whose physician reported on lifetime dual x‐ray absorptiometry screening at least once since the age of 60 years via PQRS, 76% received such screening. Among the patients with physician‐diagnosed osteoporosis reported via PQRS, 82% received prescription osteoporosis medication in the preceding year. For RA medication use reported via PQRS, 89% of patients received a disease‐modifying antirheumatic drug or a biologic agent. For the remaining 11–24% of osteoporosis and RA patients, physicians reported medical, patient, system, or other reasons why care was considered but not provided.

Conclusion

A substantial fraction of Medicare enrollees who did not receive recommended osteoporosis or RA care had physician‐documented reasons for why care was not provided. For Medicare and other health plans that implement penalties for apparent nonperformance or delivery of suboptimal care, it will be important to allow physicians to provide reasons that care was considered medically inappropriate, refused, or otherwise not feasible.
Trunk lean gait modification and knee joint load in people with medial knee osteoarthritis: The effect of varying trunk lean angles
Authors: Simic Milena , Hunt Michael A. , Bennell Kim L. , Hinman Rana S. , Wrigley Tim V.
Published: May 2012

Objective

To evaluate whether increased lateral trunk lean toward the symptomatic lower extremity during gait in people with medial knee osteoarthritis (OA) immediately alters symptoms or medial knee load, as measured by the external knee adduction moment (KAM).

Methods

Participants with medial knee OA (n = 22) underwent 3‐dimensional gait analysis to measure KAM peaks (early and late stance) and KAM impulse. Following the analysis of natural gait, participants were trained to lean their trunk toward the symptomatic leg during ipsilateral stance over 3 randomly ordered conditions (6°, 9°, and 12° lean). A projection screen displayed real‐time trunk angles and target levels. Pain/discomfort in the knees, the hip, and the back were measured across conditions. Load‐modifying effects of increasing lean magnitudes were investigated using linear mixed models. Mediating effects of peak lean timing and participant characteristics (pain and malalignment) were evaluated.

Results

Increased trunk lean reduced all KAM measures (P < 0.001), with larger lean angles achieving greater reductions. Efficacy of load reduction improved with later peak lean timing for all measures of the KAM. Participant characteristics did not mediate the effect of trunk lean on the KAM, and symptoms did not change across conditions (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Increased trunk lean reduced medial knee load in a dose‐response manner. Slightly later achievement of peak trunk lean improved the load‐modifying effect of this gait strategy. No immediate symptomatic changes were identified. Future research should determine if long‐term implementation of this gait strategy is feasible and whether it can modify disease symptoms and OA progression.
Anxiety and depressive symptoms and illness perceptions in psoriatic arthritis and associations with physical health‐related quality of life
Authors: Kotsis Konstantinos , Voulgari Paraskevi V. , Tsifetaki Niki , Machado Myrela O. , Carvalho André F. , Creed Francis , Drosos Alexandros A. , Hyphantis Thomas
Published: May 2012

Objective

Symptoms of psychological distress, including anxiety and depressive symptoms, and illness perceptions are important in determining outcome in patients with rheumatic disease. We aimed to compare psychological distress in psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and to test whether the association between psychological variables and health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) was similar in the 2 forms of arthritis.

Methods

In 83 PsA patients and 199 RA patients, we used the Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ‐9), the Symptom Checklist‐90‐Revised, and the Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire to assess psychological variables and the World Health Organization Quality of Life Instrument, Short Form to assess HRQOL. We used hierarchical regression analysis to determine the associations between psychological variables and HRQOL after adjusting for demographic variables and disease parameters.

Results

The prevalence of moderate to severe levels of depressive symptoms (PHQ‐9 score ≥10) was 21.7% in PsA patients, 25.1% in RA patients, and 36.7% in those PsA patients with polyarthritis. After adjustment for severity of disease and pain, anxiety (β = −0.28) and concern about bodily symptoms attributed to the illness (β = −0.33) were independent correlates of physical HRQOL in PsA. In RA, depressive symptoms (β = −0.29) and concern about the consequences of the arthritis (β = −0.27) were independent correlates of physical HRQOL.

Conclusion

These findings suggest strongly that psychological factors are important correlates of HRQOL in PsA as well as in RA. Attention to patients' anxiety and their concern about numerous bodily symptoms attributed to the illness may enable rheumatologists to identify and manage treatable aspects of HRQOL in PsA.
Importance of Social Influence in Consumers' Willingness to Pay for Local Food: Are There Gender Differences?
Authors: Gracia Azucena , de Magistris Tiziana , Nayga Rodolfo M.
Published: May 2012

The authors assess consumers' willingness to pay (WTP) for a local food product using an experimental auction. As local foods involve a social component, they aim also to test if social influence affects WTP for local foods and if the effects of social influence on WTP are different between men and women. They found that consumers are willing to pay a premium for the analyzed local food product. Moreover, social influence indeed affects WTP values, but the effects are different between men and women. Although social influence positively affects WTP for local foods for women, the effect is negative for men. The results have significant marketing and policy implications related to the promotion of local foods.
Reactions of Bili‐Uele Chimpanzees to Humans in Relation to Their Distance From Roads and Villages
Authors: HICKS THURSTON C. , ROESSINGH PETER , MENKEN STEPH B. J.
Published: May 2012

In order to assess the impact of human activities on chimpanzee behavior, we compared reactions to humans of Eastern chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes schweinfurthii) living in proximity to and at a distance from roads and settlements in the Bili‐Uele landscape in Northern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). We found that chimpanzees in the remote Gangu Forest were more likely to show curious or neutral reactions to us and were less likely to flee than those living closer to roads. In addition, arboreal contact durations with Gangu chimpanzees lasted significantly longer than elsewhere. The most likely explanation for this phenomenon is that with increasing distance from roads, chimpanzees have in the recent past had fewer negative encounters with humans, and thus never learned to fear them. The discovery of this population of “naïve chimpanzees” presents us with an important research and conservation opportunity that may result in the installation of a long‐term research site and increased protection of the population. Am. J. Primatol. 74:721‐733, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Ontogeny of Prehensile‐Tail Use inCebus capucinusandAlouatta palliata
Authors: BEZANSON MICHELLE
Published: May 2012

A study of the platyrrhine prehensile tail provides an opportunity to better understand how ecological and biomechanical factors affect the ability of primates to distribute mass across many different kinds of arboreal supports. Young individuals experience ontogenetic changes in body mass, limb proportions, and motor skills that are likely to exert a strong influence on foraging strategies, social behaviors, support use, and associated prehensile‐tail use. In this research, I examine ontogenetic patterns of prehensile‐tail use inCebus capucinusandAlouatta palliata. I collected behavioral data on activity, positional context, support size, and prehensile‐tail use in five age categories of white‐faced capuchins and mantled howlers during a 12‐month period atEstaciónBiológicaLaSuerte in northeasternCostaRica. Infant and juvenile howlers and capuchins were found to use their prehensile tails significantly more often than adults during feeding, foraging, and social behavior. Prehensile‐tail use did not show predictable increases during growth. In both species, adults used their prehensile tails in mass‐bearing modes significantly less often than juveniles. Despite differences in tail anatomy inCebusandAlouatta, prehensile‐tail use was observed to follow an increasing trajectory from infancy, peaking during juvenescence, and then decreasing in older juveniles and adults. In both species, it appeared that adult patterns of prehensile‐tail use reflected the demands placed on young juveniles. Am. J. Primatol. 74:770‐782, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Emerging genetic patterns of the european neolithic: Perspectives from a late neolithic bell beaker burial site in Germany
Authors: Lee Esther J. , Makarewicz Cheryl , Renneberg Rebecca , Harder Melanie , Krause‐Kyora Ben , Müller Stephanie , Ostritz Sven , Fehren‐Schmitz Lars , Schreiber Stefan , Müller Johannes , von Wurmb‐Schwark Nicole , Nebel Almut
Published: May 2012

The transition from hunting and gathering to agriculture in Europe is associated with demographic changes that may have shifted the human gene pool of the region as a result of an influx of Neolithic farmers from the Near East. However, the genetic composition of populations after the earliest Neolithic, when a diverse mosaic of societies that had been fully engaged in agriculture for some time appeared in central Europe, is poorly known. At this period during the Late Neolithic (ca. 2,800–2,000 BC), regionally distinctive burial patterns associated with two different cultural groups emerge, Bell Beaker and Corded Ware, and may reflect differences in how these societies were organized. Ancient DNA analyses of human remains from the Late Neolithic Bell Beaker site of Kromsdorf, Germany showed distinct mitochondrial haplotypes for six individuals, which were classified under the haplogroups I1, K1, T1, U2, U5, and W5, and two males were identified as belonging to the Y haplogroup R1b. In contrast to other Late Neolithic societies in Europe emphasizing maintenance of biological relatedness in mortuary contexts, the diversity of maternal haplotypes evident at Kromsdorf suggests that burial practices of Bell Beaker communities operated outside of social norms based on shared maternal lineages. Furthermore, our data, along with those from previous studies, indicate that modern U5‐lineages may have received little, if any, contribution from the Mesolithic or Neolithic mitochondrial gene pool. Am J Phys Anthropol 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Stable isotope evidence for sex‐ and status‐based variations in diet and life history at medieval Trino Vercellese, Italy
Authors: Reitsema Laurie J. , Vercellotti Giuseppe
Published: May 2012

The medieval period in Europe was a time of unprecedented social complexity that affected human diet. The diets of certain subgroups—for example, children, women, and the poor—are chronically underrepresented in historical sources from the medieval period. To better understand diet and the distribution of foods during the medieval period, we investigated stable carbon and nitrogen isotope ratios of 30 individuals from Trino Vercellese, Northern Italy (8th–13th c.). Specifically, we examined diet differences between subgroups (males and females, and high‐ and low‐status individuals), and diet change throughout the life course among these groups by comparing dentine and bone collagen. Our results show a diet based on terrestrial resources with input from C4plants, which could include proso and/or foxtail millet. Diets of low‐status males differ from those of females (both status groups) and of high‐status males. These differences develop in adulthood. Childhood diets are similar among the subgroups, but sex‐ and status‐based differences appear in adulthood. We discuss the possibility of cultural buffering and dietary selectivity of females and high‐status individuals. Am J Phys Anthropol 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Enantiomeric Natural Products: Occurrence and Biogenesis
Authors: Finefield Jennifer M. , Sherman David H. , Kreitman Martin , Williams Robert M.
Published: May 2012

In nature, chiral natural products are usually produced in optically pure form—however, occasionally both enantiomers are formed. These enantiomeric natural products can arise from a single species or from different genera and/or species. Extensive research has been carried out over the years in an attempt to understand the biogenesis of naturally occurring enantiomers; however, many fascinating puzzles and stereochemical anomalies still remain.
Simulations of a full three‐dimensional packing process and flow‐induced stresses in injection molding
Authors: Li Xuejuan , Ouyang Jie , Li Qiang , Ren Jinlian
Published: May 2012

Numerical investigations of a full three‐dimensional (3D) packing process and flow‐induced stresses are presented. The model was constructed on the basis of a 3D nonisothermal weakly compressible viscoelastic flow model combined with extended pom‐pom (XPP) constitutive and Tait state equations. A hybrid finite element method (FEM)–finite volume method (FVM) is proposed for solving this model. The momentum equations were solved by the FEM, in which a discrete elastic viscous stress split scheme was used to overcome the elastic stress instability, and an implicit scheme of iterative weakly compressible Crank–Nicolson‐based split scheme was used to avoid the Ladyshenskaya–Babuška–Brezzi condition. The energy and XPP equations were solved by the FVM, in which an upwind scheme was used for the strongly convection‐dominated problem of the energy equation. Subsequently, the validity of the proposed method was verified by the benchmark problem, and a full 3D packing process and flow‐induced stresses were simulated. The pressure and stresses distributions were studied in the packing process and were in agreement with the results of the literature and experiments in tendency. We particularly focused on the effects of the elasticity and pressure on the flow‐induced stresses. The numerical results show that normal stress differences decreased with incremental Weissenberg number and increased with incremental holding pressure. The research results had a certain reference value for improving the properties of products in actual production processes. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Enhanced adhesion of conductive coating on plasma‐treated polyester fabric: A study on the ageing effect
Authors: Montarsolo A. , Varesano A. , Mossotti R. , Rombaldoni F. , Periolatto M. , Mazzuchetti G. , Tonin C.
Published: May 2012

In recent years, there has been growing attention on intrinsically conducting polymers, such as polypyrrole (PPy) because of the wide range of possible applications. Adhesion to other materials is a pending problem that could be tackled by enhancing the chemical affinity of the surface toward PPy coating. In this work, low‐temperature plasma pretreatments were used for improving adhesion of PPy on polyester (PET) fabrics by changing the surface chemistry and generating a microscopically rough surface. Oxygen and argon plasmas were used to treat both sides of PET fabrics before PPy deposition by in situ chemical polymerization. Moreover, PPy depositions were performed 1 h, 1 week, and 1 month after the plasma treatments to study possible ageing effects. Different chemical/physical characterizations (contact angle, surface energy, atomic force microscopy, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy) showed the efficacy of plasma pretreatments in inducing wettability on PET fabrics and promoting adhesion of the PPy layer. The enhanced adhesion was confirmed by abrasion tests and subsequent surface resistivity and color measurements. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Synthesis and characterization of a hybrid material based on a trimethoxysilane functionalized benzoxazine
Authors: Spontón M. , Estenoz D. , Lligadas G. , Ronda J. C. , Galià M. , Cádiz V.
Published: May 2012

A polybenzoxazine/polysiloxane hybrid has been prepared by sol–gel process and ring‐opening polymerization. For this purpose, first a functionalized benzoxazine was synthesized from bisphenol A, paraformaldehyde and 3‐(trimethoxysilyl) propylamine, with initial molar ratio 1 : 4 : 2, and 95% yield. The structure of the monomer was characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance. The sol–gel process and curing behavior have been studied by FTIR spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry. The dynamic mechanical thermal analysis of the hybrid material (Bz‐PSi) showed higher Tg and storage modulus respect to the conventional polybenzoxazine (Bz‐BA). Also, the thermogravimetric analysis revealed a better thermal stability. The high limiting oxygen index (LOI) values (about LOI = 32) confirmed similar effective flame retardance properties of the hybrid material respect to conventional benzoxazine. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Electrospinning fabrication and characterization of poly(vinyl alcohol)/layered double hydroxides composite fibers
Authors: Qin Qing , Liu Ya , Chen Si‐Chong , Zhai Fei‐Yu , Jing Xin‐Ke , Wang Yu Zhong
Published: May 2012

Nanofibers of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)/layered double hydroxide (Mg‐Al LDH) composites are prepared by the electrostatic fiber spinning using water as the solvent at a high voltage of 21 kV. Either inorganic LDH carbonate (LDH‐CO3) orL‐lactic acid‐modified LDH (Lact‐LDH) is used for incorporating with PVA. Scanning electron microscopy SEM investigations on the nanofibers suggest that the average diameters of PVA/LDH composite fibers are smaller than that of neat PVA. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) investigations indicate that the dispersity of the LDH in PVA matrix is much improved after modification withL‐lactic acid. The mechanical properties of the PVA/LDH fibers are obviously enhanced compared to that of neat PVA. For example, the tensile stress and elongation at break of the PVA/Lact‐LDH electrospun fibrous mat with 5 wt % Lact‐LDH are 31.7 MPa and 36.7%, respectively, which are significantly higher than those of neat PVA, and also higher than those of PVA/LDH‐CO3owing to the better dispersity of Lact‐LDH nanoparticles. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Development of multilayer polyelectrolyte thin‐film membranes fabricated by spin assisted layer‐by‐layer assembly
Authors: Fadhillah Farid , Javaid Zaidi S. M. , Khan Zafarullah , Khaled Mazen , Rahman Faizur , Hammond Paula
Published: May 2012

Polyelectrolyte multilayer (PEM) thin films consisting of alternate layers of two PEM systems, that is poly(diallyl dimethyl ammonium chloride)/poly(vinyl sulfate) (PDAC/PVS) and poly(allyl amine hydrochloride) (PAH)/ are successfully deposited on polysulfone (PSF) support using spin‐assisted layer‐by‐layer assembly. The films are characterized using atomic force microscope, Fourier transform Infrared, and contact angle measurement. The salt (NaCl) rejection and water flux of the [PDAC/PVS] and [PAH/PVS] membranes are also evaluated using a crossflow permeation test cell. The permeation test shows that 120 bilayers of [PAH/PVS] on PSF substrate provide salt rejection of 53% and water flux of 37 L/m2 h, whereas that of PDAC/PVS on PSF substrate provide salt rejection of 21% and water flux of 90 L/m2 h for a 2000‐ppm NaCl solution feed at a pressure of 40 bar and temperature of 25°C. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Thermal curing reaction and heat‐resistance of methyl‐di(M‐ethynylphenyl‐amino)silane
Authors: Song Ning , Xu Fang , Ni Lizhong , Chen Jianding
Published: May 2012

Methyl‐di(m‐ethynylphenyl‐amino)silane (MEAS) is a new kind of silazane with ethynylphenyl groups in the end of the molecule. The studies about the curing reaction kinetics and curing reaction mechanism are important for its application and performance. In this article, differential scanning calorimeter was used to study the curing reaction kinetics of MEAS. The results showed that both of the apparent activation energy (Ea) and the reaction order (n) that were evaluated with the method of Kissinger (113.4 kJ/mol, 0.93) agreed well with those using the method of Ozawa (116.1 kJ/mol, 0.95). According to structural changes during curing characterized using Fourier‐transform infrared spectra, it was inferred that MEAS resin underwent the main four kinds of cross‐linking reaction under the condition of heating. Thermogravimetric analysis was used to characterize the heat‐resistance of MEAS thermoset. The results showed that the temperature of 5% weight loss based on the initial weight (Td5) of the thermoset was 632.4°C and the residue yield at 900°C was 86.4% in nitrogen. The thermoset sintered at 1450°C in argon transformed into a ceramic with yield of 71%, which was studied by scanning electron microscopy and X‐ray diffraction. The sintered products were smooth and hard solid and its chemical composition was made up of β‐SiC, α‐Si3N4 ceramic and free carbon. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Development of poly(dimethylsiloxane)–titania nanocomposites with controlled dielectric properties: Effect of heat treatment of titania on electrical properties
Authors: Nayak Suryakanta , Rahaman Mostafizur , Pandey A. K. , Setua Dipak Kumar , Chaki Tapan Kumar , Khastgir Dipak
Published: May 2012

Polymer–ceramic composites were prepared using poly(dimethylsiloxane) as base matrix and normal as well as heat‐treated titania as fillers. Dielectric and mechanical properties of the composites were measured and found that dielectric constant of the composites was increased dramatically with the addition of filler, whereas resistivity was decreased. Hardness and modulus were found to increase but tensile strength, % elongation at break, and tear strength were decreased with the filler loading. Neat titania contains some moisture (physisorbed and chemisorbed) as revealed from thermogravimetric analysis. Both electrical and mechanical properties of the composites were affected by filler heat treatment. Further, untreated titania contains Ti3+ and Ti4+, which on heat treatment, increases the concentration of Ti4+, as a result electrical properties were affected. Filler dispersion in the composites was studied by field emission scanning electron microscopy and high resolution transmission electron microscopy. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
A method to break charge transfer complex of polyimide: A study on solution behavior
Authors: Ke Fuyou , Song Naiheng , Liang Dehai , Xu Hongyao
Published: May 2012

Charge transfer complex strongly affects the optical transparency of polyimide film. Here, solution behavior of a polyimide derived from 3,3′,4,4′ biphenyltetracarboxylic dianhydride and 1,4‐bis(3‐aminopropyl)piperazine in acetic acid, chloroform, and their mixed solvents is investigated in detail by light scattering. It is found that the polyimide existed as single chains in acetic acid owing to the acid‐base interaction. However, association is observed in chloroform solution because of the charge transfer complex and enhanced by increasing the solution concentration. To break the charge transfer interaction and clear the association, only a small amount of acetic acid is required to add into the chloroform solution owing to the protonation of the diamine groups, confirmed by the zeta potential measurements. Simultaneously, the associates disappear quickly after addition of acetic acid. This study will provide a novel method for preparation of high optical transparent polyimide film by simply tuning the solvent. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
3D Analysis of the Forearm Rotational Efficiency Variation in Humans
Authors: IbÁÑez‐Gimeno Pere , Jordana Xavier , Manyosa Joan , Malgosa AssumpciÓ , GaltÉs Ignasi
Published: May 2012

Pronosupination is a component of the hominoid orthograde corporal plane that enables primates to execute efficient and sure locomotion in their habitat and is an essential movement for the development of manipulative capacities. We analyze human variability in the rotational efficiency of the pronator teres muscle by applying the biomechanical model created by Galtés et al. (Am J Phys Anthropol 2008; 135:293–300; Am J Phys Anthropol 2009a; 140:589–594) to skeletal remains of a human sample (N = 29) and three nonhuman hominoid specimens (chimpanzee, gorilla, and orangutan) by means of 3D technology. We aim to examine whether there is a distinctive human pattern of rotational efficiency and determine which structural features of the upper‐limb bones have the greatest influence on the determination of rotational efficiency. Our results show that the human pattern differs from efficiencies observed in nonhuman hominoids, which may be interpreted in the light of morphofunctional adaptations. We identify medial epicondylar form as the key structure of the upper‐limb bones for the determination of the rotational efficiency of the forearm. Results indicate that the more medially projected epicondyle of nonhuman hominoids relative to humans leads to higher values of maximum rotational efficiency. Moreover, the orientation of the medial epicondyle determines the pronounced differences in the position of the maximum efficiencies in the pronosupination range between humans and the studied nonhuman hominoids. Proximodistal orientation of the medial epicondyle is suggested to be a more appropriate feature for distinguishing between humans and nonhuman hominoids than anteroposterior orientation and, therefore, for inferring behavioral aspects from skeletal remains and fossils of primate upper‐limb bones. Anat Rec, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Interleukin‐1‐Mediated phospholipid breakdown and arachidonic acid release in human synovial cells
Authors: Angel Juana , Colard Odile , Chevy Françoise , Fournier Catherine
Published: May 2012

Objective. Interleukin‐1 (IL‐1), an important mediator contributing to joint destruction in rheumatoid arthritis, is known to stimulate the release of arachidonic acid (AA) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) from adherent synoviocytes. To study the intracellular pathways involved in these functions, we stimulated cultures of human synovial cells with recombinant IL‐1β.

Methods. AA liberation was measured after labeling synovial cells with 3H‐AA, and PGE2 levels were determined by high performance liquid chromatography or radioimmunoassay. Identification of 3H‐AA‐labeled phospholipids was performed by thin layer chromatography. Cell‐associated phospholipase A2 (PLA2) enzymatic activity was determined by an assay with cell‐free systems and exogenous substrates.

Results. Stimulation of synovial cells with recombinant IL‐1β induced a decrease in phosphatidylcholine (PC), phosphatidylinositol (PI), and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), and a marked increase in cell‐associated PLA2 activity as compared with controls. In the presence of either quinacrine, an inhibitor of PLA2 pathway activation, or neomycin, which binds to PI mono‐ and biphosphate thus blocking their degradation by phospholipases, AA and PGE2 secretion were reduced in a dose‐dependent manner. Kinetic studies revealed that quinacrine had little blocking activity on the IL‐1‐mediated AA release after 1 hour of stimulation but completely abolished it after 5 or 8 hours. In contrast, neomycin exerted a partial but significant inhibitory effect from the first hour of stimulation onward. Addition of quinacrine was also demonstrated to abolish the IL‐1‐induced hydrolysis of PC and PE but not PI, indicating that PC and PE are the preferred substrates for PLA2 enzymatic activity in human synovial cells.

Conclusion. Our findings strongly suggest that AA and PGE2 production by IL‐1‐triggered synoviocytes are largely dependent upon PLA2‐mediated hydrolysis of PC and PE and to a lesser extent upon the earlier degradation of PI.
Temporal covariation of soluble interleukin‐2 receptor levels, daily stress, and disease activity in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Harrington Laura , Affleck Glenn , Urrows Susan , Tennen Howard , Higgins Pamela , Zautra Alex , Hoffman Steven
Published: May 2012

Objective. To examine synchronous changes in soluble interleukin‐2 receptor (sIL‐2R) levels, daily indicators of emotional stress, joint inflammation, and reported pain in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods. Fourteen patients were studied on each of 6 occasions, 2 weeks apart. Measures included daily ratings of mood disturbance, undesirable events, and joint pain; clinical examination of joint swelling; and serum assays of sIL‐2R. Pooled within‐person correlations among these variables were calculated.

Results. Consistent with the results of previous research, joint inflammation covaried directly with sIL‐2R levels. Changes in mood disturbance were unrelated to changes in joint inflammation, but increases in mood disturbance were linked with decreases in sIL‐2R levels and increases in reported joint pain.

Conclusion. These findings provide preliminary evidence that psychoimmune processes may be implicated in short‐term changes in RA disease activity.