bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seasoning of plasma etching reactors: Ion energy distributions to walls and real-time and run-to-run control strategies
Authors: Agarwal Ankur , Kushner Mark J.
Published: May 2008

Wafer-to-wafer process reproducibility during plasma etching often depends on the conditioning of the inside surfaces of the reactor. Passivation of reactor surfaces by plasma generated species, often called seasoning, can change the reactive sticking coefficients of radicals, thereby changing the composition of the radical and ion fluxes to the wafer. Ion bombardment of the walls may influence these processes through activation of surface sites or sputtering, and so the spatial variation of ion energies on the walls is important. These seasoning processes may occur during a single etching process or on a wafer-to-wafer basis. The seasoning of plasma etching reactors will be discussed using results from a computational investigation of p-Si etching in chlorine plasmas. The transport of etch products, passivation of walls, and sputtered products from walls are accounted for, as well as differentiating the ion energy distributions to different surfaces. A real-time, closed-loop control of etch rate to counter the effects of seasoning was achieved using the bias voltage as an actuator.
TELEPARALLEL KILLING VECTORS OF THE EINSTEIN UNIVERSE
Authors: SHARIF M. , AMIR M. JAMIL
Published: May 2008

In this paper we establish the definition of the Lie derivative of a second rank tensor in the context of teleparallel theory of gravity and also extend it for a general tensor of rank p + q. This definition is then used to find Killing vectors of the Einstein universe. It turns out that Killing vectors of the Einstein universe in the teleparallel theory are the same as in general relativity.
ABSENCE OF COEXISTING PHASE OF QUARK–ANTIQUARK AND DIQUARK CONDENSED PHASES IN THE EXTENDED GROSS–NEVEU MODEL IN (2 + 1) DIMENSIONS
Authors: NIÉGAWA AKIRA
Published: May 2008

We show that the coexisting phase of quark–antiquark and diquark condensed phases is absent in the cold quark matter in the (2 + 1)-dimensional extended Gross-Neveu model, which is in sharp contrast to the case of (3 + 1)-dimensional Nambu–Jona-Lasinio model.
The g.763G>C SNP of the bovineFASNgene affects its promoter activity via Sp-mediated regulation: implications for the bovine lactating mammary gland
Authors: Ordovás Laura , Roy Rosa , Pampín Sandra , Zaragoza Pilar , Osta Rosario , Rodríguez-Rey Jose Carlos , Rodellar Clementina
Published: May 2008

Fatty acid synthase (FASN) is an enzyme that catalyzes de novo synthesis of fatty acids in cells. The bovine FASN gene maps to BTA 19, where several quantitative trait loci for fat-related traits have been described. Our group recently reported the identification of a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), g.763G>C, in the bovine FASN 5′ flanking region that was significantly associated with milk fat content in dairy cattle. The g.763G>C SNP was part of a GC-rich region that may constitute a cis element for members of the Sp transcription factor family. Thus the SNP could alter the transcription factor binding ability of the FASN promoter and consequently affect the promoter activity of the gene. However, the functional consequences of the SNP on FASN gene expression are unknown. The present study was therefore directed at elucidating the underlying molecular mechanism that could explain the association of the SNP with milk fat content. Three cellular lines (3T3L1, HepG2, and MCF-7) were used to test the promoter and the transcription factor binding activities by luciferase reporter assays and electrophoretic mobility shift assays, respectively. Band shift assays were also carried out with nuclear extracts from lactating mammary gland (LMG) to further investigate the role of the SNP in this tissue. Our results demonstrate that the SNP alters the bovine FASN promoter activity in vitro and the Sp1/Sp3 binding ability of the sequence. In bovine LMG, the specific binding of Sp3 may account for the association with milk fat content.
Regulation of ZIP and ZnT zinc transporters in zebrafish gill: zinc repression of ZIP10 transcription by an intronic MRE cluster
Authors: Zheng Dongling , Feeney Graham P. , Kille Peter , Hogstrand Christer
Published: May 2008

Resolving the mechanisms underlying the temporal and spatial profile of zinc transporter expression in response to zinc availability is key to understanding zinc homeostasis. The mRNA expression of seven zinc transporters was studied in zebrafish gills when treated with zinc deficiency/excess over a 14-day period. Of these, ZnT1, ZnT5, ZIP3, and ZIP10 were differentially expressed in response to changed zinc status. The mRNA level of zinc exporter, ZnT1, was upregulated in fish subjected to excess zinc and downregulated by zinc deprivation. This response was similar to that of metallothionein-2 (MT2). Zinc deficiency caused an increased abundance of mRNA for zinc importers ZnT5, ZIP3, and ZIP10. Expression of ZnT5 and ZIP10, but not ZIP3, was inhibited by excess zinc. Zinc influx function of ZIP10 was demonstrated by65Zn transport assays in Xenopus oocyte expression experiments, suggesting that the inverse relationship between zinc availability and ZIP10 expression serves to maintain zinc homeostasis. Two distinct transcription start sites (TSS) for ZIP10 were found in gill and kidney. Luciferase assays and mutation/deletion analysis of DNA fragments proximal to the respective TSS revealed that ZIP10 has two alternative promoters (P1 and P2) displaying opposite regulatory control in response to zinc status. Positive as well as negative regulation by zinc involves MRE clusters in the respective promoters. These results provide experimental evidence for MREs functioning as repressor elements, implicating MTF1 involvement in the negative regulation of ZIP10. This is in contrast to the well-established positive regulation by MTF1 of other genes, such as MT2 and ZnT1.
Learning Curve and Preliminary Experience with da Vinci-Assisted Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy
Authors: Artibani Walter , Fracalanza Simonetta , Cavalleri Stefano , Iafrate Massimo , Aragona Maurizio , Novara Giacomo , Gardiman Marina , Ficarra Vincenzo
Published: May 2008

Objective: To report our initial experience in the treatment of prostate cancer with robotic-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RALP), evaluating our results in terms of learning curve, postoperative outcomes and positive surgical margins. Material and Methods: From April 2005 to February 2006, a single surgeon performed 41 RALP using the da Vinci robot (Intuitive Surgical, Inc., Sunnyvale, Calif., USA). Clinical and pathological data were collected prospectively and analyzed by a researcher from outside our clinic. The main perioperative parameters assessed were the following: operative time, blood loss, transfusion rate, conversion rate, intra- and postoperative complications, hospitalization time, catheterization time, and positive surgical margin rate. To evaluate the learning curve, patients were stratified into three groups: from case 1 to 10 (group 1), from case 11 to 20 (group 2), and from case 21 to 41 (group C). Results: Median operative time was 210 min. Mean blood loss was 400 ml, with 9.8% of the patients receiving blood transfusions. Conversion to open surgery occurred in 2 cases (4.9%), while 4 postoperative complications (9.7%) were reported. Median times of hospitalization and catheterization were 7 days. Positive surgical margins were detected in 26.8% of the cases (6.9% among pT2 patients). Operative time (p < 0.001), blood loss (p = 0.02), transfusion rate (p = 0.006), and postoperative complication rates (p = 0.03) reduced along the learning curve. Conclusion: RALP is a feasible and reproducible technique, with a short learning curve and low perioperative complication rate. Even during the initial phase of the learning curve, good results were obtained with regard to postoperative complications and oncological outcome.
Lymphocyte Subsets in Renal Transplant Recipients with de novo Genitourinary Malignancies
Authors: Guichard Guillaume , Rebibou Jean Michel , Ducloux Didier , Simula-Faivre Dominique , Tiberghien Pierre , Chalopin Jean Marc , Bittard Hugues , Saas Philippe , Kleinclauss François
Published: May 2008

Introduction: The incidence of genitourinary tumors (GUT) in renal transplant recipients (RTR) is higher than in the general population. We previously reported that CD4 lymphocytopenia is associated with a high incidence of skin cancer in RTR. Here, we investigate whether persistent CD4 T cell lymphopenia is associated with GUT occurrence. Patients and Methods: A total of 433 patients were included in this study. All patients underwent annually systematic lymphocyte subset (CD3, CD4, CD8, CD19) determination by flow cytometry. Results and Conclusion: During the follow-up period, 13 patients developed GUT: 6 patients a prostate adenocarcinoma (incidence 0.06%/year) and 7 patients a renal cell carcinoma (incidence 0.07%/year). The patients with GUT were older than those without. Both groups did not differ in posttransplant duration, dialysis mode and duration, induction regimen, or acute rejection history. No persistent CD4 lymphopenia was observed in the patients with GUT. Although CD4 T cell lymphopenia is associated with skin cancer in long-term RTR, it did not appear to be a risk factor for GUT. This suggests that other factors encountered in the setting of kidney transplantation (e.g., immunosuppressive drugs, end-stage renal failure, etc.) favor the development of GUT in RTR.
Transobturator Tape in the Management of Female Stress Incontinence: Clinical Outcomes at Medium Term Follow-Up
Authors: Kocjancic E. , Crivellaro S. , Oyama I.A. , Singla A. , Ranzoni S. , Carone R. , Manassero A. , Gontero P. , Frea B.
Published: May 2008

Objective: To assess the efficacy of transobturator tape (TOT) in the management of stress urinary incontinence at a medium term follow-up. Methods: TOT is a polypropylene tape positioned through the obturator foramen. 70 patients with type II urinary stress incontinence were treated with TOT between June 2003 and May 2006. Patients were prospectively studied by physical examination, quality of life questionnaire (I-QOL), visual analog scale, global impression (dry, improved, same, worse), preoperative urodynamic study, and pre- and postoperative flowmetry. Statistical analysis (t test) of the difference in I-QOL scores and flowmetry was made by StatSoft V. 5.1. Results: The average follow-up was 32 (range 12–48) months. The I-QOL score increased statistically significantly by 40 points. The average percent improvement was 80%. 90% (63/70) of the patients were dry and 5% (4/70) were improved. The pre- and postoperative uroflowmetry studies were not statistically different. Vaginal erosion occurred in 4 patients. Conclusion: TOT is a safe procedure with a good efficacy at 32-month follow-up.
Endoscopic Treatment of Vesicoureteral Reflux with Polydimethylsiloxane in Adults: Do Location and Appearance of the Ureteric Orifice Have a Role in the Success Rates?
Authors: Basok Erem K. , Yildirim Asif , Atsu Necmettin , Gocer Serhat , Tokuc Resit
Published: May 2008

Introduction: Low success rate for high grade reflux and anatomical abnormality of ureteric orifices continues to be the most important dilemma of the endoscopic treatment of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR). The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of endoscopic polydimethylsiloxane injection in adults with VUR concerning reflux severity and the status of the ureteric orifice. Materials and Methods: Fifty-three ureters (34 patients) were treated with endoscopic polydimethylsiloxane injection. The grade of VUR was I, II, III, IV and V in 2, 13, 25, 10 and 3 ureters, respectively.Any endoscopic characteristics of ‘golf hole’, broad appearance or lateral placement of ureteric orifices were classified as complex appearance ureters (CAU). Patients with persistent reflux were considered for second and third injections with the same material. Success was determined as no reflux. Results: The total success rate was 100, 92.30, 92, 80 and 66.66% for grade I, II, III, IV and V reflux after the third injection, respectively. The cure rates of ureters with normal appearance were 100, 88.88, 90, 100 and 100% for grade I, II, III, IV and V reflux. The cure rates of CAU were 100% for both grade II and III, 60% for grade IV and 50% for grade V reflux. The injected volumes per renal unit ranged between 0.2 and 3.2 ml (mean 1.05 ml). Conclusions: Although there are disadvantages in the usage of higher volumes of injectable material for successful results and difficulty in subureteral injection both in high grade reflux and complex anatomical situations in adults when compared to children, our results indicate that endoscopic treatment of VUR is an effective therapy for adults.
The Use of Artificial Neural Networks in Decision Support in Vesicoureteral Reflux Treatment
Authors: Seckiner Ilker , Seckiner Serap Ulusam , Erturhan Sakip , Erbagci Ahmet , Solakhan Mehmet , Yagci Faruk
Published: May 2008

Aim: To develop a prediction model based on artificial neural networks (ANN) for the treatment selection in vesicoureteral reflux (VUR). Methods: A total of 96 children with VUR (145 ureteric units (UU)) were treated at our institution during 2004–2006. An ANN based on quick propagation architecture was created with the commercially available software package. The patients’ age and sex, the cause and grade of VUR, the affected ureter, the type of treatment (conservative, subureteric injection, or open surgery), existence of renal scar on DMSA, follow-up times and the number of injections were used as variables. These data were also transferred to a statistical software package and regression analysis was done. Results: In all, 105 UU showed no reflux, 5 UU showed improvements in reflux grade (considered only in the conservative management group), and the remaining 35 UU showed persistence. In the training group (n = 99), ANN showed 98.5% sensitivity, 92.5% specificity, 97% positive predictive value, and 96% negative predictive value in predicting treatment outcome. Conclusions: We have demonstrated that ANN can accurately predict the resolution of VUR, and thus could be useful in daily clinical practice. This approach would allow urologists to aid in the decision-making process of VUR treatment.
Laparoscopic Pyeloplasty with Concomitant Pyelolithotomy – Is It an Effective Mode of Treatment?
Authors: Srivastava Aneesh , Singh Pratipal , Gupta Manu , Ansari M.S. , Mandhani Anil , Kapoor Rakesh , Kumar Anant , Dubey Deepak
Published: May 2008

Introduction: Pelviureteric junction (PUJ) obstruction and concomitant renal calculus disease may coexist. We present our experience with simultaneous laparoscopic pyeloplasty and pyelolithotomy in such patients. Method: 20 patients (20 renal units) underwent transperitoneal laparoscopic pyeloplasty and concomitant pyelolithotomy at our institution. An initial dismembering of the PUJ followed by removal of the calculi with rigid or semi-rigid graspers were done. Calyceal stones were removed with the aid of a flexible cystoscope, rigid/flexible ureteroscope and simultaneous fluoroscopy. The pyeloplasty was subsequently performed in all cases. Result: A median of 2 stones (range 1–12) were recovered from the 20 renal units. Complete stone clearance was possible in 15/20 patients (75%). Three patients underwent subsequent extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy and 2 required percutaneous nephrolithotomy. All patients were rendered stone-free at 6 months’ follow-up. Diuretic renography at follow-up revealed improved drainage in 18/20 (90%) patients; 2 patients had an equivocal drainage pattern but their symptoms disappeared. Conclusion: Laparoscopic pyeloplasty with concomitant pyeloplasty is feasible and effective, however patients must be counseled about the possibilities of ancillary procedures to achieve complete stone clearance.
Fibroepithelial Polyp of Distal Ureter with Periodic Prolapse into Bladder
Authors: Baltogiannis Dimitrios , Kafetsoulis Apostolos , Giannakis Dimitrios , Saito Motoaki , Miyagawa Ikuo , Sofikitis Nikolaos
Published: May 2008

Ureteric fibroepithelial polyp is a rare disease; it is of mesodermal origin and exhibits benign characteristics. Hydronephrosis occurs in rare cases, and it is generally accepted that it may result in an obstruction without causing alterations of renal function. In many cases it is difficult to differentiate from transitional cell carcinomas. Nowadays, endoscopic evaluation is the means of treatment and management. In our case study we report a patient with a long fibroepithelial polyp of the distal ureter prolapsing into the bladder in a periodic pattern. Cystoscopy revealed that movement of the polyp was moving forward and backward in the right ureteric orifice. Cold-cut biopsy established the diagnosis. The patient underwent ureteroscopic excision and remains asymptomatic a year later.
Transnational Family Dynamics, Second Generation and the Ties that Flex: Palestinian Migrants between the United States and the West Bank
Authors: Isotalo Riina
Published: May 2008

This article aims at supplementing the discussions on transnational family life and second generation. More specifically, it aims to look at the consequences of spatially fractured parent-child and kin relations and the years spent in the United States in the encounters between young women and different collectives in Palestine; how background shaped their experiences 'at home'. It also intends to distinguish between different family members and power relations and agency created and sustained through transnational family ties. Second- and third-generation transnational ties and practises are often approached from the perspective of the migration destination country. The present article, however, sheds light to the perspective of country of origin and 'reverse migrants' as Levitt (2002) put it. I refer to these individuals as transmigrants (Basch et al. 1994), return migrants and in some cases returnees. The paper argues that young western-born return migrant women associate with transnational family in shifting and sometimes-ambivalent ways that reflect their responses to gendered and generational forms of incorporation and rejection that female transnationals face in specific societal contexts. The argument implicates that the meanings of transnational family ties and the motives behind transnational practices can change even during a rather short time-span. Yet the forms of transnational practices, such as marriage patterns, may remain seemingly traditional. The paper concludes that transnational family ties are a resource for Palestinian migrants of second and third generation; they remain meaningful even when young transmigrants have a conscious oppositional stand in relation to gender roles and family ideology that these ties imply.
Introduction to the Characterization of God in the Book of Hosea
Authors: Jacobs Mignon
Published: May 2008

This is a brief introduction to the collection of papers delivered at the Israelite Prophetic Literature section on November 18, 2007 at the Society of Biblical Literature Annual Meeting in San Diego, CA. The theme of the section was "Characterization of God in the Book of Hosea."
Interrogating the Violent God of Hosea: A Conversation with Walter Brueggemann, Alice Keefe, and Ehud Ben Zvi
Authors: Sharp Carolyn
Published: May 2008

This essay responds to Brueggemann, Keefe, and Ben Zvi. Commending Brueggemann's discernment of multivocality in Hosea, this response considers his idea of a recovering God in light of rhetorical disjuncture between the brutal God of most of Hosea and the nurturing deity of Hosea 14. Keefe's welcome focus on class-based economic motivations for Hosea's polemics raises a question about the "urban elite male warrior class" that she identifies as responsible for regional economic exploitation; postcolonial notions of hybridity and mimicry are invoked to extend Keefe's analysis. Ben Zvi's argument that Persian-period literati would have been empowered by Hosea's utopian rhetoric is considered; the male rereadership would have been shamed, too, by Hosea's metaphorization of Israel as adulterous woman, and Yehud readers might not have seen the monarchical-era implied audience as discontinuous with themselves. The question is posed as to what role(s) the prophet Hosea might play in the hermeneutical models of Brueggemann, Keefe, and Ben Zvi.
Measurements of Momentum and Heat Transfer across the Air–Sea Interface
Authors: Gerbi Gregory P. , Trowbridge John H. , Edson James B. , Plueddemann Albert J. , Terray Eugene A. , Fredericks Janet J.
Published: May 2008

This study makes direct measurements of turbulent fluxes in the mixed layer in order to close heat and momentum budgets across the air–sea interface and to assess the ability of rigid-boundary turbulence models to predict mean vertical gradients beneath the ocean’s wavy surface. Observations were made at 20 Hz at nominal depths of 2.2 and 1.7 m in ∼16 m of water. A new method is developed to estimate the fluxes and the length scales of dominant flux-carrying eddies from cospectra at frequencies below the wave band. The results are compared to independent estimates of those quantities, with good agreement between the two sets of estimates. The observed temperature gradients were smaller than predicted by standard rigid-boundary closure models, consistent with the suggestion that wave breaking and Langmuir circulation increase turbulent diffusivity in the upper ocean. Similarly, the Monin–Obukhov stability function ϕh was smaller in the authors’ measurements than the stability functions used in rigid-boundary applications of the Monin–Obukhov similarity theory. The dominant horizontal length scales of flux-carrying turbulent eddies were found to be consistent with observations in the bottom boundary layer of the atmosphere and from laboratory experiments in three ways: 1) in statically unstable conditions, the eddy sizes scaled linearly with distance to the boundary; 2) in statically stable conditions, length scales decreased with increasing downward buoyancy flux; and 3) downwind length scales were larger than crosswind length scales.
Development of an Aerosol Retrieval Method: Description and Preliminary Tests
Authors: Carrió G. G. , Cotton W. R. , Zupanski D. , Zupanski M.
Published: May 2008

A cloud-nucleating aerosol retrieval method was developed. It allows the estimation of ice-forming nuclei and cloud condensation nuclei (IFN and CCN) for regions in which boundary layer clouds prevail. The method is based on the assumption that the periodical assimilation of observations into a microscale model leads to an improved estimation of the model state vector (that contains the cloud-nucleating aerosol concentrations). The Colorado State University Cloud Resolving Model (CRM) version of the Regional Atmospheric Modeling System (RAMS@CSU) and the maximum likelihood ensemble filter algorithm (MLEF) were used as the forecast model and the assimilation algorithm, respectively. On the one hand, the microphysical modules of this CRM explicitly consider the nucleation of IFN, CCN, and giant CCN. On the other hand, the MLEF provides an important advantage because it is defined to address highly nonlinear problems, employing an iterative minimization of a cost function. This paper explores the possibility of using an assimilation technique with microscale models. These initial series of experiments focused on isolating the model response and showed that data assimilation enhanced its performance in simulating a mixed-phase Arctic boundary layer cloud. Moreover, the coupled model was successful in reproducing the presence of an observed polluted air mass above the inversion.
Mount Kenya Global Atmosphere Watch Station (MKN): Installation and Meteorological Characterization
Authors: Henne Stephan , Junkermann Wolfgang , Kariuki Josiah M. , Aseyo John , Klausen Jörg
Published: May 2008

The meteorological conditions at the Mount Kenya (station identifier MKN) tropical Global Atmosphere Watch Programme station are described. Like other stations in mountainous terrain, the site experiences thermally induced wind systems that disturb free tropospheric conditions. Therefore, the adequacy of the site for long-term background atmospheric composition measurements needs to be evaluated. Meteorological parameters for the period June 2002–June 2006 were analyzed, focusing on the development of thermally induced wind systems and boundary layer influence. Filters based on the local wind and day–night differences in specific humidity were developed for selection of times representative of undisturbed free tropospheric conditions. In addition, the convective boundary layer depth was evaluated. Throughout the whole year the station is influenced by thermally induced wind systems and the atmospheric boundary layer. The filters distinguished between thermally and synoptically influenced days. Thermally influenced days (86%) dominated. However, maxima in specific humidity were also reached in the afternoon on synoptically influenced days and were attributed to mixing in the convective boundary layer. During nighttime, downslope wind dominated that carries undisturbed free tropospheric air masses. Nevertheless, during 24% of all nights the specific humidity was also elevated, possibly indicating the presence of residual layers. It is recommended that nighttime data only (2100–0400 UTC) be used for analysis of long-term trends of the free tropospheric background while the remaining data can be used to characterize composition and trends of the regional atmospheric boundary layer. Further exclusion of apparent pollution events and residual layer influence should be considered. With these constraints, the Mount Kenya Global Atmosphere Watch site is adequate for the study of trends and budgets of background atmospheric composition.
Spatially Distributed Measurements of Platform Motion for the Correction of Ship-Based Turbulent Fluxes
Authors: Brooks Ian M.
Published: May 2008

A method for determining the angular offsets between measurement axes for multiple motion sensing systems and a sonic anemometer using underway data is demonstrated. This enables a single angular rate sensor to be used with spatially separated accelerometers, collocated with sonic anemometers, for the motion correction of turbulence measurements on a mobile platform such as a ship. Effective motion correction of turbulence measurements at sea is demonstrated. The errors in instrument alignment are considered, and estimates are made of the resulting biases in wind stress estimates.
Correction of Humidity Bias for Vaisala RS80-A Sondes during the AMMA 2006 Observing Period
Authors: Nuret Mathieu , Lafore Jean-Philippe , Guichard Françoise , Redelsperger Jean-Luc , Bock Olivier , Agusti-Panareda Anna , N’Gamini Jean-Blaise
Published: May 2008

During the African Monsoon Multidisciplinary Analyses (AMMA) program, which included a special observing period that took place over West Africa in 2006, a major effort was devoted to monitor the atmosphere and its water cycle. The radiosonde network was upgraded and enhanced, and GPS receivers deployed. Among all sondes released in the atmosphere, a significant number were Vaisala RS80-A sondes, which revealed a significant dry bias relative to Vaisala RS92 (a maximum of 14% in the lower atmosphere, reaching 20% in the upper levels). This paper makes use of a simple but robust statistical approach to correct the bias. Comparisons against independent GPS data show that the bias is almost removed at night, whereas for daytime conditions, a weak dry bias (5%) still remains. The correction enhances CAPE by a factor of about 4 and, thus, becomes much more in line with expected values over the region.
Measuring the Effect of “Ethnicity”
Authors: Chandra Kanchan , Wilkinson Steven
Published: May 2008

Most tests of hypotheses about the effects of “ethnicity” on outcomes use data or measures that confuse or conflate what are termed ethnic structure and ethnic practice. This article presents a conceptualization of ethnicity that makes the distinction between these concepts clear; it demonstrates how confusion between structure and practice hampers the ability to test theories; and it presents two new measures of ethnic practice—ECI (the ethnic concentration index) and EVOTE (the percentage of the vote obtained by ethnic parties)—that illustrate the pay-offs of making this distinction and collecting data accordingly, using examples from the civil war literature.
Enhancement of Mechanical and Ferroelectric Properties by Adding Ag Nano-Particles to PZT Matrix
Authors: Song Y.C. , Soh A.K.
Published: May 2008

In the present study, detailed and systematic characterization on the small percentage silver particle reinforced piezoelectric nano-composites were presented. PZT/Ag nano-composties were fabricated with quite small quantity of silver added, which is about 0—1% in weight or equivalently 0~0.73% in volume fraction. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was employed to observe the microstructure of the composites fabricated. Mechanical and ferroelectric properties, including Young's modulus, hardness, hysteresis, and butterfly loops, were measured to investigate the effects of silver nano-particles on the properties of the nano-composites. The SEM observations showed the modified microstructure of decreased porosity and increased grain size, which led to a significant improvement of both the mechanical and ferroelectric properties.
Bismaleimides (1,3-Bismaleimidobenzene and 1,1'-bis(4-Maleimidophenyl) Cyclohexane) Modified Polyethersulfone/Epoxy Matrices for Engineering Applications
Authors: Rajasekaran Rajangam , Alagar Muthukaruppan
Published: May 2008

Bismaleimides (BMI) modified polyethersulfone (PES)-epoxy interpenetrating networks were developed. Epoxy systems modified with 4%, 8%, and 12% (by wt) of polyethersulfone were made by using epoxy resin (DGEBA) and polyethersulfone with diaminodiphenylmethane as curing agent. The polyethersulfone-toughened epoxy systems were further modified with 4%, 8%, and 12% (by wt) of bismaleimides, namely 1,3-bismaleimiobenzene and 1,1'-bis(4-maleimidophenyl) cyclohexane. BMI-PES—Epoxy matrices were characterized using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and heat deflection temperature (HDT) analysis. The DSC thermograms of polyethersulfone-modified epoxy and BMI-modified epoxy during cure show unimodal reaction exotherms. The studies indicate that thermal stability and resistance to water absorption of epoxy resin has been enhanced by the introduction of polyethersulfone. The incorporation of bismaleimide into unmodified epoxy and PES—epoxy enhanced the thermal and mechanical properties according to its percentage content. The morphologies of fractured surfaces of modified epoxy systems were compared with that of unmodified epoxy system.
Fiber Length and Orientation in Long-Fiber Injection-Molded Thermoplastics — Part I: Modeling of Microstructure and Elastic Properties
Authors: Nguyen Ba Nghiep , Bapanapalli Satish K. , Holbery James D. , Smith Mark T. , Kunc Vlastimil , Frame Barbara J. , Phelps Jay H. , Tucker Charles L.
Published: May 2008

This article develops a methodology to predict the elastic properties of long-fiber injection-molded thermoplastics (LFTs). The corrected experimental fiber length distribution and the predicted and experimental orientation distributions were used in modeling to compute the elastic properties of the composite. First, from the fiber length distribution (FLD) data in terms of number of fibers versus fiber length, the probability density functions were built and used in the computation. The two-parameter Weibull's distribution was also used to represent the actual FLD. Next, the Mori—Tanaka model that employs the Eshelby's equivalent inclusion method was applied to calculate the stiffness matrix of the aligned fiber composite containing the established FLD. The stiffness of the actual as-formed composite was then determined from the stiffness of the computed aligned fiber composite that was averaged over all possible orientations using the orientation averaging method. The methodology to predict the elastic properties of LFTs was validated via experimental verification of the longitudinal and transverse moduli determined for long glass fiber injection-molded polypropylene specimens. Finally, a sensitivity analysis was conducted to determine the effect of a variation of FLD on the composite elastic properties. Our analysis shows that it is essential to obtain an accurate fiber orientation distribution and a realistic fiber length distribution to accurately predict the composite properties.
Finite Element Based Method to Predict Gas Permeability in Cross-ply Laminates
Authors: Jianlong Xu  , Sankar Bhavani V. , Bapanapalli Satish
Published: May 2008

A finite-element based method is developed to predict gas permeability in cross-ply laminates. Based on Poiseuille's Law and Darcy's Law, the gas permeability is presented in terms of crack densities, microcrack opening displacements and an experimentally determined constant. The crack densities in each ply are predicted using finite element analysis based on energy concept of micro-fracture mechanics. The microcrack opening displacement of the representative volume element in cross-ply laminate is computed using three-dimensional finite element analysis. The normalized gas permeability in three laminates with different lay-ups are predicted and compared using the current model. Finally, a permeability-related material constant is quantified using the experimental results available in the literature.
Humanitarian Relief and Civil Conflict
Authors: Blouin Max , Pallage Stéphane
Published: May 2008

The authors examine the effects that famine relief efforts (food aid) can have in regions undergoing civil war. In the model, warlords seize a fraction of all aid entering the region. How much they can loot affects their choice of army size; therefore the manner in which aid is delivered influences warfare. The authors identify a delivery plan for aid that minimizes total recruitment in equilibrium.
Using Cultural and Social Capital to Improve Postsecondary Outcomes and Expand Transition Models for Youth With Disabilities
Authors: Trainor Audrey A.
Published: May 2008

The terms cultural and social capital, conceptualized by education philosopher and researcher Pierre Bourdieu, play an important role in the lives of youth with disabilities during transition into adulthood. Although research, legislation, and practice acknowledge the importance of resources that are established via social networks, insufficient attention has been dedicated to the forms of capital possessed by young adults with disabilities or to teachers' expectations of the role of capital in achieving postsecondary outcomes. Studies of capital inform postsecondary transition research and practice in key areas including self-determination, parent participation, access to appropriate curriculum, and linkages to adult services. Expanding the foci of postsecondary transition to include the study of capital may increase the efficacy of transition planning and instruction for youth with disabilities from other marginalized groups.
Examining the Impacts of Early Reading Intervention on the Growth Rates in Basic Literacy Skills of At-Risk Urban Kindergarteners
Authors: Lo Ya-yu , Chuang Wang  , Haskell Sherry
Published: May 2008

This study investigated the effects of the Scott Foresman Early Reading Intervention (ERI) on growth rates in the early literacy skills of urban at-risk kindergarten students. Students participated in one of three groups: treatment-intensive/ strategic, treatment-benchmark, and nontreatment-benchmark. Treatment group students received a 30-minute ERI program from classroom teachers 3 days a week for 5 to 14 weeks. Using multivariate analysis of variance and the hierarchical linear model, the authors compared students' benchmark and progress monitoring scores on the Phoneme Segmentation Fluency (PSF) and Nonsense Word Fluency (NWF) subtests of the Dynamic Indicators of Basic Literacy Skills™. Results indicated that PSF and NWF benchmark performance gaps decreased between the treatment-intensive/ strategic and nontreatment-benchmark groups, indicating beneficial effects for the ERI. Additionally, the PSF and NWF progress monitoring growth rates of treatment group students during the ERI program were significantly higher than rates before treatment. Implications of early reading interventions for urban at-risk students are discussed.
The Biochemistry of Antioxidants Revisited
Authors: Clark Susan F.
Published: May 2008

Biochemical relationships between oxidative stress, antioxidant nutrients, and chronic diseases are complicated and often conflicting. Basic research supports the concept that reactive oxygen species precipitate changes that result in oxidative damage to lipid, protein, and DNA biomolecules. Oxidative stress is implicated in the development of cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, sepsis, various eye diseases, and neurologic conditions. Supplementation with antioxidant nutrients seems plausible to counter the effects of oxidative stress, but the preferred mode of delivery for these nutrients may be through the patient's diet rather than as supplements to the diet. In fact, evidence supporting consumption of at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables continues to grow. To better understand the role of antioxidant nutrients in disease promotion or prevention, this review will discuss basic nutritional biochemistry relating to oxidative stress and antioxidant defense systems, followed by a discussion of the metabolism (vitamins E, C, A) and interrelationships of select antioxidant nutrients.
Methods of Assessing Energy Expenditure in the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Malone Ainsley M.
Published: May 2008

An essential component in developing the nutrition support plan for hospitalized patients is evaluating energy requirements. Assessing energy expenditure (EE) and identifying requirements in the critically ill patient present the clinician with a challenge; how to prevent overfeeding and minimize underfeeding? Both under‐ and overfeeding have been associated with increased morbidity and mortality. It is known that critical illness alters EE. This alteration is hormonally mediated and is characterized by changes in metabolic processes. Methods used by clinicians to assess EE in the critically ill patient vary significantly. It is the purpose of this review to outline the various methods for evaluating EE in critical illness with emphasis on their benefits and limitations.
Enteral vs Parenteral Nutrition After Major Abdominal Surgery: An Even Match
Authors: Bossola M , Pacelli F , Papa V.
Published: May 2008

Hypothesis: Immediate enteral feeding following major abdominal surgery reduces postoperative complications and mortality when compared with parenteral nutrition. Design: A prospective multicenter randomized trial. Setting: A university hospital department of digestive surgery. Patients and Interventions: Two hundred forty‐one malnourished patients undergoing major elective abdominal surgery were randomly assigned to receive, after surgery, either enteral (enteral nutrition group: 119 patients) or parenteral nutrition (total parenteral nutrition group: 122 patients). The patients were monitored for postoperative complications and mortality. Results: The rate of major postoperative complications was similar in the enteral and parenteral groups (enteral nutrition group: 37.8%; total parenteral nutrition group: 39.3%; P was not significant), as were the overall postoperative mortality rates (5.9% and 2.5%, respectively; P was not significant). Conclusions: The present study failed to demonstrate that enteral feeding following major abdominal surgery reduces postoperative complications and mortality when compared with parenteral nutrition.
Short Bowel Syndrome in the Elderly
Authors: Thompson Jon S.
Published: May 2008

Background: The need for massive intestinal resection in the elderly presents an ethical dilemma. The mortality rate for elderly patients who undergo this procedure is high, and quality of life with the short bowel syndrome (SBS) in this group is often questioned. This study evaluated the clinical outcome of patients >70 years of age who underwent intestinal resection leading to SBS. Methods: This was a retrospective study of 23 patients ranging in age from 70 to 92 years, who were evaluated over a 20‐year period. Results: There were 11 (48%) early postoperative deaths. Parenteral nutrition (PN) was required for 8 of 12 discharged patients. Five (63%) of the 8 remained on PN permanently, and 3 were transitioned to enteral nutrition (EN). Three patients (PN = 2, EN = 1) died within a year of resection. Four (67%) of 6 patients surviving 5 years received EN only. Five of 10 patients with remnant length <120 cm were discharged, all on PN. PN was later discontinued in 2 patients. Seven (54%) of 13 patients with remnants > 120 cm were discharged; 3 of the 7 remained on PN. Resection was performed for mesenteric vascular disease (n = 13), radiation or cancer (n = 6), and other benign conditions (n = 4). Underlying diagnosis did not influence mortality rate or need for PN. Intestinal continuity was restored in 3 of the 8 patients discharged with an ostomy. Stricturoplasty was performed in 2 patients to improve intestinal function. Conclusions: Massive resection in the elderly has a high early mortality rate. Long‐term survival is achieved in 50% of discharged patients, especially if they can transition to full EN. Nutritional prognosis is influenced by remnant length more than by underlying disease. Despite their advanced age, these patients are often candidates for further surgical procedures to improve intestinal function.
Enteral Formula Use in Children After Small Bowel Transplant
Authors: Nucci Anita M. , Barksdale Edward M. , Yaworski Jane Anne , Beserock Natalie , Reyes Jorge
Published: May 2008

The ultimate goal of intestinal transplantation (ITx) is the maintenance of nutritional status enterally/orally. We retrospectively identified children who had received ITx since the inception of our Intestinal Care Center in December 1996 (n = 24; median age, 2.6 years). Two patients died within 2 months of transplant. Enteral formulas used in the remaining 22 patients included the following: amino acid, trace long chain fatty acids (LCT; n = 4); amino acid, medium chain fatty acids (MCT)/LCT fat mix (n = 13); amino acid, LCT fat (n = 1); and peptide, MCT/LCT fat mix (n = 3). Feedings were initiated on an average of 13 days after ITx. The median number of days to complete the total parenteral nutrition (TPN) wean was 30 days, and stoma output measured on an average of 37 mL/kg per day at 1 month posttransplant. Nine patients (41%) advanced to oral intake alone within 2 to 30 months, and 5 patients (23%) were diagnosed with milk allergy through the RAST test (Pharmacia, Uppsala, Sweden). No differences in the initiation of therapy, advancement to oral intake, stoma output, or TPN weaning were observed by the type of formula used. Using z‐score statistics, positive linear growth was achieved in 7 of 21 children (33%) over the 1‐year period, whereas linear growth velocity was maintained in an additional 6 patients (29%). Successful advancement to total enteral/oral intake and positive growth after ITx can be achieved with either an amino acid– or peptide‐based, partial MCT enteral formula initiated within 2 weeks of transplant. Monitoring for posttransplant allergy is recommended because of the high rate of postoperative allergy symptomology.
Clinical, Social and Rehabilitation Status of Long‐Term Home Parenteral Nutrition Patients: Results of a European Multicentre Survey
Authors: van Gossum A , Vahedi K , Abdel‐Malik
Published: May 2008

Background: Home parenteral nutrition (HPN) is a lifesaving treatment in patients with intestinal failure. Dependency of nutritional support becomes permanent for the majority of patients who had received HPN for at least 2 years. The alternative to long term HPN in selected patients is intestinal transplantation. Aims: To study some of the clinical, social and rehabilitation aspects of long‐term HPN treatment. Methods: A survey was performed in nine European HPN centres. The questionnaire covered epidemiologic data, underlying diseases, intestinal anatomy, nutritional support and status, marital status, rehospitalization rate, HPN complications, rehabilitation score, drugs use, coexistent diseases and interest in intestinal transplantation. For some items, data were collected within 12 months prior to the evaluation. Results: This survey included 228 patients with a median age of 49 years. The median duration of HPN was 7 years (range 2–24 years). Short bowel length less than 100 cm was reported in 65% of patients with a predominance of end‐jejunostomy or jejuno‐colonic anastomosis. Global subjective nutritional status was normal in 79% of the patients, who were supplied with a mean number of 5.6 bags of parenteral nutrition weekly. Rehospitalizations within the 12 months prior to evaluation accounted for a mean period of 23 days and were due to HPN complications in half of the cases. Catheter‐related sepsis was the most frequent HPN‐complication. Bone metabolism disorders, which seemed to be more common than liver diseases, were directly related to HPN duration. One‐third of the HPN patients was regularly consuming analgesics or opiates. HPN impair complete rehabilitation status but may improve the status of patients who had a very low rehabilitation score before starting HPN. An interest of intestinal transplantation was noted in only 10% of medical teams and in 8% of HPN patients. Conclusions: This study is the largest European survey on long‐term HPN patients with long standing or permanent intestinal failure. Data enlighten clinical, social and rehabilitation aspects of patients who could face the option of intestinal transplantation in the future.
Evaluating the Effectiveness of a Micronutrient Assessment Tool for Long‐Term Total Parenteral Nutrition Patients
Authors: Falk Aimee
Published: May 2008

Monitoring parameters for patients receiving long‐term home parenteral nutrition (HPN) should include assessment of micronutrient status to avoid deficiencies and potential excesses of any micronutrient. This evaluation examined the effectiveness of a standardized micronutrient assessment tool administered semiannually to long‐term HPN consumers, for identifying signs/symptoms of a suspected deficiency or excess. All patients assessed were receiving long‐term HPN from a single home‐infusion provider. Of the 275 micronutrient assessments evaluated, 30 patients were found to have a suspected deficiency. Laboratory tests were ordered for 13 patients: deficiencies were confirmed in 6 patients, no deficiency was found in 4 patients, and 1 patient was not deficient in the suspected micronutrients but was found deficient in others. The micronutrient assessment tool is effective in determining the suspected presence of micronutrient deficiencies. All long‐term HPN patients should receive ongoing monitoring by a home care clinician, including an assessment of micronutrient status, to ensure adequacy of the nutrition support regimen.