bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Database as Symbolic Form
Authors: Manovich Lev
Published: October 2006

After the novel, and subsequently cinema, privileged narrative as the key form of cultural expression of the modern age, the computer age introduces its correlate - database. Many new media objects do not tell stories; they don't have a beginning or end; in fact, they don't have any development, thematically, formally or otherwise which would organise their elements into a sequence. Instead, they are collections of individual items, where every item has the same significance as any other. Why do new media favour database form over others? Can we explain its popularity by analysing the specificity of the digital medium and computer programming? What is the relationship between database and another form, which has traditionally dominated human culture - narrative? In addressing these questions, the article discusses the connection between the computer's ontology - the way the computer's organisation of data represents the world - and the new cultural forms privileged by computer culture such as database. Saussure's notions of the paradigm and the syntagm are used to theorise the relationship between database and narrative. A possible history of a database form in modern media and culture in general is sketched. The last part of the article addreses the tension between database and narrative in the history of cinema. It considers the works of such filmmakers as Peter Greenaway and Dziga Vertov as part of the tradition which can be called 'database cinema'. This cinema tries to merge databases and narrative into a new form, thus anticipating one of the key problems of new media art.
From BBC Newsroom to BBC Newscentre : On Changing Technology and Journalist Practices
Authors: Cottle Simon , Ashton Mark
Published: October 2006

New communication technologies, digitalisation and technological convergence along with multi-skilling and multi-media production are now contributing to the transformation of broadcast news production. To date, the role of technology within news production has received relatively little theoretical study. This article, based on empirical research findings from a case study of a major multi-media BBC newscentre piloting the latest digital news technologies, challenges the technological myopia and technological determinism that variously inform academic and practitioner accounts of changing news technology and demonstrates how technologies of news production are in fact socially and culturally shaped and embedded within corporate and professional contexts and practices. Based upon in-house documents, interviews and participant observation the authors' findings endorse normative concerns about the increasingly pressurised and superficial nature of multi-skilled, multi-media news production and its impact upon news output.
Between Culture and Commerce
Authors: Steemers Jeanette
Published: October 2006

Drawing on examples from the UK (BBC) and Germany (ARD and ZDF) this paper explores the problems of redefining publicly funded public service broadcasting in the light of plans for digital expansion and attempts either to tap into or increase supplementary commercial sources of funding. An analysis of reactions to the prospect of a digital future reveals that the BBC has been given more freedom to pursue its digital and commercial ambitions than its German counterparts, but that the activities of both have raised concerns about the definition of PSB, the extent of its activities, and its ability to separate core public service activities from commercial activities. The paper argues that in redefining PSB, it is difficult to reconcile cultural and market objectives, and that the situation is further complicated by the involvement of the European Union and its concern for fair trading and competition.
From The Ashes
Authors: Crowdy Denis , Hayward Philip
Published: October 2006

Over the last decade, a series of publications - such as, most notably, Steve Jones's Rock Formations (1992),1 Michael Chanan's Repeated Takes (1995)2 and Paul Théberge's Any Sound You Can Imagine (1997)3 - have offered accounts of the impact of various technological innovations on contemporary music culture. Almost without exception, they have advanced their analyses with near-total reliance on examples drawn from the North Atlantic core of the Western music industry. To date, the impact of various technologies on the music cultures and industries of the rest of the planet have been little examined. While these cultures and industries may 'lag behind' their better-facilitated western counterparts in terms of provision of new equipment and associated creative and industrial practices, the impact of new technologies on these territories is just as marked and complex as it is in the West.
Interface Design
Authors: Newland Paul
Published: October 2006

In this paper I present a general outline of those parts of Gregory Bateson's work which appear relevant to building a questioning framework for appropriate analysis of interface design. A grounding in his fundamental philosophy is given first as a means to set the stage and become familiar with his approach to perceiving the environments in which we find ourselves. This is followed by a review of his theory of types of learning which shows how individuals gain knowledge through various levels of corrective strategies. From this body of Bateson's theory I draw forth a set of heuristics appropriate for critical analysis of interface design. Finally I use these heuristics on a particular case study to illicit both the strengths and weaknesses of the interface involved and those of the heuristics themselves.
Adolescent Girls' Expression on Web Home Pages
Authors: Stern Susannah R.
Published: October 2006

This exploratory study examined the potential of the internet to furnish new forums for girls' self-expression. Although many scholars concur that girls benefit from access to safe spaces where they feel comfortable expressing themselves, such sites have historically been sparse. The World Wide Web (WWW) now allows those with access and expertise to construct personal home pages to present their thoughts to a geographically removed, anonymous, yet potentially global public. This qualitative study describes adolescent girls' expression on their web home pages. Three general tones captured the diversity of self-expression on girls' home pages; these tones were labelled spirited, sombre, and self-conscious. Tones were differentiated by their presentation style, content, and degree of self-disclosure. In addition to extensive description of the girls' home pages, the web's potential as a new 'safe space' for girls' self-expression is discussed.
'The Vision Thing'
Authors: Valentine Gill , Holloway Sarah
Published: October 2006

In this paper we begin by outlining the Government's vision of ICT and education, arguing that this is a deeply determinist vision which severs technology from the context of social practice. For example, it ignores the importance of the specificities of time and place, how ICT is promoted and made sense of in different contexts, the intentions of different users, how it becomes attached to particular agendas and so on. Drawing on three case studies, we go on to examine what happens when schools and technology are brought together in practice. In doing so we argue that, counter to the Government's vision, technology does not simply impinge on society from outside or follow a predetermined course but rather that ICT emerges as a very different tool in different communities of practice as the place, schools, teachers, children, community and technology mutually enrol, constitute and order each other.
NSAID injury to the gastrointestinal tract: evidence that NSAIDs interact with phospholipids to weaken the hydrophobic surface barrier and induce the formation of unstable pores in membranes
Authors: Lichtenberger Lenard M , Zhou Yong , Dial Elizabeth J , Raphael Robert M
Published: October 2006

In this review, we have discussed our current understanding of the barrier properties that are in place to protect the upper gastrointestinal mucosa from luminal acid, and the pathogenic mechanism by which nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) induce injury to the gastrointestinal tract. The changes in our view of the importance of NSAID-induced cyclo-oxygenase (COX) inhibition on the pathogenesis and prevention of NSAID-induced gastrointestinal injury is presented. The focus of this paper has been placed on the effects of NSAIDs on the mucosal surface, and specifically the effect of these powerful drugs in inducing changes in the hydrophobicity, fluidity, biomechanical and permeability properties of extracellular and membrane phospholipids. Lastly, recent evidence is presented that salicylic acid and related NSAIDs may alter the stability of membranes, inducing the formation of unstable pores that may lead to back-diffusion of luminal acid and membrane rupture. This understanding of the interaction of NSAIDs with membrane phos-pholipids may prove valuable in the design of novel NSAID formulations with reduced gastrointestinal side-effects.
Intranasal midazolam: a comparison of two delivery devices in human volunteers
Authors: Dale Ola , Nilsen Turid , Loftsson Thorsteinn , Tønnesen Hanne Hjorth , Klepstad Pål , Kaasa Stein , Holand Trond , Djupesland Per G
Published: October 2006

Bidirectional nasal drug delivery is a new administration principle with improved deposition pattern that may increase nasal drug uptake. Twelve healthy subjects were included in this open, non-randomized 3-way crossover study: midazolam (3.4 mg) intravenously (1 mg mL−1), or nasally by bidirectional or traditional spray (2 × 100 μL of a 17 mg mL−1 nasal midazolam formulation). The primary outcome was bioavailability. Blood samples were drawn for 6 h for determination (gas-chromatography-mass-spectrometry) of midazolam and 1-OH-midazolam. Pharmacokinetic calculations were based on non-compartmental modelling, sedation assessed by a subjective 0–10 NRS-scale, and nasal dimensions by non-invasive acoustic rhinometry. Mean bioavailabilities were 0.68-0.71, and Tmax 15 min for the sprays, which also were bioequivalent (ratio geometric means (90%) CI: 97.6% (90% CI 83.5; 113.9)). Sedation after bidirectional spray followed intravenous sedation closely, while sedation after the traditional spray was less pronounced. A negative correlation between Cmax and smallest cross-sectional area was seen. Adverse effects such as local irritation did not differ significantly between the sprays. Apparently bidirectional delivery did not increase systemic bioavailability of midazolam. We cannot disregard that only the traditional spray caused less sedation than intravenous administration. This finding needs to be confirmed in trials designed for this purpose.
Fast-dissolving microparticles fail to show improved oral bioavailability
Authors: Wong S M , Kellaway I W , Murdan S
Published: October 2006

Oral dosage forms are the preferred means of delivering drugs for systemic absorption. However, development problems occur for drugs with poor water solubility and/or gastrointestinal permeability. It is generally believed that the in-vivo bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drugs from Class II of the Biopharmaceutics Classification System can be improved by increasing the dissolution rate. We have attempted to increase the in-vivo oral bioavailability of a model Class II drug (griseofulvin) by preparing rapidly-dissolving particles. The solvent-diffusion method was used to prepare particles with hydrophilic surfactants (Brij 76/Tween 80 surfactant blend) and in-vivo studies were conducted in rats. The griseofulvin particles produced were bipyramidal in habit with a particle size of 2.18 ± 0.12 mm; they contained crystalline drug and a relatively large proportion (12% w/w) of hydrophilic surfactant. The latter and the small particle size ensured rapid particle dispersion and dissolution in-vitro. Thus, within 30 min of the in-vitro dissolution test, the bipyramidal particles had released ∼70% of drug compared with ∼10% from the starting material (particle size 12.61 ± 1.11 μm). However, the rapid and increased drug dissolution in-vitro was not translated to rapid and enhanced absorption in-vivo, and the oral bioavailability of the model drug was found to be the same from the control and from the bipyramidal particles. The poor in-vivo performance of the bipyramidal particles showed that although the dissolution rate of a Class II drug is thought to be a good indicator of its in-vivo bioavailability, this is not always the case.
Decreased B16F10 melanoma growth and impaired tumour vascularization in BDF1 mice with quercetin-cyclodextrin binary system
Authors: Kale Rajendrakumar , Saraf Madhusudan , Juvekar Aarti , Tayade Pralhad
Published: October 2006

The aim of this work was to study the inclusion behaviour of a poorly water-soluble bioflavonoid, quercetin, towards sulfobutyl ether-7β-cyclodextrin. It also involves angiogenesis inhibition in-vivo in addition to in-vitro human cancer cell growth inhibition study of quercetin and its cyclodextrin complex. Drug-cyclodextrin solid inclusion complexes were prepared and characterized in solution and in the solid state. An in-vitro anti-proliferation study using plain drug and its solubilized form was carried out on human cancer cell lines of different origin. Further, an in-vivo tumour growth inhibition study was carried out using a mouse melanoma model. Histological sections of tumours were examined for the evaluation of tumour microvessel density. Significant enhancement of the solubility and dissolution rate of the quercetin, which occurred after complexation, might be attributed to the decrease in crystallinity of drug. SBE7βCD complex of quercetin was more potent for inhibiting cell proliferation in human erythroleukaemia and cervix cancer cells. Decreased tumour microvessel density in mouse melanoma after oral quercetin administration led to diminished tumour cell proliferation. Quercetin-SBE7βCD complex showed significantly improved anti-cancer activity at much lower concentration than the plain drug, providing evidence for dose reduction without affecting therapeutic efficacy when using cyclodextrin carriers.
Protective effect of rutin on lipids, lipoproteins, lipid metabolizing enzymes and glycoproteins in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats
Authors: Prince P Stanely Mainzen , Kannan N K
Published: October 2006

The protective role of rutin on lipids, lipoproteins, lipid metabolizing enzymes and glycoproteins in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats has been studied. A single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (50 mg kg−1) to rats led to a significant (P < 0.05) increase in the levels of lipids (cholesterol, triglycerides, free fatty acids and phospholipids) in plasma and tissues (liver, kidney, heart and brain). The levels of low density and very low density lipoprotein (LDL and VLDL, respectively) cholesterol were increased, whereas the levels of high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol were decreased significantly (P < 0.05) in plasma. The activity of 3-hydroxy 3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG CoA) reductase increased significantly (P < 0.05) in liver, kidney and heart, and the activity of lipoprotein lipase (LPL) and lecithin cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) decreased significantly (P < 0.05) in the plasma of diabetic rats. Streptozotocin injection also increased the levels of glycoproteins such as hexose, hexosamine, fucose and sialic acid in plasma, liver and kidney. Oral administration of rutin to streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats significantly (P < 0.05) decreased the levels of lipids in plasma and tissues. The levels of plasma HDL-cholesterol increased and the levels of LDL- and VLDL-cholesterol decreased significantly (P < 0.05). The activity of HMG CoA reductase decreased in the tissues and the activity of plasma LPL and LCAT increased significantly (P < 0.05). The levels of glycoproteins were found to be significantly (P < 0.05) decreased in plasma, liver and kidney of rutin-treated diabetic rats. Rutin administration to normal rats did not exhibit any significant (P < 0.05) changes in any of the parameters studied. In conclusion, the beneficial effect of rutin on lipids, lipoproteins, lipid metabolizing enzymes and glycoproteins could be due to its antioxidant property.
D-chiro-Inositol found in Cucurbita ficifolia (Cucurbitaceae) fruit extracts plays the hypoglycaemic role in streptozocin-diabetic rats
Authors: Xia Tao , Wang Qin
Published: October 2006

Cucurbita ficifolia is commonly used as an antihyperglycaemic agent in Asia. However, the mechanism of its action is unknown. Chemically synthesized D-chiro-inositol (D-CI), a component of an insulin mediator, has been demonstrated to have antihyperglycaemic effects in rats. In this study, we found that C. ficifolia contained fairly high levels of D-CI, thus, C. ficifolia may be a natural source of D-CI for reducing blood glucose concentrations in diabetics. We evaluated C. ficifolia fruit extract, containing D-CI, for its antihyperglycaemic effect in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Oral administration of C. ficifolia fruit extract containing 10 or 20 mg D-CI kg−1 body weight for 30 days resulted in significantly lowered levels of blood glucose, and increased levels of hepatic glycogen, total haemoglobin and plasma insulin. An oral glucose tolerance test was performed in fasted diabetic and normal rats, in which there was a significant improvement in blood glucose tolerance in the diabetic rats treated with C. ficifolia fruit extract. The effects were compared with 20 mg kg−1 body weight chemically synthesized D-CI. Findings from this study demonstrated that C. ficifolia fruit extract was an effective source of D-CI for its hypoglycaemic effects in rats, and therefore may be useful in the treatment of diabetes.
N, N‘ (4,5-Dihydro-1H-imidazol-2-yl)3-aza-1, 10-decane-diamine and N, N’(4,5-dihydro-1H-imidazol-2-yl)3-aza-1, 10-dodecane-diamine antagonize cell proliferation as selective ligands towards topoisomerase II
Authors: Filosa Rosanna , Buonerba Mariafrancesca , Loddo Roberta , Busonera Bernardetta , La Colla Paolo , Saturnino Carmela
Published: October 2006

New alkyl imidazoline derivatives have been synthesized as potential anticancer agents. The anti-4 proliferative activity of these compounds, evaluated against representative human haematological and solid neoplastic cell lines, showed that N, N′-di (4,5-dihydro-1H-imidazol-2-yl)3-aza-1,10-decanediamine (8) and N, N′-di (4,5-dihydro-1H-imidazol-2-yl)3-aza-1,10-dodecane-diamine (9) were the most active compounds; in fact, they inhibited the cell proliferation at submicromolar concentrations. In enzyme assays, compound 9 turned out to be an inhibitor of topoisomerase II at concentrations comparable with those of the reference topoisomerase II inhibitor, etoposide.
Reduction of ciclosporin and tacrolimus nephrotoxicity by plant polyphenols
Authors: Zhong Zhi , Connor Henry D , Li Xiangli , Mason Ronald P , Forman Donald T , Lemasters John J , Thurman Ronald G
Published: October 2006

The immunosuppressants ciclosporin (cyclosporin A, CsA) and tacrolimus can cause severe nephrotoxicity. Since CsA increases free radical formation, this study investigated whether an extract from Camellia sinensis, which contains several polyphenolic free radical scavengers, could prevent nephrotoxicity caused by CsA and tacrolimus. Rats were fed powdered diet containing polyphenolic extract (0-0.1%) starting 3 days before CsA or tacrolimus. Free radicals were trapped with α-(4-pyridyl-1-oxide)-N-tert-butylnitrone (POBN) and measured using an electron spin resonance spectrometer. Both CsA and tacrolimus decreased glomerular filtration rates (GFR) and caused tubular atrophy, vacuolization and calcification and arteriolar hyalinosis, effects that were blunted by treatment with dietary polyphenols. Moreover, CsA and tacrolimus increased POBN/radical adducts in urine nearly 3.5 fold. Hydroxyl radicals attack dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) to produce a methyl radical fragment. Administration of CsA or tacrolimus with 12C-DMSO produced a 6-line spectrum, while CsA or tacrolimus given with 13C-DMSO produced a 12-line ESR spectrum, confirming formation of hydroxyl radicals. 4-Hydroxynonenal (4-HNE), a product of lipid peroxidation, accumulated in proximal and distal tubules after CsA or tacrolimus treatment. ESR changes and 4-HNE formation were largely blocked by polyphenols. Taken together, these results demonstrate that both CsA and tacrolimus stimulate free radical production in the kidney, most likely in tubular cells, and that polyphenols minimize nephrotoxicity by scavenging free radicals.
Third-octave-mode chatter in rolling. Part 1: Chatter model
Authors: Hu Pei-Hua , Zhao Huyue , Ehmann K F
Published: October 2006

Among various types of rolling chatter, third-octave-mode chatter is considered the most critical because it generates large gauge variations in the rolled materials and may damage the rolling mill. In this three-part paper, a new chatter model that combines a homogeneous process model with suitable mill structure models is presented. Based on this model, the system's stability is investigated in the light of various mechanisms that may lead to the onset of third-octave-mode chatter. Stability criteria for each mechanism are established in terms of relevant rolling process parameters, and their influences on overall system stability are demonstrated. Part 1 deals with the general formulation of single- and multiple-stand chatter models.
Third-octave-mode chatter in rolling. Part 2: Stability of a single-stand mill
Authors: Hu Pei-Hua , Zhao Huyue , Ehmann K F
Published: October 2006

Based on the general linear chatter model of a single-stand mill, derived in Part 1, two physical mechanisms that may lead to chatter will be explored. The first, termed instability caused by the ‘model-matching effect’, is the consequence of a simple process-structure interaction that exhibits a relatively high margin of stability. The second, ‘mode coupling’, is the consequence of multiple vibration modes. The stability of both chatter modes will be established by formulating analytical stability criteria in terms of relevant rolling process parameters. Simulation results will be presented to demonstrate stable and unstable mill behaviour.
The UK electronics manufacturing industry 1997-2003: A case study of the effect of globalization
Authors: Webb D P , Reed F M , Carpineta P , Walsh K
Published: October 2006

Statistical data and information from industry interviews are used to build a picture of the implications of, and responses to, globalization in the key industry of electronics contract manufacturing in the UK. A comprehensive list of companies in the sector with associated employment and turnover data has been created from a variety of sources. Comparison of 2003 data with a 1997 dataset produces a unique longitudinal statistical picture of the industry over a period marked by the increasing influence of globalization. Total employment in the industry has decreased by 39 per cent from approximately 37 600 to 23 100 between 1997 and 2003. This breaks down into a decline in the printed circuit board (PCB) manufacturing subsector of 61 per cent, from 16 300 to around 6400, and a much smaller decline in the printed circuit board sub-contract assembly (PCBA) subsector of 22 per cent, from approximately 21400 to 16700. There has been a major shift in employment distribution away from large companies. Interview results indicate that the loss of large company capacity may have strategic implications for future technological capability. However, the UK is seen as a source of innovation and retention of strong engineering skills is key to bringing new products to the market.
Development of a system for monitoring tool wear using artificial intelligence techniques
Authors: Silva R G , Wilcox S J , Reuben R L
Published: October 2006

The main objective of the work reported here was to develop an intelligent condition monitoring system that was able to detect when a cutting tool was worn out. To accomplish this objective the use of a hybrid intelligent system, based on an expert system and two neural networks, was investigated. The neural networks were employed to process data from sensors and the classifications made by the neural networks were combined with information from the knowledge base to make an estimate of the wear state of the tool.

The novelty of this work is mainly associated with the configuration of the developed system that estimates tool wear in a new way. The combination of sensor-based information and inference rules results in an online system that can be updated when the cutting conditions fall outside of the trained zone of the neural networks. The neural networks resolved the problem of interpreting the complex sensor inputs while the expert system, by keeping track of previous success, estimated which of the two neural networks was more reliable. Misclassifications were filtered out through the use of a rough but approximate estimator - Taylor's tool life model. The use of Taylor's tool life model, although weak as a tool life estimator, proved to be crucial in achieving higher performance levels. The application of the self-organizing map to tool wear monitoring proved to have a slightly larger zone of influence and make slightly more accurate estimates of tool wear than the adaptive resonance theory neural network and overall the system made reliable, accurate estimates of the tool wear.
Design and optimization of manufacturing facilities layouts
Authors: Balamurugan K , Selladurai V , Ilamathi B
Published: October 2006

The present paper deals with the design of manufacturing facilities layout with the consideration of downtime of facilities and space utilization using genetic algorithm (GA). The existing approaches to solve problems of unequal area facility layout in manufacturing environments can provide optimal solutions with limitations such as single design criterion, manual revision, and approximated shape. Also, importance to practical factors such as downtime of facilities owing to planned maintenance or failure of machines, and floor space utilization are addressed to a lesser degree. A mathematical model and a heuristic solution procedure for designing manufacturing facilities layouts that address the above-mentioned shortcomings are proposed. The proposed model minimizes the cost associated with material handling during normal and breakdown periods with due consideration of compactness of the layout. A heuristic placement procedure, which is capable of changing the orientation of facilities, is proposed to place the machines in the floor area, in order to obtain maximum space utilization. The proposed design approach is evaluated by solving different layout design problems taken from the literature and by solving an industrial case study. The results of the proposed GA optimizer are compared with results obtained from greedy search and simulated annealing methods. The results show that the approach performs better in most of the cases.
A formal design for changeover methodology. Part 1: Theory and background
Authors: Reik M P , McIntosh R I , Culley S J , Mileham A R , Owen G W
Published: October 2006

A rapid changeover capability is central to today's thinking in respect of responsive, small batch manufacturing. Mass customization and other modern manufacturing paradigms have prompted companies to adapt swiftly to market turbulence and at the same time avoid the traditionally high unit costs associated with custom-made or small-volume products. Historically, an operation-focused approach has been adopted in reducing changeover times; however, it is argued that there is a significant benefit if there is a focus on equipment design.

There is a considerable challenge to design and build cost-effective changeover-capable equipment. This challenge would be greatly assisted by the availability of a coherent design for changeover (DFC) methodology.

The authors have been researching the changeover area for many years and present their latest thinking in two parts. In the first part of this paper the basic concepts for a formal DFC methodology are introduced. Drawing lessons from various existing DFX methodologies, including design for assembly and design for variety, these concepts set out the basics for a novel DFC methodology. The debated DFC methodology is presented in the second part alongside an illustrative case study [1].
Hybrid guidance law for interception of ballistic targets
Authors: Lin C-L , Chen K-M , Wu M-T , Huang S-W
Published: October 2006

This article develops a new integrated missile guidance scheme against ballistic targets based on optimal control theory and neural network technology, in which an optimal midcourse guidance law is analytically derived to reach a near head-on interception engagement. This enables an aerodynamically controlled missile to successfully intercept a very high-speed target. A multi-layer feedforward neural network is incorporated with proportional navigation guidance in the terminal guidance section to adaptively enhance missile agility and to correct acceleration commands in response to rapid changes in aerodynamics and target manoeuvres. The entire defensible volume in three-dimensional space is characterized and the missile performance robustness is verified.
Design aspects of launch vehicle sizing including air-breathing propulsion
Authors: Sundaresan M
Published: October 2006

The overall sizing of launch vehicles is of interest, especially when air-breathing is also included. The sizing of a launch vehicle is dictated by the State of Art technologies present and the need to match the challenging demands of high-payload fraction, low cost, and also ensure reliability. This paper presents some of the important design requirements. An ideal velocity approach, which assumes various velocity losses, is generally followed for initial vehicle sizing. However, as this approach is approximate and sometimes incorrect, a new concept of accounting the drag and thrust losses during the atmospheric phase for conventional rockets and air-breathing launch vehicles using scramjet propulsion is evolved complementing the ideal velocity sizing approach. A simplistic two-dimensional trajectory simulation program with graphics for quick interactive design was developed for this purpose. The air-breathing launch vehicle trajectory is split into three flight phases. The sizing of the vehicle considering, especially, the intermediate air-breathing regime is also dealt with. A method to determine the maximum-load envelope expressed in terms of the product of flight dynamic pressure and angle of attack, namely Q-alpha, for all weather launches useful for initial design purposes is also suggested. The design program meant for initial design sizing purposes gives a quick insight on the vehicle performance prior to detailed design with minimum basic vehicle data for conventional rockets and also for air-breathing scramjet vehicles. The various design factors, such as optimum velocity requirement for two stage to orbit vehicles and the sizing requirement of the orbital stage after end of air-breathing phase, are also discussed through representative typical values highlighting the design sensitivities.
A comparative analysis of methods for air-launching vehicles from earth to sub-orbit or orbit
Authors: Sarigul-Klijn N , Sarigul-Klijn M
Published: October 2006

A variety of air-launched sub-orbital and orbital vehicles are demonstrated and others have been proposed recently by different organizations. The purpose of this article is three-fold: (a) to identify benefits of air-launching vehicles for space missions; (b) to categorize airlaunched vehicles with respect to how they are integrated to their carrier vehicle; (c) to identify benefits and shortcomings of these methods. Our analysis study shows that air-launching provides mobility and deployment advantages over surface launching. It can also provide performance advantages over surface launching. However, many air-launch concepts proposed require advance technologies that are currently not available.
Signal reconfiguration of missile fault-tolerant control
Authors: Liu X C , Xiao L X , He X F , Xu J H
Published: October 2006

To improve the reliability of missile control systems and to prevent self-destruction caused by faulty inertia sensors, a novel approach of fault-tolerant control with signal reconfiguration is proposed. The rigid body angle signals and the different-order elastic oscillation-caused angle signals are first separated from output signals of the inertia sensors with signal processing. Then, the relationship between the elastic oscillation of the missile body and the attitude angles and the relationship among the output signals of the sensors are analysed. Finally, the normal signal of a faulty sensor is reconfigured with the output signals of other normally working sensors via analytical redundancy. Some examples are provided to illustrate the main results.
Aerodynamic forces based on an error analytical formulation for aeroservoelasticity studies on an F/A-18 aircraft
Authors: Biskri D E , Botez R M
Published: October 2006

Two classical methods are used in the literature to approximate the unsteady generalized forces from the frequency domain Q(k) to the Laplace domain Q(s) and these methods are the least squares and the minimum state (MS). In this article, a new method is presented, called the corrected minimum state (CMS), on the basis of the standard MS approximation method. This new CMS method uses an analytical form of the error as a function of Laplace variable similar to the analytical form of the aerodynamic forces calculated with the MS method. This new method is applied to an F/A-18 aircraft and it is found that the CMS method brings improvements in the approximation results in comparison with the standard MS method. It is shown that the use of the CMS method on an F/A-18 aircraft will give better results in terms of convergence speeds and precision than the MS method.
Finite-element-based assessment of analytical methods for the design of fuselage frames
Authors: Boni L , Fanteria D
Published: October 2006

The paper presents the results of a number of finite-element analyses carried out to support the development of an analytical design procedure for fuselage frames of a transport aircraft. The numerical simulation by means of finite-element method has the aim of developing an adequate sensitivity about the advantages and the limitations of the analytical approach and in quantifying the magnitude of such limitations with respect to more refined design tools. In particular, the final objective is to achieve a deeper insight into some of the design aspects of the frames, such as the influence of realistic load cases and the effects of the frames on the behaviour of the structure in their vicinity.

The results indicate that the analytical design method is capable of describing correctly the influence of the frame on the stress state of the structure at a sufficient distance from the frame location, in the simplifying hypothesis of negligible effects of adjacent loaded frames. In the immediate surroundings of the frame and within the frame itself, the analytical method can provide a first approximation of the stress fields.
Suitability analysis of commercial off-the-shelf components for space application
Authors: Jiang X J , Wang Z H , Sun H X , Chen X M , Zhao T L , Zhou C Y , Yu G H , Zhang L
Published: October 2006

With the rapid development of microelectronics technology and the increasing requirement of high performance in space missions, existing space-level radiation-hardened components and technology cannot meet the design of high-performance spacecraft. More and more commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components are widely used in some space missions to achieve high performance. However, COTS components are designed working in terrestrial operating conditions, and the electronic components used in spacecraft usually have a much higher reliability and suitability requirement because of the nature of space missions. Therefore, the successful use of COTS components in space applications is closely related to reliability and suitability issues, which have to be considered before using COTS parts in the harsh environment in space. This article summarizes the state-of-the-art COTS components suitable for space applications, discusses the problems and risks of using COTS components in space, and presents a suitability analysis approach for COTS components in Chinese space projects. The approach consists of analysis, tests, and evaluation of thermal environment, vibration and shock environment, radiation environment, and vacuum environment. In order to illustrate the usage of the approach, two examples have been selected as case studies. One is the Chinese SZ-4 spaceship with a COTS part AD595 and the other is a joint space project between the Europe Space Agency and the Chinese National Space Administration, which is called the Double-Star Project, with a COTS part MAX471.
The middle cranial fossa approach to the internal auditory canal — an anatomical study stressing critical distances between surgical landmarks
Authors: Parisier Simon C.
Published: October 2006

The middle cranial fossa approach to the structures within the temporal bone has been a significant addition to the otologist's operative repertoire. Using modern operative techniques, the surgery can be performed without necessarily compromising auditory, vestibular or facial nerve function. However, the successful exposure of the contents of the internal auditory canal and petrous apex requires both a thorough understanding of the region's surgical anatomy as well as the application of meticulous operative skill.
The masquerade of vasculitis: Head and neck diagnosis and management
Authors: Schramm Victor L. , Myers Eugene N. , Rogerson David R.
Published: October 2006

Wegener's granulomatosis and forms of giant cell arteritis result from vasculitis and masquerade with symptoms of common head and neck disease entities. Recognition of the manifestations of vasculitis can be made early in the disease course and confirmed pathologically, allowing effective therapy. Current therapy of Wegener's granulomatosis with Cytoxin and Imuran and steroids for giant cell arteritis frequently results in reversal of head and neck involvement, prevention of systemic disease, and prolonged survival.
Bilateral acinous cell tumors of the parotid gland
Authors: Nelson Denton W. , Nichols Richard D. , Fine Gerald
Published: October 2006

Acinous cell tumors are uncommon neoplasms which arise either from the secretory cells of the salivary gland acini or from pluripotential duct cells and occur almost exclusively in the parotid gland. Nine previous instances of the bilateral occurrence of this tumor in the parotid gland have been reported. We present a tenth case and illustrate several aspects of the clinical behavior of this unique tumor.

The histological pattern of this type of tumor was considered universally to be benign until 1953 when attention was called to a malignant variant. It is difficult to find reference to a benign form after that time. It is, in fact, impossible to forecast the clinical behavior of an individual specimen based upon its histopathology. In order to recognize this unpredictability, the World Health Organization Classification of Epithelial Tumors of Salivary Gland Origin proposed a category, “Acinic Cell Tumors,” separate from clearly benign or malignant neoplasms. Later, attention was called to the grammatical designation, “acinous cell tumor.”

Because acinous cell tumors are uncommon, numerically significant series are gathered from several institutions or over several decades during which treatment methods vary widely. This makes it difficult to accept the validity of conclusions based upon the reported data. There is, however, a clearly documented tendency of the tumor to recur after long symptomless intervals so that extended follow‐up is necessary before “cure” is established.

Treatment of acinous cell tumors is surgical. The value of radiation therapy in the management of recurrent tumors is not firmly established.
Incidence and type of otopathology associated with congenital palatopharyngeal incompetence
Authors: Caldarelli David D.
Published: October 2006

Based upon the known association of cleft palate and middle ear disease, a study was undertaken to determine the incidence and type of middle ear pathology associated with velar anomalies exclusive of cleft palate which may produce congenital palatal pharyngeal incompetence. The range of velar anomalies encountered was subdivided into congenital palatal incompetence Type 1 (clinically manifested by one or more of a triad of visible palatal anomalies including submucous deficiency of the hard palate, bifid uvula, and a diastasis of velar musculature) and congenital palatal incompetence Type 2 (no visible velar anomalies but radiographic anomalies of the velopharyngeal region such as short or thin velum and/or enlarged nasopharyngeal dimensions consequent to vertebral and skull base anomalies).

Middle ear disease was assessed separately in CPI Types 1 and 2 in order to differentiate the effects upon middle ear function between overt and occult velar anomalies. Middle ear disease was more frequent in CPI Type 1 than in CPI Type 2. The predominant otopathologic finding was serous otitis media, paralleling the type associated with cleft palate. Tympanic membrane atrophy, tympanosclerosis and tympanic membrane perforation, often considered sequelae of chronic serous otitis media, were noted infrequently. This investigation supports the concept that middle ear disease frequently occurs with congenital palatal incompetence as it does with cleft palate.
Adenylate energy charge, energy status, and phosphorylation state of stria vascularis under metabolic stress
Authors: Thalmann R. , Marcus N. Y. , Thalmann I.
Published: October 2006

The purpose of the reported experiments was to measure the strial concentrations of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), adenosine diphosphate (ADP), and adenosine monophosphate (AMP) in order to arrive at estimates of three commonly used adenylate ratios. Under normal conditions, the concentrations of ATP, ADP, and AMP were found to be 11.4, 3.7, and 0.6 mmoles/kg dry weight, respectively. Of the three substances, AMP is the most sensitive indicator of metabolic stress, since its concentration doubles within 6 sec. of ischemia and reaches a peak level of about 1500% of the control following 65 sec. of ischemia. Under normal conditions, the “adenylate energy charge,” the “energy status,” and the “phosphorylation state” amount to 0.84, 3.0, and 1.52 gram wet weight/μmole, respectively. In ischemia of 10 min. duration, the adenylate energy charge decreases 3 fold, the energy status 7 fold and the phosphorylation state 14 fold. The size of the adenylate pool shows a slight increase in the earliest stage of ischemia, but declines progressively thereafter. The apparent equilibrium constant of strial adenylate kinase was found to be 0.48. The advantages and limitations of the different adenylate ratios, as indicators of metabolic health and as regulatory parameters, are discussed.
Failures after irradiation in early vocal cord cancer
Authors: Bosch Antonio , Kademian Michael T. , Frias Zenaida C. , Caldwell William L.
Published: October 2006

Radiation therapy for early laryngeal cancer offers an excellent probability of cure as well as preservation of vocal function. Reported failure rates range from 9 to 21% in patients with T1 lesions, and from 28 to 44% in those with T2 lesions, the majority of whom are subsequently salvaged by surgery.

Results obtained at the Radiotherapy Center of the University of Wisconsin Hospitals in 44 patients during the period from 1960 to 1972 yielded failure rates of 21% in patients with T1 tumors and 38% in patients with T2 tumors at 5 years. Five of the eight recurrences were salvaged with surgery yielding an overall tumor control rate of 93%. The larynx was preserved in 82% of the cases. Determinate 5‐year survival was 91% in T1 cases and 86% in T2 cases.

Failure rates at 3 years were 18% for T1 tumors and 30% for T2 lesions. These results are in conflict with those reported by Brandenburg and Rutter as being 46% and 60% respectively.

Ultimate success in the treatment of laryngeal cancer rests in the full cooperation between surgeons and radiotherapists.
Evoked electromyographic test applied for recurrent laryngeal nerve paralysis
Authors: Satoh Isei
Published: October 2006

This study was performed to apply the evoked electromyographic (EMG) test to the larynx and to find out whether or not this test is useful for diagnosis of patients with recurrent laryngeal nerve paralysis. As a result, it was considered that the present test was useful for the following:

Diagnosis of the site of lesion: The decision is easily made whether the recurrent laryngeal nerve is damaged alone or together with the superior laryngeal nerve, and on the site of damages along the recurrent laryngeal nerve in some cases.

Determination of prognosis: The cases showing no evoked wave may not recover completely. For the cases showing an evoked wave, information on prognosis can be obtained from the degree of changes in latency and evoked wave form.

Indication of the state of nerve regeneration: The evoked EMG test is able to reveal the state of reinnervation of the paralyzed laryngeal nerve as well as and even earlier than the ordinary EMG test.
Upper airway obstruction due to coccidioidomycosis
Authors: Henley‐Cohn Julian , Boles Roger , Weisberger Edward , Ballantyne Jane
Published: October 2006

The inpatient experience regarding coccidioidomycosis of head and neck was reviewed at the University of California Medical Center, San Francisco and affiliated hospitals. Four cases in which upper airway obstruction required otolaryngological consultation and intervention are reviewed in detail. History, epidemiology and pathophysiology of coccidioidomycosis involving upper airway are discussed. Suggestions for diagnosis and management are outlined.
The cost of cancer
Authors: Cromwell Jerry , Gertman Paul
Published: October 2006

In the last 30 years medical science has developed an array of new technologies such as cell cytology, radio‐isotopic scanning, soft tissue X‐rays (mammography and computerized tomography), etc., which have potential for the early detection of cancer, and when coupled with current or future therapeutic techniques may lead to improved rates of cure or prolonged survival of patients with cancer. Whenever preliminary evidence of efficacy is developed, considerable public pressure mounts both within and outside the medical community to implement screening programs on a widespread basis. Advances in screening and treatment, however, are coming at a time when there is serious nationwide concern over the total amount now being spent for health care in the nation and the rate of inflation that has occurred almost every year.

In the medical literature, the little existing identification of the costs and economic benefits of screening (and of disease control programs in general) is often presented in a fairly simplistic fashion. Yet, just as many of the biologic issues in cancer screening are complex, so too are the economic ones. This paper will begin to identify: 1. the economic approaches to evaluating screening, 2. the problems in specifying costs. 3. the issues involved in selecting benefit measures, and 4. how these interact in the formulation of screening policies. In addressing these issues, new data on cost of cancer treatment, based on the third National Cancer Survey, will be presented. These data include hospital and nonhospital costs, disaggregated by source, cancer site and stage.