bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does Knowing the Oceanic PDO Phase Help Predict the Atmospheric Anomalies in Subsequent Months?
Authors: Kumar Arun , Wang Hui , Wang Wanqiu , Xue Yan , Hu Zeng-Zhen
Published: October 2012

Based on analysis of a coupled model simulations with and without variability associated with the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO), it is demonstrated that knowing the current value of the ocean surface temperature–based index of the Pacific decadal oscillation (the OPDO index), and the corresponding atmospheric teleconnection pattern, does not add a predictive value for atmospheric anomalies in subsequent months. This is because although the OPDO index evolves on a slow time scale, it does not constrain the atmospheric variability in subsequent months, which retains its character of white noise stochastic variability and remains largely unpredictable. Further, the OPDO adds little to the atmospheric predictability originating from the tropical Pacific during ENSO years.
Evaluation of the Advanced Hurricane WRF Data Assimilation System for the 2009 Atlantic Hurricane Season
Authors: Cavallo Steven M. , Torn Ryan D. , Snyder Chris , Davis Christopher , Wang Wei , Done James
Published: October 2012

Real-time analyses and forecasts using an ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF) and the Advanced Hurricane Weather Research and Forecasting Model (AHW) are evaluated from the 2009 North Atlantic hurricane season. This data assimilation system involved cycling observations that included conventional in situ data, tropical cyclone (TC) position, and minimum SLP and synoptic dropsondes each 6 h using a 96-member ensemble on a 36-km domain for three months. Similar to past studies, observation assimilation systematically reduces the TC position and minimum SLP errors, except for strong TCs, which are characterized by large biases due to grid resolution. At 48 different initialization times, an AHW forecast on 12-, 4-, and 1.33-km grids is produced with initial conditions drawn from a single analysis member. Whereas TC track analyses and forecasts exhibit a pronounced northward bias, intensity forecast errors are similar to (lower than) the NWS Hurricane Weather Research Model (HWRF) and GFDL forecasts for forecast lead times ≤60 h (>60 h), with the largest track errors associated with the weakest systems, such as Tropical Storm (TS) Erika. Several shortcomings of the data assimilation system are addressed through postseason sensitivity tests, including using the maximum 800-hPa circulation to identify the TC position during assimilation and turning off the quality control for the TC minimum SLP observation when the initial intensity is far too weak. In addition, the improved forecast of TS Erika relative to HWRF is shown to be related to having initial conditions that are more representative of a sheared TC and not using a cumulus parameterization.
The Bow and Arrow Mesoscale Convective Structure
Authors: Keene Kelly M. , Schumacher Russ S.
Published: October 2012

The accurate prediction of warm-season convective systems and the heavy rainfall and severe weather associated with them remains a challenge for numerical weather prediction models. This study looks at a circumstance in which quasi-stationary convection forms perpendicular to, and above the cold-pool behind strong bow echoes. The authors refer to this phenomenon as a “bow and arrow” because on radar imagery the two convective lines resemble an archer’s bow and arrow. The “arrow” can produce heavy rainfall and severe weather, extending over hundreds of kilometers. These events are challenging to forecast because they require an accurate forecast of earlier convection and the effects of that convection on the environment. In this study, basic characteristics of 14 events are documented, and observations of 4 events are presented to identify common environmental conditions prior to the development of the back-building convection. Simulations of three cases using the Weather Research and Forecasting Model (WRF) are analyzed in an attempt to understand the mechanisms responsible for initiating and maintaining the convective line. In each case, strong southwesterly flow (inducing warm air advection and gradual isentropic lifting), in addition to directional and speed convergence into the convective arrow appear to contribute to initiation of convection. The linear orientation of the arrow may be associated with a combination of increased wind speeds and horizontal shear in the arrow region. When these ingredients are combined with thermodynamic instability, there appears to be a greater possibility of formation and maintenance of a convective arrow behind a bow echo.
The Association Between Small Vessel Infarcts and the Activities of Amyloid-β Peptide Degrading Proteases in Apolipoprotein E4 AlleleCarriers
Authors: Zhu Haihao , Bhadelia Rafeeque A. , Liu Zhiheng , Vu Linh , Li Huajie , Scott Tammy , Bergethon Peter , Mwamburi Mkaya , Rosenzweig James L. , Rosenberg Irwine , Qiu Wei Qiao
Published: October 2012

Small vessel (SV) and large vessel (LV) brain infarcts are distinct pathologies. Using a homebound elderly sample, the numbers of either infarct subtypes were similar between those apolipoprotein E4 allele (ApoE4) carriers (n = 80) and noncarriers (n = 243). We found that the higher the number of SV infarcts, but not LV infarcts, a participant had, the higher the activity of substrate V degradation in serum especially among ApoE4 carriers (β = +0.154, SE = 0.031, P < .0001) after adjusting for the confounders. Since substrate V degradation could be mediated by insulin-degrading enzyme (IDE) or/and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), but no relationship was found between SV infarcts and specific ACE activities, blood IDE may be a useful biomarker to distinguish the brain infarct subtypes. Insulin-degrading enzyme in blood may also imply an important biomarker and a pathological event in Alzheimer disease through SV infarcts in the presence of ApoE4.
Cultural diversity in physical diseases among patients with mental illnesses
Authors: Larsen Jens I , Andersen Ulla A , Becker Thomas , Bickel Graziella G , Bork Bernhard , Cordes Joachim , Frasch Karel , Jacobsen Bent A , Jensen Signe O Wallenstein , Kilian Reinhold , Lauber Christoph , Mogensen Birthe , Nielsen Jørgen A , Rössler Wulf , Tsuchiya Kenji J , Uwakwe Richard , Munk-Jørgensen Povl
Published: October 2012

Objective:

People with psychiatric diseases have a severely increased risk for physical morbidity and premature death from physical diseases. The aims of the study were to investigate the occurrence of cardiovascular diseases (CVD), diabetes (DM) and obesity in schizophrenia and depression in three different geographical areas – Asia (Japan), Africa (Nigeria) and Western Europe (Switzerland, Germany and Denmark) – and to search for possible transcultural differences in these correlations, which would also reflect the differences between low-income areas in Africa (Nigeria) and high-income areas in Europe and Japan.

Method:

Patients with International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) F2 diseases (schizophrenia spectrum disorders) and F3 diseases (affective disorders) admitted to one Nigerian, one Japanese, two Swiss, two German and six Danish centres during 1 year were included. Physical diseases in accordance with ICD-10 were also registered. Psychiatric and physical comorbidity were calculated and standardized rate ratio incidences of background populations were our primary measures.

Results:

Incidence rate ratios were increased for both CVD, DM and overweight in both F2 and F3 in all cultures (Western Europe, Nigeria and Japan) within the same ranges (however, the Japanese results should be interpreted conservatively owing to the limited sample size). Overweight among the mentally ill were marked in Nigeria. A parallelism of the incidence of overweight, CVD and diabetes with the occurrence in background populations was seen and was most marked in overweight.

Conclusions:

Overweight, CVD and DM were increased in schizophrenia spectrum disorders and affective disorders in all three cultures investigated (Western Europe, Nigeria and Japan). Lifestyle diseases were also seen in Nigeria and Japan. The results from this study indicate that cultural background might be seen as an important factor in dealing with lifestyle diseases among people with a severe mental illness, as it is in the general population.
Determinants of perceived integration among Chinese migrant mothers living in low-income communities of Hong Kong: Implications for social service practitioners
Authors: Ho Wing-Chung , Nor Linda Tjia Yin , Wu Joseph
Published: October 2012

With visions of a better life through transnational marriage, women immigrants are often quickly disappointed when they are faced with social isolation as a result of heavy household responsibilities. The current study investigates 506 Chinese migrant mothers living in areas of concentrated poverty in Hong Kong. Using path analysis the study examines how several exogenous variables, such as marital contentment, household finances, and social support, predict perceived integration into the host society, and how hope for a better future might mediate the relationship between these variables and perceived integration. The results of the study have implications for social service practice in low-income neighborhoods.
Challenges for marginalized minority parents in different welfare systems: Child welfare workers’ perspectives
Authors: Križ Katrin , Skivenes Marit
Published: October 2012

This article explores the challenges that marginalized minority parents face raising their children in England, Norway and the United States. While there are similar patterns of challenges across the three countries, such as cultural differences, including lack of language proficiency and knowledge of the society and systems, cross-country differences seem primarily to correspond to different systems of welfare aims and services. We discuss the implications of these findings on underprivileged minority children.
Teacher Value Added as a Measure of Program Quality
Authors: Floden Robert E.
Published: October 2012

Many states now possess the data and statistical methods that can produce teacher value-added scores and link them to preparation programs. It is important to understand the limitations of these measures and the inferences that they do and do not support. These limitations fall into three categories. First, value-added measures (VAM) provide information about only one of several important dimensions of teacher preparation program quality, focusing on one outcome measure, but not addressing other program characteristics, including the quality of program resources, the appropriateness of program content, and the contributions programs make to teacher learning. Second, comparing programs on the average VAM scores begs the question of whether mean performance is the most appropriate way to look at program quality. Third, the measurement of program graduates’ VAM is strongly affected by the labor market for teachers, which weakens the inferences from VAM scores to the quality of preparation programs.
Media and Class-making: What Lessons Are Learnt When a Celebrity Chav Dies?
Authors: Raisborough Jayne , Frith Hannah , Klein Orly
Published: October 2012

Class is often overlooked in sociological studies of death, just as studies of class overlook death. The controversial media coverage of the death of Jade Goody provides a useful focus for exploring contemporary class-making. Recent sociological analyses of class representations in popular culture have demonstrated how denigration and humiliation serve as mechanisms which position sections of the white, working class (chavs) as repositories of bad taste. We argue that these are not the only (or even the most prevalent) affective mechanisms for class-making. In this article, we explore how cultural imperatives for ‘dying well’ intersect with what could be perceived as more positive or even affectionate representations of Jade to produce ‘good taste’ as naturalised properties of the middle class. As such, we demonstrate that the circulation of inequalities through precarious and dynamic cultural representations involves more complex affective mechanisms in class boundary work than is often recognised.
The Co-construction of Shame in the Context of Poverty: Beyond a Threat to the Social Bond
Authors: Chase Elaine , Walker Robert
Published: October 2012

Scheff (2000, 2003) has argued that shame, while recognised as a social emotion, is frequently explored outside of the social matrix and with limited reference to its role in human behaviour. Drawing on empirical qualitative research with adults living in poverty in the UK, this article illuminates a) how the co-construction of shame (feeling shame and being shamed) is fundamental in framing how people living in poverty respond to the social demands on them; and b) how shame as a phenomenon may also take on a dynamic of its own, ultimately used by those feeling shame to distance themselves from the socially constructed and denigrated ‘Other’ (Lister, 2004). The article shifts the analysis beyond shame arising from a threat to the immediate ‘social bond’ (Lewis, 1971), instead presenting it as a social fact which not only undermines human dignity but risks the atomisation of modern society.
Lithium and tamoxifen modulate cellular plasticity cascades in animal model of mania
Authors: Cechinel-Recco Kelen , Valvassori Samira S , Varela Roger B , Resende Wilson R , Arent Camila O , Vitto Marcelo F , Luz Gabrielle , de Souza Claudio T , Quevedo João
Published: October 2012

Lithium (Li) is the main mood stabilizer and acts on multiple biochemical targets, leading to neuronal plasticity. Several clinical studies have shown that tamoxifen (TMX) – a protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor – has been effective in treating acute mania. The present study aims to evaluate the effects of TMX on biochemical targets of Li, such as glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β), PKC, PKA, CREB, BDNF and NGF, in the brain of rats subjected to an animal model of mania induced by d-amphetamine (d-AMPH). Wistar rats were treated with d-AMPH (2mg/kg, once a day) or saline (Sal; NaCl 0.9%, w/v), Li (47.5 mg/kg, intraperitoneally (i.p.), twice a day) or TMX (1 mg/kg i.p., twice a day) or Sal in protocols of reversion and prevention treatment. Locomotor behavior was assessed using the open-field task, and protein levels were measured by immunoblot. Li and TMX reversed and prevented d-AMPH-induced hyperactivity. Western blot showed that d-AMPH significantly increased GSK-3 and PKC levels, and decreased pGSK-3, PKA, NGF, BDNF and CREB levels in the structures analyzed. Li and TMX were able to prevent and reverse these changes induced by d-AMPH in most structures evaluated. The present study demonstrated that the PKC inhibitor modulates the alterations in the behavior, neurotrophic and apoptosis pathway induced by d-AMPH, reinforcing the need for more studies of PKC as a possible target for treatment of bipolar disorder.
Harmine augments electrically evoked dopamine efflux in the nucleus accumbens shell
Authors: Brierley Daniel I , Davidson Colin
Published: October 2012

Harmine is a β-carboline alkaloid and major component of ayahuasca, a traditional South American psychoactive tea with anecdotal efficacy for treatment of cocaine dependence. Harmine is an inhibitor of monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A) and interacts in vitro with several pharmacological targets which modulate dopamine (DA) neurotransmission. In vivo studies have demonstrated dopaminergic effects of harmine, attributed to monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) activity, however none have directly demonstrated a pharmacological mechanism. This study investigated the acute effects, and pharmacological mechanism(s), of harmine on electrically evoked DA efflux parameters in the nucleus accumbens both in the absence and presence of cocaine. Fast cyclic voltammetry in rat brain slices was used to measure electrically evoked DA efflux in accumbens core and shell. Harmine (300 nM) significantly augmented DA efflux (148±8% of baseline) in the accumbens shell. Cocaine augmented efflux in shell additive to harmine (260±35%). Harmine had no effect on efflux in the accumbens core or on reuptake in either sub-region. The effect of harmine in the shell was attenuated by the 5-HT2A/2C antagonist ketanserin. The MAOI moclobemide (10 µM) had no effect on DA efflux. These data suggest that harmine augments DA efflux via a novel, shell-specific, presynaptic 5-HT2A receptor-dependent mechanism, independent of MAOI activity. A DA-releasing ‘agonist therapy’ mechanism may thus contribute to the putative therapeutic efficacy of ayahuasca for cocaine dependence.
Diffuse Scaling Dermatitis in an Athymic Nude Mouse
Authors: Russo M. , Invernizzi A. , Gobbi A. , Radaelli E.
Published: October 2012

This report describes the clinicopathological features of a case of diffuse scaling dermatitis that occurred in a 16-week-old female athymic nude (CrTac:NCr- Foxn1nu) mouse. Gross presentation was suggestive of Corynebacterium bovis infection (scaly skin disease). However, C. bovis was not isolated from the skin of the affected animal or from the skin of unaffected CrTac:NCr- Foxn1nu mice housed in the same cage or room. Staphylococcus xylosus was instead isolated in high numbers from the skin lesion, whereas only a few colonies were recovered from the skin of unaffected mice. Microscopically, the affected skin was characterized by chronic hyperplastic and hyperkeratotic dermatitis with focal ulcerations, extensive serocellular crusts, and intralesional clusters of Gram-positive coccoid bacteria. Although gross presentation of the reported case was suggestive of C. bovis infection, epidemiological, histopathological, and bacteriological findings definitively ruled out an outbreak of scaly skin disease. A diagnostic hypothesis of hyperplastic and hyperkeratotic dermatitis associated with opportunistic S. xylosus infection was formulated based on increased bacterial burden and presence of intralesional Gram-positive coccoid bacteria.
Arthroscopic Agreement Among Surgeons on Anterior Cruciate Ligament Tunnel Placement
Authors: McConkey Mark O. , Amendola Annunziato , Ramme Austin J. , Dunn Warren R. , Flanigan David C. , Britton Carla L. ,   MOON Knee Group, Wolf Brian R. , Spindler Kurt P. , Carey James L. , Cox Charles L. , Kaeding Christopher C. , Wright Rick W. , Matava Matthew J. , Brophy Robert H. , Smith Matthew V. , McCarty Eric C. , Vidal Armando F. , Wolcott Michelle , Marx Robert G. , Parker Richard D. , Andrish Jack F. , Jones Morgan H.
Published: October 2012

Background:

Little is known about surgeon agreement and accuracy using arthroscopic evaluation of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tunnel positioning.

Purpose:

To investigate agreement on ACL tunnel position evaluated arthroscopically between operating surgeons and reviewing surgeons. We hypothesized that operating and evaluating surgeons would characterize tunnel positions significantly differently.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Twelve surgeons drilled ACL tunnels on 72 cadaveric knees using transtibial (TT), medial portal (MP), or 2-incision (TI) techniques and then completed a detailed assessment form on tunnel positioning. Then, 3 independent blinded surgeon reviewers each arthroscopically evaluated tunnel position and completed the assessment form. Statistical comparisons of tunnel position evaluation between operating and reviewing surgeons were completed. Three-dimensional (3D) computed tomography (CT) scans were performed and compared with arthroscopic assessments. Arthroscopic assessments were compared with CT tunnel location criteria.

Results:

Operating surgeons were significantly more likely to evaluate femoral tunnel position (92.6% vs 69.2%; P = .0054) and femoral back wall thickness as “ideal” compared with reviewing surgeons. Tunnels were judged ideal by reviewing surgeons more often when the TI technique was used compared with the MP and TT techniques. Operating surgeons were more likely to evaluate tibial tunnel position as ideal (95.5% vs 57.1%; P < .0001) and “acceptable” compared with reviewers. The ACL tunnels drilled using the TT technique were least likely to be judged as ideal on the tibia and the femur. Agreement among surgeons and observers was poor for all parameters (κ = −0.0053 to 0.2457). By 3D CT criteria, 88% of femoral tunnels and 78% of tibial tunnels were placed within applied criteria.

Conclusion:

Operating surgeons are more likely to judge their tunnels favorably than observers. However, independent surgeon reviewers appear to be more critical than results of 3D CT imaging measures. When subjectively evaluated arthroscopically, the TT technique yields more subjectively poorly positioned tunnels than the TI and MP techniques. Surgeons do not agree on the ideal placement for single-bundle ACL tunnels.

Clinical Relevance:

This study demonstrates that surgeons do not currently uniformly agree on ideal single-bundle tunnel placement and that the TT technique may yield more poorly placed tunnels.
Putting solid household waste to sustainable use: a case study in the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: Carvalho Márcia da Silva , Rosa Luiz Pinguelli , Bufoni André Luiz , Oliveira Luciano Basto
Published: October 2012

The management of solid residues has, in recent decades, been a source of concern for public administrators the world over. Experiments in the sustainable use of such residues are highly relevant in social and environmental terms, stimulating widespread interest and debate, with considerable research going into sustainability projects. In many areas, however, adequate public funding for sustainable-use projects is hard to come by. One of the major reasons for this is that public authorities, particularly in times of financial constraints, are reluctant to invest in undertakings in which the economic returns are difficult to quantify. Official scrutiny of the expenditures of public authorities is also normally heavily influenced by cost-benefit analyses. The specific objective of this article is to show that putting solid domestic residue (household solid waste) to sustainable use is capable of generating economic returns, as well as environmental benefits for society as a whole. These economic returns can be set out in financial statements, which may, in turn, be used to justify expenditures by public authorities on sustainable-use projects and as a basis for further investment in such incentives. We drew on the findings of existing research into sustainable use, undertaken by the Municipal Urban Cleaning Company in the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to establish a conceptual framework for setting out the economic results of the collection of household solid waste.
Aerobic composting leachate treatment by the combination of membrane processes
Authors: Çakmakcı Mehmet , Özyaka Vahide Şeyda
Published: October 2012

The main product of the conversion process of organic wastes to a useful organic fertilizer, known as compost, has gained an increasing interest in management of organic wastes recently. One of the main problems arising in the composting facilities is the high organic loaded leachate. In this study, a treatability experiment for composting leachate from a full-scale composting facility was carried out with the combination of membrane processes. The parameters such as chemical oxygen demand, total organic carbon, Cl− and [Formula: see text] were analysed to evaluate the membrane treatment performances of single and combined membrane systems consisting centrifuge, cartridge filter, ultrafiltration and nanofiltration membranes. The removal efficiencies of all pollutants were observed between 4.4 and 98%. The highest removal efficiencies were observed with the nanofiltration membrane (NF90) having a lower molecular weight cut-off than the others used in this study. It was observed that the effluent of NF90 membrane did not exceed the allowed maximum COD value.
Behavioral Difficulties in Adolescents With Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Brossard-Racine Marie , Waknin Joey , Shikako-Thomas Keiko , Shevell Michael , Poulin Chantal , Lach Lucy , Law Mary , Schmitz Norbert ,   the QUALA Group, Majnemer Annette
Published: October 2012

Behavioral problems are common in children with cerebral palsy; however, little is known about the persistence of these difficulties during adolescence. This study aimed to describe the nature and frequency of behavioral difficulties in adolescents with cerebral palsy and to explore associated factors. Parents of the participants completed the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. Participants’ motor and cognitive abilities, functional status, as well as parental stress were evaluated. Overall, the study enrolled 160 adolescents with cerebral palsy (65 girls, mean age 15.4 ± 2.17 years). Behavioral difficulties were present in 36.9% of the adolescents, with peer problems the most frequently reported (61.9%). Prosocial behaviors were associated with better function ( r = 0.24-0.65) whereas hyperactive symptoms were associated with greater limitations ( r = –0.19 to –0.55). Weak associations were found between parental stress and externalized problems ( r = 0.22−0.24). Behavioral difficulties remained frequent in adolescents with cerebral palsy, particularly in those with greater functional limitations.
A novel fibrous scaffold composed of electrospun porous poly(ɛ-caprolactone) fibers for bone tissue engineering
Authors: Nguyen Thi-Hiep , Bao Trinh Quang , Park Ihho , Lee Byong-Taek
Published: October 2012

In this study, porous poly(ɛ-caprolactone) (PCL) fiber-based fibrous scaffolds are created using a suitable ratio of dimethyl chloride and acetone by using electrospinning. With the porous structure, it induced CaP particles to easily coat on the fibers after immersion in simulated body fluid solution. The morphology of the electrospun membranes was observed using scanning electron microscopic observation. The results showed that the CaP coated successfully, as examined by scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopic techniques and mass comparative analysis. The wettability of the coated fibrous scaffolds was tested using contact angle analysis. The in vitro cellular proliferation and cell interaction with fibrous scaffolds were investigated. In addition, the in vivo bone formation capacity of fibrous scaffolds including the non-porous (PCL-DCM), porous (PCL-DCM/Ace) and CaP coating on PCL/DCM-Ace for 2, 4, 8 and 12 h immersed in SBF solution were also investigated. By measuring the in vitro results, we verified that porous PCL fiber-based fibrous scaffold after 12 h of immersion in simulated body fluid (PCL-DCM/Ace-12) was excellent for cell interaction, growth and proliferation. The in vivo analyses showed that the PCL-DCM/Ace-12 fibrous scaffold enabled greater acceleration of bone formation than PCL/DCM and PCL/DCM-Ace fibrous scaffolds.
Novel, thermally stable and chiral poly(amide-imide)s derived from a new diamine containing pyridine ring and various amino acid-based diacids
Authors: Mallakpour Shadpour , Zarei Mohammad
Published: October 2012

In this investigation, several novel optically active and potentially biodegradable poly(amide-imide)s were synthesized through direct polycondensation reaction. First, a new aromatic diamine compound including pyridine ring was synthesized, which was reacted with diimide dicarboxylic acids containing different natural amino acids such as l-alanine, l-leucine, l-isoleucine and l-methionine under green condition, using molten tetrabutylammonium bromide. These new chiral macromolecules were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, proton and carbon nuclear magnetic resonance, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), x-ray diffraction (XRD) and elemental and thermogravimetric analysis techniques. They show high solubility in polar organic solvents, such as N, N′-dimethylacetamide, N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone and dimethyl sulfoxide at room temperature. XRD and FE-SEM studies show that all the obtained polymers exhibit noncrystalline and nanostructure morphology. Due to the existence of amino acids in their structures, these polymers can show a potential biodegradability and biocompatibility behavior.
Synthesis and characterization of poly(ether ether ketone)s and poly(ether ether ketone ketone)s containing pendant biphenyl and naphthyl groups
Authors: Honkhambe Pandurang N. , Dhamdhere Neelam A. , Tawade Bhausaheb V. , Salunkhe Manikrao M. , Wadgaonkar Prakash P.
Published: October 2012

New poly(ether ether ketone)s (PEEKs) and poly(ether ether ketone ketone)s (PEEKKs) containing pendant biphenyl and naphthyl groups were synthesized by nucleophilic substitution reaction of each of the four bisphenols viz., 1-(4-biphenylyl)-1,1-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl) ethane, 1-(4-biphenylyl)-1,1-bis(3-methyl,4-hydroxyphenyl) ethane, 4,4’-[1-(2-naphthalenyl)ethylidene] bis-phenol and 4,4’-[1-(2-naphthalenyl) ethylidene] bis-3-methylphenol with 4,4’-difluorobenzophenone and 1,3-bis(4–fluorobenzoyl)benzene in a solvent mixture of N,N-dimethylacetamide and toluene in the presence of anhydrous potassium carbonate. Inherent viscosities and number-average molecular weights of polymers were in the range of 0.42–0.86 dl/g and 2.40–7.55 × 104, respectively. PEEKs and PEEKKs were amorphous in nature and were readily soluble in a wide range of organic solvents and could be cast into flexible and tough films from chloroform solution. Glass transition temperature of PEEKs and PEEKKs were in the range of 180°C –200°C. T10 values of PEEKs and PEEKKs were in the range of 424°C–512°C in nitrogen atmosphere, indicating their good thermal stability.
Synthesis and characterization of highly soluble and optically transparent polyimides derived from novel fluorinated pyridine-containing aromatic diamine
Authors: Shen Jie , Li Xiaolong , Zhang Ying , Wang Wenhao , Xu Zushun , Yeung Kelvin W. K. , Xu Ming , Yi Changfeng
Published: October 2012

A novel fluorinated pyridine-containing aromatic diamine monomer, 4-phenyl-2,6-bis[2-(4-amino-2-trifluoromethyphenoxy)phenyl]pyridine ( o, p-6FPAPP), was prepared in a three-step synthetic route. This aromatic diamine was then employed to synthesize a series of fluorinated pyridine-containing polyimides (PIs) by polycondensation with various aromatic dianhydrides via the conventional two-step method. The inherent viscosities of the resulting poly(amic acid)s (PAAs) and PIs were in the range of 0.71–0.89 and 0.62–0.84 dL/g; all the PIs obtained by chemical imidization were readily soluble in common organic solvents such as N, N-dimethylformamide (DMF), N, N-dimethylacetamide (DMAc), N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), tetrahydrofuran (THF) and so on. Meanwhile, transparent, strong and flexible PI films were obtained, which had good thermal stability, with the glass transition temperature ( Tg) of 195.2°C–232.7°C, the temperature at 10% weight loss of 530.2°C–546.0°C in nitrogen atmosphere, and good optical transparency with the cutoff wavelengths of 354–382 nm, as well as outstanding mechanical properties with tensile strengths of 96.4–105.8 MPa, tensile modulus of 1.57–1.88 GPa and elongations at break of 9.5%–13.4%. The PI films were also found to possess low water uptake of 0.52%–0.67%.
Development and optimization of a sustainable turbofan aeroengine for improved performance and emissions
Authors: Chandrasekaran N , Guha Abhijit
Published: October 2012

Current rapid growth of the aviation transport sector is deemed to be unsustainable because of the large quantities of greenhouse gas the aircrafts emit at sensitive altitudes. To prevent growth limits on this sector being imposed, the airlines must become cleaner. In the present study, a sustainable engine concept – based on intercooled recuperated turbofan, fuelled by liquid hydrogen, and using water injection for take-off and climb-out – is developed. This concept is intended to provide airlines a clean, efficient alternative to conventional engines. A commercially available computer program is used for modeling the sustainable turbofan concept. The optimization scheme of Guha has been applied for the new engine concept for minimizing fuel consumption and the performance of the sustainable turbofan engine in the possible design space has been determined. Comparisons with an existing conventional engine (of same thrust) revealed the significant improvement in overall efficiency (44%), reduction of emissions surpassing the demanding ACARE 2020 goals, improved longevity of the engine, and simplification in turbo-machinery components trying to offset the increase in weight due to the heat exchangers.
‘It’s just superstition I suppose … I’ve always done something on game day’: The construction of everyday life on a university basketball team
Authors: Cherrington James
Published: October 2012

Research in sport has tended to focus on ‘spectacular’ or ‘extra-ordinary’ experiences, at the expense of discussing how particular phenomena are embedded in everyday life. Drawing on ethnographic research with a university basketball team in the North of England, this article considers the meanings that amateur players attach to basketball and how such meanings go beyond their participation in competitive games. Analysis reveals the rhythms and rituals which are hugely important in determining the players’ sense of self. It also highlights the carnivalesque celebrations which allow the players to temporarily disrupt the status quo and experiment with alternative identities. In conclusion, it is argued that the meaning of sport should not be seen as rigid, determining and predictable, but rather a creative experience that is largely dependent on the subjective appropriation of time and place.
Experimental investigation of vibration reduction using shape memory alloys
Authors: Aguiar Ricardo AA , Savi Marcelo A , Pacheco Pedro MCL
Published: October 2012

Smart materials have a growing technological importance due to their unique thermomechanical characteristics. Shape memory alloys belong to this class of materials being easy to manufacture, relatively lightweight, and able to produce high forces or displacements with low power consumption. These aspects could be exploited in different applications including vibration control. Nevertheless, literature presents only a few references concerning the experimental analysis of shape memory alloy dynamical systems. This contribution deals with the experimental analysis of shape memory alloy dynamical systems by considering an experimental apparatus consisted of low-friction cars free to move in a rail. A shaker that provides harmonic forcing excites the system. The vibration analysis reveals that shape memory alloy elements introduce complex behaviors to the system and that different thermomechanical loadings are of concern showing the main aspects of the shape memory alloy dynamical response. Special attention is dedicated to the analysis of vibration reduction that can be achieved by considering different approaches exploiting either temperature variations promoted by electric current changes or vibration absorber techniques. The results establish that adaptability due to temperature variations is defined by a competition between stiffness and hysteretic behavior changes.
Modeling of rate-dependent damping capacity of one-dimensional superelastic shape memory alloys
Authors: Yang Shengyou , Dui Guansuo , Liu Bingfei
Published: October 2012

Recent experimental tests showed that shape memory alloys have a strong dependence of stress–strain curve on the strain rate. This rate-dependent phenomenon is mainly due to the temperature variation of shape memory alloys caused by the latent heat release/absorption during the forward/reverse phase transformation. Since there is an increasing use of shape memory alloys for civil engineering like seismic application, the complex rate-dependent properties, such as the propagation stress and the damping capacity, should be carefully analyzed. This article studies the rate-dependent stress–strain curve, especially the damping capacity, of one-dimensional NiTi shape memory alloys by using a linear model and a nonlinear model taken the rate-independent driving force in the micromechanics-inspired constitutive model. Compared with the experimental data and previous work, both models use fewer material parameters and can easily describe the trend of damping capacity with respect to the strain rate. For their clear physical meaning and simple mathematical expression, both models are useful tools for the dynamic design and simulation of superelastic shape memory alloys in practice.
Severe Post-thrombotic Syndrome is Associated With Higher Levels of Factor VIII
Authors: Bittar Luis Fernando , Paula Erich V. de , Montalvão Silmara A. L. , Mello Tayana B.T. , Annichino-Bizzacchi Joyce M.
Published: October 2012

Increased levels of factor VIII (FVIII) are a prevalent and independent risk factor for deep venous thrombosis (DVT). After a median of 10 years of the first DVT, we evaluated FVIII coagulation levels in 55 patients with DVT of the lower limbs and previous high levels of FVIII and in 74 controls. Subsequently, we analyzed the presence of post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) in patients and its relationship with FVIII levels. After a median of 10 years of the first DVT, the FVIII levels were still significantly higher in patients when compared to controls ( P < .001). Patients with severe PTS showed increased levels of FVIII when compared to patients with moderate or absent PTS ( P < .001). We demonstrated a persistent increase in FVIII levels in a subset of patients with DVT, but in a lower magnitude after 10 years of the first DVT episode. Moreover, we observed a significant association between increased FVIII levels and severe PTS.
Hematologic and Clinical Parameters After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) in Patients With Severe Aortic Stenosis
Authors: Gul Mehmet , Uyarel Huseyin , Akgul Ozgur , Uslu Nevzat , Yildirim Aydin , Eksik Abdurrahman , Aksu Hale Unal , Ozal Ender , Pusuroglu Hamdi , Erol Mustafa Kemal , Bakir Ihsan
Published: October 2012

Background:

Previous studies have demonstrated that platelet activation occurs in patients with aortic stenosis (AS). This study sought to evaluate the changes in hematologic and clinical parameters noted with the improvement in AS following transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) in patients with severe AS at high risk of surgery.

Patients and Methods:

The study included 33 patients who underwent TAVI. In addition to biochemical, clinical, and echocardiographic examinations, hematologic blood parameters were recorded before TAVI, at discharge, and at 1 and 4 months.

Results:

Mean platelet volume (MPV) showed a progressive decrease after TAVI. On echocardiography at 1 month, aortic valve area significantly increased, with significant decreases in peak and mean gradients. Progressive decreases were also noted in N-terminal proB-type natriuretic peptide levels.

Conclusion:

Our findings show that TAVI improves hemodynamic parameters of the valve with marked clinical and echocardiographic improvement, resulting in decreased platelet activation and MPV in patients with severe AS.
Do the Long-Term Consequences of Neglect Differ for Children of Different Races and Ethnic Backgrounds?
Authors: Widom Cathy Spatz , Czaja Sally , Wilson Helen W. , Allwood Maureen , Chauhan Preeti
Published: October 2012

Scant research has examined how children of different races or ethnic backgrounds manifest consequences of neglect. We examined multiple domains of functioning (academic/intellectual, social/behavioral, and psychiatric), three theories (racial invariance, double jeopardy, and resilience), and potential confounding variables. Children with documented cases of neglect (ages 0–11) and matched controls without such histories were followed up and interviewed in adulthood ( N = 1,039). The sample was 47.3% female, 62.4% White, 34.3% Black, and 3.4% Hispanic. Black and White neglected children showed negative consequences for IQ, reading ability, and occupational status compared to controls. Compared to same race and ethnic group controls, neglected White children showed extensive mental health consequences, Black children showed more anxiety and dysthymia, and Hispanic children showed increased risk for alcohol problems. Black and White neglected children differed in risk for violence compared to same race controls: Neglected Black children were arrested for violence two times more often than Black controls, whereas neglected White children were more likely than White controls to report engaging in violence. Findings provide some support for each theory (racial invariance, double jeopardy, and resilience). Understanding the factors that account for similarities and differences in consequences requires further investigation. Implications for research and policy are discussed.
Using a Sibling Design to Compare Childhood Adversities in Female Patients With BPD and Their Sisters
Authors: Laporte Lise , Paris Joel , Guttman Herta , Russell Jennifer , Correa José A.
Published: October 2012

Abuse and neglect are well-established risk correlates of borderline personality disorder (BPD). The goal of this study was to examine whether BPD probands can be differentiated from their sisters with respect to a range of developmental adversity and maltreatment indicators, including retrospective self-reports of past experiences of childhood abuse and neglect, dysfunctional parent–child relationships and peer victimization and dysfunctional peer relationships. A total of 53 patients with BPD were compared to 53 sisters who were currently free of psychopathology on measures assessing childhood adversities. Both probands and sisters reported similar prevalence of intrafamilial abuse, although BPD patients reported more severe physical and emotional abuse. BPD patients reported higher prevalence of physical abuse by peers. These findings generally support the principle of multifinality, in which similar histories of adversities can be associated with a variety of outcomes, ranging from psychopathology to resilience.
A Bottle Half Empty
Authors: Jaffee Daniel , Newman Soren
Published: October 2012

Bottled water has rapidly been transformed from an elite niche market into a ubiquitous consumer object. Yet the literature on drinking water privatization has largely neglected the growth of bottled water and its emergence as a global commodity. This article draws on Harvey’s analytic of accumulation by dispossession to explore how commodification unfolds differently across multiple forms of water. Based on ethnographic interviews with participants in two conflicts over spring water extraction in rural U.S. communities by the industry leader Nestlé, we make three arguments. First, contestation over bottled water commodification is refracted through competing framings regarding control over local water that illuminate the industry’s shifting accumulation strategies. Second, conflicts over specific instances of water extraction draw on rival narratives of the purity, uniqueness, and/or mundaneness of this commodity. Third, bottled water’s traits distinguish it materially and conceptually from tap water, necessitating a more nuanced analytical approach to its commodification.
Factors Influencing Hotel Outsourcing Decisions in Thailand
Authors: Promsivapallop Pornpisanu , Jones Peter , Roper Angela
Published: October 2012

The article aims to examine the effects of variables on outsourcing decisions in the hotel industry in Thailand. It specifically seeks to test and evaluate a theoretical framework that combines transaction cost economics (TCE) factors with additional factors affecting the level of outsourcing that emerged from a preliminary study. There is evidence to suggest that TCE explains outsourcing effectively in developed countries, but it may have less explanatory power in developing economies. Drawing on a sample of 391 hotels, each offering three activities for analysis, the results provide little support for TCE. Supplier availability, hotel experience, and hotel size are the strongest predictors of outsourcing in this study. Furthermore, because the low level of supplier market competition in hotel supporting industries in Thailand does not normally offer more efficiency and lower production cost than in-house operations, as assumed by TCE, the theory fails to provide a clear explanation for hotel outsourcing practices.
Ultrasonographic and clinicopathological features of feline gastrointestinal eosinophilic sclerosing fibroplasia in four cats
Authors: Weissman Andrea , Penninck Dominique , Webster Cynthia , Hecht Silke , Keating John , Craig Linden E
Published: October 2012

Four cats with feline gastrointestinal eosinophilic sclerosing fibroplasia (FGESF) are described. Clinical signs included decreased appetite, weight loss, vomiting and diarrhea. Bloodwork abnormalities included mild neutrophilia (n = 2) and hyperglobulinemia with concurrent hyperproteinemia (n = 2). Ultrasonographically, a total of five solitary masses with mural thickening and loss of layering were identified in the stomach, duodenum, jejunum and colon. In one cat a second, separate lesion was diagnosed 3 weeks following surgical resection of one mass. Histopathologically, lesions were characterized by collagen trabeculae and mixed inflammatory cell infiltrates, predominantly eosinophils. Multiple areas of necrosis were also noted, which contained bacteria in 2/4 cats. In two cats, changes consistent with FGESF were also noted in the liver. All cats had surgical resection of their lesions. Two cats are still living at time of publication (43 and 24 months post-surgery). FGESF should be considered as a differential for intestinal masses in cats.
Internal Shading for Efficient Tropical Daylighting in Malaysian Contemporary High-Rise Open Plan Office
Authors: Lim Yaik-Wah , Ahmad Mohd Hamdan , Ossen Dilshan Remaz
Published: October 2012

In tropical climate, there is actually abundant quantity of daylight but yet to be utilised. The excessively high and unpredictable external illuminance could cause non-uniform indoor illuminance distribution and visual discomfort. In order to improve daylighting quality in contemporary high-rise open plan offices, proper design of internal shading should be investigated. A base model was derived from previous case studies for simulation using Radiance. Various venetian blinds, vertical blinds and light shelves were configured for the experiment. Daylight factor (DF) was evaluated for quantitative performance; work plane illuminance (WPI) distribution and vertical plane luminance ratio were investigated for qualitative performance. The findings demonstrated that generally blinds were not a good potential for daylight utilisation but good in reducing luminance contrast. Light shelves improved performances in DF and WPI distribution but increased the luminance contrast. Hence, integrations of light shelves and partial venetian blind (45° closed) were proposed as the effective designs for all orientations. The highest improvements of 31.8% in WPI distribution and 66.7% in luminance ratio were achieved for south and east orientations, respectively. This paper demonstrates that with proper internal shading design, effective daylighting depth can be significantly improved from typically used 2.5 H rule of thumb to 3.6 H.