bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From Seat Cushions to Formulae
Authors: Fischer Sabine von
Published: January 2012

This chapter focuses on the interactions of sound and space, specifically the architecture of concert halls. Theories of architectural acoustics around 1900 ranged from those that were rather mystical in nature, such as those put forward by Adolf Loos, to those that were more empirical and based on the science of acoustics, such as the work of the physicist Wallace C. Sabine. By analyzing a selection of German and Austrian concert halls, including the Bösendorfer Hall in Vienna and the Berlin Philharmonie, this chapter walks readers through basic principles of architectural acoustics from the turn of the century to the post-war years.
From the Boiler Room to the Hotel Room
Authors: Swope Curtis
Published: January 2012

This chapter traces the relationship of sound to space in Wolfgang Hilbig’s novel, Das Provisorium (The Temporary Solution, 2000), and links close analysis of the text to Hilbig's participation in the 1995 WORTspielRÄUME literary sound installation in Berlin. The chapter shows how Hilbig uses sound in the text to create different but similarly ambiguous images of East Germany and West Germany. Furthermore, the WORTspielRÄUME project serves as a continuation of the critique set out in the book by using sound to draw attention to the modern problems of compromised public spheres and mass alienation.
Sentence Basics: Predication
Authors: Fahnestock Jeanne
Published: January 2012

Attention to individual words and patterns in word choice can yield important insights into argumentative effects, but what are the words actually doing in a text? Part II takes up this issue by focusing first on sentence forms, beginning with those choices that make a sentence in the first place: the subject and verb. In a first pass, English sentences can be separated into two types, stative versus active, depending on whether they categorize or characterize (typically yoking subjects and predicates with forms of the linking verb to be) or whether they make their subjects agents capable of acting through intransitive verbs or transitive verbs taking an object. Focusing on the subject/verb pairings in a text reveals who gets to be or do what in the universe the arguer constructs. To further that analysis, this chapter offers a semantic taxonomy for the kinds of subjects (agents or entities) that an arguer can use: humans, rhetorical participants, things, abstractions, concepts, and slot fillers (e.g., it is, there are). Verb choices can be analyzed according to the parameters identified by grammarians: tense, aspect, mood, negation, modality, and voice. The often-maligned passive voice is defended here as a rhetorical option. Rhetoricians have linked variables in subject/verb choice to an overall nominal versus verbal style and to individual effects like personification, pairing a thing or abstraction with a verb typically linked with a human, to the historic present, using the present tense to narrate an event from the past and zeugma or to hypozeuxis, the multiplying of subjects and verbs. This chapter includes detailed analyses of passages for subject choice and verb choice alone (in the latter case showing the importance of a progression of tenses) and of further passages from mundane news stories for their subject/verb pairings revealing their construction of a worldview.
Amplification
Authors: Fahnestock Jeanne
Published: January 2012

The all-encompassing goal of an effective rhetorical style was amplification. To amplify a point or line of argument meant to endow it with stylistic prominence and hence with conceptual importance in a text and salience in the minds of the audience. The rhetorical tradition offers two senses of amplification, first as heightening and second as expanding. Quintilian lists methods for heightening through word substitutions (auxesis), comparisons, series constructed to scale items (including topping a series or verbalizing inarticulateness), and the inclusion of details that invite leading inferences. Amplification is also achieved by simply occupying more textual space with a point, and here Erasmus is the best guide. His influential sixteenth-century manual De Copia blends all five rhetorical canons into prompts for having more to say about more things. How these devices construct expanded units is illustrated through the creation of epicheiremes. The opposite of amplification, namely diminishing, is achieved through reversing the methods that heighten and expand; e.g., weaker words are used, comparisons or series lessen, and arguers exercise brevity or fall silent. A consummate mixture of amplification and strategic brevity can achieve sublimity, a style that overwhelms rather than simply persuades. This chapter analyzes the last paragraph of Darwin's The Origin of Species (draft and final forms) as an example of sublime argumentative prose. In so doing, it reviews the methods of analysis covered in the entire book, noting Darwin's strategic choices and constructions at the word, sentence, interactive, and passage levels.
Clinical Presentation of and Outcome for Solitary Rectal Ulcer Syndrome in Children
Authors: Blackburn Carol , McDermott Michael , Bourke Billy
Published: January 2012

Background and Aims:

Solitary rectal ulcer syndrome (SRUS) is an uncommon but troublesome and easily misdiagnosed condition of childhood. We have reviewed the presentation and outcome following conservative management of a group of children with SRUS attending a single national paediatric gastrointesinal referral unit.

Methods:

Eight children were identified with histology‐proven SRUS. Chart review was conducted for relevant history and examination at diagnosis. Patients were contacted to assess success of treatment at the time of follow‐up.

Results:

Symptoms at presentation included repeated prolonged and ineffectual straining at stool, passage of blood/mucous per rectum, diarrhoea, and constipation. Most children were referred with suspected constipation, diarrhoea, or inflammatory bowel disease. On the basis of retrospective chart review, 7 of 8 children responded well to conservative management (behavioural modification programme involving reduction of time spent straining at defecation). The child failing treatment could not comply with advice because of comorbid autism. Six of the initial responders were available for follow‐up. Four were asymptomatic. Two had relapsed and were not compliant with the management programme.

Discussion/Conclusions:

SRUS can masquerade as more common childhood intestinal conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease or constipation. A biopsy is required for diagnosis, because ulceration may not be apparent at the time of endoscopy. Most patients with SRUS in childhood have a satisfactory outcome using a simple behavioural modification approach. Ongoing follow‐up to reinforce behavioural modification is important and may avoid long‐term, treatment‐resistant disease into adulthood.
Graft rejection – endogenous or allogeneic?
Authors: Critchley William R. , Fildes James E.
Published: January 2012

The presence and persistence of alloantigen is necessary for graft‐specific T‐cell‐mediated immunity. However, specificity comprises only a single facet of an extremely complex process. Evidence is accruing to suggest that immunogenicity could be manipulated by endogenous ligands released during tissue injury. Stress molecules are significantly up‐regulated following transplantation and stimulate conserved receptors on a range of leucocytes, including dendritic cells (DCs). The DCs are essential for co‐stimulation and the induction of adaptive immunity. Stress signals can act as an adjuvant leading to DC maturation and activation. DCs stimulated by endogens exhibit enhanced alloantigen presentation, co‐stimulation and production of pro‐inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) and IL‐18. Inflammasomes have a major role in IL‐1β/IL‐18 production and secretion, and can be stimulated by endogens. Importantly, the polarization toward inflammatory T helper type 17 cells as opposed to regulatory T cells is dependent upon, among other factors, IL‐1β. This highlights an important differentiation pathway that may be influenced by endogenous signals. Minimizing graft damage and stress expression should hypothetically be advantageous, and we feel that this area warrants further research, and may provide novel treatment modalities with potential clinical benefit.
Combating HIV/AIDS in Sub‐Saharan Africa: Effect of Introducing a Mastery Motivational Climate in a Community‐Based Programme
Authors: Maro Cyprian N. , Roberts Glyn
Published: January 2012

The study investigated whether mastery motivational strategies could enhance the effectiveness of life skills interventions for HIV education through sport. A quasi field experimental study was conducted in Tanzania with at‐risk children (n= 564) randomly grouped into two intervention groups and one control group. The intervention groups received AIDS education using trained peer coaches in football, with one group using mastery strategies. Children in the intervention groups all reported significantly greater HIV knowledge, and positive attitudes and safe‐sex behavioural intentions. The mastery motivational strategies reliably enhanced risk reduction for some of the variables. Canonical correlation analysis revealed meaningful relationships of mastery strategies with the variables. The life skills intervention through sport for HIV risk reduction was effective, and mastery motivational strategies enhanced that effectiveness.
SPIO‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging study of placental perfusion in a rat model of intrauterine growth restriction
Authors: Deloison B , Siauve N , Aimot S , Balvay D , Thiam R , Cuenod CA , Ville Y , Clement O , Salomon LJ
Published: January 2012

Please cite this paper as: Deloison B, Siauve N, Aimot S, Balvay D, Thiam R, Cuenod C, Ville Y, Clement O, Salomon L. SPIO‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging study of placental perfusion in a rat model of intrauterine growth restriction. BJOG 2012;119:626–633.

Objective  To assess placental perfusion with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO) in a rat model of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR).

Design  Experimental animal study.

Setting  The study complied with US National Institutes of Health recommendations for animal care.

Population  Thirty‐two rats at day 16 of gestation underwent surgical ligation of the left uterine vessel to induce IUGR.

Methods  Eighteen rats were examined by MRI 3 days later, after bolus injection of ferucarbotran.

Main outcome measure  Signal intensities were measured in the maternal left ventricle and in the placentas of the two horns. Quantitative microcirculation parameters were calculated and compared between the placentas of the two horns.

Results  Fifty‐four kinetic curves of placental perfusion were obtained in 11 rats. The mean placental blood flow was significantly lower in the ligated horns than in the normal horns (108.1 versus 159.4 ml/minute/100 ml, p = 0.0004). The mean fractional volume of the maternal vascular placental compartment did not differ significantly between the pathological (42.8%) and normal placentas (39.2%).

Conclusions  Placental perfusion, including changes during experimental IUGR, can be measured in rats by using MRI with SPIO. These findings could have implications for human studies of placental microcirculation and for the management of disorders related to placental dysfunction.
Klotho gene delivery suppresses Nox2 expression and attenuates oxidative stress in rat aortic smooth muscle cells via the cAMP‐PKA pathway
Authors: Wang Yuhong , Kuro‐o Makoto , Sun Zhongjie
Published: January 2012

Klotho is a recently discovered anti‐aging gene. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether klotho gene transfer attenuates superoxide production and oxidative stress in rat aorta smooth muscle (RASM) cells. RASM cells were transfected with AAV plasmids carrying mouse klotho full‐length cDNA (mKL) or LacZ as a control. Klotho gene transfer increased klotho expression in RASM cells. Notably, klotho gene expression decreased Nox2 NADPH oxidase protein expression but did not affect Nox2 mRNA expression, suggesting that the inhibition may occur at the posttranscriptional level. Klotho gene transfer decreased intracellular superoxide production and oxidative stress in RASM cells. Klotho gene expression also significantly attenuated the angiotensin II (AngII)‐induced superoxide production, oxidative damage, and apoptosis. Interestingly, klotho gene delivery dose dependently increased the intracellular cAMP level and PKA activity in RASM cells. Rp‐cAMP, a competitive inhibitor of cAMP, abolished the klotho‐induced increase in PKA activity, indicating that klotho activated PKA via cAMP. Notably, inhibition of cAMP‐dependent PKA activity by RP‐cAMP abolished klotho‐induced inhibition of Nox2 protein expression, suggesting an important role of cAMP‐dependent PKA in this process. This finding revealed a previously unidentified role of klotho in regulating Nox2 protein expression in RASM cells. Klotho not only downregulated Nox2 protein expression and intracellular superoxide production but also attenuated AngII‐induced superoxide production, oxidative damage, and apoptosis. The klotho‐induced suppression of Nox2 protein expression may be mediated by the cAMP–PKA pathway.
Resource Dedication and New Product Performance: A Resource‐Based View
Authors: Henard David H. , McFadyen M. Ann
Published: January 2012

Corporate investments in new product development (NPD) initiatives are strategically effective activities that are instrumental in contributing to new product performance. Given that a fundamental nature of product development is the ability to exploit new product opportunities, the authors investigate the firm‐level impact that corporate investments in knowledge workers and financialNPDresources have on new product performance. They track the resource dedication and new product financial performance of 41 firms over a seven‐year period. Our results provide evidence that financial investments have a contemporaneous return on investment while knowledge worker investments provide companies with both contemporaneous and carryover returns. When formulating strategy and makingNPDresource allocation decisions, managers must remain cognizant of the time‐dependent nature of resource investments, the need for persistent investment, and the resulting performance impact.
Glucose can promote a glucocorticoid resistance state
Authors: Kassi Eva , Papavassiliou Athanasios G.
Published: January 2012

It has been shown that ingestion of glucose, amino acids, protein or mixed meals tends to increase serum and salivary cortisol concentrations in healthy adults. Recently, it has been demonstrated that morning glucose ingestion stimulates pulsatile cortisol and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) secretion, thus elevating their mean concentrations. In light of the above, a question arises: could the frequent food – and specifically glucose – consumption lead to hypercortisolism with possible clinical implications? And can the human body, under normal conditions raise defence mechanisms against the transient hypercortisolism caused by the frequent glucose consumption? Studies have revealed novel mechanisms, which are implicated in the glucocorticoid receptor (GR)‐mediated action, providing a kind of glucocorticoid resistance. This glucocorticoid resistance could be mediated through both enhancing acetylation (via, among others, regulation of essential clock genes such as Per) and inhibiting deacetylation of GR (via possible regulation of sirtuin activity). Interestingly, the acetylation/deacetylation processes seem to be regulated by glucose. Thus, glucose apart from causing increased cortisol secretion can, simultaneously, counter‐regulate this hypercortisolism, by promoting directly and/or indirectly a glucocorticoid resistance state. Undoubtedly, before extracting conclusions regarding the clinical significance of the increased cortisol secretion following glucose ingestion, we should first thoroughly investigate the ‘defence’ mechanisms provided by ‘nature’ to handle this hypercortisolism.
Ethanol increases phosphate‐mediated mineralization and osteoblastic transformation of vascular smooth muscle cells
Authors: Oros Melinda , Zavaczki Erzsebet , Vadasz Csaba , Jeney Viktoria , Tosaki Arpad , Lekli Istvan , Balla Gyorgy , Nagy Laszlo , Balla Jozsef
Published: January 2012

Vascular calcification is implicated in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, diabetes and chronic kidney disease. Human vascular smooth muscle cells (HSMCs) undergo mineralization in response to elevated levels of inorganic phosphate (Pi) in an active and well‐regulated process. This process involves increased activity of alkaline phosphatase and increased expression of core binding factor α‐1 (CBF‐α1), a bone‐specific transcription factor, with the subsequent induction of osteocalcin. It has been shown that heavy alcohol consumption is associated with greater calcification in coronary arteries. The goal of our study was to examine whether ethanol alters mineralization of HSMCs provoked by high Pi. Exposure of HSMCs to ethanol increased extracellular matrix calcification in a dose responsive manner, providing a significant additional calcium deposition at concentrations of ≥60 mmol/l. HSMC calcification was accompanied by further enhancement in alkaline phosphatase activity. Ethanol also provoked a significant increase in the synthesis of osteocalcin. Moreover, in cells challenged with ethanol the expression of CBF‐α1, a transcription factor involved in the regulation of osteoblastic transformation of HSMCs, was elevated. The observed effects of ethanol were not due to alterations of phosphate uptake by HSMCs. We conclude that ethanol enhances Pi‐mediated human vascular smooth muscle calcification and transition of these cells into osteoblast‐like cells.
Phenological Predictability Index in BRAHMS: a tool for herbarium‐based phenological studies
Authors: Proença Carolyn E. B. , Filer Denis L. , Lenza Eddie , Silva Juliana S. , Harris Stephen A.
Published: January 2012

Phenological Predictability Index (PPI) is a tool for analysing phenological patterns incorporating herbarium data within BRAHMS (Botanical Research and Herbarium Management System). PPI produces a maximum‐activity period and associated event predictability index between ∼0 and 1. Simple, monthly random sampling showed the ideal number of unique records (event/month/year) is > 50. PPI correctly predicted the maximum‐activity flowering month for seven out of eight species studied in the field, and was positively correlated (R2= 0.610, p = 0.02) with phenophase length, even using suboptimum numbers of unique records.
Cytochrome b and FAD content in polymorphonuclear leucocytes in a family with x‐linked chronic granulomatous disease
Authors: Riccardi S. , Giordano D. , Schettini F. , De Mattia D. , Lovecchio T. , Santoro N. , Fumarulo R.
Published: January 2012

Chronic granulomatous disease (CGD), an immunodeficiency syndrome characterized by extreme susceptibility to bacterial infections, is due to a defect of the respiratory burst in human phagocytes. NADPH oxidase, the enzyme that catalyzes the reduction of oxygen and the release of oxidative radicals, was studied in polymorphonuclear leucocytes (PMNs) in a family affected by an x‐linked inheritance form at high penetrance of the disease. The contents of cytochrome b, suggested as the terminal component of the oxidase electron transport chain, and FAD, the hypothetical proximal component of the chain, were determined in patients and in carriers. Cytochrome b showed the typical behaviour of x‐linked CGD: total absence in patients, intermediate values in carriers. FAD content evaluated on plasma membranes was less decreased than cytochrome b. Carriers also showed a decrease of this flavoprotein. Cytochrome b and FAD contents were compared to NBT test and superoxide production: a clear correlation was observed for the cytochrome b, but FAD plasma membrane evaluation could also be an interesting tool for the metabolic characterization of the disease in patients and in carriers.
Aging‐related reproductive decline in the male spider monkey (Ateles geoffroyi)
Authors: Hernández‐López Leonor , Cerda‐Molina Ana L. , Díaz‐Díaz Guillermo , Chavira‐Bolaños Roberto , Mondragón‐Ceballos Ricardo
Published: January 2012

Background  It is unknown whether male black‐handed spider monkeys (Ateles geoffroyi) undergo a reproductive decline as they age. The purpose of this work was investigating whether serum testosterone and semen quality decrease with age in these primates as occur in other species.

Methods  In this study, we assessed age variations in the concentration of serum testosterone, sperm counts, and motility in nine males. We took serum blood samples and semen samples by electroejaculation of anesthetized males throughout the fertile season.

Results  We found that testosterone levels and total sperm concentration, motile, progressive, fast linearly moving, medium linearly moving, slow linearly moving and immotile sperm significantly decreased with age.

Conclusions  Our results show that a reproductive decline occurs in male spider monkeys because of a decrease in sperm counts. These results are similar to those of rhesus monkeys and men, despite the phylogenetic distance between New and Old World primates.
Mechanisms of Objectionable Textural Changes by Microwave Reheating of Foods: A Review
Authors: Mizrahi Shimon
Published: January 2012

Abstract:  Microwave reheating, compared to a conventional method, is notorious for lack of crust formation and severe toughening of flour and starch‐based products. This review discusses how the typical thermal characteristics of microwave heating are involved in affecting the texture as well as the possible role of non‐thermal effects. While low surface temperature is the well known mechanism why microwave heating is incapable of crust formation, the most severe toughening problems are caused by internal boiling. Beside moisture loss, the internally generated steam causes 2 main textural effects when it is vented out. The first is the replacing of non‐condensable gases (air) in the product voids with a condensable one (steam). When the latter is condensed by cooling, a vacuum may be created in the voids causing their collapse and a formation of a more compact and tougher structure. The second textural effect involves amylose extraction from starch granules and its redistribution to eventually form a rich layer on the walls of the structural foam cells of the baked goods. Relatively fast crystallization of the amylose seems to be the main cause of toughening a short while after microwave heating. This mechanism is relevant mainly to products where starch is an important structural element. Structural disruptions by localize excessive steam pressure at hot‐spots are also discussed in this review as well as methods of preventing or alleviating the most objectionable textural changes. The most effective ways of preventing these undesirable changes are by avoiding internal boiling and/or by manipulating the starch content and properties.
Physicochemical Properties and Sensory Analysis of Duck Meatballs Containing Duck Meat Surimi‐Like Material during Frozen Storage
Authors: Nurkhoeriyati T. , Huda N. , Ahmad R.
Published: January 2012

Abstract:  The physicochemical properties and sensory analysis of duck meatballs containing duck meat surimi‐like material during frozen storage were evaluated. Properties of meatballs containing duck surimi‐like material prepared by acid solubilization (ACDS), alkaline solubilization (ALDS), and conventional processing (CDS) as well as duck mince (as the control, CON) were compared. ACDS had significantly higher (P < 0.05) moisture and protein content and lower fat content compared with CON. The thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances (TBARS) value of all samples increased as the storage time increased up to week 8 (P < 0.05), but thereafter it decreased in most of the samples. ACDS and ALDS had significantly higher TBARS values (P < 0.05), and these values remained higher than those of the other samples throughout the frozen storage period. Addition of surimi‐like material to the meatballs had significant effects (P < 0.05) on springiness, gumminess, and chewiness values of all samples. Ingredients and frozen storage affected most sensory attributes in samples significantly (P<0.05). No significant increase in growth of organisms occurred during 12‐wk frozen storage The results indicate that acid‐alkaline solubilization methods improve both physicochemical and sensory properties of duck meatballs containing duck surimi‐like material. Thus, these techniques should be applicable to product development of duck surimi‐like material.
Antinuclear antibodies testing as a routine screening for systemic lupus erythematosus in patients presenting first‐episode psychosis
Authors: Mantovani Célia , Louzada‐Junior Paulo , Nunes Emerson Arcoverde , de Figueiredo Felipe Pinheiro , Oliveira Glício Rebouças , Del‐Ben Cristina Marta
Published: January 2012

Aims: This report discusses the use of antinuclear antibody (ANA) detection as a screening test for neuropsychiatry systemic lupus erythematosus (NPSLE) in patients presenting a first‐episode psychosis.

Methods: We reviewed the medical records of 85 patients admitted to an emergency service due to first‐episode psychosis, during a 1‐year period, for whom ANA detection was performed through an IFI HEp2 cell assay. ANA‐positive patients were subsequently evaluated for autoantibodies and neuroimaging exams.

Results: Three patients presented as ANA positive in the initial screening and further investigation confirmed NPSLE in two patients. The patients were treated with antipsychotics and cyclophosphamide pulses with satisfactory outcomes.

Conclusion: Even though ANA detection is not specific, it is a low‐cost procedure and could be an important screening test for NPSLE in the early‐onset psychosis.
Marital intimacy in patients with an eating disorder: A controlled self‐report study
Authors: Van den Broucke Stephan , Vandereycken Walter , Vertommen Hans
Published: January 2012

The clinical literature on married patients with anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa suggests a lack of intimacy in these couples. This assumption was tested by comparing the scores on the Marital Intimacy Questionnaire of 21 eating‐disordered (ED) couples with those of two matched control groups of 21 maritally distressed (MD) and 21 non‐distressed (ND) couples. The overall level of intimacy attained by ED couples is lower than that of ND couples but higher than that of MD couples. Whereas this quantitative difference may reflect the couples' differences in marital satisfaction (as assessed by the Maudsley Marital Questionnaire), an additional qualitative discrimination can be made between ED couples and the two control groups on account of the former group's relatively low level of openness and high level of intimacy problems.
Endorsement and memory bias of self‐referential pain stimuli in depressed pain patients
Authors: Pincus Tamar , Pearce Shirley , McClelland Alastair , Isenberg David
Published: January 2012

This study investigates information processing in chronic pain patients by comparing the responses of depressed pain patients, non‐depressed pain patients and non‐pain control subjects. Each subject contributed two scores: endorsement of adjectives as descriptors of themselves and their best‐friends; and free recall of the presented words. The stimuli consisted of depression‐related, pain‐related and neutral control adjectives, and each content category was split into negative and positive valence. The four‐way interaction between group, reference, content and valence was significant both in the recall data and the endorsement data. Further analysis revealed that depressed pain patients exhibited a bias towards self‐referential negative pain words, but not towards self‐referential negative depression information. These results are interpreted in line with content specificity theory of information processing and have implications for targeting cognitive interventions with pain patients.
Does hospital rundown affect long‐stay clients?
Authors: Dickinson David , Kruppa Eric
Published: January 2012

In order to examine what happens to long‐stay clients who remain in hospital, a retrospective analysis of annual surveys between 1984 and 1992 was undertaken. Data were derived from the REHAB scale, which provides measures of patient Total General Behaviour (TGB) and Deviant Behaviour (DB), together with data from the Supplementary Information Questionnaire (SIQ). Results indicate that skills and behaviour, as measured by TGB, do not deteriorate as a function of continuous length of stay or increasing age. However, TGB for certain clients is adversely affected by a reduction in the level of structured activity occurring during major episodes of contraction leading up to closure. In contrast, DB, which is relatively high for this group, fluctuates independently of rundown. The implications for hospital services in transition are discussed.
Supercharging of a Large Two-Cycle, Loop-Scavenged Diesel Engine
Authors: Henriksen A. J.
Published: January 2012

The paper covers the mechanical and thermodynamic aspects of increasing the power output and thermal efficiency of an existing nonsupercharged two-cycle, loop-scavenged diesel engine through supercharging. The power output was increased by 40 per cent and the thermal efficiency by approximately 4 per cent. Much of the thermodynamic work was done on a UNIVAC computer and a brief description of the theoretical approach and results appear in this paper. Field test results from a Nordberg two-cycle, 21 1/2-in. × 31-in. supercharged engine are also included in this paper.
Combustion of Crushed, Dried Texas Lignite and Char in Steam Power Boilers
Authors: Caracristi V. Z. , Mumper H. D.
Published: January 2012

The development and application of a processed lignite fuel to the generation of high-pressure, high-temperature steam are described. The economics of this processed fuel for steam generation is a part of the over-all economics of low-cost power generation for the production of aluminum.
Reducing Thermal Stress in Turbine Cylinders Subjected to Cyclic Service
Authors: Sinton Walter , Warner R. E.
Published: January 2012

The current problem of cracked cylinders encountered on steam turbines subjected to cyclic service points up the need for a better understanding of the thermal stresses which cause the difficulty, and for techniques to minimize and control these stresses. This paper establishes an improved approach to operation based on applying instrumentation to monitor and limit temperature gradients to recommended values. Benefits of heating manifolds are discussed. The advantage inherent in flexible inlet features has been incorporated into current cylinder designs for units operating in the range of 850 to 950 F inlet temperature.
Cascade Performance From Tests With Wheel of Axial Outlet
Authors: Ohlsson Gunnar O.
Published: January 2012

A method of determining overall cascade performance by means of torque measurements on a wheel with axial outlet is given. The method, which is believed to be new, is particularly suited for small axial turbines or compressors. It gives the overall performance in actual turbomachines and includes all losses. The method is simpler and gives more accurate results than the elaborate method of traversing, for instance, in small axial turbomachines with blade height below 0.1 inch. A one dimensional analysis is given and applied to two known flow conditions in order to obtain a comparison with other ways of evaluating these flow conditions. The relationship between cascade efficiencies defined in different ways is shown, and an illustrative example is given.
A Study of Induced Vorticity in Centrifugal Compressors
Authors: Ellis G. O.
Published: January 2012

Recent investigations have moved a step closer to an understanding of real fluid phenomena in turbomachines by studying rotational flow once it has been established by viscous stresses and nonuniform exchange of energy. The present paper presents a more generalized mathematical treatment of rotational flow (Part I) and makes use of the equations developed to analyze experimentally observed phenomena in the impeller (Part II) and the diffuser (Part III) of a compressor. These studies show that induced vorticity in the impeller produces a nonuniform energy exchange which is the basis for additional rotational effects in the diffuser. Also the amount of vorticity generated varies with flow rate which increases the sensitivity of downstream components to changes in flow rate and thereby reduces compressor range. In the particular diffuser studied, the flow conditions, up to the point of separation, were all established primarily by the induced vorticity while shearing stresses next to the wall seemed to have a negligible influence. Downstream from the beginning of separation, however, an apparent shift in energy distribution is observed which could not be accounted for by the analysis. It is demonstrated that separation is detrimental to vaneless diffuser performance only if it is located at the diffuser discharge. Since the location of separation is a function of the vorticity induced, which varies with the flow rate, a widely spaced diffuser can have substantial variations in performance with a significant influence on the compressor characteristics.
Design Comments and Experimental Results for Cavitation-Resistant Inducers up to 40,000 Suction Specific Speed
Authors: Wright M. K.
Published: January 2012

General geometric design considerations for cavitation resistant inducers are discussed, particularly those related to the “trial and error” type not covered by the textbook approach. A general correlation of four dimensionless cavitation parameters is developed. Experimental data for typical rocket engine pumps are given where suction specific speed values up to 40,000 are obtained. Finally, several schemes are given for augmenting the cavitation resistance.
Quality Control and Service Performance
Authors: Thielsch H.
Published: January 2012

Quality control requirements are discussed as they pertain to (a) materials specifications; (b) fabrication specifications including welding, heat-treatment, and cleaning; and (c) final inspection specifications. Current standard and specification writing practice is resulting in considerable confusion among the users of these specifications. Realistic levels of quality control commensurate with service requirements need to be established. Lack of recognition of service requirements has resulted in excessively tight quality control requirements. Excessive repairs have led to more serious defect conditions not detectable by the normal inspection requirements involved.
The Slip Factor of a Radial Bladed Centrifugal Compressor
Authors: Stahler Alfred F.
Published: January 2012

Several of the methods of explaining and evaluating the slip factor of a centrifugal impeller with straight radial blades are presented. The slip factors are calculated by these methods and compared to the experimentally observed characteristics of an impeller with 19 blades. It is shown that the slip factor depends on the gas-flow rate, the rotational speed, and the impeller-tip diameter. It is concluded that the slip-factor characteristics are better described by means of a constant leaving angle of the flow relative to the impeller and that the leaving angle is only a function of the impeller geometry.
Compressor Surge in Gas Turbines and Blast Furnace Compressor Installations
Authors: Strub R. A. , Suter P.
Published: January 2012

The character of different surge cycles is described, and the corresponding influence on the dynamic loading of the blades of axial flow compressors is discussed. It is shown that essentially fatigue is governed by the rapidity of loading or unloading of the blading. Test results from an experimental 4-stage axial flow compressor showed that the induced dynamic stresses in the blades, which reach about three times the steady gas bending stresses, can lead to fatigue failure. Reference is also made to previous surge tests carried out on a gas turbine installation, which indicate that a good correlation can be expected between the calculated and the measured pressure distribution. Mention is made of the fatigue failure of the rotor blades of an industrial compressor submitted to a long period of intense surging.
The Increase in the Maximum Heat-Release Rate and Apparent Flame Strength of Opposed-Jet Diffusion Flames Under Impressed Electric Fields
Authors: Rezy Bernard J. , Heinsohn Robert J.
Published: January 2012

This paper is concerned with a study of the behavior of opposed-jet diffusion flames subjected to electrostatic fields. A theory for an idealized diffusion flame is presented which predicts an increase in the maximum volumetric heat-release rate when a flame is subjected to an electric field. Experiments reveal that the maximum mass flow into the flame increases with the application of an electric field.
An Empirical Method for Calculating Radial Pressure Distribution on Rotating Disks
Authors: Due H. F.
Published: January 2012

This paper presents the results of an investigation conducted to develop more accurate equations for predicting the radial pressure distribution on enclosed rotating disks with or without blades and with radial outward or inward throughflow. Variables that affect pressure distribution, such as blade height, number of blades, axial blade top-to-housing clearance, flow rate, and rotor speed, were investigated. The results are applicable to the design for turbomachinery and, in particular, centrifugal pumps. The investigation was divided into two phases, the first of which used water as the test fluid and the second, liquid hydrogen. The results of the water tests were presented at the ASME Aviation and Space Conference, March, 1965. This paper presents the results of the tests conducted with liquid hydrogen. Empirical equations were derived from the test data relating the fluid angular velocity ratio to the significant variables by using a statistical regression-analysis method programmed for the IBM 7090. A comparison is made of the results obtained from the two fluids, water and liquid hydrogen.
Bacterial Nanocellulose for Medicine Regenerative
Authors: de Olyveira Gabriel Molina , Manzine Costa Ligia Maria , Basmaji Pierre , Xavier Filho Lauro
Published: January 2012

Bacterial cellulose (BC) has established to be a remarkably versatile biomaterial and can be used in a wide variety of applied scientific endeavours, especially for medical devices. Nanocellulose, such as that produced by the bacteria Gluconacetobacter xylinus (bacterial cellulose, BC), is an emerging biomaterial with great potential in flexible radar absorbing materials, in scaffold for tissue regeneration, water treatment, and medical applications. Bacterial cellulose nanofibril bundles have excellent intrinsic properties due to their high crystallinity, which is higher than that generally recorded for macroscale natural fibers and is of the same order as the elastic modulus of glass fibers. Compared with cellulose from plants, BC also possesses higher water holding capacity, higher degree of polymerization (up to 8000), and a finer weblike network. In addition, BC is produced as a highly hydrated and relatively pure cellulose membrane, and therefore no chemical treatments are needed to remove lignin and hemicelluloses, as is the case for plant cellulose. Because of these characteristics, biomedical devices recently have gained a significant amount of attention because of an increased interest in tissue-engineered products for both wound care and the regeneration of damaged or diseased organs. Hydrophilic bacterial cellulose fibers of an average diameter of 50 nm are produced by the bacterium Acetobacter xylinum, using a fermentation process. The architecture of BC materials can be engineered over length scales ranging from nano to macro by controlling the biofabrication process. Moreover, the nanostructure and morphological similarities with collagen make BC attractive for cell immobilization and cell support. This review describes the fundamentals, purification, and morphological investigation of bacterial cellulose. Besides, microbial cellulose modification and how to increase the compatibility between cellulosic surfaces and a variety of plastic materials have been reported. Furthermore, provides deep knowledge of current and future applications of bacterial cellulose and their nanocomposites especially in the medical field.
Case‐control study of cases of bovine spongiform encephalopathy born after July 31, 1996 (BARB cases) in Great Britain
Authors: Ortiz‐Pelaez A. , Stevenson M. A. , Wilesmith J. W. , Ryan J. B. M. , Cook A. J. C.
Published: January 2012

This paper reports the results of a case‐control study of the bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) cases born in Great Britain after the statutory reinforcement of the ban (BARB) on the feeding of mammalian‐derived meat and bone meal on 31 July 1996.

A total of 499 suspect clinical cases of BSE, born after 31 July 1996, and reported negative by July 31, 1996 and were compared with the set of 164 confirmed Great BARB cases in Great Britain detected by both passive and active surveillance. Animal‐level risk factors (age and type of feed offered) and herd‐level risk factors (herd size and type, number of prereinforced feed ban BSE cases born on the holding, the presence of other domestic species and waste management) were obtained for the analysis.

BARB cases were 2.56 times (95 per cent CI 1.29 to 5.07) more likely to be exposed to homemix or a combination of homemix and proprietary feeds were 0.59 times (95 per cent CI 0.50 to 0.69) as less likely to be exposed to the unit increases in the number of prereinforced feed ban BSE cases diagnosed on the natal holding. A supplementary spatial analysis of these cases revealed three areas of excess BARB density: Northwest and Southwest of Wales and Northeast of Scotland.
YANGIANS IN INTEGRABLE FIELD THEORIES, SPIN CHAINS AND GAUGE-STRING DUALITIES
Authors: SPILL FABIAN
Published: January 2012

In the following paper, which is based on the author's PhD thesis submitted to Imperial College London, we explore the applicability of Yangian symmetry to various integrable models, in particular, in relation with S-matrices. One of the main themes in this work is that, after a careful study of the mathematics of the symmetry algebras one finds that in an integrable model, one can directly reconstruct S-matrices just from the algebra. It has been known for a long time that S-matrices in integrable models are fixed by symmetry. However, Lie algebra symmetry, the Yang–Baxter equation, crossing and unitarity, which constrain the S-matrix in integrable models, are often taken to be separate, independent properties of the S-matrix. Here, we construct scattering matrices purely from the Yangian, showing that the Yangian is the right algebraic object to unify all required symmetries of many integrable models. In particular, we reconstruct the S-matrix of the principal chiral field, and, up to a CDD factor, of other integrable field theories with 𝔰𝔲(n) symmetry. Furthermore, we study the AdS/CFT correspondence, which is also believed to be integrable in the planar limit. We reconstruct the S-matrices at weak and at strong coupling from the Yangian or its classical limit.

We give a pedagogical introduction into the subject, presenting a unified perspective of Yangians and their applications in physics. This paper should hence be accessible to mathematicians who would like to explore the application of algebraic objects to physics as well as to physicists interested in a deeper understanding of the mathematical origin of physical quantities.
A DIAGRAMMATIC ALEXANDER INVARIANT OF TANGLES
Authors: BIGELOW STEPHEN
Published: January 2012

We give a new construction of the one-variable Alexander polynomial of an oriented knot or link, and show that it generalizes to a vector valued invariant of oriented tangles.
NASH NETWORKS WITH IMPERFECT RELIABILITY AND HETEROGEOUS PLAYERS
Authors: BILLAND PASCAL , BRAVARD CHRISTOPHE , SARANGI SUDIPTA
Published: January 2012

This paper combines the imperfect reliability model of Bala and Goyal [2000b] with the heterogeneous player model of Galeotti et al. [2006]. We compare existence, characterization and efficiency results in the resulting framework with the results in other frameworks allowing for imperfect reliability or heterogeneity. Specifically, we compare our work with the framework of Haller and Sarangi [2005] which allows for heterogeneity in link reliability but assumes that players are homogeneous. We find, by contrast with their paper, that non existence of Nash networks is possible in our framework even if the population is very small. Moreover, although the incentives of players to maintain (or delete) links are different, in both frameworks there exist parameters such that every essential network is strict Nash and efficient.
A COMPARATIVE RESEARCH ON FACEBOOK NETWORKS IN DIFFERENT INSTITUTIONS
Authors: HU HAI-BO , GUO JIN-LI
Published: January 2012

We study Facebook networks at 40 American universities, with focus on the comparison of their degree distributions and mechanism governing their evolution. We find that the heterogeneity indexes of these networks are all small compared with scale-free networks, and different from real-world social networks 5 Facebook networks show significant degree disassortativity; the exponent γ for the power-law model of the degree distributions is large for the networks, indicating obvious homogeneity of network structure. We calculate the goodness-of-fit between the data and power law and find that the p-values are larger than threshold 0.1 for 20 networks, implying that power law is a plausible hypothesis; we compare the power-law model with 4 alternative competing distributions and find that power-law model gives the best fit for all 40 networks. However in wider interval of degrees some other distributions, such as log-normal or stretched exponential, can give the best fit. Further based on the homogeneity of Facebook we propose an analyzable model that integrates the introduction of new vertices and edges. The edges can be established either between new vertices and old vertices or between old vertices. The model captures the real evolution processes of Facebook networks and can well reproduce their degree distributions.
MODIFIED PARTITION FUNCTIONS, CONSISTENT ANOMALIES AND CONSISTENT SCHWINGER TERMS
Authors: VARSHOVI AMIR ABBASS
Published: January 2012

A gauge invariant partition function is defined for gauge theories which leads to the standard quantization. It is shown that the descent equations and consequently the consistent anomalies and Schwinger terms can be extracted from this modified partition function naturally.
PERFECT FLUIDS FROM HIGH POWER SIGMA-MODELS
Authors: SLOBODEANU RADU
Published: January 2012

Certain critical points of a sextic sigma-model Lagrangian reminiscent of Skyrme model correspond to perfect fluids with stiff matter equation of state. We analyze from a differential geometric perspective this correspondence extended to general barotropic fluids.