bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Technical Evaluation of Textile Finishing Treatments
Authors: Winn Lelia J. , Schwarz Edward R.
Published: July 2017

A series of ten fabrics, ranging from organdie through tracing cloth to a thick, stiff-finished cotton material, and varying in weight from approximately 5 milligrams per square centimeter (1.46 ounces per square yard) to approximately 45 milligrams per square centimeter (13.25 ounces per square yard), have been compared for bending length, rigidity, bending modulus, bending torque, chord length and radius of curvature by means of the drape tester, the hanging loop, Gurley stiffness tester and the Schiefer flexometer. The tests were all con ducted in an atmosphere closely approximating standard conditions after adequate conditioning of the samples in this same atmosphere.
Controls for the Size Box
Authors: Yelland William E.
Published: July 2017

( 1) Closer automatic control of size box temperature is ob tained when the size level is also controlled automatically.

(2) In small shallow size boxes, such as exist on certain rayon slashers, the size level can be controlled more effectively by an elec trical contact rather than by the use of devices depending on size temperature.

(3) When level or temperature controls are installed in a size box the surface of the control exposed to the size should be composed of a metal as nearly like that of the lining of the size box as pos sible; otherwise, corrosion—due to electrolytic action set up by dis similar metals in close contact with each other and immersed in the hot size liquor—may cause serious difficulties.
Surface per Gram of Cotton Fibres as a Measure of Fibre Fineness
Authors: Sullivan R.R. , Hertel K.L.
Published: July 2017

It is suggested that fibre surface per gram of fibre be used as a measure of fibre fineness. An air-flow method of quickly and accu rately measuring this quantity is described. Either high-porosity (.984 < ε < .994) or low-porosity (.665 < ε < .89) wads may be used with proper calibration, though wads of intermediate porosity are avoided. The method is checked against determinations by a microscope, and calibrations for two particular pieces of apparatus are given.
X-ray Studies of Silk Fibres
Authors: McNicholas H.J.
Published: July 2017

X-ray studies were made of a Bombyx mori type of silk and of a Tussah silk. Differences in the diffractive properties of the fibroin components of these silks are recorded. Diffraction bands were found for the sericin components of each type of silk, show ing that this component also exists on the fibre in a partially crystalline condition but with a lower degree of crystallite orien tation than is exhibited by the fibroin component. The positions of the observed sericin bands are different for each type of silk. Comparison of the diffraction patterns of hard and soft silks of the Bombyx mori type showed no significant difference between them.
One-Step Wet-Fixation Deposition Process for Cotton Using Low Add-Ons of Resin
Authors: Vail Sidney L. , Verburg Gerald B. , Young Alvin H. P. , Parikh D. V.
Published: July 2017

An improved process for precure or postcure durable-press, colored cotton fabrics has been developed through the pilot-plant stage. In an efficient use of reagents, resins are deposited or fixed in the swollen cotton fiber and then cured to produce a highly wrinkle-resistant fabric with a minimum of strength and abrasion losses. The steaming, under drying conditions, of fabric impregnated with melamine resins and a cross-linking agent at pH 3.5–6 provides the necessary deposition and “fixation” reaction. Curing of the steamed fabric completes the polymerization and cross-linking required for the process.

Details are presented which were selected to assist in the commercialization of this process. It is believed the degrees of freedom available in the steaming conditions and choice of reagents and acidity are general enough to assure a successful scale-up.
The Function of Swelling in the Finishing of Cotton
Authors: Jeffries R. , Warwicker J. O.
Published: July 2017

The mechanism of the interfibrillar and intrafibrillar swelling of cotton has been investigated by infrared and x-ray methods. Emphasis is on swelling in caustic soda, but other reagents are also considered. The presence of intrafibrillar swelling can be shown by detection of intermediate complex formation, while the swelling agents are present. The swelling behavior and the structural changes produced in the cotton are modified by the effects of tension and also by the presence of additives in the swelling solution. Whether the swelling complexes are intermediate in the conversion of cellulose I to cellulose II, or a reconversion to cellulose I results on washing out the swelling agent and drying, depends on the degree of swelling at different stages of the process. Intrafibrillar swelling is usually accompanied by an increase in the hydrogen-bond disorder, even if reconversion to cellulose I takes place, and the detection of this increase in disorder by ir-deuteration methods may be the only indication of an intrafibrillar swelling process. An explanation of the observed behavior is put forward in terms of the concept of cellulose sheets.

The ideas developed from a study of the swelling of cotton by caustic soda and other swelling agents have been used in explaining the effects found in the mercerization and other finishing processes applied to cotton.
Alcohol Policy: Gaps between Legislative Action and Current Research
Authors: Wagenaar Alexander C. , Toomey Traci L.
Published: July 2017

This paper compares alcohol policies under debate in U.S. state legislatures with policies that have been the focus of research attention. We reviewed the research literature to identify empirical studies of each policy and types of outcome variables analyzed. The two most evaluated alcohol control policies are the minimum legal drinking age and excise tax. Eight other policies had 20 or more studies evaluating them. The remaining alcohol policies received little attention in the research literature. Alcohol consumption and traffic crashes were the most frequent outcomes used in alcohol policy studies. Most studies evaluated policy changes at the state or national level, with few studies of local or institutional policies. During 1997 some 463 alcohol control bills were introduced at state legislatures. Many specific alcohol policies under debate in state legislatures have little research evidence to guide policy decision-making, pointing to areas where future research is needed.
Arrest, Court and Social Impacts of Conviction for a Minor Cannabis Offense under Strict Prohibition
Authors: Lenton Simon , Heale Penny
Published: July 2017

As part of an evaluation of the social impacts of the South Australian cannabis expiation notice (CEN) system, 68 West Australians who received their first criminal conviction for a minor cannabis offense participated in a quantitative and qualitative interview study to examine the impact of the conviction on their lives. Respondents saw themselves as largely law abiding, had respect for the law in general, and held positive views regarding cannabis. The conviction had little impact on subsequent cannabis use; however, a significant minority reported further problems with the law and problems with employment, accommodation, relationships and travel opportunities. This paper primarily reports on the descriptive quantitative and qualitative data from the study. The findings have implications for the legislative options for regulation of cannabis possession and use.
Opinions about Alcohol Control Policies Among Brazilians: The First National Alcohol Survey
Authors: Pinsky Ilana , Sanches Marcos , Zaleski Marcos , Laranjeira Ronaldo , Caetano Raul
Published: July 2017

Several general-population alcohol surveys have been conducted in Brazil in the past 25 years, none using probability sampling methodology. This article focuses on the results of the first alcohol national survey in Brazil, particularly as it concerns support for six alcohol policies. A total of 2,346 interviews were conducted with adults aged 18 and older. The interviews, averaging 53 minutes in length, were conducted face to face in the respondent's home by trained interviewers using a standardized questionnaire, with an overall response rate of 66.4%.

Overall at least half of the respondents supported the six alcohol policies analyzed. Gender, intensity of alcohol consumption and age were the main variables associated with approval of the alcohol policies. The relatively high level of support for the alcohol policies suggests that there is room for developing new measures in the area in Brazil.
The Need for Policy Alternatives to Address Alcohol and Other Drug Problems: Developing a Behavioral Risk Insurance Model
Authors: Skinner Wayne
Published: July 2017

Current approaches to funding addictions are critiqued as being fundamentally flawed and inadequate, in spite of the fact that disproportionate amounts of revenues come from the most vulnerable users of alcohol and other drugs. A new approach is proposed, constructing alcohol and other drug use as risky behavior for which users could be insured based on the amount they consume. By adding 5 cents to the cost of every standard drink consumed, the current investment in Ontario, which is spent almost exclusively on treatment services, would be doubled, allowing for funding to be extended to prevention and research initiatives. Ontario's problem gambling strategy, where a percentage of gambling revenues is used to fund treatment, prevention and research into gambling problems, illustrates the potential of such an approach. The behavioral risk insurance model offers a novel way of addressing alcohol and other problems, and could be extended to a wide range of behaviors that carry the risk of harm because of their addictive potential.
Heterogeneous Polymer Blends II. Physical Properties of Binary Elastomer Composites
Authors: Weissert F. C. , Avgeropoulos G. N.
Published: July 2017

Tensile properties of two-phase elastomer-elastomer vulcanizates were measured and evaluated in terms of the initial number average molecular weight (Mn), the crosslink density (veff) and the glass temperatures (Tg's) of the composite. Interpretations of the tensile behavior of elastomers with a single Tg are reasonably clear. Such interpretations are much more complex for heterogenous blends of two materials having dissimilar viscoelastic properties.

Heterogeneous blends of either an EPDM (−60° Tg) with a BR (−60° Tg) or with an EPDM (−60° Tg) with a BR (−5° Tg) were prepared with differing composition, morphology and two levels of radiation crosslinking. The morphology of the samples used in this study has been described in Part 1.[1]

The rupture energies of the blends having −60°/05° Tg's were usually greater than a weight averaged value of the components and for equivalent compositions were higher than that obtained for blends having equal (−60°/−60°) Tg's. This favorable synergism persisted after the data were put into a form which takes into account the large effects of Mn.Veff and Tg. The effect of domain size in the experimental range of 0.2 to 10 micrometres on rupture energy was small. There is some evidence for a maximum in rupture energy at the 1 micrometre level.

At a given Mooney–Rivlin 2C1 modulus, a higher rupture energy was observed for vulcanizates from the higher Mn blends. Such higher Mn vulcanizates have a higher ratio of physical entanglements to chemical crosslinks and a lower proportion of free ends in the network.
Mucociliary Transport of Human Ear Secretions in Otitis Media with Effusion
Authors: Brown David T. , Litt Mitchell , Marsh Roger R. , Potsic William P.
Published: July 2017

Rheologically active mucus glycoproteins (mucins) were isolated from the middle ear effusions of 282 patients (344 ears) presenting with secretory otitis media (SOM). The mucins were pooled according to the pathologic condition associated with the SOM. Pools were reconstituted to the same conditions and tested for ciliary transport rates with the use of the frog palate transport model. Mucin obtained from cleft palate patients showed significant differences in transport behavior in comparison with mucins from other groups of patients with SOM.
Nutritional Status‐a Prognostic Indicator in Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Brookes Gerald B.
Published: July 2017

A prospective study into the nutritional status of 114 patients with untreated primary squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck was undertaken to assess its possible prognostic value for survival. Nutritional status was evaluated by anthropometry, creatinine height index estimation, serum albumin and transferrin assays, and nitrogen balance studies. Weight change and other anthropometric indices found to be the most reliable nutritional parameters were averaged to derive a clinically useful, general nutritional status score. A nutritional deficit was found in 43 of the 114 patients (37.7%) and was associated with neoplasms of the upper gastrointestinal tract in more than 80% of the patients. Life table analysis showed a statistically very highly significant difference between the survival of the adequately nourished patients (57.5% at 2 years) and the survival of the undernourished patients (7.5% at 2 years) (χ2 = 36.08; P =. 0). These results indicate that nutritional deficiency is an important adverse prognostic factor in head and neck cancer. Undernutrition probably exerts its effect, at least in part, by causing secondary immunologic dysfunction.
Metastatic Basal Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck
Authors: Conley John , Sachs Michael Evan , Romo Thomas , Labay Gerald , Gillooley John
Published: July 2017

Five new cases of metastatic basal cell carcinoma are presented to highlight the potential of this tumor to develop malignant metastases. Histologic criteria of the primary and metastatic site are presented along with a review of the pertinent world literature.
Graves' Disease Associated with Histologic Hashimoto's Thyroiditis
Authors: Falk Stephen A. , Birken Eric A. , Ronquillo A. H.
Published: July 2017

The microscopic slides of 16 patients who underwent bilateral subtotal thyroidectomy for hyperthyroid Graves' disease were reviewed and classified into three groups: I, Hashimoto's thyroiditis; II, Graves' disease; and III, both Hashimoto's thyroiditis and Graves' disease. Three patients were classified as group 1, 10 as group II, and three as group III. In 38% of the patients with clinical Graves' disease the histologic evidence of Hashimoto's thyroiditis could be found either alone or in combination with histologic evidence of Graves' disease (groups I and III). One patient in group I, four in group II, and three in group III had infiltrative ophthalmopathy (50% of total). Hyperthyroid Graves' disease, Graves' ophthalmopathy, and Hashimoto's thyroiditis can occur all together, in duads, or individually at a specific time in a patient's life.
Management of Subglottic Stenosis in Children
Authors: Catlin Francis I. , Spankus Elizabeth M.
Published: July 2017

We treated 21 children for subglottic stenosis at the Texas Children's Hospital from 1975 to 1983. Ages ranged from newborn to 14 years. Fifteen (71%) were younger than 13 months of age. Prolonged intubation was thought to be a primary contributing factor in 16 of 21 (76%). Nineteen (90%) required tracheotomy. Of these, 11 (58%) were decannulated, four (21%) have not been decannulated, and four (21%) were lost to follow‐up. Two of the 11 children who were successfully decannulated required laryngotracheoplasty or thyrotomy. There were three instances of complications and no deaths.
Further Observations on the Role of IgE‐Mediated Hypersensitivity in Recurrent Otitis Media with Effusion
Authors: Bernstein Joel M. , Lee Josephine , Conboy Kathleen , Ellis Elliott , Li Phillip
Published: July 2017

One hundred young patients with recurrent otitis media with effusion (OME) were evaluated for IgE‐mediated hypersensitivity by critical analysis of history, physical findings, skin testing for selected antigen, laboratory determination of total IgE, and radioallergosorbent testing (RAST) for six inhalant and two food allergens. The patients could be divided into allergic rhinitis and nonallergic groups. Allergic rhinitis patients had higher total IgE in their serum, and middle ear effusion (MEE). IgE was elevated in 16 of 35 allergic patients. in 8 of these 16 (23% of the allergic group), the IgE/mg protein was higher in the MEE than in the corresponding serum, suggesting local production of IgE. Nasal IgE was substantially increased in the allergic patients; however, in many patients there was no correlation between the corresponding MEE IgE and elevated nasal IgE, suggesting that local production of nasal and middle ear IgE is Independent. We conclude that IgE‐mediated allergic reactions may play a role in the pathogenesis of OME in about 23% of young allergic patients.
Laser Lateralization for Bilateral Vocal Cord Abductor Paralysis
Authors: Remsen Kenneth , Lawson William , Patel Niroo , Biller Hugh F.
Published: July 2017

Unilateral laser excision of the thyroarytenoid muscle combined with suture lateralization of the vocal ligament was successful in 13 of 14 patients (93%) treated for bilateral abduction immobility sufficient to require tracheotomy. Among the four patients requiring revision surgery, three had cricoarytenoid fixation and one had vocal cord paralysis. All patients had a satisfactory voice after surgery. The anesthetic management of laser microsurgery is discussed.
Operations on the Saccus Endolymphaticus and Vestibular Nerve: Have they Fulfilled their Promise?
Authors: Smyth G.D.L. , Kerr A.G. , Primrose W.
Published: July 2017

The rationale for operations on the saccus and vestibular nerve in patients incapacitated by Meniere's disease as a replacement for total labyrinthectomy, has been the expectancy that less radical procedures will protect these patients from total auditory incapacity. Aware of postoperative hearing losses in some patients after 3 years, we have studied the results in 21 Shambaugh saccus decompression (SD) and 29 middle fossa vestibular nerve section (VNS) operations, in order to assess the claims made for these procedures. We found that while control of vertigo was similar to that reported elsewhere, worse hearing (AAOO criteria) developed in many cases. With SD this increased from 14% at 1 year to 58% at 10 years, and with VNS it increased from 17% at 1 year to 48% at 10 years, when the worse preoperative audiogram was used. Only 17% of SD and 11% VNS ears with serviceable best preoperative hearing had retained this at 10 years. Nineteen percent developed audiometric evidence of contralateral disease during the first 10 postoperative years. It is concluded that although, regrettably, neither of these surgical therapies appears to have the capability of preventing the progress of hearing loss, the reality of bilateral disease justifies the continued use of SD or VNS by adequately trained surgeons.
Neuromas of the Skull Base
Authors: Roland Peter , Glasscock Michael E. , Bojrab Dennis I.
Published: July 2017

Ten skull‐base neuromas treated at the Otology Group P.C. are presented. Each case is reported in detail. The method by which preoperative diagnosis was made is reviewed. Specific attention is paid to distinguishing these tumors from chemodectomas. Presenting signs and symptoms are enumerated. Operative—especially postoperative—management is discussed in detail.
ABR Results in Patients with Posterior Fossa Tumors and Normal Pure‐Tone Hearing
Authors: Musiek Frank E. , Kibbe‐Michal Karen , Geurkink Nathan A. , Josey Anne Forrest , Glasscock Michael
Published: July 2017

Sixteen patients with confirmed mass lesions of the posterior fossa and normal hearing sensitivity for pure tones were studied. Patients' main symptoms, auditory brainstem response (ABR), and lesion size were analyzed. All patients manifested neurologic and/ or ofoneurologic symptoms or complained of hearing difficulty disproportionate to their pure‐tone findings. Interestingly, the patients in this select group were younger (mean = 34 years) than the typical patient with a posterior fossa tumor. ABR results were abnormal in 15 of the patients, although several indices—including absolute and interwave latencies, interaural latency difference, and wave presence/absence—were employed to achieve this sensitivity. Lesion size varied considerably and failed to correlate with ABR or pure‐tone results.
Aberrant Internal Carotid Artery: Classic Findings on Computed Tomography
Authors: McElveen John T. , Lo William W. M. , Gabri Tarek H. El , Nigri Peter
Published: July 2017

An aberrant internal carotid artery passing through the middle ear is rare and may be misdiagnosed. Surgical intervention can lead to massive bleeding, possible hemiparesis, or both, as demonstrated by the following cases. The purpose of this article is to alert the otolaryngologist and the radiologist to the condition and to subtle computed tomographic features of an aberrant internal carotid artery. Recognition of these features should spare both surgeon and patient the consequences of ill‐advised surgery.
Age‐Related Epithelial Migration on the Tympanic Membrane of the Mongolian Gerbil
Authors: Yi Zi‐Xiang , Shi Guo‐Shan , Huang Cheng‐Chun
Published: July 2017

Epithellal migration on the tympanic membrane of young and aged gerbils was studied; Sudan black B was used as a marker dye. The epithelial migration center was found at the region of umbo, manubrium, and the short process of the malleus. The epithellal migration rates of the gerbiis aged 3 to 6 months, 9 to 12 months, and 24 to 30 months were approximately 116, 113, and 86 μm per day, respectively. These findings suggest that the low epithelial migration rate on the tympanic membrane and external ear canal might play an important role on the high occurrence rate of external ear keratosis that results from accumulation of keratin debris in the aged gerbil ears.
Airway Changes in Relationship to Mandibular Posturing Mandibular Posturing
Authors: Johnson Loche M. , Arnett G. William , Tamborello James A. , Binder Andrew
Published: July 2017

Comparison of posterior airway space was evaluated radiographically on patients with sleep apnea in a mandibular reposed position vs. a mandibular protruded position. This was performed at the Santa Barbara Sleep Disorders Medical Center to simulate the effect of anterior orthotic appliances on these patients. The overall effect of forward mandibular posturing was a mean increase of posterior airway space (PAS) by approximately 56%, but wide variations were seen.
Sustainable Development in a U.S. Context: Analysis and Implications
Authors: Scattone Raymond P.
Published: July 2017

Since the introduction of the concept of “sustainable development” by the World Commission on Environment and Development in 1987, a number of programs and policies have been offered, enacted, and pursued that profess to those ideals. The extent to which they actually accord with them, however, is the subject of a growing body of debate and literature. Some critics have argued that despite its promise, the concept of sustainable development has merely been reformulated and used to continue promoting the goal of economic growth as the primary measure of progress. This viewpoint argues that sustainable development can never be more than sustainable economic growth under the current growth development paradigm. This article examines these arguments through an analysis of sustainable development as pursued in the United States. It focuses on the sustainable development component of the U.S. government's comprehensive approach to solving urban problems through the creation of empowerment zones.
Application of Moire Interferometry to the Analysis of Residual Stresses in Metal-Matrix Composites
Authors: Kang B. S.-J. , Lyons D. W. , Upadhyay P. C.
Published: July 2017

Moire interferometry has been used to observe the in-situ displacement fields in B/Al CFMMC specimen heated to different temperature levels. It is shown that the method has potential application in measuring the in-situ residual strains developed during processing of metal-matrix composites. Being a whole field method, it is illustrated to be capable of identifying the regions of high strain gradients which may be present due to inherent manufacturing defects or may develop during testing.
A Simple Procedure for the Evaluation of Fiber Size Effects on the Properties of Filament Wound Glass Fiber Composites
Authors: Järneteg Anette , Berglund Lars A.
Published: July 2017

A method to fabricate flat laminates by filament winding was developed. Different fracture tests were then performed on materials with two different fiber size treatments. Based on the results, simple test methods sensitive to fiber size effects are suggested. Moisture conditioning was necessary for size effects to show.
Design of Knitted Fabric Reinforced Composites
Authors: Wu Wei Liang , Hamada Hiroyuki , Kotaki Masaya , Maekawa Zenichiro
Published: July 2017

The authors focused on designing the mechanical properties of knitted fabrics as reinforcement and knitted structural composites, including warp knit and weft knit. Two parts are described in this paper: one is the design of the deformed state of knitted fabric as the reinforcement in knitted structural composites; the other is the concept of design of parameters which influence the mechanical properties of knitted structural composites.
Mixed-Mode Delamination Behavior of Carbon/Epoxy Composites
Authors: Zhao S. , Gadke M. , Prinz R.
Published: July 2017

The mixed-mode bending (MMB) test was employed in an investigation of delamination fracture behavior in static and fatigue loading for carbon/epoxy composites 1300/M10 and HTA/6376. As specimens were loaded at different ratios of alL for different mixed-mode ratios, both investigated composites exhibited brittle unstable or brittle stable behavior of crack growth. Mixed-mode delamination fracture toughness was determined at a IL = 0.5. Fracture surfaces of MMB specimens were examined using scanning electron microscopy to distinguish fracture features. Stable crack growth was observed over the entire range of crack lengths investigated in the cyclic tests. A consistent relation of crack growth per cycle to the cyclic strain energy release rate was obtained. The trend of reduction in crack growth rate data with diminution in cyclic strain energy release rate suggests the presence of a threshold strain energy release rate.
Cure Kinetics and Rheology Models for ICI Fiberite 977-3 and 977-2 Thermosetting Resins
Authors: Mantell S. C. , Ciriscioli P. R. , Almen G.
Published: July 2017

Heat of reaction, degree of cure, and viscosity of ICI Fiberite 977-2 and 977-3 thermosetting resins were measured. Degree of cure and viscosity for Fiberite 977-2 and 977-3 resins was determined under isothermal and adiabatic conditions. Expressions relating the degree of cure and viscosity to the time temperature profile during processing were found for each resin. Typically, these relationships are determined by conducting isothermal tests at several temperatures. A new approach which employs adiabatic data is proposed. A comparison of the isothermal and adiabatic based models is presented for both cure and viscosity data. The adiabatic based models require fewer test runs to develop the model parameters, yet accurately predict resin cure and viscosity characteristics.
Playing with the Anisotropy of the Matrix and Fiber for the Improvement of the Strength of Composites
Authors: Theocaris Pericles S.
Published: July 2017

The paper deals with the theory of the coupling of strongly anisotropic fibers along their axis with anisotropic matrices along either the fiber direction or the transverse plane to the direction of the fibers. It is shown that the first arrangement deteriorates, whereas the second improves significantly the mechanical behavior of the composites. Indeed, it is shown that anisotropy of the matrix, increasing its mechanical properties on the transverse isotropic plane of the composite, increases also the transverse-transverse Poisson's ratio, v23, whereas decreases the longitudinal shear modulus, G,2. This results in values of the eigenangle wx approaching the corresponding value Wic for the equivalent isotropic material and caused a deterioration of the strength and toughness of the composite, since the material now has the tendency to develop higher stress concentrations for equivalent loadings [1,2]. On the contrary, a strong anisotropic matrix along the direction of the fibers yields the inverse results for the respective moduli of the anisotropic composite.

Finally, the most important result is a perceptible decrease of the ratio E,1/2G,2 which yields values of the eigenangle wc tending to approach the critical value wi for the isotropic material. The decrease of wc indicates the improvement of the quality of the composite, since it develops relatively lower stress concentration factors, which approach their respective isotropic values [2]. Thus, the anisotropic composite material is approaching an equivalent state of quasi-isotropy and therefore improves its strength by reducing considerably the eventual anisotropic stress concentration factors of the respective structural elements [1]. Examples with T300/N5208 graphite-epoxy composites and Borsic-1100 aluminum metal-metal composites indicate clearly the beneficial effect of the anisotropy of their matrices.
Organ Donation and Transplantation in the Canadian Healthcare System
Authors: Colpitts David B , Freitag Christian L
Published: July 2017

Healthcare in Canada differs significantly from that in the United States. All Canadians have access to healthcare, and all 10 provinces of Canada have universal healthcare insurance plans that cover hospitalization and physician care. Each province administers its own healthcare system financed on an equal basis with the federal government, and each provincial resident is issued a health card that must be presented at hospitals or physicians' offices whenever medical care is requested. Canadian healthcare provides coverage for organ and tissue donation, transplantation, and cyclosporine for life for all transplant recipients. Canadian healthcare encompasses four basic principles: (1) universal coverage, (2) comprehensive coverage, (3) accessible care for all Canadians, and (4) portability of care. Canada has no national organization for organ donation and transplantation. The organ donation rates in Canada have averaged 14.1 donors per million population over the last 5 years, and are unchanged from previous years.
Biases among Hospital Personnel concerning Donation of Specific Organs and Tissues: Implications for the Donation Discussion and Education
Authors: Verble Margaret , Worth Judy
Published: July 2017

Previous research has established that healthcare professionals who are being trained to talk with families about donation have strong personal preferences for and aversions to the donation of specific organs and tissues. This article examines the possible reasons for such preferences and/or aversions. Among the population studied, strong personal preferences for donation of specific anatomical gifts predominantly were associated with pragmatic and moral or ethical justifications. Strong aversions were associated with pragmatic reasoning and mystical thinking, represented as ancient fears. The findings suggest the need for changes in the way the donation option is offered to families and the way hospital personnel are educated.
Survey of Sexual Concerns among Organ Transplant Recipients
Authors: Hart Laura K , Milde Frances K , Zehr Pamela S , Cox Diana M , Tarara Debra T , Fearing Margery O
Published: July 2017

This study identified frequency of sexual dysfunction, degree of satisfaction with sexual relationship, differences in sexual function, overall satisfaction and life quality, and desire for and receipt of instruction regarding sexual dysfunction in kidney, pancreas/kidney, and liver transplant recipients. Of the 768 adult recipients surveyed by mailed questionnaire, 39% responded. Intimate relationships were reported by 69.9%; 66.7% indicated satisfaction with their relationship. Twenty-six percent were not sexually active. Transplant groups did not differ significantly regarding satisfaction, sexual function, or quality of life. Satisfaction groups differed significantly regarding intimacy and expected future life and health quality. Frequency of intercourse, desire, orgasm, erection dysfunctions, and the acceptance of partners' advances related to relationship satisfaction. Sixty-seven percent received no instruction concerning sexuality or fertility. Education efforts could validate and support sexual identity among this patient population.
Correspondence and Personal Contact between Donor Families and Organ Recipients: One OPO's Procedure and Experience
Authors: Vajentic AnnaKay
Published: July 2017

This article discusses one organ procurement organization's procedure for facilitating correspondence between donor families and recipients while respecting the needs and rights of all involved. From 1992 to 1995, a total of 542 donor family and recipient correspondences were facilitated. Recipients wrote more than 80% of the letters, with the number of donor family correspondence increasing each year. Trends are discussed including the percentage of correspondence initiated by donor families and recipients, reasons for correspondence not being forwarded by the organ procurement organization, the time frame in which correspondence occurred, and the number of families who requested personal contact.
Perceptual and Behavioral Manifestations of the Chronic Illness and Recovery Models among Clinical Transplant Coordinators
Authors: Cetingok Muammer , Hathaway Donna , Reed Laura
Published: July 2017

This descriptive, qualitative study examines manifestations of the Chronic Illness and Recovery models among clinical transplant coordinators. Data collected through focused group interviews revealed that the Chronic Illness model fosters patient dependency, education about the illness itself, a perception that transplantation does not change the chronic nature of illness, a view of patients as socioeconomically disadvantaged and dependent on the transplant center, and the use of reactive approaches to care. In contrast, the Recovery model encourages patient independence, limits coordinators' protective feelings toward patients, provides education for life tasks, perceives patients as socioeconomically advantaged people capable of managing their own lives, and conducts patient care in a proactive manner.
Balloon Atrial Septostomy Increases Cardiac Index and May Reduce Mortality among Pulmonary Hypertension Patients Awaiting Lung Transplantation
Authors: Hayden Ann M
Published: July 2017

The prognosis for patients with pulmonary hypertension is extremely poor. Predictors of poor prognosis among these patients include a cardiac index less than 2.8 L/m/m2, a mean pulmonary artery pressure higher than 50 mm Hg, a mean right atrial pressure more than 10 mm Hg, and PaO2 less than 70 mm Hg. Balloon atrial septostomy was performed as a palliative procedure in six patients with pulmonary hypertension to limit further deterioration while they awaited lung transplantation. The goal of balloon atrial septostomy was to increase cardiac output while limiting the reduction in systemic oxygen saturation to less than 10% of baseline. This procedure may prove to be a valuable adjunct to reduce morbidity and mortality from right ventricular failure for pulmonary hypertension candidates awaiting lung transplantation.
A Description of General Health Risks in Adult Liver Transplant Recipients
Authors: Smith Susan L , Wittman Marianne
Published: July 2017

The focus of posttransplant care and clinical research has been on the management of rejection and short-term side effects associated with immunosuppressive therapy. Long-term side effects have only recently been recognized as potential health problems in liver transplant recipients. The aim of this pilot study was to determine the feasibility of using the Healthier People Version 4.0 Health Risk Appraisal as a tool for identifying existing and potential risk factors for premature disease and death among asymptomatic liver transplant recipients and to describe health risks in adult liver transplant recipients. The sample consisted of 50 adult first-time liver transplant recipients. It was found that this tool highlights health risks affecting life expectancy and pinpoints risks that an individual can control. It also provides practitioners with information necessary to design appropriate prevention and health promotion strategies to assure better health and quality of life for patients following liver transplantation.
The Influence of Psychosocial Factors on Heart Transplantation Decisions and Outcomes
Authors: Geller Stacie E , Connolly Terry
Published: July 2017

In January 1990, a well-established heart transplant program added a psychosocial evaluation procedure to its medical evaluation of potential transplant recipients. To determine the predictive value of psychosocial evaluation for decisions to list patients for a transplant and for ultimate clinical outcomes, we reviewed records of 191 patients who underwent psychosocial evaluation in the subsequent 3 years. Informal prescreening for obvious psychopathology and other disqualifiers almost certainly restricted the ranges of psychosocial factors observed in the sample. Of 120 patients listed. 61 actually received transplants. Psychosocial factors were little used in deciding whether to list the patients and were not predictive of recipients' medical outcome or compliance, but were moderately predictive of complication rates and difficulty of managing patients after transplantation. Although psychosocial evaluation of prescreened potential transplant recipients has little value in predicting medical outcome, it may be useful for planning and scheduling care after transplantation.
Discard Rates and Transplant Outcomes in Organs Recovered from Older Donors
Authors: Coleman-Musser Lori , Nelson Kristine , Durand Roger
Published: July 2017

The number of donors aged 60 years and over has increased. This study examined discard rates and transplant outcomes in organs recovered from older donors. Data were obtained using a standard tool for donors aged 60 years and older during 1993 and 1994 and included demographics, medical history, use of vasopressors, renal/liver function studies, organ disposition, biopsy findings, and recipient organ function. Of 58 kidneys recovered, 24 were transplanted, 26 were used for research, and 8 were discarded. Of 14 livers recovered, 11 were transplanted, 1 was used for research, and 2 were discarded. Sixty-three percent of kidney recipients had immediate function; 79% at 30 days. Nine liver recipients had immediate function; 6 at 30 days, with 1 graft lost. Results show that kidneys and livers can be transplanted from older donors with positive outcomes. Factors such as medical history, use of vasopressors, and organ function studies may help predict organ disposition and function.
Conversion from Sandimmune to Neoral in Organ Transplant Recipients
Authors: Bartucci Marilyn Rossman , Bayer Linda , Brooks Barbara K. , Chandler Linda , Himes Victoria , Meiergerd Diana , Newby Barbara , Satmary Nancy Turza , Shieck Victoria
Published: July 2017

The pharmacokinetic profiles of Sandimmune and Neoral vary considerably among transplant recipients. Cyclosporine exposure is far more consistent with Neoral than it is with Sandimmune. Because intrapatient variability of drug exposure has been demonstrated to be a risk factor for chronic rejection, this difference becomes important. Neoral also has a linear dose response and a stronger correlation between trough level and drug exposure. Dose linearity greatly facilitates accurate dose titration. Results of controlled studies in which kidney, liver, and heart transplant recipients were converted from Sandimmune to Neoral have shown that conversion on a 1:1 mg basis results in more predictable bioavailability and often in reductions in cyclosporine dose. Carefully monitored conversion has not been associated with increased side effects, and any side effects that do emerge can usually be managed by taking Neoral with food, changing the dose from every 12 hours to every 8 hours, or through dose reduction.
Attitudes of Black South Africans concerning Organ Donation
Authors: Ndlovu S. R. , Kobryn A. , Modiba M. C. M.
Published: July 2017

The availability of donor organs was analyzed following the placement of a transplant coordinator in Ga-Rankuwa Hospital's kidney transplant program. From February 1, 1992, to January 6, 1994, 44 brain-dead potential donors were identified. In 20 of those cases, relatives could not be reached to acquire consent for donation of cadaveric organs. In the remaining 24 cases, an intensive care resident together with a transplant coordinator obtained consent for 9 potential donors. Over the same period, 119 (80%) of living-related potential donors who had been approached stated that they were willing to donate a kidney. This outcome suggests that among blacks, altruism is a positive factor for acquiring consent for organ donation. Public education is required to correct ignorance, misconception, and cultural beliefs regarding cadaveric donation.
Heart Transplantation: A Review
Authors: Dressler Diane K.
Published: July 2017

This article explores current developments and continuing dilemmas in heart transplantation. Statistical trends such as the increased number of candidates and the increased waiting time are described. Recent developments in implantable ventricular assist device technology and the perioperative use of nitric oxide are also highlighted. In addition, advances in patient management from pretransplant care to long-term follow-up are presented, and alternatives to heart transplantation in current use and for the future are explored.
Azathioprine Monotherapy in HLA-Identical Live Donor Kidney Transplant Recipients
Authors: Bartucci Marilyn R. , Fleming-Brooks Sandra , Koshla Bernadette , Knauss Thomas C. , Hricik Donald E. , Schulak James A.
Published: July 2017

The high success rate of HLA-identical sibling transplants and our previous experience with steroid-free immunosuppressive regimens and cyclosporine withdrawal prompted us to evaluate the safety and efficacy of monotherapy with azathioprine in 12 HLA-identical kidney transplant recipients with a serum creatinine concentration less than 176.8 µmol/L, a 1-way stimulatory index less than 2.0 in a posttransplant mixed lymphocyte culture, and a demonstrated tolerance of a minimum azathioprine dose of 1.0 mg/kg per day without leukopenia. Eleven of 12 patients were successfully converted to azathioprine monotherapy without a significant change in serum creatinine concentration for as long as 76 months. Benefits of steroid and cyclosporine withdrawal included a significant reduction in mean systolic and diastolic blood pressure, number of blood pressure medications, total serum cholesterol, and glycohemoglobin in diabetic subjects. Our results suggest that azathioprine monotherapy is safe and effective in a select group of HLA-identical sibling transplants, but these benefits must be carefully balanced against an associated risk of precipitating acute allograft rejection.
Size Control of Poly(p -Oxybenzoyl) Whiskers by Addition of Crystals during Polymerization of p -Acetoxybenzoic Acid
Authors: Sarker Ashim Kumer , Kimura Kunio , Uchida Shouji , Yamashita Yuhiko
Published: July 2017

Control of the size, such as the length and width, of poly(p-oxybenzoyl) (POB) whiskers is a desirable technology. In this study, the addition of nuclei to the polymerization system is examined to control the size of the POB whisker. Polymerizations were carried out in liquid paraffin at 330 'C for 6 hr. The polymerization concentration was 1%. The crystals were prepared for 10 min, of which the tip angle is 800, are added as nuclei to the polymerization solution just before the crystallization is about to begin. The length does not increase at all by addition of the added crystals. The width increases and its distribution becomes significantly broader in all cases. The broadness of the width distribution reveals that nuclei are newly formed in the course of polymerization after the addition of crystals. It is difficult to inhibit the generation of new crystals by the control of the number of added crystals because the precipitation rate of the oligomers is much higher than the consumption rate of the oligomers by crystallization and therefore the excess oligomers which cannot participate in the crystal growth induce nucleation. It is concluded that the addition of the crystals as nuclei is not an available method to lengthen the POB whisker.
Siloxane-Containing Thermotropic Liquid Crystals Based on New Azomethine Dimesogens
Authors: Racles Carmen , Cozan Vasile
Published: July 2017

Two dimesogenic compounds with azomethine links and phenolic functionality were synthesized and used to prepare telechelic oligomers with various siloxane contents, by condensation reactions involving or, w-bis(chloromethyl)polysiloxanes of different molecular weights. The structures of the compounds obtained were confirmed by IR and 'H-NMR spectroscopy, and they were characterized by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The synthesized dimesogenic compounds and dimeric oligomers exhibited thermotropic liquid crystalline behaviour, evidenced by polarized light microscopy (PLM). The introduction of the siloxane moieties led to an important decrease of the melting temperature as compared with the starting phenols, accompanied by a serious broadening of the mesophase domain.
The Effect of the Conformational Rigidity on the Initial Decomposition Temperature of Some Heterocyclic Polyimides
Authors: Ronova Inga A. , Vasilyuk Andrey N. , Gaina C. , Gaina V.
Published: July 2017

The effect of the conformational rigidity on the initial decomposition temperature of some heterocyclic polyimides has been investigated. Calculations by the Monte Carlo method were used for conformational analysis of these polymers. It was shown that there is a linear dependence of the initial decomposition temperature on the conformational parameters of a set of the polyimides containing a 1, 4-dithiine or thiofene fragment and poly(ether-bismaleimide)s containing ester or parabanic rings. It was also shown that partial cyclization of the parabanic rings occurs in the polyimides containing a 1, 4-dithiine or thiofene fragment.
Crystallization Behavior of Copoly(ether ketone) Derived from 2, 6-Naphthalenedicarboxylic Acid Chloride and Isophthaloyl Chloride
Authors: Sakaguchi Yoshimitsu
Published: July 2017

Crystallization characteristics of a poly(ether ketone) derived from diphenyl ether and mixed diacid chlorides containing 2, 6-naphthalenedicarboxylic acid chloride (NDC) and isophthaloyl chloride (IPC) (75/25) was measured by DSC. This polymer showed a high glass transition temperature of 190 "C and a moderate melting temperature of 358 'C. The isothermal crystallization showed that a minimum crystallization half time and a maximum heat of crystallization appeared around 260 'C. The values of Avrami index (n) were 2.7-3.0 at the crystallization temperatures between 230 and 280 'C. This semicrystalline polymer offers the potential to be melt processable while exhibiting a relatively high glass transition temperature.