bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Rocking Bundle: A Mechanism for Ion-Coupled Solute Flux by Symmetrical Transporters
Authors: Forrest Lucy R. , Rudnick Gary
Published: December 2009

Crystal structures of the bacterial amino acid transporter LeuT have provided the basis for understanding the conformational changes associated with substrate translocation by a multitude of transport proteins with the same fold. Biochemical and modeling studies led to a “rocking bundle” mechanism for LeuT that was validated by subsequent transporter structures. These advances suggest how coupled solute transport might be defined by the internal symmetry of proteins containing inverted structural repeats.
Roles of Phospholipase C Isozymes in Organogenesis and Embryonic Development
Authors: Nakamura Yoshikazu , Fukami Kiyoko
Published: December 2009

Phosphoinositide metabolism is an important intracellular signaling system that regulates a variety of cellular functions. Phospholipase C (PLC) is a key enzyme in this system. Recent studies on genetically manipulated mice have clarified the functions of PLC in vivo. This review focuses on the roles of PLC in organogenesis and embryonic development.
Thermodiffractometry and crystal structures of the hexagonal-tungsten-bronze-related K3Al3F12⋅nH2O (n=2,1)
Authors: Le Bail A.
Published: December 2009

K3Al3F12⋅nH2O (n=2,1) are the successive products of the thermal decomposition of K(H3O)2AlF6. Both structures are orthorhombic, built up from disconnected hexagonal-tungsten-bronze (HTB)-related layers, with K+ cations and H2O molecules inserted between. For n=2, there are two disconnected layers along a presenting different octahedra tilting [a=13.5135(2) Å, b=7.0433(1) Å, c=12.2252(2) Å, V=1163.60(3) Å3, Z=4, space group Pnma], whereas for n=1, the stacking is reduced to only one HTB layer along c [a=7.0523(5) Å, b=12.1005(9) Å, c=6.7057(5) Å, V=572.24(7) Å3 (at 170 °C), Z=2, space group Pmmn] after the departure of one water molecule. The thermodiffractometry ends in the α-KAlF4 form.
Reference X-ray powder diffraction pattern of a high-pressure phase, CaCo2O4
Authors: Wong-Ng W. , Kaduk J. A. , Isobe M.
Published: December 2009

This paper reports a reference X-ray powder diffraction pattern for a high-pressure phase, CaCo2O4, which has been reported recently to have a large Seebeck coefficient. The structure of CaCo2O4 is orthorhombic with space group Pnma, a=8.789(2) Å, b=2.9006(7) Å, c=10.282(3) Å, V=262.43 Å3, and Dc=5.62 g/cm3. This phase crystallizes in the CaFe2O4-type structure and consists of an edge- and corner-shared CoO6 octahedral network. The reference pattern has been submitted to the Powder Diffraction File (PDF).
Debye temperature of 4H-SiC determined by X-ray powder diffraction
Authors: Peng T. H. , Lou Y. F. , Jin S. F. , Wang W. Y. , Wang W. J. , Wang G. , Chen X. L.
Published: December 2009

Crystal structure of 4H-SiC was refined from room-temperature X-ray powder diffraction data using the Rietveld refinement method. The refined lattice constants were determined to bea=b=3.079 93(0) Å,c=10.082 22(2) Å, and the refined overall temperature factorB=0.383(3) Å2. Using the Debye approximation, the Debye temperature was successfully determined to be 1194.8 K.
Intra-Abdominal Bleeding during Pregnancy, Preterm Delivery, and Placental Polyp in a Long-Term Survivor of Neuroblastoma: A Case Report
Authors: Watanabe Noriyoshi , Tsutsui Junna , Kakiuchi Satsuki , Jwa Seung Chik , Takahashi Hironori , Kato Naomi , Ozawa Nobuaki , Sago Haruhiko , Kitagawa Michihiro
Published: December 2009

Background. There are few reports of pregnancies in long-term survivors of pelvic neuroblastoma.Case. A 30-year-old Japanese woman with a history of pelvic neuroblastoma in her childhood, which was treated with surgical resection, chemotherapy, and radiation. Her pregnancy continued with conservative management, but she delivered a 510 g female infant at 23 weeks of gestation due to sudden onset of labor pain. She also had a placental polyp and developed massive postpartum bleeding.Conclusion. Cancer treatment, especially radiation therapy, in childhood may cause adverse outcomes during pregnancy in long-term survivors of neuroblastoma.
Preliminary Evaluation of a Nuclear Scenario Involving Innovative Gas Cooled Reactors
Authors: Vezzoni Barbara , Cerullo Nicola , Forasassi Giuseppe , Fridman Emil , Lomonaco Guglielmo , Romanello Vincenzo , Shwageraus Eugene
Published: December 2009

In order to guarantee a sustainable supply of future energy demand
without compromising the environment, some actions for a
substantial reduction of CO2 emissions are nowadays deeply analysed. One of them is
the improvement of the nuclear energy use. In this framework,
innovative gas‐cooled reactors (both thermal and fast) seem to be
very attractive from the electricity production point of view and
for the potential industrial use along the high temperature
processes (e.g., H2 production by steam reforming or I‐S process). This
work focuses on a preliminary (and conservative) evaluation of
possible advantages that a symbiotic cycle (EPR‐PBMR‐GCFR) could
entail, with special regard to the reduction of the HLW inventory
and the optimization of the exploitation of the fuel resources.
The comparison between the symbiotic cycle chosen and the
reference one (once‐through scenario, i.e., EPR‐SNF directly
disposed) shows a reduction of the time needed to reach a fixed
reference level from
∼170000 years to
∼1550 years
(comparable with typical human times and for this reason more
acceptable by the public opinion). In addition, this cycle enables
to have a more efficient use of resources involved: the total
electric energy produced becomes equal to
∼630 TWh/year
(instead of only
∼530 TWh/year
using only EPR) without consuming additional raw materials.
Bariatric Revisionary Surgery for Failed or Complicated Vertical Banded Gastroplasty (VBG): Comparison of VBG Reoperation (re-VBG) versus Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass-on-VBG (RYGB-on-VBG)
Authors: Cariani Stefano , Agostinelli Laura , Leuratti Luca , Giorgini Eleonora , Biondi Pietro , Amenta Enrico
Published: December 2009

Background. Revision of failed bariatric procedures is a significant challenge for bariatric surgeons, because of the increasing number of recurring morbid obesity or complications, especially in patients with a previous Vertical Banded Gastroplasty (VBG).Methods. Since November 1998, 109 patients with failed or complicated VBG were followed in a retrospective study. 49 patients underwent re-VBG and, since 2004, 60 underwent Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass-on-Vertical Banded Gastroplasty (RYGB-on-VBG).Results. At 3 years follow-up, mean BMI decreased from 37.4 to 31.2  in the first group, and from 35.0 to 28.4  in the second. Early complications were 7 (14.3%) in the first group and 4 (6.5%) in the second; late complications were 33 (59.1%) and 11 (18.3%), respectively.Conclusion. Although both operations seem to be effective as bariatric revision procedures in terms of BMI, the mid-term outcomes of RYGB-on-VBG demonstrate the lowest rate of complications and better quality of life.
Association of Cyclooxygenase-1-Dependent and -Independent Platelet Function Assays With Adverse Clinical Outcomes in Aspirin-Treated Patients Presenting for Cardiac Catheterization
Authors: Frelinger Andrew L. , Li YouFu , Linden Matthew D. , Barnard Marc R. , Fox Marsha L. , Christie Douglas J. , Furman Mark I. , Michelson Alan D.
Published: December 2009

Background—

Poor clinical outcome in aspirin-treated patients has been termed
aspirin resistance
and may result from inadequate inhibition of platelet cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) by aspirin. The objectives of this study were to determine prospectively whether COX-1-dependent and other platelet function assays correlate with clinical outcomes in aspirin-treated patients.

Methods and Results—

Blood was collected before percutaneous coronary intervention from 700 consecutive aspirin-treated (81 or 325 mg for ≥3 days) patients. Platelet function was tested by (1) serum thromboxane B
2
; (2) arachidonic acid-stimulated platelet surface P-selectin and activated glycoprotein IIb/IIIa and leukocyte-platelet aggregates; and (3) platelet function analyzer (PFA)-100 collagen-epinephrine and collagen-ADP closure time (CT). Adverse clinical outcomes of all-cause death, cardiovascular death, and major adverse cardiovascular events (cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, hospitalization for revascularization, or acute coronary syndrome) were assessed by telephone interview and/or medical record review. Clinical outcomes information was obtained at 24.8±0.3 months after platelet function testing. By univariate analysis, COX-1-dependent assays, including serum thromboxane B
2
level, were not associated with adverse clinical outcomes, whereas the COX-1-independent assay, PFA-100 collagen-ADP CT <65 seconds, was associated with major adverse cardiovascular events (
P
=0.0149). After adjustment for covariables (including sex, aspirin dose, Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction risk score, clopidogrel use), both serum thromboxane B
2
>3.1 ng/mL and PFA-100 collagen-ADP CT <65 seconds were associated with major adverse cardiovascular events. In contrast, indirect measures of platelet COX-1 (arachidonic acid-stimulated platelet markers, shortened PFA-100 collagen-epinephrine CT) were not significantly associated with adverse clinical outcomes even after adjustment for covariables.

Conclusions—

In this prospective study of 700 aspirin-treated patients presenting for angiographic evaluation of coronary artery disease, residual platelet COX-1 function measured by serum thromboxane B
2
and COX-1-independent platelet function measured by PFA-100 collagen-ADP CT, but not indirect COX-1-dependent assays (arachidonic acid-stimulated platelet markers, shortened PFA-100 collagen-epinephrine CT), correlate with subsequent major adverse cardiovascular events. This study suggests that multiple mechanisms, including but not confined to inadequate inhibition of COX-1, are responsible for poor clinical outcomes in aspirin-treated patients, and therefore the term
aspirin resistance
is inappropriate.
Lifetime Vigorous But Not Light-To-Moderate Habitual Physical Activity Impacts Favorably on Carotid Stiffness in Young Adults
Authors: van de Laar Roel J. , Ferreira Isabel , van Mechelen Willem , Prins Martin H. , Twisk Jos W. , Stehouwer Coen D.
Published: December 2009

Higher levels of habitual physical activity favorably impact on arterial stiffness. It is not clear, however, whether lifetime habitual physical activities of different intensities carry the same protective effect and to what extent any such effect is mediated by other biological cardiovascular risk factors. We, therefore, examined longitudinal data on habitual physical activity and cardiovascular risk factors (8 repeated measures between the ages of 13 and 36 years) in 373 subjects in whom stiffness estimates of the carotid artery were assessed at age 36 years using noninvasive ultrasonography. The time spent in habitual physical activities (in minutes per week) throughout the longitudinal period was compared between subjects across tertiles of the following stiffness estimates: β-stiffness index, distensibility and compliance coefficients, and the Young’s elastic modulus. After adjustments for sex, body height, and other lifestyle variables, subjects in the highest tertile of the β-stiffness index (ie, with stiffer arteries) had spent, on average, throughout the longitudinal period, less time in vigorous (−26.5 [95% CI: −45.9 to −7.1]) but less so in light-to-moderate habitual physical activities (−11.2 [95% CI: −53.5 to 31.1]) as compared with subjects in the lowest tertile. The difference in time spent in vigorous activities was greatly attenuated when further adjusted for blood lipids, cardiorespiratory fitness, fat distribution, resting heart rate, and mean arterial pressure (to −11.2 [95% CI: −29.4 to 7.0]). Similar results were found for the other stiffness estimates. Promoting vigorous intensity physical activities among the healthy young may, therefore, prevent arterial stiffness and related cardiovascular sequelae later in life, partly through its favorable impact on other biological cardiovascular risk factors.
Angiotensin-(1-7) Prevents Cardiomyocyte Pathological Remodeling Through a Nitric Oxide/Guanosine 3′,5′-Cyclic Monophosphate–Dependent Pathway
Authors: Gomes Enéas R.M. , Lara Aline A. , Almeida Pedro W.M. , Guimarães Diogo , Resende Rodrigo R. , Campagnole-Santos Maria J. , Bader Michael , Santos Robson A.S. , Guatimosim Silvia
Published: December 2009

The renin-angiotensin (Ang) system plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease, with Ang II being the major effector of this system. Multiple lines of evidence have shown that Ang-(1-7) exerts cardioprotective effects in the heart by counterregulating Ang II actions. The questions that remain are how and where Ang-(1-7) exerts its effects. By using a combination of molecular biology, confocal microscopy, and a transgenic rat model with increased levels of circulating Ang-(1-7) (TGR[A1-7]3292), we evaluated the signaling pathways involved in Ang-(1-7) cardioprotection against Ang II–induced pathological remodeling in ventricular cardiomyocytes. Rats were infused with Ang II for 2 weeks. We found that ventricular myocytes from TGR(A1-7)3292 rats are protected from Ang II pathological remodeling characterized by Ca
2+
signaling dysfunction, hypertrophic fetal gene expression, glycogen synthase kinase 3β inactivation, and nuclear factor of activated T-cells nuclear accumulation. Moreover, cardiomyocytes from TGR(A1-7)3292 rats infused with Ang II presented increased expression levels of neuronal NO synthase. To provide a signaling pathway involved in the beneficial effects of Ang-(1-7), we treated neonatal cardiomyocytes with Ang-(1-7) and Ang II for 36 hours. Treatment of cardiomyocytes with Ang-(1-7) prevented Ang II–induced hypertrophy by modulating calcineurin/nuclear factor of activated T-cell signaling cascade. Importantly, antihypertrophic effects of Ang-(1-7) on Ang II–treated cardiomyocytes were prevented by
N
G
-nitro-
l
-arginine methyl ester and 1H-1,2,4oxadiazolo4,2-aquinoxalin-1-one, suggesting that these effects are mediated by NO/cGMP. Taken together, these data reveal a key role for NO/cGMP as a mediator of Ang-(1-7) beneficial effects in cardiac cells.
Angiotensin II Type 1 and Type 2 Receptors Regulate Basal Skeletal Muscle Microvascular Volume and Glucose Use
Authors: Chai Weidong , Wang Wenhui , Liu Jia , Barrett Eugene J. , Carey Robert M. , Cao Wenhong , Liu Zhenqi
Published: December 2009

Angiotensin II causes vasoconstriction via the type 1 receptor (AT
1
R) and vasodilatation through the type 2 receptor (AT
2
R). Both are expressed in muscle microvasculature, where substrate exchanges occur. Whether they modulate basal muscle microvascular perfusion and substrate metabolism is not known. We measured microvascular blood volume (MBV), a measure of microvascular surface area and perfusion, in rats during systemic infusion of angiotensin II at either 1 or 100 ng/kg per minute. Each caused a significant increase in muscle MBV. Likewise, administration of the AT
1
R blocker losartan increased muscle MBV by >3-fold (
P
<0.001). Hindleg glucose extraction and muscle interstitial oxygen saturation simultaneously increased by 2- to 3-fold. By contrast, infusing AT
2
R antagonist PD123319 significantly decreased muscle MBV by ≥80% (
P
<0.001). This was associated with a significant decrease in hindleg glucose extraction and muscle oxygen saturation. AT
2
R antagonism and inhibition of NO synthase each blocked the losartan-induced increase in muscle MBV and glucose uptake. In conclusion, angiotensin II acts on both AT
1
R and AT
2
R to regulate basal muscle microvascular perfusion. Basal AT
1
R tone restricts muscle MBV and glucose extraction, whereas basal AT
2
R activity increases muscle MBV and glucose uptake. Pharmacological manipulation of the balance of AT
1
R and AT
2
R activity affords the potential to improve glucose metabolism.
Disability and Sexuality: Knowledge, Attitudes, and Level of Comfort Among Certified Rehabilitation Counselors
Authors: Kazukauskas Kelly A. , Lam Chow S.
Published: December 2009

This study investigated certified rehabilitation counselors’ (CRCs) attitudes, knowledge, and comfort in addressing disability and sexuality issues. One hundred ninety-nine CRCs completed a modified version of the Knowledge, Comfort, Approach and Attitudes toward Sexuality Scale to determine the effect of knowledge and attitudes on level of comfort in addressing sexuality issues with consumers. Counseling and education-type comfort and comfort with sexual solicitations or discovering consumers in sexual situations (approach) were assessed separately. Participants demonstrated low discomfort on the education and counseling-related comfort scale ( M = 1.84, SD = .82) and medium discomfort on the approach-related comfort scale ( M = 2.78, SD = .96), positive attitudes ( M = 1.53, SD = .74), and average knowledge ( M = 2.40, SD = .842). Results of regression analyses indicated that 17% ( R 2 = .172) of the variance on comfort and 19% ( R2 = .189) of the variance on approach could be accounted for by CRCs’ knowledge and attitude, indicating that these were contributing to CRC comfort levels in addressing sexuality with consumers. Implications include the need for continued research concerning factors affecting CRC comfort in addressing sexuality-related issues with consumers, and the need for increased CRC education and training in sexuality and disability.
The Context of Diversity: A Study of Six Chicago Neighbourhoods
Authors: Talen Emily
Published: December 2009

Depending on how diversity is defined, every city has at least some neighbourhoods that are diverse, despite the enduring reality that American cities tend to be highly segregated. This paper investigates six socially diverse neighbourhoods in Chicago from the perspective of the residents who live there. The specific focus is on the interaction between residents and physical form, spatial pattern, and the location and function of civic institutions. Six neighbourhoods in Cook County were selected that are simultaneously diverse along four dimensions: age, income, family type and race/ ethnicity. From February to June 2006, tape-recorded interviews were conducted of 85 residents in the six neighbourhoods identified as being highly diverse on multiple dimensions. Residents were surveyed about their familiarity with, and opinions about, social diversity, in addition to questions designed to probe their feelings about the importance of place and neighbourhood context.
Reconfiguring Private and Public: State, Capital and New Housing Developments in Berlin and Budapest
Authors: Bodnar Judit , Molnar Virag
Published: December 2009

This article explores how new planned housing developments have contributed to the restructuring of public and private space in contemporary Berlin and Budapest, two cities whose globalisation was complicated by major political and economic transformation during the past two decades. It draws on and extends research on gated communities to develop a relational approach that more adequately captures international variations of this housing form and the interplay of public and private space, actors and strategies, a new configuration of which defines the latest wave of these developments. Through this perspective, it is demonstrated how and why planned housing developments in Berlin and Budapest are different from the cases most frequently discussed in the gated community literature, and also from each other. The comparative case study highlights how housing offers an excellent research site to grasp the reconfiguration of the state and the complexity of private and public at the local level.
Social Relations, Property and ‘Peripheral’ Informal Settlement: The Case of Ampliación San Marcos, Mexico City
Authors: Wigle Jill
Published: December 2009

This article explores the complexities of informal urbanisation at the metropolitan periphery of Mexico City through a case study of Ampliación San Marcos, a former agricultural area on the city’s south-eastern periphery. While the physical annexation of small towns and their environs is a common feature of Mexico City’s growth, the settlement of Ampliación San Marcos is more accurately described as a two-pronged process involving the extension of a nearby pre-Hispanic town and the expansion of Mexico City itself. The case study shows that the rural periphery of Mexico City is no tabula rasa upon which urban growth simply ‘takes place’, rather, settlement processes are influenced by longstanding in situ social relations and practices related to property. The paper highlights the importance of considering the relationships among social relations, property and informal settlement for understanding the complexity of metropolitan growth and change in large cities such as Mexico City.
Happy People in Mixed-up Places: The Association between the Degree and Type of Local Socioeconomic Mix and Expressions of Neighbourhood Satisfaction
Authors: Baum Scott , Arthurson Kathryn , Rickson Kara
Published: December 2009

The potential impacts that a range of social, economic, demographic and structural factors have on an individual’s level of perceived satisfaction with their neighbourhood continue to be an important focus of research interest. This paper concentrates on a specific feature of the neighbourhood satisfaction literature by considering the impact of local neighbourhood socioeconomic mix on satisfaction. It suggests that, if neighbourhood satisfaction is associated with strong and sustainable communities, then understanding the drivers of neighbourhood satisfaction remains an important part of the empirical investigation. Using a combination of survey data and aggregate census data, the paper considers how, net of other factors, the socioeconomic mix of the local neighbourhood impacts on satisfaction. It finds that the socioeconomic mix characteristics of the neighbourhood do matter in understanding neighbourhood satisfaction and suggests that this has important implications for polices aiming at strengthening and sustaining local communities.
Structural Adjustment Intensity, Vulnerability and Poverty in Africa
Authors: Onyeiwu Steve , Iorgulescu Raluca , Polimeni John M.
Published: December 2009

Nigeria has implemented structural adjustment policies for the past twenty years, with the intensity of reforms increasing each year. However, there is an ongoing debate as to whether strong adjustment is more effective than weak reforms in alleviating poverty in African economies. In this article, we use primary socio-economic data collected from two surveys, one conducted in 2001 and the other in 2007, of residents in the village of Umulwe in Southeastern Nigeria, to examine whether the intensity of structural adjustment policies has led to poverty reduction in the village. Specifically, we use changes in the poverty headcount index and the poverty gap index, as well as non-income measures to analyze the dynamics of poverty in the village. A cross-sectional OLS regression on the survey data does not indicate a direct link between structural adjustment and the poverty reduction observed in the village over time. By linking structural adjustment to changes in household behaviour, the article provides a micro-foundation for the analysis of the impact of structural adjustment on poverty.
Foreign Aid and the Human Development Indicators in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Asiama Johnson P. , Quartey Peter
Published: December 2009

The recent literature on aid effectiveness suggests the presence of non-linear effects as well as other country-specific effects in the aid-growth relationship, which may explain the different findings in the empirical literature. We argue that even after correcting for the above, the focus must be on welfare effects of aid in recipient countries since other contemporaneous effects might be involved, that may not be captured in a traditional analysis of the aid-growth relationship. We present some new and exclusive evidence on the effect of aid on indicators of welfare in Sub-Saharan Africa, a region that is said to be the least probable to achieve the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). Our findings suggest that aggregate bilateral aid does not show a significant effect on the human development indicators and other welfare variables. However, disaggregated aid in the form of sector specific and programme aid do show a significant effect on the HDIs. The article proposes that aid is scaled up but targeted at areas where these are most effective. Moreover, other innovative ways of aid delivery apart from the traditional project and programme assistance need to be considered.
Microfinance and Rural Household Development
Authors: Kotir Julius H. , Obeng-Odoom Franklin
Published: December 2009

Though at the theoretical level, micro-credit is said to play a significant role in poverty reduction, empirical work on the role of micro-credit in poverty reduction is mixed with some studies indicating high levels of employment and income generation and others suggesting a worsening of poverty with micro-credit. Does micro-credit really get to the poor? Does it enhance or impede their productivity? Based on a study of 139 households in one rural area in the Upper West Region of Ghana, we find that: (a) Beneficiaries of micro-credit divert a significant portion of such loans into household consumption – albeit with moderate impact on house-hold productivity and welfare and (b) Micro-credit has modest impact on rural community development.
Tribological Performance of PTFE Bronze Filled Composites under Wide Range of Application Conditions
Authors: Unal H. , Kurtulus E. , Mimaroglu A. , Aydin M.
Published: December 2009

In this study, the friction and wear behavior of pure poly-tetra-fluoro-ethylene (PTFE) and bronze filled PTFE polymer composites at applied load values of 5, 10, 20, 30, 50, 100, 150, and 200N and sliding speed values of 0.32, 0.64, 0.96, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 m/s working conditions were examined. Friction and wear experiments were run at ambient conditions using a pin-on-disc test rig. The results for pure PTFE and bronze filled PTFE composites showed that under light working condition, the friction coefficient decreases with the increase in applied load values, while under severe conditions the materials showed less sensitivity to the change in applied load values. Furthermore, among tested materials the lowest wear rate is for bronze filled PTFE composite. The specific wear rate for pure PTFE and 60% bronze filled PTFE are in the order of 10-13 and 10- 15 m2/N, respectively. For the range of applied load and sliding speeds used in this investigation, the friction coefficient and wear rate showed very little sensitivity to the change in sliding test speed and large sensitivity to the change in applied load values. Finally, the wear mechanism of PTFE and PTFE composites include adhesive and deformation mechanisms.
Effect of Fiber Treatment on Mechanical Properties of Kenaf Fiber-Ecoflex Composites
Authors: Nor Azowa Ibrahim  , Kamarul Arifin Hadithon  , Abdan Khalina
Published: December 2009

The composite material based on whole stem kenaf fiber (WSK) and Ecoflex (biodegradable thermoplastic) were prepared by melt blending technique and characterized. The composites were prepared using different fiber loadings and the fiber was treated with various concentrations of NaOH solution by soaking for 3 h. The compounding of composite were carried out at different fiber loadings (10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%) using Brabender internal mixer at 130°C for 10 min. The composites were then pressed using compression molding to produce biodegradable kenaf/Ecoflex sheets. The effects of kenaf fiber loading and NaOH treatment of WSK fiber surface on mechanical properties was examined. The results showed that 40% fiber loading improved the tensile strength properties and WSK fiber treated with 4% NaOH was found to enhance tensile and flexural properties compared with untreated fiber. The FTIR characterization showed that alkali treatment removes hemicellulose and lignin from WSK kenaf fiber surface.
Optimization of Zeolite as Filler in Polypropylene Composite
Authors: Zaharri N. , Othman N.
Published: December 2009

This article reports on optimization of natural zeolite as filler in polypropylene composite. Effects of zeolite loading and surface treatment were performed in this work. Prior to mixing process, zeolite was ground by ring mill into a powder form. The composites were prepared using Thermo Haake Polydrive internal mixer and then compression molded according to standard test specimen. Tensile and impact tests were performed to characterize the mechanical properties of untreated and treated composites. The obtained experimental values of Young’s modulus were then related to the theoretical predictions using a Halpin—Tsai equation. The theoretical prediction resulted in greater values of tensile modulus compared to the experimental values. A morphological study was done on the tensile fractured surface using a scanning electron microscopy. A Fourier transform infrared spectra analysis was performed on the composites to study the interaction between the polypropylene and functional group of stearic acid and vinyl silane. It was found that the tensile strength, elongation at break, and impact strength decreased but the Young’s modulus increased with increasing zeolite content. The addition of coupling agents was proved to enhance the mechanical properties of zeolite/polypropylene composite. However, stearic acid has little effect in improving the composite mechanical properties in comparison with vinyl silane.
Studies on Equivalent Viscosity of Particle-Reinforced Flexible Mold Materials Used in Soft Tooling Process
Authors: Arup Kumar Nandi  , Vesterinen Arja , Cingi Celai , Seppala Jukka , Orkas Juhani
Published: December 2009

To reduce the cooling time in soft tooling process, one of the possible solutions is the use of composite mold materials, but that may affect melt mold flow properties. Therefore, a study on equivalent viscosity of melt mold material, which primarily influences the flow ability is essential. In this work, we have carried out an experimental study on equivalent viscosity of flexible mold materials (such as polyurethane and silicone rubber, which are of particular type) reinforced with highly thermal conductive filler particles, namely, aluminum and graphite powder. It has been observed that in addition to an increase of equivalent viscosity, different curing behaviors were noticed in mold materials reinforced with different fillers. By analyzing the performances of various equivalent viscosity models reported in literature, it has been observed that for higher particle size, the existing models deviate much from the experimental results. We have proposed an extension of the generalized model of Arefinia and Shojaei by including a factor that depends on particle size. It is found that the extension model provides better explanations compared to other models to the experimental results, especially for suspensions of flexible mold materials with higher particle sizes. Finally, a predictive approach is suggested for the equivalent viscosity of reinforced flexible mold materials, which may be useful to decide the amount of typical filler particles to be considered for mixing with a flexible mold material.
Coming of Age Online: The Developmental Underpinnings of Girls’ Blogs
Authors: Davis Katie
Published: December 2009

Adolescent girls have emerged as the largest demographic of bloggers in the United States. In this study, the author interviewed 20 girls, aged 17 to 21, who had been blogging for 3 or more years. Consistent with previous studies involving youths’ online activities, the girls discussed their use of blogging for self-expression and peer interaction. They also observed that the content and style of their blog writing has changed considerably over the years. Their observations reflect key changes in self-development and peer relationships that typically occur during the transition from adolescence to emerging adulthood. Drawing on these findings, the author presents a conceptual framework that illustrates how developmental theory can illuminate our understanding of adolescents’ and emerging adults’ online behaviors.
Is Jumping off the Roof Always a Bad Idea? A Rejoinder on Risk Taking and the Adolescent Brain
Authors: Males Mike A.
Published: December 2009

Three respondents provide cogent commentary on the author’s first article, “Does the Adolescent Brain Make Risk Taking Inevitable? A Skeptical Appraisal.” Two respondent papers argue that the author mischaracterized valid and useful developmental and biological arguments affirming adolescents’ singular risk propensities; the third response raises innovative biological perspectives suggesting unique adolescent brain abilities that strongly challenge current developmental discourse. In his rejoinder to the three respondents, the author presents new statistical and biological data to argue that current adolescent-risk theories will not survive rigorous, age-comparative socioeconomic analyses, objective inventories of cognitive capacities across the life span, and long overdue concession that grown-up outcomes show “risk taking” is not just (or even mainly) an adolescent event.
Identity and Achievement: A Depth Psychology Approach to Student Development
Authors: Floyd Nubra Elaine
Published: December 2009

This case study report describes a series of workshops exploring social and developmental challenges confronted by Black adolescents in the schooling process. Analysis of workshop session notes led to a community-based educational initiative aimed at promoting African heritage identity as an incentive to school achievement. Wilfred R. Bion’s theory of small group behavior is used to shed light on the group process of workshop sessions and postworkshop events and activities. Case findings are discussed in terms of Janet Helms’s theory of racial identity development and Perry, Steele, and Hillyard’s work on promoting achievement for African American students. It is concluded that defining the culturally specific conditions for personal growth and combining professional concern with family support can be crucial to promoting developmental success for Black and African heritage youth.
Numerical Analyses of Stress-triaxiality-dependent Inelastic Deformation Behavior of Aluminum Alloys
Authors: Brünig Michael , Albrecht Daniel , Gerke Steffen
Published: December 2009

The article deals with the effect of stress triaxiality on the inelastic deformation behavior of aluminum alloys. The proposed continuum model takes into account a stress-triaxiality-dependent yield condition as well as a damage criterion with different branches corresponding to various damage modes depending on the stress triaxiality and the Lode parameter. Numerical simulations of experiments with smooth and pre-notched tension and shear specimens are presented covering a wide range of stress triaxialities. Numerical results show good agreement with available experimental data. The analyses allow verification of the macroscopic model and identification of material parameters.
Making Space for the “Nuances of Truth”: Communication and Uncertainty at an Environmental Journalists’ Workshop
Authors: Schneider Jen
Published: December 2009

In 2008, the Society of Environmental Journalists listed nearly 50 science or science immersion workshops for environmental journalists. Yet relatively little is known about the content of these workshops and their impact on participants. This ethnographic study, conducted at a science immersion workshop for environmental journalists, aims to fill this void in our knowledge. Relying on participant observation and depth interviews, the study suggests that such workshops are useful for participating journalists: Reporters feel they leave the workshop better understanding the scientific method and scientific uncertainty. But the findings also reveal that “metacommunication”—communication about communication—is equally as important as science immersion activities. Workshop scientists should be involved in metacommunication activities not just as scientific experts advising journalists on science but as fellow professionals seeking to improve communication between the two groups.
Excessive Interviews: Listening to Maternal Subjectivity
Authors: Willink Kate
Published: December 2009

In this article, the author revisits an interview with Ava Montalvo—a mother of two living in Albuquerque, New Mexico— which initially confounded her interpretive resources. This reflexive, performative article examines the role of excess as an analytical lens through which to understand maternal subjectivity and elaborates the methodological implications of this lens for interviewing methods and qualitative fieldwork. The author employs performative writing to exemplify that which exceeds accepted boundaries and normative scholarly representation.
14-Day Repeat-Dose Oral Toxicity Evaluation of Oxazyme in Rats and Dogs
Authors: Cowley Aaron B. , Poage Duane W. , Dean Robin R. , Meschter Carol L. , Ghoddusi Majid , Li Qing-Shan , Sidhu Harmeet
Published: December 2009

Oxazyme (OC4) is an orally administered formulation that has as an active component a recombinant mutant form of Bacillus subtilis oxalate decarboxylase (OxDC) enzyme C383S, designed to degrade dietary oxalate in the stomach. Fourteen-day repeat-dose studies were conducted in rats and dogs to evaluate toxicity and determine a no observed adverse effect level (NOAEL). Animals were administered OC4 by oral gavage twice daily for 14 consecutive days. Reversibility, progression, and delayed appearance of any observed changes were evaluated in a subset of animals that underwent a recovery of 7 days following 14 days of control or test-article. There were no test-article-related adverse effects or deaths in either species. Results indicate that the NOAEL under the conditions used in the studies was 720.8 mg/kg/d in rats and 187.2 mg/kg/d in dogs, the high dose tested in each species.
Cognitive impairment predicts conversion to multiple sclerosis in clinically isolated syndromes
Authors: Zipoli Valentina , Goretti Benedetta , Hakiki Bahia , Siracusa Gianfranco , Sorbi Sandro , Portaccio Emilio , Amato Maria Pia
Published: December 2009

Significant cognitive impairment has been found in 20—30% of patients with clinically isolated syndromes suggestive of multiple sclerosis. In this study we aimed to assess the prognostic value of the presence of cognitive impairment for the conversion to multiple sclerosis in patients with clinically isolated syndromes. All patients with clinically isolated syndromes consecutively referred to our centre since 2002 and who had been followed-up for at least one year underwent cognitive assessment through the Rao’s Battery and the Stroop test. Possible predictors of conversion to clinically definite multiple sclerosis were evaluated through the Kaplan Meier curves and Cox regression analysis. A total of 56 patients (41 women; age 33.2 ± 8.5 years; expanded disability scale score 1.2 ± 0.7) were recruited. At baseline, 32 patients (57%) fulfilled McDonald’s criteria for dissemination in space. During the follow-up (3.5 ± 2.3 years), 26 patients (46%) converted to a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. In particular, 64% of patients failing ≥ 2 tests and 88% of patients failing ≥ 3 tests converted to multiple sclerosis. In the Cox regression model, the failure of at least three tests (HR 3.3; 95% CI 1.4—8.1; p = 0.003) and the presence of McDonald’s dissemination in space at baseline (HR 3.8; 95% CI 1.5—9.7; p = 0.005), were found to be predictors for conversion to multiple sclerosis. We conclude that cognitive impairment is detectable in a sizable proportion of patients with clinically isolated syndromes. In these subjects cognitive impairment has a prognostic value in predicting conversion to multiple sclerosis and may therefore play a role in therapeutic decision making.
Discontinuing disease-modifying therapy in progressive multiple sclerosis: can we stop what we have started?
Authors: Lonergan Roisín , Kinsella Katie , Duggan Marguerite , Jordan Sinead , Hutchinson Michael , Tubridy Niall
Published: December 2009

Disease-modifying therapy is ineffective in disabled patients (Expanded Disability Status Scale [EDSS] > 6.5) with secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (MS) without relapses, or in primary progressive MS. Many patients with secondary progressive MS who initially had relapsing MS continue to use disease-modifying therapies. The enormous associated costs are a burden to health services. Regular assessment is recommended to guide discontinuation of disease-modifying therapies when no longer beneficial, but this is unavailable to many patients, particularly in rural areas. The objectives of this study are as follows: 1. To observe use of disease-modifying therapies in patients with progressive multiple sclerosis and EDSS > 6.5. 2. To examine approaches used by a group of international MS experts to stopping-disease modifying therapies in patients with secondary progressive MS without relapses. During an epidemiological study in three regions of Ireland (southeast Dublin city, and Wexford and Donegal Counties), we recorded details of disease-modifying therapies in patients with progressive MS and EDSS > 6.5. An e-questionnaire was sent to 26 neurologists with expert knowledge of MS, asking them to share their approach to stopping disease-modifying therapies in patients with secondary progressive MS. Three hundred and thirty-six patients were studied: 88 from southeast Dublin, 99 from Wexford and 149 from Donegal. Forty-four had EDSS > 6.5: 12 were still using disease-modifying therapies. Of the surveyed neurologists, 15 made efforts to stop disease-modifying therapies in progressive multiple sclerosis, but most did not insist. A significant proportion (12 of 44 patients with progressive MS and EDSS > 6.5) was considered to be receiving therapy without benefit. Eleven of the 12 were from rural counties, reflecting poorer access to neurology services. The costs of disease-modifying therapies in this group (>170,000 yearly) could be re-directed towards development of neurology services to optimize their management.
Do multimodal evoked potentials add information to MRI in clinically isolated syndromes?
Authors: Pelayo R. , Montalban X. , Minoves T. , Moncho D. , Rio J. , Nos C. , Tur C. , Castillo J. , Horga A. , Comabella M. , Perkal H. , Rovira A. , Tintoré M.
Published: December 2009

The role of multimodal evoked potentials (MMEPs) in establishing multiple sclerosis (MS) diagnosis and prognosis has diminished nowadays. The objective of this article is to evaluate whether MMEPs add information to MRI in identifying patients with higher risk of relapse or development of disability after a clinically isolated syndrome (CIS). Patients who underwent visual, somato-sensory and brainstem auditory evoked potentials (EPs) were identified from a cohort of consecutive CIS. Patients also underwent brain MRI within 3 months of first attack. We analysed time to second attack and to Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score of 3.0 according to number of Barkhof criteria and number of abnormal MMEPs. A complete study was performed in 245 patients who were followed for a mean of 76.4 months (interquartile range: 61 to 96). Seventy-one patients (29%) had the three EPs normal, 115 patients (47%) had one abnormal EP; 40 patients (16%) had two; and 19 patients (8%) had three abnormal EPs. Baseline MRI determined the risk for converting to clinically definite MS and correlated with disability according to previous studies. EPs individually did not modify the risk of conversion or disability. However, the presence of three abnormal EPs increased the risk of reaching moderate disability (hazard ratio 7.0; 1.4—34.9) independently of baseline MRI. In conclusion, in the presence of three abnormal EPs could help identify CIS patients with a higher risk of developing disability, independently of MRI findings. However, the utility of MMEPs is limited by the low percentage of CIS patients having the three abnormal at baseline.
The Multiple Sclerosis Knowledge Questionnaire: a self-administered instrument for recently diagnosed patients
Authors: Giordano A. , Messmer Uccelli M. , Pucci E. , Martinelli V. , Borreani C. , Lugaresi A. , Trojano M. , Granella F. , Confalonieri P. , Radice D. , Solari A. ,   SIMS-Trial group
Published: December 2009

There are few studies on patient knowledge in multiple sclerosis (MS), and only two published questionnaires. The objective of this article was to develop and validate the MS Knowledge Questionnaire (MSKQ), a self-assessed instrument for newly diagnosed MS patients. Thirty multiple-choice statements, conceived to test MS knowledge, were produced by a multidisciplinary panel and pre-tested on three MS patients, resulting in an intermediate 26-item version. This was tested on 54 MS patients for internal consistency, content and construct validity (validation sample I). The final (25-item) MSKQ was a primary outcome measure in the SIMS-Trial on an information aid to newly diagnosed MS patients. Postal responses of SIMS-Trial participants to the MSKQ a month after intervention (validation sample II) were analysed. Median MSKQ scores in validation samples I and II were, respectively, 18 (range 9—23) and 17 (range 3—24). Acceptability, internal consistency (Kuder—Richardson-20 formula 0.76) and content validity were good. Educational attainment and receiving the information aid were the main independent predictors of MS knowledge. Other predictors were female sex (positive association) and disease duration (negative association). In conclusion, the MSKQ has good clinimetric properties and is sensitive to an educational intervention. We propose the MSKQ as a brief instrument for clinical practice and research.
Recurrent neuromyelitis optica in Brazilian patients: clinical, immunological, and neuroimaging characteristics
Authors: Adoni T. , Lino AMM , da Gama PD , Apostolos-Pereira SL , Marchiori PE , Kok F. , Callegaro D.
Published: December 2009

Neuromyelitis optica has not been thoroughly studied in Brazilian patients following the discovery of NMO-IgG and its specific antigen aquaporin-4. In this study we aimed to describe the clinical NMO-IgG immunological status and neuroimaging characteristics of recurrent neuromyelitis optica in a series Brazilian patients. We undertook a retrospective study of 28 patients with recurrent neuromyelitis optica, according to 1999 Wingerchuk’s diagnostic criteria. Data on NMO-IgG status, clinical features, and MRI findings were analyzed. Three men and 25 women were evaluated. Median age at onset of disease was 26 years (range 7—55); median time of follow-up was 7 years (range 2—14). The mean time elapsed between the first and the second attack was 17 months (median 8.5; range 2—88). NMO-IgG was detected in 18 patients (64.3%). Four patients died due to respiratory failure. Most patients presented with cervical (36%) and cervical-thoracic myelitis (46.4%). Holocord lesion was the most common pattern of involvement (50%) on the axial plane. We did not find a statistical association between myelitis extension and NMO-IgG result. Our series of Brazilian patients showed a younger age of onset than previously reported. In our series, in contrast to previous reports, there was no correlation between the extension of myelitis and NMO-IgG positivity.