bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Relationship between Anger and Heterosexual Behavior. An Investigation in a Nonclinical Sample of Urban Italian Undergraduates
Authors: Muscatello Maria R.A. , Bruno Antonio , Scimeca Giuseppe , Pandolfo Gianluca , Paduano Riccardo , Mico’ Umberto , Bellinghieri Paolo Micali , Di Nardo Floriana , Iannuzzo Giovanni , Cofini Vincenza , Di Orio Ferdinando , Zoccali Rocco
Published: January 2010

Introduction

The relationship between anger and sexual behavior has never been thoroughly addressed, although it may deserve special attention because of its theoretical and practical consequences.

Aim

We were interested in determining the extent in which trait anger was associated with dysfunctional sexual behavior, taking into account possible gender differences.

Method

In this correlational study, 410 volunteers (199 men and 211 women) recruited from the students of the University of Messina, Italy, participated in the study. Median age of participants was 24 years. Men and women did not differ significantly in age (U = 18996, P = 0.606).

Main Outcome Measures

The individuals’ sexual behavior was assessed using the Sex and the Average Woman (or Man) questionnaire.

Results

We found no association between trait anger and either measure of sexual motivation: sexual excitement, r (396)=0.11, P = 0.016, and sexual fulfillment, r (396)=−0.06, P = 0.134. Also, gender had no effect on either of these two variables. Trait anger had a positive significant correlation with neurotic sex, r (396)=0.29, P <0.002, impersonal sex, r (396)=0.20, P <0.002, and aggressive sex, r (396)=0.28, P <0.002. As we predicted, the associations between trait anger and these last three variables were stronger for men than for women (although only aggressive sex had a significant result). In multivariate analyses, impersonal sex ceased to be a significant correlate of trait anger.

Conclusions

Trait anger has a negative effect on sexual behavior. It seems to exert its worst effects on the nature of sexual interpersonal behavior rather than on sexual motivation. We found no effect of gender on sexual motivation. However, the positive correlation between anger and relational sexual behavior was stronger for men than for women.
Genetic Polymorphisms of 17β-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase 3 and the Risk of Hypospadias
Authors: Sata Fumihiro , Kurahashi Norie , Ban Susumu , Moriya Kimihiko , Tanaka Kazuyuki D. , Ishizuka Mayumi , Nakao Hiroyuki , Yahata Yuichiro , Imai Hirohisa , Kakizaki Hidehiro , Nonomura Katsuya , Kishi Reiko
Published: January 2010

Introduction

Hypospadias is a common congenital anomaly caused by incomplete fusion of urethral folds. Development of the urethra and external genital system in the male fetus is an androgen-dependent process. In this regard, enzymes 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 3 (17βHSD3, encoded by HSD17B3) and steroid 5α-reductase type 2 (encoded by SRD5A2) play crucial roles.

Aim

To investigate the possible associations between common polymorphisms in HSD17B3 as well as well-known V89L polymorphism in SRD5A2 and risk of hypospadias.

Methods

A case-control study was performed between 1999 and 2005. There were 89 Japanese boys with hypospadias and 291 newborn controls. We genotyped HSD17B3−1999T>C, +10A>G, +20A>G, +139G>A (V31I), +913G>A (G289S), and SRD5A2+336G>C (V89L) polymorphisms by allelic discrimination assay. We measured mRNA expression of the wildtype G289 allele and the mutant S289 allele of the HSD17B3 gene in the transfected human fetal kidney HEK293 cells.

Main Outcome Measures

Assessment of hypospadias including its severity and HSD17B3 and SRD5A2 genes using DNA blood samples: allele and genotype distribution of single nucleotide polymorphisms in these two genes in cases and controls.

Results

In our study, the risk of hypospadias was significantly higher in subjects carrying homozygous HSD17B3+913A (289S) alleles (odds ratio [OR]: 3.06; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.38–6.76). The risk of severe hypospadias was much higher in these subjects (OR: 3.93; 95% CI: 1.34–11.49). The mRNA expression levels of HSD17B3 G289 were higher than those of HSD17B3 S289 mutant (P <0.001). In addition, the risk of severe hypospadias increased in boys carrying the SRD5A2+336C (89L) allele (OR: 3.19; 95% CI: 1.09–9.36).

Conclusions

These results suggest that the HSD17B3 G289S polymorphism may be a potential risk modifier for hypospadias. Our findings provide evidence that a certain genotype related to androgen production may potentiate risk of hypospadias.
A New Perfusion Model for Studying Erectile Function
Authors: Zhao Chen , Chae Han Jung , Kim Suhn Hee , Cui Wan Shou , Lee Sung Won , Jeon Ju-Hong , Park Jong Kwan
Published: January 2010

Introduction

The present study introduces a newly devised in vitro penile perfusion model, which allows the measurement of changes in intracavernosum pressure (ICP), tension, and cyclic nucleotides in penile tissue in a one-step procedure.

Aims

We compared the penile perfusion model with the classical penile strip chamber model to develop the new model.

Methods

We investigated the role of nitric oxide-cyclic guanosine monophosphate pathway in both systems activated by acetylcholine or electrical field stimulation (EFS). We measured cGMP (cyclic guanosine monophosphate) in the penile corpus cavernosum smooth muscle in both systems and perfusates in the penile perfusion model. We determined ICP, tension, and cGMP simultaneously in penile perfusion model during the experiments.

Main Outcome Measures

Changes of tension and cGMP in both models, and of cGMP in perfusates and of ICP in penile perfusion model.

Results

In both systems, acetylcholine relaxed the phenylephrine-precontracted penile corpus cavernosum smooth muscle in a concentration-dependent manner. EFS decreased the tension in both models and ICP in the penile perfusion model in a frequency-dependent manner. Pretreatment with atropine, Nω nitro-L-arginine-methyl ester (L-NAME), and 1H-[1,2,4]oxadiazolo[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-one (ODQ) blocked the acetylcholine-induced decrease in the tension in both models and ICP in penile perfusion model. Acetylcholine increased cGMP levels in the perfusate of penile perfusion model and the changes were attenuated by tetrodotoxin (TTX), atropine, L-NAME and ODQ. EFS increased cGMP levels of the penile corpus cavernosum smooth muscle of both models and the changes were attenuated by TTX, atropine, L-NAME, and ODQ.

Conclusion

The results indicated that the responses of penile strip and perfused penile tissue to acetylcholine and EFS were very similar in both models in terms of tension and cGMP levels. Furthermore, the new model has more advantages over the classical penile strip chamber model in measuring intracavernosum metabolic changes and ICP without interruption of the procedure.
Long-Term Outcome of Surgical Treatment of Penile Fracture Complicated by Urethral Rupture
Authors: El-Assmy Ahmed , El-Tholoth Hossam S. , Mohsen Tarek , Ibrahiem El Housseiny I.
Published: January 2010

Introduction

The combination of lesions of the penile urethra and the corpus cavernosum is rare and is likely to worsen the immediate and long-term prognosis.

Aim

To assess the late effects of penile fractures complicated by urethral rupture treated by immediate surgical intervention.

Methods

Fourteen patients with concomitant urethral rupture were treated surgically at our center. Those patients were seen in the outpatient follow-up clinic and were re-evaluated.

Main Outcome Measures

Sexual Health Inventory for Men questionnaire, local examination, uroflowmetry and penile color Doppler ultrasound.

Results

The most common cause of penile fracture is sexual intercourse (50%). The site of tunical tear was in the proximal shaft of the penis in 3 patients (21%) and in the mid of the shaft in 11 patients (79%). Urethral injury was localized at the same level as the corpus cavernosum tear in all cases; and it was partial in 11 cases and complete in 3. Long-term follow-up (mean=90 months) was available for 12 patients; among whom there was no complications in 4 (33%), painful erection in 1 (8%), erectile dysfunction in 2 (17%), and palpable fibrous nodule in 5 (47%). All patients had a normal urinary flow except one who developed relative urethral narrowing that required regular dilatation for 1 month.

Conclusions

The urethral injury complicating penile fracture is often partial and localized at the level of the corpora cavenosa tear. Standard treatment consists of immediate surgical repair of both urethral and corporal ruptures with no harmful long-term sequelae on urethral and erectile function in most of patients.
Do freegans commit theft?
Authors: Thomas Sean
Published: January 2010

The environmental impact of mass consumerism is a growing concern, with a particular consequence being the production of significant levels of waste goods. Goods are often disposed of whilst still being useable. One proposed method of reducing the environmental impact of the levels of waste of useable goods is freeganism. This paper provides an overview of freeganism, followed by an evaluation of the impact of English criminal law on freeganism. This paper will consider the claim that freegans commit theft. First there is analysis of the possibility that freegans cannot be guilty of theft because they only deal with abandoned property. Although there is considerable strength in this claim, the difficulties with establishing that property is abandoned necessitates the development of an alternative defence. It will be suggested that freeganism is not an activity that is dishonest in a way so as to attract criminal sanction. This argument is based on the structure of the criminal law relating to theft, which has defences based on claims of right, subjective honesty and the considerations of ordinary people (ie jury members). It is concluded that freegans should not be guilty of theft under the current English criminal law.
The paradoxes of legal paternalism and how to resolve them
Authors: Ogus Anthony
Published: January 2010

Legal paternalism occurs when the law forces individuals to avoid certain risks (‘hard paternalism’), or, without coercion, nudges them away from such risks (‘soft paternalism’), on the ground that otherwise they will make unwise decisions. The questions when and how such approaches should be taken are of fundamental importance in a society in which there are increasing risks to health and livelihood resulting from technological developments and greater freedom of choice. However, they are not openly addressed in policy-making circles and have also been neglected in the European legal literature. In this paper, I attempt to explain these paradoxes and to outline a theoretical benefit–cost framework for determining when and how legal paternalism might be considered appropriate.
Reconstructing European insolvency law – putting in place a new paradigm
Authors: McCormack Gerard
Published: January 2010

This paper critically examines the European Insolvency Regulation. It suggests the Regulation contains a fatal flaw at its heart; namely the ‘centre of main interests’ or COMI test governing the exercise of universal insolvency jurisdiction. The paper argues for greater jurisdictional flexibility to replace the COMI test and defends this proposal against charges that it will contribute to an excess of ‘forum shopping’ and encourage a ‘race to the bottom’. The American experience with bankruptcy court competition is considered in this connection.
Modeling of the Humidity Effects on the Oxygen Absorption by Iron‐Based Scavengers
Authors: Polyakov Vladimir A. , Miltz Joseph
Published: January 2010

ABSTRACT:  It has been reported in the scientific literature that moisture is required for oxygen absorption by iron‐based scavengers. The rate of oxygen absorption is crucial in oxygen‐sensitive foods. However, no quantitative correlations between the relative humidity and the oxygen absorption by these scavengers have been found in the scientific literature. The humidity level, the O2 concentration, and the gas composition inside the package are the major factors determining the isothermal O2 absorption kinetics. In the present study, the effect of RH on the oxygen absorption of an iron powder taken from an oxygen scavenger was investigated. This process was modeled, and correlations have been developed and compared to experimental results. The developed models describe well the effect of humidity on the oxygen absorption by the iron powder. It was found that an increase in the rate of oxygen absorption results in a decrease in the porosity, an increase in the specific surface area of the iron powder's corrosion products, and a decrease in the O2 diffusivity through the particles. The heat evolved during the exothermic reaction leads to a decrease in the amount of water adsorbed on the corrosion products. The results of the present study elucidate the effect of moisture on the O2 absorption by iron‐based oxygen scavengers and can be used for a proper design of packages intended for storage of foods and fruits and vegetables of intermediate and high water activity.

Practical Application: Since humidity has an important role in determining the rate of oxygen absorption kinetics by iron‐based oxygen scavengers, using the models derived and presented in the present publication can bring upon a better understanding of the oxygen absorption process and a more efficient way of using oxygen scavengers in the packaging and storing of different oxygen sensitive foods.
Antimicrobial Property, Antioxidant Capacity, and Cytotoxicity of Essential Oil from Cumin Produced in Iran
Authors: Allahghadri Tolou , Rasooli Iraj , Owlia Parviz , Nadooshan Mohammadreza Jalali , Ghazanfari Tooba , Taghizadeh Massoud , Astaneh Shakiba Darvish Alipoor
Published: January 2010

ABSTRACT:  Cumin (Cuminum cyminum) is one of the commonly used spices in food preparations. It is also used in traditional medicine as a stimulant, a carminative, and an astringent. In this study, we characterized the antimicrobial, antioxidant, and cytotoxic activities of cumin. E. coli, S. aureus, and S. faecalis were sensitive to various oil dilutions. The total phenol content of the essential oil was estimated to be 33.43 μg GAE/mg of the oil. The oil showed higher antioxidant activity compared with that of BHT and BHA. The cumin essential oil exhibited a dose‐dependent scavenging of DPPH radicals and 5.4 μg of the oil was sufficient to scavenge 50% of DPPH radicals/mL. At a concentration of 0.1 μL/mL, oil destructed Hela cells by 79%. The antioxidant activity of cumin essential oil might contribute to its cytotoxic activity. Acute and subchronic toxicity was studied in a 30‐d oral toxicity study by administration to Wistar rats of the essential oil. A 17.38% decrease in WBCs count, and 25.77%, 14.24%, and 108.81% increase in hemoglobin concentration, hematocrit, and platelet count, respectively, were noted. LDL/HDL ratio was reduced to half, which adds to the nutritional effects of cumin. Thus, cumin with a high phenolic content and good antioxidant activity can be supplemented for both nutritional purposes and preservation of foods.
Combination of Sodium Chlorite and Calcium Propionate Reduces Enzymatic Browning and Microbial Population of Fresh‐Cut “Granny Smith” Apples
Authors: Guan Wenqiang , Fan Xuetong
Published: January 2010

ABSTRACT:  Tissue browning and microbial growth are the main concerns associated with fresh‐cut apples. In this study, effects of sodium chlorite (SC) and calcium propionate (CP), individually and combined, on quality and microbial population of apple slices were investigated. “Granny Smith” apple slices, dipped for 5 min in CP solutions at 0%, 0.5%, 1%, and 2% (w/v) either alone or in combination with 0.05% (w/v) SC, were stored at 3 and 10 °C for up to 14 d. Color, firmness, and microflora population were measured at 1, 7, and 14 d of storage. Results showed that CP alone had no significant effect on the browning of cut apples. Even though SC significantly inhibited tissue browning initially, the apple slices turned brown during storage at 10 °C. The combination of CP and SC was able to inhibit apple browning during storage. Samples treated with the combination of SC with CP did not show any detectable yeast and mold growth during the entire storage period at 3 °C. At 10 °C, yeast and mold count increased on apple slices during storage while CP reduced the increase. However, high concentrations of CP reduced the efficacy of SC in inactivating E. coli inoculated on apples. Overall, our results suggested that combination of SC with 0.5% and 1% CP could be used to inhibit tissue browning and maintain firmness while reducing microbial population.

Practical Application: Apple slices, which contain antioxidants and other nutrient components, have emerged as popular snacks in food service establishments, school lunch programs, and for family consumption. However, the further growth of the industry is limited by product quality deterioration caused by tissue browning, short shelf‐life due to microbial growth, and possible contamination with human pathogens during processing. Therefore, this study was conducted to develop treatments to reduce microbial population and tissue browning of “Granny Smith” apple slices. Results showed that an antimicrobial compound, sodium chlorite, is effective in not only eliminating microbes but also inhibiting tissue browning of apple slices. However, the compound caused tissue softening and its antibrowning effect was short‐lived, lasting only for a few days. Combination of the compound with a calcium‐containing food additive was able to improve firmness and freshness of apple slices while reducing population of Escherichia coli artificially inoculated on samples and inhibiting the growth of yeast and mold during storage.
Effect of Cooking Method, Distiller's Grains, and Vitamin E Supplementation on the Vitamin Content of Value Cuts from Beef Steers Fed Wet Distiller's Grains and Solubles and Supplemental Vitamin E
Authors: Kim Y.N. , Giraud D.W. , Masrizal M.A. , Hamouz F.L. , Watanabe K. , Schnepf M.I. , De Mello, Jr A.S. , Erickson G.E. , Calkins C.R. , Driskell J.A.
Published: January 2010

ABSTRACT:  Vitamin E, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12 concentrations of flat iron steaks and petite tenders from steers fed finishing rations containing 0% and 40% corn wet distiller's grains and solubles (WDGS) with and without supplemental vitamin E were determined. Feeding treatment groups were: 0% WDGS with basal vitamin E, 0% WDGS with supplemental vitamin E (500 IU daily), 40% WDGS with basal vitamin E, and 40% WDGS and supplemental vitamin E. Cattle can be fed 40% WDGS diets more economically than corn diets. The incorporation of 40% WDGS, with and without vitamin E, was hypothesized to have little effect on the vitamin concentrations of these value meat cuts. Flat iron steaks and petite tenders were broiled and/or grilled to 70 °C internal temperature. Mean cooking yields ranged from 68.7% to 78.2%. The majority of the vitamin concentrations of broiled and of grilled meat were significantly different (P < 0.05) from that of raw meat. Vitamin E concentrations of raw and cooked meat from steers that received supplemental vitamin E were significantly higher (P < 0.05) than those fed basal vitamin E. Significant differences in thiamin, riboflavin, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12 concentrations in raw flat iron steaks and in vitamin B6 in raw petite tenders were observed by WDGS. Thiamin, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12 concentrations of broiled flat iron steaks were significantly different (P < 0.05) than grilled. A few differences in vitamin concentrations of the flat iron steaks and petite tenders were observed by WDGS, vitamin E supplementation, and cooking treatments, but most of the vitamin concentrations were statistically similar.
Texturized Dairy Proteins
Authors: Onwulata Charles I. , Phillips John G. , Tunick Michael H. , Qi Phoebi X. , Cooke Peter H.
Published: January 2010

ABSTRACT:  Dairy proteins are amenable to structural modifications induced by high temperature, shear, and moisture; in particular, whey proteins can change conformation to new unfolded states. The change in protein state is a basis for creating new foods. The dairy products, nonfat dried milk (NDM), whey protein concentrate (WPC), and whey protein isolate (WPI) were modified using a twin‐screw extruder at melt temperatures of 50, 75, and 100 °C, and moistures ranging from 20 to 70 wt%. Viscoelasticity and solubility measurements showed that extrusion temperature was a more significant (P < 0.05) change factor than moisture content. The degree of texturization, or change in protein state, was characterized by solubility (R2= 0.98). The consistency of the extruded dairy protein ranged from rigid (2500 N) to soft (2.7 N). Extruding at or above 75 °C resulted in increased peak force for WPC (138 to 2500 N) and WPI (2.7 to 147.1 N). NDM was marginally texturized; the presence of lactose interfered with its texturization. WPI products extruded at 50 °C were not texturized; their solubility values ranged from 71.8% to 92.6%. A wide possibility exists for creating new foods with texturized dairy proteins due to the extensive range of states achievable. Dairy proteins can be used to boost the protein content in puffed snacks made from corn meal, but unmodified, they bind water and form doughy pastes with starch. To minimize the water binding property of dairy proteins, WPI, or WPC, or NDM were modified by extrusion processing. Extrusion temperature conditions were adjusted to 50, 75, or 100 °C, sufficient to change the structure of the dairy proteins, but not destroy them. Extrusion modified the structures of these dairy proteins for ease of use in starchy foods to boost nutrient levels.

Practical Application: Dairy proteins can be used to boost the protein content in puffed snacks made from corn meal, but unmodified, they bind water and form doughy pastes with starch. To minimize the water binding property of dairy proteins, whey protein isolate, whey protein concentrate, or nonfat dried milk were modified by extrusion processing. Extrusion temperature conditions were adjusted to 50, 75, or 100 °C, sufficient to change the structure of the dairy proteins, but not destroy them. Extrusion modified the structures of these dairy proteins for ease of use in starchy foods to boost nutrient levels.
Ultraviolet Radiation Protection by a Beach Umbrella
Authors: Utrillas María P. , Martínez‐Lozano José A. , Nuñez Manuel
Published: January 2010

A beach umbrella intercepts all direct UV irradiance, but only part of the diffuse component. Using a simple sky view factor model, we have determined the fraction of the hemispheric diffuse irradiance that is not intercepted by the umbrella. Assuming a sensor at the surface and close to the center of the umbrella, isotropic diffuse irradiance and for an umbrella of 80 cm radius and 100 cm high, our results show that approximately 34% of the incident horizontal irradiance is not intercepted by the umbrella. These results agree with irradiance measurements conducted with and without the umbrella. The model is next extended to examine receipt of UV radiation by a human figure in a vertical position, either standing or sitting.
Environmental occurrence and clinical impact of Vibrio vulnificus and Vibrio parahaemolyticus: a European perspective
Authors: Baker‐Austin Craig , Stockley Louise , Rangdale Rachel , Martinez‐Urtaza Jaime
Published: January 2010

Vibrio vulnificus and Vibrio parahaemolyticus are ubiquitous Gram‐negative bacterial pathogens found naturally in marine and estuarine waters, and are a leading cause of seafood‐associated bacterial illness. These pathogens are commonly reported in the USA and in many Asian countries, including China, Japan and Taiwan; however, there is growing concern that V. vulnificus and V. parahaemolyticus may represent an important and increasing clinical problem in Europe. Several factors underlie the need for a greater understanding of these non‐cholera vibrios within a European context. First, there is a growing body of evidence to suggest that V. vulnificus and V. parahaemolyticus infections are increasing, and tend to follow regional climatic trends, with outbreaks typically following episodes of unusually warm weather. Such findings are especially alarming given current predictions regarding warming of marine waters as a result of global climatic change. Second, a myriad of epidemiological factors may greatly increase the incidence as well as clinical burden of these pathogens – including increasing global consumption and trade of seafood produce coupled to an increase in the number of susceptible individuals consuming seafood produce. Finally, there is currently a lack of detailed surveillance information regarding non‐cholerae Vibrio infections in Europe, as these pathogens are not notifiable in many countries, which probably masks the true clinical burden of many human infections. This review will present a pertinent overview of both the environmental occurrence and clinical impact of V. vulnificus and V. parahaemolyticus in Europe.
Fluorescence and Fiber-Optics Based Real-Time Thickness Sensor for Dynamic Liquid Films
Authors: Ng T. W. , Narain A. , Kivisalu M. T.
Published: January 2010

To overcome the limitations/disadvantages of many known liquid film thickness sensing devices (viz. conductivity probes, reflectance based fiber-optics probes, capacitance probes, etc.), a new liquid film thickness sensor that utilizes fluorescence phenomena and fiber-optic technology has been developed and reported here. Measurements from this sensor are expected to facilitate better understanding of liquid film dynamics in various adiabatic, evaporating, and condensing film flows. The sensor accurately measures the instantaneous thickness of a dynamically changing liquid film in such a way that the probe does not perturb the flow dynamics in the proximity of the probe’s tip. This is achieved by having the probe’s exposed surface embedded flush with the surface over which the liquid film flows, and by making arrangements for processing the signals associated with the emission and collection of light (in distinctly different wavelength windows) at the probe’s flush surface. Instantaneous film thickness in the range of 0.5–3.0 mm can accurately (with a resolution that is within ±0.09 mm over 0.5–1.5 mm range and within ±0.18 mm over 1.5–3.0 mm range) be measured by the sensor described in this paper. Although this paper only demonstrates the sensor’s ability for dynamic film thickness measurements carried out for a doped liquid called FC-72 (perfluorohexane or C6F14 from 3M Corporation, Minneapolis, MN), the approach and development/calibration procedure described here can be extended, under similar circumstances, to some other liquid films and other thickness ranges as well.
Inverse Heat Conduction in a Composite Slab With Pyrolysis Effect and Temperature-Dependent Thermophysical Properties
Authors: Zhou Jianhua , Zhang Yuwen , Chen J. K. , Feng Z. C.
Published: January 2010

The inverse heat conduction problem (IHCP) in a one-dimensional composite slab with rate-dependent pyrolysis chemical reaction and outgassing flow effects is investigated using the iterative regularization approach. The thermal properties of the composites are considered to be temperature-dependent. A nonlinear conjugate gradient method formulation is developed and applied to solve the IHCP in an organic composite slab whose front-surface is subjected to high intensity periodic laser heating.
A Hybrid Method for Measuring Heat Flux
Authors: Hubble David O. , Diller Tom E.
Published: January 2010

The development and evaluation of a novel hybrid method for obtaining heat flux measurements is presented. By combining the spatial and temporal temperature measurements of a heat flux sensor, the time response, accuracy, and versatility of the sensor is improved. Sensors utilizing the hybrid method are able to make heat flux measurements on both high and low conductivity materials. It is shown that changing the thermal conductivity of the backing material four orders of magnitude causes only an 11% change in sensor response. The hybrid method also increases the time response of heat flux sensors. The temporal response is shown to increase by up to a factor of 28 compared with a standard spatial sensor. The hybrid method is tested both numerically and experimentally on both high and low conductivity materials and demonstrates significant improvement compared with operating the sensor as a spatial or temporal sensor alone.
Pool Boiling Heat Transfer of Water on Finned Surfaces at Near Vacuum Pressures
Authors: Chan Mark Aaron , Yap Christopher R. , Ng Kim Choon
Published: January 2010

This research paper presents a study of boiling heat transfer from longitudinal rectangular-finned surfaces immersed in saturated water at low vapor pressures. Finned surfaces with assorted fin spacing, fin thicknesses, and fin heights on a copper based surface have been investigated. All the finned surfaces were found to increase both boiling heat transfer coefficients and critical heat fluxes. An optimal fin thickness was found for a configuration, and heat transfer coefficients have been obtained at the pressures. Factors affecting the boiling characteristics have been identified and the optimal enhancement requires a balance of the active nucleation sites, bubble flow resistance, natural convection, thin film evaporation, liquid superheating, heat transfer area, bubble coalescence, and liquid reflux resistance. High speed visualization of vapor plug and vapor film generation on the boiling surfaces has revealed significant insights into the boiling mechanisms at low saturation pressures.
Dynamic Burst Pressure Simulation of Cylinder-Cylinder Intersections
Authors: Cheng Cunjiang , Widera G. E. Otto
Published: January 2010

In this study, the determination of the burst pressure of a series of cylinder-cylinder intersections representing vessels of diameter D and wall thickness T, and nozzles of diameter d and wall thickness t subjected to short-term dynamic loading is investigated. Dynamic simulations via the use of the finite element method are carried out to determine the effects of dimensionless parameters d/D, D/T, and t/T, as well as pressure versus time history. The LS-DYNA (1998, LS-DYNA Theoretical Manual, Livermore Software Technology Corporation) software is employed to model and analyze various intersections for the geometric parameter ranges 0.1≤d/D<1.0, 0.1≤t/T≤3, and 50≤D/T≤250. The use of both solid and shell elements is investigated and applied in this study. A correlation equation to predict the dynamic burst pressure of cylinder-cylinder intersections is proposed based on the parametric finite element analyses. Static test data are used to verify the dynamic correlation equation by applying a relatively long pressure pulse duration.
Improved Imaging of Fatigue Crack Profile in Thick Cruciform Samples Using Ultrasonic Phased Array Models
Authors: Alavudeen S. , Krishnamurthy C. V. , Balasubramaniam Krishnan , Pugazhendhi D. M. , Raghava G. , Gandhi P.
Published: January 2010

The determination of depth profile of vertical fatigue cracks generated in thick cruciform samples using an ultrasonic phased array is investigated in this paper. The cracks were formed by conducting fatigue fracture test on two mild steel cruciform specimens of 135 mm thickness: one under room temperature and the other under subzero temperature (−70°C). A semi-elliptical surface starter notch of 2 mm width and more than 400 mm length was initially created in the specimens. Alternating current potential drop technique and phased array ultrasonic technique were attempted in order to determine the depth profiles of the starter notch as well as that of the crack. Virtual experiments carried out with a finite-difference time domain based numerical model were found to be advantageous in reducing actual experimental trials, facilitate an understanding of the echo signatures, and help assess the crack depth. The profiles of the crack and the notch were verified through destructive assay of the samples and subsequent dye penetrant assisted physical measurements.
The Beneficial Contribution of Realistic Autofrettage to the Load-Carrying Capacity of Thick-Walled Spherical Pressure Vessels
Authors: Perl M. , Perry J.
Published: January 2010

Increased strength-to-weight ratio and extended fatigue life are the main objectives in the optimal design of modern pressure vessels. These two goals can mutually be achieved by creating a proper residual stress field in the vessel’s wall by a process known as autofrettage. Although there are many studies that have investigated the autofrettage problem for cylindrical vessels, only a few of such studies exist for spherical ones. Because of the spherosymmetry of the problem, autofrettage in a spherical pressure vessel is treated as a one-dimensional problem and solved solely in terms of the radial displacement. The mathematical model is based on the idea of solving the elastoplastic autofrettage problem using the form of the elastic solution. Substituting Hooke’s equations into the equilibrium equation and using the strain-displacement relations yield a differential equation, which is a function of the plastic strains. The plastic strains are determined using the Prandtl–Reuss flow rule and the differential equation is solved by the explicit finite difference method. The existing 2D computer program, for the evaluation of hydrostatic autofrettage in a thick-walled cylinder, is adapted to handle the problem of spherical autofrettage. The presently obtained residual stress field is then validated against three existing solutions emphasizing the major role the material law plays in determining the autofrettage residual stress field. The new code is applied to a series of spherical pressure vessels yielding two major conclusions. First, the process of autofrettage increases considerably the maximum safe pressure that can be applied to the vessel. This beneficial effect can also be used to reduce the vessel’s weight rather than to increase the allowable internal pressure. Second, the specific maximum safe pressure increases as the vessel becomes thinner. The present results clearly indicate that autofrettaging of spherical pressure vessels can be very advantageous in various applications.
Broadband source localization using horizontal-beam acoustic intensity striations
Authors: Turgut Altan , Orr Marshall , Rouseff Daniel
Published: January 2010

Waveguide invariant theory is applied to horizontal line array (HLA) beamformer output to localize moving broadband noise sources from measured acoustic intensity striation patterns. Acoustic signals emitted by ships of opportunity (merchant ships) were simultaneously recorded on a HLA and three hydrophones separated by 10km during the RAGS03 (relationship between array gain and shelf-break fluid processes) experiment. Hough transforms are used to estimate both the waveguide invariant parameter “beta” and the ratio of source range at the closest point of approach to source speed from the observed striation patterns. Broadband (50–150-Hz) acoustic data-sets are used to demonstrate source localization capability as well as inversion capability of waveguide invariant parameter beta. Special attention is paid to bathymetric variability since the acoustic intensity striation patterns seem to be influenced by range-dependent bathymetry of the experimental area. The Hough transform method is also applied to the HLA beam-time record data and to the acoustic intensity data from three distant receivers to validate the estimation results from HLA beamformer output. Good agreement of the results from all three approaches suggests the feasibility of locating broadband noise sources and estimating waveguide invariant parameter beta in shallow waters.
Sensory constraints on auditory identification of the material and geometric properties of struck bars
Authors: Lutfi Robert A. , Stoelinga Christophe N. J.
Published: January 2010

A computational formula is derived for estimating the constraints limited auditory sensitivity imposes on auditory identification of the material and geometric properties of struck bars. The formula combines a model of the transverse motion of the bar with empirical psychometric functions to map out “null” regions in the bar’s physical parameter space where changes in the frequency, amplitude, and decay of partials are likely below threshold for detection. Parameters of the physical space include bar density, Young’s modulus, fluid and viscoelastic damping factors, bar length, and bar cross-sectional area (as related to bar shape and hollowness). The formula is used to estimate the possible effect of limited sensitivity in past studies on the auditory identification of bar attributes. The results suggest that sensitivity may, indeed, have played a role in some studies, and that apparent discrepancies in results may be understood based on whether the predominant source of damping was internal or external to the bar. The formula identifies conditions representing an expected bound on identification performance and thereby may be used to aid in the design of future studies for which the struck bar is the sound source of choice.
Seismoelectric reflection and transmission at a fluid/porous-medium interface
Authors: Schakel Menne , Smeulders David
Published: January 2010

The dispersion relation for seismoelectric wave propagation in poroelastic media is formulated in terms of effective densities comprising all viscous and electrokinetic coupling effects. Using Helmholtz decomposition, two seismoelectric conversion coefficients are derived, for an incident P-wave upon an interface between a compressible fluid and a poroelastic medium. These coefficients relate the incident P-wave to a reflected electromagnetic wave in the fluid, and a transmitted electromagnetic wave in the porous medium. The dependency on angle of incidence and frequency is computed. Using orthodox and interference fluxes, it is shown that energy conservation is satisfied. A sensitivity analysis indicates that electrolyte concentration, viscosity, and permeability highly influence seismoelectric conversion.
Voice fundamental frequency modulates vocal response to pitch perturbations during English speech
Authors: Liu Hanjun , Auger James , Larson Charles R.
Published: January 2010

Previous research has demonstrated task-dependent vocal responses to pitch perturbations during speech production. The present study investigated the effect of voice fundamental frequency (F0) on the modulation of vocal responses during English speech. Randomized pitch shifts of ±100 or 200 cents during speaking were presented to English speakers. Results indicated larger vocal responses and shorter latencies at a high voice F0 than at a low voice F0, but no significance differences were observed for stimulus magnitude or direction. These findings suggest that the pitch-shift reflex during speech can be modulated as a function of voice F0.
Major and minor music compared to excited and subdued speech
Authors: Bowling Daniel L. , Gill Kamraan , Choi Jonathan D. , Prinz Joseph , Purves Dale
Published: January 2010

The affective impact of music arises from a variety of factors, including intensity, tempo, rhythm, and tonal relationships. The emotional coloring evoked by intensity, tempo, and rhythm appears to arise from association with the characteristics of human behavior in the corresponding condition; however, how and why particular tonal relationships in music convey distinct emotional effects are not clear. The hypothesis examined here is that major and minor tone collections elicit different affective reactions because their spectra are similar to the spectra of voiced speech uttered in different emotional states. To evaluate this possibility the spectra of the intervals that distinguish major and minor music were compared to the spectra of voiced segments in excited and subdued speech using fundamental frequency and frequency ratios as measures. Consistent with the hypothesis, the spectra of major intervals are more similar to spectra found in excited speech, whereas the spectra of particular minor intervals are more similar to the spectra of subdued speech. These results suggest that the characteristic affective impact of major and minor tone collections arises from associations routinely made between particular musical intervals and voiced speech.
A unifying fractional wave equation for compressional and shear waves
Authors: Holm Sverre , Sinkus Ralph
Published: January 2010

This study has been motivated by the observed difference in the range of the power-law attenuation exponent for compressional and shear waves. Usually compressional attenuation increases with frequency to a power between 1 and 2, while shear wave attenuation often is described with powers less than 1. Another motivation is the apparent lack of partial differential equations with desirable properties such as causality that describe such wave propagation. Starting with a constitutive equation which is a generalized Hooke’s law with a loss term containing a fractional derivative, one can derive a causal fractional wave equation previously given by Caputo [Geophys J. R. Astron. Soc. 13, 529–539 (1967)] and Wismer [J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 120, 3493–3502 (2006)]. In the low ωτ (low-frequency) case, this equation has an attenuation with a power-law in the range from 1 to 2. This is consistent with, e.g., attenuation in tissue. In the often neglected high ωτ (high-frequency) case, it describes attenuation with a power-law between 0 and 1, consistent with what is observed in, e.g., dynamic elastography. Thus a unifying wave equation derived properly from constitutive equations can describe both cases.
Low-frequency target strength and abundance of shoaling Atlantic herring (Clupea harengus) in the Gulf of Maine during the Ocean Acoustic Waveguide Remote Sensing 2006 Experiment
Authors: Gong Zheng , Andrews Mark , Jagannathan Srinivasan , Patel Ruben , Jech J. Michael , Makris Nicholas C. , Ratilal Purnima
Published: January 2010

The low-frequency target strength of shoaling Atlantic herring (Clupea harengus) in the Gulf of Maine during Autumn 2006 spawning season is estimated from experimental data acquired simultaneously at multiple frequencies in the 300–1200Hz range using (1) a low-frequency ocean acoustic waveguide remote sensing (OAWRS) system, (2) areal population density calibration with several conventional fish finding sonar (CFFS) systems, and (3) low-frequency transmission loss measurements. The OAWRS system’s instantaneous imaging diameter of 100km and regular updating enabled unaliased monitoring of fish populations over ecosystem scales including shoals of Atlantic herring containing hundreds of millions of individuals, as confirmed by concurrent trawl and CFFS sampling. High spatial-temporal coregistration was found between herring shoals imaged by OAWRS and concurrent CFFS line-transects, which also provided fish depth distributions. The mean scattering cross-section of an individual shoaling herring is found to consistently exhibit a strong, roughly 20dB/octave roll-off with decreasing frequency in the range of the OAWRS survey over all days of the roughly 2-week experiment, consistent with the steep roll-offs expected for sub-resonance scattering from fish with air-filled swimbladders.
An iterative method for the computation of nonlinear, wide-angle, pulsed acoustic fields of medical diagnostic transducers
Authors: Huijssen J. , Verweij M. D.
Published: January 2010

The development and optimization of medical ultrasound transducers and imaging modalities require a computational method that accurately predicts the nonlinear acoustic pressure field. A prospective method should provide the wide-angle, pulsed field emitted by an arbitrary planar source distribution and propagating in a three-dimensional, large scale domain holding a nonlinear acoustic medium. In this paper, a method is presented that is free of any assumed wavefield directionality. The nonlinear acoustic wave equation is solved by treating the nonlinear term as a contrast source. This formulation leads to an iterative scheme that involves the repetitive solution of a linear wave problem through Green’s function method. It is shown that accurate field predictions may be obtained within a few iterations. Moreover, by employing a dedicated numerical convolution technique, the method allows for a discretization down to two points per wavelength or period of the highest frequency of interest. The performance of the method is evaluated through a number of nonlinear field predictions for pulsed transducers with various geometries. The results demonstrate the directional independence of the method. Moreover, comparison with results from several existing methods shows that the method accurately predicts the nonlinear field for weak to moderate nonlinearity.
Distribution theory approach to implementing directional acoustic sensors
Authors: Schmidlin Dean J.
Published: January 2010

The objective of directional acoustic sensors is to provide high directivity while occupying a small amount of space. An idealized point sensor achieves this objective from a knowledge of the spatial partial derivatives of acoustic pressure at a point in space. Direct measurement of these derivatives is difficult in practice. Consequently, it is expedient to come up with indirect methods. The use of pressure sensors to construct finite-difference approximations is an example of such a method. This paper utilizes the theory of distributions to derive another indirect method for estimating the various spatial partial derivatives of the pressure. This alternate method is then used to construct a multichannel filter which processes the acoustic pressure by mean of three-dimensional integral transforms throughout a 6ε-length cube centered at the origin. The output of the multichannel filter is a spatially and temporally filtered version of the pressure at the origin. The temporal filter is a lowpass Gaussian filter whose bandwidth is inversely proportional to ε. Finally, the lattice method for numerical multiple integration is utilized to develop a discrete-spatial version of the multichannel filter.
Temporal pitch percepts elicited by dual-channel stimulation of a cochlear implant
Authors: Macherey Olivier , Carlyon Robert P.
Published: January 2010

McKay and McDermott [J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 100, 1081–1092 (1996)] found that when two different amplitude-modulated pulse trains are presented to two channels separated by <1.5 mm, some cochlear implant (CI) listeners perceive the aggregate temporal pattern. The present study attempted to extend this general finding and to test whether dual-electrode stimulation would increase the upper limit of temporal pitch perception in CIs. Six subjects were asked to rank 12 dual-channel stimuli differing in their rate [ranging from 92 to 516 pps (pulses per second) on each individual channel] and in their inter-channel delay (pulses on the two channels being either nearly simultaneous or delayed by half the period). The data showed that, for an electrode separation of 0.75 or 1.1 mm, (a) the perceived pitch was on average slightly higher for the long-delay than for the short-delay stimuli but never matched the pitch corresponding to the aggregate temporal pattern, (b) the upper limit of temporal pitch did not increase using long-delay stimuli, and (c) the pitch differences between short- and long-delay stimuli were largely insensitive to channel order and to electrode configuration. These results suggest that there may be more independence between CI channels than previously thought.