bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Unified Approach to Limits on Power Generation and Power Consumption in Thermo-Electro-Chemical Systems
Authors: Sieniutycz Stanisław
Published: February 2013

This research presents a unified approach to power limits in power producing and power consuming systems, in particular those using renewable resources. As a benchmark system which generates or consumes power, a well-known standardized arrangement is considered, in which two different reservoirs are separated by an engine or a heat pump. Either of these units is located between a resource fluid (‘upper’ fluid 1) and the environmental fluid (‘lower’ fluid, 2). Power yield or power consumption is determined in terms of conductivities, reservoir temperatures and internal irreversibility coefficient, F. While bulk temperatures Ti of reservoirs’ are the only necessary state coordinates describing purely thermal units, in chemical (electrochemical) engines, heat pumps or separators it is necessary to use both temperatures and chemical potentials mk. Methods of mathematical programming and dynamic optimization are applied to determine limits on power yield or power consumption in various energy systems, such as thermal engines, heat pumps, solar dryers, electrolysers, fuel cells, etc. Methodological similarities when treating power limits in engines, separators, and heat pumps are shown. Numerical approaches to multistage systems are based on methods of dynamic programming (DP) or on Pontryagin’s maximum principle. The first method searches for properties of optimal work and is limited to systems with low dimensionality of state vector, whereas the second investigates properties of differential (canonical) equations derived from the process Hamiltonian. A relatively unknown symmetry in behaviour of power producers (engines) and power consumers is enunciated in this paper. An approximate evaluation shows that, at least ¼ of power dissipated in the natural transfer process must be added to a separator or a heat pump in order to assure a required process rate. Applications focus on drying systems which, by nature, require a large amount of thermal or solar energy. We search for minimum power consumed in one-stage and multi-stage operation of fluidized drying. This multi-stage system is supported by heat pumps. We outline the related dynamic programming procedure, and also point out a link between the present irreversible approach and the classical problem of minimum reversible work driving the system.
Gelam Honey Protects against Gamma-Irradiation Damage to Antioxidant Enzymes in Human Diploid Fibroblasts
Authors: Ahmad Tengku , Jubri Zakiah , Rajab Nor , Rahim Khairuddin , Yusof Yasmin , Makpol Suzana
Published: February 2013

The present study was designed to determine the radioprotective effects of Malaysian Gelam honey on gene expression and enzyme activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) of human diploid fibroblasts (HDFs) subjected to gamma-irradiation. Six groups of HDFs were studied: untreated control, irradiated HDFs, Gelam honey-treated HDFs and HDF treated with Gelam honey pre-, during- and post-irradiation. HDFs were treated with 6 mg/mL of sterilized Gelam honey (w/v) for 24 h and exposed to 1 Gray (Gy) of gamma rays at the dose rate of 0.25 Gy/min. Gamma-irradiation was shown to down-regulate SOD1, SOD2, CAT and GPx1 gene expressions (p < 0.05). Conversely, HDFs treated with Gelam honey alone showed up-regulation of all genes studied. Similarly, SOD, CAT and GPx enzyme activities in HDFs decreased with gamma-irradiation and increased when cells were treated with Gelam honey (p < 0.05). Furthermore, of the three different stages of study treatment, pre-treatment with Gelam honey caused up-regulation of SOD1, SOD2 and CAT genes expression and increased the activity of SOD and CAT. As a conclusion, Gelam honey modulates the expression of antioxidant enzymes at gene and protein levels in irradiated HDFs indicating its potential as a radioprotectant agent.
An Efficient Chemoselective Reduction of Furan Series Unsaturated Dinitriles
Authors: Bobal Pavel , Bobalova Janette
Published: February 2013

An efficient reduction of double bonds conjugated with nitrile groups and acid or base sensitive furan rings with 2-phenylbenzimidazoline generated in situ has been successfully accomplished with high yields and excellent selectivity. The employed reducing agent was prepared in one step from ordinary chemicals. The other advantages of the presented method include mild and convenient reaction conditions, a benign and cost effective reagent, simple work-up and separation of the products. As this process does neither affect cyano and nitro groups nor furan rings, it is a valuable alternative when metal-catalyzed hydrogenations or borohydride reductions have failed.
Preparation of an Immunoaffinity Column with Amino-Silica Gel Microparticles and Its Application in Sample Cleanup for Aflatoxin Detection in Agri-Products
Authors: Ma Fei , Chen Ran , Li Peiwu , Zhang Qi , Zhang Wen , Hu Xiaofeng
Published: February 2013

This study established an immunoaffinity column for selective extraction of aflatoxins in agri-products. Specifically, the immunoaffinity column was developed by covalently coupling monoclonal antibody 1C11 against aflatoxins to amino-silica gel microparticles and then packing these into a cartridge. The extraction conditions were thoroughly optimized in terms of loading, washing and eluting solutions. Under the optimal conditions, the immunoaffinity column had a capacity of 200 ng of aflatoxins. The detection limits (S/N = 3) for aflatoxin G1, B1, G2 and B2 were 0.03, 0.07, 0.05 and 0.09 μg·kg−1, and the corresponding quantification limits (S/N = 10) were 0.10, 0.25, 0.18 and 0.30 μg·kg−1, respectively. The recoveries of aflatoxins in samples were 90.1%–104.4% and RSDs were <4.4%. The developed method was further applied to the determination of aflatoxins in peanut, vegetable oil and tea samples, and the results indicated that peanut (26.9%), vegetable oils (28.0%) and tea (5.3%) samples were contaminated with aflatoxins, with levels ranging from 0.49 to 20.79 μg·kg−1.
Hybrid Block Copolymers Constituted by Peptides and Synthetic Polymers: An Overview of Synthetic Approaches, Supramolecular Behavior and Potential Applications
Authors: Morell Mireia , Puiggalí Jordi
Published: February 2013

Hybrid block copolymers based on peptides and synthetic polymers, displaying different types of topologies, offer new possibilities to integrate the properties and functions of biomacromolecules and synthetic polymers in a single hybrid material. This review provides a current status report of the field concerning peptide-synthetic polymer hybrids. The first section is focused on the different synthetic approaches that have been used within the last three years for the preparation of peptide-polymer hybrids having different topologies. In the last two sections, the attractive properties, displayed in solution or in the solid state, together with the potential applications of this type of macromolecules or supramolecular systems are highlighted.
Low Copper and High Manganese Levels in Prion Protein Plaques
Authors: Johnson Christopher , Gilbert P.U.P.A. , Abrecht Mike , Baldwin Katherine , Russell Robin , Pedersen Joel , Aiken Judd , McKenzie Debbie
Published: February 2013

Accumulation of aggregates rich in an abnormally folded form of the prion protein characterize the neurodegeneration caused by transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs). The molecular triggers of plaque formation and neurodegeneration remain unknown, but analyses of TSE-infected brain homogenates and preparations enriched for abnormal prion protein suggest that reduced levels of copper and increased levels of manganese are associated with disease. The objectives of this study were to: (1) assess copper and manganese levels in healthy and TSE-infected Syrian hamster brain homogenates; (2) determine if the distribution of these metals can be mapped in TSE-infected brain tissue using X-ray photoelectron emission microscopy (X-PEEM) with synchrotron radiation; and (3) use X-PEEM to assess the relative amounts of copper and manganese in prion plaques in situ. In agreement with studies of other TSEs and species, we found reduced brain levels of copper and increased levels of manganese associated with disease in our hamster model. We also found that the in situ levels of these metals in brainstem were sufficient to image by X-PEEM. Using immunolabeled prion plaques in directly adjacent tissue sections to identify regions to image by X-PEEM, we found a statistically significant relationship of copper-manganese dysregulation in prion plaques: copper was depleted whereas manganese was enriched. These data provide evidence for prion plaques altering local transition metal distribution in the TSE-infected central nervous system.
Directional Spread of Alphaherpesviruses in the Nervous System
Authors: Kramer Tal , Enquist Lynn
Published: February 2013

Alphaherpesviruses are pathogens that invade the nervous systems of their mammalian hosts. Directional spread of infection in the nervous system is a key component of the viral lifecycle and is critical for the onset of alphaherpesvirus-related diseases. Many alphaherpesvirus infections originate at peripheral sites, such as epithelial tissues, and then enter neurons of the peripheral nervous system (PNS), where lifelong latency is established. Following reactivation from latency and assembly of new viral particles, the infection typically spreads back out towards the periphery. These spread events result in the characteristic lesions (cold sores) commonly associated with herpes simplex virus (HSV) and herpes zoster (shingles) associated with varicella zoster virus (VZV). Occasionally, the infection spreads transsynaptically from the PNS into higher order neurons of the central nervous system (CNS). Spread of infection into the CNS, while rarer in natural hosts, often results in severe consequences, including death. In this review, we discuss the viral and cellular mechanisms that govern directional spread of infection in the nervous system. We focus on the molecular events that mediate long distance directional transport of viral particles in neurons during entry and egress.
Una nueva fuente para la historia de la Sicilia islámica: un pasaje de al-Muqtabis V de Ibn Hayyān sobre la revuelta de Aḥmad b. Qarhab (300- 304/913-916)
Authors: Mandalà Giuseppe
Published: February 2013

¿Puede un detalle cambiar la historia de la Sicilia islámica? La revuelta de Ibn Qarhab es un tema bastante conocido que marca la transición política de la isla desde la esfera de influencia aglabí a la del naciente califato fātimí en el Norte de África. Sin duda, la reconstrucción de la revuelta de Ibn Qarhab se basa en un corpus tardío y repetitivo de fuentes arabo-islámicas y, sobre todo, en la interpretación irredentista y decimonónica propuesta por Michele Amari. La fuente andalusí aquí considerada, un pasaje de al-Muqtabis V de Ibn Ḥayyān, alejada tanto de las redes historiográficas antes mencionadas como de la atención de la investigación actual, brinda la posibilidad de aclarar algunos detalles y proporcionar nuevas lecturas del acontecimiento. La revuelta de Ibn Qarhab puede ser interpretada como una búsqueda informal de legitimidad dictada por alianzas y contingencias; de forma inesperada estas últimas habrían podido desplazar el baricentro de la isla desde la vecina orilla norteafricana a la órbita de influencia del emirato omeya de al-Andalus.
¿A dónde fueron los conversos al Islam? Dificultades en el estudio de la conversión al Islam en al-Andalus
Authors: Wasserstein David J.
Published: February 2013

Este trabajo discute una reciente propuesta para identificar a conversos al Islam en al- Andalus basada en su onomástica tal y como ésta se conserva en los diccionarios biográficos árabes del medievo. Se propone demostrar que esta propuesta no es viable en la práctica y, como consecuencia de ello, que no se puede identificar a tales conversos de forma que puedan someterse a un análisis estadístico.
Ŷarba y los límites del poder rustamí. La comunidad ibāḍí de Ŷarba bajo los imāmes rustamíes de Tāhert (779-909 d.C.)
Authors: Love, Jr. Paul M.
Published: February 2013

Este ensayo analiza las fuentes de origen medieval y moderno sobre la historia de Ŷarba en el Imāmato rustamí en un intento de aclarar la naturaleza de la relación histórica e historiográfica entre ellos. Se empieza por discutir las fuentes primarias y secundarias disponibles, incluyendo los retos historiográficos que plantean y se presenta a continuación un análisis de las evidencias textuales y arqueológicas que conectan a los rustamíes con Ŷarba. Se intenta después sintetizar las piezas dispersas de la evidencia disponible en el registro histórico con el fin de presentar una imagen más clara de Ŷarba durante el período rustamí. Con base en esta evidencia textual y arqueológica, se argumentará que Ŷarba era hogar de una comunidad ibādí independiente del gobierno en Tāhert durante la mayor parte (si no en su totalidad) de la existencia del Imāmato, distinguiendo así la isla de los alrededores del Ŷarid (en el sur de Túnez), partes de la Ifrīqiya Aglabí y el Ŷabal Nafūsa. Se muestra por último que la evidencia sugiere que esta independencia no era solamente política, sino religiosa.
Le rôle des émigrés orientaux à Constantinople et dans l’Empire (634-843): acquis et perspectives
Authors: Auzépy Marie France
Published: February 2013

[fr] Cet article est une tentative pour mesurer les conséquences démographiques, pour l’Empire, de la perte des provinces orientales du fait de la conquête musulmane. Les sources, surtout les sources grecques, sont rares et donnent seulement quelques informations ponctuelles sur les transferts forcés de population, sur quelques individus quittant le califat et rejoignant l’Empire à dessein et enfin sur la destinée de quelques renégats. Comme d’habitude à cette époque, en raison du quasi monopole des sources ecclésiastiques, les renseignements sont plus nombreux sur le clergé et le flot ininterrompu d’exilés depuis l’Anastasis à Jérusalem jusqu’à Constantinople et Sainte-Sophie.
La afrenta de Corpes y la autoría árabe del Cantar de Mio Cid
Authors: Fierro Maribel
Published: February 2013

No disponible
Melquitas y musulmanes: el Corán, cristología y ortodoxia árabe
Authors: Griffith Sidney H.
Published: February 2013

Durante la expansión del Islam por Oriente Medio, los primeros autores calcedonianos que tuvieron conocimiento de las ideas religiosas que los invasores árabes traían, pusieron de relieve ciertas nociones que ellos entendían como confusas o negativas sobre Cristo. A mediados del siglo VIII, los araboparlantes calcedonianos de Siria-Palestina (que pronto serían denominados «Melquitas» por sus adversarios), comenzaron a citar el Corán con la intención de explotar el potencial probatorio de la lengua para propósitos apologéticos, especialmente en Cristología. Este artículo rastrea ese enfoque en la Cristología y el Corán, que se mantiene de forma continuada en el desarrollo de la teología calcedoniana en lengua árabe, en los trabajos de los más importantes autores de la tradición melquita temprana. Este análisis nos hace pensar que ese «combate» de la comunidad melquita como reacción al desafío religioso del Islam, con el paso del tiempo, hace necesaria una ortodoxia árabe-cristiana reconocible que vendría a ser designada con el término Melquita
Algunas observaciones sobre la atribución de autoría árabe del Cantar de mio Cid
Authors: Monroe James T.
Published: February 2013

No disponible
Tierra Santa, tierras perdidas, Realpolitik. La visión del Imperio Bizantino sobre Siria y Palestina a finales del siglo X y el siglo XI
Authors: Shepard Jonathan
Published: February 2013

Este estudio pasa revista a la política oficial del estado bizantino con respecto a la región situada entre Antioquía y el Monte Sinaí, haciendo énfasis en la prudencia adoptada por lo general en la estrategia imperial así como, a partir de finales del siglo X, en la voluntad del gobierno a favor de una coexistencia pacífica con el califato fatimí y el respeto a las relaciones comerciales. La destrucción de la iglesia del Santo Sepulcro por el califa al- Ḥākim en 1009 no alteró este estado de cosas, en el que la piedra angular de la política de contención entre el Cairo y Constantinopla estaba representada por la ciudad de Alepo, y no por Jerusalén. Incluso en esta, los dos poderes estaban inclinados a dejar la iniciativa a los partidos locales, más que en reivindicar el control directo. Las comunicaciones entre los territorios gobernados por musulmanes o bizantinos fueron así por lo general bastante regulares. Durante el parón relativo que experimentaron en la primera mitad del siglo XI, los peregrinajes a tierra santa aumentaron, y puede haber sido esencialmente para impresionar a los peregrinos (tanto los procedentes de Bizancio como, especialmente, aquellos que viajaban desde el Occidente cristiano) por lo que los emperadores invirtieron abundantes recursos en la reconstrucción de la iglesia del Santo Sepulcro entre las décadas de 1030- 1040. La intervención militar a favor de las poblaciones cristianas de Siria meridional y Palestina no estaba en su agenda. Estas conclusiones se obtienen a partir del cotejo de evidencias diversas, que eran ya bien conocidas por separado, pero que raramente habían sido contrastadas en conjunto. El estudio resalta el valor del comercio para los fatimíes y los bizantinos a la vez, la veneración por los Santos Lugares entre los bizantinos y occidentales, así como el deseo del emperador de hacer patente su preocupación por el Santo Sepulcro sin poner en riesgo sus relaciones con los fatimíes.
Integrating Remote Labs into Personal Learning Environments - Experiential Learning with Tele-operated Experiments and E-portfolios
Authors: Terkowsky Claudius , May Dominik , Haertel Tobias , Pleul Christian
Published: February 2013

The use of laboratories in Higher Engineering Education is an adequate opportunity to implement forms of experiential learning like problem-based or research-based learning into manufacturing technology. The introduction of remote laboratories gives students the opportunity to do self-directed research and by that having their own and unique learning experiences. Recently finished research projects, e.g. the PeTEX project, implemented research-based learning by deploying real laboratory equipment without being physically in the laboratory but by accessing it via the Internet. One essential question in this context is on the one hand how the student can document his/her own learning processes and how the teacher can guide the student through these processes on the other hand. The proposed solution in this paper is a personal learning environment that integrates a remote lab and an e-portfolio system. E-portfolios enable the student to individually and collectively document and reflect what he/she has been doing and to share his/her outcomes with others. The paper outlines the important role that e-portfolios can play as personal learning environments to experience remote laboratory work and to foster creative attitudes.
Preparing and Managing the Remote Experiment in Education
Authors: Kozík Tomáš , Šimon Marek
Published: February 2013

Remote laboratories have become a real fact in recent years not only at technical universities, but also at lower educational levels. The use of such technology in education is not associated only with the advantages. The attention of pedagogical research is necessary to focus also to some specific problems, pitfalls and risks that occur as a side effect. The development and operation of remote laboratories requires certain resources. Some experiments are able to run fully automatically, others require constant human interference on the spot. What has been overlooked the developers and users of remote experiments was the question how to manage the long-term operation, reliability and innovation of the remote real experiments installed at remote laboratories. In remote experiments, students, consciously or unconsciously, are trying the limit parameters of the experiment. Although such behaviour is important in terms of education, safety of the facilities must be taken into account.
Expanding Usability of Virtual Network Laboratory in IT Engineering Education
Authors: Dobrilovic Dalibor M , Jevtic Vesna Z , Odadzic Borislav
Published: February 2013

This paper deals with importance of virtual network laboratories usage in IT engineering education. It presents the particular virtual network laboratory model developed for usage in Computer Networks course as well. This virtual network laboratory, called VNLab, is based on virtualization technology. It has been successfully tested in educational process of Computer Network course for IT undergraduate students. Its usability for network related courses is analyzed by comparison of recommended curriculaâ??s of world organizations such as IEEE, ACM and AIS. This paper is focused on expanding the usability of this virtual network laboratory to other non-network related courses. The primary expansion field is in domain of IT System Administration, IT Systems and Data Security and Operating Systems as well. The possible learning scenarios, learning tools and concepts for making this system applicable in these three additional fields are presented by the analyses of compatibility with recommended learning topics and outcomes by IEEE, ACM and AIS.
Learning About Hydroelectric Power Plants Using a Model and Utilising a Game Scenario
Authors: Graven Olaf Hallan , Samuelsen Dag Andreas Hals
Published: February 2013

The system described in this paper is focused on the challenge of engaging and motivating pupils in secondary schools and further education for STEM education in general, and demonstration of how energy conversion is done in hydroelectric power plants in particular. The method selected in order to engage and motivate the user is a games based approach. The implementation created to encourage the pupils to use the system and not only be passive viewers of a demonstration of the principles involved. The paper describes the design and implementation of the system. The system has been used by multiple groups of pupils over a period of two years.
Nonlinear Control Systems E-learning Course Support
Authors: Tapak Peter
Published: February 2013

The paper presents the course on nonlinear control systems created in cooperation of the Institute of Control and Industrial Informatics of the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology of the Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava with the Institute PRT/MI, Fernuniversitat in Hagen. The differences in real experiments utilization in the course considering distance and regular education are discussed.
Male-to-Female Sex Ratios of Abnormalities Detected by Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization in a Population of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Patients
Authors: Cantú Eduardo S. , McGill John R. , Stephenson Christine F. , Hoffmann Heidi M. , Tang Lihua , Yan Jim , Glassman Armand B.
Published: February 2013

Distorted sex ratios occur in hematologic disorders. For example, chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) displays disproportionate sex ratios with a large male excess. However, the underlying genetics for these disparities are poorly understood, and gender differences for specific cytogenetic abnormalities have not been carefully investigated. We sought to provide an initial characterization of gender representation in genetic abnormalities in CLL by using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). We confirm the well known skewed male-to-female (M/F sex ratio) of ~1.5 in our CLL study population, but also determine the genotypic M/F sex ratio values corresponding to specific FISH DNA probes. Genetic changes in CLL detectable by four FISH probes were statistically compared with respect to gender. Initial FISH evaluations of 4698 CLL patients were retrospectively examined and new findings of the genotypic M/F sex ratios for these probes are reported. This study represents the largest CLL survey conducted in the United States using FISH probes. The CLL database demonstrated that FISH abnormalities (trisomy 12, 13q14.3 deletion and 17p13.1 deletion) probes had skewed M/F ratios of ~1.5. Also, by statistical analysis it was shown that ATM gene loss (11q22.3q23.1 deletion) solely or with other abnormalities was considerably higher in males with an M/F ratio of 2.5 and significantly different from M/F ratios of 1.0 or 1.5. We hypothesize that interactions involving these autosomal abnormalities (trisomy 12, and deletions of 11q22.3, 13q14.3, and 17p13.1), and the sex chromosomes may provide the genetic basis for the altered phenotypic M/F ratio in CLL.
Violence in childhood-onset schizophrenia
Authors: Ross Randal G. , Maximon Julia , Kusumi Jonathan , Lurie Susan
Published: February 2013

Violence is elevated in older adolescents and adults with schizophrenia; however, little is known about younger children. This report focuses on rates of violence in younger children with schizophrenic-spectrum illnesses. A retrospective review of structured diagnostic interviews from a case series of 81 children, ages 4-15 years of age, with childhood onset of schizophrenic-spectrum illness is reported. Seventy-two percent of children had a history of violent behavior, including 25 children (31%) with a history of severe violence. Of those with a history of violence, 60% had a least one episode of violence that did not appear to be in response to an external stimulus (internally driven violence). There was no significant impact of age or gender. For many children, these internally driven violent episodes were rare and unpredictable, but severe. Similar to what is found in adolescents and adults, violence is common in children with schizophrenic-spectrum illnesses. General violence prevention strategies combined with early identification and treatment of childhood psychotic illnesses may decrease the morbidity associated with childhood psychotic violence.
The making and prevention of rain amongst the Pedi tribe of South Africa: A pastoral response
Authors: Semenya David K.
Published: February 2013

This article attempted to respond pastorally to the rainmaking and rain prevention rituals which are practised among the Pedi tribes – also called the Northern-Sotho speaking nation of South Africa. The rituals of rainmaking and rain prevention have been practised among the Pedi for a long time – these rituals are in fact still being practised in some of the villages in and around the Limpopo Province. The rituals are practised in time of drought and also during activities such as weddings or traditional gatherings, this is normally called molato. When the village is experiencing drought, community members, upon instruction from the chief of the village, stage a rain ritual and the moroka [rain making traditional doctor] would take the lead in performing such rituals. Families would also perform rain prevention rituals when a gathering or a wedding is being organised to ensure that the rain does not disturb the gathering and everything goes as planned. Thus the purpose of rainfall rituals is to influence the weather conditions in order to cause rain or drought either for good or for destruction. The mentioned rituals and selected scriptural passages were discussed. This article presented the biblical view of rain and conclusion principles were formulated to understand the Bible’s perspective on the mentioned rituals. These conclusions were used for the formulation of practical guidelines.
Symplectic Foliations and Generalized Complex Structures
Authors: Bailey Michael
Published: February 2013

We answer the natural question: when is a transversely holomorphic symplectic foliation induced by a generalized complex structure? The leafwise symplectic form and transverse complex structure determine an obstruction class in a certain cohomology, which vanishes if and only if our question has an affirmative answer. We first study a component of this obstruction, which gives the condition that the leafwise cohomology class of the symplectic form must be transversely pluriharmonic. As a consequence, under certain topological hypotheses, we infer that we actually have a symplectic fibre bundle over a complex base. We then show how to compute the full obstruction via a spectral sequence. We give various concrete necessary and sufficient conditions for the vanishing of the obstruction. Throughout, we give examples to test the sharpness of these conditions, including a symplectic fibre bundle over a complex base that does not come from a generalized complex structure, and a regular generalized complex structure that is very unlike a symplectic fibre bundle, i.e., for which nearby leaves are not symplectomorphic.
Does the Transtheoretical Model of Behavior Change Provide a Useful Basis for Interventions to Promote Fruit and Vegetable Consumption?
Authors: Horwath Caroline C. , Schembre Susan M. , Motl Robert W. , Dishman Rod K. , Nigg Claudio R.
Published: February 2013

Purpose.

To determine whether Transtheoretical Model (TTM) constructs differ between individuals making successful versus unsuccessful stage transitions for consumption of five or more servings of fruit and vegetables each day and thus provide a useful basis for designing health promotion interventions.

Design.

Longitudinal, observational study. A randomly selected, multiethnic cohort of adults assessed at 6-month intervals over 2 years.

Setting.

General community, Hawaii.

Subjects.

There were 700 participants (62.6% female; mean = 47 ± 17.1 years; 31.1% Asian, 22.1% Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander, 35.0% Caucasian; 25.1% participation rate).

Measures.

Stage of readiness, experiential and behavioral processes of change, pros, cons, self-efficacy, and self-reported fruit and vegetable consumption.

Analysis.

The study used t-tests to determine which TTM variable scores differed consistently between those making “successful” versus “unsuccessful” stage transitions from precontemplation, preparation, and maintenance. Sample sizes for contemplation and action prohibited similar analyses.

Results.

Compared to those remaining in precontemplation, individuals successfully progressing from precontemplation showed significantly greater use of behavioral processes (collectively and self-liberation) and consciousness raising (p < .001). However, only self-liberation demonstrated significant differences consistently over time.

Conclusion.

This longitudinal investigation reveals that TTM behavioral processes, particularly self-liberation, predict successful transition out of precontemplation for adult fruit and vegetable consumption, suggesting that public health messages tailored according to these TTM variables may be effective for this group. However, for adults prepared to adopt or maintain fruit and vegetable consumption, tailoring based on variables from other theories is needed.
Racial/Ethnic Differences in Cancer Prevention Beliefs: Applying the Health Belief Model Framework
Authors: Davis Jenna L. , Buchanan Kyrel L. , Green B. Lee
Published: February 2013

Purpose.

An understanding of each racial/ethnic group's beliefs about cancer prevention is important for designing/implementing interventions to reduce cancer-health disparities. The Health Belief Model was used to examine racial/ethnic differences in beliefs about cancer and cancer prevention.

Design.

The data were from the 2007 Health Information National Trends Survey, a biennial, cross-sectional survey using a random-digit-dial telephone frame and a mailing address frame.

Setting.

A weighted, nationally representative sample of American adults.

Subjects.

The sample consisted of 7452 individuals.

Measures.

Model construct variables (perceived susceptibility; perceived severity; perceived benefits; perceived barriers; cues to action; self-efficacy) and race/ethnicity were assessed.

Analysis.

The Rao-Scott χ2 test and multivariate logistic regression assessed racial/ethnic differences.

Results.

The constructs self-efficacy, perceived benefits, and perceived susceptibility were significantly associated with race/ethnicity. The remaining three constructs were not statistically significant. Multivariate analysis revealed Hispanics were less likely to believe they could lower their chances of getting cancer than did African-Americans and whites. Hispanics, Asians, and African-Americans were more likely to believe they had a lower chance of getting cancer in the future than did whites.

Conclusion.

Culturally relevant health education/promotion interventions need to be developed and tailored to (1) empower Hispanics regarding their ability to prevent cancer and (2) educate racial/ethnic minorities about their susceptibility and risk perception for cancer.
Health and Eating Behavior Differs between Lean/Normal and Overweight/Obese Low-Income Women Living in Food-Insecure Environments
Authors: Dressler Heidi , Smith Chery
Published: February 2013

Purpose.

To explore differences and similarities in environmental, personal, and behavioral factors influencing eating behavior among low-income women of varying weight status.

Design.

Focus groups (n = 16) were used to collect qualitative data. Quantitative data collected included demographic, lifestyle, and anthropometric (heights and weights).

Setting.

Community centers, libraries, and homeless shelters in low-income neighborhoods.

Participants.

Of the 83 participants, 58% were African-American, 28% were white, and the remainder were American Indian, Hispanic, or mixed race. A total of 35% of participants were lean/normal (body mass index < 25 kg/m2) and 65% were overweight/obese (body mass index > 25 kg/m2).

Method.

Focus group methodology was used to collect data on 83 participants. Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) provided the theoretical basis. Transcripts were analyzed using the open-coding method and comments between lean/normal and overweight/obese women were systematically compared.

Results.

Focus group themes were food environment, aberrant eating behavior, health values, and beliefs. Differences in personal and behavioral factors were apparent between overweight/obese and lean/normal women, with the former group frequently discussing emotional eating, overeating, and stashing food, and the latter group communicating greater nutrition knowledge and describing regular physical activity. Both groups similarly expressed experiences with food insecurity and lived in low-income environments.

Conclusion.

For low-income women, personal and behavioral factors may modify the influence of their obesogenic food environment. Further research within the context of SCT should examine differences between lean/normal and overweight/obese women living in the same environment.
Associations of Perceived Neighborhood Physical and Social Environments with Physical Activity and Television Viewing in African-American Men and Women
Authors: Strong Larkin L. , Reitzel Lorraine R. , Wetter David W. , McNeill Lorna H.
Published: February 2013

Purpose.

Few studies have assessed how attributes of neighborhood environments contribute to sedentary, in addition to active, behaviors. This study investigated associations of perceived social and physical aspects of neighborhood environments with television (TV) viewing and physical activity (PA) in African-American adults.

Design.

Cross-sectional analysis of self-reported survey.

Setting.

Large mega-church in Houston, Texas.

Subjects.

A total of 1374 African-American men and women.

Measures.

Outcomes included log-transformed daily TV viewing and participation in medium/high levels of PA, measured by the short version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Neighborhood perceptions were assessed with the Social Cohesion and Trust and the Neighborhood Problems scales.

Analysis.

Multivariable models that controlled for clustering within neighborhoods.

Results.

Reporting more neighborhood problems was significantly associated with greater log-transformed TV viewing in women (β = .017, SE = .006, p = .003), and social cohesion was positively associated with PA in women (odds ratio = 1.06, 95% confidence interval = 1.02, 1.11, p = .006). Concerns about litter and walking after dark and a lack of places to shop were associated with increased TV viewing among women, and concerns about traffic and walking after dark were associated with reduced PA among men.

Conclusion.

Physical and social neighborhood conditions were associated with TV viewing and PA, particularly in women. Neighborhood-based strategies to reduce sedentary behaviors and enhance PA should include attention to social as well as physical aspects of neighborhood environments.
Chemical Cleaning of Equipment In Refineries and Petrochemical Plants
Authors: KLINGE LAMBERT N. , SELMAN JOHAN
Published: February 2013

Discusses advantages of chemical cleaning in refineries and petrochemical plants over mechanical methods. Describes steps necessary in analyzing deposits to be removed, chemical agents used in cleaning, effects of these agents on construction materials and cleaning of equipment in situ. Includes cleaning of columns, coolers, condensers, heat exchangers, boilers and drums. Also includes discussion of potential corrosion difficulties encountered in chemical cleaning. Describes auxiliary equipment needed. Bibliography of 258 items on chemical cleaning and related subjects is given. 5.9.2
Lubricating Oil Contamination Drawback in Coal Burning Diesel
Authors: Marshall H. P. , Shelton Carl
Published: February 2013

Investigation is described to determine whether or not pulverized coal with low ash content will burn in the cylinder of a Diesel engine and what effects it would have on engine performance, operation and wear. 7.1
Corrosion by Urban Cooling Waters
Authors: SUSSMAN SIDNEY
Published: February 2013

Untreated recirculating cooling waters are likely to become corrosive when low alkalinity waters are present in an area where there is a relatively high sulfur dioxide air content. Untreated circulating cooling waters are compared with makeup waters for eight Eastern cities for such factors as pH, alkalinity, chloride content, sulfate/chloride ratio, and corrosion products. New York City water is discussed specifically. Corrosion can be mitigated by alkaline pH adjustment with maintenance of satisfactory chromate concentrations. 4.6.4
Cooling Water Inhibitor Performance
Authors: PUCKORIUS P. R. , RYZNER W. J.
Published: February 2013

Corrosion inhibitors in open recirculating cooling water systems require rapid and complete film formation for maximum effectiveness. The protective film is established on clean surfaces by initial treatment with inhibitor at high dosage levels. Protection then can be maintained by continuous treatment at substantially lower levels. If operational difficulties should cause loss of the protective film, low level treatment after the film has been lost may result in severely increased corrosion and deposition.

Laboratory corrosion, deposition and consumption studies with polyphosphate-based and chromate-based inhibitors illustrate the advantages of high level start-up and low level maintenance treatments. These data are confirmed by actual field experiences. 5.8.1
Zinc as a Self-Regulating Galvanic Anode For Ship Hulls
Authors: CARSON J. A. H.
Published: February 2013

This report presents results of service trials of up to three years duration for high purity and alloyed zinc hull anodes. The trials demonstrated that zinc anodes of suitable composition are capable of providing complete cathodic protection for ship hulls for extended periods in sea water. The current output of alloyed anodes (0.3% aluminum or 0.1% aluminum + 0.05% cadmium) is reliable and predictable because these materials do not polarize with time.

Zinc hull anodes of suitable design can have useful current outputs for periods of eight to ten years in sea water. Bolting is a satisfactory method of fastening zinc anodes to a ship's hull. Zinc anodes cause little or no accelerated break-down of the adjacent hull paint.

The two outstanding advantages of the zinc anode systems namely, self-regulation and improved current distribution, are available at a competitive price. Compared to the cheapest of the controlled type systems, whether of the galvanic or impressed voltage type, the zinc anode system at 13 cents per sq. ft. per year costs: (a) slightly more for large wetted hull areas of around 50,000 sq. ft., (b) slightly less for hull areas of around 15,000 sq. ft. and (c) markedly less for smaller hull areas.

Recommendations are made for: (1) The more widespread use of zinc anodes for cathodic protection systems both on and in ships. (2) The use of high purity (ASTM Special High Grade) zinc alloyed with either aluminum, or aluminum plus cadmium, as the standard zinc anode material for all sea water applications. 5.2.2
Applying Reinforced Plastics in Corrosive Environments of the Process Industry
Authors: Arndt Fred W.
Published: February 2013

Design considerations for applying reinforced plastic materials of construction to corrosive service in the process industries are reviewed from an over-all standpoint. Considerations affecting the basic design, such as material selection and fabrication techniques, are related to mechanical or structural characteristics. Factors concerning the application, such as strength required for normal service, mechanical abuse, thermal conditions and chemical attack are discussed. Design must also include considerations for installation, anticipated service life and variations in values caused by random production influences. Each of these items are related to case histories, and examples for employing these values to conventional design techniques are presented. 5.11
Tetrafluoroethylene-Lined Pipe Has Lower Installed Cost Than Other High Temperature Piping
Authors: Thierry T. R.
Published: February 2013

Discusses reduced installation costs of tetrafluoroethylene lined steel piping in comparison with glass lined pipe and alloy piping. Describes how this TFE-lined pipe is made and gives recent case histories of installations.5.4.3
High Temperature Corrosion in Refinery And Petrochemical Service
Authors: SKINNER E. N. , MASON J. F. , MORAN J. J.
Published: February 2013

The paper is concerned with the corrosion phenomena likely to influence the selection of materials for refinery service at elevated temperatures. The problems of oxidation, sulfidation and carburization are discussed in detail and consideration is given to the effects of condensate corrosion and residual oil ash corrosion. The contributions of various alloying elements in the common engineering alloys to their physical and mechanical behavior as well as to their corrosion resistance at elevated temperatures are discussed. Basic considerations for the selection of suitable alloys to withstand high temperature corrosive environments are outlined. 8.4.3
Rapid Pitting Corrosion on Gas Scrubber
Authors: Firestone J. T.
Published: February 2013

Rapid pitting attack on stainless steel gas scrubber is described. Attack was evident in only three weeks of operation from salt accumulation on areas not washed down by water showers. Describes internal equipment and flow process of gas through scrubber. Discusses investigation for cause of corrosion and exposure tests of materials to determine suitable construction materials to solve corrosion problem. Lists materials tested. Also describes corrosive attack on internal braces. Conclusion gives five design factors that should be realized for scrubber fabrication. 3.2.2
Corrosion Testing of Two Zirconium Alloys
Authors: KASS STANLEY
Published: February 2013

Some of the external factors influencing the high temperature water and steam corrosion properties of two zirconium alloys have been investigated. These studies coupled with eight years of extensive corrosion testing of samples and reactor components have shown that surface preparation and the manner in which the corrosion test is performed greatly influences the resultant corrosion behavior. Cleaning, pickling, and linsing of the metal surfaces, autoclave preparation, operation and cleanliness are described. Proper fixturing for the pickling and pressurized water testing are detailed.
The Oxidation and Corrosion of Zirconium and Its Alloys
Authors: COX B.
Published: February 2013

The breakdown of the oxide films, formed on carbon melted zirconium and Zircaloy-2 has been studied using optical and electron microscopes. The nature of the break away process is illustrated and an explanation is offered for the effect of tin, iron, chromium and nickel alloying additions on corrosion resistance of carbon melted zirconium. 3.2.3
Oxidation Behavior and Protection Of Refractory Metals
Authors: SIMS CHESTER T.
Published: February 2013

Relative oxidation behavior and degree to which oxide properties affect the oxidation resistance of columbium, tantalum, molybdenum, tungsten and rhenium are presented. Recent work in development of oxidation-resistant columbium and tantalum alloys is reviewed and the current status of protection of molybdenum by cladding and coating discussed. 6.5
Cathodic Protection of Hulls And Related Parts
Authors:   A Report of NACE Task Group T-3G-1 On Cathodic Protection of Hull Bottoms of Ships
Published: February 2013

A summary is made of information known about cathodic protection of ship hulls and related parts. Problems involved in the cathodic protection of hulls are outlined and factors which influence protective current requirements are given. Data reported include protective potentials of steel hulls measured against four reference electrodes, advantages and disadvantages of the sacrificial anode vs the impressed current anode, and properties of magnesium, zinc and aluminum galvanic anodes. 5.2.1
Effect of Cold Drawing On Hydrogen Behavior in Steel
Authors: HUDSON R. M. , STRAGAND G. L
Published: February 2013

Hydrogen absorption by and the desorption rate of hydrogen from steel were studied as a function of cold work from 0 to 55.4 percent reduction using cold-drawn capped and killed SAE 1020 steel. Increased cold work increased the hydrogen solubility in these steels. Hydrogen desorption rate increased with increasing cold work until a maximum was reached at some point below 30.5 percent reduction. With further reduction, the desorption rate decreased. 3.7.3
Microbiology in Secondary Recovery Systems
Authors: WOLFSON L. L.
Published: February 2013

A general discussion is given of the role of microorganisms in secondary recovery systems, including the interrelationship of the organisms with chemical scale and corrosion. Specific types of microorganisms discussed include iron bacteria, algae and fungi, slime formers, and corrosive (sulfate reducing) bacteria.

The life cycles and nutritional requirements of the organisms are discussed, with emphasis on the effects of the different types of bacteria on each other. A genus of organisms, capable of hydrogen sulfide production, and previously not implicated in secondary recovery problems, is presented and described. 3.3.4
Salt Refinery Corrosion Caused By Varying Evaporator Conditions
Authors: Turnbull John M.
Published: February 2013

Effect of temperature and different operating conditions in multi-effect sodium chloride evaporators on various metals is noted. A comparison between an essentially neutral brine and a highly alkaline brine indicates that large differences in corrosion can be expected between the different pH conditions. Some of the different corrosion effects that can be expected of Monel, copper alloys, stainless steels, and other metals are listed with the corrosion rates achieved an a series of tests. 4.6.10
University Course on Corrosion Emphasizes Basic Principles
Authors: Smeltzer W. W.
Published: February 2013

Outline curriculum of a course on corrosion principles offered at McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. Course demonstrates chemical and metallurgical properties of materials in corrosive atmospheres. Course is offered by Department of Metallurgy and Metallurgical Engineering to undergraduate students in their senior year. Lists curriculum out-line for metal oxidation and aqueous corrosion. Five experiments are described that are used to demonstrate physiochemical and metallurgical factors of corrosion and corrosion control. 1.7.3