bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Plant Polyphenols on Adipokine Secretion from Human SGBS Adipocytes
Authors: Derdemezis Christos S. , Kiortsis Dimitrios N. , Tsimihodimos Vasilis , Petraki Maria P. , Vezyraki Patra , Elisaf Moses S. , Tselepis Alexandros D.
Published: September 2011

Introduction. Adipose tissue contributes to atherosclerosis with mechanisms related to adipokine secretion. Polyphenols may exhibit antiatherogenic properties. The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of three polyphenols, namely, quercetin, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), and resveratrol on adipokine secretion from cultured human adipocytes.Methods. Human SGBS adipocytes were treated with quercetin, EGCG, and resveratrol for 24 and 48 hours. Visfatin, leptin, and adiponectin were measured in the supernatant.Results. Visfatin secretion was inhibited by quercetin 10 μM by 16% and 24% at 24 and 48 hours respectively. The corresponding changes for quercetin 25 μM were 47% and 48%. Resveratrol 25 μM reduced visfatin by 28% and 38% at 24 and 48 hours. EGCG did not have an effect on visfatin. None of tested polyphenols influenced leptin and adiponectin secretion.Conclusion. Quercetin and resveratrol significantly decreased visfatin secretion from SGBS adipocytes. This effect may contribute to their overall antiatherogenic properties.
Non-Supersymmetric CS-Matter Theories with Known AdS Duals
Authors: Forcella Davide , Zaffaroni Alberto
Published: September 2011

We consider three-dimensional conformal field theories living on a stack ofNanti-M2 branes at the tip of eight-dimensional supersymmetric cones. The corresponding supergravity solution is obtained by changing sign to the four-form in the Freund-Rubin solution representing M2 branes (“skew-whiffing” transformation) and it is known to be stable. The existence of these non-supersymmetric, stable field theories, at least in the largeNlimit, is a peculiarity of theAdS4/CFT3correspondence with respect to the usualAdS5/CFT4, and it is worthwhile to study it. We analyze in detail the KK spectrum of the skew-whiffed solution associated withS7/ℤkand we speculate on the natural field content for a candidate non-supersymmetric dual field theory.
An Incidentaloma: Primitive Neuroectodermal Tumor of the Thymus
Authors: Smith Suzanne M. , Berniker Abigail , Iorfido Stephen B.
Published: September 2011

After presenting for a routine screening exam, and 57-year-old man was diagnosed with an incidentaloma—a primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PNET) of the thymus. A member of the Ewing sarcoma family of tumors, a PNET is typically regarded as a malignancy of childhood and adolescence, usually occurring in the central nervous system. In the case at hand, our patient had an extremely unusual presentation, given his age and tumor location. Initial presentation is the only predictor for long-term survival. Current treatment recommendations advocate complete surgical resection whenever possible, radiation therapy, and adjuvant versus neoadjuvant chemotherapy.
Preparation of Crystalline Sn-Doped TiO2and Its Application in Visible-Light Photocatalysis
Authors: Xiufeng Zhou , Juan Lu , Lianghai Li , Zuoshan Wang
Published: September 2011

Sn-doped TiO2nanoparticles were prepared by the vapor transport method of water molecules and characterized by XRD and XPS analyses. The TEM images indicated that as-prepared samples were highly dispersed nanoparticles with a small and uniform size below 20 nm, as it would effectively control the rate of hydrolysis of Ti4+by adjusting the flow speed of water vapor. Meanwhile, the photocatalytic properties of Sn-doped TiO2were tested, and the results showed that doping an appropriate amount of Tin would improve the photocatalytic activity of TiO2by enhancing the separation rate of photogenerated electrons and holes on the surface of TiO2. In addition, the calcination temperature and Tin content had an important influence on the photocatalytic activity of TiO2. When the mix ratio of Sn:Ti reached 1%, and the nano-Sn-TiO2sample was calcined at , it showed the best photocatalytic activity.
Antichlamydial Antibodies, Human Fertility, and Pregnancy Wastage
Authors: Stephens Amanda J. , Aubuchon Mira , Schust Danny J.
Published: September 2011

Genital infections withChlamydia trachomatis (C. trachomatis)continue to be a worldwide epidemic. Immune response to chlamydia is important to both clearance of the disease and disease pathogenesis. Interindividual responses and current chlamydial control programs will have enormous effects on this disease and its control strategies. Humoral immune response toC. trachomatisoccurs in humans and persistent antibody levels appear to be most directly correlated with more severe and longstanding disease and with reinfection. There is a close correlation between the presence of antichlamydial antibodies in females and tubal factor infertility; the closest associations have been found for antibodies against chlamydial heat shock proteins. The latter antibodies have also been shown to be useful among infertile patients with prior ectopic pregnancy, and their presence has been correlated with poor IVF outcomes, including early pregnancy loss. We review the existing literature on chlamydial antibody testing in infertile patients and present an algorithm for such testing in the infertile couple.
Myelodysplastic Syndrome and Autoimmunity: A Case Report of an Unusual Presentation of Myelodysplastic Syndrome
Authors: Merrill Andrea L. , Smith Hedy
Published: September 2011

Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) commonly presents asymptomatically or with symptomatic cytopenias. However, autoimmune phenomena in association with MDS have been well described in several case reports and case series. Typically, these autoimmune phenomena take the form of vasculitides, arthritis, connective tissue diseases, pulmonary infiltrates, or polymyalgia rheumatica. We present the case of a woman with MDS (karyotype 46,XX,+1,der(1;7)(q10;p10)[20], that evolved with an additional trisomy 8 clone) and a novel spectrum of autoimmune diseases including acute fibrinous and organizing pneumonia (AFOP) and lacrimal gland pseudotumor.
Molecular Self‐Assembling of N‐Methylacetamide in Solvents
Authors: Minami Hideyuki , Iwahashi Makio
Published: September 2011

The self‐association of N‐methylacetamide (NMA), which is one of the most simple compound having a peptide bond, in various solvents such as carbon tetrachloride (CCl4), chloroform, dichloromethane, and acetonitrile was studied through the near‐infrared (NIR) spectroscopic observation at various temperatures and concentrations. An analysis assuming a successive association processes for the NMA molecules was applied to the sharp 1470‐nm band (the first‐overtone band of NH stretching vibration mode attributed to free NH group of NMA monomer and partly to the free, terminal NH group of NMA aggregate); the mean association number for NMA in CCl4 increases with increasing concentration and decreases with increasing temperature. Comparisons of the association number of NMA in various solvents indicate that the degree of association is in the following order: CCl4≫ chloroform ≒ dichloromethane > acetonitrile. Interestingly, the association number of NMA in CCl4 is thought to be larger than that in its pure liquid.
Imaging of a Case of Extramedullary Solitary Plasmacytoma of the Trachea
Authors: Garelli M. , Righini C. , Faure C. , Jankowski A. , Brambilla C. , Ferretti G. R.
Published: September 2011

We describe a case of extramedullary tracheal plasmacytoma that was incidentally discovered in a 73-year-old man on a PET scan performed for assessing the extent of colon cancer. CT scan showed the tumor; multiplanar reformation coupled with virtual bronchoscopy allowed proper treatment planning. The tracheal tumor was resected during rigid bronchoscopy. Relevant investigations excluded multiple myeloma. Follow-up CT showed persistent thickening of the tracheal wall, but there has been no recurrence after one-year followup.
Optimal Power Management of a DISCO with Integrations of Reliability Considerations and Wind Farm Based on Benders Decomposition
Authors: Baghdadi M. , Mortazavi S. S. , Saidian A.
Published: September 2011

This paper presents a comprehensive framework model of a distribution company with security and reliability considerations. A probabilistic wind farm, which is a renewable energy resource, is modeled in this work. The requirement energy of distribution company can be either provided by distribution company′s own distributed generations or purchased from power market. Two reliability indices as well as DC load flow equations are also considered in order to satisfy reliability and security constraints, respectively. Since allocating proper spinning reserve improves reliability level, the amount of spinning reserve will be calculated iteratively. In this work, all equations are expressed in a linear fashion in which unit commitment formulation depends on binary variables associated with only on/off of units. The benders decomposition method is used to solve security‐based unit commitment.
Isocyanate Reduction by Epoxide Substitution of Alcohols for Polyurethane Bioelastomer Synthesis
Authors: Lubguban Arnold A. , Lozada Zuleica R. , Tu Yuan-Chan , Fan Hongyu , Hsieh Fu-Hung , Suppes Galen J.
Published: September 2011

A phosphate ester-forming reaction was carried out by mixing epoxidized soybean oil with up to 1.5%o-phosphoric acid.In situoligomerization took effect almost instantly producing a clear, homogeneous, highly viscous, and a low-acid product with a high average functionality. The resulting epoxide was used as a reactant for urethane bioelastomer synthesis and evaluated for rigid foam formulation. Results have shown that with a number of catalysts tested phosphoric acid significantly enhances a solvent-free oxirane ring cleavage and polymerization of the epoxidized soybean oil via phosphate-ester formation at room temperature. The resulting phosphoric acid-catalyzed epoxide-based bioelastomer showed an 80% decrease in extractable content and increased tensile strength at the same isocyanate loading relative to the noncatalyzed epoxide. The oligomerized epoxidized soybean oil materials exhibited ASTM hydroxyl values 40% less than the nonoligomerized starting material which translates to reduced isocyanate loadings in urethane applications.
Complicated Community-Acquired Staphylococcus Endocarditis and Multiple Lung Abscesses: Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Garbati Musa A. , Tleyjeh Imad M. , Abba Abdullah A.
Published: September 2011

Background. Isolated tricuspid valve endocarditis in the absence of risk factors in the community setting is very rare and can be easily missed in patients with hitherto normal valves.Case Presentation. We present a case of a 49 year old gentleman who presented with generalized body aches, fever, and jaundice and was initial diagnosed as hepatitis. He subsequently developed recurrent episodes of panic attacks and shortness of breath and later multiple skin abscesses. Further investigations excluded pulmonary embolism but revealed multiple abscesses in the body including the lungs. Blood cultures and culture from abscesses grewS. aureus.An initial transthoracic echocardiogram was normal. A transesophageal echocardiogram subsequently confirmed endocarditis on a normal natural tricuspid valve and multiple lung abscesses. He was successfully treated with appropriate antibiotics.Conclusion. We discuss the pathogenesis of this patient's presentation highlight the need for assessment and proper evaluation of patients with unexplained bacteremia.
Antiproliferative Activity of Xanthones Isolated fromArtocarpus obtusus
Authors: Hashim Najihah Mohd , Rahmani Mawardi , Ee Gwendoline Cheng Lian , Sukari Mohd Aspollah , Yahayu Maizatulakmal , Oktima Winda , Ali Abd Manaf , Go Rusea
Published: September 2011

An investigation of the chemical constituents inArtocarpus obtususspecies led to the isolation of three new xanthones, pyranocycloartobiloxanthone A (1), dihydroartoindonesianin C (2), and pyranocycloartobiloxanthone B (3). The compounds were subjected to antiproliferative assay against human promyelocytic leukemia (HL60), human chronic myeloid leukemia (K562), and human estrogen receptor (ER+) positive breast cancer (MCF7) cell lines. Pyranocycloartobiloxanthone A (1) consistently showed strong cytotoxic activity against the three cell lines compared to the other two with IC50values of 0.5, 2.0 and 5.0 μg/mL, respectively. Compound (1) was also observed to exert antiproliferative activity and apoptotic promoter towards HL60 and MCF7 cell lines at respective IC50values. The compound (1) was not toxic towards normal cell lines human nontumorigenic breast cell line (MCF10A) and human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) with IC50values of more than 30 μg/mL.
Biochemical and Molecular Aspects of Vascular Adrenergic Regulation of Blood Pressure in the Elderly
Authors: Schutzer William E. , Mader Scott L.
Published: September 2011

Hypertension, orthostatic hypotension, arterial insufficiency, and atherosclerosis are common disorders in the elderly that lead to significant morbidity and mortality. One common factor to these conditions is an age-related decline in vascular beta-adrenergic receptor-mediated function and subsequent cAMP generation. Presently, there is no single cellular factor that can explain this age-related decline, and thus, the primary cause of this homeostatic imbalance is yet to be identified. However, the etiology is clearly associated with an age-related change in the ability of beta-adrenergic receptor to respond to agonist at the cellular level in the vasculature. This paper will review what is presently understood regarding the molecular and biochemical basis of age-impaired beta-adrenergic receptor-mediated signaling. A fundamental understanding of whyβ-AR-mediated vasorelaxation is impaired with age will provide new insights and innovative strategies for the management of multiple clinical disorders.
Regional Differences in Effects of APOE ε4 on Cognitive Impairment in Non-Demented Subjects
Authors: Norberg J. , Graff C. , Almkvist O. , Ewers M. , Frisoni G.B. , Frölich L. , Hampel H. , Jones R.W. , Kehoe P.G. , Lenoir H. , Minthon L. , Nobili F. , Olde Rikkert M. , Rigaud A.-S. , Scheltens P. , Soininen H. , Spiru L. , Tsolaki M. , Wahlund L.-O. , Vellas B. , Wilcock G. , Elias-Sonnenschein L.S. , Verhey F.R.J. , Visser P.J.
Published: September 2011

Background: The APOE ε4 allele is a risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). APOE ε4 is common in non-demented subjects with cognitive impairment. In both healthy people and people with AD, its prevalence has a north-south gradient across Europe. In the present study, we investigated whether the relation between the APOE ε4 allele and cognitive impairment varied across Northern, Middle and Southern Europe. We also investigated whether a north-south gradient existed in subjects with subjective cognitive impairment (SCI), amnestic mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and non-amnestic MCI. Methods: Data from 16 centers across Europe were analyzed. Results: A north-south gradient in APOE ε4 prevalence existed in the total sample (62.7% for APOE ε4 carriers in the northern region, 42.1% in the middle region, and 31.5% in the southern region) and in subjects with SCI and amnestic MCI separately. Only in Middle Europe was the APOE ε4 allele significantly associated with poor performance on tests of delayed recall and learning, as well as with the amnestic subtype of MCI. Conclusion: The APOE ε4 allele frequencies in subjects with SCI and amnestic MCI have a north-south gradient. The relation between the APOE ε4 allele and cognition is region dependent.
Addition of enoxaparin to aspirin for the secondary prevention of placental vascular complications in women with severe pre-eclampsia
Authors: Chauleur Céline , Molinari Nicolas , Marès Pierre , Fabbro-Peray Pascale , Quéré Isabelle , Lefrant Jean-Yves , Haddad Bassam , Dauzat Michel , Gris Jean-Christophe
Published: September 2011

dministration of heparin in the secondary prevention of placental vascular complications is still experimental. In women with a previous severe pre-eclampsia, we investigated the effectiveness of enoxaparin, a low-molecular-weight heparin, in preventing these complications. Between January 2000 and January 2010, 224 women from the NOHA First cohort, with previous severe pre-eclampsia but no foetal loss during their first pregnancy and negative for antiphospholipid antibodies, were randomised to either a prophylactic daily dose of enoxaparin starting from the positive pregnancy test (n=112), or no enoxaparin (n=112). The primary outcome was a composite of at least one of the following: pre-eclampsia, abruptio placentae, birthweight ≤5th percen-tile, or foetal loss after 20 weeks. Enoxaparin was associated with a lower frequency of primary outcome: 8.9% (n=10/112) vs. 25 % (28/112), p=0.004, hazard ratio = 0.32, 95% confidence interval (0.16–0.66), p=0.002. Enoxaparin was safe, with no obvious side-effect, no thrombocytopenia nor major bleeding event excess. This pilot study shows that enoxaparin given early during the second pregnancy decreases the occurrence of placental vascular complications in women with a previous severe pre-eclampsia during their first pregnancy.

The pilot randomised controlled NOH-PE trial
Comparison of antithrombotic efficacy between edoxaban, a direct factor Xa inhibitor, and fondaparinux, an indirect factor Xa inhibitor under low and high shear rates
Authors: Tsuji Naoki , Honda Yuko , Kamisato Chikako , Morishima Yoshiyuki , Shibano Toshiro , Fukuda Toshio
Published: September 2011

Edoxaban is an oral, direct factor Xa (FXa) inhibitor under late-phase clinical development. This study compared the antithrombotic efficacy of edoxaban with that of an indirect FXa inhibitor, fondaparinux, in in vivo venous and arterial thrombosis models and in ex vivo perfusion chamber thrombosis model under low and high shear rates in rats. Venous and arterial thrombi were induced by platinum wire insertion into the inferior vena cava and by application of FeCl3 to the carotid artery, respectively. The perfusion chamber thrombus was formed by blood perfusion into a collagen-coated capillary at 150 s-1 (low shear rate) and 1,600 s-1 (high shear rate). Effective doses of edoxaban that reduced thrombus formation by 50% (ED50) in venous and arterial thrombosis models were 0.076 and 0.093 mg/kg/h, respectively. In contrast, ED50 of fondaparinux in the arterial thrombosis model (>10 mg/kg/h) was markedly higher compared to ED50 in the venous thrombosis model (0.021 mg/kg/h). In the perfusion chamber thrombosis model, the ratio of ED50 under high shear rate (1.13 mg/kg/h) to that under low shear rate (0.63 mg/kg/h) for edoxaban was 1.9, whereas that for fondaparinux was more than 66. While the efficacy of fondaparinux markedly decreased in arterial thrombosis and in a high-shear state, edoxaban exerted consistent antithrombotic effects regardless of flow conditions. These results suggest that shear rate is a key factor in different antithrombotic effects between edoxaban and fondaparinux.
Echocardiographic Variables After Left Ventricular Assist Device Implantation Associated With Adverse Outcome
Authors: Topilsky Yan , Hasin Tal , Oh Jae K. , Borgeson Daniel D. , Boilson Barry A. , Schirger John A. , Clavell Alfredo L. , Frantz Robert P. , Tsutsui Rayji , Liu Mingya , Maltais Simon , Kushwaha Sudhir S. , Pereira Naveen L. , Park Soon J.
Published: September 2011

Background—

Operative mortality after left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation is heavily influenced by patient selection and the technical difficulty of surgery. However, how we treat our patients and LVAD setting may affect the patient outcome beyond this period. We postulated that the presence of echocardiographic variables 1 month after surgery suggesting appropriate degree of LV unloading and an adequate forward flow would be important in determining clinical outcomes after the initial successful LVAD implantation.

Methods and Results—

We retrospectively analyzed various variables in echocardiographic examinations performed 30 days after LVAD implant in 76 consecutive patients receiving continuous flow device for their association with a compound end point (90-day mortality, readmission for heart failure, or New York Heart Association class III or higher at the end of the 90-day period). The echocardiographic associations examined included estimated LVAD flow, with and without native LV contribution, interventricular septal position, the status of aortic valve opening, an estimated left atrial pressure (ELAP), the mitral flow E-wave deceleration time, and the ratio of deceleration time to E-wave velocity (mitral deceleration index [MDI]). Four patients died during the 30- to 90-day period, 6 patients were readmitted for heart failure, and 25 patients were considered to have New York Heart Association class III or higher at the end of the 90-day period. Variables associated with adverse outcome included increased ELAP (odds ratio, 1.30 [1.16–1.48];
P
<0.0001), MDI <2 ms/[cm/s] (odds ratio, 4.4 implantation [1.22–18];
P
=0.02) and decreased tricuspid lateral annulus velocity (odds ratio, 0.70 implantation [0.48–0.95];
P
=0.02). A leftward deviation of interventricular septum was associated with a worse outcome (odds ratio, 3.03 implantation [1.21–13.3];
P
=0.01).

Conclusions—

Mortality and heart failure after LVAD surgery appear to be predominantly determined by echocardiographic evidence of inefficient unloading of the left ventricle and persistence of right ventricular dysfunction. Increased estimated LA pressure and short MDI are associated with worse mid term outcome. Leftward deviation of the septum is associated with worse outcome as well.
The Limits to Public Participation in Strengthening Public Accountability: A Reflection on the ‘Citizens’ Voice’ Initiative in South Africa
Authors: Smith Laïla
Published: September 2011

This paper unpacks the tension between social movement claims to basic services and local authority efforts to deliver within a progressive legislative context. It does this by exploring the challenges of public accountability in urban water service delivery through drawing on the lessons learnt from the implementation of the ‘Raising Citizens’ Voice in the Regulation of Water Services’ methodology in two South African cities over a four-year period. This paper argues that citizens’ ability to access the state is restricted by internal fragmentation across spheres of government and between politicians and officials. Compounded by a lack of recourse in the service delivery landscape, fragmentation significantly restrains the ability of citizens to access the state.
Ultrasonic dispersion of SiO2 particles in glassy epoxy resin
Authors: Jiang Yunpeng , Tohgo Keiichiro , Shimamura Yoshinobu
Published: September 2011

In this work, ultrasonic waves generated by an ultrasonic horn were used to disperse nano- and micrometer SiO2 particles into glassy epoxy resin. Many processing conditions, such as dispersion time, cooling, and material's volume, were varied systematically with an aim of achieving an optimum dispersion of particles. The glassy epoxy resin was reinforced by using spherical SiO2 powders with diameters of 0.7 μm and 1.6 μm and volume fraction of 0–20%. Dog-bone-shaped specimens were fabricated and measured under uniaxial tension for determining the fundamental material properties. Experimental results revealed that (1) increasing dispersion time resulted in more homogeneous dispersion, but excessively long dispersion could not further improve the dispersion effect; (2) the influence of dispersion time to neat epoxy is negligible; and (3) fracture surface of glassy polymer is very smooth, which is a viscous flow process different from metals. Finally, ultrasonic wave has proved to be a good technique for effectively dispersing SiO2 powders in glassy epoxy resin.
Modeling of thermal residual stress in environmental barrier coated fiber reinforced ceramic matrix composites
Authors: Abdul-Aziz Ali , Bhatt Ramakrishna T
Published: September 2011

For SiC/SiC composites to replace metallic materials in future turbine engines, prime reliant environmental barrier coatings (EBCs) are required. However, due to the mismatch in thermal expansion and elastic modulus between the substrate and the coating, thermal residual stresses are generated in the coating after processing as well as during exposure to turbine engine operating conditions. The nature and magnitude of the thermal stresses will have a profound effect on the durability and reliability of the EBC. To estimate the magnitude of in-plane ( x- and y-directions) and through-the-thickness ( z-direction) thermal residual stresses in the coating, a finite element model (FEM) was developed. Using FEM, the residual stresses were predicted for three multilayered EBC systems considered for the SiC/SiC composites: (1) barium strontium aluminum silicate, (2) ytterbium disilicate, and (3) ytterbium monosilicate. Influence of thickness and modulus of the coating layer on the thermal residual stress were modeled. Results indicate that thermal residual stresses in the SiC/SiC composite substrate are compressive and in all the three coatings tensile. Further examination indicates that in the z-direction, tensile stresses in all three systems are negligible, but in-plane tensile stresses can be significant depending on the composition of the constituent layer and the distance from the substrate. Comparison of predicted thermal residual stresses in the three systems shows that the ytterbium monosilicate system has the highest stress (~395 MPa), while the other two systems averaged about 80 MPa in one of the coating layers. A parametric analysis conducted indicates that lowering the modulus of the coating can lower the thermal residual stresses.
Shortened carbon nanotubes and their influence on the electrical properties of polymer nanocomposites
Authors: Inam Fawad , Reece Michael J , Peijs Ton
Published: September 2011

Multi-wall carbon nanotubes of medium length (mCNTs) were aggressively tip-ultrasonicated to produce shortened and damaged carbon nanotubes (xCNTs). High-resolution electron microscopic analysis was performed to measure the dimensions of carbon nanotubes (CNTs). Thermo-gravimetric analysis and Raman spectroscopy were used to evaluate the damage in the sonicated CNTs. Short CNTs (sCNTs), in their pristine form (undamaged), were used for comparison with sonicated xCNTs. Good dispersion was achieved when CNTs were bath-ultrasonicated in epoxy resin. The electrical conductivities were measured for cured CNT/epoxy nanocomposites. Compared to shorter CNTs (xCNT and sCNT), mCNT lowered the percolation threshold of CNT/epoxy nanocomposites for electrical conductivity. While ultrasonically shortened xCNTs did give a percolation threshold similar to that of sCNT/epoxy nanocomposites, lower ultimate electrical conductivities were obtained for nanocomposites based on xCNTs due to the presence of structural defects.
Cryogenic tensile and fracture properties of carbon nanofiber/poly-dicyclopentadiene composites fabricated by ultrasonic method
Authors: Sanada Kazuaki , Sanga Hideo , Shindo Yasuhide
Published: September 2011

Cryogenic tensile and fracture properties of carbon nanofiber (CNF)/poly-dicyclopentadiene (poly-DCPD) composites have been investigated experimentally. Flat tensile specimens and single-edge notched tensile (SENT) specimens of CNF/poly-DCPD composites with 0.25, 0.5, and 1.0 vol% CNFs were fabricated by an ultrasonic method and tested at room temperature (RT) and liquid nitrogen temperature (77 K). The effect of ultrasonication time on the cryogenic tensile and fracture properties of CNF/poly-DCPD composites was discussed. A scanning electron microscope (SEM) was also used to observe the fracture surface morphology of poly-DCPD composites.
Microstructure and fluidity evolution during recycling of Al–B4C metal matrix composites
Authors: Shi C.-J. , Zhang Z. , Chen X.-G.
Published: September 2011

Fluidity of metal matrix composites can greatly influence the recyclability of the material in the conventional ingot metallurgy process. The fluidity evolution of the AA6063–10% B4C composite in the form of cast billets and extruded plates, as well as the AA1100–16% B4C composite of cast ingots and rolled sheets was investigated by the vacuum fluidity test. The results showed that the fluidity decline of cast billets was much faster than that of extruded plates. However, the fluidity of both the cast ingots and rolled sheets decreased at the same rate with the holding time. To understand the flow behavior and recyclability of different composites, the microstructure of process materials before and after remelting was examined. The distribution of B4C particles and their reaction products, as well as the effective volume fraction, were quantitatively characterized. It was found that the fluidity of the extruded material, hence its recyclability, was better than that of the cast material due to a more uniform particle distribution and less particle agglomerates. Contrary to the extruded material, the rolled material did not show any fluidity improvement to the cast material due to damage of the TiB2 protective layer around the B4C surfaces during severe rolling deformation.
Socio-psychological barriers to peace making: An empirical examination within the Israeli Jewish Society
Authors: Halperin Eran , Bar-Tal Daniel
Published: September 2011

Socio-psychological barriers play a major role in the continuation of intractable conflicts. They are responsible for the socio-psychological closure that resists and prevents the entertainment of alternative information that could potentially facilitate the acceptance of ideas advancing peacemaking processes. In an attempt to validate a process model that depicts the functioning of the socio-psychological barriers to conflict resolution, an empirical study was conducted among a nationwide representative sample of Jews in Israel, within the context of the Middle Eastern conflict. The reported study utilized a large scale survey, based on a nationwide representative sample of Israeli Jews who were asked to respond to a questionnaire which included the model’s selected variables. As hypothesized, the results showed a path leading from general worldviews (e.g. General values, Right Wing Authoritarianism, Implicit theories about groups) to openness to new information and readiness to compromise through the mediation of the conflict-related societal beliefs (e.g. victimhood, delegitimization). These results indicate that closure to new information that may shed new light on both the rival and the conflict emerges as a crucial factor in the maintenance of society members’ non-compromising views. The theoretical as well as the applied implications of the findings are discussed.
Sex-Role Specialization in a Transforming Market: Empirical Evidence from Vietnamese Middle-Class Households
Authors: Penz Elfriede , Kirchler Erich
Published: September 2011

Vietnam is undergoing a rapid transformation to a more prosperous society. This article analyzes household decision making in a transforming economy that has undergone modification of the traditional view of the family, from being an autonomous unit to an object of state policy. This is relevant because policy interventions shape household consumption through gender equality programs and thus have an impact on sex-role specialization. The aim of this study is to advance understanding of Vietnamese household consumption decisions and spouses’ current influence patterns by investigating sex-role specialization in Vietnamese middle-class families’ decision making. Overall, no significant sex-role changes were observed. It seems that traditional Vietnamese sex-role specialization does not (yet) differ among age groups. Instead, traditional sex-role segmentation remains predominant across all investigated age groups. While economic and consumption habits change rapidly, middle-class families appear to preserve their traditional influence patterns in purchase decisions.
The availability of bone powder as inorganic element source on growth and development in wheat seedlings
Authors: Genisel Mucip , Erdal Serkan , Turk Hulya , Dumlupinar Rahmi
Published: September 2011

Bone powder (BP), a by-product of cattle slaughtering plants, consists of fat, protein, amino acids, inorganic elements and vitamins. It is used as bone meal in biomedical and feed industry because of its rich content. In addition, bone contains a large amount of inorganic elements especially calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P), which the plants need to maintain their physiological and biochemical processes. BP has been used as Ca and P source in agriculture for many years; however, its effects on plant growth and development have not yet been studied in detail. The present study aimed to determine the effects of BP on dry weight and contents of total chlorophyll, soluble protein and sugar as indicators of physiological response in the leaves. For this purpose, bone powder solutions (BPS) were prepared at different concentrations (0.5%, 1%, 1.5% and 2%) and applied to growing media of the 10-day wheat seedlings. Afterward, the 14-day seedlings were harvested, and the effects of BPS on plant response were determined. The results showed that BPS treatments significantly stimulated dry weight and contents of total chlorophyll, protein and sugar compared to control seedlings. The best stimulatory effect of BPS was determined at 1% concentration. According to these results, it is possible to say that BP may be used to meet the inorganic element requirements of plants in poor soils and hydroponic systems.
Role of Peltigera rufescens (Weis) Humb. (a lichen) on imazalil-induced genotoxicity: analysis of micronucleus and chromosome aberrations in vitro
Authors: Türkez Hasan , Aydın Elanur , Şişman Turgay , Aslan Ali
Published: September 2011

Imazalil (IMA), a commonly used fungicide in both agricultural and clinical domains, is suspected to produce very serious toxic effects on vertebrates. On the other hand, in recent years, a number of studies have suggested that lichens might be easily accessible sources of natural drugs that could be used as a possible food supplement. Extensive research is being carried out to explore the importance of lichen species, which are known to contain a variety of pharmacological active compounds. In this context, the anti-genotoxic effects of aqueous Peltigera rufescens (Weis) Humb. extracts (PREs) were studied against the genotoxic damage induced by IMA on cultured human lymphocytes using chromosomal aberrations (CAs) and micronucleus (MN) as cytogenetic parameters. Human peripheral lymphocytes were treated in vitro with varying concentrations of PREs (0, 5, 10, 25, 50 and 100 mg/L), tested in combination with IMA (336 mg/L). PREs alone were not genotoxic and when combined with IMA treatment, reduced the frequency of CAs and the rates of MNs. A clear dose-dependent decrease in the genotoxic damage of IMA was observed, suggesting a genoprotective role of P. rufescens extract. The results of the present study indicate that this plant extract per se do not have genotoxic potential but can minimize the genotoxicity of IMA on human lymphocytes in vitro. In conclusion our findings may have an important application for the protection of human lymphocyte from the genetic damage and side effects induced by agricultural and medical chemicals hazardous in people.
The Neoliberal-Developmental State: Singapore as Case Study
Authors: Liow Eugene Dili
Published: September 2011

Neoliberalism is often regarded as a type of economic practice advocating the primacy of the market and the rolling back of the Keynesian welfare state. Yet neoliberalism does not merely functions as economic tenets. There is also another side to it as a form of government or governmentality. This is the other less-attended to aspect of neoliberalism, and which this paper seeks to highlight. Through the example of the island-state of Singapore, neoliberalism is examined as a set of economic tenets and as a form of governmentality by considering the neoliberal political rationality that forms the basis for their existence. Once a developmental state, Singapore has undergone much structural changes to its economy in the past decade. The economy has gradually been deregulated, liberalised and privatised to conform more to the neoliberal model. However, existing interests embedded within the developmental state prevents a transition to a full-fledged neoliberal regulatory one. Instead what emerges is a type of hybrid state, in the form of the neoliberal-developmental state. It is hoped that by examining this notion of the neoliberal-developmental state, further light can be shed on neoliberalism and its impact on this tiny island-state and vice-versa.
Handling enhancement of a sliding-mode control assisted four-wheel steer vehicle
Authors: Kazemi M , Shirazi K H
Published: September 2011

This paper is an investigation of the role of the robust control strategy of the rear wheel steer system to improve handling. To establish an accurate model of the vehicle, a nine degree-of-freedom (DOF) model is considered. The model’s degrees of freedom consist of three angular motions (roll, pitch, and yaw) of the sprung mass, spin of the wheels, and two translational motions (forward and side travel) of the unsprung mass. Also, the environment and geometric effects, such as aerodynamic forces, tyre–ground interaction, body roll versus camber relation, steering command saturation, and roll axis inclination, are taken into account. The front and rear suspensions are assumed to be a MacPherson strut and semi-trailing arm respectively. Cornering behaviour of the vehicle is studied and compared for a manual two-wheel steer (2WS) and a sliding-mode control assisted four-wheel steer (4WS) vehicle. A 3-DOF vehicle model is used to make a fast state estimation. The yaw rate is used as the reference signal for the control system, to ensure that the desired handling is obtained. The results show that during the standard cornering manoeuvres, the sliding-mode control provides significant tracking performance and lower sensitivity to vehicle velocity, road condition, and roll axis inclination compared to the 2WS. Also lane tracking and cornering behaviour of the steering system is enhanced towards the neutral steer.
Future trends in the use of X-ray fluoroscopy for the measurement and modelling of joint motion
Authors: Ackland D C , Keynejad F , Pandy M G
Published: September 2011

Knowledge of three-dimensional skeletal kinematics during functional activities such as walking, is required for accurate modelling of joint motion and loading, and is important in identifying the effects of injury and disease. For example, accurate measurement of joint kinematics is essential in understanding the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis and its symptoms and for developing strategies to alleviate joint pain. Bi-plane X-ray fluoroscopy has the capacity to accurately and non-invasively measure human joint motion in vivo. Joint kinematics obtained using bi-plane X-ray fluoroscopy will aid in the development of more complex musculoskeletal models, which may be used to assess joint function and disease and plan surgical interventions and post-operative rehabilitation strategies. At present, however, commercial C-arm systems constrain the motion of the subject within the imaging field of view, thus precluding recording of motions such as overground gait. These fluoroscopy systems also operate at low frame rates and therefore cannot accurately capture high-speed joint motion during tasks such as running and throwing. In the future, bi-plane fluoroscopy systems may include computer-controlled tracking for the measurement of joint kinematics over entire cycles of overground gait without constraining motion of the subject. High-speed cameras will facilitate measurement of high-impulse joint motions, and computationally efficient pose-estimation software may provide a fast and fully automated process for quantification of natural joint motion.
Pollen analysis at Paju Unjeong, South Korea: Implications of land-use changes since the late Neolithic
Authors: Yi Sangheon , Kim Ju-Yong
Published: September 2011

Age-controlled pollen and microcharcoal records from Holocene sediments in Paju Unjeong, Korea, reflect the response of vegetation dynamics to climate changes and human activity. The pollen spectrum shows clear differences between the natural vegetation stage and the land-use vegetation stage. The land-use vegetation stage is further divided into dry-field cultivation and paddy-field cultivation stages. The natural vegetation stage ( c. 8420–4700 cal. BP, early Neolithic) indicates the presence of dense woodlands consisting of various deciduous broadleaved trees on well-drained hills to uplands during the mid-Holocene period. Early Neolithic foraging peoples occupied the area and collected wild plants and fruits, such as acorns. The land-use stage ( c. 4700 cal. BP, late Neolithic to Modern) reflects forest transition and, finally, Gramineae-dominated open landscape. During the dry-field cultivation stage ( c. 4700–2000 cal. BP, late Neolithic to Bronze Age), inhabitants may have used fire as the principal means to open lowland vegetation for occupation, wood reclamation, and artifact making. During the paddy-field cultivation stage ( c. 2000 cal. BP, Iron Age to Modern), inhabitants’ activities on adjacent open lowland increased. The local area became an extensive open landscape on which the Baekje people ( c. ad 0–100, first century in Korean chronology) utilized constant fires to manage woodlands at limited levels for more open habitat. Their descendents, the Joseon people ( c. ad 1600, seventeenth century in Korean chronology), utilized strategic management of pine trees as a secondary method to obtain wood material for building houses.
Compact and Lightweight Hydraulic Actuation System for High Performance Millimeter Scale Robotic Applications: Modeling and Experiments
Authors: Solano Belen , Rotinat-Libersa Christine
Published: September 2011

In this work, the design modeling and testing of a compact and lightweight hydraulic actuation system is presented. Compared to similar compact actuators found in the literature, our system considerably increases the work density while maintaining an equivalent force-to-volume ratio. An analytical model that is able to accurately predict the quasi-static behavior of the actuator has been developed and experimentally validated. Existing models in the literature are able to predict only one performance parameter at a time – either the force or the contraction – from the imposed pressure and the exteroceptive measurement of the other performance parameter. Due to the design configuration chosen for the actuator, our analytical model is able to simultaneously predict both the force and the contraction by using theknowledge of two proprioceptive parameters of the fluid circuit (imposed volume and measurement of the pressure). The latter is particularly interesting, as it enables a precise estimate of the muscle behavior, only through the known parameters located at the fluid-transfer system, and not directly in the muscle, which is of crucial importance to simplify instrumentation and compactness of the actuation system. Four in-house fabricated muscles, with diameters down to 1.5 mm, have been tested with internal pressures up to 1.7 MPa. Theexperimental results showed in all cases a very good agreement with the predicted performances, thus validating the analytical model developed.
Basic Performance Evaluation of Electrorheological Gel in Vacuum Condition
Authors: Shida Y. , Kakinuma Y. , Aoyama T. , Minami H. , Anzai H.
Published: September 2011

ER gel exhibits various adhesive characteristics according to the applied electric field. This characteristic is called the EA effect. The results of a recent study reveal that the EA effect also occurs in a vacuum. Therefore, it is expected that ER gel can be applied to a chucking or damping device in a vacuum process. However, the characteristics of ER gel in a vacuum have not been sufficiently clarified. The purpose of this study is to experimentally evaluate the characteristic of ER gel in a vacuum. The performance of an ERG fixture element used for a silicon wafer in a vacuum is evaluated through shearing tests. The experimental results indicate that the ER gel demonstrates satisfactory performance in a vacuum. Moreover, the outgas released from the ER gel in a vacuum is evaluated, and the influence of the degassing time on the outgas is investigated.
Reverberation-ray analysis of continuous Timoshenko beams subject to moving loads
Authors: Jiang Ji-Qing , Chen Wei-Qiu , Pao Yih-Hsing
Published: September 2011

The method of reverberation-ray matrix is extended to investigate the transient response of a multi-span, continuous Timoshenko beam subject to a moving load. Dual local coordinate systems are introduced and the corresponding analytical solutions in the frequency domain are presented, with the particular solution derived by the dual Fourier transform. The transient responses are then obtained using the Fast Fourier Transform algorithm. To avoid the error due to the singularity (or near singularity) of the kernel of integral, the technique of Neumann series expansion is adopted for the undamped response of beams. Numerical results are compared with those obtained by the existing methods and a good agreement is observed. It is found that the present method is uniform in formulating for dynamic analysis of beam-typed structures with multi-branches and is especially suitable for calculating transient responses containing high-frequency components. Besides, no discretization error is involved as the method is completely based on continuum models.
Application of inverse data-driven parametric models in the reconstruction of passenger vehicle wheel vertical movement under ride conditions
Authors: Czop Piotr
Published: September 2011

This paper considers a method for reconstructing the vertical displacement of wheels resulting from the road profile, using an inverse parametric data-driven model. Wheel movement is required in variable damping semi-active suspension systems, which use an onboard control system that improves ride quality and vehicle handling in typical maneuvers. This paper presents a feasibility study of such an approach which was performed in laboratory conditions. Experimental validation tests were conducted on a setup consisting of a servo-hydraulic test rig equipped with displacement, force and acceleration transducers and a data-acquisition system. The fidelity and adequacy of various parametric single-input single-output model structures were evaluated in the time and frequency domain based on correlation coefficient, Akaike information criterion, and final prediction error criteria. The experimental test results showed that inverse models provide high-level accuracy of inversion in the time domain, ranging from more than 70% for the ARX model structure to over 90% for the OE model structure.