bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tackling “Wicked Problems” in Planning Studio Courses
Authors: Balassiano Katia
Published: August 2011

Planning practitioners encounter both “tame” and “wicked” problems in the workplace. Conventional planning studios generally prepare students for the less complex or tame problems, but politically contentious studios fraught with uncertainty will simulate a more realistic, if not more challenging, studio experience. In this study, I use content analysis of university syllabi to determine the degree to which planning studios are preparing students to tackle “wicked problems” upon graduation. Then, based on the lessons learned from a workshop pertaining to natural gas drilling in the Marcellus Shale, I offer guidance to instructors of studio-type courses who wish to introduce their students to complex problem solving.
Effect of –COOH Functionalized Carbon Nanotubes on Mechanical, Dynamic Mechanical and Thermal Properties of Polypropylene Nanocomposites
Authors: Girei Salihu Adamu , Thomas Selvin P. , Atieh Muataz Ali , Mezghani Khaled , De S.K. , Bandyopadhyay Sri , Al-Juhani Abdulhadi
Published: August 2011

Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were functionalized on treatment with nitric acid and the surface-modified CNT was characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Isotactic polypropylene (iPP)/CNT composites at different CNT loadings (i.e., 0.1, 0.25, 1.00, and 5.00 wt%) were prepared by melt blending in a mini blender. The differential scanning calorimetric (DSC) studies showed the nucleating effect of CNTs on the crystallization behavior of iPP. Results of X-ray diffraction studies are in conformity with the results of DSC studies. Results of stress–strain measurements reveal that Young's modulus increases, while elongation at break decreases with increase in CNT loading and the ductility of the composites is adversely affected at high loading of CNTs (>1.0 wt%). Functionalization of CNTs causes an improvement in Young's modulus, at all loadings studied, but elongation at break increases only up to 0.25%. At higher loading, the elongation at break drops down. Storage modulus increases with increase in CNT loading and the effect is greater in the case of functionalized CNTs. Tan δ shows a decrease with increase in CNT loading, but the effect is less pronounced at high CNT loading (>0.1 wt%).
Polypropylene hybrid composites filled by wood flour and short glass fiber: Effect of compatibilizer on structure and properties
Authors: Zhang Xiuju , Yang Huajun , Lin Zhidan , Tan Shaozao
Published: August 2011

Polypropylene (PP) hybrid composites filled with wood flour (WF) and short glass fiber were prepared by melt blending and injection molding. Maleic anhydride-grafted PP (PP-g-MA), glycidyl methacrylate-grafted PP (PP-g-GMA), maleic anhydride-grafted ethylene-octene copolymer (POE-g-MA), and maleic anhydride-grafted hydrogenated styrene-butadiene-styrene (SEBS-g-MA) were used as the compatibilizers to enhance the interfacial adhesion between PP and the fillers. The effect of the types and contents of graft polymer on the crystallization and melting behavior, micromorphology, mechanical property, moisture resistance, and thermal stability of PP hybrid composites was observed. The result showed that PP-g-MA and PP-g-GMA had strong heterogeneous nucleation and promotion effect on PP crystallization. PP-g-MA was superior to enhance the tensile, flexural, and impact properties of composites. Hybrid composites had excellent moisture resistance and low water absorption. WF and PP macromolecular compatibilizer could improve the thermal stability of PP composites, in which the most obvious effect was obtained in PP-g-MA-modified WF and short glass fiber hybrid system. As a result, PP/WF composite could achieve outstanding improvement effect by being modified with macromolecular compatibilizer.
Worlds Apart?
Authors: James Albert E. , Jennings Jennifer E. , Breitkreuz Rhonda S.
Published: August 2011

This article demonstrates how the combined approaches of informed pluralism and disciplined integration can help rebridge the distance between the seemingly disparate academic worlds of family science and family business. The authors establish the need for such a resynthesis by documenting trends within family enterprise research from 1985 to 2010. The analysis vividly illustrates not only the increased dominance of publication outlets and theoretical perspectives associated with business but also the near disappearance of those associated with family. In light of these trends, the authors suggest that renewed attention to integrating ideas from the two disciplines is likely to enrich both. To illustrate this claim, this study combines concepts from long-standing theories within the family science literature (structural functionalism and symbolic interactionism) with those from predominant perspectives within the family business literature (agency theory and the resource-based view). The outcome is a series of provocative yet relevant potential new directions for each field.
The Cognitive Legitimacy of the Family Business Field
Authors: Pérez Rodríguez María José , Basco Rodrigo
Published: August 2011

This article analyzes cognitive legitimacy in family business field and makes three main contributions to the literature: First, the authors move the debate claiming legitimacy for the field one step forward and offer a new approach to explain how the field has attained its current course of development. Second, the authors’ analysis goes beyond external support in the consideration of legitimacy and develops a methodological process for the study of cognitive legitimacy. Finally, the study has practical implications for researchers and society, as increasing the knowledge available to describe, explain, and predict phenomena can improve family business performance and develop regional economies.
Characterization of the interface heat transfer coefficient during non-isothermal bulk forming of Ti–6Al–4 V alloy
Authors: Yeom J-T , Park N-K , Shin T-J , Hwang S M , Hong S S , Shim I O , Lee Y H , Lee C S
Published: August 2011

An investigation on the interface heat transfer coefficient during bulk forming of glass-coated Ti–6Al–4 V was carried out. Heat transfer experiments were conducted where two dies were heated to various temperatures and Ti–6Al–4 V cylindrical specimen heated to 970°C was upset tested. Temperature changes of the lower die consisting of AISI H13 were recorded in relation to the process variables such as reduction ratio, lubrication condition, and initial die temperature. The temperature change data were analysed to determine the interface heat transfer coefficients between lubricated die and glass-coated workpiece by using the plotting approach on calibration curves derived from analytical method and the inverse algorithm coupled to finite element (FE) analysis. The former was to determine the initial guessing values for applying the inverse algorithm. The validation of final coefficients determined by the inverse algorithm was made by comparison between the upsetting process and the FE analysis results.
Load–deflection prediction and stress verification in extreme large deformation of rubber suspensions used in rail vehicles
Authors: Luo R K , Peng L M , Wu X P , Mortel W J
Published: August 2011

Rubber suspensions are important components in railway vehicles. The offset sandwich mount is a type of rubber spring used on rail vehicles as the primary suspension above the axlebox on a bogie. In this installation, a pair of mounts is arranged within a vee configuration, such that the movements in all planes are controlled by a combined shear and compression displacement. This article evaluates the important aspects in the rubber suspension design when using a higher order material properties in an extreme large deformation. On one hand, using a higher order of material model has enabled prediction of larger deformations that are required for the actual product in the ultimate loading used in rail dynamic environment. On the other hand, using a higher order of material model with full integration elements, however, may mislead the design concept to an incorrect direction. It is important to note that the accuracy of the stress calculation is not guaranteed by a reasonable load–deflection prediction, even validated against a test result. Three methods to check the reliability of the calculated stresses are proposed. The investigation has been validated against a laboratory test. It is suggested that a higher order of material model should be used with reduced integration elements.
Computational study on the hovering mechanisms of a chordwise flexible wing
Authors: Zhang X W , Zhou C Y
Published: August 2011

The flexion effect of a flexible wing during the hovering flight is systematically studied by using computer simulations when Reynolds number is kept at 140. The aerodynamic forces and flow vortex are investigated by solving the two-dimensional time-dependent incompressible Navier–Stokes equations using the finite volume method. The wing is modelled as a thin plate which has a rigid leading portion and a flexible aft part. The simulations are performed for a variation of the location of rotational centre and the amplitude of the flexion, and the corresponding changes of the aerodynamic forces and vortex shedding mechanism in the wake structure are investigated. Form the quantitative comparisons, the present simulations reveal that a moderate flexion during the hovering fly can provide a better performance for a flapping wing, while an excessive flexion will lead the aerodynamic performance become worse. Though the flexion does not change the force trace of the hovering wing, the magnitude of the instantaneous peak forces and mean periodic forces are definitely changed by the chordwise deformation. Compared with a rigid hovering wing, the dynamic flexion during hovering alters the intensity of the leading edge vorticity and the transfer direction of the wake. Here, the present results indicate that the aerodynamic forces can be altered by adding some deformation characteristics to the trailing edge of the wing. Furthermore, the appropriate flexion can be used to alter the aerodynamic performance of a wing and will be helpful for design and control of the flexible microflying vehicles.
Self-adaptive uniform differential evolution for optimizing the initial integral point of the Earth–Moon low-energy transfer
Authors: Peng L , Dai G , Wang M , Hu H , Chang Y , Chen F
Published: August 2011

Low-energy transfer trajectory is of growing interest in the space community. It is important to choose the patch point of the unstable manifold of the Lyapunov orbit around Sun–Earth L2 and the stable manifold of the Lyapunov orbit around Earth–Moon L2. The main contributions of this study are two areas: (a) designing the optimization model and using evolutionary algorithms to optimize the initial condition and (b) developing effective algorithms for this problem.

In this article, an improved differential evolution (DE) algorithm, named adaptive uniform design differential evolution (AUDE), is proposed to solve the Earth–Moon low-energy transfer optimization problem. It incorporates the uniform design technology and the self-adaptive parameter control method into standard DE to accelerate its convergence speed and improve the stability and calculation accuracy. To verify the performance of AUDE, the Earth–Moon low-energy transfer optimization problem and 15 benchmark functions with diverse complexities are employed. The experiment results indicate that the authors' approach is able to find the better one, or at least comparably, in terms of the quality and stability of the final solutions than the other three algorithms. Moreover, it proves that the application of DE algorithm in the Earth–Moon low-energy transfer optimization problem is effective.
Migration of Neolithic settlements in the Dongting Lake area of the middle Yangtze River basin, China: Lake-level and monsoon climate responses
Authors: Liu Tao , Chen Zhongyuan , Sun Qianli , Finlayson Brian
Published: August 2011

The vast Dongting Lake in the middle Yangtze River basin, China, was occupied by Chinese Neolithic settlements starting 10 000 years ago, and rice cultivation there is probably the earliest in the world. The numerous Neolithic settlements identified by previous archaeological surveys represent the five major Neolithic cultural stages, i.e. the Pengtoushan (9000–7900 cal. yr BP), Zaoshixiaceng (7900–6800 cal. yr BP), Daxi (6800–5500 cal. yr BP), Qujialing (5500–5000 cal. yr BP), and Shijiahe (5000–4000 cal. yr BP). Using sedimentological and geoarchaeological approaches, this paper analyses the drivers of basin-scale settlement relocation in relation to lake-level fluctuations and monsoon climate variations in the Holocene. The relocation of Neolithic sites around the lake shoreline and on the adjacent floodplain, together with radiocarbon-dated stratigraphy, clearly indicates that the shape of the lake basin was an incised and elongated valley occupied by a lake in the early Holocene, which became a broader and shallower depression in the mid to late Holocene. The established lowest habitable base of the settlements positioned on the lake shore assists reconstruction of the change in lake level from 22 m at 9000 cal. yr BP to 26 m at 5500–4000 cal. yr BP, although higher and lower lake levels occurred during the intervening cultural stages. The pollen spectra reveal a warming trend throughout the Holocene with at least four major temperature cycles, driven by monsoon variations between temperate- and warm-humid conditions. In the early Holocene the climate changed from cool-dry to warm-humid, and this played a key role in developing the earliest Pengtoushan culture in the region. Subsequent climate fluctuations fit well with the advance and retreat of the lake shore, also coevally with Neolithic site movements in the lake region. In this study we show how geoarchaeological evidence can be used in environmental reconstruction during the Holocene.
Identification of differentially expressed genes by 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin in human bronchial epithelial cells
Authors: Jin K-S , Park CM , Lee Y-W
Published: August 2011

Dioxin (2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo- p-dioxin; TCDD) is one of the most powerful environmental toxins and causes a variety of toxic effects in humans. Since it makes first contact with bronchial epithelial cells as an atmospheric contaminant, we identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in TCDD-treated human bronchial epithelial cells (HBE4-E6/E7) using an annealing control primer (ACP) system. Six genes, five upregulated and one downregulated, were isolated and their expression patterns were confirmed by reverse dot blot analysis. Their genomic sequences were used for identification, and the upregulated proteins were found to be acyl-coenzyme A dehydrogenase (VLCAD), S100 calcium binding protein A6 (S100A6), nuclear receptor co-repressor 2 (NCOR2), ribosomal protein, large, P1 (RPLP1), and tubulin α 1c, and the downregulated protein was shown to be tubulin β2. Among them, the expression of the S100A6 was further analysed by northern hybridization because of its relationship with TCDD. These results suggest that this new method was simple and convenient to identify DEGs regulated by a specific agent. Moreover, these isolated genes may provide important information to better understand the mechanisms of TCDD toxicity in human bronchial epithelial cells.
Prevalence and Correlates of Obesity and Overweight Among Asian Immigrant Women in Korea
Authors: Yang Sook Ja , Choi Hye Young , Chee Yeon Kyung , Kim Jung A.
Published: August 2011

This study examines the prevalence of obesity and overweight as well as associations between obesity and overweight and demographic, sociocultural, and lifestyle factors among Asian immigrant women in Korea. Data were collected from physical measurements and standardized questionnaires from 287 adult women from China, Vietnam, the Philippines, and other Asian countries. The mean BMI (body mass index) was 22.0 kg/m2; 15.0% of the sample were obese (BMI ≥ 25.0), and 17.1% were overweight (23.0 ≤ BMI < 25.0). The highest obesity proportion was found in Filipino (22.0%) and the lowest in Vietnamese women (7.8%). Adjusted for demographic, sociocultural, and lifestyle variables, individuals with greater length of residence (5+ years; odds ratio = 3.22, P = .010) were more likely to be obese or overweight. For prevention of excess body weight, public health efforts need to be targeted to immigrants starting at arrival in Korea.
The Future of Health Care
Authors: Kumar Amenda , Johnson Shanthi , Kamalanabhan T. J.
Published: August 2011

This study examined the students’ perceptions on the care of the older persons and their education and training in geriatrics and gerontology in India. Students (n = 229) from medicine, nursing, and social work programs completed a survey. Three key findings emerged: ( a) strong family ties and filial piety in aging care, ( b) acknowledging the importance of social, economic, and religious factors in the care of the older persons while not recognizing the age-related health needs, and ( c) although participants described their education and training as being adequate, lack of awareness of aging policies highlight the need for formalized educational and training opportunities.
Job Strain and Family Well-being Among Public Health Nurses in Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, Thailand
Authors: Jirapongsuwan Ann , Likitpornswan Orawan , Triamchaisri Somporn K. , Chandanasotthi Pimsupa
Published: August 2011

This study aimed to examine job strain and family well-being among public health nurses. A total of 239 public health nurses participated in the study. Data were collected using a questionnaire. One-way ANOVA and Pearson’s correlation coefficients were used to assess the association of each factor with family well-being. It was found that there was a correlation between job strain and family well-being. Individual and family factors were also associated with family well-being. In all, 67% of nurses had a high rating for family well-being. A large portion of nurses belonged to the category of “active job” (51.5%). More than 50% of nurses were exposed to high “job demand” and 97.5% were in high “job control.” The study suggests that nurses should be promoted with the ability to be in authority and display decision-making skills and should receive support and encouragement from supervisors and coworkers in order to improve family well-being.
Improving General Practitioners’ Knowledge Regarding Blood Pressure Measurement in Selected Cities of Pakistan Through Workshop
Authors: Mujtaba Syed Hasnain , Ashraf Tariq , Anjum Qudsia
Published: August 2011

The objective of this study was to evaluate enhancement in the knowledge of general practitioners (GPs), from the urban cities in the province of Sindh, Pakistan, regarding blood pressure measurement through workshop. This was a quasi-experimental study that involved GPs from 5 cities of Sindh province, Pakistan. The GPs were required to complete a pretested self-administered questionnaire before and after the workshop session. The questionnaire included few demographic variables and 17 questions based on the American Heart Association recommendations. The mean pretest and posttest scores were compared using Student’s t test. A total of 350 GPs returned completed questionnaires, with a preponderance of males (n = 264, 75.4%) than females (n = 86, 24.6%). The mean correct responses increased significantly after the workshop session from 8 ± 2.1 to 14 ± 2.5 ( P = .01). The knowledge of GPs was almost doubled after the workshop and was significantly different for variables such as qualification, affiliation with teaching hospital, and number of years of practice ( P = .001). This survey, a representation of GPs from the Sindh province, indicated a significant doubling in knowledge after the workshop, proving that continuing medical education sessions play an important role in increasing awareness and staying updated.
Comparison of the Modified Chinese Baecke Questionnaire With a 3-Day Activity Diary in a Hong Kong Chinese Population
Authors: Ho Suzanne C. , Yu Ruby , Chan Sophie
Published: August 2011

The aim of this study was to determine the reliability and validity of the modified Chinese Baecke Questionnaire, using a 3-day activity diary as a reference, in Hong Kong Chinese population. A total of 198 Chinese subjects aged 18 to 65 years were recruited in Hong Kong. Validity of the questionnaire was assessed using a 3-day activity diary as the reference method. Two-week test–retest reliability was also evaluated. Good reliability for the modified Chinese Baecke Questionnaire was demonstrated (correlation coefficients ranged from 0.65 to 0.90). Cohen’s κ was 41.0% for men and 56.7% for women. High correlation between the weighted total index computed from the questionnaire and daily energy expenditure obtained from the diaries ( r = 0.61) was demonstrated ( r = 0.56, P < .01 for men and r = 0.59, P < .01 for women). Overall, 2.1% and 4.8% gross misclassifications were found for men and women, respectively. In conclusion, the modified Chinese Baecke Questionnaire was found to be reliable and valid for measuring habitual physical activity in the Hong Kong Chinese adult population.
Improving Adolescent Reproductive Health in Asia and the Pacific
Authors: Gray Natalie , Azzopardi Peter , Kennedy Elissa , Willersdorf Elise , Creati Mick
Published: August 2011

Data on adolescent reproductive health (ARH) are required to inform evidence-based policies and programs. The reports of national-level household surveys such as the Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) and Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) are important sources of such data in developing countries. The aim of this study was to map data on ARH from DHS and MICS reports from selected countries in the Asia and Pacific regions. The DHS and MICS reports for Bangladesh, Cambodia, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Solomon Islands, Timor-Leste, Vanuatu, and Vietnam were reviewed. Data on 128 indicators, including ARH outcomes, outcomes for babies of adolescent mothers, and adolescents’ access to health information and services, were mapped. Available data are limited because of the omission of cohorts such as young adolescents (10-14 years old) and, in many surveys, unmarried women; the omission of important indicators; and failure to report data disaggregated by age. DHS and MICS reports have limited capacity to inform policy and programs to improve ARH. A review of DHS and MICS sampling strategies and reporting templates, and a consideration of alternative data collection strategies, are warranted.
Physiological and Behavioral Factors Related to Physical Activity in Black Women With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Allen Nancy A. , Melkus Gail D. , Chyun Deborah A.
Published: August 2011

Purpose: To describe relationships among physical activity (PA), physiological factors, and psychological factors in Black women with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods: A cross-sectional design was used ( N = 109). Data were collected on PA (activity/inactivity, TV hours, bed confinement), physiology (blood pressure, lipids, hemoglobin A1c), psychology (anxiety, emotional distress, physical functioning, bodily pain, vitality), and health care provider (HCP) support. Results: Walking was the preferred PA; TV viewing averaged 3.7 hours/day, and 24% reported confinement to bed >1 week in the last year. Inactive women had greater physiological and psychological problems than active women. Women watching TV >2 hours/day had more physiological problems than women watching TV <2 hours/day. Women reporting >1 week of confinement to bed in the last year had more physiological and psychological problems than those confined to bed <1 week. Conclusions: PA interventions in Black women with T2DM should promote walking, address TV viewing time, incorporate HCP’s role of PA counseling/support, and address several psychological factors.
Acculturation and Health-Related Quality of Life Among Vietnamese Immigrant Women in Transnational Marriages in Taiwan
Authors: Yang Yung-Mei , Wang Hsiu-Hung
Published: August 2011

Purpose: To examine associations between demographic variables, acculturation, and health-related quality of life among Vietnamese immigrant women in transnational marriages in Taiwan. Design: A cross-sectional survey of 203 participants in southern Taiwan. Instruments included a demographic inventory, the Suinn–Lew Asian Self-Identity Acculturation Scale, and the Short Form Health Survey–Version 2. Findings: Most participants had low acculturation levels. Length of residency, number of children, marital status, level of education, religion of spouse, and employment status of spouse significantly correlated with level of acculturation, as did mental health, bodily pain, vitality, and social functioning. Discussion and Conclusion: Programs are needed to encourage social assimilation for Vietnamese immigrant women in Taiwan. Culturally sensitive medical evaluations will ensure early treatment of mental and physical health problems caused by the stress of acculturation. Implications for Practice: An increased understanding of variables affecting Southeast Asian immigrant women’s acculturation process will improve health status.
The Experience of Quality of Life for Caregivers of People With Alzheimer’s Disease Living in Sardinia, Italy
Authors: Vellone Ercole , Piras Giovanni , Venturini Giulia , Alvaro Rosaria , Cohen Marlene Z.
Published: August 2011

Purpose:This study explored the meaning of quality of life (QOL) for Sardinian caregivers of people affected with Alzheimer’s disease and factors improving and worsening their QOL. Design: The phenomenological method was used to study 41 Alzheimer’s disease caregivers living on the western coast of Sardinia, Italy. Interviews were conducted and analyzed using Cohen, Kahn, and Steeves’s approach. Findings: Extracted themes were the following: unity and cooperation in the family; freedom/independence; having time for themselves; serenity/tranquility; and well-being and health. Caregivers identified factors that they believed worsened or improved their QOL. Family was particularly important for these caregivers. Discussion and Practice Implications: This study reinforces previous research about cultural influence on QOL and emphasizes the importance of nurses being culturally sensitive. Since Sardinia is a rural region, these findings may be useful for nurses working with caregivers in other rural settings.
Influence of aspect ratio on effective electromechanical coupling of nanocomposites with lead zirconate titanate nanowire inclusion
Authors: Andrews Clark , Lin Yirong , Tang Haixiong , Sodano Henry A.
Published: August 2011

Piezoelectric ceramics offer exceptional sensing and actuation properties, however, they are prone to breakage and are difficult to apply to curved surfaces in their monolithic form. One method to alleviate these issues is through the use of 0–3 active composites, which are formed by embedding piezoelectric particles into a polymer matrix that protects the ceramic from breaking under mechanical loading. This class of material offers certain advantages over monolithic materials; however, they have seen little use due to the low electromechanical coupling offered by these materials. Here, we demonstrate that by controlling the aspect ratio of the filler, the electromechanical coupling coefficient can be significantly improved. For all volume fractions tested, nanocomposites with high aspect ratio lead nanowires filler had higher coupling with increases as large as 2.3 times. Furthermore, the nanocomposite’s coupling was more than 50% of the piezoceramic fillers’ when nanowires were used.
Space Application of Piezoelectric Wafer Active Sensors for Structural Health Monitoring
Authors: Giurgiutiu V. , Lin B. , Santoni-Bottai G. , Cuc A.
Published: August 2011

Piezoelectric wafer active sensors (PWAS) are lightweight and inexpensive enablers for a large class of structural health monitoring (SHM) applications. This paper presents and discusses the challenges and opportunities related to the use of PWAS in the structures specific to space applications. The challenges posed by space structures are often different from those encountered in conventional structures. After a review of PWAS principles, the paper discusses the multi-physics power and energy transduction between structurally guided waves and PWAS; predictive modeling results using a simplified analytical approach are presented. Experimental results on space-like specimen structures are presented. Survivability of PWAS transducers under cryogenic space-like conditions is experimentally verified. The paper ends with conclusions and suggestions for further work.
Aero-Structural Optimization and Performance Evaluation of a Morphing Wing with Variable Span and Camber
Authors: Vale J. , Leite A. , Lau F. , Suleman A.
Published: August 2011

An aero-structural design and analysis study of a telescopic wing with a conformal camber morphing capability is presented. An aerodynamic analysis of a telescoping wing, first with a high speed airfoil followed by an analysis with a low speed airfoil is performed. The data obtained from these analyses is used to determine the optimum polar curves for drag reduction at different speeds. This information in turn provided the background for devising an optimal morphing strategy for drag reduction assuming that the telescoping wing airfoil has the capability to step morph between the high and low speed airfoils. Next, a conformal camber morphing concept is introduced. The concept is based on a non-uniform thickness distribution along the chord of a wing shell section that deforms from a symmetrical airfoil shape into a cambered airfoil shape under actuation. Structural optimization based on finite element models is used to obtain the shell thickness distribution for minimum shell section weight and best airfoil shape adjustment. Finally, a comparison study between the performance of an aircraft equipped with a morphing wing (telescopic wing combined with conformal camber morphing) and the performance of the same aircraft equipped with an optimized fixed wing for 30 m/s cruise speed and 100 N weight is presented. Aerodynamic optimization based on computational fluid dynamics models is used for the optimum fixed wing geometric parameters calculations. The optimal wing configurations for various performance parameters are calculated. The morphing wing generally outperforms the optimum fixed wing with the exception of a 10% reduction in rate of climb and 4% drag penalty at 30 m/s cruise speed.
Improving Relationship Satisfaction—Qualitative Insights Derived From Individuals Currently Within a Couple Relationship
Authors: Coleman Lester M.
Published: August 2011

Given the prevalence of relationship breakdown, and the unequivocal association with poor outcomes, ways in which to improve relationship satisfaction are of great importance. Derived from in-depth interviews with 112 individuals in a couple relationship, this study aims to explore and understand different beliefs and perceived capabilities toward improving couple relationships. Adopting an iterative, holistic approach to the thematic analysis, the findings initially emerged through people describing their current level of relationship satisfaction. By placing people’s meanings and interpretations within their own realities of their relationship “state,” participants were further distinguished by whether they held a more “developmental” or “nondevelopmental” relationship perspective. Relative to those with a “nondevelopmental” perspective, the “developmental” group perceived relationship change as positive, believed they had control to alter the course of their relationship for the better, recognized the importance of the relationship future, and saw the potential benefits of formal relationship support. The “developmental” group was more motivated to address relationship improvement and was aware of what made their own relationship endure. While contextualizing the research within its limitations and alongside previous research, the implications are centered on fostering a more “developmental” perspective by increasing knowledge and awareness about relationships, through a universal early intervention approach.
Can party competition amplify mass ideological polarization over public policy? The case of ethnic exclusionism in Denmark and Sweden
Authors: Jensen Carsten , Thomsen Jens Peter Frølund
Published: August 2011

It is commonplace to see political parties as fundamentally constrained by public opinion. By contrast, this paper argues that party competition amplifies mass ideological polarization over public policy. Specifically, the investigation concerns the relationship between mass-level ideology and ethnic exclusionism (the call for harsh immigration policies). As party competition intensifies, this relationship strengthens. The party competition thesis is tested by performing a comparative study of Denmark and Sweden. Unlike their Danish counterparts, Swedish political parties have, most of the time, refused to take opposed stands on immigration policy. In effect, the empirical data show that the individual-level association between self-reported ideology and ethnic exclusionism is considerably stronger in Denmark than in Sweden. To investigate the party competition effect in depth, both longitudinal analyses and a cross-sectional analysis are performed. Data cover the period 1990-2008.
Traumatic abdominal intercostal hernia without diaphragmatic injury
Authors: Ryan Geoffrey , Cavallucci David
Published: August 2011

A hernia through an intercostal space involving the bowel is rare but can result in strangulation of the bowel if not diagnosed promptly. We report a case of bowel herniation through the left 9th intercostal space after blunt trauma in a motor vehicle collision. A mass was present overlying the left lower anterolateral chest wall thought to be a haematoma, but it was eventually diagnosed as an intercostal hernia after CT imaging. The treatment for this injury included diagnostic laparoscopy to rule out other abdominal injuries and local repair of the defect. This report discusses the current literature regarding diagnosis and treatment of this rare phenomenon.
Experimental determination of yarn pull-out properties of para-aramid (Kevlar®) woven fabric
Authors: Bilisik Kadir
Published: August 2011

The aim of this study was to determine the pull-out properties of the para-aramid woven fabrics. Para-aramid Kevlar 29® (K29) and Kevlar 129® (K129) woven fabrics were used to conduct the pull-out tests. K29 and K129 woven fabrics had high and low fabric densities, respectively. For this reason, yarn pull-out fixture was developed to test various K29 and K129 fabric sample dimensions. Data generated from single and multiple yarn pull-out tests in various dimensions of K29 and K129 woven fabrics included fabric pull-out forces, yarn crimp extensions in the fabrics, and fabric displacements. Yarn pull-out forces depended on fabric density, fabric sample dimensions, and the number of pulled ends in the fabric. Multiple yarn pull-out force was higher than single yarn pull-out force. Single- and multiple-yarn pull-out forces in K29 (tight fabric) were higher than those of K129 (loose fabric). Yarn crimp extension in K29 and K129 fabrics depended on crimp ratio in the fabrics and fabric density. High crimp ratio fabrics showed high yarn crimp extension compared to that of the low crimp ratio fabrics. Long fabric samples also showed high yarn crimp extension compared to that of the short fabrics. Fabric displacement in K29 and K129 fabrics depended on fabric sample dimensions and the number of pulled yarns. Long fabric samples showed high fabric displacement compared to that of short fabric samples. Fabric displacement from multiple yarn pull-out test was also higher than that of the single yarn pull-out test. It was considered that fabric pull-out properties can play important roles for absorption of impact load due to the yarn frictions in the fabric structures.
Cannabis normalization and stigma: Contemporary practices of moral regulation
Authors: Hathaway Andrew D. , Comeau Natalie C. , Erickson Patricia G.
Published: August 2011

Cannabis (marijuana) has undergone a normalizing process as indicated by high use rates, social tolerance, and broader cultural acceptance of its use in many countries. Yet, consistent with its status as a banned drug, users still face the threat of legal sanctions and experiences of stigma that challenge the assumptions of the normalization thesis. In this paper we shed light on extra-legal forms of stigma based on in-depth interviews with marijuana users ( N = 92) randomly recruited in the city of Toronto. Notwithstanding indications of a normalizing process in respondents’ understanding and experience of use, mainstream conventional perspectives about cannabis as risky, even marginal or deviant, were prominent as well. The findings are interpreted with reference to Goffman’s (1963) theoretical distinction between normalization and the more apt description of normification reflected in the attitudes of marijuana users. Consistent with the latter term, these data indicate that stigma is internalized by users which results in the active reinforcement and performance of established cultural requirements emphasizing self-control.
Certolizumab pegol for the treatment of Crohn’s disease
Authors: Schreiber Stefan
Published: August 2011

In this article we provide a contemporary overview of available clinical data on certolizumab pegol, a pegylated anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF) alpha agent that comprises a uniquely small protein, and its emerging role as a therapy for Crohn’s disease (CD). The results from a comprehensive clinical trial program suggest that certolizumab pegol offers rapid and sustained remission of moderate to severe CD. Certolizumab pegol is an effective and well-tolerated therapy both in patients who have already received biologics and in patients who are anti-TNF naïve. Benefits of therapy include a stable dosing regimen, which allows for rapid induction of a clinical response followed by long-term maintenance of response and remission under one fixed dose. Treatment with certolizumab pegol has been shown to improve function and quality of life in patients with CD, and insights into the potential mechanisms by which certolizumab pegol effects a response in CD suggest that this agent may have the potential to slow or even modify disease progression. Early therapy is particularly effective and could help control CD progression and lessen the burden of disease on patients.
Hand hygiene knowledge and attitudes: comparisons between student nurses
Authors: Kennedy M , Burnett E
Published: August 2011

It is recognised that early intervention in healthcare workers’ education is important in terms of embedding effective infection prevention and control knowledge into practice. One of the most important aspects of this education is hand hygiene compliance and technique expectations. This small study was undertaken in collaboration with the University of Dundee, School of Nursing and Midwifery and NHS Tayside. It explored the differences in knowledge, attitudes and practice towards hand hygiene among second and third year student nurses with the aim of reviewing and informing the development of future educational material at undergraduate level in order to continually enhance knowledge and skills and bridge the theory–practice gap. This study concluded that third year student nurses did have a slightly better knowledge base than the second years and that although knowledge, attitudes and practice were reported to be of a good standard overall, there were still some important issues that must be addressed.
Community nurses’ wound audit – a proxy measure for surgical site infections?
Authors: King Debbie
Published: August 2011

Surveillance of surgical site infections is an important element of infection prevention programmes. With the changing landscape of health care and patients being discharged earlier from hospital after surgery, understanding the true impact of infection is challenging. This short paper describes how one trust tried to tackle this problem by identifying the value of community nurses’ wound caseload audit as a proxy measure for surgical site infections.
Day-to-Day Changes in Intimacy Predict Heightened Relationship Passion, Sexual Occurrence, and Sexual Satisfaction
Authors: Rubin Harris , Campbell Lorne
Published: August 2011

The current research tested a model proposed by Baumeister and Bratslavsky (1999) suggesting that passion’s association with intimacy is best understood as being linked with changes in intimacy over time. Within this framework, when intimacy shows relatively large and rapid increases, levels of passion should be high. When intimacy remains unchanged over time, levels of passionate experience should be low. To test this hypothesis, 67 heterosexual couples involved in long-term relationships completed daily measures of intimacy, passion, and sexual satisfaction for 21 consecutive days. Analyses guided by the actor–partner interdependence model ( Kenny, Kashy, & Cook, 2006 ) demonstrated that day-to-day changes in intimacy for both partners predicted relationship passion, sexual frequency, and sexual satisfaction in a manner conforming to Baumeister and Bratslavksy’s model. These results represent the first empirical support for this model of intimacy and passionate experience.
Praise Is Reciprocated With Tangible Benefits
Authors: Matsumura Asami , Ohtsubo Yohsuke
Published: August 2011

A recent study in the field of neuroscience showed that a class of symbolic resources (praise) activated the brain’s reward circuitry, which was similarly activated by monetary resources. This result implies that the two distinct classes of resources are mutually exchangeable. The present experiment addressed this possibility by comparing four conditions. Participants in the praise condition received a positive evaluation and decided how much money they would give to the evaluator, while participants in the no praise condition did not receive any evaluation. To distinguish the effect of praise from positive mood effect, participants in the positive mood condition decided how much money they would give to someone other than the evaluator. To explore the differential effects of praise and flattery, participants in the flattery condition were led to suspect the intention of the evaluator. Participants in the praise condition behaved more generously than those in the other three conditions.
Discovery of serum biomarkers of alcoholic fatty liver in a rodent model: C-reactive protein
Authors: Liu Shu-Lin , Cheng Chun-Chia , Chang Chun-Chao , Mai Fu-Der , Wang Chia-Chi , Lee Shui-Cheng , Ho Ai-Sheng , Chen Ling-Yun , Chang Jungshan
Published: August 2011

Background

Excessive consumption of alcohol contributes to alcoholic liver disease. Fatty liver is the early stage of alcohol-related liver disease. The aim of this study was to search for specific serological biomarkers of alcoholic fatty liver (AFL) compared to healthy controls, non-alcoholic fatty liver (NAFL) and liver fibrosis in a rodent model.

Methods

Serum samples derived from animals with AFL, NAFL, or liver fibrosis were characterized and compared using two-dimensional differential gel electrophoresis. A matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight tandem mass spectrometer in conjunction with mascot software was used for protein identification. Subsequently, Western blotting and flexible multi-analyte profiling were used to measure the expressions of the putative biomarkers present in the serum of animals and clinical patients.

Results

Eight differential putative biomarkers were identified, and the two most differentiated proteins, including upregulated C-reactive protein (CRP) and downregulated haptoglobin (Hp), were further investigated. Western blotting validated that CRP was dramatically higher in the serum of AFL compared to healthy controls and other animals with liver disease of NAFL or liver fibrosis (p < 0.05). Moreover, we found that CRP and Hp were both lower in liver fibrosis of TAA-induced rats and clinical hepatitis C virus-infected patients.

Conclusion

The results suggest that increased levels of CRP are an early sign of AFL in rats. The abnormally elevated CRP induced by ethanol can be used as a biomarker to distinguish AFL from normal or otherwise diseased livers.
Link-based quantitative methods to identify differentially coexpressed genes and gene Pairs
Authors: Yu Hui , Liu Bao-Hong , Ye Zhi-Qiang , Li Chun , Li Yi-Xue , Li Yuan-Yuan
Published: August 2011

Background

Differential coexpression analysis (DCEA) is increasingly used for investigating the global transcriptional mechanisms underlying phenotypic changes. Current DCEA methods mostly adopt a gene connectivity-based strategy to estimate differential coexpression, which is characterized by comparing the numbers of gene neighbors in different coexpression networks. Although it simplifies the calculation, this strategy mixes up the identities of different coexpression neighbors of a gene, and fails to differentiate significant differential coexpression changes from those trivial ones. Especially, the correlation-reversal is easily missed although it probably indicates remarkable biological significance.

Results

We developed two link-based quantitative methods, DCp and DCe, to identify differentially coexpressed genes and gene pairs (links). Bearing the uniqueness of exploiting the quantitative coexpression change of each gene pair in the coexpression networks, both methods proved to be superior to currently popular methods in simulation studies. Re-mining of a publicly available type 2 diabetes (T2D) expression dataset from the perspective of differential coexpression analysis led to additional discoveries than those from differential expression analysis.

Conclusions

This work pointed out the critical weakness of current popular DCEA methods, and proposed two link-based DCEA algorithms that will make contribution to the development of DCEA and help extend it to a broader spectrum.
NMD and microRNA expression profiling of the HPCX1 locus reveal MAGEC1 as a candidate prostate cancer predisposition gene
Authors: Mattila Henna , Schindler Martin , Isotalo Jarkko , Ikonen Tarja , Vihinen Mauno , Oja Hannu , Tammela Teuvo LJ , Wahlfors Tiina , Schleutker Johanna
Published: August 2011

Background

Several predisposition loci for hereditary prostate cancer (HPC) have been suggested, including HPCX1 at Xq27-q28, but due to the complex structure of the region, the susceptibility gene has not yet been identified.

Methods

In this study, nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD) inhibition was used for the discovery of truncating mutations. Six prostate cancer (PC) patients and their healthy brothers were selected from a group of HPCX1-linked families. Expression analyses were done using Agilent 44 K oligoarrays, and selected genes were screened for mutations by direct sequencing. In addition, microRNA expression levels in the lymphoblastic cells were analyzed to trace variants that might alter miRNA expression and explain partly an inherited genetic predisposion to PC.

Results

Seventeen genes were selected for resequencing based on the NMD array, but no truncating mutations were found. The most interesting variant was MAGEC1 p.Met1?. An association was seen between the variant and unselected PC (OR = 2.35, 95% CI = 1.10-5.02) and HPC (OR = 3.38, 95% CI = 1.10-10.40). miRNA analysis revealed altogether 29 miRNAs with altered expression between the PC cases and controls. miRNA target analysis revealed that 12 of them also had possible target sites in the MAGEC1 gene. These miRNAs were selected for validation process including four miRNAs located in the X chromosome. The expressions of 14 miRNAs were validated in families that contributed to the significant signal differences in Agilent arrays.

Conclusions

Further functional studies are needed to fully understand the possible contribution of these miRNAs and MAGEC1 start codon variant to PC.