bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A configuration-based approach to integrating dynamic capabilities and market transformation in small and medium-sized enterprises to achieve firm performance
Authors: Rice John , Liao Tung-Shan , Galvin Peter , Martin Nigel
Published: August 2013

This article develops and tests a model integrating dynamic organisational capabilities, market transformation arrangements and firm performance. This model addresses weaknesses in previous empirical research by integrating accumulation and path dependency in measures of dynamic capabilities. Using a sample of 444 small and medium-sized Australian manufacturing firms, the study finds that performance is driven by the successful deployment of dynamic capabilities; such performance is mediated by purposeful market transformation strategies.
Evaluation of gadolinium-EOB-DTPA uptake after portal vein embolization: value of an increased flip angle
Authors: Geisel Dominik , Lüdemann Lutz , Wagner Clemens , Stelter Lars , Grieser Christian , Malinowski Maciej , Stockmann Martin , Seehofer Daniel , Hamm Bernd , Gebauer Bernhard , Denecke Timm
Published: August 2013

Background

The optimal sequence for Gd-EOB-DTPA uptake measurement in the liver with the purpose of liver function measurement is still not defined.

Purpose

To prospectively evaluate the effect of an increased flip angle (FA) of a T1-weighted fat-saturated 3D sequence for the measurement of hepatocyte uptake of Gd-EOB-DTPA magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) after right portal vein embolization (PVE).

Material and Methods

Ten patients who received a PVE prior to an extended hemihepatectomy were examined 14 days after PVE using Gd-EOB-DTPA enhanced MRI of the liver using the standard FA of 10° and the increased FA of 30°.

Results

Relative enhancement of the right liver lobe (RLL) was 0.52 ± 0.12 for 10° and 1.41 ± 0.39 for 30°. Relative enhancement of the left liver lobe (LLL) was 0.58 ± 0.11 for 10° and 2.05 ± 0.61 for 30°. Relative enhancement of the RLL was significantly higher for 30° than for 10° ( P = 0.009) and significantly higher in the 30° than in the 10° sequences ( P = 0.005) for the LLL.

Conclusion

A flip angle of 30° increases the contrast between liver partitions with and without portal venous embolization. Thereby, the sensitivity for differences in uptake intensity is increased. This could be of value for a more exact determination of differences in regional liver function and, consequently, the estimation of the future remnant liver function.
N-terminal prohormone B-type natriuretic peptide and weaning outcome in postoperative patients with pulmonary complications
Authors: Ma Gang , Liao Wei , Qiu Junke , Su Quanguan , Fang Yi , Gu Baochun
Published: August 2013

Objective

To evaluate the relationship between plasma N-terminal prohormone B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and weaning outcomes, and the ability of NT-proBNP level to predict weaning success, in cancer patients with pulmonary complications undergoing noncardiac major surgeries.

Methods

Patients who were mechanically ventilated following postoperative respiratory failure were enrolled. NT-proBNP levels at the end of a 2-h spontaneous breathing trial were measured. Weaning was considered a success in patients who completed the trial and maintained spontaneous breathing following extubation for >48 h.

Results

Out of 29 patients, 22 patients weaned successfully but weaning failed in 7 patients. Plasma NT-proBNP was significantly higher in the weaning failure group than in the weaning success group. For predicting weaning success, the optimal NT-proBNP threshold value at the end of the spontaneous breathing trial was <448 ng/l (receiver operating characteristic analysis; sensitivity 68.18%, specificity 85.71%, positive predictive value 93.7% and negative predictive value 46.2%).

Conclusion

Measuring NT-proBNP at the end of a spontaneous breathing trial may assist in predicting weaning success, as a noninvasive, quantitative and repeatable indicator of cardiac stress in patients with postsurgical respiratory failure.
Health geography I
Authors: Rosenberg Mark
Published: August 2013

Health geographers have generally been content to adopt measures of distance, access and the lack of resources as the metrics of social (in)justice without critically placing their research in a framework of social justice. The purpose of this review is twofold: first, to examine recent research in health geography under three themes – access to care, neighbourhoods, and health and environmental justice; second, to introduce a debate about idealist theory as a way of introducing a theory of social justice into health geography which might prove valuable to underpin what many health geographers are trying to do in their research on access to care, neighbourhoods, and health and environmental justice.
Global environmental change I
Authors: Brown Katrina
Published: August 2013

Resilience is everywhere in contemporary debates about global environmental change. The application of resilience concepts to social and ecological systems and dilemmas has been roundly critiqued for under-theorizing social dimensions, and human geographers particularly have been an important critical voice in highlighting the omission of social, political and cultural dynamics from different resilience literatures. Here I examine whether and how resilience theory and applications are addressing these shortcomings and incorporating these social and political dimensions. My premise is that within the emerging field of resilience there are many voices expressing multiple and often contested interpretations and meanings. The field is rapidly evolving and new ideas are being tested and introduced. Importantly, resilience is here to stay and is being widely taken up and applied in policy and practice. I review theoretical and empirical published research across fields of geography, environmental change, natural resource management, and international development, concentrating on new work since 2010. I examine three emerging topics: community resilience; transformations; and resilience as an organizing concept for radical change. I find that there is still relatively little analysis of social difference and resilience, and there are continuing tensions between normative and analytical stances on resilience. These characteristics are mirrored in policy discourses and local level actions on resilience.
Reinforcing wood–plastic composites with macro- and micro-sized cellulosic fillers: Comparative analysis
Authors: Turku Irina , Kärki Timo
Published: August 2013

The application area of wood–plastic composites is growing rapidly, which is reflected in massive research activity. In the present study, comparative analysis of cellulosic fillers of different macro- and micro-sized particles in reinforcing polypropylene-based wood–plastic composites is performed. The mechanical properties of composites manufactured with three different types of spruce wood flour (coarse, 20-mesh and Arbocel C320) particles are compared. The study shows that composites with 20-mesh wood flour have better tensile, flexural and impact properties. The possibility of using a microfibrillated cellulose as the reinforcing filler in wood–plastic composite is also studied. The combination of microfibrillated cellulose (10 wt%) with coarse wood flour resulted in improvement in almost all mechanical parameters of the wood–plastic composite. In addition, it is shown that a wood–plastic composite manufactured using pure cellulose fibres has the weakest mechanical properties. The water absorption and thickness swelling of the composite, as well as the durability of the composites exposed to three cycles of water immersion, freezing and thawing are observed. The microstructure of the composites is examined by scanning electron microscope. The superior properties of microfibrillated cellulose-containing wood–plastic composites are described for the first time.
Effects of administration of subtoxic doses of acetaminophen on liver and blood levels of insulin-like growth factor-1 in rats
Authors: Ozdemir Durgul , Aksu Ilkay , Baykara Basak , Ates Mehmet , Sisman Ali Riza , Kiray Muge , Buyuk Arzu , Uysal Nazan
Published: August 2013

Acetaminophen (APAP) is widely used in the treatment of pain. Toxic doses of APAP cause acute liver failure, but therapeutic doses are believed to be safe. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of administration of subtoxic doses of APAP on liver and blood levels of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) in rats. Low dose (100 mg/kg) and high dose (250 mg/kg) of APAP were intraperitoneally injected into Wistar albino rats. Following administration of therapeutic doses of APAP, there were no significant changes in serum transaminases and liver glutathione levels. Both doses of APAP induced a decrease in liver and blood levels of IGF-1 when compared with the controls. There was no significant difference in liver IGF-1 levels between the high-dose and low-dose APAP groups; however, there was a significant difference in blood IGF-1 levels between both the groups. The histological examination showed that low dose of APAP induced mild degree of structural change, while high dose of APAP induced severe structural damage. In conclusion, these results suggest that blood IGF-1 levels may have a value in predicting hepatic damage resulting from therapeutic doses of APAP.
Properties of heat-treated sisal fiber/polylactide composites
Authors: Huang Can-Jun , Li Xiang-Li , Zhang Ye-Qing , Feng Yan-Hong , Qu Jin-Ping , He He-Zhi , Shen Han-Zhi
Published: August 2013

Sisal fibers (SFs) were pretreated by heat treatment (HT). The SFs were mixed with a biodegradable material, polylactide (PLA), and the composites were prepared by hot press molding. The effects of the HT temperature and time on the mechanical properties of the composites were investigated, and the HT mechanism was studied by scanning electron microscopy and infrared, x-ray photoelectron, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopies. The results show that an appropriate HT can remove strongly hydrophilic materials such as hemicelluloses from the fibers, and thus decrease their hydrophilicity, thereby improving the retting between the fibers and the matrix. This improves fiber–matrix interfacial adhesion, which can improve the mechanical properties of the composites. The HT also influences the fiber strength to some extent and affects the mechanical properties of composites.
The preparation and tribological properties of thermoplastic self-assembled composite film filled with carbon nanotubes
Authors: Qi Yong , Cheng XH
Published: August 2013

Rare earth solution (RES) surface modification and acid treatment methods were used to functionalize carbon nanotubes (CNTs). CNT composite thin films were prepared on hydroxylated glass substrates by a self-assembling process from specially formulated solution. Atomic force microscopy, x-ray photoelectron spectrometry, and scanning electron microscopy were used to characterize the thin films. Tribological properties of the CNT thin films sliding against a steel ball were evaluated on a friction and wear tester. The experimental results showed that the friction coefficient of the glass substrate was reduced from 0.85 to 0.1 after the formation of CNT composite self-assembled film on its surface, and the film exhibited good wear resistant property. The superior friction reduction and wear resistance of CNT composite films were attributed to the improvement of load-bearing capacity afforded by the chemical bond between CNTs and the films as well as good adhesion of the films to the substrate.
Wood plastic composites
Authors: Lin Ching-Wen , Lin Zheng-Yan , Lou Ching-Wen , Kuo Tung-Lung , Lin Jia-Horng
Published: August 2013

This study uses coir from agricultural waste, electromagnetic shielding carbon fiber, impact-resistant polypropylene (PP), and methylmaleic anhydride- grafted PP (MA- g-PP) to make wood plastic composites (WPCs). According to the experimental results, when coir and carbon fiber are at a ratio of 3:12, the resulting WPC exhibits an maximum electromagnetic shielding effectiveness (EMSE) of −25 dB, which reaches the protective grade of staple merchandise. At fibers ratio of 3:12, the tensile strength is improved by 10% more than at ratio of 15:0; and the increased flexural strength is by 20% accordingly. A multiblending process is used to simulate the recycling and explores its thermodestruction of the resulting WPC. With a ratio of 3:12, the WPC still has an EMSE of −25 dB at nine cycles of multiblending; however, its tensile and flexural strengths both decrease by 10%.
A novel algorithm for fuzzy rule induction in data mining
Authors: Afify AA
Published: August 2013

Rule induction as a method of constructing classifiers is of particular interest to data mining because it generates models in the form of If-Then rules which are more expressive and easier for humans to comprehend and check. Several induction algorithms have been developed to learn classification rules. However, most of these algorithms are based on ‘crisp’ data and produce ‘crisp’ models. This paper presents FuzzySRI, a novel algorithm based on the techniques of fuzzy sets and fuzzy logic for inducing fuzzy classification rules. The algorithm possesses the clear knowledge representation capability of rule induction methods and the ability of fuzzy techniques to handle vague information. Experimental results show that FuzzySRI can outperform other fuzzy and non-fuzzy learning systems in terms of predictive accuracy, comprehensibility, and computational efficiency. It is also shown that FuzzySRI can be successfully applied to an industrial application concerning the automatic identification of machine faults.
Effects of longer heavy vehicles on traffic congestion
Authors: Morrison Graeme , Roebuck Richard L , Cebon David
Published: August 2013

Two-lane, “microscopic” (vehicle-by-vehicle) simulations of motorway traffic are developed using existing models and validated using measured data from the M25 motorway. An energy consumption model is also built in, which takes the logged trajectories of simulated vehicles as drive-cycles. The simulations are used to investigate the effects on motorway congestion and fuel consumption if “longer and/or heavier vehicles” (LHVs) were to be permitted in the UK.

Baseline scenarios are simulated with traffic composed of cars, light goods vehicles and standard heavy goods vehicles (HGVs). A proportion of conventional articulated HGVs is then replaced by a smaller number of LHVs carrying the same total payload mass and volume. Four LHV configurations are investigated: an 18.75 m, 46 t longer semi-trailer (LST); 25.25 m, 50 t and 60 t B-doubles and a 34 m, 82 t A-double. Metrics for congestion, freight fleet energy consumption and car energy consumption are defined for comparing the scenarios. Finally, variation of take-up level and LHV engine power for the LST and A-double are investigated.

It is concluded that: (a) LHVs should reduce congestion particularly in dense traffic, however, a low mean proportion of freight traffic on UK roads and low take-up levels will limit this effect to be almost negligible; (b) LHVs can significantly improve the energy efficiency of freight fleets, giving up to a 23% reduction in fleet energy consumption at high take-up levels; (c) the small reduction in congestion caused by LHVs could improve the fuel consumption of other road users by up to 3% in dense traffic, however in free-flowing traffic an opposite effect occurs due to higher vehicle speeds and aerodynamic losses; and (d) underpowered LHVs have potential to generate severe congestion, however current manufacturers’ recommendations appear suitable.
Rheoforging of thin case for IT devices with optimal process parameters and new type die design
Authors: Jeon Yong Phil , Bolouri Amir , Seo Hyung Yoon , Kim Jong Deok , Kang Chung Gil
Published: August 2013

The latest trend in the cell phone component industry to use aluminium and magnesium alloys has resulted in the advanced processing technologies. Semi-solid forming process that is advantageous for the mass production of thin parts with complex shapes have been of interest as a promising tool for near net-shape manufacturing. This study describes a semi-solid forming process for the development of a 1 mm-thick cell phone case by using the rheological material prepared by electromagnetic stirring equipment. Thus, a new type of die design for indirect rheoforging was proposed to efficiently control the primary α-Al phase particles in the thin part under rheological conditions. Their microstructure and mechanical properties were investigated and compared to parts produced without electromagnetic stirring. Those products fabricated by electromagnetic stirring had better mechanical properties and globular microstructures than those fabricated without electromagnetic stirring. Several processing parameters such as punch velocity (30 mm/s), punch pressure (75–250 MPa), stirring time (10 s), and solid fraction (0–20%) were used. The optimal condition that resulted in a defect-free component with the improved mechanical properties was explained and discussed.
Regional importance measures based on failure probability in the presence of epistemic and aleatory uncertainties
Authors: Cheng Lei , Lu Zhenzhou , Li Luyi
Published: August 2013

For the structural systems with both epistemic and aleatory uncertainties, in order to analyze the effects of different regions of epistemic parameters on failure probability, two regional importance measures (RIMs) are firstly proposed, i.e. contribution to mean of failure probability (CMFP) and contribution to variance of failure probability (CVFP), and their properties are analyzed and verified. Then, to analyze the effect of different regions of the epistemic parameters on their corresponding first-order variance (i.e. main effect) in the Sobol’s variance decomposition, another RIM is proposed which is named as contribution to variance of conditional mean of failure probability (CVCFP). The proposed CVCFP is then extended to define another RIM named as contribution to mean of conditional mean of failure probability, i.e. CMCFP, to measure the contribution of regions of epistemic parameters to mean of conditional mean of failure probability. For the problem that the computational cost for calculating the conditional mean of failure probability may be too large to be accepted, the state dependent parameter (SDP) method is introduced to estimate CVCFP and CMCFP. Several examples are used to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed RIMs and the efficiency and accuracy of the SDP-based method are also demonstrated by the examples.
Review of shape-morphing automobile structures: concepts and outlook
Authors: Daynes Stephen , Weaver Paul M
Published: August 2013

The continuous drive for increased fuel efficiency and sustained innovation in the automobile industry requires the adoption of radically new technological advances. Road vehicle aerodynamic design is primarily concerned with reduction in the drag and generation of a downforce. Current trends in both aircraft and wind turbine blade design show significant interest in shape-adaptive (morphing) advanced structural concepts for improved aerodynamic performance or the realization of new functionality. Morphing structures are also of interest because they have the potential to create designs of simple construction and reduced mass. However, there is an inherent contradiction between the need to create compliant structures to keep actuator demands low and the requirement for designing stiff load-carrying structures. This highlights the key design challenge for morphing structures. Ways of addressing these conflicting demands include the use of advanced composite materials which have extremely anisotropic stiffness properties or multistable behaviour. This review provides a perspective on recent developments in research on morphing structures and the potential applications for these emerging technologies in automobile aerodynamic design.
Effect of train-type heterogeneity on single-track heavy haul railway line capacity
Authors: Dingler Mark H , Lai Yung-Cheng (Rex) , Barkan Christopher PL
Published: August 2013

North American heavy haul railroads are experiencing growth in traffic demand and increasingly facing capacity constraints. A key factor influencing railroad operations is heterogeneity in train characteristics. Different train types can have substantially different operating characteristics including maximum speed, power-to-ton ratio and dispatching priority. This heterogeneity causes conflicts between trains that increase delays and reduce capacity. Dispatching simulation software was used to analyze the effect of various combinations of intermodal and bulk trains on a hypothetical, signalized, single-track line with characteristics typical of a North American freight railroad subdivision. This assessment studied the relationship between volume, heterogeneity and delay. Further work identified the key factors that contribute to the increased delays due to heterogeneity. The train characteristics of speed, acceleration, braking and priority were considered for their effect on the increased delays due to heterogeneity. Understanding these factors that affect delay allows for more effective network capacity planning and efficient rail operations. The results also suggest certain railway operating strategies that may reduce the delays caused by train-type heterogeneity thereby improving service reliability.
The design of nonsingular terminal sliding-mode feedback controller based on minimum sliding-mode error
Authors: Cao Lu , Chen Xiaoqian , Sheng Tao
Published: August 2013

To eliminate the effect of the uncertain disturbances and improve the control accuracy of spacecraft Attitude Control System, a nonlinear control algorithm named nonsingular terminal sliding-mode feedback controller is proposed in this work, which is mainly made up of nonsingular terminal sliding-mode controller and sliding-mode feedback controller. In the first place, nonsingular terminal sliding-mode controller is designed, which guarantees global asymptotic convergence of the attitude in the presence of the uncertain perturbations from the space. Despite that, it is the influence of the uncertain disturbances that hinder the control accuracy. Then, in order to promote the control accuracy, the sliding-mode feedback controller based on the principle of minimum sliding-mode error is proposed, which is used to compensate the control errors of the nonsingular terminal sliding-mode controller caused by the uncertainties. Hence, the determination principle of the weighting matrix in sliding-mode feedback controller is discussed, and the algorithm structure of the sliding-mode feedback controller is also analyzed, which provides the theoretical basis for the sliding-mode feedback controller. By contrast, an adaptive fuzzy algorithm is designed and introduced into the nonsingular terminal sliding-mode controller to improve the control accuracy, which named the nonsingular terminal fuzzy sliding-mode controller. Last but not the least, several numerical examples are presented to demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed nonsingular terminal sliding-mode feedback controller. Simulation results confirm that the control accuracy of the nonsingular terminal sliding-mode feedback controller is higher than the nonsingular terminal sliding-mode controller and the same as nonsingular terminal fuzzy sliding-mode controller. Not only is the calculation of the nonsingular terminal fuzzy sliding-mode feedback controller smaller than nonsingular terminal fuzzy sliding-mode controller, the adjusted parameters are also fewer than nonsingular terminal fuzzy sliding-mode controller obviously. The numerical results clearly indicate that the proposed nonsingular terminal sliding-mode feedback controller based on the principle of minimum sliding-mode error can compensate control errors accurately and quickly; therefore, it can reduce the effect of the uncertainties from the space indirectly.
A preliminary method to estimate impacts of inlet flow distortion on boundary layer ingesting propulsion system design point performance
Authors: Liu Chengyuan , Ihiabe Daniel , Laskaridis Panagiotis , Singh Riti
Published: August 2013

Boundary layer ingestion by fans in propulsion system improves the propulsive efficiency. However, inlet flow distortion will dramatically eliminate these benefits. This paper puts forward a method to deal with inlet flow distortions and examines their impacts on turbofan performance at engine design point. The method models both radial and circumferential distortion and their impacts separately. Firstly, a distorted fan map is calculated by parallel compressor method. Then, the new map is utilised to find the fan exit flow conditions by parallel stream method. Finally, we assume that all the flows mixed well before entering the nozzle without any pressure losses. At all examined fan pressure ratios, boundary layer ingesting improved fuel consumption. However, the benefits reduced by the new method are lower than previous predictions without considering intake distortion. If the fan pressure loss and efficiency drop due to inlet distortion are too high, boundary layer ingestion should not be used with a traditional fan design. Large boundary layer ingestion for future propulsion system should consider new fan blade design.
Assessing calibration of prognostic risk scores
Authors: Crowson Cynthia S , Atkinson Elizabeth J , Therneau Terry M
Published: August 2013

Current methods used to assess calibration are limited, particularly in the assessment of prognostic models. Methods for testing and visualizing calibration (e.g. the Hosmer–Lemeshow test and calibration slope) have been well thought out in the binary regression setting. However, extension of these methods to Cox models is less well known and could be improved. We describe a model-based framework for the assessment of calibration in the binary setting that provides natural extensions to the survival data setting. We show that Poisson regression models can be used to easily assess calibration in prognostic models. In addition, we show that a calibration test suggested for use in survival data has poor performance. Finally, we apply these methods to the problem of external validation of a risk score developed for the general population when assessed in a special patient population (i.e. patients with particular comorbidities, such as rheumatoid arthritis).
Modeling and inverse compensation for giant magnetostrictive transducer applied in smart material electrohydrostatic actuator
Authors: Li Yuesong , Zhu Yuchuan , Wu Hongtao , Tang Dunbing
Published: August 2013

Smart material electrohydrostatic actuator based on giant magnetostrictive transducer can meet the requirements of smaller vehicles like the unmanned combat air vehicle as well as in rotating environments like helicopter rotors. In order to analyze and improve the performance of smart material electrohydrostatic actuator, the dynamic hysteresis nonlinear model of giant magnetostrictive transducer is developed based on the relationship between complex permeability and magnetic energy power loss in giant magnetostrictive material, and the inverse model is also derived to design the inverse compensator for improving the linearity of giant magnetostrictive transducer. The experiments show that with the help of inverse compensator, phase lag between the input control signal and the output displacement of giant magnetostrictive transducer is decreased. In addition, the simulation results show that because of the effect of inverse compensator, the flow rate is increased and the growth rate increases with the increase of excitation frequency.
High antiferroelectric stability and large electric field–induced strain in MnO2-doped Pb0.97La0.02(Zr0.63Sn0.26Ti0.11)O3 ceramics
Authors: Zhang Qingfeng , Zhang Yangyang , Yang Tongqing , Yao Xi
Published: August 2013

Crystal structure and electrical properties of MnO2-doped Pb0.97La0.02(Zr0.63Sn0.26Ti0.11)O3 antiferroelectric ceramic were studied in detail in this article. X-ray diffraction analysis showed that all specimens took on single tetragonal antiferroelectric structure, and antiferroelectric phase stability enhanced with the increase of MnO2 addition, which was because that the substitution of Mn2+ or Mn3+ with large ion radius for B-site Ti4+ decreased the tolerance factor of the ceramic. In addition, it was observed that different from Mn doping reducing Tm of ferroelectric ceramics, Tm of antiferroelectric ceramics increased with the addition of MnO2, which is for the reason that MnO2 addition enlarged the zone of antiferroelectric phase. Furthermore, by increasing MnO2 content, the strain first increased and then decreased. Meanwhile, the value improved obviously as the measuring frequency decreased. The largest electric field–induced strain of 0.65% was obtained in the specimen with 0.2 mol% MnO2 doping at the frequency of 1 Hz, which lay a foundation for preparing actuator with high strain energy density.
Narrating Dementia
Authors: Rodriquez Jason
Published: August 2013

In this article, I examine how individuals diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease use illness narratives to construct community. The ability to narrate is a fundamental component of the self. Using 354 posts by 32 members of an Internet forum, I argue that people with Alzheimer’s, whose ability to narrate, and thus create a self, was compromised, nonetheless managed to tell stories of redemption out of which a salvaged self emerged. Narratives are essential for the construction of self, but as I show in this article, they are also essential for the construction of community. Forum members shared stories, gave advice, offered encouragement, and commiserated about their symptoms in ways that generated solidarity. Internet forums provide a venue for people with illnesses who are unable to leave the home to construct community.
Cultivating Self-Regulation for Students With Mild Disabilities
Authors: Regan Kelley S. , Martin Pamela J.
Published: August 2013

The WHAT’S UP? strategy is a type of interactive writing between a student with social, emotional, and/or behavioral challenges and an adult. The written exchange serves as a technique for involving a student in “talking” about what can be better and engaging the student in a problem-solving process. The strategy encompasses components of problem-solving strategy skills, the self-regulated strategy development model, and interactive writing. The authors describe the strategy and how the strategy can be employed in the classroom.
Measuring Deviant Sexual Interest in Adolescents Using the Emotional Stroop Task
Authors: Price Shelley A. , Beech Anthony R. , Mitchell Ian , Humphreys Glyn W.
Published: August 2013

Adolescent sexual abusers are a heterogeneous group of offenders that often receive generic assessment and treatment services that are modeled on research findings from adult sex offender samples. The emotional Stroop task has been used to measure deviant sexual interest in adult samples. The purpose of the present study was to test whether the emotional Stroop task could also be used to assess deviant sexual interest in adolescent samples. Three groups of adolescents (a) sexual abusers ( n = 24); (b) offending controls ( n = 21); and (c) nonoffending controls ( n = 21) completed two emotional Stroop tasks related to deviant sexual interest and tests of executive function. Adolescent sexual abusers were significantly slower to color-name some word stimuli than both adolescent offending controls and adolescent nonoffending controls. However, the task was unable to differentiate between the groups on most of the Stroop word categories. Very little research has been conducted with adolescent offender samples and the emotional Stroop task. Reaction time (RT) and Stroop bias outcome data for adolescent samples appear to be more unsystematic and weaker than has been observed in previous adult data. Based on potential difficulties with reading and development, the emotional Stroop task may not be a task suitable for measuring deviant sexual interest in adolescent samples.
Application of high pressure processing for shelf life extension of litchi fruits (Litchi chinensis cv. Bombai) during refrigerated storage
Authors: Kaushik Neelima , Kaur Barjinder P , Rao P Srinivasa
Published: August 2013

This study attempts to report the effect of high pressure processing (100, 200 and 300 MPa for 5, 10 and 15 min at 27 ± 2 ℃) on quality and shelf life extension of ‘Bombai’ variety peeled litchi fruits during refrigerated storage (5 ℃). High pressure processing significantly increased total colour difference, browning index, drip loss and total soluble solids, whereas pH decreased after processing. Also, ascorbic acid content significantly decreased after high pressure processing and retention of 83.5% was observed. Texture profile analysis showed that pressurization significantly affected firmness and increased cohesiveness, gumminess, springiness and chewiness of litchi fruits. Pressure-induced firming effect was observed at 100 and 200 MPa pressure. A maximum of 3.29, 3.24 and 3.77 log10 cycles reduction in aerobic mesophiles, yeast & mold and psychrotrophs count, respectively, was achieved after pressurization of 300 MPa for 10 and 15 min treatments. During storage, samples treated at 300 MPa for 10 and 15 min showed relatively minimal changes in physico-chemical attributes, textural parameters and maintained lower viable microbial counts. Treatments at 300 MPa for 10 min and 15 min were found to enhance the shelf life of litchi fruits up to 32 days as compared to 12 days of untreated during refrigerated storage (5 ℃).
Host range and in vitro lysis of Listeria monocytogenes seafood isolates by bacteriophages
Authors: Arachchi Geevika J Ganegama , Cruz Cristina D , Dias-Wanigasekera Beatrice M , McIntyre Lynn , Billington Craig , Hudson Andrew , Flint Steve H , Mutukumira Anthony N
Published: August 2013

Listeria-infecting bacteriophages (listeriaphages) can be used to control Listeria monocytogenes in the food industry. However, the sensitivity of many of seafood-borne Listeria strains to phages has not been reported. This research investigated the host ranges of three listeriaphages (FWLLm1, FWLLm3 and FWLLm5) by the formation of lytic zones and plaques on host lawns and in vitro lysis kinetics of listeriaphage FWLLm3. The study also predicted the phage titres required to lyse host cells. The host ranges of the phages were determined using 50 L. monocytogenes strains, of which 48 were isolated from the seafood industry and two from clinical cases. Of the 50 strains, 36 were tested at 25 and 30 ℃ and the remainder (14) at 15 and 25 ℃. Based on the formation of either discrete plaques or lytic zones (host kill zones), the host ranges of FWLLm1, FWLLm3 and FWLLm5 were about 87%, 81% and 87%, respectively, at 25 ℃. Six L. monocytogenes strains from the seafood environment were insensitive to all three phages, while the other seafood strains (42) were phage-sensitive. The adsorption rate constant ( k value) of listeriaphage FWLLm3 was between 1.2 × 10−9 and 1.6 × 10−9 ml/min across four host strains in tryptic soy broth at 25 ℃. The cultures (at 3–4 log colony-forming unit (CFU/ml) were completely lysed (<1 log CFU/ml) when cultures were infected with FWLLm3 at > 8.7 log phage-forming units (PFU/ml) for 30 min. Re-growth of phage-infected cultures was not detected after 24 h. The effective empirical phage titre was similar to the calculated titre using a kinetic model. Results indicate the potential use of the three phages for controlling L. monocytogenes strains in seafood processing environments.
Effect of processing by hydrostatic high pressure of two ready to heat vegetable meals and stability after refrigerated storage
Authors: Masegosa Rosa , Delgado-Adámez Jonathan , Contador Rebeca , Sánchez-Íñiguez Francisco , Ramírez Rosario
Published: August 2013

The effect of high pressure processing (HPP) (400 and 600 MPa for 1 and 5 min) and the stability during storage were studied in two ready to heat vegetable meals: meal A, mainly composed by pumpkin and broccoli, and meal B, mainly composed by eggplant, zucchini, chard and spinach. The treatment at 600 MPa/5 min was the most effective to reduce the initial microbial loads of the meals and maintained better the microbial safety during storage. HPP had no effect on the physico-chemical and sensory properties. HPP at 600 MPa increased the antioxidant activity of the meal A. In contrast HPP reduced the antioxidant activity of the meal B, although in general high levels of antioxidants were maintained after processing and during storage. In conclusion, treatments at 600 MPa for 5 min were the most suitable to increase the shelf-life of the meals without affecting their physico-chemical, antioxidant and sensory properties.
Preclinical Safety Assessment of a Recombinant Plague Vaccine (rF1V)
Authors: Price Jessica L. , Manetz T. Scott , Shearer Jeffry D. , House Robert V.
Published: August 2013

A recombinant vaccine (rF1V) is being developed to protect adults 18 to 55 years of age from fatal pneumonic plague caused by aerosolized Yersinia pestis. A comprehensive series of studies was conducted to evaluate the general toxicity and local reactogenicity of the rF1V vaccine prior to first use in humans. Toxicity was evaluated in CD-1 mice vaccinated with control material and three dosage concentrations of rF1V with or without Alhydrogel® by intramuscular (IM) injection on Study Days 1, 29, 57 and 71 in a volume of 0.1 mL. Total immunizing protein given in each dose was 0, 20 or 60 μg/animal. Local reactogenicity was evaluated in mice at the dosages given and in New Zealand white (NZW) rabbits using the same injection volume and formulations (40, 80, 160 and 320 μg/mL total antigen and 0.3% (w/v) Alhydrogel®) intended for human use (0.5 mL). The rF1V vaccine produced no apparent systemic toxicity and only transient edema and erythema at the injection site. Together these results indicated a favorable safety profile for rF1V and supported its use in a Phase 1 clinical trial.
Splendore-Hoeppli phenomenon in a cat with osteomyelitis caused by Streptococcus species
Authors: França Silvia de Araujo , Braga Juliana Fortes Vilarinho , Moreira Matheus Vilardo Loes , Silva Vitor Cesar Martins , Souza Erick Ferry , Pereira Luiz Carlos , Rezende Cleuza Maria de Faria , Ecco Roselene
Published: August 2013

A 9-month-old male neutered mixed-breed cat had a history of chronic lameness of the right hind limb, which was non-responsive to antibiotic treatment. Hematologic analysis revealed marked neutrophilia and mild monocytosis. Radiography revealed extensive loss of cortical bone, and replacement with irregular and disorganized bone. There was loss of the normal cortico-medullary distinction, and the medullary cavity had an irregular radiodensity suggestive of osteomyelitis. Surgical curettage and antibiotics did not improve the clinical condition, and amputation was performed. Grossly, the skin over the right tibia was ulcerated with a viscous and granular exudate. At histopathology, there was marked diffuse pyogranulomatous dermatitis, myositis, periostitis and osteomyelitis associated with Splendore-Hoeppli phenomenon. In addition, there was marrow osteoproliferation and multifocal cortical loss, reabsorption, fibroplasia and endosteal bone formation. Gram staining revealed myriad slightly elongated Gram-positive bacteria, arranged in pairs or single chains, confirmed by polymerase chain reaction as Streptococcus species.
Ultrasonographic evaluation of relative gastrointestinal layer thickness in cats without clinical evidence of gastrointestinal tract disease
Authors: Winter Matthew D , Londono Leonel , Berry Clifford R , Hernandez Jorge A
Published: August 2013

The objectives of this study were (1) to measure normal thickness values of the muscularis, submucosal, mucosal and serosal layers in each gastrointestinal (GI) segment (gastric fundus, body and pyloric antrum; duodenum; jejunum; ileum; colon), and (2) to calculate a ratio of muscularis and mucosal layer thickness to aortic diameter measured at the level of the celiac artery (Musc:Ao and Muc:Ao) in each GI segment in a sample of healthy cats. Ultrasonographic examination of the GI tract was performed, and measurements of the individual layers in each GI segment were obtained in 38 healthy cats without clinical evidence of disease. The muscularis layer was significantly thickest in the ileum, compared with other segments, and it was thicker than the submucosa in all segments except the colon. The mucosa was the thickest layer in all segments, and was thickest in the duodenum and ileum. Measurements of the submucosal and serosal layers were not significantly different between all segments. Musc:Ao and Muc:Ao in each segment were 0.12 and 0.25 (gastric fundus), 0.12 and 0.18 (gastric body), 0.11 and 0.16 (pyloric antrum), 0.08 and 0.27 (duodenum), 0.08 and 0.22 (jejunum), 0.14 and 0.25 (ileum), and 0.05 and 0.08 (colon), respectively. Musc:Ao and Muc:Ao are clinically relevant values that can be used to objectively identify thickening of the muscularis and mucosal layers in response to GI diseases.
Cystitis glandularis in a cat
Authors: Agut Amalia , Carrillo Juana D , Soler Marta , García Juan D , Belda Eliseo , Gómez Miguel A , Bernabe Antonio
Published: August 2013

An 8-year-old intact male Persian cat was presented for investigation of chronic haematuria. The cat had episodes of haematuria on several occasions that were non-responsive to antimicrobial therapy. Abdominal ultrasound examination revealed dilation of the renal pelvis and ureters of both kidneys. The urinary bladder wall was thickened, a mass of heterogeneous echogenicity filled the lumen of the bladder, and two parallel thin hyperechoic lines were identified within the lumen, which suggested a urethral catheter. Differential diagnoses for the urinary bladder mass included cystitis and neoplasia. The mass was surgically removed from the urinary bladder, and a urethral catheter was found embedded in the mass. Histopathological findings were consistent with cystitis glandularis of a typical type. Periodic bladder ultrasonographic studies were performed; at the time of writing, over 2 years later, recurrence had not been detected.
Management of children’s fever by parents and caregivers
Authors: Emmerton Lynne , Chaw Xin Yao , Kelly Fiona , Kairuz Therese , Marriott Jennifer , Wheeler Amanda , Moles Rebekah
Published: August 2013

Functional health literacy is founded on general and numerical literacy and practical skills and is required for the appropriate and effective management of health symptoms in children. This study aimed to assess the health literacy skills of parents and caregivers of preschool-aged children, using a progressive scenario describing a child with fever and presenting tasks relating to selection of a medicine and hypothetical dosing of their child. Participants ( n = 417) from 33 childcare- and health-related sites in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Auckland completed the study. Participants’ responses were largely appropriate regarding actions in response to worsening symptoms, selection of an appropriate product (from a limited range), whereby 84.5% of responses were for a single-ingredient paracetamol product and use of the package directions to state the frequency of dosing (93.1% of frequencies appropriate for paracetamol and 66.7% for ibuprofen). However, in only 50.8% of cases was an appropriate weight-based dose calculated, and doses were not measured to within 10% of the stated dose in 16.7% of cases. Future studies should focus on skill development via educational campaigns for parents and caregivers.
Construction of death in H1N1 news in The Times of India
Authors: Krishnatray Pradeep , Gadekar Rahul
Published: August 2013

Construction and meaning-making are central to the process of communication. Studying the way media frame a public health issue gives insight into how people are likely to perceive the information on that issue. Death is considered as the most significant contributory factor of fear in any public health crisis. In this article we analyze the H1N1 death coverage in The Times of India, the largest circulated English daily published from India. We describe and analyze the framing of H1N1 by reviewing 62 death-reporting news stories that appeared in the daily in 2009. Our analysis yielded four dominant frames: fear-panic, attribution of responsibility, action and human interest. We conclude that the newspaper framed H1N1 as a deadly disease and its coverage presented death in such a manner as to produce fear and panic.
From ‘natural selection’ to ‘survival of the fittest’: On the significance of Spencer’s refashioning of Darwin in the 1860s
Authors: Offer John
Published: August 2013

This article examines what Spencer meant by his expression ‘survival of the fittest’ and its status in the explanation of change. It shows how in his Principles of Biology the expression was introduced in connection with his discussion of Darwin’s mechanism of species change, ‘natural selection’, which he wished to incorporate into his all-embracing theory of evolution. The analysis demonstrates through textual examination that the relationship between the expressions ‘natural selection’ and ‘survival of the fittest’ was not, as is often assumed, one of equivalence, but that it embodied intellectually significant modifications of Darwin’s position not acknowledged within references, themselves accurate enough, to Spencer’s well-known preference for the inheritance of acquired characteristics over ‘chance variations’. The article then discusses how Spencer applied what he understood by ‘survival of the fittest’ to the explanation of social change, as presented in his foundational contribution to sociology, The Principles of Sociology.
Weber’s Daoism: A failure of orthodoxy
Authors: Barbalet Jack
Published: August 2013

The paper fills a gap in the discussion of The Religion of China by focusing on Weber’s treatment of Daoism. First, it presents an examination of Weber’s use of sources in his construction of Daoism and his location of mysticism and religion in the early Daoist text Daodejing. Second, his treatment of Daoism – and Confucianism – within the orthodox/heterodox framework is examined and shown to be a European projection inadequate for understanding Chinese state practices. Finally, it is shown that Weber’s approach prevents appreciation of the contribution of Daoist thought to a Chinese entrepreneurial spirit. By reformulating Weber’s argument concerning culture and economy, this important and neglected aspect of Daoism is highlighted.
Religion and cultural politics: Islam and Bourdieu
Authors: Robbins Derek M.
Published: August 2013

This text follows closely a paper given in May 2007 to the third seminar, held at University College London, of an ESRC seminar series co-organized by the author, Nirmal Puwar (Goldsmiths College, University of London) and Azzedine Haddour (University College London) entitled ‘Pierre Bourdieu in Algeria: Testimonies of Uprooting’. The paper offers a preliminary discussion of Bourdieu’s analysis of Islam in his first book, Sociologie de l’Algérie (1958). It suggests that, as a young philosopher aspiring to undertake social anthropological or sociological research, he sought to reconcile the legacies of Durkheim and Weber. The methodology and conceptual apparatus deployed in this early text did not enable Bourdieu to appreciate the function for social agents of their religious practices and affiliations in a way which might have been possible for him in his later, ‘post-structuralist’ phase. As a ‘Research Note’, the text is reproduced so as to encourage further detailed study of Bourdieu’s work within the Algerian context and to suggest lines of inquiry in relation to his early intellectual formation.