bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
O ludicamente sério e o seriamente lúdico de Georges Perec
Authors: Fux Jacques
Published: December 2013

Este artigo tem como objetivo apresentar algumas das contraintes utilizadas na obra de Georges Perec. Inicialmente essas restrições parecem apenas ingênuas e lúdicas. Porém, analisando detalhadamente seu contexto e sua estrutura, encontramos diversas e potenciais interpretações.
Anatole France no divã
Authors: France Anatole , Almeida Milane Suzano de
Published: December 2013

Sem resumo.
Brincar de escrever
Authors: Messias Carolina Augusto , Pino Claudia Amigo
Published: December 2013

sem resumo
Helberto Helder e a apropriação parcialíssima de Episódios / A Múmia de Fernando Pessoa
Authors: Picosque Tatiana Aparecida
Published: December 2013

Pretendemos analisar excertos da série de poemas intitulada Episódios/A Múmia do Cancioneiro, de Fernando Pessoa. Queremos compreender o motivo pelo qual esses poemas foram apropriados pelo livro de antologia Edoi Lelia Doura (1985), de Herberto Helder – por muitos, considerado o maior poeta português surgido após Fernando Pessoa. O que nos intriga é o fato de Fernando Pessoa e Herberto Helder possuírem poéticas tão dissonantes. Portanto, é necessário sondarmos o que torna esta série de poemas afim ao projeto poético herbertiano a ponto dele render-lhe uma espécie de pequena homenagem.
Narrativa ensaística rizomática: fios da memória do Frankenstein pós-moderno
Authors: Soerensen Claudiana
Published: December 2013

Sem resumo
Quem tem medo de lugar-comum?
Authors: Geske Samara Fernanda de Almeida Oliveira Lócio e Silva , Pino Claudia Amigo
Published: December 2013

Sem resumo
Figurações Celibatárias
Authors: Oliveira Rodrigo Santos de
Published: December 2013

Observa-se ao longo da historiografia literária brasileira, sobretudo em romances e em textos de autoria masculina, que personagens femininas celibatárias exercem papéis coadjuvantes, são dotadas de alguma patologia, ridicularizadas ou submetidas à interdição familiar de acordo com padrões sociais vigentes. Este trabalho tem por objetivo especular como a “solteirona” adquire voz e representação ao atuar como protagonista em narrativas curtas. Para essa leitura, são estudados os contos Miss Algrave, de Clarice Lispector, Sr. Diretor, de Lygia Fagundes Telles e o Príncipe sapo, de Caio Fernando Abreu, analisados sob a ótica de três planos temáticos: interdição, erotismo e solidão. Como elementos teóricos motivadores, serão consideradas as percepções de erotismo segundo Octavio Paz, o estudo historiográfico sobre a "solteirona", de Cláudia Maia e o conceito de "texto tagarelice", de Roland Barthes.
Gênero e tradução – Questões culturais sobre a transmissão de conhecimento
Authors: Pfau Monique
Published: December 2013

A interface entre os Estudos de Gênero e Estudos da Tradução aparece como um importante recorte a ser estudado, uma vez que a transmissão dos trabalhos intelectuais encontra-se em constantes discussões intermediadas através da tradução que se depara com questões culturais. Além disso, aparecem questões de relações de poder “centralizando” certos núcleos acadêmicos. Entretanto, isso já está muito visível entre diversas autoras que mostram a necessidade da visibilidade de países que muitas vezes apareceram como “periféricos” na área de produção de conhecimento nos Estudos de Gênero; elas também tratam da urgência da ampliação do diálogo de uma forma mais universal. A tradução cultural aparece como fator crucial para a disseminação desses diversos discursos.
Olhares da margem: estudos de gênero nas letras uspianas
Authors: Gomes Natalia de Oliveira Ribeiro C. , Pereira Viviane Araújo Alves da Costa
Published: December 2013

Sem resumo
Mutations épistemologiques et enseignement de la littérature: l’avènement du sujet lecteur
Authors: Rouxel Annie
Published: December 2013

La reconnaissance du sujet lecteur et de sa créativité dans l’élaboration du sens s’accompagne d’importantes avancées théoriques relatives à la connaissance des lecteurs réels. Désormais on s’intéresse la lecture subjective, à la manière dont les lecteurs s’investissent dans le texte lu et le reconfigurent pour en faire leur « texte de lecteur ». Identification, refictionnalisation du texte, interlecture, ces phénomènes interviennent dans le rapport au texte qui s’instaure au cœur de la lecture et ils sont appréciés comme autant de formes d’implication. L’enseignement de la littérature tire parti de ces savoirs en accueillant les lectures singulières, points de départ des interprétations, et en donnant place à l’intersubjectivité au sein de la classe conçue comme communauté interprétative.
Baudelaire e a linguagem das correspondências
Authors: Gomes Álvaro Cardoso
Published: December 2013

Tendo como núcleo a análise de “Correspondances”, de Baudelaire, este ensaio procura rastrear as origens das principais imagens místico-estéticas do poema. Numa segunda instância, procura determinar como as tendências místicas adquirem um viés estético no soneto, fazendo com que o poema se constitua numa espécie de profissão de fé do Simbolismo.
A tradução ética em “A prova do estrangeiro”
Authors: Chanut Maria Emília Pereira
Published: December 2013

O presente trabalho propõe uma reflexão que é uma tentativa de resgatar a matriz temática do estrangeiro como questão relacionada com a própria estrutura do texto literário. Essa relação parte essencialmente da noção de alteridade, ou seja, da relação com o outro – o estranho-estrangeiro da obra no original – e que está presente desde o momento de sua gênese. Um exemplo concreto do desafio que se apresenta ao tradutor será analisado a partir do próprio título da obra em questão: L’épreuve de l’étranger nos coloca num impasse – é a experiência, ou a prova? Do estrangeiro ou do estranho?
Por uma biagraphia: notas sobre o registro da violência
Authors: Nuesch Enrique V.
Published: December 2013

Este ensaio trata de levantar questões teóricas acerca da possibilidade de se registrar discursivamente a experiência da violência no campo das ciências humanas. Para isso, analisaremos certas posições de Bourdieu sobre a relação entre a experiência e a linguagem e as confrontaremos com alguns pontos de vista de Jacques Derrida no que se refere à sua leitura da linguística de Saussure. Proporemos, assim, que esse registro discursivo da violência dever-se-ia pôr sob a rubrica de uma bia-graphia (“escrita da violência”), que se inscreve, ainda que de forma elusiva, em toda e qualquer biografia (“escrita da vida”).
Estudo sobre o romance - Guy de Maupassant
Authors: Maupassant Guy de , Amabile Luis Roberto
Published: December 2013

Sem resumo
Sobre algumas genealogias e formas do hibridismo nas literaturas do século XX - Vladimir Krysinski
Authors: Krysinski Vladimir , Faria Zênia de
Published: December 2013

Sem resumo
Erythrocyte-Derived Microvesicles Amplify Systemic Inflammation by Thrombin-Dependent Activation of Complement
Authors: Zecher Daniel , Cumpelik Arun , Schifferli Jürg A.
Published: December 2013

Objective—

Transfusion of aged blood has been associated with increased morbidity and mortality in critically ill patients. During storage, erythrocytes release increasing numbers of microvesicles (red blood cell–derived microvesicles [RBC-MV]). We hypothesized that RBC-MV mediate some of the deleterious effects of aged blood transfusions.

Approach and Results—

We established a murine transfusion model using RBC-MV purified from aged mouse erythrocytes. Injection of RBC-MV into healthy mice had no effect. However, they aggravated pulmonary leukocyte sequestration and peripheral blood leukopenia induced by lipopolysaccharides. Lipopolysaccharide-induced proinflammatory cytokines were significantly increased in plasma after RBC-MV injection. These effects were not seen in C5aR-deficient mice. In vitro, RBC-MV bound C3 fragments after incubation with plasma but failed to bind immunoglobulins, C1q, or mannose-binding lectin. Preventing thrombin generation inhibited complement activation in vitro and in vivo and reversed the proinflammatory effects of RBC-MV in lipopolysaccharide-primed mice. Finally, the RBC-MV–induced phenotype was recapitulated using phosphatidylserine-expressing liposomes, suggesting that surface expression of phosphatidylserine by RBC-MV was mechanistically involved.

Conclusions—

These results point toward a thrombin-dependent mechanism of complement activation by RBC-MV independent of the classical, lectin, or alternative pathway. Besides identifying RBC-MV as potential mediators of transfusion-related morbidity, our findings may be relevant for other inflammatory disorders involving intravascular microvesicle release, for example, sickle cell disease or thrombotic microangiopathy.
Genetic Reduction of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor 2 Rescues Aberrant Angiogenesis Caused by Epsin Deficiency
Authors: Tessneer Kandice L. , Pasula Satish , Cai Xiaofeng , Dong Yunzhou , McManus John , Liu Xiaolei , Yu Lili , Hahn Scott , Chang Baojun , Chen Yiyuan , Griffin Courtney , Xia Lijun , Adams Ralf H. , Chen Hong
Published: December 2013

Objective—

We previously showed that endothelial epsin deficiency caused elevated vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) and enhanced VEGF signaling, resulting in aberrant tumor angiogenesis and reduced tumor growth in adult mice. However, direct evidence demonstrating that endothelial epsins regulate angiogenesis specifically through VEGFR2 downregulation is still lacking. In addition, whether the lack of epsins causes abnormal angiogenesis during embryonic development remains unclear.

Approach and Results—

A novel strain of endothelial epsin-deleted mice that are heterozygous for VEGFR2 (Epn1
fl/fl
; Epn2
−/−
; Flk
fl/+
; iCDH5 Cre mice) was created. Analysis of embryos at different developmental stages showed that deletion of epsins caused defective embryonic angiogenesis and retarded embryo development. In vitro angiogenesis assays using isolated primary endothelial cells (ECs) from Epn1
fl/fl
; Epn2
−/−
; iCDH5 Cre (EC-iDKO) and Epn1
fl/fl
; Epn2
−/−
; Flk
fl/+
; iCDH5 Cre (EC-iDKO-Flk
fl/+
) mice demonstrated that VEGFR2 reduction in epsin-depleted cells was sufficient to restore normal VEGF signaling, EC proliferation, EC migration, and EC network formation. These findings were complemented by in vivo wound healing, inflammatory angiogenesis, and tumor angiogenesis assays in which reduction of VEGFR2 was sufficient to rescue abnormal angiogenesis in endothelial epsin-deleted mice.

Conclusions—

Our results provide the first genetic demonstration that epsins function specifically to downregulate VEGFR2 by mediating activated VEGFR2 internalization and degradation and that genetic reduction of VEGFR2 level protects against excessive angiogenesis caused by epsin loss. Our findings indicate that epsins may be a potential therapeutic target in conditions in which tightly regulated angiogenesis is crucial, such as in diabetic wound healing and tumors.
Essential Role of Apelin Signaling During Lymphatic Development in Zebrafish
Authors: Kim Jun-Dae , Kang Yujung , Kim Jongmin , Papangeli Irinna , Kang Hyeseon , Wu Jingxia , Park Hyekyung , Nadelmann Emily , Rockson Stanley G. , Chun Hyung J. , Jin Suk-Won
Published: December 2013

Objective—

Apelin and its cognate receptor Aplnr/Apj are essential for diverse biological processes. However, the function of Apelin signaling in lymphatic development remains to be identified, despite the preferential expression of Apelin and Aplnr within developing blood and lymphatic endothelial cells in vertebrates. In this report, we aim to delineate the functions of Apelin signaling during lymphatic development.

Approach and Results—

We investigated the functions of Apelin signaling during lymphatic development using zebrafish embryos and found that attenuation of Apelin signaling substantially decreased the formation of the parachordal vessel and the number of lymphatic endothelial cells within the developing thoracic duct, indicating an essential role of Apelin signaling during the early phase of lymphatic development. Mechanistically, we found that abrogation of Apelin signaling selectively attenuates lymphatic endothelial serine–threonine kinase Akt 1/2 phosphorylation without affecting the phosphorylation status of extracellular signal–regulated kinase 1/2. Moreover, lymphatic abnormalities caused by the reduction of Apelin signaling were significantly exacerbated by the concomitant partial inhibition of serine–threonine kinase Akt/protein kinase B signaling. Apelin and vascular endothelial growth factor-C (VEGF-C) signaling provide a nonredundant activation of serine–threonine kinase Akt/protein kinase B during lymphatic development because overexpression of VEGF-C or apelin was unable to rescue the lymphatic defects caused by the lack of Apelin or VEGF-C, respectively.

Conclusions—

Taken together, our data present compelling evidence suggesting that Apelin signaling regulates lymphatic development by promoting serine–threonine kinase Akt/protein kinase B activity in a VEGF-C/VEGF receptor 3–independent manner during zebrafish embryogenesis.
Transient Global Amnesia and the Risk of Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Mangla Atul , Navi Babak B. , Layton Kelly , Kamel Hooman
Published: December 2013

Background and Purpose—

Whether transient global amnesia (TGA) represents an arterial insult that heralds ischemic stroke remains unclear. Therefore, we examined stroke risk after TGA in a population-based cohort.

Methods—

After performing chart review at our institution to validate the International Classification of Diseases, 9th Edition, Clinical Modification diagnosis code for TGA, we used administrative claims data to identify all patients discharged from nonfederal California emergency departments or acute care hospitals between 2005 and 2010 with a primary discharge diagnosis of TGA. Patients with a primary discharge diagnosis of migraine, seizure, or transient ischemic attack were included as controls. Kaplan–Meier statistics were used to calculate rates of ischemic stroke, and Cox proportional hazards analyses were used to compare stroke risk among the 4 exposure groups while controlling for traditional stroke risk factors.

Results—

International Classification of Diseases, 9th Edition, Clinical Modification code 437.7 had a sensitivity of 86% and a specificity of 95% for TGA. The cumulative 1-year rate of stroke was 0.54% (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.36–0.81) after TGA, 0.22% (95% CI, 0.20–0.25) after migraine, 0.90% (95% CI, 0.83–0.97) after seizure, and 4.72% (95% CI, 4.60–4.85) after transient ischemic attack. After adjustment for demographic characteristics and stroke risk factors, TGA was not associated with stroke risk when compared with migraine (hazard ratio, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.61–1.10). The likelihood of stroke after TGA was lower than after seizure (hazard ratio, 0.57; 95% CI, 0.44–0.76) or transient ischemic attack (hazard ratio, 0.27; 95% CI, 0.20–0.35).

Conclusions—

Compared with patients diagnosed with migraine or seizure, patients diagnosed with TGA do not seem to face a heightened risk of stroke.
Predictability and Genesis of Hurricane Karl (2010) Examined through the EnKF Assimilation of Field Observations Collected during PREDICT
Authors: Poterjoy Jonathan , Zhang Fuqing
Published: December 2013

The genesis of Hurricane Karl (2010) is explored using analyses and forecasts from a cycling ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF) that assimilates routinely collected observations as well as dropsonde measurements that were taken during the Pre-Depression Investigation of Cloud Systems in the Tropics (PREDICT) field campaign. A total of 127 dropsonde observations were collected from six PREDICT flight missions over a 5-day period before and during Karl’s genesis. EnKF analyses that take into account the PREDICT dropsondes provide a detailed four-dimensional overview of the evolving kinematic and thermodynamic structure within the pregenesis disturbance. In particular, the additional field observations are found to increase the low- and midlevel circulation and column moisture in the EnKF analyses and reduce the position error of the low-level vortex. Deterministic forecasts from these analyses show a 24-h improvement in predicting genesis over a control experiment that omits the dropsonde observations. In ensemble forecasts for this event, the more accurate analyses translate into a higher confidence in predicting the intensification of Karl; that is, data assimilation experiments also suggest that initial condition errors at the mesoscale pose large challenges for predicting genesis, thus highlighting the need for improved observation networks and more advanced data assimilation methods.
Dynamics of an Equatorial River Plume: Theory and Numerical Experiments Applied to the Congo Plume Case
Authors: Vic Clément , Berger Henrick , Tréguier Anne-Marie , Couvelard Xavier
Published: December 2013

The Congo River has the second largest rate of flow in the world and is mainly responsible for the broad tongue of low-salinity water that is observed in the Gulf of Guinea. Despite their importance, near-equatorial river plumes have not been studied as thoroughly as midlatitude plumes and their dynamics remain unclear. Using both theory and idealized numerical experiments that reproduce the major characteristics of the region, the authors have investigated the dynamics of the Congo River plume and examine its sensitivity to different forcing mechanisms. It is found that near-equatorial plumes are more likely to be surface trapped than midlatitude plumes, and the importance of the β effect in describing the strong offshore extent of the low-salinity tongue during most of the year is demonstrated. It is shown that the buoyant plume constrained by the geomorphology is subject to the β pulling of nonlinear structures and wavelike equatorial dynamics. The wind is found to strengthen the intrinsic buoyancy-driven dynamics and impede the development of the coastal southward current, in coherence with observations.
Randomness, Symmetry, and Scaling of Mesoscale Eddy Life Cycles
Authors: Samelson R. M. , Schlax M. G. , Chelton D. B.
Published: December 2013

It is shown that the life cycles of nonlinear mesoscale eddies, a major component of low-frequency ocean physical variability, have a characteristic structure that differs fundamentally from that which would be expected on the basis of classical interpretations of ocean eddy evolution in terms of mean flow instability and equilibration followed by frictional, radiative, or barotropic decay, or of vortex merger dynamics in quasigeostrophic turbulent cascades. Further, it is found that these life cycles can be accurately modeled in terms of the large-amplitude excursions of a stochastic process. These conclusions, which apply in the corresponding global-mean context, follow from the examination of ensemble-mean and standard deviation time series of normalized eddy amplitude from an automated eddy identification and tracking analysis of a nearly two decade–merged satellite altimeter record of global sea surface height (SSH). The resulting series are found to have several striking and unexpected characteristics, including time-reversal symmetry and approximate self-similarity. Consistent results are obtained from a similar analysis of a 7-yr record of global SSH from a numerical ocean circulation model. The basic qualitative and quantitative statistical properties of these series can be remarkably well reproduced with an extremely simple stochastic model, in which the SSH increments between successive time points are random numbers, and the eddy life cycles are represented by excursions exceeding a given threshold. The stochastic model is found also to predict accurately the empirical autocorrelation structure of the underlying observed SSH field itself, when the autocorrelations are computed along long planetary (Rossby) wave characteristics.
The Analysis of Self-Presentation of Fortune 500 Corporations in Corporate Web Sites
Authors: Park Jongmin , Lee Hyunmin , Hong Hyehyun
Published: December 2013

In the digital age, many corporations communicate with their publics via online channels. Among many channels, a corporation’s official Web site is often used for informing publics of its performance and other corporate-related information and for shaping a positive corporate image. This study quantitatively analyzed corporate Web sites, particularly the “About us” Web pages of Fortune 500 corporations based on symbolic convergence theory (SCT), which describes the formation of symbolic reality and the shared meaning of that symbolic reality among the public. A content analysis revealed that economic corporate management was the dominant rhetorical vision, and the fantasy, in the context of SCT, of being a superior company was emphasized by the 500 examined corporations. Such symbolic reality was constructed using corresponding structural tools of Web content, such as dramatis personae, plot line, and scene. In addition, the rhetorical vision and fantasy themes created by the Web sites turned out to be contingent on business classifications (retailer/distributor, manufacturers, and financial/informational/recreational services). Companies that pursued other types of fantasy themes (such as admirable, futuristic, and competent/stable) and rhetorical visions (such as socially responsible corporate management) were also identified. Some suggestions for corporate communicators are provided based on the results of this analysis.
Experimental study on the mechanical behavior of carbon/epoxy composites with a carbon nanofiber-modified matrix
Authors: Zhou Yuanxin , Jeelani Shaik , Lacy Thomas
Published: December 2013

Material property characterization tests were performed on satin weave carbon/epoxy composites, where the epoxy resin was modified with 2 wt% carbon nanofibers prior to infusion into a continuous carbon fiber preform. Uniaxial tension tests, tension-tension fatigue tests, and fracture tests were initially performed on 0–3 wt% carbon nanofibers-reinforced epoxy specimens in order to determine the carbon nanofiber weight fraction leading to the optimal mechanical properties of the modified epoxy matrix. In general, the elastic modulus of the modified epoxy increased with increasing carbon nanofibers weight fraction. The ultimate tensile strength, fatigue life, and fracture toughness also increased significantly with increasing amounts of carbon nanofibers and reached maximal values at a carbon nanofiber weight fraction of 2 wt%. The improvement in tensile properties of carbon nanofiber–modified epoxy became more pronounced for specimens loaded at higher strain rates. Further increases in nanofiber content, however, resulted in a relative decrease in nanocomposite strength and fatigue life; this is likely due to local stress concentrations associated with poorly dispersed carbon nanofibers. Vacuum-assisted resin infusion molding was used to fabricate hybrid composite panels consisting of woven carbon fabric and epoxy resin modified with 2 wt% carbon nanofibers. Uniaxial compression, open-hole compression, and short beam shear tests were performed to assess the effect of carbon nanofibers on matrix-dominated composite properties. Hybrid composites containing 2 wt% of carbon nanofibers in the epoxy matrix resulted in compressive strength, open-hole compressive strength, and interlaminar shear strength values that were 19.8%, 27.8%, and 15.8% greater, respectively, than those for woven fabric composites prepared with neat epoxy. Quasi-static uniaxial tension tests and tension-tension fatigue tests of hybrid composite specimens also led to similar enhancements in the composite ultimate strength and fatigue life relative to composites specimens infused with neat epoxy. Scanning electron microscopy images of composite micro-fracture surfaces indicated that randomly distributed carbon nanofibers provide some crack bridging, reduce crack opening, and lead to crack turning for small cracks. Such mechanisms are likely responsible for the improvement in mechanical properties.
Microstructure, physical properties and hardness of alumina short fibres/nickel matrix composites fabricated by powder technology
Authors: Daoush Walid M , Elkady Omayma A
Published: December 2013

Nickel matrix composites reinforced with different weight percent of alumina short fibres have been fabricated by powder technology route. The alumina short fibres were encapsulated by nickel layers using the electroless deposition technique. The produced alumina/nickel composite powders underwent cold compaction and sintering at 850℃. The alumina/nickel powders as well as the consolidated composites were investigated by optical microscope, scanning electron microscope, XRD and VSM. It was observed that the surface of the alumina short fibres was completely coated with nickel layer and the microstructures of the consolidated compacts show homogeneous distribution of the alumina short fibres in the nickel matrix. The density, electrical conductivity, coercivity, retentivity, saturation magnetization and hardness of the produced alumina short fibres/nickel composites were measured. The relative sintered density and the saturation magnetization were decreased, but the retentivity, the coercivity and the hardness were increased by increasing the alumina short fibres weight percent in the nickel matrix.
Overexpressed TGF-β in Subchondral Bone Leads to Mandibular Condyle Degradation
Authors: Jiao K. , Zhang M. , Niu L. , Yu S. , Zhen G. , Xian L. , Yu B. , Yang K. , Liu P. , Cao X. , Wang M.
Published: December 2013

Emerging evidence has implied that subchondral bone plays an important role during osteoarthritis (OA) pathology. This study was undertaken to investigate whether abnormalities of the condylar subchondral bone lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) OA. We used an osteoblast-specific mutant TGF-β1 transgenic mouse, the CED mouse, in which high levels of active TGF-β1 occur in bone marrow, leading to abnormal bone remodeling. Subchondral bone changes in the mandibular condyles were investigated by micro-CT, and alterations in TMJ condyles were confirmed by histopathological and immunohistochemical analysis. Abnormalities in the condylar subchondral bone, characterized as fluctuant bone mineral density and microstructure and increased but uncoupled activity of osteoclasts and osteoblasts, were apparent in the 1- and 4-month CED mouse groups, while obvious cartilage degradation, in the form of cell-free regions and proteoglycan loss, was observed in the 4-month CED group. In addition, increased numbers of apoptotic chondrocytes and MMP9- and VEGF-positive chondrocytes were observed in the condylar cartilage in the 4-month CED group, but not in the 1-month CED group, compared with their respective age-matched controls. This study demonstrated that progressive degradation of mandibular condylar cartilage could be induced by the abnormal remodeling of the underlying subchondral bone during TMJOA progression.
Influence of fibers on the dust dislodgement efficiency of bag filters
Authors: Bao L , Musadiq M , Kijima T , Kenmochi K
Published: December 2013

In recent years non-woven bag filters have been used in waste incinerators for the efficient collection of dust and removal of detrimental gas. However, dust collection efficiency decreases with time until the bag filters are no longer effective. Dust adhering to the fabric is a major determinant of bag filter life. In the present study a flat filter was used to study the relationship between various parameters of a bag filter structure and its dust dislodgement efficiency. The results confirm that fiber linear density, modulus of elasticity, and the form of the fiber cross-section of the felt can each affect the dust collection efficiency of a bag filter. Higher fiber linear density in a bag filter prevents dust from penetrating the filter, and this allows the dust to be more easily dislodged from the filter. Examination of various forms of fiber cross-section indicates that for the same fiber linear density the triangular form is better than the circular form. A lower Young's modulus allows the fiber to bend more easily and prevents the dust from penetrating the filter. Fiber linear density, fiber modulus of elasticity and form of the fiber cross-section are the variables affecting bag filter efficiency.
The optimum coating condition by response surface methodology for maximizing vapor-permeable water resistance and minimizing frictional sound of combat uniform fabric
Authors: Lee Kyulin , Cho Gilsoo
Published: December 2013

The objectives of this study are to investigate how the variables of the water-repellent coating condition, concentration of polyurethane (PU) and curing temperature, set up by response surface methodology, affect vapor-permeable water resistance and fabric frictional sound. Also it aims to analyze the relationship between tensile properties and the sound pressure level (SPL) of the fabric and, finally, to suggest the optimum coating condition for minimizing the fabric frictional sound and maximizing the vapor-permeable water resistance. It was observed that the higher PU concentration increased the water resistance and SPL, but decreased WVT (water vapor transmission). It was shown that higher curing temperature, the other variable of the coating condition, increased the water resistance and SPL but decreased WVT. The relationship between tensile properties and SPL was analyzed and it was found that tensile stress at break ( R2 = .716) and toughness ( R2 = .717) were highly related to SPL; however, tensile strain at break ( R2 = .508) was not. Finally, the optimum coating condition for minimizing fabric frictional sound and maximizing vapor-permeable water resistance was obtained at the PU concentration of 60% and the curing temperature of 149.7℃, and the predicted SPL and WVT were 72.27 dB and 8478.85 g/m2 24 h, respectively. The coefficients of determination ( R2) were 0.82 and 0.85, respectively, which indicate that the model fit was highly significant ( p < 0.05).
A novel antimicrobial photosensitizer: hydroxyethyl Michler’s ketone
Authors: Oh Kyung Wha , Choi Hyung-Min , Kim Jong Man , Park Ji Hwan , Park In Sung
Published: December 2013

A new photoactive antimicrobial agent was synthesized by introducing a reactive functional group (–CH2CH2OH) to 4,4′-bis(dimethylamino)benzophenone (Michler’s ketone) that could enhance the fixation of benzophenone derivatives to cotton fabric. Cotton fabrics containing organic photosensitizers were investigated to demonstrate antimicrobial properties in the application to protective and germ-free clothing. Photosensitizers such as benzophenone, Michler’s ketone and synthesized (4-(dimethylamino)phenyl)(4-((2-hydroxyethyl)(methyl)amino)phenyl)methanone (MK-EtOH) were applied on cotton fabrics through a pad–dry–cure method. The introduction of the reactive functional groups (–CH2CH2OH) enhanced the fixation of benzophenone derivatives to cotton fabrics as confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis and methylene blue staining method. No significant reductions of tensile strength and thermal degradation were observed with cotton fabrics treated with MK-EtOH. The scanning electron microscope morphology of the treated cotton showed that organic photosensitizers were evenly distributed and diffused to cotton fibers. After ultraviolet irradiation (365 nm), the cotton fabrics treated with synthesized MK-EtOH photosensitizer provided more effective and durable antimicrobial properties than Michler’s ketone and benzophenone, even after multiple washing.
Improved thermal performance of face mask using phase change material
Authors: Habchi Carine , Ghali Kamel , Ghaddar Nesreen
Published: December 2013

The purpose of this work is to develop a mathematical model to study the thermal performance of a cloth face mask in which phase change material (PCM) is encapsulated as compared to a cloth mask alone. The thermal performance is assessed by the ability to reduce heat loss and water vapor transfer from the exhaled air to inhaled air as well as to reduce the potential for condensation in the mask fabric layers. The mathematical model incorporated all the complex transport mechanisms of heat and moisture, including the realistic breathing pattern for the air passing through the fabric. The core assumption of the model of non-local-thermo-equilibrium was validated by performing experiments on a common cotton cloth mask. The model predicted well the experimentally measured air temperature through a cotton cloth mask during sudden changes in thermal inflow conditions. The validated model was used to perform a parametric study to determine environmental conditions and PCM material characteristics for the enhanced performance of the cloth mask. It was found that a considerable increase in the reclaiming of sensible and latent energy was reached for the same ambient conditions by the introduction of PCM with melting temperature of 22℃ and PCM mass fraction of 20%. Furthermore, the incorporation of PCM allows inhalation of colder outdoor conditions with a high range of relative humidity without condensation at ambient temperatures lower than 12℃, which is not possible without PCM. For higher temperatures than 12℃, the introduction of PCM enlarged the possible range of relative humidity reached without condensation.
Antimicrobial and antioxidant functionalization of viscose fabric using chitosan–curcumin formulations
Authors: Zemljič Lidija Fras , Volmajer Julija , Ristić Tijana , Bracic Matej , Sauperl Olivera , Kreže Tatjana
Published: December 2013

The purpose of this work was to develop new additive combinations between chitosan and curcumin in solutions as a fiber-coating. Diverse additive combinations between chitosan and curcumin in solutions were adsorbed onto viscose fabrics in order to reach the essential antimicrobial and antioxidant functionalization for medical textiles. The goal of this paper was to examine the adsorption of these two compounds as an additive formulation on viscose textile material as well as to analyze the desorptions of both substances from the fabric surface. Finally, the antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of viscose fabrics functionalized by chitosan–curcumin formulations were respectively examined. Curcumin as an adsorbate for textiles in combination with chitosan represents an added-value because of its anti-oxidative properties, and showing the potential to enhance existing antimicrobial performance of chitosan when applied using the preferred procedure.
Adolescent Mental Health
Authors: Snedker Karen A. , Herting Jerald R.
Published: December 2013

The purpose of this article is to explore the role of neighborhood characteristics, specifically economic disadvantage/advantage, residential instability, and racial/ethnic heterogeneity on emotional distress (depressed affect, anxiety, hopelessness) among youth. Using a regional sample of adolescents and matching their data to census tracts, we use hierarchical linear modeling to examine the relationship of neighborhood spatial factors on distress while controlling for individual, family, peer, and school factors. Results show neighborhood effects for adolescent distress are consistent with a stress process model where economic disadvantage and residential instability are positively associated with emotional distress, and indicators of economic advantage are negatively related. Specifically, we find neighborhood unemployment and housing vacancy rates are associated with increased distress, while the percentage of college graduates and foreign-born residents in the neighborhood is associated with reduced distress. We discuss the implications of our findings for ongoing research on neighborhood contextual effects and adolescent health.
Leptospirosis and dengue fever: a predictive model for early differentiation based on clinical and biochemical parameters
Authors: Varma Muralidhar D , Vengalil Seena , Vallabhajosyula Saraschandra , Krishnakumar Prashant C , Vidyasagar Sudha
Published: December 2013

Leptospirosis and dengue fever are increasingly seen as causes of tropical febrile illness and often are clinically indistinguishable. This two-year prospective study from a tertiary care centre comprised 200 patients including 68 men (mean 34.8 years) with dengue and 73 (mean 46.19 years) with leptospirosis. Oliguria, icterus, muscle tenderness, anaemia, leukocytopenia, thrombocytopenia, elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), acute renal failure (ARF) and hypoalbuminaemia appeared more commonly in leptospirosis in comparison to dengue. Eighteen per cent mortality was observed in leptospirosis compared to one per cent in dengue. ARF, hyperbilirubinaemia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), creatine kinase (CK) elevation and thrombocytopenia were predictors of death in leptospirosis and thrombocytopenia, ARDS and ARF predictors of death in dengue. On receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis, leucocytosis >11000/mm3, ESR >40 mm, serum creatinine >2 mg/dL, total serum bilirubin >2 mg/dL, CK >500 U/L and serum albumin <3 mg/dL were more likely to be an indication of leptospirosis at presentation compared to dengue.
Improving paediatric tuberculosis and HIV clinical record keeping: the use of audit and a structured pro forma in a South African regional level hospital
Authors: Goenka Anu , Annamalai Medeshni , Dhada Barnesh , Stephen Cindy R , McKerrow Neil H , Patrick Mark E
Published: December 2013

We report on the impact of revisions made to an existing pro forma facilitating routine assessment and the management of paediatric HIV and tuberculosis (TB) in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. An initial documentation audit in 2010 assessed 25 sets of case notes for the documentation of 16 select indicators based on national HIV and TB guidelines. Using the findings of this initial audit, the existing case note pro forma was revised. The introduction of the revised pro forma was accompanied by training and a similar repeat audit was undertaken in 2012. This demonstrated an overall improvement in documentation. The three indicators that improved most were documentation of maternal HIV status, child’s HIV status and child’s TB risk assessment (all P < 0.001). This study suggests that tailor-made documentation pro formas may have an important role to play in improving record keeping in low-resource settings.
Cultural Prototypes and Dimensions of Honor
Authors: Cross Susan E. , Uskul Ayse K. , Gerçek-Swing Berna , Sunbay Zeynep , Alözkan Cansu , Günsoy Ceren , Ataca Bilge , Karakitapoğlu-Aygün Zahide
Published: December 2013

Research evidence and theoretical accounts of honor point to differing definitions of the construct in differing cultural contexts. The current studies address the question “What is honor?” using a prototype approach in Turkey and the Northern United States. Studies 1a/1b revealed substantial differences in the specific features generated by members of the two groups, but Studies 2 and 3 revealed cultural similarities in the underlying dimensions of self-respect, moral behavior, and social status/respect. Ratings of the centrality and personal importance of these factors were similar across the two groups, but their association with other relevant constructs differed. The tripartite nature of honor uncovered in these studies helps observers and researchers alike understand how diverse responses to situations can be attributed to honor. Inclusion of a prototype analysis into the literature on honor cultures can provide enhanced coverage of the concept that may lead to testable hypotheses and new theoretical developments.
When Will Collective Action Be Effective? Violent and Non-Violent Protests Differentially Influence Perceptions of Legitimacy and Efficacy Among Sympathizers
Authors: Thomas Emma F. , Louis Winnifred R.
Published: December 2013

Collective action will be effective in achieving broader social change goals to the extent that it influences public opinion yet the degree to which collective action “works” in changing opinion is rarely studied. Experiment 1 ( n = 158) showed that, consistent with a logic of strategic non-violence, non-violent collective action more effectively conveys a sense of the illegitimacy of the issue and the efficacy of the group, thereby promoting support for future non-violent actions. Experiment 2 ( n = 139) explored the moderating role of allegations of corruption. A social context of corruption effectively undermined the efficacy and legitimacy of non-violent collective action, relative to support for violence, thereby promoting (indirectly) support for future extreme action. The implications of this research, for the logic of strategic non-violence and mobilizing supportive public opinion, are discussed.
An Intervention to Decrease Stigma in Young Adults With Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Jenerette Coretta M. , Brewer Cheryl A. , Edwards Lloyd J. , Mishel Merle H. , Gil Karen M.
Published: December 2013

Young adults with sickle cell disease (SCD) are often stigmatized when they seek care for pain. The purpose of this pilot study was to test an intervention to decrease health-related stigma during care-seeking. Young adults with SCD ages 18 to 35 years ( n = 90) were randomized to either the care-seeking intervention (CSI) or an attention control group that participated in life review interviews. The two groups were compared by t tests and longitudinal data analyses on the change from baseline to the last time point in total health-related stigma and health-related stigma by doctors. Findings suggest that the CSI was associated with significant increased awareness of perceived total stigma and stigma by doctors compared with the attention control group. These findings are promising in terms of lessons learned from a pilot intervention that focused on the role communication skills play in decreasing health-related stigma in young adults with SCD.
A reflective interview with Marcia Gentry and Scott Peters
Authors: Greathouse Dan , Shaughnessy Michael F , Gentry Marcia , Peters Scott
Published: December 2013

The Hope Scale is an 11-item teacher-rating instrument designed to help identify academic and social components of giftedness. It provides insights from teachers who work with students on a daily basis, which may differ from the type of information yielded through achievement and ability tests. The Hope Scale development was made possible by the generous support of the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation, and it is available as a free download from the GERI website (www.purdue.edu/geri).
Effects of Verbal Aggression and Party Identification Bias on Perceptions of Political Speakers
Authors: Nau Charlotte , Stewart Craig O.
Published: December 2013

Two experiments investigated the effects of verbal aggression, specifically character and competence attacks, on perceptions of political speakers. Verbally aggressive political speakers were perceived as less communicatively appropriate and credible than nonaggressive speakers, and were less likely to win agreement with their messages. Some evidence was found that perceptions were biased in favor of those who share a political party identification with the message recipient, and that more strongly Republican Party–identified participants perceived more verbal aggression in messages with no character and competence attacks and considered verbally aggressive Republicans more tactful.
A prospective evaluation of Dignity Therapy in advanced cancer patients admitted to palliative care
Authors: Houmann Lise J , Chochinov Harvey M , Kristjanson Linda J , Petersen Morten Aa , Groenvold Mogens
Published: December 2013

Background:

Dignity Therapy is a brief, psychosocial intervention for patients with incurable disease.

Aim:

To investigate participation in and evaluation of Dignity Therapy and longitudinal changes in patient-rated outcomes.

Design:

A prospective (pre/post) evaluation design was employed. Evaluation questionnaires were completed when patients received the generativity document (T1) and 2 weeks later (T2). Changes from baseline (T0) were measured in sense of dignity, Structured Interview for Symptoms and Concerns items, Patient Dignity Inventory, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer QLQ-C15-PAL ( ClinicalTrials.gov number: NCT01507571).

Setting/participants:

Consecutive patients with incurable cancer, ≥18 years, informed of prognosis and not having cognitive impairment/physical limitations precluding participation were included at a hospice and a hospital palliative medicine unit.

Results:

Over 2 years, 80 of 341 eligible patients completed Dignity Therapy. At T1, 55 patients completed evaluations, of whom 73%–89% found Dignity Therapy helpful, satisfactory and of help to relatives; 47%–56% reported that it heightened their sense of purpose, dignity and will to live. Quality of life decreased (mean = −9 (95% confidence interval: −14.54; −2.49)) and depression increased (mean = 0.31 (0.06; 0.57)) on one of several depression measures. At T2 ( n = 31), sense of dignity (mean = −0.52 (−1.01; −0.02)) and sense of being a burden to others (mean = −0.26 (−0.49; −0.02)) improved. Patients with children and lower performance status, emotional functioning and quality of life were more likely to report benefit.

Conclusions:

This study adds to the growing body of evidence supporting Dignity Therapy as a valuable intervention in palliative care; a substantial subset of patients facing end of life found it manageable, relevant and beneficial.
The risk of radiation-induced breast cancers due to biennial mammographic screening in women aged 50–69 years is minimal
Authors: Hauge Ingrid Helen Ryste , Pedersen Kristin , Olerud Hilde Merete , Hole Eli Olaug , Hofvind Solveig
Published: December 2013

Background

The main aim of mammographic screening is to reduce the mortality from breast cancer. However, use of ionizing radiation is considered a potential harm due to the possible risk of inducing cancer in healthy women.

Purpose

To estimate the potential number of radiation-induced breast cancers, radiation-induced breast cancer deaths, and lives saved due to implementation of organized mammographic screening as performed in Norway.

Material and Methods

We used a previously published excess absolute risk model which assumes a linear no-threshold dose-response. The estimates were calculated for 100,000 women aged 50–69 years, a screening interval of 2 years, and with an assumed follow-up until the age of 85 or 105 years. Radiation doses of 0.7, 2.5, and 5.7 mGy per screening examination, a latency time of 5 or 10 years, and a dose and dose-rate effectiveness factor (DDREF) of 1 or 2 were applied.

Results

The total lifetime risk of radiation-induced breast cancers per 100,000 women was 10 (95% CI: 4–25) if the women were followed from the ages of 50 to 85 years, for a dose of 2.5 mGy, a latency time of 10 years, and a DDREF of 1. For the same parameter values the number of radiation-induced breast cancer death was 1 (95% CI: 0–2). The assumed number of lives saved is approximately 350.

Conclusion

The risk of radiation-induced breast cancer and breast cancer death due to mammographic screening is minimal. Women should not be discouraged from attending screening due to fear of radiation-induced breast cancer death.
A probable role of blood lead levels on some haematological parameters in traffic police, Lahore, Pakistan
Authors: Khan Shafaat Yar , Arshad Muhammad , Arshad Najma , Shafaat Shazia , Tahir Hafiz Muhammad
Published: December 2013

The impact of elevated blood lead level on some haematological parameters was studied in the field force of Lahore traffic police, in Pakistan. The blood samples were tested for total leucocytes count (TLC) and differential leucocytes count in the persons with high and low blood lead levels. The TLC and percentage of neutrophils and eosinophils were observed as being significantly elevated in the policemen. No significant change was observed in the percentage of lymphocytes, while the percentage of monocytes was observed as being significantly less in the field force of traffic police.