bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PD-1 Blockade Enhances T-cell Migration to Tumors by Elevating IFN-γ Inducible Chemokines
Authors: Peng Weiyi , Liu Chengwen , Xu Chunyu , Lou Yanyan , Chen Jieqing , Yang Yan , Yagita Hideo , Overwijk Willem W. , Lizée Gregory , Radvanyi Laszlo , Hwu Patrick
Published: August 2012

Adoptive cell transfer (ACT) is considered a promising modality for cancer treatment, but despite ongoing improvements, many patients do not experience clinical benefits. The tumor microenvironment is an important limiting factor in immunotherapy that has not been addressed fully in ACT treatments. In this study, we report that upregualtion of the immunosuppressive receptor programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) expressed on transferred T cells at the tumor site, in a murine model of ACT, compared with its expression on transferred T cells present in the peripheral blood and spleen. As PD-1 can attenuate T-cell–mediated antitumor responses, we tested whether its blockade with an anti–PD-1 antibody could enhance the antitumor activity of ACT in this model. Cotreatment with both agents increased the number of transferred T cells at the tumor site and also enhanced tumor regressions, compared with treatments with either agent alone. While anti–PD-1 did not reduce the number of immunosuppressive regulatory T cells and myeloid-derived suppressor cells present in tumor-bearing mice, we found that it increased expression of IFN-γ and CXCL10 at the tumor site. Bone marrow–transplant experiments using IFN-γR−/− mice implicated IFN-γ as a crucial nexus for controlling PD-1–mediated tumor infiltration by T cells. Taken together, our results imply that blocking the PD-1 pathway can increase IFN-γ at the tumor site, thereby increasing chemokine-dependent trafficking of immune cells into malignant disease sites. Cancer Res; 72(20); 5209–18. ©2012 AACR.
Molecular Subsets of Mantle Cell Lymphoma Defined by the IGHV Mutational Status and SOX11 Expression Have Distinct Biologic and Clinical Features
Authors: Navarro Alba , Clot Guillem , Royo Cristina , Jares Pedro , Hadzidimitriou Anastasia , Agathangelidis Andreas , Bikos Vasilis , Darzentas Nikos , Papadaki Theodora , Salaverria Itziar , Pinyol Magda , Puig Xavier , Palomero Jara , Vegliante Maria Carmela , Amador Virgina , Martinez-Trillos Alejandra , Stefancikova Lenka , Wiestner Adrian , Wilson Wyndham , Pott Christiane , Calasanz Maria Jose , Trim Nicola , Erber Wendy , Sander Birgitta , Ott German , Rosenwald Andreas , Colomer Dolors , Giné Eva , Siebert Reiner , Lopez-Guillermo Armando , Stamatopoulos Kostas , Beà Sílvia , Campo Elías
Published: August 2012

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a heterogeneous disease with most patients following an aggressive clinical course, whereas others having an indolent behavior. We conducted an integrative and multidisciplinary analysis of 177 MCL to determine whether the immunogenetic features of the clonotypic B-cell receptors (BcR) may identify different subsets of tumors. Truly unmutated (100% identity) IGHV genes were found in 24% cases, 40% were minimally/borderline mutated (99.9%–97%), 19% significantly mutated (96.9%–95%), and 17% hypermutated (<95%). Tumors with high or low mutational load used different IGHV genes, and their gene expression profiles were also different for several gene pathways. A gene set enrichment analysis showed that MCL with high and low IGHV mutations were enriched in memory and naive B-cell signatures, respectively. Furthermore, the highly mutated tumors had less genomic complexity, were preferentially SOX11-negative, and showed more frequent nonnodal disease. The best cut-off of germline identity of IGHV genes to predict survival was 97%. Patients with high and low mutational load had significant different outcome with 5-year overall survival (OS) of 59% and 40%, respectively (P = 0.004). Nodal presentation and SOX11 expression also predicted for poor OS. In a multivariate analysis, IGHV gene status and SOX11 expression were independent risk factors. In conclusion, these observations suggest the idea that MCL with mutated IGHV, SOX11-negativity, and nonnodal presentation correspond to a subtype of the disease with more indolent behavior. Cancer Res; 72(20); 5307–16. ©2012 AACR.
Meta-Analysis of the Prognostic Value of Circulating Tumor Cells in Breast Cancer
Authors: Zhang Liling , Riethdorf Sabine , Wu Gang , Wang Tao , Yang Kunyu , Peng Gang , Liu Junli , Pantel Klaus
Published: August 2012

Purpose: The prognostic value of circulating tumor cells (CTC) detected in breast cancer patients is currently under debate. Different time points of blood collections and various CTC assays have been used in the past decades. Here, we conducted the first comprehensive meta-analysis of published literature on the prognostic relevance of CTC, including patients with early and advanced disease.

Experimental Design: A comprehensive search for articles published between January 1990 and January 2012 was conducted; reviews of each study were conducted and data were extracted. The main outcomes analyzed were overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) in early-stage breast cancer patients, as well as progression-free survival (PFS) and OS in metastatic breast cancer patients. Pooled hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using the random and the fixed-effects models. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were also conducted.

Results: Forty-nine eligible studies enrolling 6,825 patients were identified. The presence of CTC was significantly associated with shorter survival in the total population. The prognostic value of CTC was significant in both early (DFS: HR, 2.86; 95% CI, 2.19–3.75; OS: HR, 2.78; 95% CI, 2.22–3.48) and metastatic breast cancer (PFS: HR, 1.78; 95% CI, 1.52–2.09; OS: HR, 2.33; 95% CI, 2.09–2.60). Further subgroup analyses showed that our results were stable irrespective of the CTC detection method and time point of blood withdrawal.

Conclusion: Our present meta-analysis indicates that the detection of CTC is a stable prognosticator in patients with early-stage and metastatic breast cancer. Further studies are required to explore the clinical utility of CTC in breast cancer. Clin Cancer Res; 18(20); 5701–10. ©2012 AACR.
Use of Home Device for Early Detection of Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Loewenstein Anat
Published: August 2012

Early treatment for choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is an important part of preserving visual function for patients with age-related macular degeneration. Preferential hyperacuity perimetry (PHP) provides high accuracy, sensitivity and specificity for detecting changes in lesions in diagnostic and treatment stages. The ForeseeHome is a PHP device designed for home use by patients. Regular use alerts retina specialists and patients of detected changes and allows patients to come in for visits when CNV begins or recurs. To maximize the benefit of recent breakthroughs in CNV treatment, patients should be better monitored with the ForeseeHome to detect new CNV while their vision is still good, and to promptly manage recurrence after treatment.
Evidence for Anti-VEGF Treatment of Diabetic Macular Edema
Authors: Bandello F. , Berchicci L. , La Spina C. , Battaglia Parodi M. , Iacono P.
Published: August 2012

Diabetic macular edema (DME) is the most important cause of vision loss in patients with diabetes mellitus. Diabetic retinopathy has a remarkable impact on public health and on the quality of life of diabetic patients and thus requires special consideration. The first line of treatment remains the management of systemic risk factors but is often insufficient in controlling DME and currently, laser retinal photocoagulation is considered the standard of care. However, laser treatment reduces the risk of moderate visual loss by approximately 50% without guaranteeing remarkable effects on visual improvement. For these reasons, new strategies in the treatment of DME have been studied, in particular the use of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) drugs. VEGF is a pluripotent growth factor that acts as a vasopermeability factor and an endothelial cell mitogen. For this reason, it represents an interesting candidate as a therapeutic target for the treatment of DME. The aim of this article is to review the evidence behind the use of anti-VEGF drugs in the treatment of DME.
Staining of the Internal Limiting Membrane with the Use of Heavy Brilliant Blue G
Authors: Pelayes David E. , Kuhn Ferenc , Folgar Anibal Martin , Takahashi Walter , Bastien Andres , Vinicius P. Nascimento , Zarate Jorge Oscar
Published: August 2012

Background: Brilliant blue G (BBG) is frequently used in chromovitrectomy to facilitate internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling. A study was initiated to evaluate if heavy BBG is safe and effective in staining the ILM. Methods: We studied 30 eyes, 23 with idiopathic macular holes and 7 of patients with diabetic macular edema. Removal of the ILMs was assisted by heavy BBG staining. In cases with histopathological correlation the ILMs were evaluated with hematoxylin and eosin, Masson’s trichrome, periodic acid-Schiff and glial fibrillary acidic protein staining. In addition, immunohistochemistry was also performed using specific antibodies for vimentin, neuron-specific enolase, factor VIII and CD68. Using the Image-Pro Plus software of Media Cybernetics Co. we found an average thickness in ILMs. Results: Of the ILM specimens sent, 19/30 (63.33%) could not be processed properly because of the limited sample material, recognizing only fragments of dispersed fibrillar material. In macular hole ILMs we found an average thickness of 1.3 ± 0.65 µm, and in diabetic macular edema ILMs an average thickness of 6.2 ± 1.4 µm. Conclusions: In heavy BBG-assisted ILM peeling we observed no intraoperative or postoperative complications after a mean follow-up of 12 months. Heavy BBG could be an effective and safe vehicle for staining the ILM.
Cerebrospinal Fluid β-Amyloid Turnover in the Mouse, Dog, Monkey and Human Evaluated by Systematic Quantitative Analyses
Authors: Lu Yasong , Barton Hugh A. , Leung Louis , Zhang Liming , Hajos-Korcsok Eva , Nolan Charles E. , Liu Jianhua , Becker Stacey L. , Wood Kathleen M. , Robshaw Ashley E. , Taylor Christine K. , O'Neill Brian T. , Brodney Michael A. , Riddell David
Published: August 2012

Background: Reducing brain β-amyloid (Aβ) via inhibition of β-secretase, or inhibition/modulation of γ-secretase, has been widely pursued as a potential disease-modifying treatment for Alzheimer's disease. Compounds that act through these mechanisms have been screened and characterized with Aβ lowering in the brain and/or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) as the primary pharmacological end point. Interpretation and translation of the pharmacokinetic (PK)/pharmacodynamic (PD) relationship for these compounds is complicated by the relatively slow Aβ turnover process in these compartments. Objective: To understand Aβ turnover kinetics in preclinical species and humans. Methods: We collected CSF Aβ dynamic data after β- or γ-secretase inhibitor treatment from in-house experiments and the public domain, and analyzed the data using PK/PD modeling to obtain CSF Aβ turnover rates (kout) in the mouse, dog, monkey and human. Results: The kout for CSF Aβ40 follows allometry (kout = 0.395 × body weight-0.351). The kout for CSF Aβ40 is approximately 2-fold higher than the turnover of CSF in rodents, but in higher species, the two are comparable. Conclusion: The turnover of CSF Aβ40 was systematically examined, for the first time, in multiple species through quantitative modeling of multiple data sets. Our result suggests that the clearance mechanisms for CSF Aβ in rodents may be different from those in the higher species. The understanding of Aβ turnover has considerable implications for the discovery and development of Aβ-lowering therapeutics, as illustrated from the perspectives of preclinical PK/PD characterization and preclinical-to-clinical translation.
Preconditioning Deep Convection with Cumulus Congestus
Authors: Hohenegger Cathy , Stevens Bjorn
Published: August 2012

Recent studies have pushed forward the idea that congestus clouds, through their moistening of the atmosphere, could promote deep convection. On the other hand, older studies have tended to relate convective initiation to the large-scale forcing. These two views are here contrasted by performing a time-scale analysis. The analysis combines ship observations, large-eddy simulations, and 1 month of brightness temperature measurements with a focus on the tropical Atlantic and adjacent land areas.

The time-scale analysis suggests that previous work may have overstated the importance of congestus moistening in the preconditioning of deep convection. It is found that cumuli congestus transition very rapidly to deep convection, in 2 h over land and 4 h over ocean. This is much faster than the time needed (10 h and longer) by congestus clouds to sufficiently moisten the atmosphere. Moreover, the majority of congestus clouds seem unable to grow into cumulonimbus and the probability of transition does not increase with increasing congestus lifetime (i.e., more moistening). Finally, the presence of cumuli congestus over a given region generally does not enhance the likelihood for deep convection development, either with respect to other regions or to clear-sky conditions. Hence, the results do not support the view of an atmosphere slowly deepening by local moistening, but rather, they may be interpreted as reminiscent of an atmosphere marked by violent and sudden outbursts of convection forced by dynamical effects. This also implies that moisture convergence is more important than local surface fluxes to trigger deep convection over a certain region.
Multidecadal Mobility of the North Atlantic Oscillation
Authors: Moore G. W. K. , Renfrew I. A. , Pickart R. S.
Published: August 2012

The North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) is one of the most important modes of variability in the global climate system and is characterized by a meridional dipole in the sea level pressure field, with centers of action near Iceland and the Azores. It has a profound influence on the weather, climate, ecosystems, and economies of Europe, Greenland, eastern North America, and North Africa. It has been proposed that around 1980, there was an eastward secular shift in the NAO’s northern center of action that impacted sea ice export through Fram Strait. Independently, it has also been suggested that the location of its southern center of action is tied to the phase of the NAO. Both of these attributes of the NAO have been linked to anthropogenic climate change. Here the authors use both the one-point correlation map technique as well as empirical orthogonal function (EOF) analysis to show that the meridional dipole that is often seen in the sea level pressure field over the North Atlantic is not purely the result of the NAO (as traditionally defined) but rather arises through an interplay among the NAO and two other leading modes of variability in the North Atlantic region: the East Atlantic (EA) and the Scandinavian (SCA) patterns. This interplay has resulted in multidecadal mobility in the two centers of action of the meridional dipole since the late nineteenth century. In particular, an eastward movement of the dipole has occurred during the 1930s to 1950s as well as more recently. This mobility is not seen in the leading EOF of the sea level pressure field in the region.
An Initial Assessment of Antarctic Sea Ice Extent in the CMIP5 Models
Authors: Turner John , Bracegirdle Thomas J. , Phillips Tony , Marshall Gareth J. , Hosking J. Scott
Published: August 2012

This paper examines the annual cycle and trends in Antarctic sea ice extent (SIE) for 18 models used in phase 5 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5) that were run with historical forcing for the 1850s to 2005. Many of the models have an annual SIE cycle that differs markedly from that observed over the last 30 years. The majority of models have too small of an SIE at the minimum in February, while several of the models have less than two-thirds of the observed SIE at the September maximum. In contrast to the satellite data, which exhibit a slight increase in SIE, the mean SIE of the models over 1979–2005 shows a decrease in each month, with the greatest multimodel mean percentage monthly decline of 13.6% decade−1 in February and the greatest absolute loss of ice of −0.40 × 106 km2 decade−1 in September. The models have very large differences in SIE over 1860–2005. Most of the control runs have statistically significant trends in SIE over their full time span, and all of the models have a negative trend in SIE since the mid-nineteenth century. The negative SIE trends in most of the model runs over 1979–2005 are a continuation of an earlier decline, suggesting that the processes responsible for the observed increase over the last 30 years are not being simulated correctly.
Effect of Calcium Salt of Functional Monomer on Bonding Performance
Authors: Iwai H. , Nishiyama N.
Published: August 2012

To determine the amount of 10-methacryloyloxydecyl dihydrogen phosphate (MDP)-calcium (MDP-Ca) salt produced through the demineralization of enamel or dentin by MDP, we designed experimental MDP-based one-step adhesives with different amounts of MDP. The null hypotheses were that (1) the amount of MDP-Ca salt produced through the demineralization of enamel was the same as that for dentin, and (2) the amounts of MDP-Ca salt have no effect on bonding performance. Increases in the amount of MDP resulted in increased amounts of MDP-Ca salt. The production amount of MDP-Ca salt of the dentin was 1.3 times higher than that of the enamel. The predominant species of the MDP and enamel reactants was a calcium hydrogen phosphate of MDP. In contrast, the dentin yielded both calcium phosphate and calcium hydrogen phosphate of MDP. Increases in the amount of MDP-Ca salt decreased both enamel and dentin bond strengths. An optimal concentration of MDP exists in one-step self-etch adhesives.
Pinpointing the Deficit in Executive Functions in Adolescents With Dyslexia Performing the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test
Authors: Horowitz-Kraus Tzipi
Published: August 2012

Adolescents with dyslexia exhibit well-established impairments in executive abilities. The Wisconsin card sorting test (WCST) is an executive test that yields surprisingly inconsistent results with this population. The current study aimed to shed light on the contradictory findings in the literature regarding the performance levels by individuals with dyslexia in WCST. We used a computerized-WCST (named the ‘Madrid-Card Sorting Test’) assessing executive functions using the Event-Related Potentials (ERPs) methodology. Adolescents with dyslexia exhibited a higher error rate and slower reaction times. This was most evident in the later trials of the series. However, differences in ERPs between the two groups were found only in the “target-locked” conditions, where individuals with dyslexia displayed decreased ERP components (N100, P300) compared to skilled readers. The changes between the groups in the “shift” compared to the “stay” conditions suggest the central role of working memory both in basic (e.g., shifting) and higher order (e.g., reading) processes in individuals with dyslexia. These findings suggest the central role of working memory both in basic (e.g., shifting) and higher order (e.g., reading) processes in individuals with dyslexia. The intact shifting mechanism and the working memory deficit may guide the building of more efficient intervention programs for individuals with dyslexia in the future.
Mitigating Uncertainty and Risk in Planning for Regional Preparedness: The Role of Bonding and Bridging Relationships
Authors: Andrew Simon A. , Carr Jered B.
Published: August 2012

The nature of emergency preparedness is that problems are seldom immediate and continuous, and effective emergency planning requires the involvement and sustained commitment of multiple organisations and their personnel. It is proposed that the level of participation by local organisations in formal regional planning activities is related to the social position their managers play in local planning networks. Local organisations embedded in bonding structures may choose to be active in regional planning initiatives in order to establish close contacts with others they believe can provide them with valuable planning information. Alternatively, organisations may choose to be more active participants in region-wide planning activities because this role supports their bridging activities by providing them with greater control over information about the activities and resources of the different jurisdictions in the region. These propositions are examined through an analysis of the participation by officials from 73 local governments in two regional committees designed to promote emergency preparedness planning throughout the Dallas–Fort Worth–Denton, Texas, metropolitan area. The analysis provides strong support for the proposition that the organisations in bonding structures in this network have a more active role in the work of these two committees.
Minimized perfusion circuits: an alternative in the surgical treatment of Jehovah’s Witnesses
Authors: El-Essawi A , Breitenbach I , Ali K , Jungebluth P , Brouwer R , Anssar M , Harringer W
Published: August 2012

Objectives:

Jehovah’s Witnesses present a challenge to cardiac surgeons, as quality of care is not only defined by mortality and morbidity, but also by the avoidance of blood transfusions. Over the last years, minimized perfusion circuits (MPC) have contributed substantially to the achievement of this goal in our clinic. Presented is a retrospective analysis of our experience.

Methods:

Twenty-nine Jehovah’s Witnesses, aged 69 ± 10 years, have undergone cardiac surgery with a MPC in our institution since 2005. The ROCsafe (Reservoir Optional Circuit) MPC was used in most of these patients (n=27) as it offers the unique possibility of a speedy integration of a reservoir in the event of a major air leak, thereby, negligating any safety concerns.

Results:

There was no in-hospital or 30-day postoperative mortality. Mean ICU stay was 1.6 ± 2 days with a mean intubation time of 11.3 ± 9.1 hrs. Postoperative complications included one myocardial infarction with accompanying low cardiac output, one stroke, one transient delirium, one idiopathic thrombocytopenia and three re-operations (one sternal infection, one postoperative bleeding and one delayed tamponade). The mean postoperative hospital stay was 9.9 ± 2.3 days. Mean decrease in hemoglobin was 2.1 ± 1.3 g/dl during cardiopulmonary bypass and 3.4 ±1.4 g/dl at discharge. The lowest postoperative hemoglobin level was 9.3 ±1.8 (Range 6-12.9).

Conclusions:

These encouraging results emphasize the role MPCs can play in optimizing the quality of patient care. We hope that this report can serve as a stimulus for similar experiences.
Genetic histories: Native Americans’ accounts of being at risk for diabetes
Authors: Sahota Puneet Chawla
Published: August 2012

In an age of genetic medicine, ethnic groups are increasingly being labeled at risk for chronic diseases. Biomedical and genetics research studies have had a significant impact on Native Americans’ perceptions of diabetes risk. Ethnographic interviews with 53 Native Americans were conducted in a tribal community that has participated extensively in studies of diabetes. Tribal members had varying reactions to research labeling them at risk genetically for diabetes, from fatalism to motivation for changing diet/exercise habits. Interviewees spontaneously discussed the ‘thrifty genotype’ hypothesis in diverse ways. Some felt Native Americans had ‘weak genes’ that made them ‘poorly adapted’ to modern society’s diet, while others stated that Native Americans had ‘survival genes’ that historically helped them thrive in harsh environments. Interviewees used genetics as a metaphor for expressing vulnerability in the face of a challenging history that resulted in rapid changes to Native American lifestyles. Interestingly, some tribal members saw biomedical research as a tool to help them ‘adapt’ to the modern world. Collaborative research may provide tribes with unique opportunities to actively address the diabetes epidemic. Researchers’ and healthcare providers’ descriptions of diabetes risk have important implications for how community members perceive their ability to prevent or manage the disease.
Executive resting-state network connectivity in migraine without aura
Authors: Russo Antonio , Tessitore Alessandro , Giordano Alfonso , Corbo Daniele , Marcuccio Laura , De Stefano Manuela , Salemi Fabrizio , Conforti Renata , Esposito Fabrizio , Tedeschi Gioacchino
Published: August 2012

Background: Converging neuropsychological evidence suggests that in migraine executive functions (EF) may be affected during interictal periods.

Objective: To evaluate the functional connectivity of the fronto-parietal networks (FPN) known to be associated with EF, in migraine without aura (MwoA) patients, in the interictal period, in comparison to healthy controls (HC).

Methods: Using resting-state functional MRI (RS-fMRI), we compared functional connectivity within the FPN in 14 patients with MwoA versus 14 sex- and age-matched HC, and assessed the correlation between functional connectivity within FPN, clinical features of MwoA patients, and EF. We used voxel-based morphometry to assess whether between-group differences in functional connectivity were dependent on structural differences.

Results: Neuropsychological data revealed no significant executive dysfunction in MwoA patients. RS-fMRI showed that MwoA patients, compared to HC, had significant functional connectivity reduction within the right FPN and specifically in the middle frontal gyrus (MFG) and the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex. In addition, we found that MFG reduced connectivity was negatively correlated with the pain intensity of migraine attacks. There were no structural differences between the two groups.

Conclusions: Our data suggest that, even in the absence of clinically evident EF deficits, MwoA is associated with reduced FPN functional connectivity. This study provides further insights into the complex scenario of migraine mechanisms.
A replication study of a GWAS finding in migraine does not identify association in a Spanish case-control sample
Authors: Sintas Cèlia , Carreño Oriel , Fernández-Morales Jèssica , Cacheiro Pilar , Sobrido María-Jesús , Narberhaus Bernat , Pozo-Rosich Patricia , Macaya Alfons , Cormand Bru
Published: August 2012

Background: Migraine is a prevalent neurological disorder with a complex genetic background characterized by recurrent episodes of headache. The disease is subclassified into migraine with aura (MA) and migraine without aura (MO). Many association studies have been performed to date to identify genetic risk variants for common migraine, most of them focusing on selected candidate genes, with variable and often inconsistent results. Recently, a clinic-based genome-wide association study for migraine reported a functionally relevant risk variant (SNP rs1835740), involved in glutamate homeostasis, which showed a significant association with MA. We aimed to replicate this finding in a clinic-based study of a Spanish cohort with MA and MO patients.

Methods: We genotyped SNP rs1835740 in a Spanish sample of 1521 patients and 1379 screened controls and performed a case-control association study.

Conclusion: No association was found between the assayed SNP and any of the clinical groups considered.
Effect of TiO2 and ZnS fillers on the bearing strength of gfrp composites
Authors: Arun KV , Kumar D Sujay , Murugesh MC
Published: August 2012

In the present work an attempt has been made to investigate the bearing strength of the TiO2 and ZnS filled glass fabric reinforced polymer matrix composites (GFRP). The volume fractions in the matrix were chosen as 1, 2 and 3%. Single-hole-pin-loaded specimens of each composite material were tested in tension. The result showed that the bearing strength of the glass fabric reinforced polymer matrix composites joints is associated with the filler content and the geometrical parameters. The increase of the filler content in the matrix has increased the bearing strength of the composites. The height bearing strength was obtained in case of composites with 2 volume% of filler content, and it was found that ZnS filled composites bears more load than the TiO2 filled composites.
Analysis and determination for the parameters of “cohesive element” in the numerical model of single fiber composites: the elastic parameters
Authors: Liu Changxi , Zhou Zhengong , Wang Xiaohong , Zhang Boming
Published: August 2012

In the fiber-reinforced resin matrix composites, the “interphase” is an important component. And the “cohesive element” is usually used to characterize the mechanical properties of “interphase” in numerical models based on the general finite element software ABAQUS. But the corresponding parameters of it are difficult to be determined. So the single-carbon fiber-reinforced resin matrix composites are used as the main research object and the method combining resistance experiment and numerical analysis is adopted. Then in the numerical models of three different single-carbon fiber composites (CCF/epoxy128, CCF/epoxy5228, CCF/Bismaleimide5428), the parameters of the “cohesive element” are analyzed and determined. It turned out that in CCF/Bismaleimide5428, the parameters are much higher (they are 10–12 GPa). It is also demonstrated that the ability of transferring load of “interphase” is much stronger in it than the other single fiber composites. What’s more, these parameters will be used for the numerical analysis of macroscopic mechanical properties of composites in future.
Microwave pyrolysis as a method of recycling glass fibre from used blades of wind turbines
Authors: Åkesson Dan , Foltynowicz Zenon , Christéen Jonas , Skrifvars Mikael
Published: August 2012

The possibility of recycling glass fibre-reinforced composites by using microwave pyrolysis was examined. A scrap blade from a wind turbine was fragmented and microwave-pyrolysed. The glass fibre recovered after pyrolysis represented 70% of the initial mass of glass fibre-reinforced composites . The tensile strength of the glass fibre recovered was measured after pyrolysis and compared to the tensile strength of untreated glass fibre. The test showed that the fibres lost about 25% of their tenacity. Non-woven fibre mats were prepared from the recovered fibres. Laminates were then prepared from the non-woven mats obtained, together with virgin glass fibre mats. Mechanical testing of the laminates showed that it is possible to prepare composites using 25 wt% of recycled fibres, with relatively good mechanical properties.
Compression strength of stitched foam-core sandwich composites with impact induced damage
Authors: Ma Jian , Yan Ying , Liu Yu Jia , Yang Lei
Published: August 2012

Compression-after-impact responses of sandwich structures composed of stitched foam core and woven face sheets have been investigated experimentally and numerically. In the impact experiment, the force-time curves are recorded and analyzed to study the impact response of stitched foam core sandwich structures. In the compression-after-impact test, the damage mechanism of stitched sandwich structures during compression loading is revealed. The compression cracks start from the impact-induced damage location and propagate perpendicular to the compression direction. The final failure of the structure is controlled by the crush of the woven skin in the upper panel. For the relatively densely stitched foam sandwich, more fiber resin columns embed in the stitched samples decrease the impact-induced damage in upper panel when subject to impact load and increase the stiffness and strength of the foam in the compression direction during the compression-after-impact test, causing an increase in compression strength of relatively densely stitched sandwich. The relationship of compression-after-impact strength with stitching density appears linear when the impact energy is small, since there is no perforation or penetration. In numerical simulation, multi-scale approach has been developed on evaluating the compression-after-impact strength of sandwich structures. The classical theory of homogenization is adapted and used by treating the foam strengthened by the glass fiber resin column as orthotropic equivalent core material whose elastic properties depended on each component and their volume participation. Then, a nonlinear finite element model using this approach is proposed. Good agreements between finite element model and experiment are found.
Shear response of carbon fiber composite pyramidal truss structures after high-temperature exposure
Authors: Liu Jiayi , Zhou Zhengong , Wu Linzhi , Ma Li , Pan Shidong
Published: August 2012

Shear behavior and residual strength at room temperature of carbon fiber composite sandwich panel with pyramidal truss cores exposed to different temperatures for different time were studied experimentally and analytically. Experimental results showed that the residual shear modulus and strength of composite sandwich panels decreased with increasing exposure temperature and time. The decreasing of shear modulus and strength after thermal exposure was mainly attributed to the degradation of the matrix property and fiber-matrix interface property. The effect of high-temperature exposure on failure mode was revealed as well. The failure was characterized by node rupture when sandwich panels were exposed to temperature in a range of 20–250°C, while node rupture and face sheet delamination were observed when specimens were exposed to 280°C. The analytical formulae were also presented to describe residual shear modulus and strength after thermal exposure.
Polypropylene/glass fiber/nanoclay hybrid composites: morphological, thermal, dynamic mechanical and impact behaviors
Authors: Rahman Normasmira A , Hassan Aziz , Yahya R , Lafia-Araga RA , Hornsby PR
Published: August 2012

Polypropylene/E-glass fiber/nanoclay were compounded with a twin-screw extruder and injection molded. Thermal, dynamic mechanical, and impact tests were carried out. Differential scanning calorimetry investigations showed that the incorporation of nanoclay into polypropylene/glass fiber composite shifted the melting temperature ( Tm) to higher values. The degree of crystallinity ( Xc) was strongly influenced by the presence of the glass fiber and nanoclay in the matrix. Dynamic mechanical analysis showed an increase in storage modulus ( E′); indicating higher stiffness of the hybrid composites when compared to the glass fiber composites and the virgin matrix. From the tan  δ curves, a strong influence of glass fiber and nanoclay content on the magnitude of tan  δmax value was observed. Impact test showed a reduction in the critical strain energy release rate, Gc for hybrid composites with higher nanoclay loading. The stress intensity factor, Kc values showed insignificant effect with the presence of nanoclay and GF.
Elastic coupled buckling analysis in stiffened plates with T-bar stiffeners
Authors: Ahmad Rahbar-Ranji
Published: August 2012

Stiffened plate buckles in different modes, including web/flange buckling, torsional buckling, plate buckling, and interactions of them. Generally, interactions of different buckling modes in stiffened plates are ignored and elastic buckling analysis of each mode is treated separately. In some design codes, to cope with interactions of different buckling modes, the influence of adjacent elements are considered as rotational springs. The main aim of this study is to compare literature- and rule-based expressions to assess the elastic buckling strength of T-bar stiffened plates and to identify the applicability of selected expressions for certain conditions. Different buckling modes and their interactions are investigated, and critical Euler stresses are evaluated. Upon comparison with given expressions and the finite element method, it is found that some of the proposed expressions are not applicable in certain conditions.
The Gifts We Keep on Giving
Authors: Adams Gabrielle S. , Flynn Francis J. , Norton Michael I.
Published: August 2012

Five studies examined whether the practice of regifting—a social taboo—is as offensive to the original givers as potential regifters assume. Participants who imagined regifting a gift (receivers) thought that the original giver would be more offended than participants who imagined that their gifts were regifted (givers) reported feeling. Specifically, receivers viewed regifting as similar in offensiveness to throwing gifts away, yet givers clearly preferred the former. This asymmetry in emotional reactions to regifting was driven by an asymmetry in beliefs about entitlement. Givers believed that the act of gift giving passed title to the gift on to receivers, so that receivers were free to decide what to do with the gift; in contrast, receivers believed that givers retained some say in how their gifts were used. Finally, an intervention designed to destigmatize regifting by introducing a different normative standard (i.e., National Regifting Day) corrected the asymmetry in beliefs about entitlement and increased regifting.
No ‘F’ Theology without ‘F’ Action: Resistance and Praxis in the Northern Ireland Context
Authors: Higgins Cathy
Published: August 2012

Patriarchy is a feature of Northern Ireland life. This is especially true in the Churches’ sector, which has negotiated itself out of being characterized as a public institution, thus ensuring that the equality legislation, statutory for public bodies since the implementation of the Northern Ireland Act (1998), is not applicable. The legacy of colonialism and a literal approach to biblical interpretation has reinforced patriarchal models of power in the public and private sphere, while arousing suspicion, even antipathy, toward feminism. In a society where a ‘them and us,’ power over, mindset and culture has predominated the violence of sexism, sectarianism, racism and homophobia is very much in evidence. Inter-church women’s groups, engaged in the Irish School of Ecumenics praxis based peacebuilding programme, have been undermining patriarchy’s hold in Church and community. Their alternative voices, and counter-cultural actions, witness to the need for an active non-violent, just and egalitarian society.
The Silenced Speak: Hannah, Mary, and Global Poverty
Authors: Yee Gale A.
Published: August 2012

Three of the United Nations Millennium Development Goals (MDG) to eradicate poverty are very much inter-related: ‘Promote gender equality and empower women,’ ‘Reduce child mortality,’ and ‘Improve maternal health.’ Although the biblical text has often been used to subordinate and oppress women, it can be a resource to empower women who live and give birth in conditions of grinding poverty. Put in the mouths of pregnant women, the Song of Hannah (1 Sam. 2) and Mary’s Magnificat (Lk. 1) envision a reversal of hierarchies, in which ‘The Lord raises up the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap.’ Attention will be paid to the social pre-exilic and Palestinian contexts of exploitation to which these songs speak.
Visualizing, Conceptualizing, Imagining and Praying the Christa: In Search of Her Risen Forms
Authors: Slee Nicola
Published: August 2012

This article explores the image and the concept of the Christa, evaluates its significance for contemporary feminist theology and spiritual practice, and suggests ways in which the notion of the Christa needs to be enlarged and developed. A distinction is made between visualizing the Christa in art and film, conceptualizing the Christa in theological discourse, imagining the Christa in fiction and poetry and ritualizing the Christa in liturgy and prayer. Whilst considerable attention has been paid to visual representations of the Christa, and feminist theologians have written about the Christa, little attention has been paid to the Christa in poetry and fiction, or as a focus of feminist prayer and ritual.
The Metaphor of Goddess: Religious Fictionalism and Nature Religion within Feminist Witchcraft
Authors: Klassen Chris
Published: August 2012

This paper explores the way some contemporary feminist Pagan practitioners talk about nature and goddess. I see these feminist Pagans as providing an example of a religion of nature, much like that of Donald Crosby’s (2002) that focuses on nature as the ultimate. However, unlike Crosby’s religion of nature, which could be perceived as isolationist, these feminist Witches’ willingness to maintain theistic language through religious fictionalism, even though non-realist, supports their community participation in an increasingly realist Pagan context.
The Final Apocalypse of Phallocentrism: Irigarayan Openings to the Matrix of Male Desire and Correction of the Non-male Subject in the Book of Revelation
Authors: Jansdotter Samuelsson Maria
Published: August 2012

Mythical stories are, according to Luce Irigaray, one source where the matrix of repression, desire and correction of the female body is made visible. The Book of Revelation is one of the parts of the Bible told in a typical mythical language framework. It is also one of the most infamous biblical books because of its misogynist approach and repeated use of female stereotypes such as the whore and the pure bride. The purpose of this article is not to deny the validity of this feminist critique, but to open up the meaning of the story of Revelation from an Irigarayan perspective as also to include possibilities of a counter-story where phallocentrism is challenged and finally altered into a new era where women, as well as other previously objectified categories, are aware of themselves as subjects in their own right.
Technical Efficiency of Comprehensive Emergency Obstetric and New-Born Care Centres in Tamil Nadu
Authors: Rajasulochana S. , Dash Umakant
Published: August 2012

Background: The state government of Tamil Nadu in India has been implementing various health sector reforms to bring down maternal and infant deaths. One such significant step was to set up Comprehensive Emergency Obstetric and New-born Care (CEmONC) centres all over Tamil Nadu under the World Bank-funded Tamil Nadu Health Systems Project (TNHSP) in 2005. However, to date, except for the pilot study reported in this article, no attempt has been made to make an estimate of the efficiency of the CEmONC centres in Tamil Nadu. The objective of this study, based on data on performance indicators collected by the TNHSP for the period April 2009 to March 2010 was to estimate the relative technical efficiency (TE) and scale efficiency (SE) of Phase 1 CEmONC centres in Tamil Nadu using the DEA method.

Methods: The Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) method was used to estimate the efficiency of 48 Phase 1 CEmONC centres operating in secondary hospitals across Tamil Nadu. This is an exploratory study.

Results: 10 (out of 48) centres were technically efficient, with an average TE score for inefficient centres of 72.3 per cent and a standard deviation (STD) of 15 per cent under the constant returns to scale assumption. Nineteen centres were technically efficient under variable returns to scale assumption with an average score of 81 per cent (STD of 14 per cent). Thirty-eight centres were scale inefficient with 84 per cent (STD of 11.79 per cent).

Discussion: This pilot study demonstrates to the policy-makers the versatility of DEA in measuring inefficiencies among CEmONC centres. A key limitation of this study is that it has not accounted for quality of care. Further research is required to examine why certain centres out-perform others.
Morbidity, Household Spending and the Burden of Health Care on the Urban Poor in Orissa
Authors: Das Sanjukta
Published: August 2012

Inadequate public spending on health care most probably is causing high morbidity and high proportion of household spending on curative health care in the poor state of Orissa. In a micro-study on morbidity, health care expense and burden on the poor in Sambalpur town, it was found that morbidity and disease prevalence rates among the poor are higher compared to that among the rich. The per capita monthly expenditure on health care is found to be as high as ₹299.57 and the median household is spending 17.91 per cent of its income on it. Households with monthly incomes of less than ₹3,000 are found spending approximately 68 per cent of their income on curative health expenditure. High out-of-pocket (OOP) spending on health care forced 21.43 per cent households to borrow; borrowing as a percentage of income is found to be 21.67 per cent on an average. The severity of the health care burden is found in the poorest. Borrowing increases the intensity of poverty and forces many non-poor/near-poor households to slip below the poverty line. The study argues for more government provision on health care to reduce the burden on the poor and to ensure equity.
User Fee Management in India
Authors: Mariappan M. , Thakur Harshad P.
Published: August 2012

Background: There have been a number of studies conducted on user fee across the world, however, very limited number of studies have been conducted in India. This study was one of studies conducted at government hospitals in four states in India with the support of the World Health Organization and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

Methodology: The data was collected from overall eight district hospitals, eight rural hospitals and four medical college hospitals, which were selected from the four selected states in India. Separately structured interview schedules were used for the stakeholders like employees and policy makers. The data was analyzed by the SPSS programme.

Results: The results were reported under four major sections like views on policy guidelines, operational systems, revenue generation and value creation to the users. It was found that the state of Rajasthan was to develop and govern relatively better policy of the user fee scheme. In maintaining appropriate operational systems Rajasthan was doing best, followed by Karnataka and Gujarat. In implementing appropriate mechanisms for collection of revenue Rajasthan and Gujarat were doing better. In creating value and support to patients, Rajasthan and Gujarat was doing better. Overall the user fee management was not adequately done in the states; however the state of Rajasthan has relatively improved because of the organized structure of the user fee management.

Conclusion: In the whole process, some of the important concerns of patients like value for money, meeting the genuine needs of patients and encouraging poor patients to utilize the services were inadequately addressed. After many years of implementation of the user fee scheme, the hospitals have been unable to improve quality of services up to patients’ expectations. The lesson learnt from the Rajasthan model may be replicated in other states which will be more useful. Further, it is very important for every state-run hospital to concentrate on viable systems, reduce unnecessary usage of services by the patients within the hospital and efficient operational management. It is to be noted in all four states, the policy makers and majority of the health care providers and some percentage of patients have considered that user fee should continue and it will be useful to the states.