bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Micromechanical Model for Slit-damaged Braided Fabric Air-beams
Authors: Rossettos John N. , Godfrey Thomas A.
Published: November 2005

A micromechanical model has been developed that will allow the study of a slit-damaged braided fabric air-beam structure. As such, the relevant system of non-dimensional ordinary differential equations is derived and solutions are given for the stress concentration near the broken yarns. This knowledge will contribute to the prediction of damage growth and the ability to compare different fabric materials for their damage tolerance. A simplification of the analysis has been shown to be possible when a parameter, e, the ratio of yarn tensions due to inflation to the yarn stiffness is small, approaching zero. In such a case, the equations for the braided fabric can be reduced to those of the plain weave fabric, so that the stress concentrations are the same as those for woven fabrics. As it turns out, an important result of the present analysis is that the stress concentration factor is, in fact, independent of the parameter, e, and the helix angle of the braided fabrics. This means that much of what has been learned in the study of damage in woven fabrics can be used for braided fabrics.
Copper(II)-Silk Fibroin Complex Fibers as Air-Purifying Materials for Removing Ammonia
Authors: Chen Wen Xing , Lu Su Fang , Yao Yu Yuan , Pan Yong , Shen Zhi Quan
Published: November 2005

To remove ammonia, traditional activated carbon is not as effective as expected. In this paper, a new alternative method of removing ammonia with metal-silk fibroin complex fibers through a coordination displacement reaction is proposed and studied. Electron spin resonance spectra (ESR) and atomic absorption spectrometry show that the Cu(O)4 complex with low copper(II) content is formed when silk fibroin is soaked in cupric aqueous solution under acid condition, while the structure of the Cu(N)4 complex with high copper(II) content is formed in a cuprammonia solution. Experimental results further show that the Cu(O)4 complex is more effective than the Cu(N)4 complex in term of ammonia adsorption. It is highly desirable to prepare a deodorizing material that has both high copper(II) content and a Cu(O)4 complex structure. Based on our study, a novel deodorizing fiber is prepared as follows: silk fibroin fibers are first treated with tannic acid (TA), then dipped into the cuprammonia solution to obtain the Cu(O)4 complex containing 8.5% (wt%) copper(II). Such fibers show high deodorizing performance and can be regenerated by heating.
Color and Pattern Analysis of Printed Fabric by an Unsupervised Clustering Method
Authors: Kuo Chung-Feng Jeffrey , Shih Chung-Yang , Kao Chih-Yuan , Lee Jiunn-Yih
Published: November 2005

In this paper, a novel approach to color and pattern analysis is proposed for printed fabric. An unsupervised analysis method is developed using a fuzzy C-means (FCM) clustering algorithm and a specific cluster-validity criterion (SC criterion). First, the printed fabric is captured by a color scanner and converted into full color digital files, then the mean filter is used to smooth the color of the image. The search for good cluster numbers is made by the SC criterion, and the corresponding color clusters are obtained based on the FCM clustering algorithm. Finally, the color and pattern features of the printed fabric are calculated. The experimental results show that this approach is very suitable for analyzing the colors and patterns of printed fabrics.
Predicting the Shearing Rigidity of Woven Fabrics
Authors: Wang Fumei , Xu Guangbiao , Xu Bugao
Published: November 2005

In this paper, we analyze the mechanical interaction of warp and weft yarns in shearing deformation, and establish theoretical equations expressing the relationship between the shearing rigidity and the fabric structures. To avoid calculating the rate of friction change during shearing deformation, we use KES data for twenty-seven worsted fabrics to create the empirical equations that describe the relationship between the rate of friction change and the contact area of yarns. By combining the theoretical and experimental equations, we develop equations for predicting the shearing rigidity of short-float worsted fabrics based on simple fabric structural data. Another set of worsted fabrics is used to validate the prediction equations.
Applying a Bisulfite Adduct of Polyisocyanate to Cotton Fabrics as a Durable Press Finishing Agent
Authors: Jiang Wan-Chao , Meng Wei-Dong , Qing Feng-Ling
Published: November 2005

The bisulfite adduct of polyisocyanate (BAP), designed and synthesized in our laboratory, is applied to cotton fabrics as a durable press finishing agent. The dry wrinkle recovery angles of the fabrics are increased by treatment with BAP alone, but the maximum attainable value can only reach the range of 180°-190°, which is less efficient than with modified dimethyloldihydroxyethyleneurea (266°) and citric acid (231°). In order to obtain high performance fabrics, we attempt to combine BAP with modified dimethyloldihydroxyethyleneurea or CA for cotton fabrics as durable press finishing agents. The fabrics treated with 4.0% BAP and 4.5% modified dimethyloldihydroxyethyleneurea in a single bath give satisfactory durable press performance with improved tensile and tear strength and a little-changed whiteness index. Nonformaldehyde fabrics with good durable press performance are produced by treatment with 4.0% BAP in combination with 7% citric acid (CA) under conditions of drying 3 minutes at 80°C and curing 2 minutes at 170°C with sodium hypophosphite as a curing catalyst.
Influence of Slipping Friction on Stress Concentration in Blended Yarns
Authors: Rossettos John N. , Godfrey Thomas A.
Published: November 2005

We report the effect of a variable frictional shear force distribution along a slipping broken fiber on the stress concentration (SCF) in blended yarns. Our micromechanical model leads to a system of second order differential equations, which we solve using a convenient eigenvector expansion approach. The results for an exponential variation of frictional shear on a slipping fiber, starting from zero at the broken end, are compared to those for a constant friction force. While the extent of the slip region increases by as much as 50% for the exponential variation compared to the constant friction case, the SCF changes only slightly, generally decreasing less than 6%. Decreases are smaller when a high elongation fiber is broken than when a low elongation fiber is broken. The hybrid effect in blended yarns, established in previous work, continues to be supported by these new results.
Bicomponent Fibers Derived from Immiscible Polymer Blends
Authors: Bosak D. R. , Ogale A. A. , Van Dun J.
Published: November 2005

Polypropylene fibers are extensively used in nonwovens, but are perceived as having undesirable tactile characteristics (plastic-like). This study investigates the use of immiscible polymer blends as the sheath component in bicomponent fibers with a polypropylene core. The sheath consists of blends of a continuous polyethylene phase (70 vol%) containing polystyrene or polyamide-6 as the dispersed phase (30 vol%). The bicomponent fibers are melt spun over a range of speeds (undrawn to 2000 m/min) and for two sheath contents (12.5 and 20 vol%). The immiscible blends create an irregular fiber surface, with the crystalline nature of the dispersed phase having the greatest effect on the resulting surface characteristics. The polystyrene dispersed phase creates an irregular fiber surface, whereas the polyamide dispersed phase results in a smoother fiber surface. Stresses experienced during fiber spinning lead to the formation of a fibrillar dispersed phase for polyamide-6, whereas the amorphous polymer phase produces an ellipsoidal ( i.e., nonfibrillar) dispersed phase. As fiber surface irregularities increase, tensile properties decrease. This study illustrates the range of surface properties that can be generated by using incompatible blends as the sheath material in bicomponent fibers.
Moisture Management Tester: A Method to Characterize Fabric Liquid Moisture Management Properties
Authors: Hu Junyan , Li Yi , Yeung Kwok-Wing , Wong Anthony S. W. , Xu Weilin
Published: November 2005

Fabric liquid moisture transport properties in multidimensions, called moisture management properties, significantly influence human perceptions of moisture sensations. A new method and instrument called the moisture management tester (MMT) is developed to evaluate textile moisture management properties. This new method can be used to quantitatively measure liquid moisture transfer in one step in a fabric in multidirections, where liquid moisture spreads on both surfaces of the fabric and transfers from one surface to the opposite. Ten indexes are introduced to characterize the liquid moisture management properties of fabrics. Eight sets of sportswear are tested with the MMT and the results show that liquid moisture management properties are significantly different for these fabrics. The objective measurements are compared with subjective perceptions of moisture sensations during exercise. A fabric’s one-way-transport capacity and its overall moisture management capacity are significantly correlated with perceptions of clammy and damp sensations with increased exercise time, indicating that subjective perceptions of moisture sensations in sweating such as clammy and damp can be predicted by the measurements of the MMT.
Adhesive Point-Bonded Spunbond Fabrics
Authors: Limem Skander , Warner Steven B.
Published: November 2005

Adhesive technology has improved enormously in the few past decades, so adhesive point-bonding of spunbond fabrics has been given a fresh look to ascertain whether thermal point-bonding may have a new challenge. Finite element analysis is implemented to develop a simple truss-based model capable of predicting the tensile behavior of adhesive point-bonded spunbond fabrics on the basis of the fibers, a judiciously chosen adhesive, and the web properties. Pattern-bonded polypropylene spunbonded fabrics are fabricated using a screen printing technique and tested. Stress-strain curves generated by finite element analysis agree with the experimental results. Tensile properties of the adhesive-bonded fabrics are significantly better than those of the same thermal point-bonded fabrics, even without optimizing the adhesive. Roll screen-applied UV rapid-cure adhesives may be used to develop a practical method of production.
Measuring the Streaming Potential of Polyurethane Blend Dope-Coated Fabrics
Authors: Muraoka Yoichiro , Enomoto Masao , Igarashi Chiaki , Shimizu Shunsuke , Nishizawa Kazuo
Published: November 2005

A new flow cell system we have designed for thin film samples is used to measure the streaming potential between two parallel films of a polyurethane (PU)/polyvinyl chloride (PVC) blend, and the ζ-potential of PU/PVC blend dope-coated nylon fabrics is then estimated. Furthermore, we propose a novel streaming potential method to directly measure coated films on the inside of the cell lid and the cell body. The ζ-potential of PVC-rich (hydrophobic) surfaces has a lower value than that of PU-rich (hydrophilic) surfaces.
A New Apparatus for the Study of Fabric Drape
Authors: Mizutani Chiyomi , Amano Toshihiko , Sakaguchi Yoshiyuki
Published: November 2005

A new drape elevator is developed to analyze the drape generation mechanism. The drape elevator can measure drape shape, including node generation at various stages during drape formation. The drape elevator method indicates better reproducibility of the drape coefficient of the fabrics than the conventional method. The drape formation process is experimentally found to consist of three stages, seeds generation, their development, and the final stabilizing stages. A new parameter R, evaluating the shape of the drape, is defined in terms of the drape projection. Both the R parameter and the drape coefficient are expected to be useful parameters for the quantitative analysis of fabric drape formation.
Heat and Moisture Transfer with Sorption and Phase Change Through Clothing Assemblies
Authors: Fan Jintu , Cheng Xiao-Yin
Published: November 2005

Part I of this two-part series reports on an experimental investigation of heat and moisture transfer through clothing assemblies consisting of porous fibrous battings sandwiched by inner and outer layers of a thin covering fabric. The experiments are conducted on a novel sweating, guarded hot plate at -20 °C. The temperature and water content distribution within the porous fibrous battings are obtained for four combinations of two kinds of fibrous battings (polyester and viscose) and two kinds of covering fabrics (one highly permeable nylon and the other a less permeable laminate. Most of the changes in temperature distribution take place within 30 minutes of the tests, and moisture absorption by the hygroscopic viscose fibers affects the temperature distribution. The water content accumulates with time, and water content is higher at the outer regions than at the inner regions of the battings. The accumulation and distribution of water content is a combined result of moisture absorption, condensation, and liquid water movement. The experimental findings form a basis for the development of a theoretical model to be reported in Part II of the series.
Air Flow in a Pneumatic Splicer by CFD
Authors: Zhou Jianheng , Qin Pengfei
Published: November 2005

The principle of air-splicing appears to be simple at first sight, but is actually complicated to explain in detail. Direct observation of splice formation is difficult, because the process occurs in the splicer extremely quickly. So far our research on air-splicing has been primarily based on analyzing experimental data only. This paper applies computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to the theoretical study of a pneumatic splicer, with a three-dimensional model developed to predict its performance. Several geometric parameters are varied in 3D CAD for the splicing chamber. The fluid flow in the splicing chamber is turbulent, and the standard k - ε model can be used to simulate it. The performance simulation of the pneumatic splicer is then studied and realized by the combination of UGII, a CAD/CAM software, and FLUENT, a CFD software, which can aid further discussion on applying CFD technology to the study of pneumatic splicing.
Dyeing Polyester Fabrics with Indigo
Authors: Kunttou Katsushi , Hongyo Setsuaki , Maeda Shingo , Mishima Kenji
Published: November 2005

Polyester fabrics are successfully dyed with indigo dye by controlling the ratio of sodium hydrosulfite and sodium hydroxide concentration in the dyebath solution, because non-ionic reduced indigo has a higher affinity for polyester fabrics than ionic reduced indigo. The value of total K/S increases with increased dyeing temperature. The color difference of indigo dye in the polyester and cotton fabrics is discussed interms of a reflection spectroscopic analysis. The difference in the maximum wavelength of indigo color for polyester and cotton fabrics is about 55 nm. Rub fastness on polyester dyed with indigo is superior to that on cotton.
Absorption Characteristics of Phenolic-Based Carbon Fiber Absorbents
Authors: Su Ching-Iuan , Li Jun-Ying , Wang Ching-Luh
Published: November 2005

Phenolic-based fabrics are used as base materials for preparing carbon fiber absorbents by means of oxidation, carbonization, and activation in a continuous semi-open high-temperature furnace. The effect of activation conditions on the pore characteristics and absorption capabilities is studied. The results show that the pore diameter of specimens is within 100 Å, indicating micropore and mesopore structures. In addition, phenolic-based carbon fiber absorbents show over 50% absorption for four volatile organic compounds, and their regeneration capabilities can reach 100%.
Comparison of the Performance Properties of Carpets Containing Nylon 6 and Nylon 66 Face Yarns
Authors: Radhakrishnaiah P.
Published: November 2005

A parametric analysis of the performance properties of a group of twenty-four well balanced carpet samples, half of which represent nylon 6 and the other half nylon 66 face yarns, shows that nylon 66 carpets offer superior performance in terms of texture retention and color fastness to ozone. There are no significant differences in measured performance properties between nylon 6 and 66 carpets in terms of soil repellency, oil repellency, water repellency, color fastness to light, color fastness to nitrous oxides, and thickness recovery from prolonged application of a static load. A nonparametric evaluation of an expert grader’s assessment through a paired comparison of nylon 6 and 66 carpets subjected to wear on a Vettermann drum tester shows that the grader overwhelmingly prefers nylon 66 over nylon 6 (fifty times out of fifty-four). The comparison, however, is between identically constructed carpets and not between carpets whose construction has been optimized for the specific fiber type. Since the texture of the finished carpet is believed to be influenced by a host of construction parameters such as fiber denier, fiber modulus, fiber cross-sectional shape, yarn denier, yarn twist, heat setting conditions, pile height, pile weight, etc., it would be interesting to see how a fiber-specific carpet construction and design optimization would influence the texture comparison. Both pile type and pile yarn weight exert an influence on texture retention properties as measured on the Vettermann tester. In addition, pile type influences soil repellency. Fluoropolymer treatment has a significant positive influence on color fastness to ozone, soil repellency, oil repellency, and water repellency properties.
Ion-Exchange Properties of Alginate Fibers
Authors: Qin Yimin
Published: November 2005

This paper describes a study of the ion exchange properties of alginate fibers. The release of calcium ions into the contacting solution is measured by an atomic absorption spectrometer. The calcium alginate fibers are placed in aqueous solutions of Na2SO4; with the formation of CaSO4, these fibers can be converted into a mixed calcium/sodium alginate. Results show that the sodium ions in the fibers help increase their gel swelling ratio. Calcium alginate fibers can also be treated with aqueous solutions of ZnCl2, producing mixed calcium/zinc alginate fibers. When put in contact with solutions containing sodium ions, the zinc in the fibers can be released into the solution.
Cotton Fiber Properties and Moisture: Water of Imbibition
Authors: Rousselle Marie-Alice , Thibodeaux Devron P. , French Alfred D.
Published: November 2005

Southern Regional Research Center (SRRC) is participating in a multi-year area-of-growth study of selected cotton cultivars. We report here preliminary moisture data (water of imbibition) on the cottons from the 2001 crop year, and compare them to maturity properties determined by image analysis and to micronaire.
A Nonlinear Dynamic Model for Two-Strand Yarn Spinning
Authors: He Ji-Huan , Yu Yan-Ping , Yu Jian-Yong , Li Wei-Ru , Wang Shan-Yuan , Pan Ning
Published: November 2005

A nonlinear dynamic model is established for two-strand spun or Sirospun yarns. The homotopy perturbation method proposed in our earlier work is used to calculated the approximate oscillating periods in the vertical and horizontal directions. The study reveals that the optimal convergence angle of the two strands in equilibrium is 90°, while when the convergence angle is near 127°, resonance occurs.
Uptake of Copper(II) by Wool
Authors: Sheffield Ann , Doyle Margaret J.
Published: November 2005

The uptake of copper(II) onto wool from aqueous solutions of copper(II) sulfate is investigated as a function of treatment time and temperature, amount of copper applied, and pH. Longer heating times and higher temperatures lead to increased uptake: 1 hour near the boil gives optimal results. Increasing the amount of applied copper increases the total uptake, but the fraction of applied copper taken up decreases with the amount applied. As pH is increased, copper uptake increases linearly with pH up to a pH of approximately 6; above pH 6, solid copper salts are precipitated. The possibility of specific buffer interference with copper uptake is discussed.
Beck Dyeing Conditions Impact the Wear Performance of Nylon 66 Carpets Inserted with Low-Melt Polyamide Yarns
Authors: Balasubramanian K. K. , Miller R. W.
Published: November 2005

Inserting a lower melting polyamide yarn between plies of nylon 66 yarn improves the appearance retention (AR) of carpet subjected to foot trafficking. However, the severe conditions associated with a commercial Beck dyeing process—water temperatures held close to the boil for several hours and unremitting physical rubbing of the heavy, wet surface—affect wear performance. Because Beck dyeing is preferred for contract carpet constructions, i.e., for use in schools, airports, hotels, hospitals, etc., where wear performance is of paramount importance, a low-melt inserted carpet’s ability to retain its improved wear performance following the rigors of dyeing raises important questions. A gas chromatographic method is developed to quantify the amount of insert yarn present in these carpets. Measurements taken from carpets sampled both before and after the Beck dyeing show that the loss of low-melt polyamide with dyeing is minimal. While these inserted carpets exhibit poorer AR performance under the extreme dye conditions of temperatures and dwell times, they outperform controls lacking the insert yarns. The slight performance deterioration likely results from a combination of redistribution of the low-melt material and the continual surface brushing during the dyeing operation.
Perceptions of Fiber and Fabric Uses and the Factors Contributing to Military Clothing Comfort and Satisfaction
Authors: Schutz Howard G. , Cardello Armand V. , Winterhalter Carole
Published: November 2005

Attitudes of military consumers toward commercial and military fibers, fabrics, and military battle dress uniforms (BDU) are assessed using item-by-use appropriateness scaling and conjoint analysis. The item-by use appropriateness ratings uncover strong stereotypes about the tactile and functional characteristics of the fibers/fabrics and their appropriateness for use in specific situations and/or environmental circumstances. Both the fibers and fabrics and their uses and characteristics are reduced to a minimum number of factors using principle components analyses. A multiple regression model shows that the discomfort of the fibers/fabrics can be predicted from a combination of “tactile” and “functional” characteristics. Results of the conjoint analyses reveal that the thermal properties of the hot weather BDU and the “abrasiveness” of the temperate BDU are the most important factors contributing to their (dis)comfort. Although fit is the most important factor contributing to overall consumer satisfaction with the BDU, tactile and appearance factors are equivalently important to such functional factors as protection and durability. The data, methodologies, and approach can be used to better understand consumer attitudes toward both military and commercial fibers, fabrics, and utility uniforms.
A Novel Perfluoroalkyl-Containing Bisulfite Adduct of Polyisocyanate: Synthesis and Finishing of Cotton Fabrics
Authors: Jiang Wan-Chao , Meng Wei-Dong , Qing Feng-Ling
Published: November 2005

A perfluoroalkyl-containing diol (F-diol) is introduced into polyisocyanate, and novel bifunctional perfluoroalkyl-containing bisulfite adduct of polyisocyanate (FBAP) is successfully prepared after blocking with sodium metabisulfite. FBAP is applied to cotton fabrics by a pad-dry-cure process. The treated fabrics show good durable press and water and oil repellent properties: the dry wrinkle recovery angle reaches 210° and the water and oil repellent ratings are 100 and 6, respectively. After 10 washing cycles, the water repellent rating is still 90 and the oil repellent rating is 5.
A Process for Optimizing Sewing Conditions to Minimize Seam Pucker Using the Taguchi Method
Authors: Park Chang Kyu , Ha Joo Young
Published: November 2005

We have developed a process for optimizing sewing conditions to minimize seam pucker using the Taguchi method. The process is applied to two different T/C fabrics with the specified experimental design using an optimum orthogonal array table. The parameters selected for optimization are sewing speed, stitch length, sewing thread tension, and presser foot pressure. The Taguchi process has the following steps: calculate the SN ratios of repeated experimental observations, find the corresponding conditions that influence sewing for a given fabric, determine the optimum values of the sewing conditions, calculate the prediction interval of minimum seam pucker grade with optimum sewing conditions, certify the Taguchi processes that apply, and finally compare the expectation losses before and after improving seam pucker grades. With the Taguchi processes, we can easily determine the optimum sewing conditions for minimizing seam pucker with simple experiments.
Predicting Mechanical Properties and Hand Values from the Parameters of Weave Structures
Authors: Morino Hitomi , Matsudaira Mitsuo , Furutani Minoru
Published: November 2005

In this study, mechanical properties and hand values are predicted from the parameters of weave structures. To promote the design of woven fabrics, we can define the crossing-over firmness factor (CFF) and the floating yarn factor (FYF) as the parameters of the weave structures for predicting mechanical properties and hand values. Both the CFF and FYF are related to some mechanical parameters and primary hand. Multiple regression equations of mechanical parameters and hand values are derived from those parameters of weave structures, and the predicted values almost exactly agree with the measured values from the KES-FB system.
Knowledge creation: absorptive capacity, organizational mechanisms, and knowledge storage/retrieval capabilities
Authors: Chou Shih-Wei
Published: November 2005

Drawing on a knowledge-based perspective of the firm (KBV), this study develops a framework that delineates the interrelationships among 'the roles of individuals as well as organizations,' 'the IT capabilities of knowledge storage/ retrieval,' and 'knowledge creation.' In order to test the feasibility of this framework, we conducted an empirical study. This study employed a survey instrument, which collected data from 1000 respondents from organizations in manufacturing, trade, transportation, service industries, and academic institutions. A total of 271 useable responses were analyzed. The major contributions of this research are to: (a) develop a knowledge management framework based on individual and organizational perspectives; (b) identify the impact of individuals' absorptive capacity, and organizational mechanisms, on knowledge creation; and (c) specify the moderating effect of organizational memory. The implications of the study are provided, and further research directions are proposed.
What are communities of practice? A comparative review of four seminal works
Authors: Cox Andrew
Published: November 2005

This paper is a comparative review of four seminal works on communities of practice. It is argued that the ambiguities of the terms community and practice are a source of the concept's reusability allowing it to be reappropriated for different purposes, academic and practical. However, it is potentially confusing that the works differ so markedly in their conceptualizations of community, learning, power and change, diversity and informality. The three earlier works are underpinned by a common epistemological view, but Lave and Wenger's 1991 short monograph is often read as primarily about the socialization of newcomers into knowledge by a form of apprenticeship, while the focus in Brown and Duguid's article of the same year is, in contrast, on improvising new knowledge in an interstitial group that forms in resistance to management. Wenger's 1998 book treats communities of practice as the informal relations and understandings that develop in mutual engagement on an appropriated joint enterprise, but his focus is the impact on individual identity. The applicability of the concept to the heavily individualized and tightly managed work of the twenty-first century is questionable. The most recent work by Wenger – this time with McDermott and Snyder as coauthors – marks a distinct shift towards a managerialist stance. The proposition that managers should foster informal horizontal groups across organizational boundaries is in fact a fundamental redefinition of the concept. However it does identify a plausible, if limited, knowledge management (KM) tool. This paper discusses different interpretations of the idea of 'co-ordinating' communities of practice as a management ideology of empowerment.
Knowledge building in rural areas
Authors: Cannarella Carmelo , Piccioni Valeria
Published: November 2005

This article proposes an approach designed and adopted to identify and qualify effective positive experiences in the cooperation between rural small and medium enterprises, and research institutions (and the resulting knowledge flows). It outlines a managerial prototype, based on identified processes, which could be cloned and applied in other contexts in order to make knowledge more productive for rural areas. On the bases of the experiences from a case study in Central Italy, an analytical framework linked to three interrelated levels emerges: (a) agents’ nature and characteristics; (b) relations between agents; and (c) dynamics of an agent–based binary system. At present, the first two levels have been implemented to evaluate the dynamics of this partnership, to create general indicators to identify divergence/convergence balances between the agents involved and to create a knowledge system for the management of the conflicting strategies that emerge from their intrinsically different natures.
Regulation of microfinance NGOs
Authors: Jackson Kenneth E. , Islam Tazul
Published: November 2005

This article initially looks at the growing calls for regulation of the microfinance sector and then places Bangladesh, as a case study, within the context of the subsequent debate. It starts with a consideration of the need for appropriate regulation and supervision of the microfinance activity, particularly as it endeavours to ensure the safety of deposits, especially of the poor, as well as securing the other aspect of the double bottom line, the financial sustainability of the organizations. This is followed by a review of possible options for regulation and supervision, and the potential shortcomings of the conventional approaches.This article then reflects on the possibility of placing microfinance regulation and supervision in Bangladesh under the Palli Karma–Sahayak Foundation (PKSF) or Rural Employment–Generation Foundation, an autonomous apex financial institution. Finally, there is a summary of principal conclusions, policy suggestions, and signposts for future research.
Leadership and people's participation in community forestry
Authors: Sinha Himadri , Suar Damodar
Published: November 2005

This study tests (a) whether participation and leadership styles vary in different forms of community forestry, and (b) whether the leaders’ styles, members’ psychosocial closeness with the leader, and leaders’ attributes influence people's participation. In a survey of 397 members from 17 forest protection units in three states of eastern India, participation was found to be significantly higher in indigenous community forest management than in crafted and joint forest management. In indigenous and crafted forest institutions, leaders were predominantly participative, which was not the case in joint forest management.Irrespective of forest institutions, participative and charismatic leaders enhanced participation whereas authoritarian and manipulative leaders dampened it. Members perceived more psycho–social closeness to participative and charismatic leaders, and such leaders possessed more personal virtues than their authoritarian and manipulative counterparts.
Neuropeptide S and Its Receptor: A Newly Deorphanized G Protein–Coupled Receptor System
Authors: Reinscheid Rainer K. , Xu Yan-Ling
Published: November 2005

Neuropeptide S (NPS) is a recently discovered bioactive peptide that has shed new light on the neurobiology of sleep/wakefulness regulation and anxiety-like behavior. NPS can potently promote arousal and suppress all stages of sleep. This effect might be modulated by NPS receptors expressed in thalamic centers that are relays for transmitting arousing stimuli originating from the brainstem to the cortex. The peptide precursor is expressed most prominently in a novel nucleus located directly adjacent to the nora-drenergic locus coeruleus, a brain structure with well-defined functions in arousal, stress, and anxiety. NPS was also found to induce anxiolytic-like behavior in a battery of four different tests of innate responses to stress. This unique pharmacological profile of NPS offers significant potential for developing new drugs for the treatment of sleep and/or anxiety disorders.
Potassium Channels, Memory T Cells, and Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Beeton Christine , Chandy K. George
Published: November 2005

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease of the central nervous system characterized by demyelination and axonal damage that result in disabling neurological deficits. Here the authors explain the rationale for the use of inhibitors of the Kv1.3 K+ channel in immune cells as a therapy for multiple sclerosis and other autoimmune disorders.
The P300: Where in the Brain Is It Produced and What Does It Tell Us?
Authors: Linden David E. J.
Published: November 2005

Intracranial recordings, lesion studies, and the combination of functional imaging with source analysis have produced a solid body of evidence about the generators of the P300 event-related potential. Although it is impossible to square all findings obtained across and within methodologies, a consistent pattern of generators has emerged, with target-related responses in the parietal cortex and the cingulate and novelty-related activations mainly in the inferior parietal and prefrontal regions. Stimulus modality-specific contributions come from the inferior temporal and superior parietal cortex for the visual and from the superior temporal cortex for the auditory modality. The P300 continues to be an important signature of cognitive processes such as attention and working memory and of its dysfunction in neurologic and mental disorders. It is increasingly being investigated as a potential genetic marker of mental disorders. Knowledge about the generators of the P300 will be crucial for a better understanding of its cognitive significance and its continuing clinical application.
News Websites as Gated Cybercommunities
Authors: Tremayne Mark
Published: November 2005

This study tested emerging network theory against a sub-sample of the web: stories on USA national news websites. It found that news web stories contain links to external sites less frequently than just a few years ago. As each organisation builds up its own archive of web content, this material appears to be favoured over content that is off-site.
The Communications Act 2003: A New Regulatory Framework in the UK
Authors: Doyle Gillian , Vick Douglas W.
Published: November 2005

After coming to power in 1997, the UK’s New Labour Government considered various policy responses to ‘convergence ‘- a perceived communications revolution blurring the boundaries between previously distinct media sectors. The approach decided upon is embodied in the Communications Act 2003 which has ushered in a sweeping programme of regulatory change in the communications industries and is the most comprehensive legislation of its kind in British history. This article assesses the major provisions of the Act, touching on how it has been implemented so far by Ofcom (Office of Communications), and it analyses the implications of this landmark legislation for the future of UK communications and, especially, broadcasting policy.
What is Central and Eastern Europe?
Authors: Berend Ivan T.
Published: November 2005

The historical trajectory of Central and Eastern Europe differed significantly from that of the West. The region became the periphery of a transforming West during the early modern centuries. The nineteenth and twentieth centuries were characterized by repeated attempts to catch up with the West. Romanticism brought in Western ideas and generated struggles for national independence and modernization. Failures paved the way for desperate revolts in the inter-war years. Left- and right-wing revolutions engulfed the region. Authoritarian, Fascist and Communist regimes looked for short cuts to finish nation-building and industrialization. In the end, all versions of state-run modernization failed, and the region revolted against them. At least its western rim seems to be successfully returning to Europe at the turn of the millennium.
Alternating Modernities
Authors: Arnason Johann P.
Published: November 2005

The relationship between multiple and successive patterns of modernity has emerged as a central issue in current debates. But the problem must be posed in different terms in different settings: there are regions and states where the sequence of patterns can be reconstructed in terms of an internal logic, whereas in other cases, it is conspicuously dependent on historical and geopolitical contexts. This article deals with the history of the Czechoslovak state (1918–92) as an example of the latter kind. The discussion begins with reflections on the background: the path from a national movement to a multi-national state. Socio-political constellations within this state reflect unresolved tensions between liberal and organized modernity, but also between different versions of the latter. The state was destroyed by the briefly ascendant Fascist version of organized modernity and then reconstructed on the basis of the Communist one. The Communist takeover was due to geopolitical circumstances, but facilitated by a strong current of indigenous radicalism; at a later stage, however, this current found expression in the most ambitious attempt to reform the Communist version of organized modernity.
The Polish Transformation
Authors: Domański Henryk
Published: November 2005

This article deals with basic changes in Polish society over past 20 years. On the basis of sociological surveys, the author attempts to answer the following questions: to what extent has systemic change brought about significant changes in social stratification? In which dimensions did it take place? What are the consequences of these changes for individuals and the social system? How does Polish society differ from others? As for social stratification, the only clear and unambiguous tendencies were growing inequality and more marked effects of educational credentials on incomes. Contrary to expectations, barriers to mobility have not become more rigid, nor is there any clear evidence of social origins mattering more for educational achievement. Transformations in social structure have been accompanied by rising discontent with material conditions, the government, and the system as a whole. Interestingly, this wave runs counter to positive evaluations in the private sphere, displayed in relatively high self-esteem and satisfaction with friendships and family life. These optimistic attitudes contrasted with disapproval of the political class, and with the workings of democracy. The degree of legitimization of the political system in Poland appears to be the lowest among 21 European societies. When compared with the capitalist West, this constitutes one of the obstacles to modernization along Western lines.
Post-Communist Modernization, Transition Studies, and Diversity in Europe
Authors: Blokker Paul
Published: November 2005

The majority of studies of post-communism – habitually grouped under the heading of 'transitology' – understand the transition ultimately as a political and cultural convergence of the ex-communist societies with Western Europe. Even those critical approaches that regard the post-communist transition as a relatively unique phenomenon (as in the approaches of path dependency and neo-classical sociology) tend to conflate normative prescriptions with empirical descriptions and to move within an overall framework of what Michael Kennedy has aptly called 'transition culture'. This article argues instead that the transition's nature can only be fully grasped if a case-specific and historical-contextual approach is taken. In theoretical terms, a three-step movement to grasp diversity in Central and Eastern Europe is proposed: (1) the acknowledgement of the plurality of modernizing agency and its creativity; (2) the acknowledgement of multi-interpretability and difference as primary elements of modernity; and (3) a sensitivity to the resulting institutional variety in societal constellations. In substantive terms, it is argued that diversity is a distinctive mark of Europe that is bound to persist in an enlarged Europe, despite the spirit of assimilation in the accession process.
Sickness at high altitude: a literature review
Authors: Brundrett G
Published: November 2005

When some individuals spend just a few hours at low atmospheric pressure above 1,500 m (5,000 ft) - such as when climbing a mountain or flying in a plane at high altitude - they become ill. Altitude sickness studies originally concentrated on life-threatening illnesses which beset determined and athletic climbers at extreme altitudes. In recent years, however, research attention is moving towards milder forms of sickness reported by a significant proportion of the growing number of visitors to mountain and ski resorts at more moderate altitude. Some of this research is also relevant in understanding the problems experienced by passengers in newer planes that fly at a significantly higher equivalent cabin altitude, i.e. 2,440 m (8,000 ft), than earlier designs. Engineering solutions - such as enriched oxygen in enclosed spaces at altitude, or in the case of aircraft, lower cabin altitudes - are possible, but for an economic assessment to be realistic an engineer needs to identify the scale of the problem and to understand the factors determining susceptibility.

This review concentrates on the problems of mountain sickness in the ordinary population at altitudes of around 3,000 m (10,000 ft); this is a problem of growing concern as ski resorts develop, mountain trekking increases in popularity, and as higher altitude cabin pressures are achieved in aircraft.
Tinnitus: an update
Authors: Roy D , Chopra R
Published: November 2005

Tinnitus is the perceived sensation of sound in the absence of acoustic stimulation. It is the commonest otological disorder referred to either the general practitioner or ear-nose-throat surgeon.

This short review examines prevalence, aetiology, associated clinical symptoms, investigations and management.

Despite current usage of a vast number of treatment modalities there remains no specific cure for the condition. However, there is currently great emphasis on tinnitus retraining therapy (TRT) in its management. The applications and results of TRT have, indeed, been encouraging - and are also briefly discussed here.
Hemihypertrophy
Authors: Leung A K C , Fong J H S , Leong A G
Published: November 2005

Hemihypertrophy refers to asymmetry of the body to a greater degree than can be attributed to normal variation. Most causes can be diagnosed from history and physical examination. Hemihypertrophy is cosmetically unsightly and the psychological impact can be quite prolonged.

This article reviews the causes and differential diagnosis of hemihyper-trophy and offers an approach to the management of this condition. Children with isolated hemihypertrophy are at increased risk for neoplasms. Periodic abdominal ultrasound examination and physical examination during infancy and childhood are recommended for early tumour detection.
Caring for a relative with chronic fatigue syndrome: difficulties, cognition and acceptance over time
Authors: Ax S , Gregg V H , Jones D
Published: November 2005

The present study explored the difficulties experienced by carers of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) sufferers, their cognitions, and their efforts to accept the illness. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 17 carers to study these issues, retrospectively, over three stages: before the diagnosis of CFS, shortly after the diagnosis, and at present. Surprisingly, the results suggested that carers, several of them absent from home during the day, felt that their lives were only minimally constrained by the illness. Nevertheless, all carers reported specific coping efforts to manage both the illness and their own distress, and indicated that they learned to accept the illness over time. However, acceptance appeared to be a form of resignation rather than a positive appreciation of the illness. In light of the uncertainties surrounding the origin of CFS and carers’ apparent confusion, the results obtained in the present study are significant in that they increase our understanding of CFS carers’ quality of life, their efforts to cope with the illness, and the physical and emotional help they may provide to the sufferer. Such information can be usefully employed in the increasing development of counselling interventions and instrumental support networks that involve both sufferers and their carers.
The global emergency of tuberculosis: what is the cause?
Authors: Grange J M , Zumla A
Published: November 2005

The treatment of tuberculosis is cheap and highly effective, yet worldwide the disease remains a serious cause of illness and death; so serious as to have been declared a ‘global emergency’ in 1993. It is principally a disease of poverty, with 95% of cases and 98% of deaths occurring in developing countries.

The incidence of tuberculosis is increasing worldwide, partly due to poverty and inequity and partly to the HIV/AIDS pandemic, which greatly increases the risk of infection proceeding to overt disease. Around 30% of AIDS-related deaths are due to tuberculosis.

The emergence of multidrug resistant tuberculosis (MDRTB) is an increasing threat to tuberculosis control. Although treatable with alternative drugs, the cost is enormous and, accordingly, not undertaken in many poor nations. While the overall global incidence of MDRTB is low, it occurs in certain ‘hotspots’ including Russian prisons.

Due to adverse socio-economic factors, London has not escaped the general rise in incidence and, without the introduction of active control strategies, there could be a serious epidemic as occurred in New York City ten years ago which required an enormous financial outlay for its control.

In view of the global emergency of tuberculosis, the WHO ‘Stop TB’ campaign has called for the universal adoption of its directly observed therapy, short course (DOTS) strategy. Also, through the Massive Effort Against Diseases of Poverty, several international agencies are urging the establishment of effective control programmes worldwide. London should take the lead and set an example.
Tuberculosis information on the web
Authors: Abu-Amero K
Published: November 2005

After years of decline, tuberculosis has reemerged as a serious public health problem worldwide. Factors contributing to this resurgence include the HIV epidemic and immigration of people from countries with a high incidence of tuberculosis. In 1993, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared it to be a ‘global emergency’ and according to a recent WHO report, there were 7.96 million new cases in 1996, with two million deaths.

Comprehensive up-to-date information is available via the Internet, which has emerged as an essential tool for information on a wide variety of subjects including tuberculosis. However, looking for the right information on tuberculosis can be laborious, especially with the enormous number of tuberculosis websites established. It is always helpful to know which ones to visit to avoid wasting valuable time.

This article provides readers with a list of websites that provide information on tuberculosis. All sites quoted here have been tested and proven to be valuable and informative for both the public and scientific community alike.