bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mean Platelet Volume in Pemphigus Vulgaris
Authors: Kridin Khalaf , Shihade Wesal , Zelber-Sagi Shira
Published: July 2017

Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) is an autoimmune blistering disease of the skin and mucous membranes. The mean platelet volume (MPV) is an index of platelet activation reported to be influenced by inflammation. We investigated the MPV in patients with PV relative to controls. This case–control study included 160 patients with PV and 640 age- and sex-matched controls. The MPV, platelet count, and other inflammatory parameters were measured for all study participants. A significantly decreased MPV was observed in patients with PV compared with controls, 9.1 (1.5) fL versus 10.3 (1.4) fL, P < .001. A significant negative association between MPV and PV was demonstrated in multivariate analysis (odds ratio, 0.59; 95% confidence interval, 0.51-0.68, P < .0001). Patients having PV with laryngeal involvement had significantly lower MPVs than those without involvement of the larynx, 8.81 (1.5) fL versus 9.32 (1.4) fL, P = .032. Disease activity (before and after treatment) does not affect the MPV. Patients with PV showed decreased MPV values compared to healthy controls. The MPV may be a feasible diagnostic marker in patients with PV.
Statin Therapy and Risk of Diabetes Mellitus in Aging Patients With Heterozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia or Familial Combined Hyperlipidemia: A 10-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Skoumas Ioannis , Ioakeimidis Nikolaos , Vlachopoulos Charalambos , Chrysohoou Christina , Michalakeas Christos , Georgakopoulos Christos , Katsi Vicky , Panagiotakos Demosthenes , Tousoulis Dimitrios
Published: July 2017

We assessed the incidence of diabetes mellitus (DM) in patients with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH) and familial combined hyperlipidemia (FCH) treated with statins. Participants (n = 280) of mean age 59 ± 5 years were included (90 patients with HeFH, 112 patients with FCH, and 78 aged-matched participants). The median statin intensity treatment product (statin intensity in arbitrary equivalence units × duration of statin therapy in months) was 119 and 85 for patients with HeFH and FCH, respectively, at 10-year follow-up. The incidence of DM was significantly lower in patients with HeFH compared to the patients with FCH (2% vs 20%) and the reference group (2% vs 17%) during the 10-year follow-up period (all Ps < .001). Impaired fasting blood glucose at entry ( P < .001) and central obesity ( P = .02) were the only independent predictors of DM. The incidence of DM was significantly lower in older patients with HeFH compared to either aged-matched patients with FCH or individuals not receiving statins. Statins did not increase risk of DM in aging patients with FCH. These findings have implications, given the importance of high-intensity statin therapy for prevention of cardiovascular events, especially in patients with HeFH, a population with high cardiovascular risk.
Self-harm hospitalised morbidity and mortality risk using a matched population-based cohort design
Authors: Mitchell Rebecca J , Cameron Cate M
Published: July 2017

Objective:

Prior and repeated self-harm hospitalisations are common risk factors for suicide. However, few studies have accounted for pre-existing comorbidities and prior hospital use when quantifying the burden of self-harm. The aim is to quantify hospitalisation in the 12 months preceding and re-hospitalisation and mortality risk in the 12 months post a self-harm hospitalisation.

Method:

A population-based matched cohort using linked hospital and mortality data for individuals ⩾18 years from four Australian jurisdictions. A non-injured comparison cohort was matched on age, gender and residential postcode. Twelve-month pre- and post-index self-harm hospitalisations and mortality were examined.

Results:

The 11,597 individuals who were hospitalised following self-harm in 2009 experienced 21% higher health service use in the 12 months pre and post the index admission and a higher mortality rate (2.9% vs 0.3%) than their matched counterparts. There were 133 (39.0%) deaths within 2 weeks of hospital discharge and 342 deaths within 12 months of the index hospitalisation in the self-harm cohort. Adjusted rate ratios for hospital readmission were highest for females (2.86; 95% confidence interval: [2.33, 2.52]) and individuals aged 55–64 years (3.96; 95% confidence interval: [2.79, 5.64]).

Conclusion:

Improved quantification of the burden of self-harm-related hospital use can inform resource allocation for intervention and after-care services for individuals at risk of repeated self-harm. Better assessment of at-risk self-harm behaviour, appropriate referrals and improved post-discharge care, focusing on care continuity, are needed.
At risk for radicalization and jihadism? A population-based study of Norwegian adolescents
Authors: Pedersen Willy , Vestel Viggo , Bakken Anders
Published: July 2017

Little is known about attitudes among ordinary adolescents in favour of the use of political violence and radicalization. We draw on a survey from a population sample of adolescents ( n = 8627) in the Norwegian capital, Oslo. We first compared adolescents with Muslim, Christian and no religious affiliation with regard to attitudes in favour of the use of violence for political purposes and support of those who go to Syria to take part in active combat. Muslim youth reported higher levels of support for the use of violence to obtain societal change than did other adolescents. The same pattern was revealed with regard to support for the fighters in Syria. After control for other variables, Muslim affiliation had no impact on attitudes in favour of politically motivated violence, though it remained significant for support for the fighters in Syria. However, here as well we found associations with poor school grades, conduct problems and exposure to violence, possibly indicating an emerging adolescent ‘outsider’ position. Political activity on social media also played a role. Such attitudes rarely develop into politically motivated violence and jihadism. However, for a small minority, they may represent the first step in that direction.
Moral Education for the Gifted: a Confluent Model
Authors: Vare Jonatha W.
Published: July 2017

Gifted children have unique emotional needs and cognitive developmental potential which can be met only be an adequate program of moral education; however, none of the present forms of moral education is sufficient to meet those needs. Only a program of moral education which is based on the unique cognitive and affective needs of gifted children will respect the autonomy of the child. Thus a confluent model for moral development is described in which cognitive and affective goals and appropriate instructional strategies are defined. Both cognitive and affective goals may be achieved through choice of any number of instructional strategies in any particular subject area. Appropriate strategies focus on discussion and problem solving through use of reasoning in an atmosphere of openness, tolerance, and concern for others.
Conceptualising a new approach to adolescent health literacy
Authors: Peralta Louisa , Rowling Louise , Samdal Oddrun , Hipkins Rose , Dudley Dean
Published: July 2017

Background:

Health literacy research for adolescents and young people has been growing in importance. However, conceptualisation has been largely limited to concepts of adult health literacy in healthcare and disease prevention settings. The challenge for the future lies in developing a coherent concept that combines adolescent development, educational theory, whole school action and change, and critical health literacy. Such an approach needs to be both enabling and positive for students currently, and should also help facilitate health literacy outcomes in the future.

Objective:

This paper describes the process used to develop a conceptualisation of adolescent health literacy and to summarise what is known about health literacy in schools.

Method:

Guided by an international expert panel, we identified, reviewed, summarised and re-constructed key literature and resources to identify key components and principles necessary for adolescent health literacy in schools.

Results:

The proposed conceptualisation of adolescent health literacy initially had three areas of focus: adolescent development, whole school change and health literacy. The concepts of adolescent learning, health-literate organisation and critical health literacy emerged from the review as key components for health literacy in school settings. Pedagogy was found to be the crucial mechanism for health literacy development in the school setting and the resultant concept of adolescent health literacy.

Conclusion:

The focus on health-literate organisations, critical health literacy and pedagogy in the school setting distinguishes this conceptualisation from other health literacy work.
Orientation and Position Dependant Thermal Conductivity
Authors: Mathis Nancy , Chandler Christina
Published: July 2017

Thermal conductivity is a critical thermophysical property to be monitored while manufacturing foam insulation for industries from construction to appliances. Formulators rely on lab based testing to measure thermal conductivity of new materials that are under development to assure that the product meets the needs of the customer. Quality control engineers rely on lab based testing to periodically measure thermal conductivity of the product to assure that the goals of the formulators are being realized on a consistent basis.

Lab based testing has been dominated by traditional guarded hot plate techniques which require access to both sides of a flat, prepared sample of fixed dimension. The entire volume of the sample is measured during testing, providing the average thermal conductivity of the sample as the result.

This study has measured the variation in thermal conductivity across the profile of polyurethane. Further investigation focused on detecting thermal conductivity anisotropy in foam as related to foam rise direction. This research was facilitated by the use of a new technique that has been developed for thermal conductivity testing which requires access to only one side of the sample. With this interfacial transient technique, testing time dictates the penetration depth of the heat wave, and therefore the amount of material tested. This technique does not require set sample configurations, which eliminates the need to mock up samples for evaluation.
Inert Gases as Alternative Blowing Agents for Extruded Low-Density Polystyrene Foam
Authors: Jacob C. , Dey S. K.
Published: July 2017

A 1.25" segmented single screw extruder was custom designed and used for foaming polystyrene with physical blowing agent such as carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and argon. The type of gas, the pressure, nucleating agents, and the extrusion conditions were found to be of significant importance affecting density cell size, cell size distribution, and foam stability. The lowest density achieved was3 lbs/cu.ft. Melt pressure oscillation was found to be a problem, which could be addressed by the addition of talc or endothermic nucleating agents.
Polymeric Foam by Photoinitiated Polymerization of Trimethylolpropanetriacrylate: Initiator and Solvent Effects
Authors: Apen Paul G.
Published: July 2017

A comprehensive examination of the preparation of polymeric foam via the photopolymerization of trimethylolpropanetriacrylate, TMPTA, was undertaken. Foam properties such as uniformity, shrinkage, density, microstructure, physical integrity, and machinability were measured as a function of initiator, solvent, and processing conditions.

The photopolymerization rate of TMPTA in poly(oxyethylene[4]) lauryl ether, or Brij 30, and glycol ethers is enhanced using active photoinitiators such as benzoinethylether and 2,2-dimethoxy-2-phenylacetophenone. The properties of the TMPTA foams were identical for all photoinitiators examined.

The properties of the TMPTA foams were dramatically changed when a co-solvent was employed. The co-solvents were triethyleneglycol dimethyl ether and triethyleneglycol monomethyl ether. The use of co-solvents leads to greater shrinkage and a higher than expected foam density. Unlike foams prepared in Brij 30, foams prepared using glycol ethers possess good physical properties and can be machined into cylinders with a smooth surface finish.
L-2100, a New Silicone Surfactant for Use in High Resilience Slabstock Foam
Authors: Grabowski W. , Desnier M. C.
Published: July 2017

A new high resilience (HR) slabstock foam stabilizer, Union Carbide Silicone Surfactant L-2100 (formerly Y-10704), has been discovered through the systematic study of surface tension and foam effects as the structure of this general class of siloxanes was varied. The investigations described in this paper show the influence of polarity of the pendant group grafted on the siloxane as a way to modify the properties of the silicone. The precise structure associated with L-2100 was defined through extensive evaluations in a variety of foam formulations including those containing SAN polymer polyols and melamine.

The reduction of the surface tension of a complex polyurethane reaction mixture is a prerequisite to creating foam. Determining the proper siloxane structural parameters to satisfy these demanding requirements can be arrived at by carefully balancing the siloxane size with the character of the moiety attached to the silicon atom. The measurements of surface tension reduction in polyol solutions containing different foam stabilizer, coupled with thermodynamic calculations, have given us a better understanding of the role of high resilience foam.

These fundamental findings led to the development of the Silicone Surfactant L-2100 already commercially available. The innovative molecular parameters designed into this novel, new HR surfactant provide for optimum surface activity to produce a stable, yet open foam, with outstanding processing characteristics. This new HR silicone surfactant has been successfully scaled-up, and its performance has exhaustively been evaluated in a variety of formulations on pilot scale equipment and in industrial foam facilities.

Foams produced with L-2100 give excellent fingernailing and a regular nondeformed shape on the line. Additionally, increasing the concentration of L-2100 does not result in tighter foam. The performance and processing characteristics are a clear step forward in stabilizer technology and have been achieved through an alignment of the molecular parameters on the silicone backbone.
Novel Methods of Modification in Isocyanurate Foams
Authors: Gou J. , Sasaki K. , Ashida K.
Published: July 2017

This paper describes novel methods of producing modified isocyanurate foams having low combustibility, high thermal stability and low smoke density.

The research philosophy in this study is based on a hypothesis that by increasing the thermal stability of polymeric linkages, less flammable gases are generated which result in foams having lower combustibility, higher flame resistance, and higher thermal stability.

The thermally-stable linkages employed in this study are amide-, imide-, and imide/carbodiimide linkages.

Amide-modified isocyanurate foams were prepared by either a one step process or a two step process, using dimer acid, adipic acid or di-ketimine as modifier. The foams prepared by the two step process using adipic acid exhibited high closed cell content and therefore higher thermal insulation and high temperature stability.

Imide-modified isocyanurate foams exhibited high flame-resistance and high closed cell content.
The Use of Pentanes as Blowing Agent in Rigid Polyurethane Foam
Authors: Fleurent Hilde , Thijs Sonja
Published: July 2017

The overall performance of pentane blown rigid polyurethane foams in terms of insulation value and mechanical properties is demonstrated. The low vapor pressure of both normal-pentane and cyclopentane is shown to induce condensation effects. The consequences of condensation in terms of thermal conductivity and dimensional stability are discussed. The effects on the cell gas pressure of the pentane solubility in the polymer matrix are demonstrated and compared with sorption measurements. The solubility is shown not to deteriorate the foam mechanical properties as a function of time. The ageing characteristics of normal -and cyclopentane blown laminates in terms of the thermal insulation value are discussed. Mixtures of normal- and cyclopentane are suggested to be advantageous in view of their ageing profile.
Flammability Characteristics of CO2 Blown Rigid Polyurethane Spray Foam
Authors: Moore S. E. , Bhattacharjee D. , Dressel D.
Published: July 2017

In view of the ozone depletion potential of HCFC-141b and other HCFCs, processing challenges with gaseous HFC-134a, and flammability potential with pentanes as blowing agents, significant efforts have been deployed in the development of environmentally friendly, all carbon dioxide blown rigid polyurethane spray foams. These foams are primarily used for the insulation of roofs, storage tanks, vessels, walls and piping. The Mannich base initiated Polyol A, developed by The Dow Chemical Company [1], with viscosity of ∼2000 cps at 77°F and OH# of ∼312 was manufactured using patented technology. This OH# is significantly lower than that of the dominating spray foam polyols (OH# 470). The low viscosity and higher equivalent weight of this polyol are designed to alleviate the processing difficulties of typical carbon dioxide blown spray applied systems.

Some of the important requirements in spray systems are the flammability characteristics. Most carbon dioxide blown foams, however, suffer from high heat release, smoke and weight loss in small scale burn tests like the Ohio State University (OSU; ASTM E-906) test when compared to the corresponding results with HCFC-141b as the primary blowing agent. A series of formulations containing Polyol A, aromatic polyester polyols and commercially available fire retardants were evaluated at different isocyanate indices. Flammability properties were determined using a variety of small scale test methods including cone calorimeter and ASTM E-906. In an attempt to understand factors contributing to burn properties, several analytical techniques, such as FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometry), TGA (Thermo-Gravimetric Analysis) and DMS (Dynamic Mechanical Spectroscopy) were utilized. Analysis of the FTIR spectra leads to an estimate of conversion of isocyanate end groups and trimerization reactions where applicable. TGA reflects the chemical stability of the polymer network to thermal decomposition and DMS reflects the physical stability of the polymer network. A correlation of these data with the weight loss data after burning has been investigated. A combination of these techniques leads to a systematic approach for the development of spray polyurethane foams with improved flammability characteristics.
Reduced Density Carbon Dioxide Blown Foam Based on a Novel Polyol Technology
Authors: Nichols J. B. , Bhattacharjee D. , Moreno O. , Mirasol S. , Tabor R.
Published: July 2017

In view of increasing pressure to use environmentally acceptable, nonflammable blowing agents with zero ozone depletion potential in the manufacture of rigid polyurethane foams, there is greater interest in 100% carbon dioxide blown technology. When trichlorofluoromethane (CFC-11) or 1,1-dichloro-1-fluoroethane (HCFC-141b) is replaced by carbon dioxide as the cell gas, the resulting foam, in general, suffers from higher thermal conductivity (k-factor), poorer adhesion and worse flowability leading to higher density. The water level in the formulation can be increased to improve flowability of these systems, but foam with poorer dimensional stability is obtained due to rapid diffusion of carbon dioxide out of the foam. In order to maintain adequate dimensional stability, similar to what is achieved in CFC-11/HCFC-141b blown systems, the water level has to be reduced. This leads to unacceptably higher foam density. In addition, the higher k-factor of the foam is primarily due to higher gas k-factor of carbon dioxide compared to those of CFC-11 and HCFC-141b. This is partially offset by lower radiative contribution arising from finer cell structure of carbon dioxide blown foams. Certain applications, however, are less sensitive to the energy requirement, and a foam with higher k-factor may be acceptable.

This paper deals with a design of experiments to yield a foam with good processability and excellent dimensional stability in a variety of conditions, while maintaining the in-place density usually obtained with CFC-11/HCFC-141b blown systems. The key to the success was the development of a novel polyol that led to dimensionally stable foams at higher levels of water. The commercial viability of this technology has been demonstrated by producing actual parts without any equipment modifications.
An Improved Technique for the Determination of Isocyanurate and Isocyanate Conversion by Photoacoustic FTIR
Authors: Bhattacharjee D. , Engineer R.
Published: July 2017

Conventional rigid polyisocyanurate (PUIR) foams blown with HCFC-141b often suffer from poorer compressive strengths, dimensional stability and inferior flammability properties when compared to foams blown with CFC-11. It is often hypothesized that these properties can be improved by increasing the isocyanurate (or "trimer") conversion by means of catalyst optimization and increased isocyanate index. A convenient, yet reliable method for the determination of the amount of isocyanurate in a PUIR foam has been missing in this industry for a long time, though several attempts have been documented in the literature. The purpose of this paper is to introduce an improved isocyanurate conversion test by photoacoustic Fourier Transform Infra Red (FTIR) technique. This involves creating a baseline through three anchor points at approximately 1637 cm−1, 1469 cm−1, and 1349 cm−1. The absorbance of the isocyanurate peak at 1410 cm−1 is taken relative to the absorbance of the phenyl peak at 1602 cm−1. The phenyl peak is preferred to the urethane peak because the absorbance of phenyl groups in a foam is inherent to the amounts of polyols and isocyanates used in the foaming reaction, whereas the urethane linkages in the foam are created by a reaction between the two and are, therefore, variable depending on the extent of the reaction in the presence of catalysts and possibly water. In addition, the relative ratios of the absorbances of isocyanate end groups (at 2277 cm−1) and carbodiimide groups (at 2136 cm−1) to the phenyl groups can also be determined by generating a baseline through the anchor points at approximately 2470 cm−1, 2207 cm−1 and 2000 cm−1. This allows one to gain a better assessment of the overall kinetics of the isocyanate reactions and creates opportunities to improve the isocyanurate conversion through formulation optimization. The method is not limited to polyisocyanurate foams, as isocyanate conversion is an important parameter to follow in polyurethane foams as well, especially in all carbon dioxide blown foams. The method was found to be quite reproducible, and further statistical analysis to ensure the validity of this technique is under way.
Techniques to Assess the Various Factors Affecting the Long Term Dimensional Stability of Rigid Polyurethane Foam
Authors: Singh S. N. , Lynch J. J. , Daems D.
Published: July 2017

CFC blowing agents have been eliminated from virtually all polyurethane foam applications and replaced, in many cases, with the more environmentally acceptable HCFCs, or in some cases in Europe, with hydrocarbons. At the same time, the search continues for zero ozone depletion potential blowing agents and some possible candidates are HFCs, hydrocarbons and water. The physical properties such as boiling point and solubility characteristics of the new blowing agents vary widely and formulations have had to be adapted to new types of blowing agents in order to achieve acceptable processing and resultant foam properties.

One of the big limitations to adapting formulations has been the ability of the present test methods to predict performance of foam blown with the new blowing agents. Predictive tests for the dimensional stability of fully CFC-11 blown systems have proven their validity over the years. But such is not the case with foams blown with the new blowing agents. ICI developed a new, more stringent, test to predict the long term dimensional stability performance, and the results of some preliminary evaluations were presented at the last SPI meeting in Boston. This new test focuses on accelerating the normal diffusion processes that typically take place over a period of months or years.

This latest paper is directed towards gaining an additional understanding of the matrix plasticization effects of various types of blowing agents and describes a method for quantifying such an effect. It also shows how these new evaluation techniques serve as useful development tools for foam based on third generation blowing agents. Both construction and appliance systems based on PIR and PUR technology are elucidated. Some results from the long term aging of boards and refrigerator/freezer cabinets and comparison of these results with the prediction of the new dimensional stability test method are also discussed.

The results discussed here show that industry may be guided in selecting appropriate alternative blowing agents and in the development of current/future formulations and processing by more accurately comparing the long-term dimensional properties using the reliable and accurate test procedures developed in this fundamental study.
Skin Development in Free Rise, Flexible Polyurethane Foam
Authors: Yasunaga K. , Zhang X. D. , Macosko C. W.
Published: July 2017

The behavior of top skin layer in reacting flexible polyurethane foam was studied to interpret its role in determining the properties of the foam. Temperature profile near the top skin rises much slower than that at the center of the foam bun. Parallel plate rheometer and infrared spectroscopy showed that the material near the top skin is still liquid after the onset of cell opening at the center of the bun, due to the slow temperature increase. The cells near the top skin are supposed to still be closed at visual blow-off.

The visual blow-off time changed with different silicone surfactant structure used in the formulations, although the onset of cell opening time did not change. This indicates that surfactants are playing some role to prevent CO2 gas from coming out by breaking the top skin and cell layers under it. Cell opening was shown to be continuously occurring between onset of cell opening and visual blow-off time. Delaying the visual blow-off was efficient to get higher foam bun height and could affect air flow rate. However, the visual blow-off time alone cannot account for the difference in the air flow of final foam products.
Comparative Evaluations of Alternative Blowing Agent Systems in Appliance Foams and Cabinets
Authors: Brown L. J. , Morgan R. E. , Haworth G. J. , Beerwart A.
Published: July 2017

The Manufacture of HCFC-141b (used as an insulation foam blowing agent) will be discontinued in the United States on December 31, 2002. In addition, the United States appliance industry must meet a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) requirement for energy redaction of up to 30% (compared to 1993 standards) by July of 2001.

Feasibility testing of alternate blowing agent foams was previously reported by the AHAM Industry/Government CFC Replacement Consortium and indicated a 6-10% increase in energy with cylopentane blown foams. The evaluations of HFC-245fa and HFC-236ea blown foams in non-optimized systems also had higher k-factors than HCFC-141b blown foams.

The Dow Chemical Company and Maytag-Galesburg Refrigerator Products have conducted additional blowing agent evaluations on a newly designed top freezer cabinet. HFC-245fa, HFC-236ea and cyclopentane have been evaluated and compared to HCFC-141b in rigid appliance systems utilized today. Several new polyols, surfactants and catalysts were utilized in this formulation design experiment. The performance of each of the alternative blowing agents was evaluated in laboratory samples and in refrigerator/freezer cabinet foaming trials.
The Mechanical Properties of Conventional and Auxetic Foams. Part II: Shear
Authors: Chan N. , Evans K. E.
Published: July 2017

Auxetic materials with a negative Poisson's ratio have the fascinating property of expanding laterally when stretched longitudinally. This property is fundamentally important to the properties of a material, and significant changes in the value of the ratio have important effects on mechanical performance. This paper examines the variation in static and dynamic shear moduli on a range of auxetic foams and also examines variation in loss tangent. It is shown that both the static, elastic shear modulus and the dynamic loss tangent may increase with a negative Poisson's ratio. Such changes are attributed to modifications of the cell structure of the foam, not to changes in the material of the foam, during conversion to an auxetic foam. Such changes may have important applications in cushioning, packaging, sound absorption and protection.
Properties of Closed-Cell Butyl and Nitrile Materials
Authors: Galezewski Alexander , Wilusz Eugene
Published: July 2017

Closed-cell materials were prepared from two types of thermosetting elastomers, carboxyacrylonitrile-butadiene copolymer nitrilee) and isobutylene-isoprene co-polymer (butyl), containing carbon black reinforcing filler. A chemical blowing agent, pp'-oxybis(benzene-sulfonyl hydrazide), which decomposes rapidly between 1530 and 160°C with a release of nitrogen, and a low-pressure compression molding process were used in the fabrication. The resulting cellular materials had densities between 0.66 and 0.84 g/cc. The curing characteristics of the formulations were studied with an oscillating disk rheometer. Viscoelastic properties were gathered with a dynamic mechanical analyzer over a -90° to 80°C temperature interval. Other properties, such as an abrasion resistance and compression set, were also determined. The data indicate that the cellular nitrile materials should excel in applications where wear-resistance is needed and butyl materials in applications where good flexibility and energy dissipation at low temperatures are desired.
Motives for Prosecution
Authors: Tevlin Aidan
Published: July 2017

It has never been the rule in this country—I hope it never will be—that suspected criminal offences must automatically be the subject of prosecution. Indeed, the very first regulations under which the Director of Public Prosecutions worked provided that he should intervene to prosecute, amongst other cases: ‘wherever it appears that the offence or the circumstances of its commission is or are of such a character that a prosecution in respect thereof is required in the public interest’. That is still the dominant consideration.
Association of NOD2 Mutations with Aggressive Periodontitis
Authors: Sudo T. , Okada Y. , Ozaki K. , Urayama K. , Kanai M. , Kobayashi H. , Gokyu M. , Izumi Y. , Tanaka T.
Published: July 2017

Aggressive periodontitis (AgP) is characterized by rapid alveolar bone destruction and tooth loss early in life, and its etiology remains unclear. To explore the genetic risk factors of AgP, we performed genome-wide single-nucleotide polymorphism genotyping for identity-by-descent mapping and identified 32 distinct candidate loci, followed by whole exome sequencing with 2 pedigrees of AgP consisting of 3 cases and 1 control in 1 family and 2 sibling cases in the other. After variant filtering procedures and validation by targeted Sanger sequencing, we identified 2 missense mutations at 16q12 in NOD2 (p.Ala110Thr and p.Arg311Trp), which encodes nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain protein 2. We further examined 94 genetically unrelated AgP patients by targeted sequencing of NOD2 and found that 2 patients among them also carried the p.Arg311Trp variant. Furthermore, we found 3 additional missense mutations in this gene (p.His370Tyr, p.Arg459Cys, and p.Ala868Thr). These mutations either had not been previously observed or are extremely rare (frequency <0.001) in Asian populations. NOD2 plays a crucial role in innate immunity as an intracellular receptor initiating nuclear factor κB–dependent and mitogen-activated protein kinase–dependent gene transcription. These results demonstrated NOD2 as a novel gene involved in AgP.
Facilitating Interpersonal Functioning with Peers in Learning-Disabled Children
Authors: La Greca Annette M. , Mesibov Gary B.
Published: July 2017

A social skills training program involving four learning disabled boys, ages 12 to 16, with poor peer relationships is described and discussed. The program focused on training joining skills (initiating social interactions) and communication-conversation skills through modeling, coaching, and behavioral rehearsal strategies. The data suggested that both joining and conversation skills were problems for the boys, and that participation in the social skills training program resulted in improvement in interpersonal skills and in the frequency of interactions with peers. The need for further research on this and related programs is highlighted.
Effects of Varying Unit Size on Spelling Achievement in Learning Disabled Children
Authors: Dale Bryant N. , Drabin Ingrid R. , Gettinger Maribeth
Published: July 2017

The investigation looked at the degree to which varying the number of spelling words taught relates to the percentage of words spelled correctly by learning disabled children. Sixty-four LD children were divided into three treatment groups that differed only in the number of phonemically irregular spelling words taught (three, four, or five per day) across three days of instruction. Results show that, even with efficient instructional procedures, overloading, higher failure rate, and percentage of transposition spelling errors and greater variance in performance may occur when the number of words presented each day exceeds three. The findings support the notion that LD children, in particular, may be subject to overloading if presented with more material than they may be able to handle.
The Effects of Group Psychotherapy on the Adjustment of Four 12-Year-Old Boys with Learning and Behavior Problems
Authors: DuPlessis Jean M. , Lochner L.M.
Published: July 2017

The emotional development and socialization of children with learning disabilities are often neglected in the process of remediating specific scholastic problems. This article relates the experience and outcome of group therapy during which some psychodrama techniques were used with four, 12-year-old boys with general adjustment and peer-group problems. Attention is drawn to the usefulness of starting with a concrete activity and to the value of having two therapists of different sexes. According to the CPQ results, feedback from parents and teachers and personal observation, the boys showed improvement in their patterns of communication, attitudes, and general adjustment.
Residual Attentional Deficits in Adolescents
Authors: Clampit M.K.
Published: July 2017

This article offers criteria for identifying one group of attentionally disabled adolescents whose disability is often overlooked or misinterpreted, but who are likely to benefit from stimulant medication. The "Freedom from Distractibility" quotient is discussed, and a case history is presented as an example of a residual attentional deficit.
On Comparing Learning Disabled and Regular Classroom Children
Authors: Weener Paul
Published: July 2017

Forty-seven studies, which compared normal and learning disabled children, were reviewed with a focus on the variability of performance within groups and the degree of overlap between LD and normal groups. The amount of variability of performance within LD and normal groups was similar and was approximately 75% of the variability of a randomly selected national sample. The average difference between the means of normal and LD groups was less than .75 SD, or about one sixth the range of performance which existed within either group. Assuming normal distributions, this means that more than 23% of the LD children scored above the mean of the normal group in most of the studies reviewed. On the basis of this data, it was asserted that categorical claims about the etiology or education of LD children were unwarranted and that combining LD and regular classroom groups has a relatively small effect on the range of ability in the classroom.
Characteristics of a Pseudomonas aeruginosa induced porcine sepsis model for multi-organ metabolic flux measurements
Authors: Ten Have Gabriella A M , Deutz Renske C I , Engelen Mariëlle P K J , Wolfe Robert R , Deutz Nicolaas E P
Published: July 2017

Survival of sepsis is related to loss of muscle mass. Therefore, it is imperative to further define and understand the basic alterations in nutrient metabolism in order to improve targeted sepsis nutritional therapies. We developed and evaluated a controlled hyperdynamic severe sepsis pig model that can be used for in vivo multi-organ metabolic studies in a conscious state. In this catheterized pig model, bacteremia was induced intravenously with 109 CFU/h Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) in 13 pigs for 18 h. Both the PA and control (nine) animals received fluid resuscitation and were continuously monitored. We examined in detail their hemodynamics, blood gases, clinical chemistry, inflammation, histopathology and organ plasma flows. The systemic inflammatory response (SIRS) diagnostic scoring system was used to determine the clinical septic state. Within 6 h from the start of PA infusion, a septic state developed, as was reflected by hyperthermia and cardiovascular changes. After 12 h of PA infusion, severe sepsis was diagnosed. Disturbed cardiovascular function, decreased portal drained viscera plasma flow (control: 37.6 ± 4.6 mL/kg body weight (bw)/min; PA 20.3 ± 2.6 mL/kg bw/min, P < 0.001), as well as moderate villous injury in the small intestines were observed. No lung, kidney or liver failure was observed. Acute phase C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels did not change in the PA group. However, significant metabolic changes such as enhanced protein breakdown, hypocalcemia and hypocholesterolemia were found. In conclusion, PA-induced bacteremia in a catheterized pig is a clinically relevant model for acute severe sepsis and enables the study of complex multi-organ metabolisms.
A Systematic Examination of Gibberish in a Multilingual Schizophrenic Patient
Authors: Robertson J. P. S. , Shamsie S. J.
Published: July 2017

An investigation of gibberish in an Indian hebephrenic is reported. The patient's case-history is recounted and the several languages that he spoke are noted. The problems presented by his gibberish are listed. The procedure for recording and transcribing it is presented. Accounts are given of the method of classifying his verbal production and of investigations into the factors evoking the gibberish, its phonetic structure, and its sources. The desirability of further investigations along the same lines is urged.
Three Experiments in the Perception of Geminate Consonants in Arabic
Authors: Obrecht Dean H.
Published: July 2017

Synthetic stimuli were employed to investigate duration as a cue factor in the discrimination of single versus geminate consonants in Arabic. Contrasts in three phonetic classes were explored, stops, nasals, and spirants. Clear identification boundaries were found, though not uniformly clear, giving an indication of the degree of exclusivity of duration as the determining cue factor. If this interpretation is correct, then it is surprising that duration appears to be a more powerful cue in the case of nasals than stops. A physiological basis for this development is suggested. The evidence indicates that the structural status of gemination influences decisively the sharpness of discrimination.
Structural Apperception in the Absence of Syntactic Constraints
Authors: Tikofsky Ronald S. , Reiff Donald G.
Published: July 2017

Twenty-eight subjects were presented with computer generated grammatically deviant strings and asked to carry out two tasks on each of two experimental days. Task 1 was a forced-choice experiment in which 50 pairs of strings were presented aurally to each subject, and he had to select that member of the pair which he felt was the best approximation to a good English sentence. In Task 2, subjects were required to read and rank each string on a scale running from 1 (completely unacceptable) to 5 (completely acceptable). A different order of stimulus presentation was employed on each experimental day; 14 subjects were assigned to one order on the first day and received the other order on the second day.

Results show that subjects tend to prefer the same statement over orders and that rank and preference are highly correlated. There are considerable differences in preference among the 50 pairs of stimulus items. Analysis of the data suggests that this task yields information relevant to the linguistic and in particular the syntactic competence of subjects when applied to grammatically deviant strings. Subjects appear to be trying to cope with the statements by comparing them to acceptable syntactic and/or semantic patterns.
The Trouble with "Articulatory" Pauses
Authors: Hieke Adolf E. , Kowal Sabine , O'Connell Daniel C.
Published: July 2017

The historical provenance of a minimum cut-off point (of about 0.25 sec) for pauses in temporal analyses of speech production is associated with Goldman-Eisler's usage. Her rationale was the predominance of articulatory pauses at lengths shorter than 0.25 sec. Both phonotactic facts and empirical analysis of several corpora of readings disconfirm this predominance with respect to pauses 0.13-0.25 sec in length. The vast majority of these pauses are found to be psychological; they are determined by syntax, punctuation, rhetorical and expressive emphasis, poetic format, and stylistic pecularities.
The Relative Roles of Syntax and Prosody in the Perception of the /š/ -/č/ Distinction
Authors: Price P.J. , Levitt A.G.
Published: July 2017

A silent interval that cues the /š/-/č/ distinction in many contexts is less likely to do so when it coincides with certain boundaries. In natural speech these boundaries are generally marked by both prosody and syntax. We independently varied syntax and prosody to assess their contributions to the phonetic interpretation of silences occurring at these boundaries. We used a set of four sentences, four durations of silence, and two prosodic patterns (Experiment I). We constructed sentences using three techniques that differed in the amount of prosodic control and in naturalness: synthesis by rule, concatenation of naturally produced syllables, and cross-splicing of naturally produced utterances. Silence duration had a strong effect on the perception of the /š/-/č/ contrast in all conditions. For the Synthetic Condition, we also found a strong effect of the prosodic pattern. We found no evidence of any purely syntactic effect. In Experiment II, the two syllables surrounding the silence were excised from the sentences of Experiment I and presented to listeners for labeling. Prosody had a significant effect in the Synthetic Condition and in the Natural Condition. The results indicate that the local prosodic pattern (one syllable with a pitch fall and a greater length) can be sufficient to influence listeners' perception of the /š/-/č/ contrast. There is also evidence that the prosodic information may be subject to context effects.
A Study of Cohesive Patterns and Dynamic Choices Utilized by Two Schizophrenic Patients in Dialog, Pre- and Post-Medication
Authors: Abu-Akel Ahmad
Published: July 2017

The present study evaluated the communicative deficits in the linguistic performance of two Arabic speaking schizophrenics having a first episode of disorganized schizophrenia. Two facets of the conversational performance of each patient prior to and following antipsychotic medication treatment were considered and compared to normals' performance of these two measures. These were the dynamic development of the interviews and selected cohesive devices.

A description of the patients' aberrant conversational behavior and deficits in terms of systemic grammar is offered for profiling schizophrenics' discourse and measuring the effects of stimulant treatment. The neuroleptic clozapine led to both positive and negative changes in the socially appropriate use of language in the schizophrenics' conversations.
Volitional Trust, Autonomy Satisfaction, and Engagement at Work
Authors: Heyns Marita , Rothmann Sebastiaan
Published: July 2017

This study tested a structural model that identifies the nature of relationships between trust, autonomy satisfaction, and personal engagement at work. A cross-sectional survey design with a convenience sample ( n = 252) was used. The Behavioral Trust Inventory, Work-Related Basic Need Satisfaction Scale, and Work Engagement Scale were administered. While reliance-based trust did not have a significant influence on engagement, disclosure-based trust in a focal leader was found to predict satisfaction of autonomy needs and employee engagement. Mediation analyses revealed that satisfaction of the need for autonomy facilitates the influence of trust on work outcomes. More specifically, disclosure (a dimension of trust) impacted engagement via autonomy satisfaction. Overall, the model explained 44% of total variance in engagement, to which the variables proportionately contributed as follows: autonomy satisfaction = 79.58%, disclosure = 18.22%, and reliance = 2.20%. The findings provide possible directions for how leaders can leverage trust to facilitate autonomy support and higher levels of engagement.
Studies in Cross-Linking Reactions of Cellulose
Authors: Chipalkatti V. B. , Desai R. M. , Sattur N. B. , Varghese J. , Patel J. G.
Published: July 2017

With a view to studying the effect of bulky substituents in the cross-linking molecule on the physico-chemical properties of reacted cellulose, 1:3-dichloro-2-propanol and its acetyl, propionyl, and butyryl esters have been reacted with cellulose. Two cotton fabrics have been used: (i) a casement cloth of open structure and (ii) a poplin fabric of closed construction.

The presence of cross-links and the retention of the ester groups in the cross-links have been established by the determination of the insolubility of the treated cellulose in cuprammonium hydroxide and the estimation of the ester contents. The effect of the substituent ester groups on the reactivity of these compounds and the resulting changes in the physico-chemical properties of the treated fabrics, such as dry and wet crease recovery, tensile strength, tear strength, stiffness as bending length, moisture regain, etc., have been assessed. It has been found that the cross-linking reactivity of these compounds decreases with the increase in molecular weight. Besides this, the ester group exerts a distinct influence on the various properties mentioned above. It is observed that the improved wet crease recovery, increased moisture regain, and stiffness of the fabrics treated with these compounds are inversely related to the increasing molecular weight of the substituent ester group. Similarly the losses in tensile and tear strength and the decrease in dry crease recovery become less as the molecular weight of the substituent ester group increases. Further work with heavier substituent groups is in progress.
An Uncatalyzed, Vapor-Phase Cross-Linking Reaction of Cotton Cellulose with Formaldehyde
Authors: Joarder G. K. , Brannan M. A. F. , Rowland S. P. , Guthrie J. D.
Published: July 2017

An uncatalyzed reaction of formaldehyde with cotton cellulose at 125°C is described, and the fabric properties of the product are characterized. It is shown that this formaldehyde-modified fabric had a more homogeneous distribution of cross linkages in the fiber structure than the product from a boric acid-catalyzed reaction conducted under similar conditions. The more homogeneous distribution of cross linkages is particularly favorable for the development of high wrinkle recovery angles.