bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The ‘potlatch of destruction’: Gifting against the state
Authors: Martin Keir
Published: June 2012

Appropriations of anthropological theory by political radicals are often treated with suspicion by academic practitioners of the discipline, who are particularly wary about ethnographic descriptions of ‘pre-capitalist’ societies as the radical Other of western capitalist modernity. On first examination, the Situationist International, a revolutionary group active in France in the 1960s would seem to fit this problematic romantic appropriation of anthropological theory. However, on closer examination, the Situationists’ use of anthropological theory, and in particular their development of Mauss’s theory of the gift as a revolutionary weapon to be directed against ‘commodity enslavement’, was, despite its rhetorical militancy, more nuanced than many contemporary developments of Maussian theory within the academy. The Situationists’ revolutionary engagement with Mauss led them to develop potentially important aspects of Maussian theory decades before they were taken seriously in anthropological theory. First, in contrast with many anthropological uses of the gift–commodity distinction, that have seen entire cultural orders as being structurally determined by a particular kind of exchange, the Situationists stressed the importance of the co-evality of different types of exchange and the potential for objects to move between different types of exchange well before this became a significant theoretical problem in anthropology. Second, the Situationists’ revolutionary engagement led them to develop an analysis of the relationship between different types of exchange and processes of ‘cultural humiliation’; an issue that has been brought to the forefront of anthropological theorizing of colonialism and social change in recent years by Marshall Sahlins and others.
Towards anarchist futures? Creative presentism, vanguard practices and anthropological hopes
Authors: Ringel Felix
Published: June 2012

Recently, new political but also conceptual hopes have been invested in the study of anarchy as a non-prescriptive, native category, proposing a dialogue between actually existing anarchism and the discipline of anthropology. My article contributes to this anthropology of anarchists with an analysis of a specific form of temporal reasoning exhibited in the social, ethical and lifestyle practices of an anarchist group in the East German city of Hoyerswerda. By developing the term ‘creative presentism’, I present these contemporary anarchist practices as an arena of knowledge production in which the postmodern, neoliberal evacuation of the near future – so convincingly detected by Jane Guyer – is significantly challenged by an urge for a different relationship to the future. Anarchist practices thus ethnographically add to the growing anthropology of the future and additionally offer new grounds for a self-reflexive investigation of the role hope and the future play in our own knowledge practices.
Paths to freedom: Political prospecting in the ethnographic record
Authors: Jonsson Hjorleifur
Published: June 2012

The recent discovery that Southeast Asia’s highland peoples had not been traditional tribals but were instead clever freedom-seekers brings up various questions regarding the politics of ethnographic prospecting. The ostensible anarchism of standing outside the state dismisses the possibility of political negotiation. It offers instead liberalist moral geography that celebrates individualism and the cutting of social connections, as it disregards anyone – at home or far afield – who may have to bargain for basic rights and services. I offer historical, ethnographic, and political counters to the case. Aristotle and feminist history deny categorical certainties in favor of practical concerns with equality and justice. Analytical mastery and academic point-scoring distract from ethical concerns: subversive levity may offer the only non-authoritarian counter-move.
When looking for anarchy, look to the state: Fantasies of regulation in forcing disorder within the Australian Indigenous estate
Authors: Lea Tess
Published: June 2012

This article questions the foundational binary ‘anarchy–bureaucracy’ and the multiple articulations at play in the state’s refraction of anarchic qualities onto Indigenous Australians. Launching from the Northern Territory Emergency Response of June 2007, in which the Australian government assumed direct control of 73 Aboriginal communities in the north of Australia, it asks why bureaucracy is considered the antonym of anarchy and not its synonym. In mobilizing accounts of anarchic Aboriginal depravity to authorize an ongoing bureau-professional presence in Indigenous worlds, links to other matters of interest, such as the state’s dependence on mining revenues, let alone any account of the affective dimension of policy life, were removed from view. Reconsideration of the anarchy–state binary offers a lens to explore the emotional compulsions that are suppressed in the work of upholding the myth of a rational state and how this suppression further authorizes ongoing (anarchic) interventions into Indigenous worlds.
Anthropology and anarchy: Romance, horror or science fiction?
Authors: High Holly
Published: June 2012

This article introduces the special issue by considering some of the relations between anthropology and anarchy, real and potential. Anarchy, I suggest, is a word already burdened with strong (and often divergent) emotional overtones: it is invested with both romance and horror. These overtones point to related ideas about human nature as either social and peaceable or antagonistic and competitive. But are these parables about human nature just science fiction, political claims dressed up in the garb of neutral observations of actually existing humanity? Time and again, the questions raised by anarchy point to anthropology for their resolution, particularly to the ethnographic record and the conclusions that might be drawn from its analysis. Yet the ethnographic record yields no easy resolution to these questions, in part, I argue, because of this prior overburdening which becomes particularly acute when the ethnographic subjects are already politically marginalized. In this introduction, I take a different tack, attempting to approach anarchy as banal and everyday, as one kind of social relation among others, and as thus amenable itself to ethnographic observation not only ‘out there’ and ‘back then’ but here and now.
Beyond the state: Anthropology and ‘actually-existing-anarchism’
Authors: Robinson Andrew , Tormey Simon
Published: June 2012

In this article we seek to explore the different ways in which anarchists use anthropological materials for the purpose of advancing the anarchist cause. We note the extensive deployment of such materials within anarchist texts and identify four generative functions that they play within them. They include, respectively, the generation of critique, the generation of techniques for sustaining stateless relations, the generation of reflexivity and the generation of solidarity. The delineation of these functions demonstrates that anarchism is misunderstood as principally or exclusively a transformative ideology like socialism or Marxism. Rather, anarchists set great store by pointing to the existence of anarchist practices, anarchist groupings and particularly anarchist societies and communities that might embrace a different, cooperative social logic. Anthropology is particularly useful in this respect as anthropologists have provided a reservoir of evidence confirming not just the possibility of anarchism, but its existence albeit in the often precarious and marginal folds of the global system.
Writing power: An anarchist anthropologist in the looking glass of critical theory
Authors: Ssorin-Chaikov Nikolai
Published: June 2012

This is a case study in the anthropology of anthropology. Its ethnographic focus is on a contemporary critical anthropologist, rather than on the figure of a colonial or nationalist scholar who is explored from a critical perspective of contemporary scholarship. I chart an episode in political biography and scholarship of Maxim Kuchinski, a Russian anarchist and ethnographer, and contextualise his views in a shifting landscape of critical theory. The broader change I am concerned with here is that from ‘the social’ to ‘power’ as a key explanatory category. The goal of this article is to explore how the category of power enables a particular ethnographic vision. If much of current anthropology explores Foucauldian micro-physics of power, what are the macro-physics of these micro-physics? What is the cosmology of power in the anthropology of power?
From Central to Marginal?
Authors: Imoh Afua Twum-Danso
Published: June 2012

Historically, child care, in much of Africa, was a communal responsibility especially through the practice of kinship fosterage. However, as a result of recent socioeconomic changes, there is some evidence to suggest that a shift is taking place in community perceptions about the continuing benefit of kinship fosterage for children in particular. Instead, the roles of parents are being foregrounded in the socialization process. Despite this, there is evidence to suggest that large numbers of parents are retreating from their responsibilities. In this way, traditional safety nets that existed for children are being chipped away, leading many to look after themselves or explore alternative sources of support and care. Therefore, this article aims to explore the extent to which current perceptions of kinship fosterage are changing in Ghana.
The Impact of Assimilation on the Family Structure of Jews in Amsterdam, 1880–1940
Authors: Tammes Peter , van Poppel Frans
Published: June 2012

Since the process of assimilation of Jews coincided with a fertility transition, this study examines the relation between changes in the household structure of families of Jewish origin and the process of assimilation. Data were gathered from the Amsterdam registry for 717 Jewish descendants born in Amsterdam between 1883 and 1922. Our research shows a decrease in average number of siblings at birth among successive birth cohorts. Moreover, especially those persons born outside the Jewish district had a significantly smaller number of siblings at birth. This result might indicate that the fertility transition among Jews started with families who had left the Jewish district. This study also shows that subjects who had a higher number of siblings produced more children themselves, whereas those who married a gentile had fewer children.
In-Hospital Mortality and Unintentional Falls Among Older Adults in the United States
Authors: Moudouni Darcy K. McMaughan , Phillips Charles D.
Published: June 2012

Purpose of the Study:

To estimate the odds of death associated with documented unintentional falls and acute care hospitalization among older adults in the United States.

Design and Method:

Data were abstracted from the 2005 Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) and odds of death were modeled using logistic regression.

Results:

The age 65 and older fall rate per 1,000 discharges was 53.0 while the mortality rate for those who fell was 33.2. Older-old (odds ration [ OR] = 2.93; confidence interval [CI] = [2.50, 3.43]), men ( OR = 1.64, CI = [1.54, 1.75]), and non-White ( OR = 1.09; CI = [1.01, 1.19]) had higher odds of death compared to younger-old, women, and Whites. Additional comorbidity ( OR = 3.41, CI = [3.05, 3.82]), dehydration ( OR = 1.14; CI = [1.05, 1.25]) and intracranial fractures ( OR = 4.46; CI = [4.02, 4.95]) resulted in greater odds of death.

Implications:

Among older adults who experienced a fall and hospitalization, odds of mortality appear influenced by factors beyond injury severity related to falling. Additional research is necessary to delineate the mechanisms behind these phenomena to inform the public about falls-prevention programs.
Characterization of industrial waste from a natural gas distribution company and management strategies: a case study of the East Azerbaijan Gas Company (Iran)
Authors: Taghipour Hassan , Aslhashemi Ahmad , Assadi Mohammad , Khodaei Firoz , Mardangahi Baharak , Mosaferi Mohammad , Roshani Babak
Published: June 2012

Although a fundamental prerequisite for the successful implementation of any waste management plan is the availability of sufficient and accurate data, there are few available studies regarding the characterization and management of gas distribution company waste (GDCW). This study aimed to characterize the industrial waste generated by the East Azerbaijan Gas Distribution Company (EAGDC) and to present environmental management strategies. The EAGDC serves 57 cities and 821 villages with a total population of more than 2.5 million as well as numerous industrial units. The methodology of this study was based on a checklist of data collected from each zone of the company, site visits (observation), and quantity and quality analysis according to the formal data available from different zones. The results indicate that more than 35 different kinds of industrial solid waste are generated in different industrial installations. The most important types of generated waste include empty barrels (including mercaptans, diesel fuel, deionized waters and oil), faulty gas meters and regulators, a variety of industrial oils, sleeves, filter elements and faulty pipes, valves and fittings. The results indicated that, currently, GDCW is generally handled and disposed of with domestic waste, deposited in companies’ installation yards and stores or, sometimes, recycled through non-scientific approaches that can create health risks to the public and the environment, even though most of the GDCW was determined to be recyclable or reusable materials. This study concludes that gas distribution companies must pay more attention to source reduction, recycling and reusing of waste to preserve natural resources, landfill space and the environment
Experimental study on fire performance of double-skin glass facades
Authors: Ni Zhaopeng , Lu Shichang , Peng Lei
Published: June 2012

This article presents an experimental study to investigate the fire performance of double-skin facades made with double glazing. First, preliminary tests were carried out to study the breakage of double glazing using a window assembly exposed to fires located in a small burn room. The glazing was 6-mm-thick toughened glass. The results show that at the time when the glass panes broke, the temperatures on the exposed surface of the first layer reached about 600°C–800°C. Second, a full-scale facility was built to study double-skin glass facades exposed to room fires as well as fire spread in the cavity. The internal skin was double glazing using 6-mm-thick glass, and the external skin was double glazing using 12-mm-thick glass with an intervening gel layer. Three fire scenarios with different heat release rates were tested. The temperatures on the outer glass of the internal skin and the inner glass of the external skin on the upper floor were lower than 300°C, which was not high enough to break the upper glass. For the fire scenario with a maximum heat release rate of 2.0 MW, the inner glass of the external skin broke on the first floor opposite to the fire source. The intervening gel layer ignited, and it caused failure of the external skin. The smoke could be exhausted directly to the atmosphere through the broken area on the external skin, and this helped to release the heat trapped in the cavity.
Experimental study on the effect of the igniter position on piloted ignition of polymethylmethacrylate
Authors: Wu Wei , Zhou Xiaodong , Yang Lizhong , He Chuan , Peng Fei , Ji Jie , Zhong Changhong
Published: June 2012

In this study, experiments are carried out to assess the influence of igniter location on the ignition characteristics of horizontally oriented and vertically oriented polymethylmethacrylate. Some new and significant conclusions are drawn from the study, including the linear relation between ignition time and the height of igniter and the U-shape curve of mass flux at ignition when the specimen is horizontally oriented. On the other hand, compared with the horizontally oriented condition, the mass flux at ignition of the vertically oriented specimen is larger. As the pilot igniter is moved perpendicularly with respect to the vertically oriented polymethylmethacrylate, its position, together with heat flux and solid boundary, influence the ignition time. The position of shortest ignition time is experimentally observed and as the igniter is moved horizontally, ignition time increases with increasing distance between the igniter and the surface of the vertically oriented specimen. The distance for nonignition also increases with increasing heat flux.
Enteroatmospheric Fistula
Authors: Majercik Sarah , Kinikini Merin , White Thomas
Published: June 2012

Enteroatmospheric fistula (EAF), a special subset of enterocutaneous fistula (ECF), is defined as a communication between the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and the atmosphere. It is one of the most devastating complications of “damage control” laparotomy (DCL) and results in significant morbidity and mortality. The published incidence of EAF ranges from 5%−19% of patients who have undergone DCL and survived long enough to develop complications. Their etiology is complex and ranges from persistent abdominal infection, anastomotic leakage, adhesions of the bowel to itself or fascia, and repeated bowel manipulation during return trips to the operating room or dressing changes. Prevention is clearly the best treatment strategy but may be difficult to achieve. Once an EAF occurs, immediate management consists of treatment of sepsis if present; nutrition, fluid, and electrolyte support in the form of parenteral nutrition (PN); and wound/effluent control and protection of surrounding tissues and exposed bowel. It should be noted that EAF almost never close spontaneously, and definitive repair usually requires major surgical intervention and abdominal wall reconstruction 6 to 12 months after the original insult. Enteral feeding should be attempted once the anatomy of the EAF is defined and reliable enteral access is obtained. Most patients can tolerate some amount of enteral and even oral feeding and do not need to be maintained on PN alone. Professional judgment, experience, and teamwork are key to successfully managing the patient with EAF.
Hypomagnesemia in Adolescents With Eating Disorders Hospitalized for Medical Instability
Authors: Raj Kristin S. , Keane‐Miller Casey , Golden Neville H.
Published: June 2012

Background: Hypomagnesemia in patients with eating disorders is poorly characterized, particularly among adolescents. Methods: To determine the prevalence of hypomagnesemia (Mg ≤1.7 mg/dL) and clinical characteristics of adolescents hospitalized with a DSM‐IV‐diagnosed eating disorder who developed hypomagnesemia, a retrospective chart review was conducted on all adolescents aged 10–21 years with an eating disorder were hospitalized at a tertiary care children's hospital from 2007 to 2010. Patients were refed orally with standard nutrition and high‐energy liquid supplements. Serum magnesium and phosphorus were obtained on admission, every 24–48 hours for the first week, and thereafter as clinically indicated. Clinical characteristics of patients with hypomagnesemia were compared with those of individuals with normal magnesium levels and those with hypophosphatemia. Results: Eighty‐six of 541 eligible participants (15.9%) developed hypomagnesemia. Forty (47%) with hypomagnesemia admitted to purging in the year before admission, with 88% purging during the prior month. Compared with those with normal serum magnesium levels, patients with hypomagnesemia were older (P = .0001), ill longer (P = .001), more likely to be purging (P = .04), and more likely to have an alkaline urine (P = .01). They did not differ in eating disorder diagnosis, BMI, or other electrolyte disturbances. Hypomagnesemia developed 4.9 ± 5.5 days after refeeding was initiated, significantly later than the onset of hypophosphatemia, 0.95 ± 2.6 days (P < .001). Conclusions: Hypomagnesemia is prevalent in adolescents hospitalized for an eating disorder and is associated with purging and alkaline urine. Hypomagnesemia develops later in the course of refeeding than hypophosphatemia. Magnesium levels should continue to be monitored after the more immediate risk of hypophosphatemia has passed, especially in those with alkaline urine.
Biomaterial scaffolds in cartilage–subchondral bone defects influencing the repair of autologous articular cartilage transplants
Authors: Fan Wei , Wu Chengtie , Miao Xigeng , Liu Gang , Saifzadeh Siamak , Sugiyama Sadahiro , Afara Isaac , Crawford Ross , Xiao Yin
Published: June 2012

The repair of articular cartilage typically involves the repair of cartilage–subchondral bone tissue defects. Although various bioactive materials have been used to repair bone defects, how these bioactive materials in subchondral bone defects influence the repair of autologous cartilage transplant remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of different subchondral biomaterial scaffolds on the repair of autologous cartilage transplant in a sheep model. Cylindrical cartilage–subchondral bone defects were created in the right femoral knee joint of each sheep. The subchondral bone defects were implanted with hydroxyapatite–β-tricalcium phosphate (HA–TCP), poly lactic-glycolic acid (PLGA)-HA–TCP dual-layered composite scaffolds (PLGA/HA–TCP scaffolds), or autologous bone chips. The autologous cartilage layer was placed on top of the subchondral materials. After 3 months, the effect of different subchondral scaffolds on the repair of autologous cartilage transplant was systematically studied by investigating the mechanical strength, structural integration, and histological responses. The results showed that the transplanted cartilage layer supported by HA–TCP scaffolds had better structural integration and higher mechanical strength than that supported by PLGA/HA–TCP scaffolds. Furthermore, HA–TCP-supported cartilage showed higher expression of acid mucosubstances and glycol-amino-glycan contents than that supported by PLGA/HA–TCP scaffolds. Our results suggested that the physicochemical properties, including the inherent mechanical strength and material chemistry of the scaffolds, play important roles in influencing the repair of autologous cartilage transplants. The study may provide useful information for the design and selection of proper subchondral biomaterials to support the repair of both subchondral bone and cartilage defects.
Platelet adhesion and human umbilical vein endothelial cell cytocompatibility of biodegradable segmented polyurethanes prepared with 4,4′-methylene bis(cyclohexyl isocyanate), poly(caprolactone) diol and butanediol or dithioerythritol as chain extenders
Authors: Chan-Chan LH , Vargas-Coronado RF , Cervantes-Uc JM , Cauich-Rodríguez JV , Rath R , Phelps EA , García AJ , del Barrio J San Román , Parra J , Merhi Y , Tabrizian M
Published: June 2012

Biodegradable segmented polyurethanes were prepared with poly(caprolactone) diol as a soft segment, 4,4′-methylene bis(cyclohexyl isocyanate) (HMDI) and either butanediol or dithioerythritol as chain extenders. Platelet adhesion was similar in all segmented polyurethanes studied and not different from Tecoflex® although an early stage of activation was observed on biodegradable segmented polyurethane prepared with dithioerythritol. Relative viability was higher than 80% on human umbilical vein endothelial cells in contact with biodegradable segmented polyurethane extracts after 1, 2 and 7 days. Furthermore, both biodegradable segmented polyurethane materials supported human umbilical vein endothelial cell adhesion, spreading, and viability similar to Tecoflex® medical-grade polyurethane. These biodegradable segmented polyurethanes represent promising materials for cardiovascular applications.
An Investigation of Chinese Textile Firms’ R&D Performance
Authors: Lu Yao , Karpova Elena
Published: June 2012

The purpose of this study was to enhance the understanding of Chinese textile manufacturers' research and development (R&D) performance. Specifically, the study empirically examined (a) current trends of R&D activities in the Chinese textile industry; (b) R&D intensity among Chinese textile firms and determinants of its variation; and (c) R&D effectiveness among Chinese textile firms and factors impacting it. The research results are based on survey data from 768 textile manufacturers located in a Southeastern County with a mature textile and apparel cluster. Logistic regression was employed for data analyses. The results showed that R&D investment levels among Chinese textile firms are relatively low in comparison with advanced textile industries in developed countries. Chinese textile firms with international operations had a higher R&D intensity, or investment level, than those without international operations. Foreign ownership and financial resources were not significant predictors of the firm's R&D intensity. Chinese textile firms that relied on acquiring new machinery/technology and were involved in internal R&D activities were more likely to have higher R&D effectiveness, which translated into positive profit margin. The R&D intensity did not contribute significantly to R&D effectiveness. To offset increasing production cost and sustain its diminishing low-cost comparative advantage, the Chinese textile industry's next step is to focus on R&D. The study offers strategic directions to the industry and policy makers that might be helpful to keep the industry competitive in the global marketplace.
Application of genetic algorithms for optimizing the Johnson–Cook constitutive model parameters when simulating the titanium alloy Ti-6Al-4V machining process
Authors: Chen Guang , Ren Chengzu , Yu Wei , Yang Xiaoyong , Zhang Lifeng
Published: June 2012

Finite element simulation of metal machining requires accurate constitutive models to characterize the material stress–strain response in plastic deformation processes. An optimization methodology using genetic algorithms was developed to determine the Johnson–Cook material model for Ti–6Al–4V alloy. The optimization of the parameters resulted in lower errors between the calculated flow stress and the experimental values obtained through the split Hopkinson pressure bar tests at different temperatures (ranging from 25 °C to 900 °C) and strain rates (2000 and 2500s−1). Optimized Johnson–Cook constitutive parameters were used to calculate the flow stress under various conditions. The calculated results showed excellent agreement with the experimental values, with errors lower than 4%. In addition, Ti–6Al–4V alloy orthogonal cutting experiments were carried out to validate the finite element simulation results. The experimental chip morphology was compared with the simulation results obtained by the optimized Johnson–Cook model (M2) and the original Johnson–Cook model (M1). The simulated results (including chip morphology and cutting force) were affected by the flow stress model. Comparison of the experimental and simulated results revealed that the optimized Johnson–Cook model can provide relatively good prediction results for the titanium alloy machining process, especially for chip morphology prediction.
Skilled Deaf Readers Have an Enhanced Perceptual Span in Reading
Authors: Bélanger Nathalie N. , Slattery Timothy J. , Mayberry Rachel I. , Rayner Keith
Published: June 2012

Recent evidence suggests that, compared with hearing people, deaf people have enhanced visual attention to simple stimuli viewed in the parafovea and periphery. Although a large part of reading involves processing the fixated words in foveal vision, readers also utilize information in parafoveal vision to preprocess upcoming words and decide where to look next. In the study reported here, we investigated whether auditory deprivation affects low-level visual processing during reading by comparing the perceptual span of deaf signers who were skilled and less-skilled readers with the perceptual span of skilled hearing readers. Compared with hearing readers, the two groups of deaf readers had a larger perceptual span than would be expected given their reading ability. These results provide the first evidence that deaf readers’ enhanced attentional allocation to the parafovea is used during complex cognitive tasks, such as reading.
Pregnancy outcome in patients with antiphospholipid syndrome after cerebral ischaemic events: an observational study
Authors: Fischer-Betz R , Specker C , Brinks R , Schneider M
Published: June 2012

Among the most prominent features associated with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) are cerebral ischaemic events (CVE). Pregnancy with APS increases the risk of thrombosis, including CVE. This study was undertaken to assess the risk of obstetric complications and recurrence of CVE during pregnancy in women with APS and previous CVE. We prospectively observed 23 pregnancies in 20 women (median age 31 years) with primary ( n = 8) or secondary APS ( n = 12). Eight patients had transient ischaemic attacks (TIA) and 12 had stroke before pregnancy. All patients received aspirin 100 mg daily in combination with low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) during their pregnancies. The live birth rate was 91.3% ( n = 21). Obstetrical complications consisted mainly of preeclampsia ( n = 8, 34.8%) and preterm delivery ( n = 9, 42.9%). The risk for preeclampsia increased in patients who were positive for multiple antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) (odds ratio (OR) 3.06 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.01–9.32)) per positive aPL test (i.e anticardiolipin antibody, anti-ß2-glycoprotein I antibody, lupus anticoagulant) ( p 0.049). Three patients experienced recurrent CVE in the context of pregnancy (one during pregnancy, two in the postpartum period). We found an increased, but not significant, risk of a new episode of cerebral ischaemia in patients with pregnancies complicated by preeclampsia (two out of the eight preeclampsia ( p 0.15). Despite treatment, there is a significant risk for pregnancy complications in APS patients with previous CVE. Especially in the context of preeclampsia, anticoagulation should be given rigorously to prevent recurrence of CVE.
A size-dependent model for functionally graded micro-plates for mechanical analyses
Authors: Asghari Mohsen , Taati Ehsan
Published: June 2012

In this paper, a size-dependent formulation is presented for mechanical analyses of inhomogeneous micro-plates based on the modified couple stress theory. The plate properties can arbitrarily vary through the thickness. The governing differential equations of motion are derived for functionally graded (FG) plates with arbitrary shapes utilizing a variational approach. Moreover, the boundary conditions are provided at smooth parts of the plate periphery and also at the sharp corners of the periphery. Utilizing the derived formulation, the free-vibration behavior as well as the static response of a rectangular FG micro-plate is investigated.
Tip tracking control of a micro-cantilever Timoshenko beam via piezoelectric actuator
Authors: Shirazi Masoud Jahromi , Salarieh Hassan , Alasty Aria , Shabani Rasool
Published: June 2012

In this paper, the tip tracking control problem of a Timoshenko micro-cantilever beam is investigated. The beam is actuated by a piezoelectric layer laminated on one side of the beam. Dynamic equations of the beam and piezoelectric layer are found using the Hamilton principle. By employing the Galerkin projection method, state space representation of the system is derived. Then, a cascade control loop is used for tracking control of the beam’s tip. The cascade control structure consists of an inner loop stabilizer and an outer loop proportional-integral-derivative controller. The stabilizer has a linear feedback form whose states are obtained through a linear observer which is based on the beam tip displacement measurement. Stability analysis of the inner loop stabilizer is performed to study the effects of higher un-controlled modes on performance of the controlled system. Simulation results show the effectiveness of the proposed control method.
System identification method by using inverse solution of equations of motion in frequency domain
Authors: Ghafory-Ashtiany Mohsen , Ghasemi M
Published: June 2012

In this paper a direct system identification method is presented for identification of general linear system physical parameters (structural mass, damping and stiffness matrices) using direct inverse solution of the equations of motion in the frequency domain. When the input and output (responses) measured data are noise free, the proposed method can identify physical parameters exactly. When the input and outputs are mixed with measurement noise, an optimization process has been added to the method in order to improve the accuracy of the identified physical parameters of the system. The validity and efficiency of the proposed method is tested on a multistory-non-proportional-damping-structure subjected to sweep harmonic forces at the first story. It is shown that the proposed method can estimate the system parameters with a high level of accuracy. In the case of Gaussian white noise root mean square (RMS) is equal to 3% of the RMS of the structure response, stiffness matrix will be identified with around 2% error. Therefore identified matrices could be used for the damage detection process. The sensitivity of the proposed method to the noise level and damping of structure has also been investigated.
Adaptive Real-Time Imaging Synthesis Telescopes
Authors: Wright Melvyn
Published: June 2012

The digital revolution is transforming astronomy from a data-starved to a data-submerged science. Instruments such as the Atacama Large Millimeter Array (ALMA), the Large Synoptic Survey Telescope (LSST), and the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) will measure their accumulated data in petabytes. The capacity to produce enormous volumes of data must be matched with the computing power to process that data and produce meaningful results. In addition to handling huge data rates, we need adaptive calibration and beamforming to handle atmospheric fluctuations and radio frequency interference, and to provide a user environment which makes the full power of large telescope arrays accessible to both expert and non-expert users. Delayed calibration and analysis limit the science which can be done. To make the best use of both telescope and human resources we must reduce the burden of data reduction. We propose to build a heterogeneous computing platform for real-time processing of radio telescope array data. Our instrumentation comprises a flexible correlator, beam former, and imager that is based on state-of-the-art digital signal processing closely coupled with a computing cluster. This instrumentation will be highly accessible to scientists, engineers, and students for research and development of real-time processing algorithms, and will tap into the pool of talented and innovative students and visiting scientists from engineering, computing, and astronomy backgrounds. The instrument can be deployed on several telescopes to get feedback from dealing with real sky data on working telescopes. Adaptive real-time imaging will transform radio astronomy by providing real-time feedback to observers. Calibration of the data is made in close to real time using a model of the sky brightness distribution. The derived calibration parameters are fed back into the imagers and beam formers. The regions imaged are used to update and improve the a priori model, which becomes the final calibrated image by the time the observations are complete.
A critical evaluation of mechanical models for sandwich beams
Authors: Tonelli Daniele , Bardella Lorenzo , Minelli Michele
Published: June 2012

We focus on the description of the stress state of sandwich beams under bending and shear, a non-trivial task if Saint-Venant's principle does not hold, as it is the case if the skins are somewhat stiffer than the core. Each of the analytical structural models available in literature turns out to be accurate for a limited range of relative stiffness between core and skins, or sandwich heterogeneity. For a simply supported sandwich beam subject to uniform transversal load, we evaluate the stress by means of (a) the classical theory relying on the linear cross-section kinematics, appropriate if Saint-Venant's principle holds, (b) the structural theory based on the zig-zag warping (e.g. Krajcinovic D. Sandwich beam analysis. J Appl Mech, Trans ASME 1972; 39(3): 773–778), and (c) the higher-order theory of Frostig et al. (Frostig Y, Baruch M, Vilnay O, et al. High-order theory for sandwich-beam behavior with transversely flexible core. J Eng Mech, Trans ASCE 1992; 118(5): 1026–1043), the latter usually appropriate when the core is much softer than the skins. The results are compared, for several combinations of material and geometrical parameters, with those of finite element simulations in which the sandwich is modelled as a plane stress continuum. This comparison allows us to provide some graphs which can help in selecting the model appropriate for each sandwich heterogeneity. This is accomplished in terms of non-dimensional material and geometrical parameters the sandwich heterogeneity depends on. We identify and discuss two levels of heterogeneity at which one should switch analytical model: one level is related to the validity of Saint-Venant's principle, while the other level is concerned with the definition of antiplane sandwich.
Analysis of sandwich plates by radial basis functions collocation, according to Murakami's Zig-Zag theory
Authors: Ferreira António Joaquim Mendes , Roque Carla Maria da Cunha , Carrera Erasmo , Cinefra Maria , Polit Olivier
Published: June 2012

In this article, the static analysis of sandwich plates is performed by radial basis functions collocation, according to the Murakami's Zig-Zag function theory. The Murakami's Zig-Zag function theory accounts for through-the-thickness deformation, by considering a Zig-Zag evolution of the transverse displacement with the thickness coordinate. The equations of motion and the boundary conditions are obtained by the Carrera's unified formulation, and further interpolated by collocation with radial basis functions.
Effects of time and stress state on fracture of closed-cell polyvinyl chloride foam
Authors: Poapongsakorn Piyamon , Kanchanomai Chaosuan
Published: June 2012

The effects of time and stress state on fracture behaviors and mechanisms of polyvinyl chloride foam have been evaluated by varying displacement rates (0.1 to 1000 mm/min) and specimen thicknesses (5 to 37.5 mm). For thin specimens, the crack tips were under plane-stress condition at all displacement rates. The excessive deformation under plane-stress condition induced severe damages of cell walls around the crack tip, which resulted in low fracture toughness. For thick specimens at low displacement rate, the crack tips were under plane-stress condition. The marginal inelastic deformation under plane-stress condition was high enough to cause crack-tip blunting. Thus, relatively high fracture toughnesses were observed. For thick specimens at high displacement rate, the crack tips were under plane-strain condition. Brittle fracture of cell walls around crack tip was observed. The fracture toughnesses were lower than those of thick specimens at low displacement rate.
Trigger, pathogen, or bystander: the complex nexus linking Epstein– Barr virus and multiple sclerosis
Authors: Owens Gregory P , Bennett Jeffrey L
Published: June 2012

A causal role for virus infection in the pathophysiology of multiple sclerosis (MS) has been suggested and widely debated since the landmark epidemiologic studies of Kurtzke revealed a strong environmental determinant to MS susceptibility. Despite multiple efforts, no virus has been unequivocally associated with lesion formation in the brain either by direct isolation or by indirect methods of detection. In many infectious diseases of the central nervous system, oligoclonal IgG bands are the product of a robust and specific humoral response against the causative agent; yet in MS, immunoreactivity to a primary target has been elusive. In the absence of any infectious agent fulfilling Koch’s Postulates, new concepts that could plausibly explain the epidemiology of MS have been postulated. The initiation or activation of a nascent autoimmune response in genetically susceptible individuals following exposure to one or more common infectious agents is now a leading hypothesis to explain MS pathogenesis. Epstein–Barr Virus (EBV), a human herpes virus that infects B cells in ~95% of the human population and persists latently in the memory B cell pool throughout life, has received the most attention as a probable candidate; EBV has been implicated as both an environmental trigger and as a direct causative agent of CNS immunopathology. In this review, we will discuss the most salient features of EBV epidemiology, the immunological response to EBV in MS patients and whether EBV infection of the brain is a necessary prerequisite of MS pathology.
Australian Muslims’ orientations to secular society: Empirical exploration of theoretical classifications
Authors: Dryzek John S. , Kanra Bora
Published: June 2012

This article applies Q methodology in order to explore Australian Muslims’ orientations to the secular society in which they live. The analysis is guided by some theoretical claims that are made about the dispositions of Muslims who live in Western societies. While a simple ‘closed’ versus ‘open’ dichotomy has some plausibility, deeper investigation reveals four empirical types: respectively, semi-engaged, coexisting, assertively religious and untroubled participant. These four types vary in the same direction from the theoretical specification that informed the search for the type in question in a way that appears to reduce the tension between the type and the norms of secular society. Generalizations commonly made in both popular and scholarly discourse about the problematic character of Muslim orientations to secular society appear not to apply in Australia.
Tungsten carbide reinforced copper composites for thermal management applications
Authors: Girish BM , Basawaraj  , Satish BM , Jain PK
Published: June 2012

In the present investigation, copper alloy composites with tungsten carbide particle reinforcement have been prepared using the liquid metallurgy technique and the thermal properties have been evaluated. The reinforcing tungsten carbide particles had an average size of 25 µm and the content of the reinforcing particles in the composite was varied from 0 to 8 wt% in steps of 2%. It was observed that the coefficient of thermal expansion reduced significantly with the increase in the reinforcement content and the same was true even in the case of thermal conductivity and diffusivity. When measured against temperature, coefficient of thermal expansion decreased as the temperature was increased from 100 °C to 600 °C, while the thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity of the composites increased with temperature.
The effects of annealing treatment on the morphology and microwave absorption properties of α-MnO2
Authors: Duan Yuping , Liu Zhuo , Jing Hui , Yin Kun , Liu Shunhua
Published: June 2012

Chemically synthesized α-MnO2 powder was annealed at different temperatures with (NH4)2S2O8 as the oxidant and MnSO4 as the manganese source. The obtained samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and vector network analysis. Results indicated that the structures and morphologies of the products did not change remarkably, mainly consisting of α-MnO2 with a sea urchin-like shape, when the annealing temperature was below 500 °C. However, it was observed that the powder changed from α-MnO2 to Mn2O3 at 500 °C and 600 °C. The scanning electron microscopy images showed that the morphologies of the resulted Mn2O3 powder were microspheres in various sizes. Microwave absorption properties of the as-synthesized samples were also discussed, which showed that the dielectric loss tangent, magnetic loss tangent and reflection loss could be improved significantly by increasing the annealing temperature appropriately (<500 °C).
Partnering to Translate Evidence-Based Programs to Community Settings
Authors: Miller Alison L. , Krusky Allison M. , Franzen Susan , Cochran Shirley , Zimmerman Marc A.
Published: June 2012

Implementing evidence-based programming in diverse community settings is an essential translational research step to make effective programs widely accepted and accessible and thereby improve public health. This process is challenging and complex, yet there are few examples to guide the efforts. The authors present their experience as an example of using a university–community partnership approach to aid in translating an evidence-based program (EBP) into a small community setting as a resource for researchers and community partners wishing to implement evidence-based programming in community settings. The authors review the steps of systematic planning and client needs assessment to decide on an EBP: adapting the EBP to appeal to the community while maintaining program fidelity, building staff and organizational capacity, arranging for implementation and family engagement, and carrying out program evaluation. The study focuses on research-to-practice links and highlights each partner’s role and activities in facilitating successful translation of an EBP to this community setting. The lessons learned and recommendations are also presented. Using partnerships to prepare community-based organizations to implement EBPs is a vital mechanism for bridging the discovery–delivery gap and moving toward real-world applications of research discoveries.
Harlem and the 1967 “New City” Exhibition
Authors: Frank Suzanne
Published: June 2012

Harlem, the site where mostly black residents live by choice and historical circumstance, was designated for renewal in an exhibition hosted by the Museum of Modern Art (1967). Although a revisionist urban renewal was planned by four university teams, there was a problem of what would be the best for Harlemites. Cornell, Princeton, Columbia, and Massachusetts Institute of Technology each set forth unique ideological schemes, but only the latter two were visibly and socially feasible for the community. Analyzing these plans and discussing Harlem’s predicament with which the architects were sympathetic, form the crux of the article.
Colonial Present
Authors: Miraftab Faranak
Published: June 2012

This article historicizes the contemporary urban development and governance strategies in Cape Town, South Africa, by focusing on two periods: the British colonial era (mid to turn of the nineteenth century) and the neoliberal postapartheid era (early twenty-first century). It reveals the keen affinity between a contemporary urban strategy known as Improvement Districts for the affluent and the old colonial practice of “location creation” for the native. Discussing the similarities and differences in the material and discursive practices by which urban privilege is produced and maintained in Cape Town across the two eras, the study brings to light the colonial legacies of the neoliberal municipal strategies for governance of urban inequalities. This insight is significant to the citizens' resistance against exclusionary redevelopment projects that claim “innovation” in urban management.