bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Sensorimotor Approach to the Training of Manual Actions in Children With Developmental Coordination Disorder
Authors: Snapp-Childs Winona , Mon-Williams Mark , Bingham Geoffrey P.
Published: October 2012

Developmental coordination disorder affects a relatively large proportion (5%-6%) of the childhood population. Severity of the disorder varies but there is a great need for therapeutic intervention. We propose a method for the training of manual actions in children with developmental coordination disorder. Our solution is achieved by applying haptic virtual reality technology to attack the difficulties that children with developmental coordination disorder evidence. Our results show that children with developmental coordination disorder are able to learn complex motor skills if proper training methods are employed. These findings conflict with reports of impaired motor learning in developmental coordination disorder because of underactivation of cerebellar and parietal networks.
Syndrome of Transient Headache and Neurologic Deficits With Cerebrospinal Fluid Lymphocytosis (HaNDL)
Authors: Gonçalves Daniel , Meireles Joana , Rocha Ruben , Sampaio Mafalda , Leão Miguel
Published: October 2012

The syndrome of transient headache and neurologic deficits associated with cerebrospinal fluid lymphocytosis (HaNDL) is characterized by 1 or more episodes of severe headache, transient neurologic deficits, and lymphocytic pleocytosis in the cerebrospinal fluid. It is a benign and self limited disorder seldom reported in pediatric age. We report the case of a 14-year-old girl who suffered from 2 episodes of headache with transient focal neurologic deficits and pleocytosis consistent with the syndrome of HaNDL. This entity should be taken into account as a differential diagnosis in otherwise healthy children presenting with recurrent headache and acute neurologic deficits. Repeated use of invasive and expensive laboratory and imaging investigations can be avoided when the diagnosis of the syndrome of HaNDL is correctly established.
Prospective Study of 2 Bed Alarms for Detection of Nocturnal Seizures
Authors: Fulton Stephen , Poppel Kate Van , McGregor Amy , Ellis Michelle , Patters Andrea , Wheless James
Published: October 2012

For parents of children with epilepsy, seizures occurring in sleep are a major concern. Risk factors for sudden unexplained death in epilepsy patients include being in bed and generalized tonic-clonic seizures. A device for detecting nocturnal seizure activity would be valuable. Children with various seizure types undergoing evaluation had standard video electroencephalography (EEG), cardiopulmonary and nursing monitoring, and 1 of 2 models (ST-2 and MP5) of a Medpage bed alarm. The video EEG record was reviewed to detect any seizures missed by the bed alarms or caregivers. The ability of the bed alarms to detect motor seizures in general and specific seizure types was tested. In 15 patients, 69 seizures were recorded by video EEG. The ST-2 did not detect any nocturnal seizures. The MP5 alarm detected 1 of 15 in sleeping patients: a generalized tonic-clonic seizure. The Medpage seizure alarms do not appear to adequately detect nocturnal seizures.
Manufacturing and thermal and mechanical properties of advanced 3-aminophenoxyphthalonitrile/bisphthalonitrile composite laminates
Authors: Chen Zhiran , Guo Heng , Yang Jian , Zhao Rui , Liu Xiaobo
Published: October 2012

The 3-aminophenoxyphthalonitrile (3-APN) was used as a comonomer and coreactive curing agent to modify the 2,2-bis[4-(3,4)-dicyanophenoxyphenyl] (BAPh) resin by blending technology. First, the 3-APN/BAPh matrices were characterized using differential scanning calorimetry, dynamic rheological analysis and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The curing and rheological behaviors of the blends and prepolymers of 3-APN/BAPh matrix were studied. The results revealed that the blends and prepolymers exhibited the polymerization reaction controlled by the 3-APN content and had large processing window with low melt viscosity. The TGA data revealed that the 3-APN/BAPh matrix copolymers showed excellent thermal and thermal-oxidative stabilities. Moreover, the continuous glass fiber (GF)-reinforced 3-APN/BAPh (GF/3-APN/BAPh) composite laminates were manufactured and the mechanical and thermal properties were studied. The GF/3-APN/BAPh composite laminates exhibited flexural strength (500–766 MPa) and flexural modulus (21–27 GPa) by maintaining high thermal performances. In addition, scanning electron microscopy was utilized to investigate the fracture surfaces of the GF/3-APN/BAPh composite laminates, which had the effective interfacial interaction between the GFs and the matrix. Herein, the 3-APN/BAPh matrix can be a good candidate matrix for high-performance polymeric materials and the advanced laminate can be used in a high-temperature environment.
Achievement of a uniform contact pressure in a shaft–hub press-fit
Authors: Strozzi A , Baldini A , Giacopini M , Bertocchi E , Bertocchi L
Published: October 2012

In this article, the achievement of a uniform elastic contact pressure in a frictionless, keyless, shaft–hub interference fit obtained by properly shaping the mating profiles is examined. The peculiarity of the hub mechanical response according to which, under the effect of a uniform pressure applied to the hub bore, the bore axial profile moves radially without any distortion, is exploited to simplify the determination of the mating profiles that return a uniform pressure. In particular, the hub radial deflection may be computed with a simple plane model, whereas only the shaft radial deflection requires a more complex analysis in cylindrical coordinates. Explicit approximate expressions are reported for the shapes to be conferred to the mating profiles to achieve a uniform pressure. Selected examples are presented to clarify the proposed design procedure and to preliminarily explore the effect on the pressure profile of simple shape errors.
Influence of turbulence on autoignition in stratified mixtures under compression ignition engine conditions
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Saumyadip , Abraham John
Published: October 2012

The influence of turbulence on the autoignition characteristics of initially stratified mixing layers is studied using numerical simulations and multi-step kinetic mechanisms. The computations are carried out at a high initial pressure and a high initial temperature representative of conditions in compression ignition engines. n-Heptane is used as the surrogate fuel. It is shown that the influence of turbulence is to reduce the time for the first occurrence of ignition in the mixing layer in all cases. The initial gradient is modified by the turbulence, resulting in higher and lower gradients than the initial value. The lower gradients favor ignition, as pointed out in the literature. During a two-stage ignition process, the influence is primarily reflected in the second stage of ignition. The separate influences of the velocity scale and the length scale on autoignition are explored. An increase in the velocity and/or a decrease in the length scale increase(s) the spread of gradients in the domain and accelerate(s) ignition.
Numerical simulation of an airfoil electrothermal anti-icing system
Authors: Bu Xueqin , Lin Guiping , Yu Jia , Yang Shenghua , Song Xin
Published: October 2012

The mathematical models and a numerical code for numerical simulation of a thermal anti-icing system are presented in this article. Mass conservation is applied to the runback water flow. An energy balance is imposed on the airfoil skin including the water flow. The heat transfer coefficient distributions are obtained using the boundary layer integral method. The external flowfield and the local water collection efficiency data are predicted using an Eulerian method, based on a computation fluid dynamic code and its user-defined functions. Given the input of the electrical power density distribution, the numerical code is able to calculate airfoil equilibrium surface temperature, mass flux of runback water, runback ice mass flux, and range if happens. A user interface is developed to integrate the computation fluid dynamic code to achieve a method for the analysis of a thermal anti-icing system. All the numerical results are compared with both experimental data and other numerical results presented in the literature.
Trim requirements and impact on wing design for the high-speed passenger transport concept SpaceLiner
Authors: Dietlein Ingrid , Schwanekamp Tobias , Kopp Alexander
Published: October 2012

An interdisciplinary study on the SpaceLiner orbiter is conducted focusing on the aspect of trimming and its impact on aerodynamical performance and structural design of the wing. Part of this study is to update the previously optimized aerodynamic shape taking into account the aspect of trim capability while maximizing the aerodynamic efficiency. This highly automated process results in a new preliminary definition of the aerodynamic shape of the SpaceLiner orbiter. A dimensioning abort case trajectory is defined following the recent update of the nominal return trajectory. Both serve as a starting point to the investigation of the trim requirement. The study confirms that the updated aerodynamic shape requires only small flap deflection angles for trimming, even under degraded conditions, and thus limits the impact on the lift-to-drag ratio. A structural analysis on the wing attests the importance of limiting the dimensioning flap deflection angles as the forces exercised by the flaps on the hinges can be considerable.
Does the brain “initiate” freely willed processes? A philosophy of science critique of Libet-type experiments and their interpretation
Authors: Radder Hans , Meynen Gerben
Published: October 2012

In the extensive, recent debates on free will, the pioneering experiments by Benjamin Libet continue to play a significant role. It is often claimed that these experiments demonstrate the illusory nature of freely willed actions. In this article, we provide a detailed analysis and evaluation of Libet’s experiments from a philosophy of science perspective. Our analysis focuses on Libet’s central notion of the “initiation” of freely willed processes by the brain. We examine four interpretations of the notion of initiation: in terms of a cause, a necessary condition, a correlation, and a regular succession. We argue that none of these four interpretations can be supported by the design and results of Libet’s experiments. In addition, we analyze two recent Libet-type experiments. Our general conclusion is that neither Libet’s original experiments nor later Libet-type experiments can justify the claim that allegedly freely willed processes are in fact initiated by the brain.
Media attention to GM food cases: An innovation perspective
Authors: Flipse Steven M. , Osseweijer Patricia
Published: October 2012

Media attention to genetically modified (GM) foods has been described as negative, especially in Europe. At the turn of the century appreciation of GM foods was at an all-time low in Europe. Food manufacturers are still careful in the use, development and communication of GM based food products, and their caution influences innovation processes. In this study we explore the link between media attention and innovation practice. Media attention to three specific high-profile GM food cases is described and linked to innovation practice. We elucidate the order of events in these cases and show that publics could only to a limited extent have formed an opinion on GM based food products based on scientifically valid data through written English media. Innovators in food biotechnology may benefit from this knowledge for future product development and marketing, and we suggest that innovation may benefit from early stakeholder involvement and communication activities.
Predicting scientists’ participation in public life
Authors: Besley John C. , Oh Sang Hwa , Nisbet Matthew
Published: October 2012

This research provides secondary data analysis of two large-scale scientist surveys. These include a 2009 survey of American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) members and a 2006 survey of university scientists by the United Kingdom’s Royal Society. Multivariate models are applied to better understand the motivations, beliefs, and conditions that promote scientists’ involvement in communication with the public and the news media. In terms of demographics, scientists who have reached mid-career status are more likely than their peers to engage in outreach, though even after controlling for career stage, chemists are less likely than other scientists to do so. In terms of perceptions and motivations, a deficit model view that a lack of public knowledge is harmful, a personal commitment to the public good, and feelings of personal efficacy and professional obligation are among the strongest predictors of seeing outreach as important and in participating in engagement activities.
Robust piezoelectric composites for energy harvesting in high-strain environments
Authors: van den Ende Daan A , Groen Wilhelm A , van der Zwaag Sybrand
Published: October 2012

High-strain environments, such as are found in automobile tires, provide deformation energy that can be harvested using piezoelectric materials, for instance, for powering electronics such as wireless sensors. Despite numerous efforts, none of the present devices easily satisfy the stringent operating and lifetime requirements for use inside a car tire, such as mechanical (accelerations of up to 3000 m/s2) and thermal requirements (temperatures of −40°C to 120°C), often leading to complex and costly solutions. Polymer–piezoelectric ceramic composite properties can be designed to fulfill the operating requirements. Furthermore, these materials are suitable for low-cost mass production and easy integration in the tire itself. Composite materials with increased output can be manufactured using the dielectrophoretic processing technique, which causes the alignment of the piezoelectric particles inside the polymer matrix, to obtain materials with adequate flexibility combined with a high energy density. In this study, we present the design, synthesis, and integration of novel composite material foils in automobile tires. The advantage of these dielectrophoretically structured composite materials is demonstrated and their output is compared to conventional piezoelectric composites. Furthermore, the charge signal output of a number of foil-based prototypes tested using an automobile tire test rig is evaluated and discussed with respect to energy harvesting performance.
Cobalt–nickel microcantilevers for biosensing
Authors: Ergeneman Olgaç , Suter Marcel , Chatzipirpiridis George , Sivaraman Kartik M , Eberle Patric , Pané Salvador , Pellicer Eva , Sort Jordi , Nelson Bradley J
Published: October 2012

We present microcantilevers that utilize magnetic actuation for use as mass sensors for bioapplications. The microcantilevers are made of electroplated cobalt–nickel that has low coercivity and high saturation magnetization. The microcantilevers are actuated by applying magnetic fields, and the deflection is measured using a laser Doppler vibrometer. The microfabrication of the microcantilevers is based on two lithography steps, an electroplating step and a sacrificial layer etching step. The magnetic actuation and optical readout using the fabricated cobalt–nickel microcantilever were successfully demonstrated in air under atmospheric pressure and in deionized water. A feedback circuit is used to enhance the quality factor of the microcantilever. The quality factor increased from approximately 550 to 1600 in air and from 7.3 to 10.6 in deionized water. The microcantilevers can be readily functionalized with selective binding molecules and used as a biomass sensor.
In situ integrity assessment of a smart structure based on the local material damping
Authors: Kostka Pawel , Holeczek Klaudiusz , Filippatos Angelos , Langkamp Albert , Hufenbach Werner
Published: October 2012

Integration of functional elements into fibre-reinforced host structures provides the possibility for in situ monitoring of the structural integrity of critical components. In this study, a vibration-based monitoring function has been developed that allows the structural integrity identification of critical components. For this purpose, signal analysis algorithms were developed to enable the estimation of damage-dependent modal damping. The analysed smart structure was a carbon fibre–reinforced epoxy composite plate with an integrated actuating/sensing system. The local material damping is a parameter especially sensitive to different failure modes of composites. In order to characterise the changes of this parameter resulting from impact events, dynamical mechanical analysis on intact and damaged specimens made of the composite material was conducted. Based on the dynamical mechanical analysis results, a finite element model of the structure was developed. Then, modal damping ratios for different sizes and locations of damaged regions were numerically determined, and a relation between modal damping and damage-dependent local damping was identified. The deterministic decision trees describing the reverse relationship between online-measured modal damping and damage condition were determined. That was accomplished through the application of information entropy-based data-mining algorithms to the numerically generated learning dataset obtained using the developed finite element model.
Seeking African Music in a National Archive
Authors: Blackwood Jessica , Roberts J. Christopher , Campbell Patricia Shehan
Published: October 2012

In our increasingly diverse society, music teachers are often “on the hunt” for musical material representing a wide range of cultural groups. For those who wish to sonically venture to the African continent, the Smithsonian Folkways record label provides an opportunity to explore musics from the vast area. In this article, we first chronicle the genesis of the Folkways record label, then describe the current website, the ability to download music, and the availability of African music within the site. Next, three recordings from Africa are examined in more detail, with attention paid to specific musical selections and cultural context within each recording.
Venous Thromboembolism in Cirrhosis
Authors: Yang Zhineng J. , Costa Karen A. , Novelli Enrico M. , Smith Roy E.
Published: October 2012

The cirrhosis population represents a unique subset of patients who are at risk for both bleeding and developing venous thromboembolic events (VTEs). It has been commonly misunderstood that these patients are naturally protected from thrombosis by deficiencies in coagulation factors. As a result, the cirrhosis population is often falsely perceived to be “autoanticoagulated.” However, the concept of “autoanticoagulation” conferring protection from thrombosis is a misnomer. While patients with cirrhosis may have a bleeding predisposition, not uncommonly they also experience thrombotic events. The concern for this increased bleeding risk often makes anticoagulation a difficult choice. Prophylactic and therapeutic management of VTE in patients with cirrhosis is a difficult clinical problem with the lack of clear established guidelines. The elucidation of laboratory and/or clinical predictors of VTE will be useful in this setting. This review serves to examine VTE and the use of anticoagulation in the cirrhosis population.
Professionalism in Public Relations Pedagogy
Authors: Chung Wonjun , Choi Jinbong
Published: October 2012

Based on a concept of professionalism, this study analyzed and compared current public relations curricula of higher education among the United States, the United Kingdom, and South Korea. In terms of three educational orientations, results indicated that public relations education in the United States is the most balanced among theoretical, skill-based, and practical content; U.K. schools offer more theoretical courses, and South Korean schools are significantly more concerned with skill-based and practical courses.
Latino Immigration and Representation in Local Politics
Authors: Rocha Rene R. , Matsubayashi Tetsuya
Published: October 2012

Theories of racial politics argue that areas with large minority population are characterized by greater levels of policy equity, yet empirical research often fails to find evidence for this prediction. In this article, we develop and test an alternative view of the relationship between minority group size and the representation of minority interests in government using the case of Latino representation in local politics. We argue that Latino group size results in both favorable and unfavorable policy outcomes for Latino communities. The nature of the Latino population, specifically the extent to which it is composed primarily of citizens or noncitizens, explains when each outcome will occur. Latinos achieve more favorable policy outcomes for their interests when the size of the Latino citizen population increases but less favorable outcomes when the number of Latino noncitizens increases. The negative effect of noncitizen group size is mediated by the presence of Latino citizens and representatives. Our hypotheses are tested using data from a national sample of several hundred local school districts and educational policy outcomes.
A comparison of thermographic imaging, physical examination and modified questionnaire as an instrument to assess painful conditions in cats
Authors: Vainionpää Mari H , Raekallio Marja R , Junnila Jouni JT , Hielm-Björkman Anna K , Snellman Marjatta PM , Vainio Outi M
Published: October 2012

Pain recognition in cats is difficult and requires a multidisciplinary approach for diagnosis. A total of 103 client-owned cats were enrolled in this prospective, blinded clinical trial. Cats were invited to the clinic, or presented for annual rechecks/vaccinations, or gastrointestinal, dental or locomotor problems. The cats were of different breeds; both shorthaired and longhaired cats were included. Those cats that tolerated it were palpated and all cats were examined with the non-invasive method of thermographic imaging. Owners filled out a questionnaire about their cat’s behaviour and estimated whether the cat was in any pain. The agreement between a questionnaire and thermographic imaging or palpation was low. Also, the agreement between the owner’s estimation of pain and thermographic imaging or palpation was low. The agreement between palpation and thermographic imaging was moderate, suggesting that thermographic imaging is a potential tool in clinical practice for detecting and screening cats that are, potentially, in pain.
Serum thymidine kinase activity in clinically healthy and diseased cats: a potential biomarker for lymphoma
Authors: Taylor Samantha S , Dodkin Steve , Papasouliotis Kostas , Evans Helen , Graham Peter A , Belshaw Zoe , Westberg Sara , von Euler Henrik P
Published: October 2012

The thymidine kinases are enzymes that convert deoxythymidine to deoxythymidine monophosphate and have a function in DNA synthesis. Rapidly proliferating cells will have higher levels of thymidine kinase. Serum thymidine kinase activity (sTK) is a useful tumour marker in humans and dogs, with utility as a prognostic indicator in lymphoma. In the current study serum samples were collected from 49 clinically healthy cats, 33 with lymphoma, 55 with inflammatory disease and 34 with non-haematopoietic neoplasia (NHPN). sTK was measured using a radioenzyme assay and a reference interval (1.96 × SD) was established from the clinically healthy cats (<5.5 U/l). Mean sTK activity for healthy cats was 2.2 U/l (range 0.8–8.4, ± SD 1.7). Mean sTK activity for cats with lymphoma was 17.5 U/l (range 1.0–100.0 SD ± 27.4). Mean sTK activity for cats with NHPN was 4.2 U/l (range 1.0–45.0, SD ± 8.6). Mean sTK activity for the inflammatory group was 3.4 U/l (range 1.0–19.6, SD 3.9). Cats with lymphoma had significantly higher sTK activity than healthy cats or cats with inflammatory disease ( P <0.0001) and cats with NHPN ( P <0.0002). sTK activity is a potentially useful biomarker for feline lymphoma and further study is required to assess its utility as a prognostic indicator.
Sustained-release fampridine and the role of ion channel dysfunction in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Krishnan Arun V , Kiernan Matthew C
Published: October 2012

Ion channel dysfunction is an important mechanism that contributes to functional disability and axonal degeneration in multiple sclerosis (MS). Recent studies have revealed that there are complex rearrangements of voltage-gated Na+ channels that occur with acute brain inflammation in MS, with up-regulation of primitive Na+ channel isoforms such as Nav 1.2 during acute inflammation. While these changes may help support neural conduction, increased expression of ‘persistent’ Na+ conductances and altered function of the Na+/K+ pump may contribute to axonal degeneration in MS. Increased expression of K+ channels due to demyelination has also been considered as a contributing factor to conduction failure in MS. Recent phase II and phase III clinical trials have demonstrated improvements in walking speed in patients receiving fampridine SR, a K+ channel blocker. This medication appears to be well-tolerated with a low risk of serious adverse events and provides benefits in both relapsing and progressive forms of MS.
Performing and interpreting identity through Facebook imagery
Authors: Farquhar Lee
Published: October 2012

This one-year cyber-ethnography examines identity presentations and interpretations of 346 Facebook users. The social–psychological theoretical framework used drew specifically from symbolic interaction, Goffman’s performance of self, and schema theory. Generally, Facebookers sought social acceptance with their presentations. Primary findings indicate that the Facebookers present over-simplified imagery to reduce ambiguity and align with specific social groups. This study asked Facebookers to respond to strangers’ Facebook profiles, and the responses showed that due to the glut of identity-related information on the site, interpretations are heavily reliant on schemas. Online interview participants indicated several basic categories of identity performance that were used to assess others. Furthermore, online interview participants felt confident giving detailed descriptions of strangers’ personalities based on only a few minutes of viewing their profiles.
Implicating public companies in the equal pay debate
Authors: Russell Roseanne
Published: October 2012

The pay gap between men and women remains high and most acute in the private sector, in which large public companies dominate. Following the recent fortieth anniversary of the enactment of the UK’s Equal Pay Act, there have been renewed efforts to solve the pay gap. Some have highlighted the ‘business case’ for equal pay. This article makes the case for equal pay to be treated as a corporate concern but argues that reforms appealing to the ‘business case’ are unlikely to lead to sincere progress. It analyses the UK’s corporate foundation of ‘enlightened shareholder value’ captured in section 172 of the Companies Act 2006, and key aspects of the internal governance structures of UK public companies. The central argument introduced is that contradictions between the causes of the pay gap and corporate aims and structures undermine the genuine pursuit of pay equality. The article concludes by arguing that a more secure platform for reform may be found by exploiting the flaws in the shareholder value paradigm and arguing for a revised model based on principles of feminist legal theory, rather than appealing to the business case for equal pay.
Illegal contracts and discrimination
Authors: Monaghan Chris
Published: October 2012

The Court of Appeal in Hounga v Allen & Anor [2012] EWCA Civ 609 had to decide whether someone working illegally in the United Kingdom, was entitled to bring a claim for dismissal discrimination under the now repealed Race Relations Act 1976. The Court of Appeal, unlike the Employment Tribunal and the Employment Appeal Tribunal, which had accepted Ms Hounga's claim, refused to allow her to bring the claim because she was working under an illegal contract of employment. The decision was on the grounds of public policy. The Court of Appeal was anxious to avoid being seen as condoning her illegality and would not allow her to enforce the illegal contract of employment. Consequentially, Ms Hounga’s employers were not liable for discriminating against her. Taken to an extreme, the effect of the decision in Hounga v Allen & Anor would appear to provide a defence to employers who employ illegal immigrants and then discriminate against them.
An invitation to profile
Authors: Brown Donathan L.
Published: October 2012

The recent Supreme Court decision regarding the constitutionality of Arizona’s Senate Bill 1070 was declared a “victory” by both proponents and dissenters. While the Supreme Court declared three of the laws four provisions unconstitutional, both President Barack Obama and Arizona Governor Jan Brewer framed the outcome in a positive light. Despite three of the four provisions dismantled, the sole surviving provision allows law enforcement to question the immigration status of anyone who violates a non-immigration offense. Although the Supreme Court placed this provision within the parameters of a “wait and see” scenario, whereby, if there are problems/violations in the laws application/implementation, the Court will revisit this provision, I argue that such a provision, despite its “wait and see” clause, invites racial profiling. To illustrate this point, this article will perform a rhetorical analysis of the Court’s majority opinion, before concluding with final thoughts.
Pairing learners in pair work activity
Authors: Storch Neomy , Aldosari Ali
Published: October 2012

Although pair work is advocated by major theories of second language (L2) learning and research findings suggest that pair work facilitates L2 learning, what is unclear is how to best pair students in L2 classes of mixed L2 proficiency. This study investigated the nature of pair work in an English as a Foreign Language (EFL) class in a college in Saudi Arabia. The L2 proficiency of the learners in such classes is often quite heterogeneous. Thirty learners allocated into similar (high–high and low–low) and mixed–L2 proficiency pairs (five pairs in each proficiency pairing) completed a short composition. The audio recorded and transcribed pair talk was analysed for the learners’ overt focus on language use and amount of L2 used. In our analysis we took into consideration the effect of proficiency pairing as well as the dyadic relationship the learners formed. Our findings suggest that decisions regarding how to best pair students in heterogeneous classes depend on the aim of the activity, and that the dyadic relationship may be of greater significance than proficiency pairing.
Are suicide attempts by young Latinas a cultural idiom of distress?
Authors: Zayas Luis H. , Gulbas Lauren E.
Published: October 2012

The high rates of suicide attempts among adolescent Hispanic females in the United States have been well established by epidemiological and clinical studies. In this paper, we review the research history of Latina suicide attempts and their characteristics. Then we apply multi-faceted conceptual and empirical criteria found in the anthropological and psychiatric literature about cultural idioms of distress to the suicide attempts of young Latinas. We contrast the suicide-attempt phenomenon to the well-known ataque de nervios and propose that the phenomenon may reflect a developmental or cultural variant of the ataque. The attempt-as-idiom proposition is intended to invite discussion that can deepen our understanding of the cultural roots of the suicide attempts and their possible designation as cultural idiom. Establishing the meaning of suicide attempts within a cultural perspective can assist psychological and psychiatric research and clinical interventions.
Fuzzy logic-based model for prediction of building wall humidity level
Authors: Hossain A. , Nazir M. , Ramesh S. , Rahman A. , Wong K. H.
Published: October 2012

This paper presents the viability of using fuzzy logic expert system for the prediction of building wall’s relative humidity. In comparison with traditional logic model, fuzzy logic is more efficient in linking the multiple units to a single output and is invaluable supplements to classical hard computing techniques. The purpose of this work was to investigate the relationship between wall material composition and climate condition, as well as to evaluate the viability of using fuzzy logic expert system in predicting the building wall’s humidity level. The experimental data was taken at different time of the day for different material composition. A fuzzy logic expert system model based on Mamdani approach was subsequently developed to predict the building wall’s humidity level. Verification of the developed fuzzy logic model was carried out through various numerical error criteria. The study revealed that the developed fuzzy system was able to predict the humidity level in the wall material within high accuracy with relative error of less than the acceptable limits of 10% and a goodness of fit very close to unity.
Home and away: Family matters in the lives of young transnational couples
Authors: McLeod Danae , Burrows Roger
Published: October 2012

The institutional mechanisms by which young adults come to experience temporary periods of global mobility are varied, but what most have in common is a presupposition that those gaining entry into another country will return ‘home’ within a specific period. This article is concerned to better understand how young adults who are engaged in such forms of global travel manage the significant personal emotional intimate attachments that many of them make in the places that they visit when a decision has to be made about returning. Here we offer an empirical examination of what happens when an envisaged return ‘home’ is stymied by the formation of a significant intimate relationship with someone from another country. In particular we focus on the role that ‘family matters’ play in decision-making processes.
Comparison between the effect of glibenclamide and captopril on experimentally induced diabetic nephropathy in rats
Authors: Akbar Daad H , Hagras Magda M , Amin Hanan A , Khorshid Omayma A
Published: October 2012

Hypothesis:

This study aimed to elucidate the role of glibenclamide in the prevention of diabetic nephropathy and to compare it with a reference drug captopril in rats.

Materials and methods:

There were two main groups of rats. Control group (I) was subdivided into four subgroups which received distilled water, vehicle of streptozotocin, glibenclamide or captopril. The streptozotocin-diabetic Group (II) was subdivided into three subgroups: untreated, glibenclamide or captopril treated. Measurement of arterial blood pressure, serum glucose and creatinine levels, 24 h urinary protein and albumin/creatinine ratio, kidney weight and its histological examination were done after 1, 2, 4, 8, 12 and 16 weeks of treatment.

Results:

In treated diabetic rats captopril reduced blood pressure significantly, while no significant change in the mean arterial blood pressure or blood glucose level was recorded with glibenclamide treatment. Glibenclamide and captopril-treated diabetic rats showed significant decrease in serum creatinine level, urine volume, urinary protein excretion, albumin:creatinine ratio and kidney:body weight ratio compared with the diabetic non-treated group. Histological examination of diabetic kidneys treated with either glibenclamide or captopril showed reduced glomerular hypertrophy, glomerulosclerosis, tubular degeneration and interstitial fibrosis compared with untreated diabetic rats.

Conclusion:

Glibenclamide attenuated some biochemical and histological changes produced by diabetic nephropathy, despite persistent hyperglycemia and hypertension.
Circulating and local renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system express differently in atrial fibrillation patients with different types of mitral valvular disease
Authors: Yongjun Qian , Ying Liu , Hong Tang , Wenxia Zhou , Lu Jiang , Yongbo Li , Ning Li , Mei Li , Xijun Xiao
Published: October 2012

Mitral valvular disease is strongly related to atrial fibrillation (AF), but the different types of mitral valvular disease have a different prevalence of AF. In this study we explored the expressions of the circulating and local renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) in order to determine the relationship between circulating and local RAAS expressions and its effects on AF in different types of mitral valvular disease patients. Our study group consisted of 24 mitral valvular disease patients scheduled for mitral valve replacement surgery. Peripheral blood samples and left atrial appendage tissue samples were obtained from all patients. Radioimmunoassay was performed to assess the expression levels of circulating and local renin, angiotensin II and aldosterone. In mitral valvular diseases, linear correlation analyses were done for local and circulating renin, angiotensin II and aldosterone; the p values were 0.979, 0.518 and 0.125, respectively. Expression levels of local angiotensin II, circulating angiotensin II and local aldosterone were significantly increased in the AF group compared with sinus rhythm; the p values were 0.023, 0.042 and 0.035, respectively. In mitral stenosis patients, AF was primarily associated with local angiotensin II ( p=0.010), as well as being associated with circulating angiotensin II ( p=0.038). In mitral regurgitation patients, AF was only significantly associated with local angiotensin II ( p=0.038). Circulating and local RAAS expressions are associated with AF in mitral valvular disease patients. The levels of circulating and local RAAS expressions were different in AF patients with different types of mitral valvular diseases. The differentiation of circulating and local RAAS expression levels in AF patients between different types of mitral valvular disease can potentially improve the specific pharmacological interventions outcomes for these patients.
Association between angiotensin-converting enzyme insertion/deletion gene polymorphism and end-stage renal disease susceptibility
Authors: Zhou Tian-Biao , Yin Sheng-Sheng , Qin Yuan-Han
Published: October 2012

Background and objective:

The association between angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) insertion/deletion (I/D) gene polymorphism and end-stage renal disease (ESRD) risk is still controversial. A meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the association between ACE I/D gene polymorphism and ESRD susceptibility.

Method:

A predefined literature search and selection of eligible relevant studies were performed to collect data from electronic databases.

Results:

Thirty-four articles were identified for the analysis of an association between ACE I/D gene polymorphism and ESRD risk. Both D allele and DD genotype were associated with ESRD susceptibility in overall populations (D: OR = 1.20, 95% CI: 1.06–1.36, p = 0.003, DD: OR = 1.47, 95% CI: 1.20–1.78, p = 0.0001) and in East Asians (D: OR = 1.34, 95% CI: 1.06–1.69, p = 0.01, DD: OR = 2.01, 95% CI: 1.29–3.12, p = 0.002). Only the DD genotype had a positive association with ESRD susceptibility in Caucasians (OR = 1.20, 95% CI: 1.01–1.43, p = 0.03). The result from sensitivity analysis in overall populations or Caucasians was similar to those in non-sensitivity analysis, but not among East Asians.

Conclusions:

The results of our study support the idea that D allele or DD genotype was associated with increased risk of ESRD susceptibility in the overall populations, and DD genotype was associated with ESRD susceptibility in Caucasians.
Feeling space dynamically: variable interpersonal meanings in high-rise apartment complexes
Authors: Mcmurtrie Robert James
Published: October 2012

An all-embracing experience of a three-dimensional spatial text requires movement through various articulated spaces. Part of this experience is the emotional effect that the volume of the spaces has on its users. Since contiguous spaces may be of different dimensions, there is the potential for users moving through those spaces to experience fluctuations in feelings. This article develops Stenglin’s notion of Binding, a semiotic analytical tool which helps to understand the relationship between affect and space, by modeling, in a dynamic way, how spatial texts unfolds logogenetically as people move through, and are affected by, them. This article suggests a method of gathering dynamic data for analysis. Using a filmic representation of the experience of movement through, interaction with, and perception of, the foyers of two high-rise apartment complexes in Sydney, Australia, the article formalizes the fluctuations in Binding into diagrammatic representations referred to as Binding Contours, which explicitly demonstrate that space is felt dynamically.
A retrospective view of psychodynamic treatment: Perspectives of recovered bulimia nervosa patients
Authors: Toto-Moriarty Teresa
Published: October 2012

Detailed case studies from the clinical literature suggest the efficacy of psychodynamic psychotherapy for bulimia, yet few empirical studies examine the aspects of psychodynamic intervention identified as helpful to the recovered patient. In-depth interviews were conducted with fourteen recovered female bulimic patients, ranging in age from 22–46, who had been in individual psychodynamically-oriented treatment for at least two years and had terminated this treatment no less than six months ago. The findings included five major thematic categories that recovered patients identified as beneficial to recovery: 1) engagement and building the therapeutic alliance; 2) decoding the adaptive and psychological meaning of the symptom; 3) the nature of the therapy relationship; 4) signs of progress as the therapy work deepened; 5) adjunctive treatment approaches. These findings underscore the relational field in psychotherapy and suggest that recovered bulimia patients may perceive psychodynamic treatment as effective when integrating adjunctive and behavioral treatment interventions, such as medication, journaling, and keeping food diaries.
The role of a cap-and-trade market in reducing NOx and SOx emissions: Prospects and benefits for ships within the Northern European ECA
Authors: Nikopoulou Zoi , Cullinane Kevin , Jensen Arne
Published: October 2012

This article presents a financial evaluation of alternative approaches to the abatement of NO x and SO x emissions from ships operating within the emission control area (ECA) of Northern Europe. The objective of this article is to assess the financial viability of a range of alternative technologies and fuel types, by accounting for revenue that might be generated from emissions trading within a cap-and-trade market for NO x and SO x emissions. Using a sample of real ships that operate within the ECA, NO x and SO x emissions for each alternative are estimated, and the revenue generated within a cap-and-trade system is calculated under a given set of assumptions. The results suggest that distillates are not an economic solution to meeting regulatory requirements. Conservative estimates of revenue generated within any prospective cap-and-trade system suggest that seawater scrubbers and Humid Air Motor (HAM) and Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems would all constitute financially attractive abatement options, while the use of liquefied natural gas (LNG) is the most financially attractive alternative. A cap-and-trade system is found to be highly efficacious in providing a relatively inexpensive source of finance for investments in improved environmental performance, as well as incentivizing such improvements, thereby removing any requirement for public sector support.
The Seventy-two and their Many Grandchildren: A Review of Septuagint Studies from 1997 Onward
Authors: De Troyer Kristin
Published: October 2012

In this article, a summary will be offered of tools published in the field of Septuagint studies, such as editions, concordances, lexica, bibliographies, and translations. Then we will cover the origins of the Old Greek translations, as well as the forms of Greek used in the Septuagint. This article will also treat the debate about whether variants go back to a different Hebrew Vorlage, or to the interpretation of a translator. Contributions to the field of the early Jewish Greek revisions will also be summarized. Finally, in this survey of Septuagint studies, special attention will be given to the contents of Introductions to the Septuagint, and scholarly Proceedings and Festschriften on the Septuagint.
Recent Trends in Gospel of Thomas Research (1989–2011). Part II: Genre, Theology and Relationship to the Gospel of John
Authors: Perrin Nicholas , Skinner Christopher W.
Published: October 2012

This article, the second of a two-part series, examines scholarly research on the Gospel of Thomas between 1989 and 2011. The previous article ( CBR 5.2 [2007]: 183-206) reviewed research on Thomas’s place in discussions of the historical Jesus and the Synoptic Gospels between 1991 and 2006. The current study focuses on three concerns: (1) scholarly opinions of Thomas’s genre, (2) the notoriously difficult problem of identifying Thomas’s theological outlook, and (3) the relationship between the Gospel of Thomas and the Fourth Gospel.
Evaluating the Effectiveness of a Lay Health Promoter-Led, Community-Based Participatory Pesticide Safety Intervention With Farmworker Families
Authors: Quandt Sara A. , Grzywacz Joseph G. , Talton Jennifer W. , Trejo Grisel , Tapia Janeth , D’Agostino Ralph B. , Mirabelli Maria C. , Arcury Thomas A.
Published: October 2012

Pesticide safety training is mandated for migrant and seasonal farmworkers. However, none is required for family members, who implement home sanitation to protect against pesticide exposure and need to control pests in substandard housing. Controlled studies have demonstrated the efficacy of pesticide education programs for farmworker families, but no carefully evaluated demonstration projects have shown effectiveness in public health settings. This project evaluates a lay health promoter program to improve pesticide-related knowledge and practices. Promotoras from six agencies recruited families with children to deliver a six-lesson, in-home, culturally and educationally appropriate curriculum. Independently conducted pre- and posttests evaluated changes in knowledge and practices. Adults in 610 families completed the study. Most were from Mexico, with low levels of formal education. Significant improvements in knowledge were observed for all six lessons. Significant improvements were observed in practices related to para-occupational exposure and residential pest control. Lay health promoters with limited training and supervision can have significant impacts on families’ knowledge and practices. They represent a workforce increasingly recognized as a force for reducing health disparities by providing culturally appropriate health education and other services. This study adds to the literature by demonstrating their effectiveness in a public health setting with rigorous evaluation.